bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Help for insomnia from the app store? A standardized rating of mobile health applications claiming to target insomnia
Authors: Simon Laura , Reimann Josephin , Steubl Lena Sophia , Stach Michael , Spiegelhalder Kai , Sander Lasse Bosse , Baumeister Harald , Messner Eva‐Maria , Terhorst Yannik
Published: May 2022

A large number of mobile health applications claiming to target insomnia are available in commercial app stores. However, limited information on the quality of these mobile health applications exists. The present study aimed to systematically search the European Google Play and Apple App Store for mobile health applications targeting insomnia, and evaluate the quality, content, evidence base and potential therapeutic benefit. Eligible mobile health applications were evaluated by two independent reviewers using the Mobile Application Rating Scale‐German, which ranges from 1 – inadequate to 5 – excellent. Of 2236 identified mobile health applications, 53 were included in this study. Most mobile health applications (68%) had a moderate overall quality. Concerning the four main subscales of the Mobile Application Rating Scale‐German, functionality was rated highest (M = 4.01, SD = 0.52), followed by information quality (M = 3.49, SD = 0.72), aesthetics (M = 3.31, SD = 1.04) and engagement (M = 3.02, SD = 1.03). While scientific evidence was identified for 10 mobile health applications (19%), only one study employed a randomized controlled design. Fifty mobile health applications featured sleep hygiene/psychoeducation (94%), 27 cognitive therapy (51%), 26 relaxation methods (49%), 24 stimulus control (45%), 16 sleep restriction (30%) and 24 sleep diaries (45%). Mobile health applications may have the potential to improve the care of insomnia. Yet, data on the effectiveness of mobile health applications are scarce, and this study indicates a large variance in the quality of the mobile health applications. Thus, independent information platforms are needed to provide healthcare seekers and providers with reliable information on the quality and content of mobile health applications.
What facilitates hepatitis B and hepatitis C testing and the role of stigma among primary care patients in China?
Authors: Marley Gifty , Seto Wai‐Kay , Yan Weihui , Chan Polin , Tucker Joseph D. , Tang Weiming , Wong William C. W.
Published: May 2022

Approximately 80% of primary healthcare facilities in China were ready to deliver hepatitis care services by 2021. This study aimed to assess hepatitis B and C test uptake, identify the factors associated with testing and determine the predictors of hepatitis stigma among primary care patients. We conducted a cross‐sectional survey among patients seeking care in the family medicine and primary care unit of the University of Hong Kong‐Shenzhen Hospital, China. Participants were 30 years or older and had not tested for HBV and HCV in the preceding 12 months. Test uptake was defined as self‐reported previous HBV and HCV testing. Descriptive statistics, Chi‐square test, forward multivariable logistic regression and stepwise multiple linear regression were conducted, and a p‐value <.05 was deemed statistically significant. A total of 750 eligible patients completed the survey, and 54.5% (404 ± 0.9) were between 30 and 40 years old. Most participants were heterosexuals 98.0% (n = 735), female 57.5% (n = 431), married 78.3% (587) and earned ≤1500 USD per month 54.4% (n = 408). A 66.1% (n = 496) and 13.7% (n = 103) self‐reported previous HBV and HCV testing, respectively, and 62% (n = 468) were vaccinated. HCV testing was associated with HBV testing (aOR = 13.7, 95% CI:2.1–91.5); and HBV testing was associated with family history of HBV (aOR = 2.4, 95%CI:1.1–5.5). Overall hepatitis stigma was about average and decreased with family history of HBV (p = .017). In conclusion, HCV testing uptake among primary care patients was low and needs to be further promoted. Integrating HBV and HCV testing interventions and fostering family‐based support for disclosure could effectively improve testing uptake.
Vertical and horizontal light heterogeneity along gradients of secondary succession in cool‐ and warm‐temperate forests
Authors: Matsuo Tomonari , Hiura Tsutom , Onoda Yusuke
Published: May 2022

Aims

Light availability varies drastically in forests, both vertically and horizontally. Vertical light heterogeneity (i.e., patterns of light attenuation from the forest canopy to the floor) may be related to light competition among trees, while horizontal light heterogeneity (i.e., variations in light intensity at a given height within forests) may be associated with light‐niche partitioning among tree species. However, light heterogeneity in vertical and horizontal directions and their associations with forest structure are rarely studied to date. Here we report the first comprehensive study to compare the vertical and horizontal light heterogeneity in differently aged forests in two forest types.

Location

Twelve forest stands of different ages in cool‐temperate forests (consisting of deciduous broad‐leaved trees) and five of different ages in warm‐temperate forests (evergreen conifer and deciduous broad‐leaved trees) in Japan.

Methods

We measured vertical light profiles at 1‐m intervals from the understorey (1 m above the ground) to the top canopy (12–22 m depending on stands) at 16 locations for each stand (20 m × 20 m). We also measured structural parameters (diameter at breast height, height, and crown dimensions) for all major trees in these stands.

Results

Along the secondary successional gradients, the vertical and horizontal light heterogeneity changed in a systematic manner in both forests. The vertical light attenuation rate was steeper in early succession and more gradual in late succession, and the horizontal light heterogeneity was relatively small in early succession and more pronounced in late succession. The vertical light attenuation rate was different between the two forest types; the light intensity dropped more sharply from the canopy surface in the cool‐temperate forests due to the crown being vertically shorter and denser (i.e., higher leaf density per unit volume).

