bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combination of antidepressants and antipsychotics as a novel treatment option for psychosis in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Fan Peihao , Zeng Lang , Ding Ying , Kofler Julia , Silverstein Jonathan , Krivinko Joshua , Sweet Robert A. , Wang Lirong
Published: May 2023

Psychotic symptoms are reported as one of the most common complications of Alzheimer's disease (AD), in whom they are associated with more rapid deterioration and increased mortality. Empiric treatments, namely first and second‐generation antipsychotics, confer modest efficacy in patients with AD and with psychosis (AD+P) and themselves increase mortality. Recent studies suggested the use and beneficial effects of antidepressants among patients with AD+P. This motivates our rationale for exploring their potential as a novel combination therapy option among these patients. We included electronic medical records of 10,260 patients with AD in our study. Survival analysis was performed to assess the effects of the combination of antipsychotics and antidepressants on the mortality of these patients. A protein–protein interaction network representing AD+P was built, and network analysis methods were used to quantify the efficacy of these drugs on AD+P. A combined score was developed to measure the potential synergetic effect against AD+P. Our survival analyses showed that the co‐administration of antidepressants with antipsychotics have a significant beneficial effect in reducing mortality. Our network analysis showed that the targets of antipsychotics and antidepressants are well‐separated, and antipsychotics and antidepressants have similar Signed Jaccard Index (SJI) scores to AD+P. Eight drug pairs, including some popular recommendations like aripiprazole/sertraline, showed higher than average scores which suggest their potential in treating AD+P via strong synergetic effects. Our proposed combinations of antipsychotic and antidepressant therapy showed a strong superiority over current antipsychotics treatment for AD+P. The observed beneficial effects can be further strengthened by optimizing drug‐pair selection based on our systems pharmacology analysis.
Procyanidin B2 regulates the Sirt1/Nrf2 signaling pathway to improve random‐pattern skin flap survival
Authors: Li Yao , Zhu Yurun , Hu Fei , Liu Lue , Shen Guangjie , Tu Qiming
Published: May 2023

Random‐pattern skin flaps have been widely used in the reconstruction of damaged tissues. Ischemia–reperfusion injury occurring in the distal regions of the flap is a common issue, which often leads to flap necrosis and restricts its clinical applications. Procyanidin B2 (PB2), a naturally occurring flavonoid in large quantities in various fruits, has been demonstrated to exhibit several significant pharmacological properties. However, the effect of PB2 on flap viability is not clearly known. Here, using Western blot analysis, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence staining, we observed that PB2 significantly reduced oxidative stress and inflammation and enhanced angiogenesis. Mechanically, we provided evidence for the first time that the beneficial effects of PB2 occur through the activation of the Sirt1/Nrf2 signaling pathway. Moreover, co‐administration of PB2 and EX527, a selective inhibitor of Sirt1, resulted in down‐regulation of the expression of Sirt1, Nrf2, and downstream antioxidants. In summary, our study showed that PB2 might be a novel therapeutic strategy for improving the survival of random‐pattern skin flaps.
As simple as possible but not simpler: structural sensitivity testing of a dynamic model of adolescent overweight and obesity
Authors: Romanenko Eduard , Homer Jack , Lien Nanna
Published: May 2023

We recently published results from an SD model of adolescent overweight and obesity using data from 31 European countries that participate in the Health Behavior in School‐Aged Children (HBSC) study. During model development, we sought to identify a feedback structure with high explanatory power that avoided speculative relationships. Expert reviewers generally agreed with our modeling decisions, but two decisions did raise questions: (1) excluding the influences of food environment and built environment, for which HBSC provided no data; and (2) including five causal links that were supported statistically but might be considered disputable. To address the reviewers' questions, we created four possible model structures and performed automated calibration followed by intervention testing and ranking. We then compared the goodness‐of‐fit and intervention results. We discuss implications for how to move forward with the model, including through additional data gathering. © 2023 The Authors. System Dynamics Review published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of System Dynamics Society.
iAMY‐DC: Identifying Amyloid Proteins by Using Dynamic Correlation Features
Authors: Zou Hongliang
Published: May 2023

Recent studies reported that amyloid proteins keep a closely relationship with some common diseases, such as Alzhemier's disease, Parkinson's disease, and type 2 diabetes. In view of this, it is an urgent task to discriminate amyloid proteins from non‐amyloid proteins. In this work, we developed a new machine learning model to identify amyloid proteins based on the sequence information. Firstly, fifty different kinds of physicochemical (PC) properties were employed to denote sequences. Then, a sliding window approach was adopted to capture the local correlation information based on Pearson's correlation coefficient. And the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) algorithm was used to select these most distinguishing features. Given that the number of negative samples larger than the number of positive samples, the popular synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE) algorithm was utilized to solve the unbalanced dataset. Experiments were performed on support vector machine by using jackknife test. Compared with the existing predictors, experimental results showed that the proposed method has significantly improvement in distinguishing amyloid from non‐amyloid proteins. The dataset and codes used in this study were available at https://figshare.com/articles/online_resource/iAMY‐DC/20268093.
Green Synthesis of 2‐Thioxo‐4‐quinazolinone Derivatives in Water
Authors: Makiyama Kouhei , Mimura Yuusuke , Tomotani Yuuki , Tanimori Shinji
Published: May 2023

