bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bcl‐xL as prognostic marker and potential therapeutic target in cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Hoffmeister‐Wittmann Paula , Mock Andreas , Nichetti Federico , Korell Felix , Heilig Christoph E. , Scherr Anna‐Lena , Günther Michael , Albrecht Thomas , Kelmendi Eblina , Xu Kaiyu , Nader Luisa , Kessler Annika , Schmitt Nathalie , Fritzsche Sarah , Weiler Sofia , Sobol Benjamin , Stenzinger Albrecht , Boeck Stefan , Westphalen Christoph B. , Schulze‐Osthoff Klaus , Trojan Jörg , Kindler Thomas , Weichert Wilko , Spiekermann Karsten , Bitzer Michael , Folprecht Gunnar , Illert Anna L. , Boerries Melanie , Klauschen Frederick , Ochsenreither Sebastian , Siveke Jens , Bauer Sebastian , Glimm Hanno , Brors Benedikt , Hüllein Jennifer , Hübschmann Daniel , Uhrig Sebastian , Horak Peter , Kreutzfeldt Simon , Banales Jesus M. , Springfeld Christoph , Jäger Dirk , Schirmacher Peter , Roessler Stephanie , Ormanns Steffen , Goeppert Benjamin , Fröhling Stefan , Köhler Bruno C.
Published: August 2022

Intrahepatic, perihilar, and distal cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA, pCCA, dCCA) are highly malignant tumours with increasing mortality rates due to therapy resistances. Among the mechanisms mediating resistance, overexpression of anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 proteins (Bcl‐2, Bcl‐xL, Mcl‐1) is particularly important. In this study, we investigated whether antiapoptotic protein patterns are prognostically relevant and potential therapeutic targets in CCA. Bcl‐2 proteins were analysed in a pan‐cancer cohort from the NCT/DKFZ/DKTK MASTER registry trial (n = 1140, CCA n = 72) via RNA‐sequencing and transcriptome‐based protein activity interference revealing high ranks of CCA for Bcl‐xL and Mcl‐1. Expression of Bcl‐xL, Mcl‐1, and Bcl‐2 was assessed in human CCA tissue and cell lines compared with cholangiocytes by immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, and quantitative‐RT‐PCR. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the upregulation of Bcl‐xL and Mcl‐1 in iCCA tissues. Cell death of CCA cell lines upon treatment with specific small molecule inhibitors of Bcl‐xL (Wehi‐539), of Mcl‐1 (S63845), and Bcl‐2 (ABT‐199), either alone, in combination with each other or together with chemotherapeutics was assessed by flow cytometry. Targeting Bcl‐xL induced cell death and augmented the effect of chemotherapy in CCA cells. Combined inhibition of Bcl‐xL and Mcl‐1 led to a synergistic increase in cell death in CCA cell lines. Correlation between Bcl‐2 protein expression and survival was analysed within three independent patient cohorts from cancer centers in Germany comprising 656 CCA cases indicating a prognostic value of Bcl‐xL in CCA depending on the CCA subtype. Collectively, these observations identify Bcl‐xL as a key protein in cell death resistance of CCA and may pave the way for clinical application.
Inflation persistence and monetary policy: DSGE‐VAR approach
Authors: Chin Kuo‐Hsuan
Published: August 2022

We study the dynamics of U.S. inflation persistence and the sources resulting to it over the “Great Inflation” and “Great Moderation” periods. It is different from most of the current studies in that we consider a Bayesian VAR model with the DSGE prior, the so‐called DSGE‐VAR approach, in which the prior economic information is coming from a small‐scale New Keynesian DSGE model. In the recursive estimation of the model, we find a decline in the inflation persistence, measured by the “half‐life” response of inflation to the monetary policy shock, in the early 1980s. The stance of monetary policy, particularly the aggressive attitude toward the monetary policy implementation, plays an important role in explaining the structural change of the inflation persistence.
Intrusion of overerupted periodontally compromised posterior teeth using orthodontic mini implants: A mechanobiological finite element study
Authors: Ugarte Omar Melendres , Cattaneo Paolo Maria , Roscoe Marina Guimarães , Gialain Ivan Onone , Dominguez Gladys Cristina , Ballester Rafael Yagüe , Meira Josete Barbosa Cruz
Published: August 2022

Introduction

The intrusion of posterior teeth had been considered challenging up to the development of orthodontic mini implants. In periodontally compromised teeth, the challenge is even greater, because of the root resorption risk due to periodontal ligament over‐compression. Still, the precise strategy to determine the force reduction level remains uncertain.

Objective

The objective of the study was to determine, by a finite element analysis (FEA), the force reduction needed to avoid root resorption and maintain the efficiency of orthodontic mechanics of periodontally compromised teeth similar to the sound one.

Methods

An anatomical model was constructed representing a premolar inserted into a maxillary bone. Based on the initial model (R0), three bone height loss conditions were simulated (R2 = 2 mm, R4 = 4 mm, and R6 = 6 mm). Two intrusive movements were simulated: pure intrusion (bilateral mini implant) and uncontrolled‐tipping intrusion (buccal mini implant). The hydrostatic stress at the periodontal ligament was used to evaluate the risk of root resorption due to over‐compression.