Conclusion

In early succession, a steeper light attenuation rate is likely related to the strong light competition among co‐occurring trees and thus a self‐thinning process. In late succession, the high spatial light heterogeneity in forests (i.e., larger horizontal light heterogeneity and gradual light attenuation rate) may allow more species to partition light, and thus may enhance species coexistence and diversity.
Is horn length crucial for Alpine chamois?
Authors: Grignolio S. , Brivio F. , Chirichella R. , Apollonio M.
Published: May 2022

Animal weapons are one of the most studied morphological traits, particularly in Artiodactyla. Since in polygynous species males with larger weapons tend to be more successful in gaining access to females, researchers have traditionally focused on horn size. However, in species with limited horn size, weapon size has been assumed to have a reduced or null effect on life history traits. We examined the effect of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on the length of the second and third segments of Alpine chamois horns (Rupicapra rupicapra) in a population living in a poor environment. Our aim was to test how environmental conditions affected weapon growth and whether compensatory growth occurred. We showed that horn length was isometric to body size, although male horns grew more quickly. Ecological factors such as snow and forage availability affected weapon length, though mildly. No sign of compensatory growth was detected. We inferred that chamois mainly use horns as armament in intrasexual interactions. However, horn length was not a key element since horn growth remained isometric, at least under suboptimal ecological conditions. In species without extreme weapons, the handicap caused by longer horns is likely not compensated by an increase in individual fitness.
Incidental and Multimodal High Variability Phonetic Training: Potential, Limits, and Future Directions
Authors: Saito Kazuya , Hanzawa Keiko , Petrova Katya , Kachlicka Magdalena , Suzukida Yui , Tierney Adam
Published: May 2022

Scholars have extensively investigated the effectiveness of high variability phonetic training (HVPT), that is, identification and discrimination of second language speech sounds produced by multiple speakers followed by trial‐by‐trial feedback. Building on the notion of incidental and multimodal learning in cognitive psychology (e.g., Lim & Holt, 2011), we developed a new, HVPT‐based videogame paradigm in which participants aimed to shoot clay targets as fast as possible while being guided to learn sound cues as a by‐product of planned learning. Focusing on the speech acquisition of 58 Japanese English‐as‐a‐foreign‐language learners, the current study set out to test the pedagogical potential and limits of the incidental HVPT approach. According to the results of statistical analyses, the effectiveness of incidental HVPT can be more clearly observed if it focuses on more learnable targets (e.g., acquisition of English [æ]–[ʌ] rather than [r]–[l] contrasts) with gains being more generalizable from trained to new speakers’ voices and from perception to production dimensions.
Fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) distribution modeling on their Nordic and Barents Seas feeding grounds
Authors: Duengen Diandra , Burkhardt Elke , El‐Gabbas Ahmed
Published: May 2022

Understanding cetacean distribution is essential for conservation planning and decision‐making, particularly in regions subject to rapid environmental changes. Nevertheless, information on their spatiotemporal distribution is commonly limited, especially from remote areas. Species distribution models (SDMs) are powerful tools, relating species occurrences to environmental variables to predict the species' potential distribution. This study aims at using presence‐only SDMs (MaxEnt) to identify suitable habitats for fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) on their Nordic and Barents Seas feeding grounds. We used spatial‐block cross‐validation to tune MaxEnt parameters and evaluate model performance using spatially independent testing data. We considered spatial sampling bias correction using four methods. Important environmental variables were distance to shore and sea ice edge, variability of sea surface temperature and sea surface salinity, and depth. Suitable fin whale habitats were predicted along the west coast of Svalbard, between Svalbard and the eastern Norwegian Sea, coastal areas off Iceland and southern East Greenland, and along the Knipovich Ridge to Jan Mayen. Results support that presence‐only SDMs are effective tools to predict cetacean habitat suitability, particularly in remote areas like the Arctic Ocean. SDMs constitute a cost‐effective method for targeting future surveys and identifying top priority sites for conservation measures.
Current situation of fungal diseases in Eritrea
Authors: Werkneh Sara , Orefuwa Emma , Denning David W.
Published: May 2022

The epidemiology of fungal infections in Eritrea is unknown. Most cases are under‐reported due to a lack of diagnostics. This study estimates the burden of serious fungal infections and highlights treatment and diagnostic gaps in the country. All publications related to fungal infections were identified by searches using PubMed/Medline and Google Scholar. Where no data were available, data from neighbouring countries, then sub‐Saharan African countries, then other parts of the world were considered for deriving estimates. The Eritrea population was 3,546,427 in 2020. In 2020, HIV/AIDS patients numbered 1400 and TB incidence were 2875. The five‐year adult prevalence of asthma (2016–2020) was 41,390, and the total prevalence estimate of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was 308,328. The annual incidence of cryptococcal meningitis and Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in AIDS patients was estimated at 96 and 205 cases. Oesophageal candidiasis incidence is 715 HIV‐infected patients. Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis prevalence, including post‐tuberculosis cases, was estimated at 1399 (39/100,000). Fungal asthma has a prevalence of 1035 and 1366 in adults. The estimated prevalence of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis and tinea capitis is 59,391 and 342,585, respectively. There are no data on candidaemia, but it is estimated at 5/100,000 (177 cases annually). Invasive aspergillosis in leukaemia, lung cancer, COPD and HIV is estimated at 540 cases and fungal keratitis in 514 cases annually. Serious fungal infections are prevalent in Eritrea with approximately 408,164 people (11.5%) affected annually. Studies on fungal diseases to improve diagnosis and treatment are required with the implementation of a national surveillance program.
Effects of non‐pharmacologic prevention on delirium in critically ill patients: A network meta‐analysis
Authors: Matsuura Yutaka , Ohno Yuko , Toyoshima Miki , Ueno Takayoshi
Published: May 2022