A series of biologically important 3‐substituted‐2‐thixo‐4‐quinazolinones have been synthesized starting from methyl 2‐isothicyanatobenzoate and amines without the use of additives under mild reaction conditions in water. This transformation tolerates a wide range of amines, which include anilines, alkyl amines, and hydrazines, to afford 60 diverse 3‐substituted‐2‐thixo‐4‐quinazolinones including 34 new compounds at 60 °C for 30 min in good yields. This method avoids the use of organic solvent and the generation of toxic waste to demonstrate a cost efficient, green and sustainable method for the synthesis of 2‐thixo‐4‐quinazolinone derivatives as valuable heterocycles for biological and materials studies.
Unlocking Deep and Fast Potassium‐Ion Storage through Phosphorus Heterostructure
Authors: Zhao Xiaoju , Geng Shitao , Zhou Tong , Wang Yan , Tang Shanshan , Qu Zongtao , Wang Shuo , Zhang Xiao , Xu Qiuchen , Yuan Bin , Ouyang Zhaofeng , Peng Huisheng , Tang Shaochun , Sun Hao
Published: May 2023

Potassium‐ion battery represents a promising alternative of conventional lithium‐ion batteries in sustainable and grid‐scale energy storage. Among various anode materials, elemental phosphorus (P) has been actively pursued owing to the ideal natural abundance, theoretical capacity, and electrode potential. However, the sluggish redox kinetics of elemental P has hindered fast and deep potassiation process toward the formation of final potassiation product (K3P), which leads to inferior reversible capacity and rate performance. Here, it is shown that rational design on black/red P heterostructure can significantly improve K‐ion adsorption, injection and immigration, thus for the first time unlocking K3P as the reversible potassiation product for elemental P anodes. Density functional theory calculations reveal the fast adsorption and diffusion kinetics of K‐ion at the heterostructure interface, which delivers a highly reversible specific capacity of 923 mAh g−1 at 0.05 A g−1, excellent rate capability (335 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1), and cycling performance (83.3% capacity retention at 0.8 A g−1 after 300 cycles). These results can unlock other sluggish and irreversible battery chemistries toward sustainable and high‐performing energy storage.
Computational Insights and Design of Promising Ultrathin PdM Bimetallenes for Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysis
Authors: Chen Yuping , Sun Fang , Tang Qing
Published: May 2023

Bimetallic Palladium‐based catalysts as an alternative of Pt‐free electrocatalysts play a vital role in electrocatalysis. The doping of transition metal (M) into the ultrathin Pd nanosheets is new promising strategy to regulate the reactivity and durability of surface Pd sites. In this work, an in‐depth investigation of the origin oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity and stability over 2D ultrathin PdM bimetallenes is presented. The M doping can greatly modify the reactivity of the Pd site by changing the local Fermi softness (SF(r)). All PdM bimetallenes follow the dissociative 4e− pathway, and a thorough screening identified several promising alternatives (PdTa, PdHf, PdZr, and PdNb) with much lower ORR overpotential than the pure Pd(111) metallene. The Pd–O bond length and the Fermi softness of surface Pd atoms are effective descriptors of the adsorption of O* key intermediates. The hetero‐metal induced ligand effect plays the key role for the activity improvement, which modifies the electronic properties and surface reactivity of Pd by the Pd−M orbital hybridization and result in the decline of bonding filling between Pd 3dz2 and O* 2p orbital. The computational insight provides useful guideline for future experimental realizations of bimetallic Pd‐based nanoalloys in ORR and other electrocatalytic reactions.
iCare4Me for FTD: A pilot randomized study to improve self‐care in caregivers of persons with frontotemporal degeneration
Authors: Massimo Lauren , Hirschman Karen B. , Aryal Subhash , Quinn Ryan , Fisher Lauren , Sharkey Michelle , Thomas Gladys , Bowles Kathryn H. , Riegel Barbara
Published: May 2023

Introduction

A tremendous burden is placed on frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) caregivers who sacrifice their own self‐care to manage the functional impairments of their loved one, contributing to high levels of stress and depression. Health coaching provides support for coping with stress while fostering self‐care behaviors. We report on preliminary evidence for efficacy of a virtual health coach intervention aimed at increasing self‐care.

Methods

Thirty‐one caregivers of persons with behavioral variant FTD (bvFTD) were assigned randomly to an intervention group, which included 10 coaching sessions over 6 months plus targeted health information or the control group receiving standard care augmented with the health information. Caregiver self‐care (primary outcome), stress, depression, coping, and patient behavioral symptoms were collected at enrollment and 3 and 6 months. Change over time was evaluated between the intervention and control groups using linear mixed‐effects models.

Results

There was a significant group‐by‐time interaction for self‐care monitoring (t58 = 2.37, p = 0.02 and self‐care confidence (t58 = 2.32, p = 0.02) on the Self‐Care Inventory, demonstrating that caregivers who received the intervention improved their self‐care over time. Behavioral symptoms were reduced in bvFTD patients whose caregivers received the intervention (t54 = –2.15, p = 0.03).

Discussion

This randomized controlled trial (RCT) shows promise for health coaching as a way to increase support that is urgently needed to reduce poor outcomes in FTD caregivers.
Biocellulose patch technique for fetoscopic repair of open spina bifida in twin pregnancy
Authors: Lapa D. A. , Acácio G. L. , Trigo L. , Goncalves R. T. , Catissi G. , Gato B. , Brandt R.
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Twin pregnancy is currently an exclusion criterion for prenatal repair of open spina bifida (OSB). The main objective of this study was to report on our experience of treating twin pregnancies with OSB using the skin‐over‐biocellulose for antenatal fetoscopic repair (SAFER) technique. We also discuss reconsideration of the current exclusion criteria for fetal OSB repair.