Results

For bilateral mini implant intrusion, the force had to be decreased by 16%, 32% and 48% for R2, R4 and R6, respectively. For buccal mini implant intrusion, the required reductions were higher (20%, 36% and 56%). A linear relationship between the intrusive force reduction and the alveolar bone height loss was observed in both intrusion mechanics.

Conclusions

According to the FE results, 8% or 9.3% of force reduction for each millimetre of bone height loss is suggested for intrusion with bilateral or buccal mini implant, respectively. The buccal mini implant anchorage must be associated with a supplemental strategy to avoid buccal crown tipping.
Copy number variant‐based genome wide association study reveals immune‐related genes associated with parasite resistance in a heritage sheep breed from the United States
Authors: Estrada‐Reyes Zaira M. , Ogunade Ibukun M. , Pech‐Cervantes Andres A. , Terrill Thomas H.
Published: August 2022

Florida Native is a heritage sheep breed in the United States and expresses superior ability to regulate gastrointestinal nematodes. The objective of the present study was to investigate the importance of copy number variants (CNVs) on resistance to natural Haemonchus contortus infections. A total of 300 Florida Native sheep were evaluated. Phenotypic records included fecal egg count (FEC, eggs/gram), FAMACHA© score, percentage cell volume (PCV, %), body condition score (BCS) and average daily gain (ADG, kg). Sheep were genotyped using the GGP Ovine 50K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) chip. Log ratios from 45.2 k SNP markers spanning the entire genome were utilized for CNV detection. After quality control, 261 animals with CNVs and phenotypic records were used for the association testing. Association tests were carried out using correlation‐trend test and principal component analysis correction to identify CNVs associated with FEC, FAMACHA©, PCV, BCS and ADG. Significant CNVs were detected when their adjusted p‐value was <.05 after FDR correction. A total of 8124 CNVs were identified, which gave 246 non‐overlapping CNVs. Fourteen CNVs were significantly associated with FEC and PCV. CNVs associated with FEC overlapped 14 Quantitative Trait Locus previously associated with H. contortus resistance. Our study demonstrated for the first time that CNVs could be potentially involved with parasite resistance in Florida Native sheep. Immune‐related genes such as CCL1, CCL2, CCL8, CCL11, NOS2, TNF, CSF3 and STAT3 genes could play an important role for controlling H. contortus resistance. These genes could be potentially utilized as candidate markers for selection of parasite resistance in this breed.
Contemporary Native American and Indigenous Religions: State of the field
Authors: Keegan Brennan
Published: August 2022

Native American and Indigenous religions are incredibly diverse in practice, belief, material culture, and organization, which shape distinct individual religious experiences and communal identities. The study of Native American and Indigenous religions is not the study of a singular religion or people nor does it refer to a singular methodology. Instead, the study of contemporary Native American religions is the study of diverse communities that were and continue to be shaped by settler colonialism, Christian missionization, US federal Indian policy, and legal battles over religious freedom and ancestral lands. Three interrelated themes emerge in recent scholarship: the study of protest/protector movements and the assertion of legal rights for sovereignty, self‐determination, and religious freedom; the confluence of environmental issues and Indigenous religions; and an attention to global Indigeneity. A number of gaps remain, however: engagement with non‐federally recognized tribes; Indigenous communities outside of the American West; and religion and violence.
Community‐Based Social Enterprises as Actors for Neo‐Endogenous Rural Development: A Multi‐Stakeholder Approach☆
Authors: Olmedo Lucas , O'Shaughnessy Mary
Published: August 2022

Rural shrinking is an ongoing phenomenon in many parts of Europe. Against this backdrop neo‐endogenous rural development has been gaining support as a conceptual and policy approach which stress the combination of local and external actors, resources and forces for enhancing an integrated development of rural areas. Within this governance framework rural social enterprises have been stressed as potential key actors contributing to rural development. This paper explores, through 36 semi‐structured interviews with diverse stakeholders of two Irish community‐based rural social enterprises, the role of these organizations in contributing to a neo‐endogenous development. Our findings show how their mobilization of the social attachment of their members, their collective character and their delivery of tangible results have been key to develop collaborative dynamics with stakeholders from different sectors and situated at various spatial scales. Moreover, these organizations have accommodated global‐exogenous forces buffering their effects through locally‐focused solutions which address the needs of their rural communities, despite their incapacity to address the causes of these global‐exogenous trends. We conclude that rural community‐based social enterprises can play a relevant role in contributing to neo‐endogenous development, however, institutional frameworks that address the diversity of rural areas and that enhance balanced collaborations among different rural development stakeholders are a precondition to unlock their potential.
Efectividad de un hidratante bucal con ácido málico/xilitol como terapia anticaries en niños
Authors: Aguirre Aguilar Antonio Armando , Aguirre Aguilar Augusto Alberto , Ríos Caro Teresa Etelvina , Coronel Zubiate Franz Tito , Delgado Asmat Edith Esther
Published: August 2022

