bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of spatial structures of tissues in cancer initiation dynamics
Authors: Spaulding Cade , Teimouri Hamid , Kolomeisky Anatoly B
Published: July 2022

It is widely believed that biological tissues evolved to lower the risks of cancer development. One of the specific ways to minimize the chances of tumor formation comes from proper spatial organization of tissues. However, the microscopic mechanisms of underlying processes remain not fully understood. We present a theoretical investigation on the role of spatial structures in cancer initiation dynamics. In our approach, the dynamics of single mutation fixations are analyzed using analytical calculations and computer simulations by mapping them to Moran processes on graphs with different connectivity that mimic various spatial structures. It is found that while the fixation probability is not affected by modifying the spatial structures of the tissues, the fixation times can change dramatically. The slowest dynamics is observed in ‘quasi-one-dimensional’ structures, while the fastest dynamics is observed in ‘quasi-three-dimensional’ structures. Theoretical calculations also suggest that there is a critical value of the degree of graph connectivity, which mimics the spatial dimension of the tissue structure, above which the spatial structure of the tissue has no effect on the mutation fixation dynamics. An effective discrete-state stochastic model of cancer initiation is utilized to explain our theoretical results and predictions. Our theoretical analysis clarifies some important aspects on the role of the tissue spatial structures in the cancer initiation processes.
Enhancement the properties of lightweight concrete mortars by some additive materials
Authors: Abdelfattah M , Géber R , Tihtih M , Kocserha I
Published: July 2022

The interfacial transition zone is the most important zone which can be controlled in the physical and mechanical properties of the lightweight concrete aggregates. So, this work aims to study this zone, and enhance the properties of the lightweight concrete aggregates using some additive materials such as perlite and tuff. Three clay samples were collected from Hungary. The fired aggregates were mixed with cement mortar and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) with Rietveld method and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDAX). The physical and mechanical properties of the samples were measured according to ASTM methods. The results showed that the density of the concrete mortars after adding the additive materials was decreased by 12-20% at 28 days. The interfacial transition zone was affected by the reaction between the surface of the aggregates and the cementitious materials. The calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) phase was decreased the bulk density and compressive strength of the concrete mortars.
Investigation of silicic acid saturation and gel formation during ISG leaching: 180 days duration reaction at 90 °C
Authors: Dabbas Ali AL , Kopecskó Katalin
Published: July 2022

Currently, borosilicate glasses are utilised to immobilise highly radioactive waste. They are durable materials; however, they corrode in aqueous solutions, resulting in silica-rich alteration layers. This study employed the nuclear waste leaching tests (MCC-1, MCC-3) on International Simple Glass (ISG) samples. The corrosion rate in pure water and saturated water with respect to ISG corrosion products was investigated at an initial pH of 6.3 and a reaction temperature of 90 °C. For 3, 7, 14, 28, 90, and 180 days, batch experimental models with extremely high and very low glass surface area to volume (S/V) ratios were examined. The results showed that early saturation in the higher S/V system resulted in a ten order magnitude reduced corrosion rate compared to the lower S/V system. This emphasises the significance of saturation in achieving a reduced corrosion rate. This research proved the significant influence of the solution’s chemistry on the glass corrosion rate via pH and other chemical parameters.
Application of ASTER images for identification and localization of iron minerals in red mud dumps of the Ural aluminum plant
Authors: Ageev A.S. , Kotova E.L. , Sun S. , Kotova O.B. , Brodskaya R.L.
Published: July 2022

Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) was used to identify and mapping of industrially and environmentally important iron oxides and hydroxides in red mud dumps. In paper we were focused on specified region of interests - one of the largest boxite processing manufactory in Russia Ural Aluminum Plan (UAP). Initially we use ASTER L1T images. The graph of processing includes band relationship, principal component analysis and spectral angle mapper procedures for identifying spatial distribution of targeted minerals. Several minerals were mapped within red mud dumps No 2 and No 3: Hematite, Goetite, Jarosite and Magnetite. At the next stage the Scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM) of red mud mineral samples was carried out. The results show a good correlation between remote sensing techniques and standard mineralogical analysis (SEM) method. In both cases the principal iron oxides and hydroxides were observed. Combination of remote sensing and traditional mineralogical analysis methods allows to increase the reliability of assessing ore potential and efficiency of planning utilization technologies for wastes in technogenic deposits. In addition, processing of several ASTER images from different time gap (2004 and 2015) allows to trace in dynamics the transformation of mineral composition in red muds.
Square-root measurements and degradation of the resource state in port-based teleportation scheme
Authors: Studziński Michał , Mozrzymas Marek , Kopszak Piotr
Published: July 2022

