bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Queues with resetting: a perspective
Authors: Roy Reshmi , Biswas Arup , Pal Arnab
Published: April 2024

Performance modeling is a key issue in queuing theory and operation research. It is well-known that the length of a queue that awaits service or the time spent by a job in a queue depends not only on the service rate, but also crucially on the fluctuations in service time. The larger the fluctuations, the longer the delay becomes and hence, this is a major hindrance for the queue to operate efficiently. Various strategies have been adapted to prevent this drawback. In this perspective, we investigate the effects of one such novel strategy namely resetting or restart, an emerging concept in statistical physics and stochastic complex process, that was recently introduced to mitigate fluctuations-induced delays in queues. In particular, we show that a service resetting mechanism accompanied with an overhead time can remarkably shorten the average queue lengths and waiting times. We examine various resetting strategies and further shed light on the intricate role of the overhead times to the queuing performance. Our analysis opens up future avenues in operation research where resetting-based strategies can be universally promising.
Highly tunable electronic properties in γ-XSe (X = Ge and Sn) bilayer with strain and electric field
Authors: Wu Qingyun , Ang Lay Kee
Published: April 2024

The recent experimental synthesis of the monolayer γ-GeSe, characterized by its unique Mexican-hat band dispersion, has attracted considerable research interest. However, the exploration of band gap engineering in bilayer γ-GeSe and γ-SnSe through the application of strain and electric fields remains under-investigated. In this study, we demonstrate that both strain and electric fields are effective methods for band gap engineering in bilayer γ-GeSe and γ-SnSe. We have discovered that strain can not only tune the band gap but also induce a transition from an indirect to a direct band gap. Furthermore, it is observed that the band gap of bilayer γ-GeSe and γ-SnSe can be modulated by an electric field, potentially leading to a transition from semiconductor to metal. Our findings suggest that band gap engineering via strain and electric fields is a promising approach for designing nanoelectronic and optoelectronic devices based on bilayer γ-GeSe and γ-SnSe.
Supersingular curves of genus four in characteristic two
Authors: Dragutinović Dušan
Published: April 2024

We describe the intersection of the Torelli locus

j
(

M

4

c
t

)
=

J

4

j(\mathcal {M}_4^{ct}) = \mathcal {J}_4

with Newton and Ekedahl-Oort strata related to the supersingular locus in characteristic 2. We show that the locus of supersingular Jacobians

S

4

∩

J

4

\mathcal {S}_4\cap \mathcal {J}_4

in characteristic 2 is pure of dimension three. One way to obtain that result uses an analysis of the data of smooth genus four curves and principally polarized abelian fourfolds defined over

F

2

\mathbb {F}_2

, and another involves a more careful study of some relevant Ekedahl-Oort loci.
Oscillatory properties of selfadjoint boundary problems of the fourth order
Authors: Vladimirov A. , Shkalikov A.
Published: April 2024

A series of results and methods is presented, which make it possible to trace the relationship between the number of inner zeros of nontrivial solutions of fourth order selfadjoint boundary problems with separated boundary conditions and the negative inertia index.
Complete nonselfadjointness for Schrödinger operators on the semi-axis
Authors: Fischbacher C. , Naboko S. , Wood I.
Published: April 2024

This note is devoted to the study of complete nonselfadjointness for all maximally dissipative extensions of a Schrödinger operator on a half-line with dissipative bounded potential and dissipative boundary condition. It is shown that all maximally dissipative extensions that preserve the differential expression are completely nonselfadjoint. However, it is possible for maximally dissipative extensions to have a one-dimensional reducing subspace on which the operator is selfadjoint. A characterization of these extensions and the corresponding subspaces is given, accompanied by a specific example.
Trends in antibiotic prescriptions for hidradenitis suppurativa from 2015 to 2021
Authors: Horissian Mikael , Samaan Christen , Cohrs Austin , Kirby Joslyn
Published: April 2024

Antibiotic use in hidradenitis suppurativa is decreasing, while the use of adalimumab, glucagon-like peptide agonists and spironolactone increased between 2015 and 2021.
Rescue of cardiac dysfunction during chemotherapy in acute myeloid leukaemia by blocking IL-1α
Authors: Zhou Xingliang , Liu Yiwei , Shen Yi , Chen Lijun , Hu Wenting , Yan Yi , Feng Bei , Xiang Li , Zhu Yifan , Jiang Chenyu , Dai Zihao , Huang Xu , Wu Liwei , Liu Tianyu , Fu Lijun , Duan Caiwen , Shen Shuhong , Li Jun , Zhang Hao
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

Patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) suffer from severe myocardial injury during daunorubicin (DNR)-based chemotherapy and are at high risk of cardiac mortality. The crosstalk between tumour cells and cardiomyocytes might play an important role in chemotherapy-related cardiotoxicity, but this has yet to be demonstrated. This study aimed to identify its underlying mechanism and explore potential therapeutic targets.

Methods

Cardiac tissues were harvested from an AML patient after DNR-based chemotherapy and were subjected to single-nucleus RNA sequencing. Cardiac metabolism and function were evaluated in AML mice after DNR treatment by using positron emission tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and stable-isotope tracing metabolomics. Plasma cytokines were screened in AML mice after DNR treatment. Genetically modified mice and cell lines were used to validate the central role of the identified cytokine and explore its downstream effectors.

