bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Randomised clinical trial: Psychological intervention improves work productivity and daily activity by reducing abdominal pain and fatigue in Crohn's disease
Authors: Regev Shirley , Schwartz Doron , Sarid Orly , Goren Ganit , Slonim‐Nevo Vered , Friger Michael , Sergienko Ruslan , Greenberg Dan , Monsonego Alon , Nemirovsky Anna , Odes Shmuel
Published: February 2023

Background

Chronic abdominal pain and fatigue are characteristics of Crohn's disease (CD) and contribute to functional impairments.

Aims

To examine whether CD‐tailored cognitive‐behavioural and mindfulness intervention (COBMINDEX) is effective in reducing abdominal pain and fatigue in patients with CD and whether changes in abdominal pain and fatigue mediate any beneficial effects of COBMINDEX on impairments in work productivity and daily activities.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of a parallel‐group multicentre randomised controlled trial. Patients with mild‐to‐moderate CD (n = 142) were randomised into either intervention group receiving COBMINDEX, or control group receiving treatment‐as‐usual for 3 months followed by COBMINDEX. Complete data were collected from 120 patients (34.0 ± 10.7 years, 62.5% female, intervention = 60, control = 60). Analysis of covariance assessed group differences in 3‐month follow‐up scores, controlling for baseline scores. Multiple parallel mediation analysis assessed the proposed mechanisms for the entire sample.

Results

The intervention group demonstrated significantly lower levels of abdominal pain (F = 17.46, p < 0.001, η2p = 0.13), fatigue (F = 7.26, p = 0.008, η2p = 0.06) and impairments at work (F = 4.82, p = 0.032, η2p = 0.07) and daily activities (F = 6.26, p = 0.014, η2p = 0.05), compared with treatment‐as‐usual. Moreover, changes in abdominal pain and fatigue significantly mediated the beneficial effects of COBMINDEX on patients' work productivity (b = −9.90, SE = 2.86, 95% CI: −16.11 to −4.94) and daily activities (b = −9.65, SE = 1.91, 95% CI: −13.77 to 6.35), independent of changes in disease activity.

Conclusions

COBMINDEX is effective at reducing abdominal pain and fatigue in patients with CD, which in turn leads to improvement in functioning. Clinicians should incorporate screening for severe abdominal pain and fatigue and consider offering cognitive‐behavioural and mindfulness training.

ClinicalTrials.gov, Number: NCT05085925. Ministry of Health in Israel (https://my.health.gov.il/CliniTrials/Pages/MOH_2020‐02‐24_008721.aspx).
Biological features and outcome of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma associated with hepatitis C virus in elderly patients: Results of the prospective ‘Elderly Project’ by the Fondazione Italiana Linfomi
Authors: Arcari Annalisa , Tabanelli Valentina , Merli Francesco , Marcheselli Luigi , Merli Michele , Balzarotti Monica , Zilioli Vittorio Ruggero , Fabbri Alberto , Cavallo Federica , Casaluci Gloria Margiotta , Tucci Alessandra , Puccini Benedetta , Pennese Elsa , Di Rocco Alice , Zanni Manuela , Flenghi Leonardo , Gini Guido , Sartori Roberto , Chiappella Annalisa , Usai Sara Veronica , Tani Monica , Marino Dario , Arcaini Luca , Vallisa Daniele , Spina Michele
Published: February 2023

Up to 10%–15% of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) are related to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, in particular in elderly patients. The Fondazione Italiana Linfomi has recently published a multicentre prospective observational study, the ‘Elderly Project’, on the outcome of DLBCL in patients aged ≥65 years, evaluated using a simplified comprehensive geriatric assessment. The aim of this study was to compare biological and clinical features of HCV positive (HCV+) with HCV negative (HCV−) cases. A total of 89 HCV+ patients were identified out of 1095 evaluated for HCV serology (8.1%). The HCV+ patients were older, less fit, and had frequent extranodal involvement. The cell‐of‐origin determination by Nanostring showed that HCV+ cases less frequently had an activated B‐cell profile compared to HCV− patients (18% vs. 43%). In all, 86% of HCV+ patients received rituximab‐cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine (Oncovin) and prednisone (R‐CHOP)‐like immunochemotherapy. Grade 3–4 liver toxicity occurred in 3% of cases. Among centrally reviewed cases confirmed as DLBCL, the 3‐year overall survival of HCV+ patients was very similar to HCV− (63% vs. 61%, p = 0.926). In all, 20 HCV+ patients were treated with direct‐acting antiviral agents (DAAs), with good tolerance and sustained virological response in all cases. The 3‐year progression‐free survival for this subgroup was excellent (77%), suggesting DAAs' possible role in reducing the risk of relapse by eliminating the viral trigger.
Landsystem analysis of a tropical moraine‐dammed supraglacial lake, Llaca Lake, Cordillera Blanca, Perú
Authors: Narro Pérez Rodrigo Alberto , Eyles Carolyn H. , Lee Rebecca E. , Dàvila Röller Luzmila , Maclachlan John C.
Published: February 2023

