bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Winter moth populations are isolated on co‐occurring tree species with contrasting budburst‐phenology
Authors: Molleman Freerk , Walczak Urszula
Published: May 2024

Differences between neighbouring tree species in phenology could isolate populations of host plant generalists that depend on matching the phenology of their host.

We studied the relationship between the budburst phenology of two co‐occurring tree species with early (hornbeams) and late (oaks) budburst and the egg hatching date of associated winter moths (Operophtera brumata) during two seasons (autumns starting in 2020 and 2021).

A previous study in spring 2019 had found no winter moth larvae on the focal oaks, while we found them mainly on oaks with hornbeam neighbours in 2022. Congruently, adult winter moths were rarely encountered during the autumns of 2018 and 2019 and sparsely in 2020 and 2021, and then mainly near hornbeams.

The vast majority of winter moths had early hatching eggs when both hornbeams and oaks were present, matching the hornbeams rather than the oaks. Where hornbeam was absent in the neighbourhood, the few winter moths had late hatching eggs.

These results suggest that winter moth populations on hornbeam and oak are to some degree isolated from each other despite spatial proximity, so that recolonization of oaks by populations synchronized with budburst of hornbeam is slow. Therefore, trees would benefit from differing from their neighbours in budburst phenology with respect to herbivore damage.
A global latitudinal gradient in the proportion of terrestrial vertebrate forest species
Authors: Howes Benjamin , González‐Suárez Manuela , Banks‐Leite Cristina , Bellotto‐Trigo Flavia C. , Betts Matthew G.
Published: May 2024

Aim

Global patterns in species distributions such as the latitudinal biodiversity gradient are of great interest to ecologists and have been thoroughly studied. Whether such a gradient holds true for the proportion of species associated with key ecotypes such as forests is however unknown. Identifying a gradient and ascertaining the factors causing it could further our understanding of community sensitivity to deforestation and uncover drivers of habitat specialization. The null hypothesis is that proportions of forest species remain globally consistent, though we hypothesize that proportions will change with differences in ecotype amount, spatial structure, and environmental stability. Here we study whether the proportion of forest species follows a latitudinal gradient, and test hypotheses for why this may occur.

Location

Worldwide.

Time period

Present.

Major taxa studied

Terrestrial vertebrates.

Methods

We combined range maps and habitat use data for all terrestrial vertebrates to calculate the proportion of forest species in an area. We then used data on the global distribution of current, recent historical, and long‐term historical forest cover, as well as maps of global disturbances and plant diversity to test our hypotheses using generalized linear models.

Results

We identified a latitudinal gradient in the proportion of forest species whereby the highest proportions occurred at the equator and decreased polewards. We additionally found that the proportion of forest species increased with current forest cover, historical deforestation, plant structural complexity, and habitat stability. Despite the inclusion of these variables, the strong latitudinal gradient remained, suggesting additional causes of the gradient.

Main conclusions

Our findings suggest that the global distribution of the proportion of forest species is a result of recent ecological, as well as long‐term evolutionary factors. Interestingly, high proportions of forest species were found in areas that experienced historical deforestation, suggesting a lagged response to such perturbations and potential extinction debt.
Evaluating models for estimating introduction rates of alien species from discovery records
Authors: Buba Yehezkel , Kiflawi Moshe , McGeoch Melodie A. , Belmaker Jonathan
Published: May 2024

Aim

Reducing the rate of alien species introductions is a major conservation aim. However, accurately quantifying the rate at which species are introduced into new regions remains a challenge due to the confounding effect of observation efforts on discovery records. Despite the recognition of this issue, most analyses are still based on raw discovery records, leading to biased inferences. In this study, we evaluate different models for estimating introduction rates, including new models that use auxiliary data on observation effort, and identify their strengths and weaknesses.

Innovation

We compare four models: (1) a naïve model which assumes perfect detection; (2) a model proposed by Solow and Costello (the S&C model); (3) constant detection model: a modified version of the S&C model with constant detection probabilities and (4) a novel sampling proxy model: a model that uses external data on observation effort. We simulate discovery records of varying lengths, introduction rates and temporal patterns of detection probabilities to explore scenarios under which these models accurately estimate underlying introduction rates. (5) We also include code to perform a model based on Belmaker using independent data on the number of native species.