Background

Delirium is a common complication among patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). It is important to prevent the occurrence of delirium in critically ill patients.

Aim

This review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of non‐pharmacological interventions and determine what combination of these is effective in preventing delirium among Intensive Care Unit patients.

Study Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis. This review follows the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta Analysis statements for Network Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA‐NMA). Data sources included the Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature., MEDLINE, and Cochrane library databases. The integrated data were investigated with odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI), using the random‐effects Mantel–Haenszel model. Data were considered significant when p < 0.05. Furthermore, to reveal what combination of care is effective, we performed a network meta‐analysis estimated OR, 95% CI.

Results

We identified three randomized controlled trials and eight controlled before‐after trials (11 in total, with 2549 participants). The pooled data from 11 trials of multicomponent intervention had a significant effect on delirium prevention (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.44–0.76, p < 0.001). As a result of network meta‐analysis, two bundles were effective compared to the control group in reducing the incidence of delirium: a) the combination of sleep promotion (SP), cognitive stimulation (CS), early mobilization (EM), pain control (PC), and assessment (AS) (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.35–0.64, p < 0.002), and b) the combination of SP and CS (OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.28–0.75, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study revealed that non‐pharmacological interventions, particularly multicomponent interventions, helped to prevent delirium in critically ill patients. In the network meta‐analysis, the most effective care combination for reducing incidence of delirium was found to be multicomponent intervention, which comprises SP‐CS‐EM‐PC‐AS, and SP‐CS.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

These findings reveal an efficient combination of multicomponent interventions for preventing delirium, which may be a very important prerequisite in planning care programs in the future.
Improved pathogen and stress tolerance in tomato mutants of SET domain histone 3 lysine methyltransferases
Authors: Bvindi Carol , Lee Sanghun , Tang Liang , Mickelbart Michael V. , Li Ying , Mengiste Tesfaye
Published: May 2022

Histone lysine methylations (HLMs) are implicated in control of gene expression in different eukaryotes. However, the role of HLMs in regulating desirable crop traits and the enzymes involved in these modifications are poorly understood.

We studied the functions of tomato histone H3 lysine methyltransferases SET Domain Group 33 (SDG33) and SDG34 in biotic and abiotic stress responses. SDG33 and SDG34 gene edited mutants were altered in H3K36 and H3K4 methylations, and expression of genes involved in diverse processes and responses to biotic and abiotic stimuli.

The double but not the single mutants show resistance to the fungal pathogen Botrytis cinerea. Interestingly, single mutants were tolerant to drought and the double mutant showed superior tolerance and plant growth consistent with independent and additive functions. Mutants maintained higher water status during drought and improved recovery and survival after lapse of drought.

Notably, diminution of H3K4 and H3K36 trimethylation and expression of negative regulators in challenged plants contributes to stress tolerance of the mutants. Mutations in SDG33 and SDG34 are likely to remove predisposition to biotic and abiotic stress by disrupting permissive transcriptional context promoting expression of negative regulatory factors. These allows improvement of stress and pathogen tolerance, without growth trade‐offs, through modification of histone epigenetic marks.
Divergence of hydraulic traits among tropical forest trees across topographic and vertical environment gradients in Borneo
Authors: Bittencourt Paulo Roberto de Lima , Bartholomew David C. , Banin Lindsay F. , Bin Suis Mohamed Aminur Faiz , Nilus Reuben , Burslem David F. R. P. , Rowland Lucy
Published: May 2022

Fine‐scale topographic–edaphic gradients are common in tropical forests and drive species spatial turnover and marked changes in forest structure and function. We evaluate how hydraulic traits of tropical tree species relate to vertical and horizontal spatial niche specialization along such a gradient.

Along a topographic–edaphic gradient with uniform climate in Borneo, we measured six key hydraulic traits in 156 individuals of differing heights in 13 species of Dipterocarpaceae. We investigated how hydraulic traits relate to habitat, tree height and their interaction on this gradient.

Embolism resistance increased in trees on sandy soils but did not vary with tree height. By contrast, water transport capacity increased on sandier soils and with increasing tree height. Habitat and height only interact for hydraulic efficiency, with slope for height changing from positive to negative from the clay‐rich to the sandier soil. Habitat type influenced trait–trait relationships for all traits except wood density.