Port-based teleportation (PBT) is a protocol of quantum teleportation in which a receiver does not have to apply correction to the transmitted state. In this protocol two spatially separated parties can teleport an unknown quantum state only by exploiting joint measurements on number of shared d-dimensional maximally entangled states (resource state) together with a state to be teleported and one way classical communication. In this paper we analyse for the first time the recycling protocol for the deterministic PBT beyond the qubit case. In the recycling protocol the main idea is to re-use the remaining resource state after one or many rounds of PBT for further processes of teleportation. The key property is to learn how much the underlying resource state degrades after every round of the teleportation process. We measure this by evaluating quantum fidelity between respective resource states. To do so we first present analysis of the square-root measurements used by the sender in PBT by exploiting the symmetries of the system. In particular, we show how to effectively evaluate their square-roots and composition. These findings allow us to present the explicit formula for the recycling fidelity involving only group-theoretic parameters describing irreducible representations in the Schur–Weyl duality. For the first time, we also analyse the degradation of the resource state for the optimal PBT scheme and show its degradation for all d ⩾ 2. In the both versions, the qubit case is discussed separately resulting in compact expression for fidelity, depending only on the number of shared entangled pairs.
High-performance thin-film transistor device architecture for flexible and printed electronics
Authors: Liang Kelly , Zhou Yuchen , McCulley Calla M , Xu Xin , Dodabalapur Ananth
Published: July 2022

A device design paradigm for thin-film transistors (TFTs) suitable for fabrication using methods available for flexible and printed electronics devices and circuits is described. The TFT architecture utilizes an array of nanospike-shaped electrodes as the source and drain electrodes. This results in improved carrier injection, greater gate control of the drain current, and lower threshold and operating voltage. The on-currents are also higher in comparison with standard flat edge electrode TFTs with equivalent channel dimensions. Importantly, the design is very tolerant of thick gate insulators. The proposed architecture requires one level of relatively high resolution patterning of the source and drain contacts, which can be potentially realized with methods that have been previously employed in flexible electronics such as nanoimprint lithography or roll-to-roll photolithography. The experimental data presented in this paper were obtained from TFTs fabricated using conventional fabrication methods, as the emphasis in this paper is on the device design and in demonstrating the advantageous features of the new architecture in future flexible systems.
Biocompatible organic electrochemical transistor on polymeric scaffold for wound healing monitoring
Authors: Cavallo Aida , Losi Paola , Buscemi Marianna , Kayal Tamer Al , Beccatelli Matteo , Soldani Giorgio , Coppedè Nicola
Published: July 2022

Nowadays, no wearable device is available to continuously monitor the ulcer status. The literature reports a pH range between 6.5 and 9 for chronic or infected wounds. This study aims to produce an innovative scaffold able to monitoring wound pH and therefore ulcers healing. The scaffold was manufactured by spray, phase-inversion technique using a synthetic biocompatible material, poly(ether)urethane-polydimethylsiloxane (PEtU-PDMS). A bi-layer micro-fibrillar tubular scaffold was obtained using: (a) 2% polymer solution and H2O as non-solvent; (b) 0.2% and H2O. Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is a biocompatible conductive polymer used as active material in a biosensor due to high sensitivity to positive ions in liquid environment allowing to determine ions concentration in easy and stable way. The biocompatible scaffold was functionalized by inkjet-printing of a PEDOT:PSS to develop organic electrochemical transistor (OECT) architecture. The electrochemical device was connected with electric contacts to create a channel and a gate electrode to control the modulation changes of the sensor. The morphological analysis of PEtU-PDMS scaffold surfaces was performed using a stereo-microscope after Sudan Black B staining while the PEDOT:PSS pattern by SEM microscopy. The device functionality was proved on human serum at different pH (between four and ten). The morphological analysis showed a dense, non-porous surface obtained with the 2% solution, while a porous surface was obtained with the 0.2% solution where the PEDOT:PSS was positioned. This feature, maintained after lyophilization and re-hydratation, enables a thin PEDOT:PSS film deposition in a continuous and homogeneus pattern. The characteristic of the device was tested showing the sensitivity to saline concentration and the effective functionality of the device. Moreover, the device response shows a dependence to pH variations as well as the transconductance. Obtained data suggest that the proposed sensorised scaffold could be used as a wearable detector for wound healing monitoring in patients affected by chronic lesions.
Gait analysis by using electric signals from a triboelectric nanogenerator
Authors: Gulahmadov Orkhan , Muradov Mustafa B , Kim Jiseok
Published: July 2022

Gait monitoring is one of important healthcare methods. Gait disorders can be analysed by gait monitoring and related diseases can be further diagnosed. Daily living gait data are obtained by sensors such as accelerometers. In this study, A triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) which is a well-known energy harvester was assembled into the accelerometer by attaching a drop-cast thin silicone rubber film to the movable mass and a thin nylon film to the fixed base of the accelerometer. Electrical outputs from this prepared TENG based gait monitoring device (TENGAIT) were investigated as the up-and-down reciprocating movement was applied by a Scotch yoke device in which the frequency of the up-and-down movement was controlled by an electric motor. The TENGAIT showed subsequent increase in voltage peaks from 2.5 V to 4 V and in current from 0.3 μA to 0.5 μA as the up-and-down frequency increased from 1 Hz to 5 Hz. The TENGAIT was then installed on a foot to obtain information about gait during walking on the spot in real-time. The voltage and the current showed 2.4 and 2.6 times increase, respectively, comparing the normal walking speed (0.8 Hz) to the fast walking speed (2 Hz). The light running could be distinguished from the fast walking by comparing gait speed and amplitude. And a gait cycle which includes the toe-touch, the heel-touch, the heel-off and the toe-off could be successfully analysed through changes in the shape of the current graph.
Experimental investigation and prediction modelling of slicing speed and surface roughness during wafer slicing using WEDM
Authors: Verma Anmol Singh , Singh Shankar
Published: July 2022