Main conclusion

We found that the length of the discovery records and the annual number of recorded species play a crucial role in the performance of all models. Under simulated scenarios of high detection, the naïve model is usually the best‐performing model, but it falls short when detection is low. Moreover, we find that in simulations which most likely mimic most real‐world cases (i.e. non‐monotonic probability of detection), incorporating external data on observation effort using the sampling proxy model, substantially improve estimates. This highlights the importance of considering observation effort when estimating introduction rates of alien species. To facilitate the use of these models, we provide a decision workflow and a dedicated R package (‘alien’).
Optimal emergency hospitals construction in an unexpected epidemic with considering the interactive effect
Authors: Liu Ming , Zhu Xiaoxiao
Published: May 2024

Constructing emergency hospitals is one of the most critical measures to defeat an unexpected epidemic. However, existing operations research (OR) studies rarely consider the interactive effect between the construction of emergency hospitals and the dynamics of epidemic transmission. Inspired by this gap, we propose a new modeling framework for decision‐making in emergency hospital construction. In our optimization model, we address the pandemic evolution functions as constraints. We also consider the heterogeneity among infected individuals, distinguishing between those with mild and severe symptoms, each requiring treatment in different types of emergency hospitals. We formulate the problem as a mixed integer nonlinear programming model. Our model can envision the current and future evolution of the epidemic and the impact of different decisions regarding emergency hospital construction on epidemic development. Simultaneously, it provides the optimal strategy to build hospitals and minimize the total number of untreated patients due to the disease. The proposed model is tested using the Covid‐19 outbreak case in Wuhan. The results can provide precise guidelines for emergency hospitals construction, including timing and capacity, and offer decision boundaries for policymakers considering the uncertainty of disease transmission. Furthermore, our decision‐making framework is general and can be adapted to study other epidemics.
Assessment of probiotic intervention for control of biofilm former Escherichia coli isolates of animal‐origin foods
Authors: Sharan Manjeet , Dhaka Pankaj , Bedi Jasbir Singh , Mehta Nitin , Singh Randhir
Published: May 2024

The study investigates the efficacy of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains (Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus casei) in combating Escherichia coli biofilms by determining antibacterial, anti‐biofilm activity, auto‐aggregation, and co‐aggregation assay. The study included 115 E. coli isolates from milk (n = 36), chicken meat (n = 33), and chicken eggs (n = 46). Among 115 E. coli isolates, 22.61% were strong biofilm formers. The LAB strain, L. rhamnosus exhibited a 28.47 mm mean antibacterial inhibition zone, an average reduction of 51.22% in biofilm growth, 55.46% auto‐aggregation, and 41.57% co‐aggregation with E. coli. Similarly, L. casei demonstrated a 21.55 mm mean antibacterial inhibition zone, an average reduction of 36.74% in biofilm growth, 45.23% auto‐aggregation, and 38.74% co‐aggregation with E. coli isolates. Both strains individually and in combination demonstrate substantial reductions in biofilm growth, with L. rhamnosus observed to be more effective than L. casei. Scanning electron microscopy provides valuable insights into the structural aspects of the probiotic impact on diminishing E. coli biofilm. Probiotics' ability to auto‐aggregate and co‐aggregate with pathogenic strains serves as an initial screening method for identifying suitable probiotic bacteria. In conclusion, the results underscore the efficacy of specific LAB strains in combating E. coli biofilm formation. This study provides a basis for future investigations into LAB's capacity to mitigate biofilm‐related hurdles and strengthen microbial management protocols within food processing settings or relevant food substrates.
Social Media and Nutritional Guidelines in Pregnancy
Authors: Drummond Nora , Miller Alexa , Kramer Melia , Zielinski Ruth
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Nutrition impacts health outcomes of pregnant people and their fetuses. Discussing nutrition with patients may be challenging for health care providers. In this vacuum, patients use social media for health information during pregnancy. Little is known about the type and quality of nutrition information that is available on social media. The aim of this study was to qualitatively explore the pregnancy nutrition messages contained in social media videos for content and evaluate the information's concordance with evidence‐based guidelines.