Objetivo: Conocer la efectividad de un hidratante oral que contiene ácido málico/xilitol como terapia anticaries en niños de 5 años libres de caries y diferentes niveles de Índice de Higiene Oral simplificado (IHO-s). Materiales y métodos: Ensayo clínico no controlado aleatorizado en 96 muestras salivales de niños, distribuidos en dos grupos de 48 niños con IHO-s aceptable (n = 16), deficiente (n = 16) y adecuado (n = 16), con una y dos aplicaciones del hidratante por grupo al día, durante 21 días. La efectividad fue evaluada de acuerdo con el perfil salival (volumen salival, flujo salival, recuento de Streptococcus mutans, pH salival, capacidad amortiguadora y cantidad de flúor). Resultados: Con una aplicación en el nivel adecuado de IHO-s hubo un cambio positivo en el volumen (7,5 ml) y pH (7,47) salivales; en el nivel aceptable, su efectividad se manifestó en el pH (7,51) y capacidad amortiguadora (7,22), y en el nivel deficiente, en la capacidad amortiguadora (6,23). Con dos aplicaciones es eficiente en todos los componentes del perfil salival, excepto en nivel de flúor y recuento de Streptococcus mutans para los 3 niveles de IHO-s. Conclusiones: Dos aplicaciones diarias del spray Xeros Dentaid® tienen un efecto positivo sobre los valores del perfil salival y puede utilizarse como terapia anticaries.
¿Tiene algún efecto una intervención multimodal en personas con trastorno neurocognoscitivo?
Authors: Gama González Ana Carolina , Oviedo Lugo Gabriel Fernando , Vargas Sandra Viviana , Benito Margarita María , Giraldo Villate Claudia Irene
Published: August 2022

Antecedentes: Si bien se conoce el beneficio de las medidas no farmacológicas en el tratamiento de algunos síntomas comportamentales y cognoscitivos del trastorno neurocognitivo mayor, no se ha estudiado suficientemente el impacto de las intervenciones multimodales, dado que no existen estudios en Colombia que aborden este problema. Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de una intervención multimodal sobre la funcionalidad, estado cognitivo y calidad de vida de las personas ancianas con trastorno neurocognitivo mayor. Método: Estudio descriptivo con una muestra de 25 adultos mayores que asistieron al hospital de día de psicogeriatría entre 2017 y 2018, con un Minimental State Examination mayor o igual a 10 y con disponibilidad de cuidador para asistir a las reuniones de seguimiento. Se realizó una valoración funcional, cognoscitiva, de la calidad de vida y seguimiento observacional del estrés durante la terapia, al inicio de la observación, a los seis meses y al año. Resultados: No se encontraron diferencias significativas en la valoración funcional, cognoscitiva ni de calidad de vida; pero, en todas las pruebas, se evidenció una tendencia a la mejoría. Se encontró una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en el disfrute de la terapia por parte de los participantes, medido por el NPT-ES. Conclusiones: Los pacientes mantuvieron su funcionamiento físico y cognitivo, tuvieron una percepción de tener una buena calidad de vida y siempre disfrutaron su terapia. Las intervenciones no farmacológicas multimodales son complementarias a los enfoques terapéuticos estandarizados y pueden contribuir en la calidad de vida del paciente y de sus cuidadores. Se requiere un mayor monto de investigación en esta área.
Efectos de la pandemia del SARS-CoV-2 en pacientes con errores innatos del metabolismo. Revisión de la literatura.
Authors: Cancino Ricketts Daniel F. , Ríos Mora Juliana , Sáenz Díaz Laura Camila , Echeverri Peña Olga Yaneth , Guevara Morales Johana
Published: August 2022

El impacto de la pandemia del virus SARS-CoV-2 ha generado un cambio en la atención médica de diversas enfermedades en muchos centros de salud. Los errores innatos del metabolismo (EIM) constituyen enfermedades genéticas que implican un compromiso crónico, con necesidad de seguimientos continuos y aplicación de tratamientos de alta complejidad. Además, se ha sugerido que estas patologías podrían constituir un factor de riesgo para el desarrollo de complicaciones ante la infección por SARS-CoV-2. Con el propósito de identificar cómo la pandemia ha afectado a la población con EIM, se analizaron 17 artículos en donde se evidencian los efectos que ha generado este virus en la salud, el tratamiento, la atención médica y el estilo de vida de pacientes con EIM. Los resultados aportan una visión del conocimiento de la situación de este grupo de pacientes observando que, contrario a lo esperado, hay una perspectiva positiva en términos del comportamiento de las enfermedades en poblaciones con EIM, aunque se evidenciaron algunos inconvenientes en la atención médica. Se resalta la importancia de analizar y divulgar la evidencia disponible para aportar información que contribuya al mejoramiento de la atención y asesoría de pacientes atendiendo a realidades y necesidades específicas.
Manifestaciones clínicas del Síndrome de Möbius: scoping review
Authors: Nieto Ramírez Luis Eduardo , Mejia Jaramillo Sarita , Camayo Vásquez Tatiana , Téllez Hernández Carolina
Published: August 2022