To keep up with the rising demand for silicon solar cells in the photovoltaic sector, an alternative slicing method that can achieve high throughput with minimal waste is required. In recent research efforts, Wire electro-discharge machining (WEDM) has become the possible alternative method for slicing. The experimental investigation focuses on slicing monocrystalline silicon using the WEDM process with a brass wire electrode of 250 μm in diameter. The face-centered central composite design was employed for planning and conducting experiments. The investigational experiments were conducted with five different process parameters serving as inputs: peak current, wire tension, wire feed rate, pulse on and off time. The response parameter measured was the slicing speed and the surface roughness. Further, comparisons were made between different kernel functions in support vector regression (SVR) for the prediction modelling of slicing speed and surface roughness. The difficulty in prediction modelling can be attributed to the complexity of the WEDM process, which is caused by the involvement of various process parameters. The primary purpose of this work is to determine the best predictive kernel among the linear, polynomial, radial basis function (Rbf), and sigmoid kernel functions based on the experimental data. The predictive performance of different kernel functions was evaluated and compared. Grid search was used for the hyper tuning of the kernel parameters. The radial basis function produces R2 of 99.751% and 97.552%, MSE values of 0.00046 and 0.00079, RSME values of 0.0215 and 0.02814, MAE values of 0.01645 and 0.01894, and MAPE values of 1.2% and 0.9% for slicing speed and surface roughness. Support vector regression with radial basis function gives better results in comparison to other kernel functions, which concludes that support vector regression with radial basis function is well suited for the prediction of slicing speed and surface roughness.
Snippets of the History of the American Journal of Epidemiology
Authors: Szklo Moyses
Published: July 2022

In this article, I present a brief summary of landmark events in the American Journal of Epidemiology, including its founding, the first few decades, the change in name, the increasing focus on nontransmissible disease, and selected key manuscripts. A list of developments that will likely result in new papers submitted to epidemiology journals are also described, and they include themes such as consequential epidemiology and the use of artificial intelligence methods in epidemiologic data analyses.
Neurocognitive and Psychosocial Characteristics of Pediatric Patients With Post-Acute/Long-COVID: A Retrospective Clinical Case Series
Authors: Ng Rowena , Vargas Gray , Jashar Dasal Tenzin , Morrow Amanda , Malone Laura A
Published: July 2022

Objective

Studies suggest a large number of patients have persistent symptoms following COVID-19 infection—a condition termed “long COVID.” Although children and parents often report cognitive difficulties after COVID, very few if any studies have been published including neuropsychological testing.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was completed for the first 18 patients referred for a neuropsychological evaluation from a multidisciplinary pediatric post-COVID clinic. The neuropsychological screening battery assessed verbal fluency and category switching, attention, working memory, processing speed, and verbal learning and memory. Patients’ caregivers also completed standardized questionnaires regarding day-to-day mood and behavior.

Results

At intake, the most common neurologic symptoms reported by caregivers were attention problems (83.3%), fatigue/lethargy (77.7%), sleep disturbance (77.7%), dizziness/vertigo (72.2%), and headaches (72.2%). On rating scales, most caregivers endorsed concerns for depressed mood and anxiety (14/15 and 12/15). A large proportion of patients had difficulties with attention (9/18) and depressed mood/anxiety (13/18) before COVID. On cognitive testing, the majority of the patients performed within or above broad average range (≥16th percentile) across most domains. However, a little over half of the patients performed below average on auditory attention measures.

Conclusions

Within our clinically referred sample, children who reported lingering cognitive symptoms after COVID-19 often had a preexisting history of attention and/or mood and anxiety concerns. Many of these patients performed below average in attention testing, but it remains to be seen whether this was due to direct effects of COVID, physical symptoms, and/or preexisting difficulties with attention or mood/anxiety.
The Impact of Comorbidities on Patient Outcomes in the Upper Body Lift: A Retrospective Review
Authors: Cinclair Richard , Shang Zhiguo , Aly Al , Kenkel Jeffrey
Published: July 2022

Background

Nonsurgical and surgical weight loss options have improved over the past several decades resulting in an increased number of patients who present with body contour deformities. This review focuses on the upper truncal deformity. This deformity is discernable by its residual tissue laxity in the upper arm, back, lateral chest, and breast.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the morbidity of this procedure when these regions are treated in one operative setting.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of patients who underwent an upper body lift for truncal deformities after massive weight loss by the senior author between August 2006 and December 2019 was performed. Patient comorbidities and demographics, preoperative parameters, operative factors, and minor and major complications were assessed.