Methods

A review of current social media video content for nutrition in pregnancy was conducted across 4 platforms: YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Content analysis was used to descriptively and categorically analyze the social media video content.

Results

In the 62 social media videos reviewed, most were not consistent with established guidelines, were inaccurate, or presented a homogenous and unrealistic image of the pregnant person. Four categories of nutrition in pregnancy social media information emerged: what to eat, what not to eat, what I ate: aspirational, and what I ate: rebellion. Few videos were produced by health care organizations. Some were produced by anonymous organizations, with the majority made by pregnant or postpartum people. Many were testimonial or confessional in style. Despite regulations requiring identification of paid posts and advertisements, it was difficult to discern if videos were authentic sharing of patient experiences or advertisements.

Discussion

There is incorrect and incomplete information on social media surrounding nutrition in pregnancy. Professional guidelines for nutrition in pregnancy are available but are not as accessible to patients as social media videos. Social media use is associated with disordered eating and increased risk of anxiety and depression. However, targeted interventions by health care providers that use social media platforms have been successful in the distribution of credible health information. Midwives and other health care providers should share evidence‐based nutrition recommendation with patients to facilitate meaningful conversations around nutrition in pregnancy during in person and online interactions.
High‐dimensionality structure in English‐language personality type‐nouns
Authors: Vader Vinita , Saucier Gerard
Published: May 2024

Objective

Past applications of the lexical approach to type‐noun personality structures have yielded different results compared with those generated for adjectival personality structures, since then new methods have arisen for identifying robust higher‐dimensionality structure in data. This research aims to identify an optimal taxonomy of English language type‐nouns.

Method

Current study reanalyzed 372 type‐nouns from a previous study emphasizing robustness across methodological variations (original vs. ipsatized data, oblique vs. orthogonal rotations, convergence between male and female target ratings) to determine a replicable but more comprehensive model of personality type‐noun structure.

Results

A 13‐factor original‐data oblimin‐rotated solution was determined to be the most robust model, except for a one‐factor model that was far less comprehensive and informative; an original‐data 32‐factor oblimin‐rotated solution was also fairly robust. Although each of the Big Five adjectival markers indicated a large correlation with one or more type‐noun factors; nearly half of the 13 type‐noun factors lacked such large correlations with the Big Five.

Conclusions

A high‐dimensionality approach thus indicated that type‐nouns capture substantial content beyond the Big Five. A comparison with the character‐types described by an ancient philosopher (Theophrastus) signified that some granular type‐noun dimensions may have stability across multiple millennia.
Influence of mobility on the long‐term risk of tooth extraction/loss in periodontitis patients. A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Peditto Matteo , Rupe Cosimo , Gambino Giorgia , Di Martino Maria , Barbato Luigi , Cairo Francesco , Oteri Giacomo , Cavalcanti Raffaele
Published: May 2024