Tropical glaciers of the Cordillera Blanca, Perú are rapidly thinning and retreating as a result of climate warming. The retreat of these glaciers along narrow linear bedrock valleys has increased the number and size of moraine‐dammed glacial lakes formed in the valleys. This study aims to identify the geomorphological and sedimentological characteristics of an enlarging moraine‐dammed supraglacial lake (Llaca Lake) in the Cordillera Blanca. Field‐based sedimentological observations and geomorphological mapping were combined with remotely sensed data and a photogrammetric model derived from aerial surveys by an uncrewed aerial vehicle to identify landform‐sediment assemblages. The geomorphological and sedimentological characteristics of Llaca Lake are synthesized into three landsystem zones: Zone 1: distal portions of Llaca Lake and the latero‐frontal moraine; Zone 2: the central zone of ice‐cored hummocks; and Zone 3: the active glacier margin. These zones are differentiated based on the spatial distribution of landforms, sediments, and active geomorphological processes. This is the first study to describe the landform‐sediment assemblages in a tropical moraine‐dammed supraglacial lake system and provides a framework for further landsystem element analysis of these growing supraglacial lakes in rapidly deglaciating high‐altitude environments.
Postprandial triglycerides and fibroblast growth factor 19 as potential screening tools for paediatric non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Sciarrillo Christina M. , Short Kevin R. , Keirns Bryant H. , Elliott Destinee C. , Clarke Stephen L. , Palle Sirish , Emerson Sam R.
Published: February 2023

Background

Better screening tools for paediatric NAFLD are needed. We tested the hypothesis that the postprandial triglyceride (TG) and fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) response to an abbreviated fat tolerance test (AFTT) could differentiate adolescents with NAFLD from peers with obesity and normal weight.

Methods

Fifteen controls with normal weight (NW), 13 controls with obesity (OB) and 9 patients with NAFLD completed an AFTT. Following an overnight fast, participants consumed a high‐fat meal. TG and FGF19 were measured at baseline and 4 h post‐meal. Liver steatosis and fibrosis were measured via Fibroscan.

Results

Fasting TG and FGF19 did not differ among groups; 4 h TG in the NAFLD and OB groups were greater (197 ± 69 mg/dL; 157 ± 72 mg/dL, respectively) than NW (105 ± 45 mg/dL; p < 0.05) and did not differ from one another. Within the entire cohort, 4 h TG were stratified by high and low steatosis. Adolescents with high steatosis had 98% greater 4 h TG than adolescents with low steatosis. 4 h FGF19, but not fasting FGF19, was higher in children with low steatosis compared with high steatosis (p < 0.05). Using area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC), the only biochemical outcome with diagnostic accuracy for NAFLD was 4 h TG (0.77 [95% CI: 0.60–0.94; p = 0.02]).

Conclusions

The postprandial TG response is increased in adolescents with obesity with hepatic steatosis, with or without NAFLD. Our preliminary analysis demonstrates 4 h TG differentiate patients with NAFLD from those without, supporting a role for the AFTT as a screening tool for paediatric NAFLD.
Comparison between neonatal outcomes of labor and delivery with labor neuraxial analgesia and without analgesia: A propensity score‐matched study
Authors: Watanabe Kaede , Sakamaki Daisuke , Shiko Yuki , Kawasaki Yohei , Noguchi Shohei , Mazda Yusuke
Published: February 2023

Aim

This single‐center observational study aimed to investigate the association between labor neuraxial analgesia (LNA) and neonatal outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study at a tertiary perinatal center and included all vaginal deliveries performed between November 2015 and December 2021. Obstetric and neonatal outcomes were compared between deliveries with LNA (LNA group) and without analgesia (control group). Propensity score (PS) matching was used for statistical analysis.

Results

We included 2343 singleton deliveries performed in 1367 nulliparous and 976 multiparous women, in whom LNA was induced in 352 and 178 deliveries, respectively. After PS matching, the nulliparous LNA group had a significantly higher incidence of Apgar scores <7 at 1 (7.1% vs. 3.6%, p = 0.0139) and 5 min (2.3% vs. 0.7%, p = 0.0397) and meconium staining (29.8% vs. 23.2%, p = 0.0272) than the nulliparous control group. Other neonatal outcomes, including umbilical artery pH and neonatal intensive care unit admission rate, were comparable between the nulliparous LNA and control groups. No significant differences in neonatal outcomes were seen in multiparous women. Regarding fetal heart rate abnormalities, severe late deceleration (4.8% vs. 1.7%, p = 0.0036) and severe prolonged deceleration (17.0% vs. 11.9%, p = 0.0224) were more common in the nulliparous LNA group than in the nulliparous control group, and the multiparous LNA group exhibited more severe variable deceleration (21.3% vs. 14.3%, p = 0.0485) than the multiparous control group.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that LNA is associated with short‐term adverse neonatal and obstetric outcomes in vaginal deliveries. LNA should be performed with precautionary measures and adequate medical resources.
Should we talk of “extinction society”? A socio‐cultural reading
Authors: Pietropaoli Matteo
Published: February 2023

In this work, we intend to present a reading of current society as the extinction society. Extinction society here means the characterization, both social and individual, of a highly developed reality, especially in terms of personal freedom, unable to face global collective threats, first of all the climate disaster. This involves the risk, within a few generations, of the extinction of both the type of society that at least in the West we have been accustomed to for a few hundred years, and in the apocalyptic perspective of the species. The attempt to represent this question is addressed here by referring to some recent authors of cultural studies and sociology, to try and understand the principles of this extinction process. Following the analysis of what is in fact a process of individual liberation, that is, of increasingly advanced individualization, we proceed by looking at the macro‐themes of consumption, politics and psyche. This is in order to understand the possible outcomes of this process and the overall sense of an extinction of the current society if not of the species.
Development and validation of the novel nursing activities in the care of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation‐supported patients scale
Authors: Melnikov Semyon , Itzhakov Shiran , Furmanov Alexander
Published: February 2023

Background

Nurses are members of multidisciplinary teams providing care to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation‐supported patients (ECMO‐SP). There are no valid and reliable measurements available to assess nursing activities in the care of ECMO‐SP.