Results

In the AML patient, disruption of cardiac metabolic homeostasis was associated with heart dysfunction after DNR-based chemotherapy. In AML mice, cardiac fatty acid utilization was attenuated, resulting in cardiac dysfunction after DNR treatment, but these phenotypes were not observed in similarly treated tumour-free mice. Furthermore, tumour cell-derived interleukin (IL)-1α was identified as a primary factor leading to DNR-induced cardiac dysfunction and administration of an anti-IL-1α neutralizing antibody could improve cardiac functions in AML mice after DNR treatment.

Conclusions

This study revealed that crosstalk between tumour cells and cardiomyocytes during chemotherapy could disturb cardiac energy metabolism and impair heart function. IL-1α neutralizing antibody treatment is a promising strategy for alleviating chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity in AML patients.
Repeat catheter ablation after very late recurrence of atrial fibrillation after pulmonary vein isolation
Authors: Stauffer Niklas , Knecht Sven , Badertscher Patrick , Krisai Philipp , Hennings Elisa , Serban Teodor , Voellmin Gian , Osswald Stefan , Sticherling Christian , Kühne Michael
Published: April 2024

Aims

Atrial fibrillation (AF) recurs in about one-third of patients after catheter ablation (CA), mostly in the first year. Little is known about the electrophysiological findings and the effect of re-ablation in very late AF recurrences (VLR) after more than 1 year. The aim of this study was to determine the characteristics and outcomes of the first repeat CA after VLR of AF after index CA.

Methods and results

We analysed patients from a prospective Swiss registry that underwent a first repeat ablation procedure. Patients were stratified depending on the time to recurrence after index procedure: early recurrence (ER) for recurrences within the first year and late recurrence (LR) if the recurrence was later. The primary endpoint was freedom from AF in the first year after repeat ablation. Out of 1864 patients included in the registry, 426 patients undergoing a repeat ablation were included in the analysis (28% female, age 63 ± 9.8 years, 46% persistent AF). Two hundred and ninety-one patients (68%) were stratified in the ER group and 135 patients (32%) in the LR group. Pulmonary vein reconnections were a common finding in both groups, with 93% in the ER group compared to 86% in the LR group (P = 0.052). In the LR group, 40 of 135 patients (30%) had a recurrence of AF compared to 90 of 291 patients (31%) in the ER group (log-rank P = 0.72).

Conclusion

There was no association between the time to recurrence of AF after initial CA and the characteristics and outcomes of the repeat procedure.
Muscle Mitochondrial Bioenergetic Capacities Are Associated With Multimorbidity Burden in Older Adults: The Study of Muscle, Mobility and Aging
Authors: Mau Theresa , Blackwell Terri L , Cawthon Peggy M , Molina Anthony J A , Coen Paul M , Distefano Giovanna , Kramer Philip A , Ramos Sofhia V , Forman Daniel E , Goodpaster Bret H , Toledo Frederico G S , Duchowny Kate A , Sparks Lauren M , Newman Anne B , Kritchevsky Stephen B , Cummings Steven R
Published: April 2024

Background

The geroscience hypothesis posits that aging biological processes contribute to many age-related deficits, including the accumulation of multiple chronic diseases. Though only one facet of mitochondrial function, declines in muscle mitochondrial bioenergetic capacities may contribute to this increased susceptibility to multimorbidity.

Methods

The Study of Muscle, Mobility and Aging (SOMMA) assessed ex vivo muscle mitochondrial energetics in 764 older adults (mean age = 76.4, 56.5% women, and 85.9% non-Hispanic White) by high-resolution respirometry of permeabilized muscle fibers. We estimated the proportional odds ratio (POR [95% CI]) for the likelihood of greater multimorbidity (4 levels: 0 conditions, N = 332; 1 condition, N = 299; 2 conditions, N = 98; or 3+ conditions, N = 35) from an index of 11 conditions, per SD decrement in muscle mitochondrial energetic parameters. Distribution of conditions allowed for testing the associations of maximal muscle energetics with some individual conditions.

Results

Lower oxidative phosphorylation supported by fatty acids and/or complex I- and II-linked carbohydrates (eg, Max OXPHOSCI+CII) was associated with a greater multimorbidity index score (POR = 1.32 [1.13, 1.54]) and separately with diabetes mellitus (OR = 1.62 [1.26, 2.09]), depressive symptoms (OR = 1.45 [1.04, 2.00]) and possibly chronic kidney disease (OR = 1.57 [0.98, 2.52]) but not significantly with other conditions (eg, cardiac arrhythmia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

Conclusions

Lower muscle mitochondrial bioenergetic capacities were associated with a worse composite multimorbidity index score. Our results suggest that decrements in muscle mitochondrial energetics may contribute to a greater global burden of disease and are more strongly related to some conditions than others.
Male rape: survivors, support and the law in late twentieth-century England and Wales
Authors: Severs George J
Published: April 2024

Until 1994, men were not recognized legally as victims of rape in England and Wales. This article explores the history of male survivors of rape there, establishing the uneven patchwork of support services available to them prior to 1994. It argues that a growing psychiatric literature which studied male survivors of sexual violence was a major factor in convincing lawmakers to include men as potential victims of rape in updated sexual offence legislation. Other medical professionals played key roles in bringing male survivors to police attention, but psychiatric research was most influential in changing the policy agenda in this arena.
Policing the Enforcers: The Governmentality of Immigration Controls
Authors: Consterdine Erica
Published: April 2024