Our data reveal that variation in the hydraulic traits of dipterocarps is driven by a combination of topographic–edaphic conditions, tree height and taxonomic identity. Our work indicates that hydraulic traits play a significant role in shaping forest structure across topographic–edaphic and vertical gradients and may contribute to niche specialization among dipterocarp species.
Routes to roots: direct evidence of water transport by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi to host plants
Authors: Kakouridis Anne , Hagen John A. , Kan Megan P. , Mambelli Stefania , Feldman Lewis J. , Herman Donald J. , Weber Peter K. , Pett‐Ridge Jennifer , Firestone Mary K.
Published: May 2022

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can help mitigate plant responses to water stress, but it is unclear whether AMF do so by indirect mechanisms, direct water transport to roots, or a combination of the two. Here, we investigated if and how the AMF Rhizophagus intraradices transported water to the host plant Avena barbata, wild oat.

We used two‐compartment microcosms, isotopically labeled water, and a fluorescent dye to directly track and quantify water transport by AMF across an air gap to host plants.

Plants grown with AMF that had access to a physically separated compartment containing 18O‐labeled water transpired almost twice as much as plants with AMF excluded from that compartment. Using an isotopic mixing model, we estimated that water transported by AMF across the air gap accounted for 34.6% of the water transpired by host plants. In addition, a fluorescent dye indicated that hyphae were able to transport some water via an extracytoplasmic pathway.

Our study provides direct evidence that AMF can act as extensions of the root system along the soil–plant–air continuum of water movement, with plant transpiration driving water flow along hyphae outside of the hyphal cell membrane.
Untying Gordian knots: unraveling reticulate polyploid plant evolution by genomic data using the large Ranunculus auricomus species complex
Authors: Karbstein Kevin , Tomasello Salvatore , Hodač Ladislav , Wagner Natascha , Marinček Pia , Barke Birthe Hilkka , Paetzold Claudia , Hörandl Elvira
Published: May 2022

Speciation via hybridization and polyploidization is a major evolutionary force in plant evolution but is still poorly understood for neopolyploid groups. Challenges are attributed to high heterozygosity, low genetic divergence, and missing information on progenitors, ploidy, and reproduction. We study the large Eurasian Ranunculus auricomus species complex and use a comprehensive workflow integrating reduced‐representation sequencing (RRS) genomic data to unravel reticulate evolution, genome diversity and composition of polyploids.

We rely on 97 312 restriction site‐associated DNA sequencing (RAD‐Seq) loci, 576 targeted nuclear genes (48 phased), and 71 plastid regions derived from 78 polyploid apomictic taxa and four diploid and one tetraploid putative sexual progenitor species. We applied (phylo)genomic structure, network, and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)‐origin analyses.

Results consistently showed only 3–5 supported and geographically structured polyploid genetic groups, each containing extant sexual and one unknown progenitor species. Combined analyses demonstrated predominantly allopolyploid origins, each involving 2–3 different diploid sexual progenitor species. Young allotetraploids were characterized by subgenome dominance and nonhybrid SNPs, suggesting substantial post‐origin but little lineage‐specific evolution.

The biodiversity of neopolyploid complexes can result from multiple hybrid origins involving different progenitors and substantial post‐origin evolution (e.g. homoeologous exchanges, hybrid segregation, gene flow). Reduced‐representation sequencing genomic data including multi‐approach information is efficient to delimit shallow reticulate relationships.
Do children get dry socket?—The incidence and pattern of presentation of alveolar osteitis in children and adolescents following dental extractions
Authors: Donnell Christopher C. , Clark Megan V. , Corbett Ian P.
Published: May 2022

Background

Alveolar osteitis (AO) is widely reported as the most common post‐operative complication following surgical and non‐surgical exodontia. Despite being one of the most studied complications in dentistry, there is no established consensus on its aetiology, alongside a relative paucity of studies looking exclusively into AO incidence in children and adolescents.

Objectives

To determine the incidence, risk factors and pattern of presentation of AO in children and adolescents following exodontia, as well as identifying concepts and theories to provide a basis regarding why such a common post‐operative complication reportedly manifests so rarely in the paediatric population.

Methods

This cross‐sectional analysis forms part of a prospective service evaluation of the exodontia service provided by Newcastle Dental Hospital. All patients aged 5–16 who underwent dental extractions of deciduous and/or permanent teeth under general anaesthetic (GA) between 15 June 2020 and the 15 July 2020 were telephoned 1 week following their procedure to determine if any had developed post‐operative complications. Data were cleaned manually and analysed using descriptive statistics, exploratory analysis with chi‐squared tests and multivariable analyses. A scoping review was performed using the PubMed, OVID Medline and Scopus databases.

Results

Four of 150 patients (2.8%) developed AO and reported extreme pain which began 2–3 days after removal, lasted 2 days after onset, and were all associated with the non‐surgical removal of lower first permanent molar teeth. All patients who developed AO were female and aged between 9 and 10 years old. Mandibular sockets were significantly associated with development of AO (p = 0.026).