Results

No intraoperative or major complications occurred. The overall complication rate was 71% (20/28), which were all minor and most related to wound breakdown. Using logistical regression analysis, we found that neither BMI nor amount of weight resected contributed to a higher complication rate in this cohort. Simple matching coefficients analysis identified anemia, hypertension, lifetime smoking history, celecoxib use, and multiple concurrent procedures as comorbidities and intraoperative factors with an increased risk for adverse outcomes.

Conclusions

This review helps define the role of upper body lift in the care of patients with massive weight loss and addresses the morbidity of a comprehensive approach to upper body deformity. Appropriate patient selection, preoperative patient counseling, sound operative technique, and supportive postoperative care can help to avoid adverse outcomes.

Level of Evidence: 4
Contrastive learning-based computational histopathology predict differential expression of cancer driver genes
Authors: Huang Haojie , Zhou Gongming , Liu Xuejun , Deng Lei , Wu Chen , Zhang Dachuan , Liu Hui
Published: July 2022

Motivation

Digital pathological analysis is run as the main examination used for cancer diagnosis. Recently, deep learning-driven feature extraction from pathology images is able to detect genetic variations and tumor environment, but few studies focus on differential gene expression in tumor cells.

Results

In this paper, we propose a self-supervised contrastive learning framework, HistCode, to infer differential gene expression from whole slide images (WSIs). We leveraged contrastive learning on large-scale unannotated WSIs to derive slide-level histopathological features in latent space, and then transfer it to tumor diagnosis and prediction of differentially expressed cancer driver genes. Our experiments showed that our method outperformed other state-of-the-art models in tumor diagnosis tasks, and also effectively predicted differential gene expression. Interestingly, we found the genes with higher fold change can be more precisely predicted. To intuitively illustrate the ability to extract informative features from pathological images, we spatially visualized the WSIs colored by the attention scores of image tiles. We found that the tumor and necrosis areas were highly consistent with the annotations of experienced pathologists. Moreover, the spatial heatmap generated by lymphocyte-specific gene expression patterns was also consistent with the manually labeled WSIs.
Autistic Parents’ Personal Experiences of Parenting and Support: Messages from an Online Focus Group
Authors: Hwang Se Kwang , Heslop Philip
Published: July 2022

Social work with autistic adults should be operated within principles of personalisation and strength-based approach. Whilst many parents are diagnosed on the autistic spectrum as adults, their needs, different parenting styles and capabilities have been often misunderstood, or seldom respected by professionals. To address this gap, this study explored autistic parents’ experiences of parenting and support. In order to examine ‘real-life’ through the parent’s own points of view, an online focus group was used to explore seven autistic parents’ own perspectives and experiences. Data were analysed via thematic techniques. This study found that the parents claimed that autism may not impact always on their parenting capacity, and, when it does, they can succeed in raising their children, especially their autistic children, if they are provided with appropriate support services. But their parenting style and capabilities were misunderstood by professionals who used traditional pathologising assumptions on parental capacity. This study concluded that dismantling stereotypical norms of autism and lack of knowledge of autism within professionals is needed to change to properly assess autistic parent’s needs and their capacity using strength-based approach.
A novel framework to estimate cognitive impairment via finger interaction with digital devices
Authors: Holmes Ashley A , Tripathi Shikha , Katz Emily , Mondesire-Crump Ijah , Mahajan Rahul , Ritter Aaron , Arroyo-Gallego Teresa , Giancardo Luca
Published: July 2022

Measuring cognitive function is essential for characterizing brain health and tracking cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s Disease and other neurodegenerative conditions. Current tools to accurately evaluate cognitive impairment typically rely on a battery of questionnaires administered during clinical visits which is essential for the acquisition of repeated measurements in longitudinal studies. Previous studies have shown that the remote data collection of passively monitored daily interaction with personal digital devices can measure motor signs in the early stages of synucleinopathies, as well as facilitate longitudinal patient assessment in the real-world scenario with high patient compliance. This was achieved by the automatic discovery of patterns in the time series of keystroke dynamics, i.e. the time required to press and release keys, by machine learning algorithms. In this work, our hypothesis is that the typing patterns generated from user-device interaction may reflect relevant features of the effects of cognitive impairment caused by neurodegeneration. We use machine learning algorithms to estimate cognitive performance through the analysis of keystroke dynamic patterns that were extracted from mechanical and touchscreen keyboard use in a dataset of cognitively normal (n = 39, 51% male) and cognitively impaired subjects (n = 38, 60% male). These algorithms are trained and evaluated using a novel framework that integrates items from multiple neuropsychological and clinical scales into cognitive subdomains to generate a more holistic representation of multifaceted clinical signs. In our results, we see that these models based on typing input achieve moderate correlations with verbal memory, non-verbal memory and executive function subdomains [Spearman’s ρ between 0.54 (P < 0.001) and 0.42 (P < 0.001)] and a weak correlation with language/verbal skills [Spearman’s ρ 0.30 (P < 0.05)]. In addition, we observe a moderate correlation between our typing-based approach and the Total Montreal Cognitive Assessment score [Spearman’s ρ 0.48 (P < 0.001)]. Finally, we show that these machine learning models can perform better by using our subdomain framework that integrates the information from multiple neuropsychological scales as opposed to using the individual items that make up these scales. Our results support our hypothesis that typing patterns are able to reflect the effects of neurodegeneration in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease and that this new subdomain framework both helps the development of machine learning models and improves their interpretability.
A financial straitjacket? Côte d’Ivoire’s National Development Banks
Authors: Quist Georges
Published: July 2022