As border controls have spanned from the territorial border to the interior, outsourcing controls to non-state actors has become the integral technology in everyday bordering. Whilst the racialized consequences of deputizing controls have been illuminated, the governmentality and biopolitical implications of these outsourcing processes have been overlooked. This paper argues that as the architecture of migration controls has evolved, the targets of control have widened; that migration controls have transcended migrants and are also used as a way to control sovereign subjects. Taking the genealogy of UK immigration control policy as a case study, the paper shows how the processes of outsourcing immigration controls to corporations, public institutions, and the private sphere have inverted the target of control through a governmentality of coercive measures and incentive structures. I argue that in outsourcing controls to non-state actors, the taken-for-granted boundaries between who is subject to immigration control and who is not are blurred because as sovereign subjects become complicit in borderwork, they also become subject to state violence. The implication is that all subjects become subject to immigration control, provoking the question of who immigration controls serve and to what end.
The Pandemic Response Commons
Authors: Trunnell Matthew , Frankenberger Casey , Hota Bala , Hughes Troy , Martinov Plamen , Ravichandran Urmila , Shah Nirav S , Grossman Robert L ,   Pandemic Response Commons Consortium, Frankenberger Casey A , Grossman Robert L , Hota Bala , Hughes Troy , Kuffel Gina R , Martinov Plamen , Ribeyre Pauline , Savatore Lea , Shah Nirav , Swirsky Eric S , Trunnell Matthew , Krive Jacob , Holper Tim , Roesch Pamela T , Shah Nirav , Simmons J Alan , Swirsky Eric , Schumm L Philip , Locey Kenneth J , Grossman Robert L , Zhang Zhenyu , Giurcanu Mihai , McKinney Suzet , Willding Stephanie D , Jay Kim , Roesch Pamela T , Swirsky Eric , Salvatore Lea , Grossman Robert L , Hoffman Michelle B , Gagnon Keith T , Sinha Koushik , Trunnell Matthew
Published: April 2024

Objectives

A data commons is a software platform for managing, curating, analyzing, and sharing data with a community. The Pandemic Response Commons (PRC) is a data commons designed to provide a data platform for researchers studying an epidemic or pandemic.

Methods

The PRC was developed using the open source Gen3 data platform and is based upon consortium, data, and platform agreements developed by the not-for-profit Open Commons Consortium. A formal consortium of Chicagoland area organizations was formed to develop and operate the PRC.

Results

The consortium developed a general PRC and an instance of it for the Chicagoland region called the Chicagoland COVID-19 Commons. A Gen3 data platform was set up and operated with policies, procedures, and controls for a NIST SP 800-53 revision 4 Moderate system. A consensus data model for the commons was developed, and a variety of datasets were curated, harmonized and ingested, including statistical summary data about COVID cases, patient level clinical data, and SARS-CoV-2 viral variant data.

Discussion and conclusions

Given the various legal and data agreements required to operate a data commons, a PRC is designed to be in place and operating at a low level prior to the occurrence of an epidemic, with the activities increasing as required during an epidemic. A regional instance of a PRC can also be part of a broader data ecosystem or data mesh consisting of multiple regional commons supporting pandemic response through sharing regional data.
Annual and lunar-cycle-related breeding rhythmicity in the acorn barnacle Tetraclita kuroshioensis Chan, Tsang & Chu, 2007 (Cirripedia: Balanomorpha: Tetraclitidae) in Okinawa, Japan
Authors: Katayama Aoi , Tan Ee Suan , Takekata Hiroki , Takemura Akihiro
Published: April 2024

We investigated the reproduction of the barnacle Tetraclita kuroshioensisChan, Tsang & Chu, 2007 (Cirripedia: Thoracica: Tetraclitidae) at different heights in the intertidal zone in Okinawa, Japan with a focus on gonadal development, the brooding of eggs, and unhatched larvae, as well as the role of environmental factors in breeding rhythmicity. Histological observations collected around each full moon from September 2019 to October 2020 showed various stages of oocyte development in September and October 2019 and from March to September 2020, whereas mature testes were observed from April to October 2020. The breeding season of this species thus lasts for at least seven months under long-day conditions at a water temperature above 21 °C. Barnacles collected from three tidal levels on multiple occasions during April, August, and October 2020 displayed little vertical variation in their stage of ovarian development, but there was a noticeable difference in the percentage of brooding individuals in August and October, as well as an increased prevalence of brooding during the new-moon phase at the upper and middle tidal heights. Our findings indicate that larval release by T. kuroshioensis undergoes seasonal variation, apparently influenced by the cycles of lunar (major factor) and tide (minor factor) in their habitat.
Türkiye’s nuclear energy aspirations: policy challenges and legal trajectory
Authors: Artantas Onur Cagdas
Published: April 2024

