bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and molecular characterization of penicillin‐nonsusceptible Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates recovered from invasive infections in a pre‐pneumococcal vaccine era
Authors: Mosadegh Mehrdad , Habibi Ghahfarokhi Soheila , Ahmadi Ali , Pourmand Mohammad Reza , Erfani Yousef , Mashhadi Rahil
Published: June 2022

Background

Given the significant role of penicillin‐nonsusceptible Streptococcus pneumoniae in inducing severe infectious diseases, identifying serotypes and genotypes that can mediate antimicrobial resistance has become a pillar of treatment strategies. This study aims to determine the correlation between the minimum inhibitory concentration of antimicrobial agents and amino acid mutations in penicillin‐binding proteins. Moreover, molecular serotyping and multiple‐locus variable number tandem repeat analysis typing were first‐ever performed to characterize the invasive penicillin‐nonsusceptible S. pneumoniae isolates in Iran.

Methods

Of 149 isolates, antimicrobial susceptibility tests were performed against penicillin, ceftriaxone, and cefotaxime by the MIC Test Strip, and sequence analysis of the pbp genes was performed through PCR‐sequencing method. All penicillin‐nonsusceptible S. pneumoniae isolates were serotyped and genotyped by sequential multiplex PCR and multiple‐locus variable‐number tandem repeat analysis, respectively.

Results

Among pneumococcal isolates, 53 isolates were classified as penicillin‐nonsusceptible S. pneumoniae, of which 38 (71.7%) and 15 (28.3%) were resistant and intermediate to penicillin, respectively. Furthermore, ceftriaxone‐ and cefotaxime‐nonsusceptible pneumococci constituted 33 (62.2%) and 29 cases (54.7%), respectively. Of note, there were 8 and 41 different serotypes and multiple‐locus variable‐number tandem repeat analysis types, respectively.

Conclusions

Due to the increasing resistance to antimicrobial agents, the most efficient approach to preventing pneumococcal infection mortality as vaccine‐preventable diseases is focusing on wide‐spectrum vaccination. Based on our findings, the 13‐valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine could considerably reduce the incidence of invasive pneumococcal diseases due to the high rate of serotype coverage.
Service use and barriers to care among homeless veterans: Results from the National Veteran Homeless and Other Poverty Experiences (NV‐HOPE) study
Authors: Tsai Jack , Kelton Katherine
Published: June 2022

The objective of this study was to examine type of services U.S. veterans seek when they experience homelessness, characteristics associated with service use, and reasons for not using services. Data from a 2021 nationally representative survey of 1004 low‐income U.S. veterans were analyzed with descriptive and multivariable analyses. One‐quarter of low‐income U.S. veterans with experiences of homelessness reported using homeless services while they were homeless and about 27% reported using U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare or benefits while homeless. Black and Hispanic veterans were more likely to use both homeless services and VA services while homeless than veterans of other race/ethnic groups. The most common barriers to services were: veterans felt they did not need help, they did not have information about services, there was stigma and shame, and transportation barriers were encountered. These findings suggest veterans use various VA and community‐based homeless and healthcare services, but they do experience barriers that may be improved with better public information and care coordination to improve service uptake among homeless veterans.
Purification of creosol applying green heterogeneous extraction technology
Authors: Yin Junjun , Chen Xiaoqian , Wang Duo
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

Cresol is an important industrial raw material, which is mainly derived from lignocellulosic biomass. High‐purity creosol can significantly improve the quality of its downstream product. The extraction of creosol with ultra‐high purity (>99.5%) and low cost has attracted extensive attention in recent years. A new and simple green heterogeneous extraction technology for separating ultra‐high‐purity creosol is proposed in this paper.

RESULTS

When a certain amount of creosol is gradually dripped into Ca2+ solution, the chemicals in three reaction stages are successively monitored by in situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The molar ratio of creosol and Ca2+ in the end‐product of this reaction reaches four. Three different chemical bonds in three reaction stages are successively monitored: ion bond, coordination bond formed by ionic compound, and coordination bond formed by creosol molecule. This collected end‐product can be decomposed easily. The vapors released in this decomposed process is determined to be high‐purity creosol. Meanwhile, the molar ratio of creosol to Ca2+ in the residual solid after decomposition of the end‐product reduces to two.

CONCLUSION

Based on the reaction mechanism between Ca2+ and creosol, a new route for the separation and purification of creosol was proposed in this study. The creosol extraction rate reached 91.5% when excessive Ca2+ solution was added to the creosol solution. The purity of creosol reaches up to 99.7% when the end‐product of the reaction between Ca2+ and creosol is decomposed at 170 °C. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Corrosion inhibition of hybrid H2QS/CaO additives for AA5052 alloy in alkaline solution
Authors: Yang Junyu , Zhang Daquan , Gao Lixin , Li Chunping
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

The parasitic H2 evolution reaction (HER) is the main problem preventing the development of the commercial Al‐air battery (AAB) in alkaline solution. The purpose of this study is to investigate a hybrid additive for alkaline AAB. The inhibition effect of the additives for HER is studied by hydrogen evolution test, electrochemical measurements, and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The stability of the battery and the anode utilization rate in alkaline solution are also investigated.