Conclusions

Despite the belief that AO rarely manifests in children, the incidence of paediatric AO in this study is in line with that of AO found in the adult literature. The literature is inconsistent and conflicting regarding current understanding of AO. As far as possible, an atraumatic approach to exodontia should be adopted. We have proposed four underlying concepts which may benefit from future research given the paucity of research exclusively into dry socket in children and adolescents.
Retrieving a disrupted gene encoding phospholipase A for fibre enhancement in allotetraploid cultivated cotton
Authors: Fang Lei , Zhang Zhiyuan , Zhao Ting , Zhou Na , Mei Huan , Huang Xingqi , Wang Fang , Si Zhanfeng , Han Zegang , Lu Shan , Hu Yan , Guan Xueying , Zhang Tianzhen
Published: May 2022

After polyploidization originated from one interspecific hybridization event in Gossypium, Gossypium barbadense evolved to produce extra‐long staple fibres than Gossypium hirsutum (Upland cotton), which produces a higher fibre yield. The genomic diversity between G. barbadense and G. hirsutum thus provides a genetic basis for fibre trait variation. Recently, rapid accumulation of gene disruption or deleterious mutation was reported in allotetraploid cotton genomes, with unknown impacts on fibre traits. Here, we identified gene disruptions in allotetraploid G. hirsutum (18.14%) and G. barbadense (17.38%) through comparison with their presumed diploid progenitors. Relative to conserved genes, these disrupted genes exhibited faster evolution rate, lower expression level and altered gene co‐expression networks. Within a module regulating fibre elongation, a hub gene experienced gene disruption in G. hirsutum after polyploidization, with a 2‐bp deletion in the coding region of GhNPLA1D introducing early termination of translation. This deletion was observed in all of the 34 G. hirsutum landraces and 36 G. hirsutum cultivars, but not in 96% of 57 G. barbadense accessions. Retrieving the disrupted gene GhNPLA1D using its homoeolog GhNPLA1A achieved longer fibre length in G. hirsutum. Further enzyme activity and lipids analysis confirmed that GhNPLA1A encodes a typical phospholipase A and promotes cotton fibre elongation via elevating intracellular levels of linolenic acid and 34:3 phosphatidylinositol. Our work opens a strategy for identifying disrupted genes and retrieving their functions in ways that can provide valuable resources for accelerating fibre trait enhancement in cotton breeding.
Actual incidence of severe neonatal hypoglycemia in non‐risk term neonates: A 10 year survey of all cases in Toyama Prefecture, Japan
Authors: Futatani Takeshi , Shimao Ayako , Ina Shihomi , Higashiyama Hiroyuki , Hatasaki Kiyoshi , Makimoto Masami , Yoshida Taketoshi , Imamura Hiroaki , Ogawa Jiro , Watanabe Kazuhiro , Konishi Michio
Published: May 2022

Background

Severe neonatal hypoglycemia may cause irreversible neurological sequelae. Although blood glucose (BG) screening in term neonates without risk factors for hypoglycemia (non‐risk neonates) is not recommended in the current guidelines, severe hypoglycemia can occur in such neonates. To evaluate the necessity of BG screening in non‐risk neonates, it is important to determine the accurate incidence of severe hypoglycemia in those neonates.

Methods

We conducted a 10 year survey of all normal‐weight term neonates diagnosed with severe neonatal hypoglycemia who were treated at secondary‐ and tertiary‐level neonatal centers in Toyama Prefecture, Japan, between January 2011 and December 2020.

Results

During the study period, 11 cases of severe neonatal hypoglycemia (six of which occurred in non‐risk neonates) were identified. The overall incidence of severe hypoglycemia was 1 in 5,827 normal‐weight term births, and the incidence in non‐risk neonates was 1 in 10 682 normal‐weight term births. All of the cases in non‐risk neonates were diagnosed as hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia.

Conclusions

This is the first population‐based study to have identified the actual incidence of severe pathological neonatal hypoglycemia in non‐risk neonates. The incidence was not low compared with those of the newborn screening disorders, justifying the necessity of BG screening even in non‐risk neonates.
Liver transplantation in an infant with cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis, cholestasis, and rapid evolution of liver failure
Authors: Pietrobattista Andrea , Spada Marco , Candusso Manila , Boenzi Sara , Dionisi‐Vici Carlo , Francalanci Paola , Morrone Amelia , Ferri Lorenzo , Indolfi Giuseppe , Agolini Emanuele , Giordano Giuseppe , Monti Lidia , Maggiore Giuseppe , Knisely A. S.
Published: May 2022

Background

Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX) is a disorder of bile acid (BA) metabolism due to biallelic mutations in CYP27A1. The deposition of cholesterol and cholestanol in multiple tissues results, manifesting as neurologic disease in adults or older children. Neonatal cholestasis (NC) as a presentation of CTX is rare; it may self‐resolve or persist, evolving to require liver transplantation (LT).

Methods

We present in the context of similar reports an instance of CTX manifest as NC and requiring LT.

Results

A girl aged 4mo was evaluated for NC with normal serum gamma‐glutamyl transpeptidase activity. An extensive diagnostic work‐up, including liver biopsy, identified no etiology. Rapid progression to end‐stage liver disease required LT aged 5mo. The explanted liver showed hepatocyte loss and micronodular cirrhosis. Bile salt export pump (BSEP), encoded by ABCB11, was not demonstrable immunohistochemically. Both severe ABCB11 disease and NR1H4 disease—NR1H4 encodes farsenoid‐X receptor, necessary for ABCB11 transcription—were considered. However, selected liver disorder panel sequencing and mass‐spectrometry urinary BA profiling identified CTX, with homozygosity for the predictedly pathogenic CYP27A1 variant c.646G > C p.(Ala216Pro). Variation in other genes associated with intrahepatic cholestasis was not detected. Immunohistochemical study of the liver‐biopsy specimen found marked deficiency of CYP27A1 expression; BSEP expression was unremarkable. Aged 2y, the girl is free from neurologic disease.