The lack of financing options for African firms has led to a reappraisal of the role National Development Banks (NDBs) can play in promoting structural transformation the region. Through an analysis of bank data and policy reports, I argue that the focus on corruption by the mainstream to explain the lacklustre performance of NDBs in developing and emerging economies is overemphasised. Specifically, such arguments fail to account for underlying structural and relational asymmetries between financial sector participants, which make it difficult for NDBs to accomplish their mission. In Côte d’Ivoire, these constraints are characterised by a monetary system inherited from the colonial period that prioritises exchange rate stability over credit creation. The increasing push by International Financial Institutions to commercialise state banking is also causing the main Ivorian NDB (the Banque Nationale d’Investissement) to prioritise financial intermediation over the provision of credit to enterprises in productive sectors.
Connecting financialisation and structural change: a critical appraisal regarding Brazil
Authors: Corrêa Mariana Finello , Feijo Carmem
Published: July 2022

The contribution of this paper is to discuss the particularities of financialisation in peripheral economies, emphasising the channels through which financialisation contributes to redefining their trajectory of structural change. This paper has, as a reference, the structural regression of the Brazilian case, which is characterised by the deindustrialisation and trade specialisation marked by export reprimarisation. The aspects covered are the financialisation of non-financial corporations, of the exchange rate and of the determination of the commodity prices, which are associated with the Dutch disease.
From novel discovery tools and biomarkers to precision medicine—basic cardiovascular science highlights of 2021/22
Authors: Evans Paul C , Davidson Sean M , Wojta Johann , Bäck Magnus , Bollini Sveva , Brittan Mairi , Catapano Alberico L , Chaudhry Bill , Cluitmans Matthijs , Gnecchi Massimiliano , Guzik Tomasz J , Hoefer Imo , Madonna Rosalinda , Monteiro João P , Morawietz Henning , Osto Elena , Padró Teresa , Sluimer Judith C , Tocchetti Carlo Gabriele , Van der Heiden Kim , Vilahur Gemma , Waltenberger Johannes , Weber Christian
Published: July 2022

Here, we review the highlights of cardiovascular basic science published in 2021 and early 2022 on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology Council for Basic Cardiovascular Science. We begin with non-coding RNAs which have emerged as central regulators cardiovascular biology, and then discuss how technological developments in single-cell ‘omics are providing new insights into cardiovascular development, inflammation, and disease. We also review recent discoveries on the biology of extracellular vesicles in driving either protective or pathogenic responses. The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2021 recognized the importance of the molecular basis of mechanosensing and here we review breakthroughs in cardiovascular sensing of mechanical force. We also summarize discoveries in the field of atherosclerosis including the role of clonal haematopoiesis of indeterminate potential, and new mechanisms of crosstalk between hyperglycaemia, lipid mediators, and inflammation. The past 12 months also witnessed major advances in the field of cardiac arrhythmia including new mechanisms of fibrillation. We also focus on inducible pluripotent stem cell technology which has demonstrated disease causality for several genetic polymorphisms in long-QT syndrome and aortic valve disease, paving the way for personalized medicine approaches. Finally, the cardiovascular community has continued to better understand COVID-19 with significant advancement in our knowledge of cardiovascular tropism, molecular markers, the mechanism of vaccine-induced thrombotic complications and new anti-viral therapies that protect the cardiovascular system.
Percutaneous drainage of a localized biatrial haematoma causing regional tamponade in a patient with prior coronary artery bypass graft surgery: a case report
Authors: Achim Alexandru , Toia Damien , Leibundgut Gregor
Published: July 2022

Background

Regional cardiac tamponade presented as posterior extrapericardial haematomas compressing both atria, with cardiogenic obstructive shock due to inflow abolition is a rare cause of post-percutaneous coronary intervention vascular collapse.

Case summary

We present such a case where computed tomography-guided anterior pericardiocentesis decompressed the atria and restored cardiac output.