Methods

Eight fetuses with OSB from seven twin pregnancies underwent successful prenatal repair. Six pregnancies were dichorionic diamniotic with only one twin affected, and one was monochorionic diamniotic with both twins affected. Percutaneous fetoscopy was performed under CO2 insufflation of the sac of the affected twin. Neurosurgical repair was performed using a biocellulose patch to protect the placode, with the skin sutured to hold the patch in place, with or without a myofascial flap. Neurodevelopment was assessed using the pediatric evaluation of disability inventory scale in babies older than 6 months of adjusted age, whereas the Alberta scale was used for babies younger than 6 months of adjusted age.

Results

All 14 fetuses were liveborn and none required additional repair. Gestational age at surgery ranged from 27.3 to 31.1 weeks, and gestational age at birth ranged from 31.6 to 36.0 weeks. Four out of eight affected twins developed sepsis, but had a good recovery. No sequela of prematurity was found in any of the unaffected twins. Short‐term neurodevelopment was normal in all evaluated unaffected twins (5/5) and in all but one affected twins (7/8). In the affected group, only one baby required ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement.

Conclusions

Prematurity is frequent after fetal surgery, and the risk is increased in twin pregnancy. Nevertheless, prenatal surgery using the SAFER technique is feasible, with low risk to both twins and their mother when performed by a highly experienced team. Long‐term cognitive assessment of the unaffected twin is needed. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Forensic seized drug analysis: Current challenges and emerging analytical solutions
Authors: Joshi Monica , Sisco Edward
Published: May 2023

Over the past decade, new challenges in seized drug analysis have pushed the limits of existing instrumentation and workflows. These challenges include increasing caseloads, complex samples containing previously unidentified substances, and evolving legal requirements. Traditional approaches to seized drug analysis—such as gas chromatography mass spectrometry, color tests, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy—can be insufficient for current challenges, motivating the community to explore new instrumentation or data analysis solutions. However, the road to validation, implementation, and adoption of new technologies and solutions can be arduous. In this overview, we discuss the major challenges facing the seized drug community that can be addressed by advances in analytical approaches and highlight some emerging techniques that have been or could be adopted by laboratories in the near‐term. We also discuss specific hurdles limiting the implementation and adoption of new techniques, and approaches to lower these barriers.

This article is categorized under:

Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Controlled and Emerging Drug Compounds

Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Emerging Technologies and Methods

Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Presentation and Evaluation of Forensic Science Output
Hydro-Mechanical Effects and Cracking in Opalinus Clay
Authors: Cajuhi Tuanny , Haghighat Nima , Maßmann Jobst , Mollaali Mostafa , Sattari Amir S. , Ziaei-Rad Vahid , Ziefle Gesa , Nagel Thomas , Wuttke Frank , Yoshioka Keita
Published: May 2023

In this chapter, we investigate hydro-mechanical effects in the Opalinus Clay, especially those leading to cracking. We present a methodology comprising laboratory and field scale experiments, as well as the development and application of numerical approaches.
A threshold model of urban development
Authors: Vesperoni Alberto , Schweinzer Paul
Published: May 2023

We propose a simple model of distribution of economic activity across cities of endogenous size and number determined by individual incentives. The individuals populating our model are endowed with idiosyncratic entrepreneurial creativity, the realization of which requires urban agglomeration linked to a crowding cost. Focusing on the dynamics of urban development, our predictions include a U-shaped relation between well-known measures of urbanization and urban primacy, a hypothesis that we test empirically using World Bank data. Our findings complement a growing consensus on U-shaped relations between level and concentration of economic activity across a broad set of applications.
From thigh to pelvis: female genital prolapse repair with an autologous semitendinosus tendon transplant
Authors: Hornemann Amadeus , Weissenbacher Tobias , Hoch Benjamin , Franz Wolfgang , Lingwal Neelam , Suetterlin Marc , Holthaus Bernd
Published: May 2023

Introduction and hypothesis

The use of synthetic mesh for prolapse and incontinence surgery is discussed controversially and in several countries is either no longer used or permissible. Previous approaches with autologous tissue did not show from a patient´s perspective convincing long-term results. As there have been repeatedly significant complications with synthetic mesh, a new approach is urgently needed.

During orthopedics and trauma surgeries, tendons from the thigh have been used for decades to replace cruciate ligament. The procedure of tendon removal from the thigh is fast, easy to learn and morbidity is low. In addition, a long-term durability of the transplant ought to be expected. The objective of this investigation was to show our experience with a semitendinosus tendon instead of a mesh for genital prolapse repair.

Method

After the first successful attempts using such tendons in cervicosacropexy and pectopexy in patients with genital prolapse, we initiated a national multicenter study in 2020. Five German hospitals participated in order to determine the feasibility of cervicosacropexy with tendon tissue instead of mesh.

Result

Up until now, we have operated and observed 113 patients for at least 6 months and have seen stable results in terms of fixation of the apical compartment. The expected low morbidity at the donor site was also confirmed through subjective assessment of the patients (Knee and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score). Improvement of quality of life was confirmed after the procedure with the Short Form Health Survey 12, Version 2.0. The results of this multicenter study showed that the desired elevation of the apical compartment with tendon tissue can be achieved with low morbidity and without a synthetic mesh.