RESULTS

Results showed that the maximum inhibition efficiency was 86.52% for 0.08 g L−1 CaO + 0.5 mmol L−1 H2QS, and that the anode utilization rate increased to 90.7%. A spectrum analysis, including infrared, ultraviolet, and fluorescence, was conducted to analyze the corrosion inhibition mechanism. The chelation of the quinoline ring with Al3+ ions and the electrostatic interaction of sulfonic groups with Ca2+ ions produce a strong synergistic effect.

CONCLUSION

The hybrid H2QS/CaO additive has synergistic effects to help form a stable composite film that significantly retards the hydrogen evolution reaction of the Al alloy anode for the alkaline AAB. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Joost J. Oppenheim: 1934–2022
Authors: Wahl Sharon M , Young Howard A
Published: June 2022

Joost J. Oppenheim was born in 1934 in Venlo, Netherlands and died at the age of 87 on May 14, 2022. Not one to retire or rest on his laurels, Joe remained a Senior Investigator and Head of the Cellular Immunology Section in the Cancer Innovation Laboratory of the National Cancer Institute until his passing. In the years between 1934 and 2022, Joe lived a life filled with peril, poverty, persistence, brilliance, discovery, recognition, family and satisfaction. With Joe's passing comes the end of an era and the loss of a Father of Cytokine Research who was an amazing investigator, colleague, mentor and friend.
Recent development in foam‐mat drying process: Influence of foaming agents and foam properties on powder properties
Authors: Çalışkan Koç Gülşah , Tekgül Yeliz , Yüksel Ayşe Nur , Khanashyam Anandu Chandra , Kothakota Anjineyulu , Pandiselvam Ravi
Published: June 2022

Foam‐mat drying is an alternative dehydration technique to tray, drum, freeze, and spray drying. Foam‐mat drying can be used to obtain high‐quality powders from fruit juices and other heat‐sensitive food products which are difficult to dry using traditional drying techniques. In foam‐mat drying, the product to be dried is first converted into a stable foam by whipping, bubbling, or shaking in the presence of a foaming agent and foam stabilizer. The foam has been significantly increased the surface area of the product and thereby decreasing the time, temperature, and cost needed for drying. The selection of a foaming agent, foam stabilizer, foaming technique, and drying method is crucial in determining the final quality of the dried product. Due to its simplicity, faster drying, cost‐effectiveness, and improved product quality, foam‐mat drying is getting attention from researchers and industrialists worldwide. In this context, this review aims to present an overview of the recent advances in foam‐mat drying along with its cost economics and industrial potential.
Risk of respiratory tract infections and serious infections in psoriasis patients treated with biologics: Results from the BioCAPTURE registry
Authors: van der Schoot Lara S. , Groenewoud Hans J. M. M. , van Gelder Marleen M. H. J. , Otero Marisol E. , Arnold W. Peter , Berends Maartje A. M. , De Bruin‐Weller Marjolein S. , Dodemont Sharon R. P. , Kleinpenning Marloes M. , Koetsier Marjolein I. A. , Kop Else N. , Körver John E. M. , Kuijpers Astrid L. A. , van Lümig Paula P. , Mommers Johannes M. , Njoo Marcellus D. , Ossenkoppele Paul M. , Tupker Ron A. , Visch M. Birgitte , Weppner‐Parren Lizelotte J. M. T. , de Jong Elke M. G. J. , van den Reek Juul M. P. A.
Published: June 2022

Background

Limited real‐world studies are available comparing infection risk between biologics for psoriasis.

Objectives

The primary aim was to determine the differential effect of currently available biologics on the risk of respiratory tract infections (RTI) among psoriasis patients in a real‐world setting. Secondary aims were to explore the differential risk of all types of serious infections (SI) between biologics and to provide an early overview of SARS‐CoV‐2 infections during the pre‐vaccine era.

Methods

Crude incidence rates of RTI and SI were calculated per 100 patient‐years (PY) per biologic using prospective BioCAPTURE data. Negative Binomial Regression modeling was used to explore the risk of RTI. Frailty Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to estimate hazard ratios for the risk of the first SI. Confounders adjusted for both models were selected by a directed acyclic graph. A post hoc exploratory analysis of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection incidence rates during 2020 was performed.

Results

We included 714 patients with 1325 treatment episodes (3607.7PY between 2005 and 2020), in which 2224 RTI and 63 SI occurred. Among RTI, 1.3% were serious. The crude incidence rates were 61.7 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 59.1–64.3) per 100PY for RTI, and 1.8 (95% CI: 1.4–2.2) per 100PY for SI. Confounder adjusted analyses showed no differential risk of RTI between adalimumab, etanercept, infliximab, ustekinumab, secukinumab, ixekizumab and guselkumab. For SI, no differential risk was found between biologics either. Extended single‐center data showed 3.8 (95% CI: 2.2–6.1) SARS‐CoV‐2 infections per 100PY in 2020.

Conclusions

Confounder adjusted analyses showed no differential risks of RTI or SI between included biologics (adalimumab, etanercept, infliximab, ustekinumab, secukinumab, ixekizumab and guselkumab) in a prospective psoriasis patients cohort. In general, absolute numbers of all types of SI were low.
Effect of desmopressin on bleeding during endoscopic sinus surgery: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Akbarpour Maliheh , Jalali Mir Mohammad , Akbari Maryam , Haddadi Soudabeh , Fani Ghaffar
Published: June 2022

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of local nasal desmopressin premedication on blood loss and the quality of surgical field in Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS).