The aim of this systematic review (SR) was to assess whether tooth mobility (TM) increases the risk of tooth extraction/loss. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO database (CRD42023485425). The focused PECO questions were as follows: (1) “In patients with periodontitis, undergoing periodontal treatment, are teeth affected by mobility at higher risk of being extracted/lost compared to non‐mobile teeth, with a minimum follow‐up of 10 years?” and (2) “In these patients, does varying degrees of tooth mobility increase the risk of tooth extraction/loss, with a minimum follow‐up of 10 years?”. Results were reported according to PRISMA statement. Electronic and manual searches were conducted to identify longitudinal studies. The different assessments of tooth mobility were pooled into three groups: TM0: Undetectable tooth mobility, TM1: Horizontal/Mesio‐distal mobility ≤1 mm, TM2: Horizontal/Mesio‐distal mobility >1 mm or vertical tooth mobility. Tooth loss was the primary outcome. Various meta‐analyses were conducted, including subgroup analyses considering different follow‐up lengths and the timing of TM assessment, along with sensitivity analyses. A trial sequential analysis was also performed. Eleven studies were included (1883 patients). The mean follow‐up range was 10–25 years. The weighted total of included teeth, based on the sample size, was 18 918, with a total of 1604 (8.47%) extracted/lost teeth. The overall rate of tooth extraction/loss increased with increasing mobility: TM0 was associated with a 5.85% rate (866/14822), TM1 with the 11.8% (384/3255), TM2 with the 40.3% (339/841). Mobile teeth (TM1/TM2) were at an increased risk for tooth extraction/loss, compared to TM0 (HR: 2.85; [95% CI 1.88–4.32]; p < .00001). TM1 had a higher risk than TM0 (HR: 1.96; [95% CI 1.09–3.53]; p < .00001). TM2 had a higher risk than TM1 (HR: 2.85; [95% CI 2.19–3.70]; p < .00001) and TM0 (HR: 7.12; [95% CI 3.27–15.51]; p < .00001). The results of the tests for subgroup differences were not significant. Sensitivity meta‐analyses yielded consistent results with other meta‐analyses. Within the limits of the quality of the studies included in the meta‐analyses, mobile teeth were at higher risk of being extracted/lost in the long‐term and higher degrees of TM significantly influenced clinicians‘ decision to extract a tooth. However, most teeth can be retained in the long‐term and thus TM should not be considered a reason for extraction or a risk factor for tooth loss, regardless of the degree of TM.
Limosilactobacillus reuteri supernatant attenuates inflammatory responses of human gingival fibroblasts to LPS but not to elevated glucose levels
Authors: Janson T. M. , Ramenzoni L. L. , Hatz C. R. , Schlagenhauf U. , Attin T. , Schmidlin P. R.
Published: May 2024

Aim

We investigated the in vitro effect of Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 supernatant on the inflammatory response of human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) challenged by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or elevated glucose levels.

Methods

HGF were exposed to LPS (1 μg/mL), glucose (5, 12 mM or 25 mM), and dilutions of supernatant prepared from L. reuteri DSM 17938 (0.5 × 107, 1.0 × 107, 2.5 × 107, and 5.0 × 107 CFU/mL). After 24 h cell viability and levels of cytokines (IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐8) and TLR‐2 were determined.

Results

None of the tested L. reuteri (DSM 17938) supernatant concentrations reduced the viability of HGF. Supernatant concentrations (2.5 × 107 and 5 × 107 CFU/mL) significantly (p < .05) decreased the production of IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, and TLR‐2 in the presence of LPS. In contrast, inflammatory markers were not reduced by L. reuteri supernatant in the presence of glucose. Glucose concentrations of 12 mM and 24 mM still lead to an elevated production of the investigated biochemical mediators.

Conclusion

While L. reuteri (DSM 17938) supernatant attenuates the inflammatory response of HGF to LPS in a dose‐dependent manner, elevated glucose levels suppress this action. These in vitro results support the overall anti‐inflammatory efficacy of L. reuteri supplementation in plaque‐associated periodontal inflammations.
Contributors to fatigue among nurses working in critical care units: A qualitative study
Authors: Abbaszadeh Reyhaneh , Ahmadi Fazlollah , Khoobi Mitra , Kazemnejad Anoshirvan , Vaismoradi Mojtaba
Published: May 2024

Background

Fatigue is a growing concern among nurses who provide care to unstable and critically ill patients in critical care wards. It has various negative consequences for both nurses and patients.

Aim

To explore and describe contributors to fatigue among nurses working in critical care units.

Study Design

A qualitative content analysis.

Results

Participants were 21 nurses chosen using purposeful sampling. They were working in different critical care units at different hospitals in nine urban areas of Iran. Semi‐structured interviews were used to collect data, and conventional content analysis was used to develop categories and subcategories. The analysis of data on the nurses' perspectives and experiences led to developing nine categories as contributors to fatigue: ‘compassion fatigue’, ‘extensive network of interactions’, ‘sound and alarm fatigue’, ‘psychological tensions’, ‘managerial and organizational tensions’, ‘lack of motivation and incentives’, ‘individual characteristics of nurses’, ‘physical and mental pressure’, and requirements of special care and situational complexity’.