Conclusion

Women with uterine prolapse can be treated minimally invasively and with very low morbidity by using the semitendinosus tendon. The involvement of multiple (five) medical centers confirms that the technique is easy to learn and be transferred to other clinical centers.
Optimizing high-throughput viral vector characterization with density gradient equilibrium analytical ultracentrifugation
Authors: Sternisha Shawn M. , Wilson Abraham D. , Bouda Emilie , Bhattacharya Akash , VerHeul Ross
Published: May 2023

Viral vector-based gene therapies and vaccines require accurate characterization of capsid species. The current gold standard for assessing capsid loading of adeno-associated virus (AAV) is sedimentation velocity analytical ultracentrifugation (SV-AUC). However, routine SV-AUC analysis is often size-limited, especially without the use of advanced techniques (e.g., gravitational-sweep) or when acquiring the multiwavelength data needed for assessing the loading fraction of viral vectors, and requires analysis by specialized software packages. Density gradient equilibrium AUC (DGE-AUC) is a highly simplified analytical method that provides high-resolution separation of biologics of different densities (e.g., empty and full viral capsids). The analysis required is significantly simpler than SV-AUC, and larger viral particles such as adenovirus (AdV) are amenable to characterization by DGE-AUC using cesium chloride gradients. This method provides high-resolution data with significantly less sample (estimated 56-fold improvement in sensitivity compared to SV-AUC). Multiwavelength analysis can also be used without compromising data quality. Finally, DGE-AUC is serotype-agnostic and amenable to intuitive interpretation and analysis (not requiring specialized AUC software). Here, we present suggestions for optimizing DGE-AUC methods and demonstrate a high-throughput AdV packaging analysis with the AUC, running as many as 21 samples in 80 min.
Impact of postoperative baseline MRI on diagnostic confidence and performance in detecting local recurrence of soft-tissue sarcoma of the limb
Authors: Goller Sophia Samira , Reidler Paul , Rudolph Jan , Rückel Johannes , Hesse Nina , Schmidt Vanessa Franziska , Dürr Hans Roland , Klein Alexander , Lindner Lars Hartwin , Di Gioia Dorit , Kuhn Isabella , Ricke Jens , Erber Bernd
Published: May 2023

Objective

To evaluate the impact of a postoperative baseline (PB) MRI on diagnostic confidence and performance in detecting local recurrence (LR) of soft-tissue sarcoma (STS) of the limb.

Materials and methods

A total of 72 patients (8 with LR, 64 without LR) with primary STS of the limb were included. Routine follow-up MRI (1.5 T) at 6 and approximately 36 months (meanLR: 39.7 months; meanno LR: 34.9 months) after multimodal therapy or at time of LR were assessed by three independent readers using a 5-point Likert scale. Furthermore, the following imaging parameters were evaluated: presence of a mass, signal characteristics at T2- and T1-weighted imaging, contrast enhancement (CE), and in some of the cases signal intensity on the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC). U-test, McNemar test, and ROC-analysis were applied. Interobserver reliability was calculated using Fleiss kappa statistics. A p value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The presence of a PB MRI significantly improved diagnostic confidence in detecting LR of STS (p < 0.001) and slightly increased specificity (mean specificity without PE 74.1% and with presence of PB MRI 81.2%); however, not to a significant level. The presence of a mass showed highest diagnostic performance and highest interreader agreement (AUC [%]; κ: 73.1–83.6; 0.34) followed by T2-hyperintensity (50.8–66.7; 0.08), CE (52.4–62.5; 0.13), and T1-hypointensity (54.7–77.3; 0.23). ADC showed an AUC of 65.6–96.6% and a κ of 0.55.

Conclusion

The presence of a PB MRI increases diagnostic confidence in detecting LR of STS of the limb.
Veränderungserleben von Patienten in der Konzentrativen Bewegungstherapie
Authors: Seidler Klaus-Peter , Hamacher-Erbguth Anke , Epner Alexandra , Grützmacher Swantje , Schreiber-Willnow Karin
Published: May 2023

Hintergrund

In Anlehnung an den im deutschsprachigen Raum etablierten Veränderungsfragebogen des Erlebens und Verhaltens (VEV-R-2001), der für die direkte Veränderungsmessung eingesetzt wird, wurde ein neuer Fragebogen (VEV-KBT) entwickelt. Dieser ist auf die Zielbereiche der Konzentrativen Bewegungstherapie (KBT) ausgerichtet. Neben der Identifikation von änderungssensitiven Items wurden folgende Fragen untersucht: (a) Welche Dimensionen liegen den Items des VEV-KBT zugrunde? (b) In welchem Ausmaß erfahren ambulante Patienten nach 3 Monaten KBT Veränderungen der allgemeinen Stimmung und im Beschwerdeerleben im Vergleich zu Veränderungen in den KBT-bezogenen Zielbereichen? (c) Erleben Patienten nach 3‑monatiger ambulanter KBT ein anderes Ausmaß an Veränderungen als unbehandelte Personen innerhalb eines 3‑monatigen Zeitintervalls und als Patienten mit einer mindestens einjährigen KBT-Therapiedauer? (d) Geht eine Verbesserung in den KBT-bezogenen Zielbereichen mit einer Verbesserung der allgemeinen Stimmung und des Beschwerdeerlebens einher?