Conclusions

Bile acid synthesis disorders should be routinely included in the NC/“neonatal hepatitis” work‐up. The mutually supportive triple approach of BA profiling, immunohistochemical study, and genetic analysis may optimally address diagnosis in CTX, a treatable disease with widely varying presentation.
Mixotrophic cultivation of microalgae for carotenoid production
Authors: Liaqat Fakhra , Khazi Mahammed Ilyas , Bahadar Ali , He Lu , Aslam Ayesha , Liaquat Rabia , Agathos Spiros N. , Li Jian
Published: May 2022

The intrinsic ability of microalgae to accumulate high amounts of carotenoids has made them the preferred aquatic organisms of biotechnological exploration for carotenoid production. To continuously innovate and modify microalgal bioprocesses, aquaculture scientists have been working hard for the past decades in a forward‐looking way, and mixotrophic cultivation of microalgae is deemed as a promising strategy to decrease production cost. This review is intended to summarise the recent research advancement of carotenoids production from mixotrophically cultivated microalgae, starting from the structure, biosynthesis, physiological roles and applications of carotenoids and followed by the production processes both currently established and under development. Most importantly, the microalgal physiology of mixotrophic cultivation is reviewed in depth both in general and specifically for the most studied species, and the prospects of commercially viable mixotrophic microalgal processes for carotenoid production along with the insight of future research are of course discussed. Finally, we conclude that mixotrophy might be a promising strategy for large‐scale cultivation of microalgae to produce carotenoids although some technical obstacles need to be overcome.
The use of non‐vitamin K oral anticoagulants in dialysis patients—A systematic review
Authors: Chandrasegaram Agitha , Peters Christian Daugaard
Published: May 2022

Non‐vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are used for prevention of thromboembolic events, but their use in dialysis patients is debatable. This study investigated the available evidence for the use of NOACs in dialysis patients. Online databases were systematically searched for eligible studies including pharmacokinetic (PK) studies, cohort studies, and randomized control trials (RCTs) comparing NOAC with vitamin K antagonist (VKA) or no anticoagulant treatment. Newcastle Ottawa Scale and Cochrane Risk of bias tool were used for quality assessment. Twenty studies were identified (nine PK studies, two RCTs, and nine cohort studies). Most of the studies investigated apixaban or rivaroxaban. In dialysis patients, less accumulation was reported with apixaban and rivaroxaban compared to dabigatran and edoxaban. PK studies indicate that high dose apixaban or rivaroxaban should be avoided. The two RCTs (rivaroxaban/apixaban vs. VKA) were small and underpowered regarding stroke and bleeding outcomes. Most cohort studies found apixaban superior to VKA, whereas comparison of rivaroxaban with VKA yielded conflicting results. Cohort studies comparing apixaban high dose (5 mg) with low dose (2.5 mg) twice daily suggest a lower risk of stroke with high dose but also a higher risk of bleeding with high dose. Apixaban versus no anticoagulation was compared in one cohort study and did not lower the risk of stroke compared with non‐treated regardless of apixaban dosage. Widespread use of NOACs in dialysis patients is limited by adequately sized RCTs. Available evidence suggests a potential for use of apixaban and rivaroxaban in reduced dose.
Agents of sustainability: How horses and people co‐create, enact and embed the good life in rural places
Authors: Wadham Helen , Wallace Carrianne , Furtado Tamzin
Published: May 2022

Notions of the good life are often strongly linked to rurality. Existing conceptualisations tend towards an anthropocentric and individualised approach centred on personal wealth, status and happiness. In contrast, this article reframes the good life as an interspecies endeavur, which embeds people and animals alike by recognising their interdependent relational configurations within the wider natural‐social environment. Specifically, we bring insights from the concept of buen vivir to bear on research among people who live alongside their horses in rural areas of the UK. We find that horses enhance, enable and mediate people's understanding and experience of the rural good life. In contrast to popular and scholarly conceptions that emphasise privilege and leisure, the interspecies iteration that emerges is characterised by hard work, collaboration and purposeful active learning. This has profound implications in turn for our understanding and experience of sustainability, as these interspecies relations lead participants into a more active stewardship of both the immediate and wider environment.
The clinical application of transperineal ultrasound in urogynaecology
Authors: Retief Francois , Paterson Frances , Jagiellowicz Jakub , Swart Paul , Abdool Zeelha , Dietz Hans Peter
Published: May 2022

Key content

Transperineal ultrasound allows reproducible imaging of pelvic floor conditions that aids in the thorough assessment required to diagnose and treat urogynaecological conditions.

Views that can be obtained include two‐dimensional (2D) sagittal views of the bladder neck, urethra and pelvic floor; 2D coronal views of the anal canal; and three‐dimensional (3D) or four‐dimensional (4D) views of the genital hiatus and anal canal.

This allows assessment of the post‐void residual volumes, detrusor wall thickness and dynamic assessment of the urethral morphology.

Ultrasonographic assessment enables accurate information about maternal birth trauma to be ascertained, including levator ani muscle avulsion and obstetric anal sphincter injury.