Material and methods

In a randomized clinical trial, patients referred for FESS to treat their bilateral chronic rhinosinusitis were recruited. The participants were adults (≥18 years). They were randomly assigned (1:1:1) to receive low‐dose (20 μg) or high‐dose (40 μg) intranasal desmopressin (DDAVP) or placebo 60 min before the induction of general anesthesia. Standard FESS was performed by the same surgeon. The primary outcomes were volume of intraoperative bleeding and the quality of surgical field. Clean surgical field was defined as a score ≤2 on the Boezaart grading system.

Results

A total of 120 patients were included on an intention‐to‐treat basis (mean age: 41.0 years; 40 women, 80 men). There were no significant differences in primary outcomes between low‐dose DDAVP and placebo. As for the volume of blood loss, however, there was a significant difference between high‐dose DDAVP and placebo (mean difference: 29.6 ml; adjusted Cohen's d: −1.02; p < .001). Also, in the high‐dose DDAVP, the probability of having a good surgical field over time was about two times higher than in the placebo group (RRs for first and second surgical sides: 1.89 and 2.18). The number needed to treat for the two time points was 1.6 and 1.3, respectively.

Conclusion

The present study showed that the use of desmopressin at a dose of 40 μg 1 h before surgery can reduce bleeding and improve the quality of the surgical field. Further studies are recommended to be able to generalize these findings to other ENT surgeries.

Level of evidence

1b.
Montgomery‐Åsberg Depression Rating Scale factors in treatment‐resistant depression at onset of treatment: Derivation, replication, and change over time during treatment with esketamine
Authors: Borentain Stephane , Gogate Jagadish , Williamson David , Carmody Thomas , Trivedi Madhukar , Jamieson Carol , Cabrera Patricia , Popova Vanina , Wajs Ewa , DiBernardo Allitia , Daly Ella J.
Published: June 2022

Objective

Derive and confirm factor structure of the Montgomery‐Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) in patients with treatment‐resistant depression (TRD) and evaluate how the factors evident at baseline change over 4 weeks of esketamine treatment.

Methods

Two similarly‐designed, short‐term TRANSFORM trials randomized adults to esketamine or matching placebo nasal spray, each with a newly‐initiated oral antidepressant, for 4 weeks (TRANSFORM‐1: N = 342 patients; TRANSFORM‐2: N = 223 patients). The factor structure of MADRS item scores at baseline was determined by exploratory factor analysis in TRANSFORM‐2 and corroborated by confirmatory factor analysis in TRANSFORM‐1. Change in MADRS factor scores from baseline (day 1) to the end of the 28‐day double‐blind treatment phase of TRANSFORM‐2 was analyzed using a mixed‐effects model for repeated measures (MMRM).

Results

Three factors were identified based on analysis of MADRS items: Factor 1 labeled affective and anhedonic symptoms (apparent sadness, reported sadness, lassitude, inability to feel), Factor 2 labeled anxiety and vegetative symptoms (inner tension, reduced sleep, reduced appetite, concentration difficulties), and Factor 3 labeled hopelessness (pessimistic thoughts, suicidal thoughts). The three‐factor structure observed in TRANSFORM‐2 was verified in TRANSFORM‐1. Treatment benefit at 24 h with esketamine versus placebo was observed on all 3 factors and continued throughout the 4‐week double‐blind treatment period.

Conclusions

A three‐factor structure for MADRS appears to generalize to TRD. All three factors improved over 4 weeks of treatment with esketamine nasal spray.
Molecular design of monomers by considering the dielectric constant and stability of the polymer
Authors: Taniwaki Hiroaki , Kaneko Hiromasa
Published: June 2022

The dielectric constant (DC) and glass transition temperature (Tg) properties were used to design polymers by quantitative structure–property relationship (QSPR). Using polymer data sets that included homopolymers and copolymers, property prediction models were constructed using the polymer properties and molecular descriptors calculated from monomer structures. The best combination of regression methods, types of descriptors, and preprocessing methods for constructing regression models were determined, and thus, DC and Tg prediction models with a high prediction accuracy could be constructed. Then, theoretical monomer structures, and theoretical copolymers with different combinations of monomer structures and composition ratios were generated, and the DC and Tg of the generated structures were predicted using the constructed models. Candidate structures met the desired DC and Tg values, and the proposed method could select promising monomer structures and composition ratios. Thus, monomer structures that would produce polymers with a high or low DC and high Tg were designed.
A theoretical comparison of the electrical and nonlinear optical properties ofGDY–π–TPA: The important role ofπ‐conjugated bridge
Authors: Hou Na , Feng Ran , Fang Xiao‐Hui
Published: June 2022

Based on the donor‐acceptor framework of graphdiyne–triphenylamine (GDY–TPA), eight GDY–π–TPA molecules were designed by introducing aπ‐conjugated bridge, including electron‐rich heterocycles, electron‐deficient heterocycles, and unsaturated hydrocarbons. The geometric structures, electronic characteristics, static nonlinear optical (NLO) properties, and frequency‐dependent HRS first hyperpolarizabilities were investigated employing the density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The charge population analysis reveals that electron‐rich heterocyclics and unsaturated hydrocarbons act as donors, whereas electron‐deficient heterocyclics can be regarded as acceptors, significantly increasing the first hyperpolarizabilities (β0) of GDY–π–TPA (except forB‐3). TheC‐1compound containing the vinyl unit is the best NLO model among all systems. The nature of the excellent NLO properties of the systems can be understood from the low excitation energy of the crucial excited state and the analysis of the first hyperpolarizability density. In addition, the varying order of static and dynamicβHRSvalues is consistent with those ofβ0values. Understanding the relationship between structure and nonlinear optical response can provide guidance for the theoretical design of NLO molecules.
Influence of the Salmo (trutta) trutta on the population structure, the growth, and the habitat preference of a Cottus gobio population
Authors: Bonacina Luca , Canobbio Sergio , Fornaroli Riccardo
Published: June 2022