Material und Methoden

Es wurden 3 Teilstichproben erhoben: 34 ambulante Patienten mit 3‑monatiger KBT-Behandlung, 94 ambulante Patienten mit einer mindestens einjährigen KBT-Behandlung und 93 unbehandelte Personen. Zur Beurteilung der subjektiven Beschwerden wurde eine Kurzform der Symptom-Checklist-90‑R verwendet, die aus 9 Items besteht. Die allgemeine Stimmung wurde mithilfe des VEV-R-2001 erfasst. Der VEV-KBT besteht aus 28 Items, die sich hauptsächlich auf das Erleben des eigenen Körpers und den Umgang mit dem eigenen Körper (im Kontakt mit anderen Menschen) beziehen.

Ergebnisse

Als änderungssensitiv konnten 19 Items des VEV-KBT identifiziert werden. Diesen Items liegt ein dominanter Hauptfaktor zugrunde. Ambulante Patienten verzeichnen bereits nach 3 Monaten KBT eine signifikante Verbesserung hinsichtlich ihres Beschwerdeerlebens und ihrer allgemeinen Stimmung sowie in den KBT-bezogenen Zielbereichen. Es ist eine hohe Korrelation des VEV-R-2001 mit dem VEV-KBT zu verzeichnen. Beide Erhebungsinstrumente weisen vergleichbare Effektstärken auf.

Schlussfolgerungen

Es gibt keine eindeutigen Hinweise darauf, dass die Differenzierung von KBT-bezogenen Zielbereichen in der direkten Veränderungsmessung eine besondere Relevanz hat. Dennoch stellt der VEV-KBT eine ökonomische Alternative zum VEV-R-2001 für die direkte Veränderungsmessung bei KBT-Behandlungen dar.
Roles for cerebellum and subsumption architecture in central pattern generation
Authors: Montgomery John C.
Published: May 2023

Within vertebrates, central pattern generators drive rhythmical behaviours, such as locomotion and ventilation. Their pattern generation is also influenced by sensory input and various forms of neuromodulation. These capabilities arose early in vertebrate evolution, preceding the evolution of the cerebellum in jawed vertebrates. This later evolution of the cerebellum is suggestive of subsumption architecture that adds functionality to a pre-existing network. From a central-pattern-generator perspective, what additional functionality might the cerebellum provide? The suggestion is that the adaptive filter capabilities of the cerebellum may be able to use error learning to appropriately repurpose pattern output. Examples may include head and eye stabilization during locomotion, song learning, and context-dependent alternation between learnt motor-control sequences.
Complete blood count parameters as biomarkers of retinopathy of prematurity: a Portuguese multicenter study
Authors: Fevereiro-Martins Mariza , Santos Ana Carolina , Marques-Neves Carlos , Guimarães Hercília , Bicho Manuel ,   GenE-ROP Study Group, Afonso Conceição , Ferreira Joana , Santo Rita Espírito , Teixeira Filipa , Rosa Rita , Carneiro Cristina Vaz , Ferreira Marta , Matos Teresa , Neiva Luísa , Pereira Sandra , Aires Sofia , Parreira Ricardo , Melnik Zuzana , Faria João , Teixeira Joana , Barros Pedro , Almeida Juliana , Malheiro Bruna , Rodrigues Patrícia Cunha , Albuquerque Luís , Freitas Alice , Barros Pedro , Kotchekova Nadezda , Freitas Rui , Silveira Ana Cristina , Ferreira Ana , Morais Benvinda , Teixeira Susana , Mota Mafalda , Guerra Maria , Coimbra Lúcia , Gigante João , Ferreira Muriel , Lapa Patrícia , Monteiro Madalena , Alfaiate Mário , Rodrigues Teresa , Pina Teresa , Rosário Marta , Silva Renato , Breda Jorge , Bazenga Filipa , Pinto João António
Published: May 2023

Purpose

To evaluate complete blood count (CBC) parameters in the first week of life as predictive biomarkers for the development of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

Methods

Multicenter, prospective, observational study of a cohort of preterm infants born with gestational age (GA) < 32 weeks or birth weight < 1500 g in eight Portuguese neonatal intensive care units. All demographic, clinical, and laboratory data from the first week of life were collected. Univariate logistic regression was used to assess risk factors for ROP and then multivariate regression was performed.

Results

A total of 455 infants were included in the study. The median GA was 29.6 weeks, and the median birth weight was 1295 g. One hundred and seventy-two infants (37.8%) developed ROP. Median values of erythrocytes (p < 0.001), hemoglobin (p < 0.001), hematocrit (p < 0.001), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (p < 0.001), lymphocytes (p = 0.035), and platelets (p = 0.003) of the group of infants diagnosed with ROP any stage were lower than those without ROP. Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) (p = 0.044), red blood cell distribution width (RDW) (p < 0.001), erythroblasts (p < 0.001), neutrophils (p = 0.030), neutrophils-lymphocytes ratio (p = 0.028), and basophils (p = 0.003) were higher in the ROP group. Higher values of MCV, erythroblasts, and basophils remained significantly associated with ROP after multivariate regression.