Aim

To develop and evaluate psychometric properties of a new 27‐item nursing activities in the care of ECMO‐SP scale.

Study Design

A convenience sample was recruited of 76 registered nurses (mean age 41.3 ± 8.7; 71% female) in Israel. The nurses participated in an online survey with software Qualtrics, between March and June 2022. Content and construct validity, as well as internal consistency of the scale were evaluated. The participants also completed the perceived knowledge and skills in the treatment of ECMO‐SP scale. The correlations between nursing activities in the care of ECMO‐SP and ECMO knowledge were examined using Pearson's correlation.

Results

Exploratory factor analysis extracted four factors, and seven items were excluded from the 27‐item scale making it a 20‐item scale in its final form. Internal consistency was acceptable for the total scale (α = 0.84) and the four subscales: Factor 1: Nursing care of ECMO‐SP not related to the ECMO device (α = 0.90), Factor 2: Activities on ECMO device in emergency (α = 0.82), Factor 3: ECMO device calibrating and monitoring (α = 0.72), and Factor 4: Medication and blood administration through ECMO device (α = 0.73). When examined in confirmatory factor analysis, the 20‐item scale yielded acceptable fit indices. A positive correlation was found between perceived ECMO knowledge and all four factors of the nursing activities in the Care of ECMO‐SP scale.

Conclusions

The 20‐item scale examining nursing activities in the care of ECMO‐SP is ready for use for clinical, educational, and research purposes.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Because there are still no standards for nursing care of ECMO‐SP and no agreed quality indicators, this novel scale may help in building such standards and quality indicators.
Combined genome‐wide association study and epistasis analysis reveal multifaceted genetic architectures of plant height in Asian cultivated rice
Authors: Hong Jun , Su Su , Wang Li , Bai Shaoxing , Xu Jianlong , Li Zhikang , Betts Natalie , Liang Wanqi , Wang Wensheng , Shi Jianxin , Zhang Dabing
Published: February 2023

Plant height (PH) in rice (Oryza sativa) is an important trait for its adaptation and agricultural performance. Discovery of thesemi‐dwarf1(SD1) mutation initiated the Green Revolution, boosting rice yield and fitness, but the underlying genetic regulation of PH in rice remains largely unknown. Here, we performed genome‐wide association study (GWAS) and identified 12 non‐repetitive QTL/genes regulating PH variation in 619 Asian cultivated rice accessions. One of these was anSD1structural variant, not normally detected in standard GWAS analyses. Given the strong effect ofSD1on PH, we also divided 619 accessions into subgroups harbouring distinctSD1haplotypes, and found a further 85 QTL/genes for PH, revealing genetic heterogeneity that may be missed by analysing a broad, diverse population. Moreover, we uncovered two epistatic interaction networks of PH‐associated QTL/genes in thejaponica(Geng)‐dominantSD1NIPsubgroup. In one of them, the hub QTL/geneqphSN1.4/GAMYBinteracted withqphSN3.1/OsINO80,qphSN3.4/HD16/EL1,qphSN6.2/LOC_Os06g11130, andqphSN10.2/MADS56. Sequence variations inGAMYBandMADS56were associated with their expression levels and PH variations, and MADS56 was shown to physically interact with MADS57 to coregulate expression of gibberellin (GA) metabolic genesOsGA2ox3andElongated Uppermost Internode1(EUI1). Our study uncovered the multifaceted genetic architectures of rice PH, and provided novel and abundant genetic resources for breeding semi‐dwarf rice and new candidates for further mechanistic studies on regulation of PH in rice.
Kinetostatic Optimization for Kinematic Redundancy Planning of Nimbl’Bot Robot
Authors: Ginnante Angelica , Caro Stéphane , Simetti Enrico , Leborne François
Published: February 2023

In manufacturing industry, computer numerical control (CNC) machines are often preferred over industrial serial robots (ISR) for machining tasks. Indeed, CNC machines offer high positioning accuracy, which leads to slight dimensional deviation on the final product. However, these machines have a restricted workspace generating limitations in the machining work. Conversely, ISR are typically characterized by a larger workspace. ISR have already shown satisfactory performance in tasks like polishing, grinding, and deburring. This paper proposes a kinematic redundant robot composed of a novel two degrees-of-freedom mechanism with a closed kinematic chain. After describing a task-priority inverse kinematic control framework used for joint trajectory planning exploiting the robot kinematic redundancy, the paper analyses the kinetostatic performance of this robot depending on the considered control tasks. Moreover, two kinetostatic tasks are introduced and employed to improve the robot performance. Simulation results show how the robot better performs when the optimization tasks are active.
Recent advances toward mesoscopic quantum optomechanics
Authors: Croquette M. , Deléglise S. , Kawasaki T. , Komori K. , Kuribayashi M. , Lartaux-Vollard A. , Matsumoto N. , Michimura Y. , Andia M. , Aritomi N. , Braive R. , Briant T. , Briaudeau S. , Cataño-Lopez S. B. , Chua S. , Degallaix J. , Fujimoto M. , Gerashchenko K. , Glotin F. , Gruning P. , Harada K. , Heidmann A. , Hofman D. , Jacquet P.-E. , Jacqmin T. , Kozlova O. , Leroy N. , Loriette V. , Loubar F. , Martel T. , Metzdorff R. , Michel C. , Mikami A. , Najera L. , Neuhaus L. , Otabe S. , Pinard L. , Suzuki K. , Takahashi H. , Takeda K. , Tominaga Y. , van de Walle A. , Yamamoto N. , Somiya K. , Cohadon P.-F.
Published: February 2023