This article provides a comprehensive overview of Türkiye’s nuclear energy aspirations, focusing on the historical evolution, international cooperation, organizational structure, legal framework, and policy dimensions. It elaborates on Türkiye’s endeavours to integrate nuclear energy into its national power infrastructure, particularly highlighting the progress made in the development of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant (NPP). Initiated in 1968, the Akkuyu NPP project remained stagnant for decades. It gained momentum in the late 2010s when Rosatom, under an agreement between the Turkish and Russian states, began construction as part of its nuclear export strategy. The article mainly discusses the significant legislative and regulatory advancements made post-2021, propelled by the near completion of the Akkuyu NPP. These actions signify a crucial phase in creating a robust legal framework for nuclear energy in Türkiye. Moreover, the article presents proposals for law and policy, considering geopolitical, economic, and technical constraints, to guide the future direction of Türkiye’s domestic nuclear energy programme. In conclusion, the evolution of nuclear energy law in Türkiye, highlighted by the development of the Akkuyu NPP and subsequent legal and regulatory measures, presents an essential case study.
Bridging the organoid translational gap: integrating standardization and micropatterning for drug screening in clinical and pharmaceutical medicine
Authors: Yang Haowei , Li Jiawei , Wang Zitian , Khutsishvili Davit , Tang Jiyuan , Zhu Yu , Cai Yongde , Dai Xiaoyong , Ma Shaohua
Published: April 2024

Synthetic organ models such as organoids and organ-on-a-chip have been receiving recognition from administrative agencies. Despite the proven success of organoids in predicting drug efficacy on laboratory scales, their translational advances have not fully satisfied the expectations for both clinical implementation and commercial applications. The transition from laboratory settings to clinical applications continues to encounter challenges. Employing engineering methodologies to facilitate the bridging of this gap for organoids represents one of the key directions for future advancement. The main measures to bridge the gap include environmental and phenotypic recapitulation, 3D patterning, matrix engineering, and multi-modality information acquisition and processing. Pilot whole-process clinical/pharmaceutical applications with fast and standardized organoid models will continuously offer convincing frontline optimization clues and driving forces to the organoid community, which is a promising path to translational organoid technologies.
Bi-Gaussianized calibration of likelihood ratios
Authors: Morrison Geoffrey Stewart
Published: April 2024

For a perfectly calibrated forensic evaluation system, the likelihood ratio of the likelihood ratio is the likelihood ratio. Conversion of uncalibrated log-likelihood ratios (scores) to calibrated log-likelihood ratios is often performed using logistic regression. The results, however, may be far from perfectly calibrated. We propose and demonstrate a new calibration method, “bi-Gaussianized calibration,” that warps scores toward perfectly calibrated log-likelihood-ratio distributions. Using both synthetic and real data, we demonstrate that bi-Gaussianized calibration leads to better calibration than does logistic regression, that it is robust to score distributions that violate the assumption of two Gaussians with the same variance, and that it is competitive with logistic-regression calibration in terms of performance measured using log-likelihood-ratio cost (Cllr). We also demonstrate advantages of bi-Gaussianized calibration over calibration using pool-adjacent violators (PAV). Based on bi-Gaussianized calibration, we also propose a graphical representation that may help explain the meaning of likelihood ratios to triers of fact.
Probing dark matter with adaptive-optics based flux ratio anomalies: photometric and astrometric precision
Authors: Zelko Ioana A , Nierenberg Anna M , Treu Tommaso
Published: April 2024

Strong gravitational lensing is a powerful probe of the distribution of matter on sub-kpc scales. It can be used to test the existence of completely dark sub-haloes surrounding galaxies, as predicted by the standard cold dark matter model, or to test alternative dark matter models. The constraining power of the method depends strongly on photometric and astrometric precision and accuracy. We simulate and quantify the capabilities of upcoming adaptive optics systems and advanced instruments on ground-based telescopes, focusing as an illustration on the Keck Telescope (OSIRIS + KAPA, LIGER + KAPA) and the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT; IRIS + NFIRAOS). We show that these new systems will achieve dramatic improvements over current ones in both photometric and astrometric precision. Narrow line flux ratio errors below 2 per cent, and submilliarcsecond astrometric precision will be attainable for typical quadruply imaged quasars. With TMT, the exposure times required will be of order a few minutes per system, enabling the follow-up of 100–1000 systems expected to be discovered by the Rubin, Euclid, and Roman Telescopes.
The chemistry and excitation of H2 and HD in the early Universe
Authors: Faure A , Hily-Blant P , Pineau des Forêts G , Flower D R
Published: April 2024

We have critically reviewed the literature pertaining to reactions that are significant for the chemistry of hydrogen-, deuterium-, and helium-bearing species in the homogeneous early Universe. For each reaction rate coefficient, we provide a fit in the modified-Arrhenius form, specifying the corresponding uncertainty and temperature range. This new network, limited to 21 reactions, should be the most reliable to date. Combined with accurate state-to-state rate coefficients for inelastic and reactive collisions involving H2 and HD, it allows us for the first time to follow the evolution of the abundances of atomic and molecular species, level populations of H2 and HD, and the ortho:para ratio (OPR) of H2, in a self-consistent fashion during the adiabatic expansion of the universe. The abundances of H2 and HD change only marginally compared to previous models, indicating that the uncertainties on the main reaction rate coefficients have essentially been removed. We also find that the adiabatic expansion has a dramatic effect on the OPR of H2, which freezes-out at redshifts z ≲ 50. In contrast, at higher redshifts, the populations of the rotational levels of H2 and HD are predicted to be fully thermalized at the temperature of the cosmic background radiation field, a result that conflicts with some recent, independent calculations. This new network allows the chemistry of primordial gas to be followed during the early phase of collapse towards Population III star progenitors.
Constraints on atmospheric water abundance and cloud deck pressure in the warm Neptune GJ 3470 b via CARMENES transmission spectroscopy
Authors: Dash Spandan , Brogi Matteo , Gandhi Siddharth , Lafarga Marina , Meech Annabella , Bello-Arufe Aaron , Wheatley Peter J
Published: April 2024