Discussion

Prior coronary artery bypass grafting should not be considered protective from cardiac tamponade in patients in whom perforation occurs, because loculated effusions can develop beneath adhesions of the pericardium and compress various cardiac structures (such as the left atrium or the right ventricle); they appear several hours after the intervention and cause atypical haemodynamic manifestations.
Patiromer for the management of hyperkalemia in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: the DIAMOND trial
Authors: Butler Javed , Anker Stefan D , Lund Lars H , Coats Andrew J S , Filippatos Gerasimos , Siddiqi Tariq Jamal , Friede Tim , Fabien Vincent , Kosiborod Mikhail , Metra Marco , Piña Ileana L , Pinto Fausto , Rossignol Patrick , van der Meer Peter , Bahit Cecilia , Belohlavek Jan , Böhm Michael , Brugts Jasper J , Cleland John G F , Ezekowitz Justin , Bayes-Genis Antoni , Gotsman Israel , Goudev Assen , Khintibidze Irakli , Lindenfeld Joann , Mentz Robert J , Merkely Bela , Montes Eliodoro Castro , Mullens Wilfried , Nicolau Jose C , Parkhomenko Aleksandr , Ponikowski Piotr , Seferovic Petar M , Senni Michele , Shlyakhto Evgeny , Cohen-Solal Alain , Szecsödy Peter , Jensen Klaus , Dorigotti Fabio , Weir Matthew R , Pitt Bertram
Published: July 2022

Aims

To investigate the impact of patiromer on the serum potassium level and its ability to enable specified target doses of renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitor (RAASi) use in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

Methods and results

A total of 1642 patients with HFrEF and current or a history of RAASi-related hyperkalemia were screened and 1195 were enrolled in the run-in phase with patiromer and optimization of the RAASi therapy [≥50% recommended dose of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker/angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor, and 50 mg of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA) spironolactone or eplerenone]. Specified target doses of the RAASi therapy were achieved in 878 (84.6%) patients; 439 were randomized to patiromer and 439 to placebo. All patients, physicians, and outcome assessors were blinded to treatment assignment. The primary endpoint was between-group difference in the adjusted mean change in serum potassium. Five hierarchical secondary endpoints were assessed. At the end of treatment, the median (interquartile range) duration of follow-up was 27 (13–43) weeks, the adjusted mean change in potassium was +0.03 mmol/l in the patiromer group and +0.13 mmol/l in the placebo group [difference in the adjusted mean change between patiromer and placebo: −0.10 mmol/l (95% confidence interval, CI −0.13, 0.07); P < 0.001]. Risk of hyperkalemia >5.5 mmol/l [hazard ratio (HR) 0.63; 95% CI 0.45, 0.87; P = 0.006), reduction of MRA dose (HR 0.62; 95% CI 0.45, 0.87; P = 0.006), and total adjusted hyperkalemia events/100 person-years (77.7 vs. 118.2; HR 0.66; 95% CI 0.53, 0.81; P < 0.001) were lower with patiromer. Hyperkalemia-related morbidity-adjusted events (win ratio 1.53, P < 0.001) and total RAASi use score (win ratio 1.25, P = 0.048) favored the patiromer arm. Adverse events were similar between groups.

Conclusion

Concurrent use of patiromer and high-dose MRAs reduces the risk of recurrent hyperkalemia (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03888066).
Relationship between patient-centred care and advance care planning among home medical care patients in Japan: the Zaitaku evaluative initiatives and outcome study
Authors: Hayashi Shinu , Shirahige Yutaka , Fujioka Satoshi , Tsugihashi Yukio , Iida Hidezaku , Hirose Misaki , Yasunaka Masakazu , Kurita Noriaki ,   ZEVIOUS Group
Published: July 2022

Background

There is a growing need to realize high-quality end-of-life care at home that respects the patient’s wishes.

Objective

To examine the association between the quality of primary care and advance care planning (ACP) participation among patients receiving home-based medical care.

Methods

In this multicentre, cross-sectional study, 29 home medical care clinics in Japan were included. Adult Japanese patients receiving home medical care were surveyed to assess their consideration of ACP. The quality of primary care, which reflects patient-centredness, was assessed with the Japanese version of the Primary Care Assessment Tool-Short Form (JPCAT-SF). Information on the clinical conditions that require home medical care was collected from physicians.

Results

Of the 194 patients surveyed from 29 home medical services, 62 patients (32%) showed signs of ACP participation. Lack of opportunities was the most common reason for not participating in the ACP. In a multivariable-adjusted generalized estimating equation, primary care quality was associated with ACP participation (per 10-point increase, adjusted odds ratio: 1.96, 95% confidence interval: 1.51–2.56). In addition, all domains of the JPCAT-SF were associated with ACP participation.

Conclusions

Patient-centredness in home medical care facilitates the initiation of ACP participation.
Preliminary investigation of the student-delivered Community Outreach teleheAlth program for Covid education and Health promotion (COACH)
Authors: Yang Michelle C , Clayton Cam , Harris Devin , Pelletier Chelsea , Schmidt Julia , Zwicker Jill G , Sakakibara Brodie M
Published: July 2022

Background

COVID-19 public health restrictions (i.e. physical distancing) compromise individuals’ ability to self-manage their health behaviours and may increase the risks of adverse health events.