We present a number of approaches, currently in experimental development in our research groups, toward the general problem of macroscopic quantum mechanics, i.e., manifestations of quantum noise and quantum fluctations with macroscopic (engineered and microfabricated by man) mechanical systems. Discussed experiments include a pendulum, a torsion pendulum, a ng-scale phononic-crystal silicon nitride membrane, a μ g-scale quartz resonator, and mg-scale mirrors for optical levitation. We also discuss relevant applications to quantum thermometry with optomechanical systems and the use of squeezed light to probe displacements beyond conventional quantum limits.
Supplemental Material: Gold-mineralized diorite beneath the Linglong ore field, North China craton: New insights into the origin of decratonization-related gold deposits
Authors: Li Zhan-Ke , et al.
Published: February 2023

One text file (analytical methods), three figures, and twelve Excel files.
Soft tissue infection and follow-up for an unsheltered patient: the role of Street Medicine providers in bridging gaps in care
Authors: Rasul Taha Faiz , Morgan Orly , Elkhadem Adam , Henderson Armen
Published: February 2023

Street Medicine is a volunteer-run initiative for low-resource healthcare settings. Formed to bridge gaps in care for persons experiencing homelessness, these organisations work to provide preventative medicine through maintenance care and follow-up. However, there are limits to what Street Medicine can accomplish given the geographical radius covered, lack of available transportation options and vulnerable sleeping locations night to night for the patients served. The subject of this case report is a middle-aged Spanish-speaking unsheltered man who began his care with a Street Medicine team. He was unable to attend medical appointments due to relocation, complicating his disease course and resulting in hospital intervention for cellulitis. Post-discharge, he stayed within radius and was treated by the street team. Increased emphasis on the effects of housing insecurity and addressing social determinants of health could prevent deterioration of manageable diseases and should be an area of active interest for Street Medicine team expansion.
Epidemiological features and management of eye burn patients in Wuxi, China
Authors: Lu Zijing , Chu Ting , Yang Zhi-Hui , Xia Xin , Shen Yi-Hui , Chen Jian-Huan , Wang Ji-Hong
Published: February 2023

Background

The current study aimed to analyse epidemiological data on eye burns in Wuxi, China, for the years 2015–2021, and to provide insight into the development of appropriate prevention strategies.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 151 hospitalised patients with eye burns. Data collected included gender, age, the monthly distribution of incidence, cause of eye burn, the site of eye burn, the type of surgery, visual outcome, the length of hospital stay and the cost of hospital admission. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS V.19.0 and Graph Pad Prism V.9.0.

Results

In a total of 151 eye burn patients, 130 were males (86.09%) and 21 were females (13.91%). The proportion of patients classified as grade III was the greatest (46.36%). The average age of our hospitalised patients with eye burns was 43.72 years and the average length of hospital stay was 17 days. The number of injuries was highest in September (14.6%). Among eye burn patients, workers and farmers became the most common occupations (62.91%, 12.58%). The most frequent cause of burns was alkali burns (19.21%), followed by acid burns (16.56%). When admitted to the hospital, patients’ average vision was 0.06, and 49% of them had a poor vision (<0.3, ≥0.05).

Conclusion

With an investigation of 7-year hospitalisation data, the current study provided a fundamental reference for epidemiological features and management of eye burns in Wuxi, China, which could contribute to the development of treatment and prevention strategies.
QI initiative to reduce the number of inpatient falls in an acute hospital Trust
Authors: Boot Michelle , Allison Jennifer , Maguire Jack , O'Driscoll Gemma
Published: February 2023

Inpatient falls are one of the most frequent concerns to patient safety within the acute hospital environment, equating to 1700 falls per year in an 800-bed general hospital. They are predicted to cost approximately £2600 per patient, however, this estimate does not capture the costs and impact that inpatient falls have on the wider health and social care system. It also does not take into the account loss of confidence and delays in functional recovery.

This report shares the learning from a quality improvement (QI) initiative that took place in a District General Hospital (DGH) in the UK. The initiative started in February 2020, was paused November 2020 due to wave 2 of the pandemic and restarted in March 2021. Improvement was achieved in January 2021.

Data for falls within the Trust identified that falls were within common cause variation. A system change was needed to achieve an improvement.

A QI project was commenced with the aim to achieve a 5% reduction in falls per 1000 bed days in a care of the elderly ward.