Observations of cooler atmospheres of super-Earths and Neptune sized objects often show flat transmission spectra. The most likely cause of this trend is the presence of aerosols (i.e. clouds and hazes) in the atmospheres of such objects. High-resolution spectroscopy provides an opportunity to test this hypothesis by targeting molecular species whose spectral line cores extend above the level of such opaque decks. In this work, we analyse high-resolution infrared observations of the warm Neptune GJ 3470 b taken over two transits using CARMENES (R ∼ 80 000) and look for signatures of H2O (previously detected using Hubble Space Telescope (HST) WFC3 + Spitzer observations) in these transits with a custom pipeline fully accounting for the effects of data cleaning on any potential exoplanet signal. We find that our data are potentially able to weakly detect (∼3σ) an injected signal equivalent to the best-fitting model from previous HST WFC3 + Spitzer observations. However, we do not make a significant detection using the actual observations. Using a Bayesian framework to simultaneously constrain the H2O volume mixing ratio (VMR) and the cloud top pressure level, we select a family of models compatible with the non-detection. These are either very high VMR cloud-free models, solar-abundance models with a high cloud deck, or sub-solar abundance models with a moderate cloud deck. This is a broader range compared to published results from low-resolution spectroscopy, but is also compatible with them at a 1σ level.
Impact of property covariance on cluster weak lensing scaling relations
Authors: Zhang Zhuowen , Farahi Arya , Nagai Daisuke , Lau Erwin T , Frieman Joshua , Ricci Marina , von der Linden Anja , Wu Hao-Yi ,   LSST Dark Energy Science Collaboration, von der Linden Anja , Varga Tamas , Wu Hao-Yi , Hearin Andrew , Kelly Heather , Esteves Johnny , Xhakaj Enia , Zhou Conghao
Published: April 2024

We present an investigation into a hitherto unexplored systematic that affects the accuracy of galaxy cluster mass estimates with weak gravitational lensing. Specifically, we study the covariance between the weak lensing signal, ΔΣ, and the ‘true’ cluster galaxy number count, Ngal, as measured within a spherical volume that is void of projection effects. By quantifying the impact of this covariance on mass calibration, this work reveals a significant source of systematic uncertainty. Using the MDPL2 simulation with galaxies traced by the SAGE semi-analytic model, we measure the intrinsic property covariance between these observables within the three-dimensional vicinity of the cluster, spanning a range of dynamical mass and redshift values relevant for optical cluster surveys. Our results reveal a negative covariance at small radial scales (R ≲ R200c) and a null covariance at large scales (R ≳ R200c) across most mass and redshift bins. We also find that this covariance results in a $2{\!-\!}3~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ bias in the halo mass estimates in most bins. Furthermore, by modelling Ngal and ΔΣ as multi-(log)-linear equations of secondary halo properties, we provide a quantitative explanation for the physical origin of the negative covariance at small scales. Specifically, we demonstrate that the Ngal–ΔΣ covariance can be explained by the secondary properties of haloes that probe their formation history. We attribute the difference between our results and the positive bias seen in other works with (mock)-cluster finders to projection effects. These findings highlight the importance of accounting for the covariance between observables in cluster mass estimation, which is crucial for obtaining accurate constraints on cosmological parameters.
Number of Influenza Risk Factors Informs an Adult's Increased Potential of Severe Influenza Outcomes: A Multiseason Cohort Study From 2015 to 2020
Authors: McGovern Ian , Cappell Katherine , Bogdanov Alina N , Haag Mendel D M
Published: April 2024

Background

While studies have evaluated factors influencing the risk of severe influenza outcomes, there is limited evidence on the additive impact of having multiple influenza risk factors and how this varies by age.

Methods

Patients ≥18 years of age in the United States were evaluated retrospectively in 5 seasonal cohorts during the 2015–2020 influenza seasons. Patient-level electronic medical records linked to pharmacy and medical claims were used to ascertain covariates and outcomes. Multivariable logistic regression models were fitted for the overall population and by age subgroups to evaluate the association of demographic and clinical characteristics with odds of influenza-related medical encounters (ICD-10 codes J09*–J11*). The logistic regression models included sex, race/ethnicity, geographic region, baseline health care resource use, vaccination status, specific high-risk comorbidities, number of influenza risk factors, body mass index, and smoking status. Odds ratios from each of the 5 seasons were summarized via fixed effect meta-analysis.

Results

Season cohort sizes ranged from 887 260 to 3 628 168 adults. Of all patient characteristics evaluated, an individual’s cumulative number of high-risk influenza conditions, as defined per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, was the most predictive of an increased probability of having an influenza-related medical encounter overall and across age groups. For adults of any age, odds ratios for influenza hospitalization ranged from 1.8 (95% CI, 1.7–2.0) for 1 risk factor to 6.4 (95% CI, 5.8–7.0) for ≥4 risk factors.