Conclusions

Understanding the factors that influence the experience of fatigue among nurses working in critical care units is essential for maintaining a reliable and high‐quality health care environment within health care facilities.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The experience of fatigue by critical care nurses can increase the possibility of practice errors, reduce patient safety and quality of care, and enhance staff burnout and turnover. Proactive policies should be formulated to assess nurses' fatigue levels and implement strategies for effective fatigue management. This approach aims to enhance both patient safety and job satisfaction in the workplace.
A head movement analysis of second position clitics: The case of Russian polar particle li
Authors: Shushurin Philip
Published: May 2024

Russian polar particle li is usually analyzed as a second position clitic, constrained to appear at the linearly second position in the clause. I suggest that this requirement is a consequence of head movement: li is generated in —a polarity projection—merged directly above the associated polar constituent (X). This constituent must head‐move and left‐adjoin to li. The complex head (X+li) is largely equivalent to a wh‐word: at later stages of the derivation, it is attracted to the left periphery of the clause. li can be seen as an analog of a wh‐morpheme, which merges with different morphemes to form a wh‐word. Treating X+li as a complex head allows us to reduce the second position requirement of li to the left edge requirement on the X+li, a requirement often postulated for wh‐words. I provide further evidence for the hypothesis by showing the complementarity of li and negation.
miR394 modulates brassinosteroid signaling to regulate hypocotyl elongation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Shuo , Zhao Zhongjuan , Lu Qing , Li Mingru , Dai Xuehuan , Shan Mengqi , Liu Zhenhua , Bai Ming‐Yi , Xiang Fengning
Published: May 2024

The interplay between microRNAs (miRNAs) and phytohormones allows plants to integrate multiple internal and external signals to optimize their survival of different environmental conditions. Here, we report that miR394 and its target gene LEAF CURLING RESPONSIVENESS (LCR), which are transcriptionally responsive to BR, participate in BR signaling to regulate hypocotyl elongation in Arabidopsis thaliana. Phenotypic analysis of various transgenic and mutant lines revealed that miR394 negatively regulates BR signaling during hypocotyl elongation, whereas LCR positively regulates this process. Genetically, miR394 functions upstream of BRASSINOSTEROID INSENSITIVE2 (BIN2), BRASSINAZOLEs RESISTANT1 (BZR1), and BRI1‐EMS‐SUPPRESSOR1 (BES1), but interacts with BRASSINOSTEROID INSENSITIVE1 (BRI1) and BRI1 SUPRESSOR PROTEIN (BSU1). RNA‐sequencing analysis suggested that miR394 inhibits BR signaling through BIN2, as miR394 regulates a significant number of genes in common with BIN2. Additionally, miR394 increases the accumulation of BIN2 but decreases the accumulation of BZR1 and BES1, which are phosphorylated by BIN2. MiR394 also represses the transcription of PACLOBUTRAZOL RESISTANCE1/5/6 and EXPANSIN8, key genes that regulate hypocotyl elongation and are targets of BZR1/BES1. These findings reveal a new role for a miRNA in BR signaling in Arabidopsis.
Prevalence and antibiotic resistance in bacterial isolates of dogs with ulcerative keratitis in São Paulo State, Brazil
Authors: Casemiro Pamella A. F. , Andrade Alexandre L. , Cardozo Marita V. , Rodrigues Romário A. , Silva Jaqueline A. , Marinho Márcia , Nassar Alessandra F. C. , Castro Vanessa , Braz Guilherme H. R. , Gujanwski Cinthya A. , Padua Ivan R. M. , Moraes Paola C.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Identify microorganisms present in canine eyes affected by ulcerative keratitis and assess its resistance profile to available antimicrobial drugs.

Methods

Samples were collected from 88 canine eyes that exhibited ulcerative keratitis. They were identified using MALDI‐TOF and subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing by disk diffusion.