El síndrome de Möbius (SM) hace parte de un grupo de desórdenes genéticos conocidos como desordenes congénitos de denervación craneal (CCDD). Se trata de una parálisis oculofacial congénita infrecuente con pocos casos reportados desde su primera descripción por Von-Graefe en 1880 y Moebius en 1888.  La prevalencia del síndrome de Möbius se estima que es entre 1-2 por cada 10.000 nacimientos, afectando por igual a ambos sexos. Se caracteriza por compromiso de múltiples nervios craneales, más frecuentemente el VI y VII par. Entre los signos y síntomas de mayor relevancia están la inhabilidad para realizar expresiones faciales, y compromiso de la mirada conjugada. Múltiples posibles causales han sido estudiadas, pero no se ha determinado una etiología específica, entre estas causas están los trastornos vasculares secundarios a medicamentos, tóxicos, fenómenos de la actividad uterina, así como la teoría familiar genética de herencia autosómica dominante. Es frecuente que este síndrome curse con malformaciones extracraneales en particular de los miembros superiores. El diagnóstico se hace generalmente en la infancia, es principalmente clínico, sin embargo, la confirmación imagenológica es necesaria. Aunque la sintomatología no es progresiva es indispensable que el abordaje sea multidisciplinario incluyendo valoración inicial por Neurología, Genética, manejo quirúrgico por Cirugía Plástica, Terapia Física, y Rehabilitación neurológica.
Intermediates in SARS-CoV-2 spike–mediated cell entry
Authors: Marcink Tara C. , Kicmal Thomas , Armbruster Emily , Zhang Zhening , Zipursky Gillian , Golub Kate L. , Idris Mohab , Khao Jonathan , Drew-Bear Jennifer , McGill Gael , Gallagher Tom , Porotto Matteo , des Georges Amédée , Moscona Anne
Published: August 2022

SARS-CoV-2 cell entry is completed after viral spike (S) protein–mediated membrane fusion between viral and host cell membranes. Stable prefusion and postfusion S structures have been resolved by cryo–electron microscopy and cryo–electron tomography, but the refolding intermediates on the fusion pathway are transient and have not been examined. We used an antiviral lipopeptide entry inhibitor to arrest S protein refolding and thereby capture intermediates as S proteins interact with hACE2 and fusion-activating proteases on cell-derived target membranes. Cryo–electron tomography imaged both extended and partially folded intermediate states of S2, as well as a novel late-stage conformation on the pathway to membrane fusion. The intermediates now identified in this dynamic S protein–directed fusion provide mechanistic insights that may guide the design of CoV entry inhibitors.
Surface chemistry on a polarizable surface: Coupling of CO with KTaO3(001)
Authors: Wang Zhichang , Reticcioli Michele , Jakub Zdenek , Sokolović Igor , Meier Matthias , Boatner Lynn A. , Schmid Michael , Parkinson Gareth S. , Diebold Ulrike , Franchini Cesare , Setvin Martin
Published: August 2022

Polarizable materials attract attention in catalysis because they have a free parameter for tuning chemical reactivity. Their surfaces entangle the dielectric polarization with surface polarity, excess charge, and orbital hybridization. How this affects individual adsorbed molecules is shown for the incipient ferroelectric perovskite KTaO3. This intrinsically polar material cleaves along (001) into KO- and TaO2-terminated surface domains. At TaO2terraces, the polarity-compensating excess electrons form a two-dimensional electron gas and can also localize by coupling to ferroelectric distortions. TaO2terraces host two distinct types of CO molecules, adsorbed at equivalent lattice sites but charged differently as seen in atomic force microscopy/scanning tunneling microscopy. Temperature-programmed desorption shows substantially stronger binding of the charged CO; in density functional theory calculations, the excess charge favors a bipolaronic configuration coupled to the CO. These results pinpoint how adsorption states couple to ferroelectric polarization.
Psoas muscle metastatic disease mimicking a psoas abscess on imaging
Authors: Gunn Christopher , Fani Mazyar
Published: August 2022

Here, we report a case of malignant psoas syndrome presented to us during the second peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our patient had a medical history of hypertension, recently diagnosed with left iliac deep vein thrombosis and previous breast and endometrial cancers. She presented with exquisite pain and a fixed flexion deformity of the left hip. A rim-enhancing lesion was seen within the left psoas muscle and was initially deemed to be a psoas abscess. This failed to respond to medical management and attempts at drainage. Subsequent further imaging revealed the mass was of a malignant nature; histology revealing a probable carcinomatous origin. Following diagnosis, palliative input was obtained and, unfortunately, our patient passed away in a hospice shortly after discharge. We discuss the aetiology, radiological findings and potential treatments of this condition and learning points to prompt clinicians to consider this diagnosis in those with a personal history of cancer.
Longitudinal associations between self-reported vision impairment and all-cause mortality: a nationally representative cohort study among older Chinese adults
Authors: Wang Ziyue , Congdon Nathan , Ma Xiaochen
Published: August 2022

Objective

To compare the effects of pre-existing and new self-reported vision impairment (VI), and its correction, on all-cause mortality among Chinese adults aged 45 years and older.

Methods

We used four waves of data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Our analytical cohort consists of 15 808 participants aged 45 years and older with an average follow-up of 6.4 years. Exposures included pre-existing self-reported VI and vision correction (time‐independent exposures), new self-reported VI and vision correction (time‐dependent exposures). Outcomes were measured as the risk of all-cause mortality and the risk stratification for pre-specified factors.