Conclusions

These results show that a simple measure such as the number of influenza risk factors can be highly informative of an adult's potential for severe influenza outcomes.
Risk Factors for and Outcomes Following Early Acquisition ofMycobacterium abscessusComplex After Lung Transplantation
Authors: Nick Sophie E , Yarrington Michael E , Reynolds John M , Anderson Deverick J , Baker Arthur W
Published: April 2024

Background

Lung transplant recipients are at increased risk of Mycobacterium abscessus complex (MABC) acquisition and invasive infection. We analyzed risk factors and outcomes of early post–lung transplant MABC acquisition.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective matched case–control study of patients who underwent lung transplant from 1/1/2012 to 12/31/2021 at a single large tertiary care facility. Cases had de novo MABC isolation within 90 days post-transplant. Controls had no positive MABC cultures and were matched 3:1 with cases based on age and transplant date. Recipient demographics and pre-/peri-operative characteristics were analyzed, and a regression model was used to determine independent risk factors for MABC acquisition. We also assessed 1-year post-transplant outcomes, including mortality.

Results

Among 1145 lung transplants, we identified 79 cases and 237 matched controls. Post-transplant mechanical ventilation for >48 hours was independently associated with MABC acquisition (adjusted odds ratio, 2.46; 95% CI, 1.29–4.72; P = .007). Compared with controls, cases required more days of hospitalization after the MABC index date (28 vs 12 days; P = .01) and had decreased 1-year post-transplant survival (78% vs 89%; log-rank P = .02). One-year mortality appeared highest for cases who acquired M. abscessus subsp. abscessus (31% mortality) or had extrapulmonary infections (43% mortality).

Conclusions

In this large case–control study, prolonged post-transplant ventilator duration was associated with early post–lung transplant MABC acquisition, which in turn was associated with increased hospital-days and mortality. Further studies are needed to determine the best strategies for MABC prevention, surveillance, and management.
Effective data-driven collective variables for free energy calculations from metadynamics of paths
Authors: Müllender Lukas , Rizzi Andrea , Parrinello Michele , Carloni Paolo , Mandelli Davide
Published: April 2024

A variety of enhanced sampling (ES) methods predict multidimensional free energy landscapes associated with biological and other molecular processes as a function of a few selected collective variables (CVs). The accuracy of these methods is crucially dependent on the ability of the chosen CVs to capture the relevant slow degrees of freedom of the system. For complex processes, finding such CVs is the real challenge. Machine learning (ML) CVs offer, in principle, a solution to handle this problem. However, these methods rely on the availability of high-quality datasets—ideally incorporating information about physical pathways and transition states—which are difficult to access, therefore greatly limiting their domain of application. Here, we demonstrate how these datasets can be generated by means of ES simulations in trajectory space via the metadynamics of paths algorithm. The approach is expected to provide a general and efficient way to generate efficient ML-based CVs for the fast prediction of free energy landscapes in ES simulations. We demonstrate our approach with two numerical examples, a 2D model potential and the isomerization of alanine dipeptide, using deep targeted discriminant analysis as our ML-based CV of choice.
Discordance Between Insurance Coverage of Antiviral Medications and Nicotine Replacement Therapy Among Individuals With Human Immunodeficiency Virus Who Smoke
Authors: Bernstein Steven L. , Yager Jessica E. , Sigel Keith , Porter Elizabeth , Do Tina , Payne Erika , Bold Krysten , Ledgerwood David , Edelman E. Jennifer
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Tobacco contributes to the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among persons with human immunodeficiency virus (PWHs). Nonetheless, medications for tobacco use disorder are widely underused, particularly among PWHs. We sought to characterize the extent to which insurance barriers impacted access to medications for tobacco use disorder and, in comparison, to access to antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of data on individuals enrolled in a randomized clinical trial to address tobacco use involving nicotine replacement therapy and, for some, additionally, varenicline or bupropion. Medication prescriptions are transmitted electronically from the clinic to neighborhood pharmacies. Data sources included participant assessments and intervention visit tracking forms.

Results

Of 93 participants enrolled from September 2020 to July 2021, 20 (22%) were unable to fill or had difficulty filling their nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) prescriptions because of insurance barriers. These fell into 2 broad categories: enrollment in a publicly insured managed care plan in which the pharmacy benefit manager excluded nonprescription NRT and lack of understanding by the pharmacy of the scope of coverage. Of these 20 participants, 5 (25%) were unable to obtain medications at all, and 3 of these participants dropped out of the study. One additional participant paid out-of-pocket to obtain NRT. No participant was denied coverage of ART, bupropion, or varenicline.

Conclusions

Gaps in insurance coverage may result in PWHs receiving ART without simultaneous medical management of their tobacco use. This may undermine the efficacy of antivirals. Mandated insurance coverage of nonprescription NRT may improve the health of PWHs who smoke.
The recent two decades of traumatic brain injury: a bibliometric analysis and systematic review
Authors: Ye Ziyin , Li Zhi , Zhong Shiyu , Xing Qichen , Li Kunhang , Sheng Weichen , Shi Xin , Bao Yijun
Published: April 2024

Background:

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious public health burden worldwide, with a mortality rate of 20–30%; however, reducing the incidence and mortality rates of TBI remains a major challenge. This study provides a multidimensional analysis to explore the potential breakthroughs in TBI over the past two decades.

Materials and methods:

The authors used bibliometric and Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) analyses to analyze publications focusing on TBI published between 2003 and 2022 from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) database to identify core journals and collaborations among countries/regions, institutions, authors, and research trends.