The bullhead Cottus gobio is a small‐sized fish whose range extends over most of the European continent, and it is listed in Annex II of EU “Habitat” Directive for its great conservation interest. In the last decades, bullhead populations suffered local decline. Among the factors that negatively affect bullhead populations, major threats are pollution, habitat deterioration, and the massive introduction of salmonids. This study aims to better understand in which way the presence of the Salmo (trutta) trutta affects Cottus gobio populations. The investigation was carried out in two stretches of a stream located in the Orobic Alps (Italy). The downstream stretch hosts a fish assemblage constituted of both bullhead and brown trout, while in the upstream stretch only bullhead is present. An insurmountable barrier isolates the upstream population of C. gobio from trout, while the environmental conditions of the two stretches proved to be fully comparable. We evaluated population structure, habitat preference, and body shape of bullhead populations in both stretches: the results indicate that the presence of trout decreases the number of bullhead adults, reduces the average adult body size, and induces a bullhead suboptimal habitat occupation. However, both populations of C. gobio showed a well‐structured population and good performance indexes, so trout do not seem to be a threat to the population survival.
Chemo‐Phototherapy with Carfilzomib‐Encapsulated TiN Nanoshells Suppressing Tumor Growth and Lymphatic Metastasis
Authors: Wu Xuan , Wang Le , Xu Yan‐Neng , Chen Jian‐Li , Luo Kathy Qian , Yuan Ming‐Heng , Li Jie , Yuan Gang , Gu Ze‐Yun , Jia Xiao‐Hui , Chen Xiuping , Zhu Xiao‐Ming , Jiang Ruibin
Published: June 2022

The design of nanomedicine for cancer therapy, especially the treatment of tumor metastasis has received great attention. Proteasome inhibition is accepted as a new strategy for cancer therapy. Despite being a big breakthrough in multiple myeloma therapy, carfilzomib (CFZ), a second‐in‐class proteasome inhibitor is still unsatisfactory for solid tumor and metastasis therapy. In this study, hollow titanium nitride (TiN) nanoshells are synthesized as a drug carrier of CFZ. The TiN nanoshells have a high loading capacity of CFZ, and their intrinsic inhibitory effect on autophagy synergistically enhances the activity of CFZ. Due to an excellent photothermal conversion efficiency in the second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) region, TiN nanoshell‐based photothermal therapy further induces a synergistic anticancer effect. In vivo study demonstrates that TiN nanoshells readily drain into the lymph nodes, which are responsible for tumor lymphatic metastasis. The CFZ‐loaded TiN nanoshell‐based chemo‐photothermal therapy combined with surgery offers a remarkable therapeutic outcome in greatly inhibiting further metastatic spread of cancer cells. These findings suggest that TiN nanoshells act as an efficient carrier of CFZ for realizing enhanced outcomes for proteasome inhibitor‐based cancer therapy, and this work also presents a “combined chemo‐phototherapy assisted surgery” strategy, promising for future cancer treatment.
An All‐Solid‐State Battery Based on Sulfide and PEO Composite Electrolyte
Authors: Su Yong , Zhang Xuedong , Du Congcong , Luo Yang , Chen Jingzhao , Yan Jitong , Zhu Dingding , Geng Lin , Liu Shuangxu , Zhao Jun , Li Yanshuai , Rong Zhaoyu , Huang Qiao , Zhang Liqiang , Tang Yongfu , Huang Jianyu
Published: June 2022

Replacing liquid electrolytes with solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) is considered as a vital approach to developing sulfur (S)‐based cathodes. However, the polysulfides shuttle and the growth of lithium (Li) dendrites are still the major challenges in polyethylene oxide (PEO)‐based electrolyte. Here, an all‐solid‐state Li metal battery with flexible PEO‐Li10Si0.3PS6.7Cl1.8 (LSPSCl)‐C‐lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) composite cathode (FCC) and PEO‐LSPSCl‐LiTFSI composite electrolyte (S‐CPE) is designed. The initial capacity of the Li|S‐CPE|FCC battery is 414 mAh g−1 with 97.8% capacity retention after 100 cycles at 0.1 A g−1. Moreover, the battery displays remarkable capacity retention of 80% after 500 cycles at 0.4 A g−1. Cryo‐transmission electron microscopy (Cryo‐TEM) reveals rich large‐sized Li2CO3 particles at the Li/PEO interface blocking the Li+ transport, but the layer with rich Li2O nanocrystals, amorphous LiF and Li2S at the Li/S‐CPE interface suppresses the growth of lithium dendrite and stabilizes the interface. In situ optical microscopy demonstrates that the excellent cyclic stability of FCC is ascribed to the reversible shuttle of P–S–P species, resulting from the movement of ether backbone in PEO. This study provides strategies to mitigate the polysulfide shuttle effect and Li dendrite formation in designing high energy density solid‐state Li–S‐based batteries.
Severe smallness as predictor of adverse perinatal outcome in suspected late small‐for‐gestational‐age fetuses: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Meler E. , Martinez‐Portilla R. J. , Caradeux J. , Mazarico E. , Gil‐Armas C. , Boada D. , Martinez J. , Carrillo P. , Camacho M. , Figueras F.
Published: June 2022

Objective

To investigate the performance of severe smallness in the prediction of adverse perinatal outcome among fetuses with suspected late‐onset small‐for‐gestational age (SGA).