Objectives

To evaluate the student-delivered Community Outreach teleheAlth program for Covid education and Health promotion (COACH) on health-directed behaviour (self-management) among older adults (≥65 years of age, n = 75). Secondary objectives estimated the influence of COACH on perceived depression, anxiety, and stress; social support; health-related quality of life; health promotion self-efficacy; and other self-management domains.

Methods

COACH was developed to provide chronic disease management and prevention support among older adults via telephone or videoconferencing platforms (i.e. Zoom). In this single-group, pre-post study, our primary outcome was measured using the health-directed behaviour subscale of the Health Education Impact Questionnaire. Secondary measures included the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale, Medical Outcomes Study: Social Support Survey, MOS Short Form-36, and Self-Rated Abilities for Health Practices Scale. Paired sample t-tests were used to analyse outcome changes.

Results

Mean age of participants was 72.4 years (58.7% female; 80% ≥2 chronic conditions). Health-directed behaviour significantly improved after COACH (P < 0.001, d = 0.45). Improved health promotion self-efficacy (P < 0.001, d = 0.44) and decreased mental health were also observed (P < 0.001, d = −1.69).

Discussion

COACH likely contributed to improved health-directed behaviour and health promotion self-efficacy despite the diminished mental health-related quality of life during COVID-19. Our findings also highlight the benefits of using health professional students for the delivery of virtual health promotion programs.

Clinical Trial Information

ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04492527
Role of pressure and pore microstructure on seismic attenuation and dispersion of fluid-saturated rocks: laboratory experiments and theoretical modelling
Authors: He Yan-Xiao , Wang Shangxu , Xi Bo , Tang Genyang , Yin Hanjun , Zhao Liming , Sun Chao , Ma Xiaoyi
Published: July 2022

Understanding the effects of pressure and rock microstructure on seismic elastic properties of fully saturated rocks is of considerable importance in a range of geophysical applications, especially at seismic frequency range. A recently proposed theoretical model of squirt attenuation and dispersion can be used to interpret the stress and frequency dependence of elastic properties on the basis of a triple porosity structure. The poroelastic model requires the knowledge of a variety of pore microstructure parameters, in particular, the compliant pores with a discrete distribution of aspect ratio. We performed laboratory measurements of (compressional and shear wave) velocity dispersion and attenuation, associated with the pressure-related closure of compliant pores on three dry and wet sandstones, to verify the effects of squirt flow arising from compressibility heterogeneities in the rock microstructure on the pressure dependence of dynamic elastic moduli and attenuation. Ultrasonic velocities experimentally measured on dry rocks were applied to extract pressure-dependent pore aspect distribution of compliant pores and the effective porosity of three types of pores with distinct aspect ratios, via fitting of the poroelastic model to the pressure dependence of elastic compressibilities. Under the assumption of frequency-independent dry elastic properties, inferred velocities and the associated attenuation of the saturated rocks from the forced oscillation experiments, which are still scarcely investigated, are in fairly good agreement with the predictions of the squirt model of three porosity types at seismic frequencies. The Gassmann's relation was found, nevertheless, underpredicts the ultrasonic saturated velocity measurements. The results validate applicability of the recently developed squirt model to account for dispersion and attenuation of phase velocities at varying effective pressures.
Competitiveness anddynamiccumulative causation in an export-led growing economy
Authors: Dávila-Fernández Marwil J , Oreiro Jose Luis
Published: July 2022

The role of the real exchange rate (RER) in explaining long-run processes of catching-up and falling-behind continues to be a question of central importance among alternative theories of growth and distribution. Existing empirical evidence suggests a positive association between exchange rates in levels and growth, especially in developing countries, though a currency depreciation has adverse effects. While these two elements have been separately incorporated into demand-led growth theories, a comprehensive assessment of the dynamic interaction between them is still missing. This article attempts to fill such a gap in the literature by developing an export-led growth model in which price and non-price competitiveness respond to the level and variation of the RER. In equilibrium, relative prices and the fundamentals of the productive structure are simultaneously determined. A more depreciated exchange rate and higher non-price competitiveness are associated with a higher rate of growth. It is shown that the interplay between a destabilizing force from the goods market, and a stabilizing mechanism from the labor market, might give rise to persistent and endogenous long-run cycles of structural change. The model is used to revisit the historical experience of East Asia (EA) and Latin America (LA) in the post-war period. We show our system fits crucial stylized facts, particularly the tendency of LA to have a more appreciated RER, its lower non-price competitiveness and dynamic economies of scale, and stronger distributive conflict, resulting in less growth and greater volatility.
Generalized Minors and Tensor Invariants
Authors: Le Ian , Luo Sammy
Published: July 2022