Results

Compared with participants with normal vision, all-cause mortality was higher among those with pre-existing self-reported VI (crude HR (cHR)=1.29, 95% CI: 1.17 to 1.44; adjusted HR (aHR)=1.22, 95% CI: 1.09 to 1.37) and new self-reported VI (cHR=1.42, 95% CI: 1.28 to 1.58; aHR=1.36, 95% CI: 1.21 to 1.51). Mortality risk was lower among those with high school or higher education. Participants who were wearing eyeglasses/contact lenses or had cataract surgery at baseline did not have significantly higher all-cause mortality (eyeglasses: aHR=0.82, 95% CI: 0.65 to 1.02; cataract surgery: aHR=1.12, 95% CI: 0.74 to 1.69) compared with participants with normal vision. The same was true among participants with new correction of self-reported VI (glasses: aHR=1.01, 95% CI: 0.78 to 1.24; cataract surgery: aHR=0.95, 95% CI: 0.68 to 1.31).

Conclusions

Both pre-existing and new self-reported VI increase all-cause mortality among Chinese adults aged 45 years and older, though visual correction reduces this risk.
Community-based surveillance of infectious diseases: a systematic review of drivers of success
Authors: McGowan Catherine R. , Takahashi Emi , Romig Laura , Bertram Kathryn , Kadir Ayesha , Cummings Rachael , Cardinal Laura J.
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Community-based surveillance may improve early detection and response to disease outbreaks by leveraging the capacity of community members to carry out surveillance activities within their communities. In 2021, the WHO published a report detailing the evidence gaps and research priorities around community-centred approaches to health emergencies. In response, we carried out a systematic review and narrative synthesis of the evidence describing the drivers of success of community-based surveillance systems.

Methods

We included grey literature and peer-reviewed sources presenting empirical findings of the drivers of success of community-based surveillance systems for the detection and reporting of infectious disease-related events. We searched for peer-reviewed literature via MEDLINE, EMBASE, Global Health, SCOPUS and ReliefWeb. We carried out grey literature searches using Google Search and DuckDuckGo. We used an evaluation quality checklist to assess quality.

Results

Nineteen sources (17 peer-reviewed and 2 grey literature) met our inclusion criteria. Included sources reported on community-based surveillance for the detection and reporting of a variety of diseases in 15 countries (including three conflict settings). The drivers of success were grouped based on factors relating to: (1) surveillance workers, (2) the community, (3) case detection and reporting, (4) and integration.

Discussion

The drivers of success were found to map closely to principles of participatory community engagement with success factors reflecting high levels of acceptability, collaboration, communication, local ownership, and trust. Other factors included: strong supervision and training, a strong sense of responsibility for community health, effective engagement of community informants, close proximity of surveillance workers to communities, the use of simple and adaptable case definitions, quality assurance, effective use of technology, and the use of data for real-time decision-making. Our findings highlight strategies for improving the design and implementation of community-based surveillance. We suggest that investment in participatory community engagement more broadly may be a key surveillance preparedness activity.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022303971.
How do hospitals engage patients and family members in quality management? A grounded theory study of hospitals in Brazil
Authors: Saut Ana Maria , Berssaneti Fernando Tobal , Ho Linda Lee , Berger Simone
Published: August 2022

Background

Patient and family engagement (PFE) is considered an essential element of the transformation of the healthcare system. However, it is characterised by its complexity and a small number of institutions that have implemented the mechanisms of engagement.

Objective

To understand PFE in quality management (QM) in the hospital environment.

Design

A qualitative approach was guided by the grounded theory based in Straussian perspective. Data were gathered using semistructured interviews. The coding was performed by excerpts, using an inductive approach and the constant comparison technique.

Setting and participants

A total of seven Brazilian hospitals were selected based on the theoretical sampling technique.

Results

A total of five categories emerged, namely: patient partner, mechanisms of engagement, internal structure for engagement, maturity of the QM system and openness to change. Externally, three contextual factors can impact the engagement: the local health system, the profile of the community and the change in access to the information. At the centre of the change is the balance in power relations between patients and professionals, the sharing of information from the hospital and a proactive attitude towards improving services.

Conclusions

The PFE involves a cultural and process change. Cultural change is represented by ‘openness’, that is, openness to learn, to listen and to consider new perspectives. The change in processes is in turn characterised by the phrase ‘test and venture’ because the model to be adopted may be different between hospitals. The patient’s perspective allows actions to be driven towards what really matters to them, ensuring quality of service and safety, obtaining a new perspective to understand and solve problems, and stimulating a sense of urgency, more empathy and compassion in professionals.
Preventing unscheduled hospitalisations from asthma: a retrospective cohort study using routine primary and secondary care data in the UK (The PUSH-Asthma Study)—protocol paper
Authors: Simms-Williams Nikita , Nagakumar Prasad , Thayakaran Rasiah , Adderley Nicola , Hotham Richard , Mansur Adel , Nirantharakumar Krishnarajah , Haroon Shamil
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Asthma is the most common chronic respiratory disease in children and adults. Asthma results in significant disease-related morbidity, healthcare costs and, in some cases, death. Despite efforts through implementation of national guidelines to improve asthma care, the UK has one of the highest asthma-related morbidity and mortality rates in the western world. New approaches are necessary to prevent asthma attacks in children and adults. The objectives of this study are to assess the association between demographic and clinical factors and asthma-related hospital admissions in children and adults, describe the epidemiology of asthma phenotypes among hospital attenders, and externally validate existing asthma risk prediction models.