Methods

A systematic search was performed to identify relevant studies in PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus. Late‐onset SGA was defined as estimated fetal weight (EFW) or abdominal circumference (AC) < 10th percentile diagnosed at or after 32 weeks' gestation, while severe SGA was defined as EFW or AC < 3rd percentile or < 2 SD. Random‐effects modeling was used to generate hierarchical summary receiver‐operating‐characteristics (HSROC) curves. The performance of severe SGA (as a presumptive diagnosis) in predicting adverse perinatal outcome among singleton pregnancies with suspected late‐onset SGA was expressed as area under the HSROC curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity and positive/negative likelihood ratios. The association between suspected severe SGA and adverse perinatal outcome was also assessed by random‐effects modeling using the Mantel–Haenszel method and presented as odds ratio (OR). The non‐exposed group was defined as non‐severe SGA (EFW ≥ 3rd centile).

Results

Twelve cohort studies were included in this systematic review and meta‐analysis. The studies included a total of 3639 fetuses with suspected late‐onset SGA, of which 1246 had suspected severe SGA. Significant associations were found between suspected severe SGA and composite adverse perinatal outcome (OR, 1.97 (95% CI, 1.33–2.92)), neonatal intensive care unit admission (OR, 2.87 (95% CI, 1.84–4.47)) and perinatal death (OR, 4.26 (95% CI, 1.07–16.93)). However, summary ROC curves showed limited performance of suspected severe SGA in predicting perinatal outcomes, with AUCs of 60.9%, 66.9%, 53.6%, 57.2%, 54.6% and 64.9% for composite adverse perinatal outcome, neonatal intensive care unit admission, neonatal acidosis, Cesarean section for intrapartum fetal compromise, low Apgar score and perinatal death, respectively.

Conclusion

Although suspected severe SGA was associated with a higher risk of perinatal complications, it performed poorly as a standalone parameter in predicting adverse perinatal outcome. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Charting the landscape of (anti-) de Sitter and Minkowski solutions of 10d supergravities
Authors: Andriot David , Horer Ludwig , Marconnet Paul
Published: June 2022

Abstract

We classify solutions of 10d type IIA/B supergravities with orientifolds, on a 4d maximally symmetric spacetime times a 6d group manifold. We then look for new solutions in previously unexplored solution classes, and find some: (anti-) de Sitter solutions with intersecting O4, O6 and D6, or Minkowski solutions with 3 intersecting O5, among others. We provide the numerical code that we developed for this purpose. We also prove new no-go theorems against (anti-) de Sitter solutions. We finally conjecture the absence of de Sitter solution for 2 or less intersecting source sets, implying that a 4d effective theory with de Sitter is at most $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 supersymmetric.
Inpatient care utilisation and expenditure associated with objective physical activity: econometric analysis of the UK Biobank
Authors: Heron Leonie , Tully Mark A. , Kee Frank , O’Neill Ciaran
Published: June 2022

Background

Physical inactivity increases the risk of chronic disease and mortality. The high prevalence of physical inactivity in the UK is likely to increase financial pressure on the National Health Service. The UK Biobank Study offered an opportunity to assess the impact of physical inactivity on healthcare use and spending using individual-level data and objective measures of physical activity. The objective of this study was to assess the associations between objectively measured physical activity levels and future inpatient days and costs in adults in the UK Biobank study.

Methods

We conducted an econometric analysis of the UK Biobank study, a large prospective cohort study. The participants (n = 86,066) were UK adults aged 43–79 who had provided sufficient valid accelerometer data. Hospital inpatient days and costs were discounted and standardised to mean monthly values per person to adjust for the variation in follow-up times. Econometric models adjusted for BMI, long-standing illness, and other sociodemographic factors.

Results

Mean follow-up time for the sample was 28.11 (SD 7.65) months. Adults in the most active group experienced 0.037 fewer days per month (0.059–0.016) and 14.1% lower inpatient costs ( – £3.81 [ – £6.71 to  – £0.91] monthly inpatient costs) compared to adults in the least active group. The relationship between physical activity and inpatient costs was stronger in women compared to men and amongst those in the lowest income group compared to others. The findings remained significant across various sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

Increasing physical activity levels in the UK may reduce inpatient hospitalisations and costs, especially in women and lower-income groups.
More persistent bacterial than fungal associations in the microbiota of a pest insect
Authors: Gurung Kiran , Vink Stefanie Nicoline , Salles Joana Falcão , Wertheim Bregje
Published: June 2022