Results:

Over the past 20 years, 41 545 articles on TBI from 3043 journals were included, with 12 916 authors from 20 449 institutions across 145 countries/regions. The annual number of publications has increased 10-fold compared to previous publications. This study revealed that high-income countries, especially the United States, have a significant influence. Collaboration was limited to several countries/regions. The LDA results indicated that the hotspots included four main areas: ‘Clinical finding’, ‘Molecular mechanism’, ‘Epidemiology’, and ‘Prognosis’. Epidemiological research has consistently increased in recent years. Through epidemiological topic analysis, the main etiology of TBI has shifted from traffic accidents to falls in a demographically aging society.

Conclusion:

Over the past two decades, TBI research has developed rapidly, and its epidemiology has received increasing attention. Reducing the incidence of TBI from a preventive perspective is emerging as a trend to alleviate the future social burden; therefore, epidemiological research might bring breakthroughs in TBI.
Vonoprazan is Not Inferior to Proton Pump Inhibitors in Bismuth-containing Quadruple Therapy for Helicobacter pylori Eradication
Authors: Cheng Yujie , Yang Lin , Xu Si , Zhang Chong
Published: April 2024

Objective:

To investigate the efficacy and safety of vonoprazan based bismuth-containing quadruple therapy (VBCQ) in eradicating Helicobacter pylori (Hp).

Materials and Methods:

The VBCQ and the proton pump inhibitor-based bismuth-containing quadruple regimen (PBCQ) were compared by retrieving relevant studies in Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, and Wanfang data. Combined analysis was performed with risk ratio (RR) and 95% CI as effect values.

Results:

A total of 10 studies were enrolled, including 7 randomized controlled trials and 3 cohort studies. In intention-to-treat analysis, the eradication rate of VBCQ (89.24%, 1103/1236) was significantly higher than that of PBCQ (84.03%, 1021/1215), with RR = 1.06 (95% CI: 1.03~1.10). In per-protocol analysis, the eradication rates of VBCQ and PBCQ were 92.94% (895/963) and 87.82% (829/944), respectively, with a significant difference (RR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.03~1.09). Subgroup analysis of study design types shared similar results. VBCQ and PBCQ showed an incidence of adverse reactions of 37.30% (304/815) and 34.94% (282/807), respectively. Significant differences were not found between the two groups (RR = 1.07, 95% CI: 0.96-1.19), nor in subgroup analysis. The good compliance rates in VBCQ and PBCQ groups were 94.32% (216/229) and 95.13% (215/226), respectively, with no significant difference (RR = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.95~1.04).

Conclusion:

VBCQ has a higher eradication rate on Hp than PBCQ, while its adverse reactions and compliance are similar to PBCQ. However, we conservatively believe that in Hp eradication, the VBCQ is not inferior to PBCQ because of the small absolute difference.
A giant ovarian cyst torsion: Case report
Authors: Hongju He
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Adnexal torsion (AT) is one of a gynecological condition characterized by an acute abdomen. Clinically, a giant ovarian cyst torsion with a diameter of 30 cm is rare. Therefore, an accurate and timely diagnosis and treatment are important.

Patient concerns:

A 25-year-old unmarried female, presented to the emergency department with intermittent abdominal cramps after a sudden change in position. Considering her symptoms and examination, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results, ovarian cyst torsion was suspected.

Diagnosis:

Giant ovarian cyst torsion.

Interventions:

Surgical intervention with exploratory laparotomy was performed immediately.

Outcomes:

Intraoperatively, we found a 30-cm left ovarian cyst with a clear root. The left fallopian tube, infundibulopelvic ligament, and ovarian ligament were twisted 900 degrees. Finally, the pathological report revealed mucinous cystadenoma.

Conclusion:

Giant ovarian cyst torsion with a diameter of 30 cm is rare. Considering her symptoms and examination, ultrasound, and MRI results, ovarian cyst torsion was suspected. The patient was successfully treated using emergency surgery.
The top 100 most cited articles in the treatment of basal cell carcinoma over the last decade: A bibliometric analysis and review
Authors: Lin Jinger , Luo Min , Zhuo Qianwei , Zhang Haosong , Chen Nuo , Han Yue
Published: April 2024

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) represents the most prevalent cancer globally. The past decade has witnessed significant advancements in BCC treatment, primarily through bibliometric studies. Aiming to perform a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of BCC treatments to comprehend the research landscape and identify trends within this domain, a dataset comprising 100 scientific publications from the Web of Science Core Collection was analyzed. Country co-operation, journal co-citation, theme bursts, keyword co-occurrence, author co-operation, literature co-citation, and field-specific references were examined using VOSviewer and CiteSpace visualization tools. These articles, published between 2013 and 2020, originated predominantly from 30 countries/regions and 159 institutions, with the USA and Germany at the forefront, involving a total of 1118 authors. The keyword analysis revealed significant emphasis on the hedgehog pathway, Mohs micrographic surgery, and photodynamic therapy. The research shows developed nations are at the forefront in advancing BCC therapies, with significant focus on drugs targeting the hedgehog pathway. This treatment avenue has emerged as a crucial area, meriting considerable attention in BCC therapeutic strategies.
Spinal schistosomiasis mimickingspinal tumour: a case report
Authors: Molla Yohannis Derbew , Alemu Hirut Tesfahun , Zegeye Kassa Berie , Answar Isak Omer , Abera Samuel Addisu , Adisu Girma Damtew , Kassie Dagnachew Akalu , Selamawi Almaz Enku , Tefera Esayas Adefirs
Published: April 2024

Introduction and importance:

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease, is caused by blood flukes from the schistosoma genus. Neuroschistosomiasis is the most severe form of schistosomiasis, which occurs when the host’s brain and spinal cord react to the deposition of eggs, leading to neurological symptoms. Neuroschistosomiasis causes various signs and symptoms, such as myelopathy, radiculopathy, and elevated intracranial pressure.