In the paper [1], the authors define functions on double Bruhat cells, which they call generalized minors. By relating certain double Bruhat cells to the spaces $\operatorname {Conf}_3 {\mathcal {A}}_G$ and $\operatorname {Conf}_4 {\mathcal {A}}_G$, we give formulas for these generalized minors as tensor invariants. This allows us to verify certain weight identities conjectured in [7]. We then show that the grading of these tensor invariants is equivalent information to the quiver for the cluster structure on $\operatorname {Conf}_3 {\mathcal {A}}_G$. This leads to a simple combinatorial construction of cluster structures on the moduli space of framed local systems ${\mathcal {X}}_{G^{\prime},S}$ and ${\mathcal {A}}_{G,S}$.
Comparative biological network analysis for differentially expressed proteins as a function of bacilysin biosynthesis in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Kutnu Meltem , İşlerel Elif Tekin , Tunçbağ Nurcan , Özcengiz Gülay
Published: July 2022

The Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis produces a diverse range of secondary metabolites with different structures and activities. Among them, bacilysin is an enzymatically synthesized dipeptide that consists of L-alanine and L-anticapsin. Previous research by our group has suggested bacilysin’s role as a pleiotropic molecule in its producer, B. subtilis PY79. However, the nature of protein interactions in the absence of bacilysin has not been defined. In the present work, we constructed a protein–protein interaction subnetwork by using Omics Integrator based on our recent comparative proteomics data obtained from a bacilysin-silenced strain, OGU1. Functional enrichment analyses on the resulting networks pointed to certain putatively perturbed pathways such as citrate cycle, quorum sensing and secondary metabolite biosynthesis. Various molecules, which were absent from the experimental data, were included in the final network. We believe that this study can guide further experiments in the identification and confirmation of protein–protein interactions in B. subtilis.
Exploring the impact of employee engagement and patient safety
Authors: Scott Grace , Hogden Anne , Taylor Robyn , Mauldon Emily
Published: July 2022

Background

Health service administrators are continually investigating new ways to improve the safety and quality of health services. A positive and powerful relationship between employee engagement and patient safety has been suggested in the research literature, and steps can be taken by employers to enhance engagement to improve the safety of health services, particularly considering the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Objective

The aim of this review was to explore the current literature on the impact of employee engagement on patient safety.

Methods

A review of peer-reviewed literature relating to the impact of employee engagement on patient safety within health services between January 2015 and May 2021 was conducted using Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Medline Complete, Scopus, Health Business Elite and Business Source Ultimate databases. A search of grey literature using the Bielefeld Academic Search Engine database was also completed.

Results

Of relevant articles, 3693 were identified, of which 15 studies were included in this review. Ten articles measured employee engagement using existing, validated tools, whereas patient safety was most frequently assessed through surveys seeking staff member’s perceptions of safety or the quality of care they provide. Overall, there appeared to be a positive correlation between employee engagement and patient safety, but the strength of the relationship varied.

Conclusion

Anecdotal accounts of improving employee engagement and improving patient safety abound, and the evidence reviewed appears in agreement. However, research into the impact of employee engagement on patient safety is in its early stages. As health service managers consider the best use of funding to support safe and high-quality care, evidence to support the positive impact employee engagement has on patient safety may be useful in managing the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.
C282Y/H63D Compound Heterozygosity Is a Low Penetrance Genotype for Iron Overload-related Disease
Authors: Hasan S M Mahmudul , Farrell James , Borgaonkar Mark
Published: July 2022

Background

Hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) occurs due to mutations in the HFE gene. While the C282Y mutation is the most common genotype reported in HH, other genotypes are found less frequently, indicating variable degrees of penetrance. We studied the penetrance of the C282Y/H63D compound heterozygote genotype in developing clinically significant iron overload.

Methods

We have completed a retrospective analysis on every individual within Newfoundland & Labrador who were diagnosed as C282Y/H63D compound heterozygote between 1996 and 2009 through a molecular genetics study. We collected data for up to 10 years following the initial genotyping using electronic health records, including laboratory values, phlebotomy status, radiologic reports and clinic records. Iron overload status was classified based on the HealthIron study.

Results

Between 1996 and 2009, 247 individuals with available health records tested positive for C282Y/H63D compound heterozygosity. Over the 10 years of our study, 5.3% of patients exhibited iron overload-related disease on the background of documented iron overload. Including these individuals, 10.1% of patients had documented iron overload, 23.1% of patients had a provisional iron overload and the remaining 66.8% of patients had no evidence of iron overload. Only 44 patients had documented phlebotomies, likely based on their severe phenotype at baseline. Despite phlebotomy, the prevalence of iron overload was higher among these patients. The penetrance of compound heterozygosity was also significantly higher among men (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

C282Y/H63D compound heterozygosity is a low penetrance genotype in HH. This is the largest reported cohort of C282Y/H63D compound heterozygotes in North America with an extended follow-up.
Logical foundations: Personal perspective
Authors: Gurevich Yuri
Published: July 2022

We illustrate the glorious history of logical foundations and discuss the uncertain future.