The invasive fly Drosophila suzukii is a pest that can infest a diverse range of intact, ripening fruits, using its serrated ovipositor. This constitutes a different niche compared to the rotting fruits its ancestors use, especially because these intact fruits have limited quantities of microbes and soluble nutrients for the developing larvae. To investigate the potential role of microbial associations in the niche expansion of this invasive fly, we characterized the bacterial and fungal communities of D. suzukii and various wild fruits from which they developed. To assess cross-generational microbial associations, we also lab-reared fly populations and characterized their microbial communities. Diversity metrics of microbial communities differed significantly between flies and fruits. Different fruit types varied substantially in microbial composition, while flies showed relatively uniform bacterial communities, irrespective of the fruit source they developed on. After approximately ten generations of lab-rearing, bacterial communities still showed considerable overlap with those of wild flies. Fungal communities of flies and fruits showed larger resemblance, with a substantial overlap between wild flies and the fruits on which they had developed. Our study thus reports that the fungal community structure in these pests largely reflects those on the breeding substrates, while these flies might have formed more persistent associations with some bacteria and transmit these across generations.
Identification of healthspan-promoting genes in Caenorhabditis elegans based on a human GWAS study
Authors: Saul Nadine , Dhondt Ineke , Kuokkanen Mikko , Perola Markus , Verschuuren Clara , Wouters Brecht , von Chrzanowski Henrik , De Vos Winnok H. , Temmerman Liesbet , Luyten Walter , Zečić Aleksandra , Loier Tim , Schmitz-Linneweber Christian , Braeckman Bart P.
Published: June 2022

To find drivers of healthy ageing, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) was performed in healthy and unhealthy older individuals. Healthy individuals were defined as free from cardiovascular disease, stroke, heart failure, major adverse cardiovascular event, diabetes, dementia, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, rheumatism, Crohn’s disease, malabsorption or kidney disease. Six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with unknown function associated with ten human genes were identified as candidate healthspan markers. Thirteen homologous or closely related genes were selected in the model organism C. elegans for evaluating healthspan after targeted RNAi-mediated knockdown using pathogen resistance, muscle integrity, chemotaxis index and the activity of known longevity and stress response pathways as healthspan reporters. In addition, lifespan was monitored in the RNAi-treated nematodes. RNAi knockdown of yap-1, wwp-1, paxt-1 and several acdh genes resulted in heterogeneous phenotypes regarding muscle integrity, pathogen resistance, chemotactic behaviour, and lifespan. Based on these observations, we hypothesize that their human homologues WWC2, CDKN2AIP and ACADS may play a role in health maintenance in the elderly.
Randomized trial of conventional versus radiofrequency needle transseptal puncture for cryoballoon ablation: the CRYO-LATS trial
Authors: Andrade Jason G. , Macle Laurent , Bennett Matthew T. , Hawkins Nathaniel M. , Essebag Vidal , Champagne Jean , Roux Jean-Francois , Makanjee Bhavanesh , Tang Anthony , Skanes Allan , Khaykin Yaariv , Morillo Carlos , Jolly Umjeet , Lockwood Evan , Amit Guy , Angaran Paul , Sapp John , Wardell Stephan , Wells George A. , Verma Atul , Deyell Marc W.
Published: June 2022

Background

Transseptal puncture to achieve left atrial access is necessary for many cardiac procedures, including atrial fibrillation ablation. More recently, there has been an increasing need for left atrial access using large caliber sheaths, which increases risk of perforation associated with the initial advancement into the left atrium. We compared the effectiveness of a radiofrequency needle-based transseptal system versus conventional needle for transseptal access.

Methods

This prospective controlled trial randomized 161 patients with symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation undergoing cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation to transseptal access with a commercially available transseptal system (radiofrequency needle plus stiff pigtail wire; RF + Pigtail group) versus conventional transseptal access (standard group). The primary outcome was time required for left atrial access. Secondary outcomes included failure of the assigned transseptal system, radiation exposure, and complications.

Results

The median transseptal puncture time was significantly shorter using the radiofrequency needle plus stiff pigtail wire transseptal system compared with conventional transseptal (840 ± 323 vs. 956 ± 407 s, P = 0.0489). Compared to conventional transseptal puncture, fewer transseptal attempts were required (1.0 ± 0.5 RF applications vs. 1.3 ± 0.8 mechanical punctures, P = 0.0123) and the fluoroscopy time was significantly shorter (72.0 [IQR 48.0, 129.0] vs. 93.0 [IQR 60.0, 171.0] s, P = 0.0490) with the radiofrequency needle plus stiff pigtail wire transseptal system. Failure to achieve transseptal LA access with the assigned system was rarely observed (1.3% vs. 5.7%, P = 0.2192). There were no procedural complications observed with either system.