Methods and analysis

This is a retrospective cohort study of children and adults with asthma. Data will be extracted from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) Aurum database, which holds anonymised primary care data for over 13 million actively registered patients and covers approximately 19% of the UK population. The primary outcome will be asthma-related hospital admissions. The secondary outcomes will be prescriptions of short courses of oral corticosteroids (as a surrogate measure for asthma exacerbations), a composite outcome measure including hospital admissions and prescriptions of short courses of oral corticosteroids and delivery of asthma care management following hospital discharge. The primary analysis will use a Poisson regression model to assess the association between demographic and clinical risk factors and the primary and secondary outcomes. Latent class analysis will be used to identify distinct subgroups, which will further our knowledge on potential phenotypes of asthma among patients at high risk of asthma-related hospital admissions. A Concordance statistic (C-statistic) and logistic regression model will also be used to externally validate existing risk prediction models for asthma-related hospitalisations to allow for the optimal model to be identified and evaluated provide evidence for potential use of the optimal performing risk prediction model in primary care.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by the CPRD Independent Scientific Advisory Committee (reference number: 21_000512). Findings from this study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and disseminated at national and international conferences.
Protecting against brain damage by improving treatment in neonates with hypoglycaemia: ProBrain-D—a study protocol of a prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Hoermann Henrike , Roeper Marcia , Dafsari Roschan Salimi , Koestner Felix , Schneble Dominik , von Zezschwitz Dunja , Mayatepek Ertan , Kummer Sebastian , Meissner Thomas
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Although neonatal hypoglycaemia is the most common metabolic problem in neonates, there is no standard guideline for screening. Additionally, treatment of neonatal hypoglycaemia and glucose administration thresholds are discussed controversially. Severe hypoglycaemia can lead to brain damage, but data on the effects of mild hypoglycaemia on neurological development are limited. To our knowledge, this is the first prospective longitudinal cohort study to analyse if the implementation of a new diagnosis and treatment standard for neonatal hypoglycaemia may improve the outcome of neonates at risk for hypoglycaemia, especially concerning neurodevelopment. Furthermore, the acceptance and feasibility of the standard among different professional groups and parents are analysed.

Methods and analysis

After implementation of a structured standard operating procedure (SOP), detailing preventive measures, blood glucose screening and neonatal hypoglycaemia treatment in a tertiary care hospital, 678 neonates ≥35+0 weeks of gestation will be recruited in a monocentric prospective cohort study. For comparison, 139 children born before the implementation of this new SOP, who had risk factors for neonatal hypoglycaemia or qualified for blood glucose measurements are recruited (retrospective cohort). For the primary end point, comparative analyses between and within the prospective and retrospective cohorts will be performed regarding the neurological outcome at 2–2.5 years of age in Bayley Scales of Infant Development. Furthermore, comprehensive clinical data and data on nutrition and developmental milestones are assessed at different time points (6 weeks, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months) in the prospective cohort. Acceptance and feasibility of the new standard are assessed using questionnaires.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the Medical Faculty of the Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf (20201162). The results of this study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences.

Trial registration number

DRKS00024086.
Clinical implications of gender and race in patients admitted with autoimmune hepatitis: updated analysis of US hospitals
Authors: Lee David Uihwan , Kwon Jean , Koo Christina , Han John , Fan Gregory Hongyuan , Jung Daniel , Addonizio Elyse Ann , Chang Kevin , Urrunaga Nathalie Helen
Published: August 2022

Background

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) can result in end-stage liver disease that requires inpatient treatment of the hepatic complications. Given this phenomenon, it is important to analyse the impact of gender and race on the outcomes of patients who are admitted with AIH using a national hospital registry.

Methods

The 2012–2017 National Inpatient Sample database was used to select patients with AIH, who were stratified using gender and race (Hispanics and blacks as cases and whites as reference). Propensity score matching was employed to match the controls with cases and compare mortality, length of stay and hepatic complications.

Results

After matching, there were 4609 females and 4609 males, as well as 3688 blacks and 3173 Hispanics with equal numbers of whites, respectively. In multivariate analysis, females were less likely to develop complications, with lower rates of cirrhosis, ascites, variceal bleeding, hepatorenal syndrome, encephalopathy and acute liver failure (ALF); they also exhibited lower length of stay (adjusted OR, aOR 0.96 95% CI 0.94 to 0.97). When comparing races, blacks (compared with whites) had higher rates of ALF and hepatorenal syndrome related to ALF, but had lower rates of cirrhosis-related encephalopathy; in multivariate analysis, blacks had longer length of stay (aOR 1.071, 95% CI 1.050 to 1.092). Hispanics also exhibited higher rates of hepatic complications, including ascites, varices, variceal bleeding, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and encephalopathy.