Case presentation:

A 12-year-old child from Ethiopia who presented with progressive weakness in his lower extremities that has been ongoing for 2 months. Alongside the weakness, the patient also experienced tingling sensations and numbness in his lower extremities. Additionally, he had bladder and bowel incontinence. Spinal MRI showed signs suggestive of myxopapillary ependymoma, but the histopathology result showed schistosomiasis. Postoperatively, the patient had a slight improvement in terms of lower extremity weakness (flickering of the digits). However, there was no improvement in his continence ability.

Clinical discussion:

The most common neurological manifestation of Schistosoma mansoni infection is myelopathy, which includes subacute myeloradiculopathy and acute transverse myelitis. The cauda equina and conus medullaris are the areas most frequently affected.

Conclusion:

When spinal schistosomiasis presents itself as a mimicking spinal tumour, it poses a complex clinical challenge that necessitates a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. It is imperative for healthcare practitioners to enhance their knowledge and awareness of this uncommon parasitic infection, particularly in regions where it is prevalent.
Curricular Mapping
Authors: Laverentz Delois Meyer , Guilkey D. Kathaleen , Johnson Regina (Gina) H.
Published: April 2024

Background:

A Midwest school of nursing initiated an integrated concept-based curriculum where essential content is taught using exemplars. The specialty courses were integrated to address content overload and the duplication of content with different populations.

Problem:

The faculty wanted to determine if the previous curriculum had been sufficiently integrated into the exemplars and if there were curricular gaps.

Approach:

A curriculum mapping project was conducted to assess the integration of the previous curriculum into the exemplars. Specifically, faculty evaluated exemplars for characteristics of: (1) individuals, (2) health care systems, (3) specialties, (3) nurse characteristics, and (4) interprofessional practice.

Conclusions:

Exemplars in an integrated concept-based curriculum can provide a broad representation of individuals across the life span and settings. Curricular mapping is an assessment tool that can identify curricular gaps and the need for refinement within the curricula to meet current and future directions within the health care environment.
Using Open Educational Practices
Authors: Perry Beth , Ives Cindy , Walsh Pam
Published: April 2024

Background:

This paper reports on our use of open educational practices (OEPs) with online students in nursing.

Purpose:

Our aim was to provide nurse educators with knowledge about (and examples of) OEPs they could use to enhance student learning and their career satisfaction.

Method:

Using collaborative autoethnography, we probed our open teaching strategies. With Swanson’s middle-range theory of caring as a theoretical framework and thematic analysis of our data set (which included literature annotations, dialogic conversation transcripts, individual reflections, and course evaluations), we uncovered 5 themes relevant to nursing education.

Results:

The themes are student achievement of affective domain learning outcomes, our values as a blueprint for action, alignment of our OEPs and relational pedagogy, mutuality of the experience, and the ongoing process of learning to be an open educational practitioner.

Conclusion:

Using OEPs can help develop skilled and caring nurses.
Methylomonas defluvii sp. nov., a type I methane-oxidizing bacterium from a secondary sedimentation tank of a wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Ouyang Ming-Yan , Wang Sai , Nie Wen-Han , Wang Pei-Hong , Liao Wei-Xue , Liu Xiao-Hui , Lin Si-Si , Lin Rong-Peng , Chen Gong-You , Zhu Bo , Shen Jian
Published: April 2024

An aerobic methanotroph was isolated from a secondary sedimentation tank of a wastewater treatment plant and designated strain OY6T. Cells of OY6T were Gram-stain-negative, pink-pigmented, motile rods and contained an intracytoplasmic membrane structure typical of type I methanotrophs. OY6T could grow at a pH range of 4.5–7.5 (optimum pH 6.5) and at temperatures ranging from 20 °C to 37 °C (optimum 30 °C). The major cellular fatty acids were C14 : 0, C16 : 1ω7c/C16 : 1ω6c and C16 : 1ω5c; the predominant respiratory quinone was MQ-8. The genome size was 5.41 Mbp with a DNA G+C content of 51.7 mol%. OY6T represents a member of the family Methylococcaceae of the class Gammaproteobacteria and displayed 95.74–99.64 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to the type strains of species of the genus Methylomonas. Whole-genome comparisons based on average nucleotide identity (ANI) and digital DNA–DNA hybridisation (dDDH) confirmed that OY6T should be classified as representing a novel species. The most closely related type strain was Methylomonas fluvii EbBT, with 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, ANI by blast (ANIb), ANI by MUMmer (ANIm) and dDDH values of 99.64, 90.46, 91.92 and 44.5 %, respectively. OY6T possessed genes encoding both the particulate methane monooxygenase enzyme and the soluble methane monooxygenase enzyme. It grew only on methane or methanol as carbon sources. On the basis of phenotypic, genetic and phylogenetic data, strain OY6T represents a novel species within the genus Methylomonas for which the name Methylomonas defluvii sp. nov. is proposed, with strain OY6T (=GDMCC 1.4114T=KCTC 8159T=LMG 33371T) as the type strain.