Transperineal ultrasound can be used to identify and assess previously implanted vaginal mesh and midurethral slings.

Learning objectives

To understand the role of ultrasound in clinical urogynaecology practice, including the assessment of slings and meshes.

To know the ultrasound probes, techniques and views used to image the pelvic floor and anal sphincters by transperineal ultrasound.

To describe assessment of the lower urinary tract, pelvic organ prolapse and obstetric anal sphincter injury using ultrasound.

Ethical issues

Thorough assessment of the pelvic floor is mandatory against the background of technological advances in the investigation of pelvic floor dysfunction.

As a common and major complication of childbirth, maternal birth trauma must be assessed fully to support primary and secondary prevention.

Thorough assessment must underlie the use of mesh implants, and dealing with sling and mesh complications is enhanced by imaging.
Outcome of dogs treated with chemotherapy for mesothelioma: A retrospective clinical study on 40 cases and a literature review
Authors: Lajoinie Mathilde , Chavalle Thomas , Floch Franck , Sayag David , Lanore Didier , Ponce Frédérique , Chamel Gabriel
Published: May 2022

Mesothelioma is an uncommon cancer in dogs for which there is no established standard of care. Chemotherapy is often suggested despite no definitive proof of efficacy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of chemotherapy on survival of dogs with mesothelioma. A retrospective multicentric study was carried out. To be included, dogs needed to present an evocative clinical evolution and a morphological diagnosis of mesothelioma. Exclusion of other cause of effusion and complete clinical follow‐up were also required. Fourty dogs were included, 27 received chemotherapy (group 1) and 13 did not (group 2). Groups were heterogeneous regarding the proportion of animals undergoing surgery as part of their treatment (16 in group 1, 2 in group 2;p = .016) and homogeneous otherwise. Univariate analysis showed that dogs from group 1 survived significantly longer than dogs from group 2 (MST: 366 vs. 74 days;p < .001). Complete resolution of effusion after the first chemotherapy administration positively correlated with survival in group 1 (MST: 415 vs. 160 days;p < .01). All other variable tested had no significant impact on survival in univariate analysis, but dogs undergoing surgery and dogs having serous membranes' modification at medical imaging tended to survive longer. Multivariate analysis confirmed that chemotherapy was the sole variable independently associated with survival in our study (odds ratio 5.57–6.12;p < .01).
Dynamics and collisions of magnetized particles around charged black holes in Einstein–Maxwell-scalar theory
Authors: Zahid Muhammad , Rayimbaev Javlon , Khan Saeed Ullah , Ren Jingli , Ahmedov Saidmuhammad , Ibragimov Inomjon
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we aim to investigate the dynamics of magnetized particles around magnetically and electrically charged static black holes (BHs) in Einstein–Maxwell-scalar theory. First, we explore the possible values of EMS parameters for which the spacetime geometry represents a BH spacetime. Since there is no interaction between the electric field of the electrically charged BH and the proper magnetic field of the magnetized test particle. Therefore, we consider BH immersed in an external asymptotically uniform magnetic field. We explore the properties of an external magnetic field around a charged EMS BH. Moreover, we also explored the effects of BH charge and EMS theory parameters on particle’s energy and angular momentum in the circular stable orbits, together with the radius of innermost stable circular orbits. All the obtained results are compared with the acquired results of the Reissner–Nordström BH. Finally, we investigate the behaviour of the center of mass energy of colliding magnetized and electrically charged particles around the EMS BH.
Low scale Dirac leptogenesis and dark matter with observable $$\Delta N_{\mathrm{eff}}$$
Authors: Mahanta Devabrat , Borah Debasish
Published: May 2022

We propose a gauged $$B-L$$

B
-
L

extension of the standard model (SM) where light neutrinos are of Dirac type by virtue of tiny Yukawa couplings. To achieve leptogenesis, we include additional heavy Majorana fermions without introducing any $$B-L$$

B
-
L

violation by two units. An additional scalar doublet with appropriate $$B-L$$

B
-
L

charge can allow such heavy fermion coupling with SM leptons so that out-of-equilibrium decay of the former can lead to generation of lepton asymmetry. Due to the $$B-L$$

B
-
L

gauge interactions of the decaying fermion, the criteria of successful Dirac leptogenesis can also constrain the gauge sector couplings. The same $$B-L$$

B
-
L

gauge sector parameter space can also be constrained from dark matter requirements if the latter is assumed to consist of SM singlet particles with non-zero $$B-L$$

B
-
L

charges, which also keep the model anomaly free. The same $$B-L$$

B
-
L

gauge interactions also lead to additional thermalised relativistic degrees of freedom $$\Delta N_{\mathrm{eff}}$$

Δ

N
eff

from light Dirac neutrinos which are tightly constrained by Planck 2018 data. While there exists parameter space from the criteria of successful leptogenesis, dark matter and $$\Delta N_{\mathrm{eff}}$$

Δ

N
eff

even after incorporating the latest collider bounds, the currently allowed parameter space can be probed by future measurements of $$\Delta N_{\mathrm{eff}}$$

Δ

N
eff

.
Stabilized convection in a ternary mixture with two Soret coefficients of opposite sign
Authors: García-Fernández Loreto , Bataller Henri , Fruton Paul , Giraudet Cédric , Vailati Alberto , Croccolo Fabrizio
Published: May 2022