Conclusion

Males and minorities are at a greater risk of developing hepatic complications and having increased hospital costs when admitted with AIH.
Three short postmeal walks as an alternate therapy to continuous walking for women with gestational diabetes
Authors: Christie Hannah E. , Chang Courtney R. , Jardine Isabelle R. , Francois Monique E.
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this study was to determine whether postmeal walking (PMW, breaking up exercise into short bouts after meals) is an effective and feasible alternative to continuous walking for the management of gestational diabetes. Forty-one women with gestational diabetes were randomised between weeks 28–30 gestation to either standard care (30 minutes continuous exercise) or standard care with PMW (10 minutes of walking after breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Continuous glucose and activity monitors were worn to measure glycaemic control and adherence during 3 days of standard care (baseline) followed by 3 days of postmeal or continuous walking. A linear mixed model analysed the changes from baseline between postmeal and continuous walking, as an average of the 3-day periods. Thirty-two women (PMW n = 17: control n = 15, 33 ± 5 years, body mass index 25 ± 4 kg·m–2) completed the trial. Postprandial and overnight glucose concentrations were similar between PMW and control; both interventions improved from baseline. There was no difference in adherence between groups; however, PMW completed more minutes of prescribed physical activity across baseline and intervention days compared to the continuous walking standard-care group. Preliminary findings from this proof-of-concept study suggest PMW could be a promising alternative to, and work interchangeably with, traditional advice to perform continuous moderate-intensity physical activity in women with gestational diabetes.

Novelty:

Three 10-minute postmeal walks may be comparable to 30 minutes continuous walking for glucose control in women with gestational diabetes. Accumulating activity in short bouts after meals is a feasible alternate to continuous exercise for women with gestational diabetes.
Entropy production in the inflationary epoch using the Gouy–Stodola theorem
Authors: Longaresi R. H. , Campos S. D.
Published: August 2022

In this work, we use the Gouy–Stodola theorem to calculate the entropy production rate in the inflationary epoch of the universe. This theorem allows us the simple calculation of entropy and entropy production rate occasioned by the decaying of the inflaton scalar field. Both the entropy and entropy production rate achieve large values, agreeing with the expected values present in the literature.
A Dynamic Programming Bayesian Network Structure Learning Algorithm Based on Mutual Information
Authors: Lv Zhigang , Li Ye , Di Ruohai , Wang Hongxi , Li Liangliang , Wang Peng , Li Xiaoyan
Published: August 2022

Existing Bayesian network (BN) structure learning algorithms based on dynamic programming have high computational complexity and are difficult to apply to large-scale networks. Therefore, this paper proposes a Dynamic Programming BN structure learning algorithm based on Mutual Information, the MIDP (Dynamic Programming Based on Mutual Information) algorithm. The algorithm uses mutual information to build the maximum spanning tree and [Formula: see text]-order matrix, and introduces a penalty coefficient d based on the matrix-based node removal strategy, so as to reduce the number of scoring calculations and time consumption of the algorithm. Simulation results show that, compared with DP, SMDP and MEDP algorithms, the MIDP algorithm can reduce the calculation times and time consumption of algorithm scores while maintaining the accuracy of the algorithm when selecting the appropriate [Formula: see text] value.
Pricing Game of Smart Charging Services for Risk-Averse Users in the Smart Grid
Authors: Shuai Wenjing
Published: August 2022

Electric vehicles play a key role in the transition to an environmental-friendly transportation system and can meanwhile enhance the power system’s evolution to the smart grid. With the adoption of dynamic pricing and usage scheduling enabled by the smart grid equipment, a variety of smart charging strategies have been designed to make the most of flexibility contained in their considerable electricity demand, whereas less effort is devoted to users’ willingness to participate. In this paper, we model a noncooperative pricing game between two types of charging stations. One offers conventional fast charging and the other uses the electric vehicles’ onboard batteries to provide regulation service to the grid. With drivers’ risk attitudes and bounded rationality taken into consideration, we design a prospect theory-based decision model to calculate the proportion of users that would go for the regulation-providing charging option. The decision model of the customer base is a critical determinant of profitability and it enables two competitors to strategically set their prices that optimally balance between gaining in market share and growing in profit per client. We prove the existence of a pure strategy Nash equilibrium for the game proposed and compute the equilibrium prices in different circumstances with respect to market settings and user segments. A comprehensive analysis of the results gives insights into the key factors at play and provides the grid operators with indications of how to increase the penetration of electric vehicles in the ancillary service market.
Torsional dark energy
Authors: Benisty D. , van de Venn A. , Vasak D. , Struckmeier J. , Stoecker H.
Published: August 2022

Dark energy from kinetic torsion is discussed. The torsion incorporated in the Einstein–Cartan (EC) Lagrangian is assumed to be totally anti-symmetric, represented by a timelike axial vector [Formula: see text]. The dynamics of torsion is invoked by a novel kinetic term that gives rise to dark energy, while the massive quadratic torsion term, emanating from the EC part, represents a stiff fluid that leads to a bouncing term.
On profinite groups in which centralizers have bounded rank
Authors: Shumyatsky Pavel
Published: August 2022

The paper deals with profinite groups in which centralizers are of finite rank. For a positive integer [Formula: see text] we prove that if [Formula: see text] is a profinite group in which the centralizer of every nontrivial element has rank at most [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] is either a pro-[Formula: see text] group or a group of finite rank. Further, if [Formula: see text] is not virtually a pro-[Formula: see text] group, then [Formula: see text] is virtually of rank at most [Formula: see text].
Positive solutions for the Schrödinger–Poisson system with steep potential well
Authors: Du Miao
Published: August 2022