Conclusion

In our cohort, the increase in erythroblasts, MCV, and basophils in the first week of life was significantly and independently associated with the development of ROP. These CBC parameters may be early predictive biomarkers for ROP.
De Garengeot’s hernia patients entirely treated laparoscopically: a safe and feasible alternative—a systematic review
Authors: Gómez-Portilla Alberto , Merino Elena , López de Heredia Eduardo , Gareta Alberto , Ojeda Montserrat
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Less than 450 cases of femoral hernias containing the vermiform appendix have been published since De Garengeot’s first description. A laparoscopic treatment option opened 15 years ago seems reliable and safe. A literature review of all the patients who have benefited from this new therapeutic alternative is presented.

Methods

A systematic review using the German Society of Surgery’s recommendations was performed for De Garengeot’s hernias totally treated laparoscopically. Keywords searched included “De Garengeot hernia” OR “femoral hernia appendix” OR “crural hernia appendix.”

Results

Only 29 out of 225 De Garengeot hernia’s manuscripts were identified describing patients entirely treated laparoscopically: 25 patients by a transabdominal preperitoneal hernia repair (TAPP) and 4 patients by a total extraperitoneal (TEP) procedure; 85.1% were females. The mean age was 71 years. Twenty-two patients had pre-operative imaging tests, sonography (2), computed tomography (14), or both (6). Nevertheless, only 56% had a preoperative diagnosis. Twenty-one cases required urgent treatment, while programmed surgery was possible in 7 instances. An appendix-sparing procedure could be done in 16% of the TAPPs. No postoperative complications occurred. The median hospital stay was 2.5 days.

Conclusions

The best surgical approach for a De Garengeot’s hernia is not defined, and many critical questions remain unanswered. A better understanding of the diagnosis and treatment of this peculiar hernia will supply guidelines for clinicians who may encounter it hereafter. A fully laparoscopic approach seems perfectly safe and feasible for this entity, and it could be considered the first-line alternative if enough expertise is available.
The Universality of the Resonance Arrangement and Its Betti Numbers
Authors: Kühne Lukas
Published: May 2023

The resonance arrangement $$\mathcal {A}_n$$

A
n

is the arrangement of hyperplanes which has all non-zero 0/1-vectors in $$\mathbb {R}^n$$

R

n

as normal vectors. It is the adjoint of the Braid arrangement and is also called the all-subsets arrangement. The first result of this article shows that any rational hyperplane arrangement is the minor of some large enough resonance arrangement. Its chambers appear as regions of polynomiality in algebraic geometry, as generalized retarded functions in mathematical physics and as maximal unbalanced families that have applications in economics. One way to compute the number of chambers of any real arrangement is through the coefficients of its characteristic polynomial which are called Betti numbers. We show that the Betti numbers of the resonance arrangement are determined by a fixed combination of Stirling numbers of the second kind. Lastly, we develop exact formulas for the first two non-trivial Betti numbers of the resonance arrangement.
Epidemiological study of unusual rotavirus strains and molecular characterization of emerging P[14] strains isolated from children with acute gastroenteritis during a 15-year period
Authors: Tatsi Elizabeth-Barbara , Koukou Dimitra-Maria , Dellis Charilaos , Dourdouna Maria-Myrto , Efthymiou Vasiliki , Michos Athanasios , Syriopoulou Vasiliki
Published: May 2023

Rotavirus group A (RVA) is characterized by molecular and epidemiological diversity. To date, 42 G and 58 P RVA genotypes have been identified, some of which, like P[14], have a zoonotic origin. In this study, we describe the epidemiology of unusual RVA genotypes and the molecular characteristics of P[14] strains. Fecal samples from children ≤ 16 years of age with acute gastroenteritis (AGE) who were hospitalized during 2007–2021 in Greece were tested for RVA by immunochromatography. Positive RVA samples were G and P genotyped, and part of the VP7 and VP4 genes were sequenced by the Sanger method. Epidemiological data were also recorded. Phylogenetic analysis of P[14] was performed using MEGA 11 software. Sixty-two (1.4%) out of 4427 children with RVA AGE were infected with an unusual G (G6/G8/G10) or P (P[6]/P[9]/P[10]/P[11]/P[14]) genotype. Their median (IQR) age was 18.7 (37.3) months, and 67.7% (42/62) were males. None of the children were vaccinated against RVA. P[9] (28/62; 45.2%) was the most common unusual genotype, followed by P[14] (12/62; 19.4%). In the last two years, during the period of the COVID-19 pandemic, an emergence of P[14] was observed (5/12, 41.6%) after an 8-year absence. The highest prevalence of P[14] infection was seen in the spring (91.7%). The combinations G8P[14] (41.7%), G6P[14] (41.7%), and G4P[14] (16.6%) were also detected. Phylogenetic analysis showed a potential evolutionary relationship of three human RVA P[14] strains to a fox strain from Croatia. These findings suggest a possible zoonotic origin of P[14] and interspecies transmission between nondomestic animals and humans, which may lead to new RVA genotypes with unknown severity.
The contribution of large-scale atmospheric circulation to variations of observed near-surface wind speed across Sweden since 1926
Authors: Minola Lorenzo , Lönn Jessika , Azorin-Molina Cesar , Zhou Chunlüe , Engström Erik , Wern Lennart , Hellström Sverker , Zhang Gangfeng , Shen Cheng , Pezzoli Alessandro , Chen Deliang
Published: May 2023