Conclusions

The use of a radiofrequency needle plus stiff pigtail wire resulted in shorter time to left atrial access and reduced fluoroscopy time compared to left atrial access using conventional transseptal equipment.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT03199703.
Extension of Mathieu series and alternating Mathieu series involving the Neumann function $$Y_\nu $$
Authors: Parmar Rakesh K. , Milovanović Gradimir V. , Pogány Tibor K.
Published: June 2022

The main objective of this paper is to present a new extension of the familiar Mathieu series and the alternating Mathieu series S(r) and $${{\widetilde{S}}}(r)$$

S
~

(
r
)

which are denoted by $${\mathbb {S}}_{\mu ,\nu }(r)$$

S

μ
,
ν

(
r
)

and $$\widetilde{{\mathbb {S}}}_{\mu ,\nu }(r)$$

S
~

μ
,
ν

(
r
)

, respectively. The computable series expansions of their related integral representations are obtained in terms of the exponential integral $$E_1$$

E
1

, and convergence rate discussion is provided for the associated series expansions. Further, for the series $${\mathbb {S}}_{\mu ,\nu }(r)$$

S

μ
,
ν

(
r
)

and $$\widetilde{{\mathbb {S}}}_{\mu ,\nu }(r)$$

S
~

μ
,
ν

(
r
)

, related expansions are presented in terms of the Riemann Zeta function and the Dirichlet Eta function, also their series built in Gauss’ $${}_2F_1$$

2

F
1

functions and the associated Legendre function of the second kind $$Q_\mu ^\nu $$

Q
μ
ν

are given. Our discussion also includes the extended versions of the complete Butzer–Flocke–Hauss Omega functions. Finally, functional bounding inequalities are derived for the investigated extensions of Mathieu-type series.
Culturally Responsive Opioid and Other Drug Prevention for American Indian/Alaska Native People: a Comparison of Reservation- and Urban-Based Approaches
Authors: Komro Kelli A. , D‘Amico Elizabeth J. , Dickerson Daniel L. , Skinner Juli R. , Johnson Carrie L. , Kominsky Terrence K. , Etz Kathy
Published: June 2022

There are few substance use treatment and prevention programs for AI/AN people that integrate culturally based practices with evidence-based treatment and prevention. The National Institutes of Health’s (NIH’s) Helping to End Addiction Long-term (HEAL) Prevention Cooperative supports two projects focused on AI/AN populations. One focuses on youth ages 15 to 20 years living within the Cherokee Nation reservation, a multicultural rural area in northeastern Oklahoma, and the second focuses on emerging adults ages 18 to 25 years living in diverse urban areas. We provide a brief overview of the two prevention trials and a case comparison across approaches using the framework of promising practices for intervention science with Indigenous communities (Whitesell et al., 2020) related to (1) integration of Indigenous and academic perspectives to respond to community needs, (2) community partnership and engagement, (3) alignment with Indigenous cultural values and practices, (4) capacity building and empowerment, (5) implementation within complex cultural contexts, and (6) tribal oversight. Overall, these two projects highlight the importance of long-standing relationships with community partners, engaging the community at all levels to ensure that programming is culturally and developmentally appropriate, and having tribal and elder oversight. These practices are key to establishing trust and building confidence in research in these communities and ensuring that research can benefit AI/AN people. These studies showcase how strong partnerships can advance health and support the conduct of rigorous science to help pinpoint optimal health solutions by identifying efficacious, culturally grounded intervention strategies. Although the sovereign status of tribes demands this type of partnership, this research serves as a model for all community research that has a goal of improving health.
Facial Emotion Expressions in Human–Robot Interaction: A Survey
Authors: Rawal Niyati , Stock-Homburg Ruth Maria
Published: June 2022

Facial expressions are an ideal means of communicating one’s emotions or intentions to others. This overview will focus on human facial expression recognition as well as robotic facial expression generation. In the case of human facial expression recognition, both facial expression recognition on predefined datasets as well as in real-time will be covered. For robotic facial expression generation, hand-coded and automated methods i.e., facial expressions of a robot are generated by moving the features (eyes, mouth) of the robot by hand-coding or automatically using machine learning techniques, will also be covered. There are already plenty of studies that achieve high accuracy for emotion expression recognition on predefined datasets, but the accuracy for facial expression recognition in real-time is comparatively lower. In the case of expression generation in robots, while most of the robots are capable of making basic facial expressions, there are not many studies that enable robots to do so automatically. In this overview, state-of-the-art research in facial emotion expressions during human–robot interaction has been discussed leading to several possible directions for future research.
Effect of gut microbiota in the colorectal cancer and potential target therapy
Authors: Li Junchuan , Zhu Yuzhou , Yang Lie , Wang Ziqiang
Published: June 2022

The symbiotic interaction between gut microbiota and the digestive tract is an important factor in maintaining the intestinal environment balance. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a complex disease involving the interaction between tumour cells and a large number of microorganisms. The microbiota is involved in the occurrence, development and prognosis of colorectal cancer. Several microbiota species have been studied, such as Fusobacterium nucleatum (F.nucleatum), Enterotoxigenic Bacteroidesfragilis (ETBF), Streptococcus bovis (S. bovis), Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium. Studies about the interaction between microbiota and CRC were retrieved from Embase, PubMed, Ovid and Web of Science up to 21 Oct 2021. This review expounded on the effect of microbiota on CRC, especially the dysregulation of bacteria and carcinogenicity. The methods of gut microbiota modifications representing novel prognostic markers and innovative therapeutic strategies were also described.
Unmoved movers: a very simple and novel form of indeterminism
Authors: Laraudogoitia Jon Pérez
Published: June 2022