In this paper, we consider the following Schrödinger–Poisson system [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] are real parameters and [Formula: see text]. Suppose that [Formula: see text] represents a potential well with the bottom [Formula: see text], the system has been widely studied in the case [Formula: see text]. In contrast, no existence result of solutions is available for the case [Formula: see text] due to the presence of the nonlocal term [Formula: see text]. With the aid of the truncation technique and the parameter-dependent compactness lemma, we first prove the existence of positive solutions for [Formula: see text] large and [Formula: see text] small in the case [Formula: see text]. Then we obtain the nonexistence of nontrivial solutions for [Formula: see text] large and [Formula: see text] large in the case [Formula: see text]. Finally, we explore the decay rate of the positive solutions as [Formula: see text] as well as their asymptotic behavior as [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text].
Analysis of Hyper-Parameters for AlphaZero-Like Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Wang Hui , Emmerich Michael , Preuss Mike , Plaat Aske
Published: August 2022

The landmark achievements of AlphaGo Zero have created great research interest into self-play in reinforcement learning. In self-play, Monte Carlo Tree Search (MCTS) is used to train a deep neural network, which is then used itself in tree searches. The training is governed by many hyper-parameters. There has been surprisingly little research on design choices for hyper-parameter values and loss functions, presumably because of the prohibitive computational cost to explore the parameter space. In this paper, we investigate 12 hyper-parameters in an AlphaZero-like self-play algorithm and evaluate how these parameters contribute to training. Through multi-objective analysis, we identify four important hyper-parameters to further assess. To start, we find surprising results where too much training can sometimes lead to lower performance. Our main result is that the number of self-play iterations subsumes MCTS-search simulations, game episodes and training epochs. As a consequence of our experiments, we provide recommendations on setting hyper-parameter values in self-play. The outer loop of self-play iterations should be emphasized, in favor of the inner loop. This means hyper-parameters for the inner loop, should be set to lower values. A secondary result of our experiments concerns the choice of optimization goals, for which we also provide recommendations.
Experimental Analysis with GRA-PCA-Based Hybrid Optimization to Analyze the Effect of Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticle-Reinforced UHMWPE for Hip Joint
Authors: Singh Ranjeet Kumar , Gangwar Swati , Singh D. K.
Published: August 2022

Development in engineering material for total hip joint replacement obtained long life with minimum adverse effects produced in the human body. Due to their exceptional compatibility with tissue and bone, hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (n-HAp) have been employed as a filler material in polymer bio-composite for biomedical applications. This study used hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (n-HAp) as a filler material in ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) at four different wt.-%ages (0[Formula: see text]wt.%, 5[Formula: see text]wt.%, 1[Formula: see text]wt.% 0[Formula: see text]wt.% and 15[Formula: see text]wt.%). This research aims to make UHMWPE/n-HAp bio-composites using heat-assisted compression molding and explore its mechanical characteristics such as flexural strength, compression strength, and impact strength. Microstructural analyses of n-HAp aggregation in UHMWPE using scanning electron microscopic (SEM) are done. The experimental results done by the authors suggest that bio-composite (with UHMWPE+10[Formula: see text]wt.% n-HAp) show superior mechanical properties compared to other hip joint compositions. Here, 10[Formula: see text]wt.% hydroxyapatite nanoparticles- reinforced in UHMWPE improve flexural strength and compression strength by 18.75% and 37.14%, respectively, at the expense of impact strength. Further, the GRA-PCA-based multi-objective optimization hybrid analysis also finds that bio-composite (UHMWPE+10[Formula: see text]wt.% n-HAp) shows the highest mechanical strength with minimal surface roughness value.
Effect of sensing matrices on quality index parameters for block sparse bayesian learning-based EEG compressive sensing
Authors: Upadhyaya Vivek , Salim Mohammad
Published: August 2022

Due to the ongoing research in the medical domain, we get lot of data for storage and transmission purposes. Real-time processing and reduction of medical data are tedious. Hence, an approach is required to compress the data and reconstruct it by using a few samples. We proposed a model with a remote Health Care Unit & Patient for EEG signals in this work. In this model, our prime concern is to reduce the number of samples to reconstruct a compressed EEG signal. So, to reduce the number of samples, we opt for compressive sensing approach. As it is a well-known concept, Compressive Sensing is the framework that mainly depends upon the Sensing matrix for compression and the Basis matrix for representation. By considering this fact, we demonstrate a technique, which is a combination of the Compressive Sensing and BSBL by employing different measurement matrices. Since BSBL has already been mentioned in the literature, we compared the results based on this demonstration with the previously mentioned approach and found a significant change in the parameters mentioned in the result and analysis section.
α-Ideals in Bounded Commutative Residuated Lattices
Authors: Kakeu Ariane G. Tallee , Strüngmann Lutz , Njionou Blaise B. Koguep , Lele Celestin
Published: August 2022

This study aims to introduce the concept of [Formula: see text]-ideal in bounded commutative residuated lattices and establish some related properties. In this paper, we show that the set of [Formula: see text]-ideals of a bounded commutative residuated lattice is a Heyting algebra, and an algebraic lattice. Moreover, we state the prime [Formula: see text]-ideal theorem, and describe relations between [Formula: see text]-ideals and some types of ideals of a bounded commutative residuated lattice. Finally, we discuss correspondences between [Formula: see text]-ideals and [Formula: see text]-filters of a bounded commutative residuated lattice.