Two primary drivers were identified: recognising patients at high risk of falls and preventing them from falling. Change ideas to address these primary drivers were tested using Plan Do Study Act (PDSA) cycles. Changes tested included: the development of an assessment tool to identify patients at high risk of falls, use of a wristband to identify patients at high risk of a fall, and increased observation.

Change ideas achieved some success with the process measures but did not achieve an improvement with the outcome measures. A Trust wide change idea relating to the falls prevention service did lead to a sustained improvement in falls reduction.

The barriers to the improvement included changing Trust priorities during the pandemic, and limited opportunities to fully engage the ward-based team with systems thinking and changing mental models.
Multicentre evaluation of anxiety and mood among collegiate student athletes with concussion
Authors: Lumba-Brown Angela , Teramoto Masaru , Zhang Rachel , Aukerman Doug F , Bohr Adam D , Harmon Kimberly , Petron David J , Romano Russ , Poddar Sourav K , Ghajar Jamshid
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Mental health problems are a premorbid and postinjury concern among college student athletes. Clinical phenotypes of anxiety and mood disruption are prevalent following mild traumatic brain injury, including concussion, a common sports injury. This work examined whether concussed student athletes with a history of mental health problems and higher symptoms of anxiety and mood disruption at baseline were more likely to have higher postinjury reports of mood and anxiety as well as prolonged resolution of postconcussive symptoms to near-baseline measures.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of a multi-institutional database of standardised baseline and postinjury assessments among college student athletes. Anxiety/mood evaluation data among varsity college athletes from four institutions over 1 year were measured and compared at baseline and postconcussion recovery using descriptive statistics and multilevel/mixed-effects analysis.

Results

Data from 2248 student athletes were analysed, with 40.6% reporting at least one symptom of anxiety and/or mood disruption at baseline. Of the 150 distinct concussions, 94.7% reported symptoms of anxiety/mood disruption during recovery (recovery time=0–96 days). Higher anxiety/mood scores at baseline were significantly associated with higher scores following concussion (p<0.001). Recovery trajectories of anxiety/mood scores showed different patterns by sex and prolonged recovery.

Conclusion

Symptoms of anxiety and mood disruption are commonat baselineamong college student athletes. These students are at higher risk for symptomatology following injury, representing a screening cohort that may benefit from early counselling. Almost all student athletes will experience symptoms of anxiety and/or mood disruption following concussion.
ELITE: rationale and design of a longitudinal elite athlete, extreme cardiovascular phenotyping, prospective cohort study
Authors: van Hattum Juliette C , Verwijs Sjoerd M , Boekholdt S Matthijs , Groenink Maarten , Planken R Nils , van Randen Adrienne , Nederveen Aart J , Moen Maarten H , Wijne Cornelis A C M , Daems Joelle J N , Velthuis Birgitta K , van de Sande Danny A J , Spee Ruud , de Vries Suzanna T , van der Veen Maurits J , Pinto Yigal M , Wilde Arthur A M , Jorstad Harald T
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The cardiovascular benefits of physical exercise are well-known. However, vigorous exercise has also been associated with adverse cardiac effects. To improve our understanding of cardiovascular adaptation to exercise versus maladaptation and pathology, the limits of adaptation should be firmly established using state-of-the-art diagnostic modalities. We therefore initiated the Evaluation of Lifetime participation in Intensive Top-level sports and Exercise (ELITE) cohort to investigate the longitudinal (beneficial and pathological) cardiovascular effects of intensive elite sports and exercise.

Methods and analysis

ELITE is a prospective, multicentre, longitudinal cohort study. Elite athletes, from the age of sixteen, are recruited in The Netherlands. The primary objective is to determine the association between elite sports and exercise-induced cardiac remodelling, cardiac pathology, and health benefits over time. Secondary objectives include determining and identifying genetic profiles of elite athletes, and how these are associated with cardiac indices. ELITE will collect data from consultations, electrocardiography, echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and training- and injury data. ELITE will also collect blood for biobanking and cardiogenetics. Follow-up will take place at intervals of two to five years, and after the elite athletes’ professional careers have ended. In addition, a subcohort of ELITE has been established to investigate cardiac sequelae following infections associated with myocardial involvement, including SARS-CoV-2. ELITE is a prospective observational study; therefore, analyses will be primarily explorative.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Medical Ethics Review Board of the Amsterdam University Medical Centers (NL71682.018.19). The results of the study will be disseminated by publication in peer-reviewed journals (Netherlands Trial Register number: NL9328).
Characterizations of functions of bounded variation on effect algebras
Authors: Singh Akhilesh Kumar
Published: February 2023

In this paper, the concept of [Formula: see text]-null-additivity on effect algebras is introduced and investigated. Theorems connecting null-additivity and [Formula: see text]-null-additivity are also proved. Further, pseudo-metric generating property is studied and its relation with null–null-additivity is also explored. Some theorems are also obtained as characterizations for functions of bounded variation on effect algebras. Finally, it is shown that limit of every monotone sequence exists for a function of bounded variation defined on effect algebras even if the function is not continuous from above and (or) below.
Impact of NaCl Spray on the Durability of PEMFC Single Cells and Stacks in Marine Environment
Authors: Lamard Marie , Auvity Bruno , Buttin Paul , Rosini Sébastien , Retière Clément
Published: February 2023