This study investigates the centennial-scale (i.e., since 1926) variability of observed near-surface wind speed across Sweden. Results show that wind speed underwent various phases of change during 1926–2019, i.e., (a) a clear slowdown during 1926–1960; (b) a stabilization from 1960 to 1990; (c) another clear slowdown during 1990–2003; (d) a slight recovery/stabilization period for 2003–2014, which may continue with a possible new slowdown. Furthermore, the performance of three reanalysis products in representing past wind variations is evaluated. The observed low-frequency variability is properly simulated by the selected reanalyses and is linked to the variations of different large-scale atmospheric circulation patterns (e.g., the North Atlantic Oscillation). However, the evident periods of decreasing trend during 1926–1960 and 1990–2003, which drive most of the stilling in the last century, are missing in the reanalyses and cannot be realistically modeled through multiple linear regression by only using indexes of atmospheric circulation. Therefore, this study reveals that changes in large-scale atmospheric circulation mainly drive the low-frequency variability of observed near-surface wind speed, while other factors (e.g., changes in surface roughness) are crucial for explaining the periods of strong terrestrial stilling across Sweden.
ON BOUNDEDNESS OF THE GENERALIZED RIESZ POTENTIAL IN LOCAL MORREY-TYPE SPACES
Authors: Burenkov V. I. , Senouci M. A.
Published: May 2023

For all admissible values of the numerical parameters sharp sufficient conditions on the functional parameters are obtained ensuring the boundedness of the generalized Riesz potential from one general local Morrey-type space to another one, which, for a certain range of the numerical parameters, coincide with the necessary ones.
Branes wrapped on orbifolds and their gravitational blocks
Authors: Faedo Federico , Fontanarossa Alessio , Martelli Dario
Published: May 2023

We construct new supersymmetric $$\textrm{AdS}_2\times \mathbb {M}_4$$

AdS
2

×

M
4

solutions of $$D=6$$

D
=
6

gauged supergravity, where $$\mathbb {M}_4$$

M
4

are certain four-dimensional orbifolds. After uplifting to massive type IIA supergravity these correspond to the near-horizon limit of a system of N D4-branes and $$N_f$$

N
f

D8-branes wrapped on $$\mathbb {M}_4$$

M
4

. In one class of solutions, "Equation missing" is a spindle fibered over a smooth Riemann surface of genus $$\textrm{g}>1$$

g
>
1

, while in another class "Equation missing" is a spindle fibered over another spindle. Both classes can be thought of as orbifold generalizations of Hirzebruch surfaces and, in the second case, we describe the solutions in terms of toric geometry. We show that the entropy associated with these solutions is reproduced by extremizing an entropy function obtained by gluing gravitational blocks, using a general recipe for orbifolds that we propose. We also discuss how our prescription can be used to define an off-shell central charge whose extremization reproduces the gravitational central charge of analogous $$\textrm{AdS}_3\times \mathbb {M}_4$$

AdS
3

×

M
4

solutions of $$D=7$$

D
=
7

gauged supergravity, arising from wrapping M5-branes on $$\mathbb {M}_4$$

M
4

.
Global Firms, (de)unionization and Wage Inequality
Authors: Afonso Óscar , Sequeira Tiago Neves , Santos Marcelo , Neves Pedro Cunha
Published: May 2023

This paper studies the simultaneous effects of relocation of production (as part of globalization) and institutions on intra- and inter-country wage inequality. Firstly, empirical evidence shows that labor unions act at decreasing inequality, but this shrinking effect tends to be mitigated by globalization. Theoretically, we study the conditions under which this empirical evidence is verified. Unskilled labor-intensive relocations together with (de)unionization processes of the labor force contributed to the increasing path of intra-country wage inequality observed in some of the leading countries. However, most recently, skilled relocations may help to decrease intra-country inequality in leading countries (e.g., the US), but to increase it in follower countries (e.g., China).
Does Public Value Commitment Leadership and Corporate Social Responsibility Fuel Accountant’s Productivity During Covid-19 Pandemic and New Normal: A Case Study on Public Sector in Vietnam
Authors: Pham Huy Quang , Vu Phuc Kien
Published: May 2023

This study aims to produce an in-depth examination of how public value commitment leadership increases accountant productivity. Additionally, it explores and sheds lights on the mediating function of corporate social responsibility. The sequential explanatory design was employed in this research where quantitative phase were proceeded at first followed by qualitative phase. The findings of the current research will help practitioners recognize and seize opportunities to improve accountant productivity. Besides, the benefits of a more in-depth comprehension in this research can help legislators enact legislation and regulations about corporate social responsibility to enhance the management of human resource in public sector.
Examining the Metropolitan and Non-metropolitan Educational Divide: Science Teaching Efficacy Beliefs and Teaching Practices of Australian Primary Science Educators
Authors: Deehan James , MacDonald Amy
Published: May 2023

The provision of quality science education is a global priority beset by longstanding challenges, which can be amplified in rural and regional contexts. This creates a dual problem where stakeholders must focus on the improvement of science education outcomes whilst being cognisant of the established divided between metropolitan and non-metropolitan learners. Considering the recent positive TIMSS results which showed equitable science results for regional, remote and metropolitan Australian year 4 students, this paper aims to examine the relationship between primary teachers’ school location and their science teaching efficacy beliefs and reported science teaching practices. A total of 206 Australian primary science educators responded to a cross sectional quantitative survey. Descriptive statistics, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and chi-square analyses found no statistically significant differences between metropolitan and non-metropolitan teachers on measures of science teaching efficacy beliefs and reported science teaching approaches. This apparent contradiction of established research themes merits deeper school and student-focused research to understand the practical implications that could arise from these findings.
Between the Placement Problem and the Reconciliation Problem. Philosophical Naturalism Today
Authors: De Caro Mario
Published: May 2023