We performed ground-based experiments on the sample polystyrene–toluene–cyclohexane in order to complement the experimental activities in microgravity conditions related to the ESA projects DCMIX4 and Giant Fluctuations. After applying a stabilizing thermal gradient by heating from above a layer of the fluid mixture, we studied over many hours the density variations in the bidimensional horizontal field by means of a Shadowgraph optical setup. The resulting images evidence the appearance of convective instability after a diffusive time associated with the binary molecular solvent consisting of toluene and cyclohexane, confirming the negative sign of the Soret coefficient of this mixture. After a larger diffusive time related to mass diffusion of the polystyrene in the binary solvent, convection was suppressed by the increasing stabilizing density gradient originated by the Soret-induced concentration gradient of the polymer. This is compatible with a positive sign of the Soret coefficient of the polymer in the binary solvent.

Graphic Abstract
A semi-passive beam dilution system for the FCC-ee collider
Authors: Krainer Alexander , Bartmann Wolfgang , Calviani Marco , Dutheil Yann , Lechner Anton , Perillo Marcone Antonio , Ogur Salim , Ramjiawan Rebecca
Published: May 2022

The operation modes for the proposed FCC-ee collider foresee a very small beam spot size and stored beam energies of up to 20.6 MJ in Z production. This necessitates a dedicated beam dumping system. To reduce the complexity of the system as well as to minimize the required space, an optimized, semi-passive system has been designed and is presented here. The beam dilution is done with a defocusing triplet structure, followed by passive beam diluter elements (spoilers). This greatly reduces the risk of possible dilution failure scenarios compared to an active dilution kicker-magnet system. The dump core itself is located ${\sim}70~\text{m}$
∼
70

m
downstream of the spoilers and is designed following the experience gained from the LHC dump.

The dilution performance as well as the interaction effects responsible for the energy deposited in the spoiler, are directly related to the radiation length and the dimension of the device in beam direction. Materials for these spoilers have been studied extensively and key requirements have been identified using both Monte Carlo shower simulations and thermo-mechanical Finite Element Analysis. Even though the maximum temperature reached in the spoilers is well within the working temperature range of the material, the induced mechanical stresses can lead to material failure. Thermo-mechanical simulations have shown that the transversal beam shape plays a key role in the magnitude of mechanical stresses as a result of the beam impact and the abrupt temperature change. This problem is addressed in this paper and an optimized solution is presented.
Bilayers and quasi-3D stacks of Jain series fractional quantum Hall states from parton construction
Authors: Banerjee Aditya
Published: May 2022

We present a description of bilayers and quasi-three-dimensional stacks of Jain series of fractional quantum Hall states using their parton descriptions, and argue for them as candidate states when the interlayer coupling is comparable to the intralayer Coulomb interaction. For the bilayers, a K-matrix theory is presented and shown to be different from decoupled or bonded layers. The quasi-3D systems have gapless gauge excitations and gapped partons that may be able to move about in the 3D, thus presenting a toy model for quantum Hall-like states in three dimensions.
Investigation on the fretting wear behavior of titanium alloy under different atmospheres by an in situ XPS spectrometry
Authors: Cheng Xixi , Wei Xuejiao , Li Hao , Wei Huaizheng , Xu Xiaojun , Sheng Liangliang , Zhu Minhao
Published: May 2022

In this paper, a systematic experimental investigation concerning the fretting wear behavior of Ti6Al4V titanium alloy under the nitrogen, argon and air atmospheres is reported. An in-situ XPS analysis test combined with a self-designed high precision fretting wear tester was employed to probe the tribo-chemical state. The fretting wear volume and fretting wear mechanism under different atmospheres were analyzed and the correlations of tribo-chemical state with the fretting wear behavior were discussed. Results suggest that the working atmosphere has a significant effect in determining the formation of tribo-chemical products on the worn scars and then the fretting wear resistance depending on fretting run regimes. In the PSR, the working atmosphere has little effect on the tribo-chemical reaction and then the fretting wear. While in MFR, the worn scars under the nitrogen atmosphere show the highest fretting wear volume but the lowest fretting wear volume under the argon atmosphere. In SR, Ti6Al4V titanium alloy under the nitrogen and argon atmosphere presents a much high fretting wear volume, which may be due to the formation of titanium nitrides and Ti2O3 and TiO, respectively. In contrast, under the air atmosphere, Ti6Al4V titanium alloy presents the lowest fretting wear volume, which could be attributed to the protective effect of a compacted TiO2 oxidized film.
OPTIMAL INVESTMENT AND CONTINGENT CLAIM VALUATION WITH EXPONENTIAL DISUTILITY UNDER PROPORTIONAL TRANSACTION COSTS
Authors: ROUX ALET , XU ZHIKANG
Published: May 2022

We consider indifference pricing of contingent claims consisting of payment flows in a discrete-time model with proportional transaction costs and under exponential disutility. This setting covers utility maximization of terminal wealth as a special case. A dual representation is obtained for the associated disutility minimization problem, together with a dynamic procedure for solving it. This leads to efficient and convergent numerical procedures for indifference pricing, optimal trading strategies and shadow prices that apply to a wide range of payoffs, a large range of time steps and all magnitudes of transaction costs.