It is common knowledge that the Aristotelian idea of an unmoved mover (Primum Mobile) was abandoned definitively (from a mechanical standpoint, at least) with the advent of modern science and, in particular, Newton’s precise formulation of mechanics. Here I show that the essential attribute of an unmoved mover (in a non-trivial sense, and in the context of infinite systems theory) is not incompatible with such mechanics; quite the contrary, it makes this possible. The unmoved mover model proposed does not involve supertasks, and (perhaps precisely for this reason) leads both to an outrageous form of indeterminism and a new, accountable form of interaction. The process presents a more precise characterization of the crucial going-to-the-limit operation (which will admittedly require further development in future research). It has long been acknowledged in the existing literature that, theoretically, in infinite Newtonian systems, masses can move from rest to motion through supertasks. Numerous minor variations on the original schemes have already been published. Against this backdrop, this paper introduces three significant additions: 1) It formulates for the first time a limit postulate for systematically addressing infinite systems; 2) It shows that an Aristotelian unmoved mover (with no supertask) is possible in systems of infinitely many particles that interact with each other solely by contact collision; 3) It shows how interaction at a distance can emerge in systems of infinitely many particles (at relative rest) that interact with each other solely by contact.
Decoding of seismic data for complex stratigraphic traps revealing by seismic attributes analogy in Yidma/Alamein concession area Western Desert, Egypt
Authors: El-Nikhely A. , El-Gendy N. H. , Bakr A. M. , Zawra M. S. , Ondrak R. , Barakat M. Kh.
Published: June 2022

Sandstone channels are one of the best stratigraphic traps for hydrocarbon accumulation, and their depositional and composition make them difficult to detect on ordinary seismic data, especially in structurally affected onshore areas like the Western Desert of Egypt. The Western Desert of Egypt has many hydrocarbon-bearing reservoirs of various compositions like carbonates and sandstones with high production rates, and thus the Western Desert of Egypt is recognized as a hot spot for oil and gas exploration. One of the important reservoirs in the Lower Cretaceous “the Aptian sand” produced around 285 MBBLS cumulative oil of 22° API and still produces 102 BOPD. This reservoir has a channel-type depositional environment, and the dimensions of this channel could be resolved by good quality 3D seismic data in the moderately deep basins as the basins become deeper, the detection of the channel becomes increasingly challenging. This study aims to delineate the geometry of this reservoir and reveal the exposure from the Aptian sand channel in the Alamein area using the seismic attributes analogy on the re-processed 3D seismic data to determine the best drilling location for increasing the production from this reservoir. In this context, the relative acoustic impedance (RAI), iso-frequency components, and sweetness stratigraphic attribute analyses were conducted on the optimized seismic data and attested as important as they resolved the stratigraphic geological mystery in the structurally affected study area. These attribute analyses revealed the exposure from the distinctive meander channel of the Aptian sand for the first time in the study area nearby the producing Alamein field, where this channel was hard to be distinguished by the ordinary seismic interpretation methods and there is no drilled well penetrated the detected channel’s body. Upon the results, the conclusion and recommendation summaries to intensify the efforts to test the productivity of the detected channel to increase the production from this motivating reservoir by drilling a new well targeting the best structural locations of the channel body.
The Correspondence of Charles Darwin
Authors: Darwin Charles
Published: June 2022

This volume is part of the definitive edition of letters written by and to Charles Darwin, the most celebrated naturalist of the nineteenth century. Notes and appendixes put these fascinating and wide-ranging letters in context, making the letters accessible to both scholars and general readers. Darwin depended on correspondence to collect data from all over the world, and to discuss his emerging ideas with scientific colleagues, many of whom he never met in person. The letters are published chronologically. In 1881, Darwin published his final book, The Formation of Vegetable Mould through the Action of Worms. He reflected on reactions to his previous book, The Power of Movement in Plants, and worked on two papers for the Linnean Society on the action of carbonate of ammonia on plants. In this year, Darwin's elder brother, Erasmus, died, and a second grandchild, also named Erasmus, was born.
Taylor-ing Ethics: Implications of Charles Taylor’s Work of Retrieval on Moral Foundations Theory
Authors: Dang Carolyn T.
Published: June 2022

This article draws from Charles Taylor’s work of retrieval to advance moral foundations theory (MFT). Taylor’s contribution to MFT lies in his insistence that we retrieve the moral sources that have helped constitute, substantiate, and give meaning to individuals’ moral sensibilities. Applying Taylor’s insights to MFT, this article seeks to advance a view of moral foundations that connects them more explicitly to their underlying moral sources. Using this retrieved account of moral foundations, this article then addresses current issues within moral foundations research and theory. Finally, this article suggests ways in which Taylor’s philosophy can contribute to three areas within business ethics: ethical leadership, behavioral ethics, and ethics pedagogy.
Free Markets and Public Interests in the Pharmaceutical Industry: A Comparative Analysis of Catholic and Reformational Critiques of Neoliberal Thought
Authors: Oosterhuis-Blok Mathilde , Graafland Johan
Published: June 2022

The rise of liberal market economies, propagated by neoliberal free market thought, has created a vacant responsibility for public interests in the market order of society. This development has been critiqued by Catholic social teaching (CST), forcefully arguing that governments and businesses should be directed to the common good. In this debate, no attention has yet been given to the Reformational tradition and its principle of sphere sovereignty, which provides guidelines on the responsibilities of governments and companies for the public interest of society. This article analyzes the differences and similarities between CST and the Reformational philosophy in their critiques of the neoliberal free market perspective of Hayek. We apply the three perspectives to the case of orphan drugs in the pharmaceutical industry and show that CST and the Reformational philosophy offer valuable insights in correction to Hayek’s views on the responsibilities of governments and companies for public health interests.