Scientific naturalism—the conception according to which the natural sciences, and possibly physics alone, set the limits of ontology and epistemology—is characterized by a strong monistic tendency. For this reason, all versions of scientific naturalism face the so-called “placement problem”, which concerns the features of the ordinary view of the world that, at least prima facie, do not fit into the scientific view of the world (think of consciousness, moral properties, free will, and intentionality). To address this problem, scientific naturalists use three strategies: reductionism, eliminativism, and mysterianism—none of which, it is argued, produces satisfying results. Liberal naturalism opts instead for a pluralistic attitude in both ontology and epistemology but accepts a constraint according to which one should accept no entity or explanation that is incompatible with the scientific worldview. Liberal naturalism faces the “reconciliation problem”, which concerns the relationship between the scientific and the ordinary views of the world once one denies ontological and epistemological priority to either of them. Three strategies for addressing this problem are presented: according to the first, the ordinary worldview and the scientific world are categorically distinct; according to the second, the former emerges from the latter; according to the third, between them there is a relation of global supervenience. Other objections to liberal naturalism are finally presented and addressed.
The comparison of two different plumage-color lines of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) disclosed a significant effect in increasing abdominal fat contents with increasing age
Authors: Kirrella Abeer A. K. , El-Kassas Seham , Mostfa Saad Mohamed , Younes Hassan Hassan , Helal Mostafa , Ragab Mohamed
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to investigate the characteristic differences between the white and brown-feathered Japanese quails, by evaluating the carcass traits and egg fat content, blood parameters, and intestinal histopathological features. A total of 1200 1-day-old Japanese quail chicks of two varieties (brown and white-feathered) were used in this study. Live body weight and feed intake were reordered every week. At the 4th week of age, 80 birds from each variety were slaughtered and carcass quality measurements and histopathological changes were recorded. After 6 weeks of age, eggs were collected, and egg quality was assessed. The results revealed that white-feathered quails had significantly heavier body weights and higher growth rates. At 4 weeks of age, females of the white-feather quail had significantly heavier slaughter, after de-feathering, and carcass weights. Remarkable variations between the studied quail varieties, with significant dominance of females in both varieties, at the level of water holding capacity, pH, and meat tenderness ascertained an obvious superiority of white-feathered quails compared to brown ones and indicated the higher tendency of the white quails for meat production. These results were linked with significant changes in biochemical profiles including lipids biomarkers, total protein, and Ca and phosphorus levels along with variations in the intestinal morphometry. It can be concluded that white-feathered quails had, in general, higher values of productivity compared with the brown-feathered ones during growing and laying periods.
Modeling air-to-air communication networks in the North Atlantic region
Authors: Marks Tobias , Hillebrecht Alexander , Linke Florian
Published: May 2023

The North Atlantic is one of the world’s airspaces accommodating a very high aircraft density while at the same time no radio coverage or radar surveillance is available. Beside satellite communication, one approach to enable data communication between aircraft and ground in the North Atlantic region is to establish ad-hoc  networks build up by direct data links between the aircraft that are acting as communication nodes. In this paper we, therefore, present a modeling approach to model air traffic and ad-hoc networks in the North Atlantic region using up-to-date flight plans and trajectory modeling techniques and to assess the connectivity provided by such networks. Assuming an applicable set of ground stations that provide data transfer to and from this airborne network, we assess the connectivity by time-series analysis and in total for a set of different fractions of all aircraft assumed to be equipped with the necessary systems as well as for a variation of the air-to-air communication range. In addition, we present average link durations, average amounts of hops to reach ground and numbers of connected aircraft for the different scenarios and identify general relations between the different factors and metrics. We will show, that communication range and equipage fraction significantly influence the connectivity of such networks.
Race, Educational Attainment, and Sustained High Body Mass Index over 24 Years of Follow-up in Middle-Aged and Older Adults
Authors: Assari Shervin , Cobb Sharon , Najand Babak , Zare Hossein , Sonnega Amanda
Published: May 2023

Background

Educational attainment has been linked to reduced risk of health problems such as obesity, but research suggests that this effect may be weaker for non-Hispanic Black individuals compared to non-Hispanic White individuals, a pattern known as minorities’ diminished returns (MDRs).

Objectives

This study is aimed at examining the differential association between educational attainment and sustained high body mass index (BMI) among non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic White middle-aged and older adults in the USA.

Methods

Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) spanning 1992–2016, we analyzed a national sample of 35,110 individuals, including 7766 non-Hispanic Black and 27,344 non-Hispanic White individuals. We used logistic regression models to examine the relationship between educational attainment, race, and sustained high BMI, while controlling for age, sex, and marital status at baseline.

Results

Approximately 30.6% of the sample (n = 10,727) had sustained high BMI, while 69.4% (n = 24,383) had sustained low BMI over the period of follow-up. Higher levels of educational attainment were associated with a lower risk of sustained high BMI. We also found, however, that the protective effects of education against sustained high BMI were weaker for non-Hispanic Blacks compared to non-Hispanic Whites.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the protective effects of educational attainment against sustained high BMI may be more robust for non-Hispanic Whites than for non-Hispanic Blacks. Further research should explore whether these results are found in other racial and ethnic minorities and whether potential life history experiences may contribute to these disparities.