The present work investigates the effects of a salt spray injected into the airflow of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) at various time scales and contamination levels, with the long-term objective of identifying the appropriate protection of fuel cells for maritime applications. A dedicated experimental setup generates a sodium chloride (NaCl) mist in the cathode airflow to contaminate single cells and stacks. Constant current density tests led to lifetime shortening with partial recovery after cathode rinsing. Then, Membrane Electrode Assemblies (MEAs) post-mortem characterizations revealed that NaCl was present in the cathode gas diffusion layer, and chlorine reached the catalyst layer for high concentrations. Furthermore, chlorides enhanced current collectors and bipolar plates (BPs) degradation, as corrosion products were identified in MEAs and stack effluents. A sailboat propulsion stack operated 50 h at sea was meanwhile analyzed. As for the laboratory work, chlorine and stainless steel from BPs were found in MEAs, comforting the idea that the marine environment can damage fuel cells. Overall, this study evidences that NaCl effects on PEMFCs not only depend on the concentration but also on the MEA type, plate material, and startup/shutdown procedure.
Modeling How Interface Geometry and Mechanical Stress Affect Li Metal/Solid Electrolyte Current Distributions
Authors: Carmona Eric A. , Albertus Paul
Published: February 2023

We develop a coupled electrochemical-mechanical model to assess the current distributions at Li/single-ion conducting solid ceramic electrolyte interfaces containing a parameterized interfacial geometric asperity, and carefully distinguish between the thermodynamic and kinetic effects of interfacial mechanics on the current distribution. We find that with an elastic-perfectly plastic model for Li metal, and experimentally relevant mechanical initial and boundary conditions, the stress variations along the interface for experimentally relevant stack pressures and interfacial geometries are small (e.g., <1 MPa), resulting in a small or negligible influence of the interfacial mechanical state on the interfacial current distribution for both plating and stripping. However, we find that the current distribution is sensitive to interface geometry, with sharper (i.e., smaller tip radius of curvature) asperities experiencing greater current focusing. In addition, the effect on the current distribution of an identically sized lithium peak vs valley geometry is not the same. These interfacial geometry effects may lead to void formation on both stripping and plating and at both Li peaks and valleys. The presence of high-curvature interface geometry asperities provides an additional perspective on the superior cycling performance of flat, film-based separators (e.g., sputtered LiPON) versus particle-based separators (e.g., polycrystalline LLZO) in some conditions.
Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites and Associated Risk Factors among Diarrheal Patients Attending Negelle Borena General Hospital: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Firdu Zewdineh , Mulatu Kucho
Published: February 2023

Background. In tropical countries, intestinal protozoal parasitic infections are among the common infections causing significant morbidity and mortality. Thus, the present study was conducted to assess the status of intestinal protozoal parasitic infections among diarrheal patients attending Negelle Borena General Hospital and investigate the possible risk factors for the infection. Methods. A case-control study design was employed in the study. The intestinal protozoal parasites were detected using a wet-mount, stool concentration, and modified Ziehl–Neelsen methods. The crude and adjusted odd ratios were considered to identify the associated risk factors for intestinal protozoal parasitic infections among the study participants. Results. The overall status of parasitic infection was 46.88% in cases and 27.08% in the control groups. The most prevalent protozoal infection was Giardia lamblia (9.38%) and followed by Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (6.25%) in the cases. The highest prevalence of the infection was detected in the age groups that varied from 6 to 10 years in cases (71%). The enteric G. lamblia and E. histolytica/dispar were found to be 33.3% and 9.1%, respectively, in the age groups of 6–10 years in cases. Based on sex, 56.50% and 27.30% of protozoal (parasitic) infections were revealed by females in the cases and control groups, respectively, indicating a significant variation (

P
<
0.05

). The education level (illiteracy), absence of toilet usage, no hand washing after toilet and before eating as significant risk factors for patient’s infection with G. lamblia, E. histolytica, and Cryptosporidium spp. (

P
<
0.05

, AOR = 1–14). However, eating raw fruit and vegetables was also found as a major risk factor for E. histolytica (

P
<
0.05

, AOR = 6.2) 40. Moreover, the residence of the patients was also indicated as a plus risk factors for the infection to be occurred by Cryptosporidium spp. in the study participants (

P
>
0.95

, AOR = 0.2). Conclusion. The prevalence of intestinal protozoal parasitic infection showed variation based on age, sex, and educational background of the study participants. Therefore, awareness creating training should be provided to the Negelle area communities so as to minimize the parasitic infection.
Productivity and Elemental/Chlorophyll Composition of Collard Greens in an Aquaponic System at Different Combinations of Media and Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae Frass Supplementations
Authors: Romano Nicholas , Islam Shahidul
Published: February 2023

Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae (BSFL) production will likely increase to meet the growing demand for sustainable protein and lipids. A by-product is “frass,” which is a mixture of mostly larval excrement but also chitin. This mineral-richby-product could be a valuable aquaponic supplement, but the information is limited. The aim of this study was twofold to determine if BSFL frass additions could enhance the production, mineral composition, and chlorophyll content of collard greens (Brassica oleracea var. viridis) after 10 weeks as well as the influence of culturing collard greens with or without media. Each aquaponic system contained 20 channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus; initial mean weight of 128 g) that were fed twice daily to apparent satiation. Results showed that dissolved nitrogen, pH, and dissolved oxygen were unaffected (

p
>
0.05

) by BSFL frass additions. There was a significant media and BSFL frass effect (

p
<
0.05

) on total weight, individual weight, and total height of collard greens where the media/frass treatment led to a ninefold increase in weight compared to the no media/no frass treatment. Moreover, both media and BSFL frass significantly increased (

p
<
0.05

) the total chlorophyll content while extensive chlorosis was observed in the no media/no frass group. Manganese in collard greens was significantly increased (

p
<
0.05

) by BSFL frass. The best combination for collard green growth and preventing any chlorosis was the media/frass treatment, which may be due to an increase in various nutrients that were more accessible by biomineralization in the media.
Valve-Sparing Aortic Root Replacement Technique: Valsalva Graft versus Two Straight Tubular Grafts
Authors: Makkinejad Alexander , Brown Bailey , Ahmad Rana-Armaghan , Hua Joanna , Wu Xiaoting , Fukuhara Shinichi , Kim Karen , Patel Himanshu , Deeb G. Michael , Yang Bo
Published: February 2023

Background. There are many variations in valve-sparing aortic root replacement techniques. Our aim is to determine the impact of the graft on mid-term outcomes: Valsalva graft vs. two straight tubular grafts. Methods. From 2004 to 2020, 332 patients underwent valve-sparing aortic root replacement with either a Valsalva graft (Valsalva group: n = 270) or two straight tubular grafts (two-graft group: n = 62). Data were obtained through chart review and the National Death Index. Primary outcomes were mid-term survival and freedom from reoperation. Results. The preoperative characteristics of the groups were similar, but the two-graft group had more type A dissections (32% vs. 19%) and emergent operations (26% vs. 15%) and was younger (45 vs. 50 years). Intraoperatively, the groups were similar, but the two-graft group had longer cross-clamp (245 vs. 215 minutes) and cardiopulmonary bypass times (284 vs. 255 minutes). Postoperative complications including reoperation for bleeding, stroke, pacemaker implantation, and renal failure were slightly more frequent in the Valsalva group, but the differences were not significant. Operative mortality was similar between the Valsalva and two-graft groups (0.7% vs. 0%). Five-year survival in the two-graft group was 100% compared to 96% in the Valsalva group (

p
=
0.56

). Five-year freedom from reoperation in the two-graft group was 100% compared to 93% in the Valsalva group (

p
=
0.29

). Conclusions. The Valsalva and two-graft techniques both have excellent short- and mid-term outcomes. The two-graft technique might have slightly better survival and freedom from reoperation, but a larger sample size and longer follow-up are needed to determine if these advantages are significant.
Characteristics of the Beef Cheek Meat-Based Sausage Added with Snakehead (Channa striata) Gelatin
Authors: Rosmawati  , Tawali Abu Bakar , Said Muhammad Irfan , Sari Sri Fatmah , Anwar Lely Okmawaty , Nurdin Iin Nurdianty , Said Anwar , Tamtama Ary , Auza Fuji Astuty , Zzaman Wahidu , Jeinie Mohammad Halim , Rahman Mohd Nazri Abdul , Huda Nurul
Published: February 2023

This study is aimed at determining the functional effect of snakehead fish gelatin as a binder on the characteristics and shelf life of beef cheek-based emulsion sausage compared with bovine commercial gelatin. The level of snakehead fish gelatin used was 0%, 1%, 2%, and 3%, while that of bovine commercial gelatin was 2% with a storage time of 0 to 28 days in the refrigerator (

4
±

2

°

C

). Emulsion stability, cooking loss, proximate composition, texture profile, and microstructure of sausage were initially determined before storage; then, observations were made every seven days to determine the shelf life of sausages based on pH, antioxidant activity, and TBA reactivity. Characteristics such as emulsion stability, proximate composition, and texture profile were influenced by the treatment (

p
<
0.05

). The gelatin level significantly affected the water holding capacity of sausages (

p
<
0.05

), but the storage time did not (

p
>
0.05

). On the other hand, the pH, TBA reactivity, and antioxidant activity of sausages were not only affected by gelatin level (

p
<
0.05

) but also by storage time (

p
<
0.05

). The sausage microstructure confirms the use of 2% snakehead fish gelatin to make sausages with properties similar to 2% commercial bovine gelatin. The byproduct of the snakehead fish industry can be used as a gelatin alternative to produce sausages. This gelatin has the potential as a binder, which can functionally improve sausage characteristics. This effectiveness can boost the water holding capacity of sausages, although it has not been effective in inhibiting fat oxidation which causes an increase in malonaldehyde levels.
Application of PDE Constrained Optimization in Internal Combustion Engine Pollution Control
Authors: Guan Hongliang
Published: February 2023

Aiming at the problem of secondary pollution of waters due to the difficulty of controlling the dosage of purifiers in the treatment of internal combustion engine pollution, a partial differential equation (referred to as PDE) constrained optimization algorithm based on

l

1

-norm is proposed. The algorithm first converts the internal combustion engine control model of the scavenger dose into a constrained optimization problem with a

l

1

-penalty term. Secondly, it introduces a dose constraint condition based on PDE and uses the inherent property of Moreau-Yosida regularization to establish a smooth minimization function. Finally, the semismooth Newton method is used to iteratively find the optimal solution. The results of the comparison experiment show that the algorithm in this paper has a great improvement in the results of Newton step number and dose area percentage.
Pool Toes: A Case Report
Authors: Munshi Mohammad , Borradori Luca , Yawalkar Nikhil , Heidemeyer Kristine
Published: February 2023

Pool toes, a sport-related dermatosis, are caused by mechanical friction and water exposure, resulting in a special variant of irritant contact dermatitis. It is common in children, often misdiagnosed, and rarely reported. Here we report a case of a 7-year-old girl who developed this unusual type of frictional dermatitis; a pool toes diagnosis has been made. With topical corticosteroids, favorable results have been achieved. The recovery and healing process will be facilitated if one is aware of the underlying causes of such dermatitis and ceases the triggering factors.
Repositioning of in-the-bag Dislocated Intraocular Lenses: A Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing Two Surgical Methods
Authors: Armonaite Laura , Behndig Anders
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate intraocular lens (IOL) tilt, IOL-induced astigmatism (IIA), refractive change, and impact of capsular fibrosis on IOL position after scleral fixation of dislocated IOL using two methods: ab externo scleral suture loop fixation (group A) and a modification, embracing the continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis (group B). Methods: In this prospective randomized clinical trial conducted at St. Erik Eye Hospital, 117 patients with dislocated IOL were randomized to group A (n = 61) or B (n = 56). Patients with ordinary pseudophakia (n = 60) served as controls. IOL tilt was measured three-dimensionally with anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT). Results: The median IOL tilt was similar with both methods (A: 7.8°; B: 8.3°; p = 0.51) but higher than in ordinary pseudophakia (5.4°; p < 0.001). Both groups showed a myopic shift, p < 0.001. In cases without capsular fibrosis, the median IOL tilt was 15.5° in group A (n = 7) and 7.0° in group B (n = 5), p = 0.19. For each degree of IOL tilt, IIA increased by 0.075 D (p < 0.001). IOL position could be measured with AS-OCT in all patients given that the IOL was visible in the pupil. Conclusion: After IOL fixation surgery, IOL tilt is higher than in normal pseudophakia. A study involving more patients without capsular fibrosis could clarify whether IOL position is better with method B in this subgroup. IAA is low, but myopic shift is common. AS-OCT is useful for IOL tilt assessment after IOL fixation surgery.
Epidemiology and Outcomes of Aortic Stenosis in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure: The ARIC Study
Authors: Sivaraj Krishan , Arora Sameer , Hendrickson Michael , Slehria Trisha , Chang Patricia P. , Weickert Thelsa , Vaduganathan Muthiah , Qamar Arman , Pandey Ambarish , Caughey Melissa C. , Cavender Matthew A. , Rosamond Wayne , Vavalle John P.
Published: February 2023

Background:

Few studies characterize the epidemiology and outcomes of aortic stenosis (AS) in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). This study investigates the significance of AS in contemporary patients who have experienced an ADHF hospitalization.

Methods:

The ARIC study (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities) surveilled ADHF hospitalizations for residents ≥55 years of age in 4 US communities. ADHF cases were stratified by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Demographic differences in AS burden and the association of varying AS severities with mortality were estimated using multivariable logistic regression.

Results:

From 2005 through 2014, there were 3597 (weighted n=16 692) ADHF hospitalizations of which 48.6% had an LVEF <50% and 51.4% an LVEF ≥50%. AS prevalence was 12.1% and 18.7% in those with an LVEF <50% and ≥50%, respectively. AS was less likely in Black than White patients regardless of LVEF: LVEF <50% (odds ratio [OR], 0.34 [95% CI, 0.28–0.42]); LVEF ≥50% (OR, 0.51 [95% CI, 0.44–0.59]). Higher AS severity was independently associated with 1-year mortality in both LVEF subgroups: LVEF <50% (OR, 1.16 [95% CI, 1.04–1.28]); LVEF ≥50% (OR, 1.40 [95% CI, 1.28–1.54]). Sensitivity analyses excluding severe AS patients detected that mild/moderate AS was independently associated with 1-year mortality in both LVEF subgroups: LVEF <50% (OR, 1.23 [95% CI, 1.02–1.47]); LVEF ≥50% (OR, 1.31 [95% CI, 1.14–1.51]).

Conclusions:

Among patients who have experienced an ADHF hospitalization, AS is prevalent and portends poor mortality outcomes. Notably, mild/moderate AS is independently associated with 1-year mortality in this high-risk population.
The spread of retracted research into policy literature
Authors: Malkov Dmitry , Yaqub Ohid , Siepel Josh
Published: February 2023

Retractions warn users against relying on problematic evidence. Until recently, it has not been possible to systematically examine the influence of retracted research on policy literature. Here, we use three databases to measure the extent of the phenomenon and explore what it might tell us about the users of such evidence. We identify policy-relevant documents that cite retracted research, we review and categorize the nature of citations, and we interview policy document authors. Overall, we find that 2.3% of retracted research is policy-cited. This seems higher than one might have expected, similar even to some notable benchmarks for “normal” nonretracted research that is policy-cited. The phenomenon is also multifaceted. First, certain types of retracted research (those with errors, types 1 and 4) are more likely to be policy-cited than other types (those without errors, types 2 and 3). Second, although some policy-relevant documents cite retracted research negatively, positive citations are twice as common and frequently occur after retraction. Third, certain types of policy organizations appear better at identifying problematic research and are perhaps more discerning when selecting and evaluating research.