Results

Among the assessed subjects, brachycephalic dogs accounted for 74.48% (50/83) of the evaluated canines. Among the 88 evaluated eyes, 90.9% (80/88) showed positive cultures, with 11.33% (10/88) of the samples isolating more than one species of bacteria. Of all bacterial isolates identified (90), Gram‐positive bacteria accounted for 63.33% (57/90), while Gram‐negative bacteria constituted 36.66% (33/90), with predominance of Staphylococcus spp. at 35.55% (32/90) being, Staphylococcus pseudintermedius at 68.75% (22/32), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at 15.55% (14/90), respectively. Staphylococcus spp. exhibited resistance to penicillin (89.29%), sulfadiazine and trimethoprim (60.71%), and tetracycline (67.86%), while doxycycline (88.89%), cefotaxime (85.71%), chloramphenicol (82.14%), gentamicin, and moxifloxacin (78.57%) showed the highest sensitivity rates. Pseudomonas aeruginosa displayed sensitivity (100%) to gentamicin and imipenem, and resistance (8.33%) to norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin, and cefepime. Similarly, the Enterobacteriaceae family showed higher sensitivity to amikacin and gentamicin (88.89%), imipenem (88.24%), and levofloxacin (87.5%), with pronounced resistance to amoxicillin‐clavulanate (50%) and cefazolin (47.06%). This highlights multiresistance in 23.33% (21/90) of the isolates.

Conclusions

The most isolated species in canine ulcerative keratitis are S. pseudintermedius and P. aeruginosa. However, other species were also isolated, demonstrating diversity in ocular microbiota infection. There is a high‐rate multidrug resistance associated with canine ulcerative keratitis. Nevertheless, these strains exhibited sensitivity to antimicrobials commonly used in veterinary ophthalmology.
Elasto-Plastic Constitutive Behavior Prediction and Uncertainty Quantification of Damaged Composite Structure Under High-Strain Rate Loading
Authors: Kumar Vikash , Panda Subrata Kumar
Published: May 2024

The current research assesses the consequences of various damages (crack and delamination) and high strain loading conditions on the fiber-reinforced composite structure's elasto-plastic stress–strain (EPSS) characteristics. The constitutive responses are obtained numerically (finite element discretization) using higher-order polynomials with the help of the matlab platform. The EPSS responses are evaluated via the modified Ludwik equation and Cowper Symonds model under high strain rate loadings. The model accuracy has been tested by comparing the present numerical and the published experimental data available in the open domain. Furthermore, various numerical examples present the effect of damages (debond and/or crack), forces, and stress–strain characteristics for a wide range of strain rates (ranging from 0.001 s−1 to 50 s−1). The stochastic constitutive model is obtained to show the importance of modeling and the corresponding analysis parameters, including uncertainty quantification. Finally, a detailed understanding of the damages and geometries on the polymeric composite structure are enumerated via the delve model for the futuristic design.
Subaortic membrane mimicking hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Anderson Mark Joseph , Arruda-Olson Adelaide , Gersh Bernard , Geske Jeffrey
Published: May 2024

A 34-year-old man was referred for progressive angina and exertional dyspnoea refractory to medical therapy, with a presumptive diagnosis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) revealed asymmetric septal hypertrophy without systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve leaflet and with no dynamic left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction. However, the LVOT velocity was elevated at rest as well as with provocation, without the characteristic late peaking obstruction seen in HCM. Focused TTE to evaluate for suspected fixed obstruction demonstrated a subaortic membrane 2.2 cm below the aortic valve. Coronary CT angiography confirmed the presence of the subaortic membrane and was negative for concomitant coronary artery disease. Surgical resection of the subaortic membrane and septal myectomy resulted in significant symptomatic relief and lower LVOT velocities on postoperative TTE. This case reminds the clinician to carefully evaluate for alternative causes of LVOT obstruction, especially subaortic membrane, as a cause of symptoms mimicking HCM.
Palliative care inpatients in Switzerland (2012–2021): characteristics, in-hospital mortality and avoidable admissions
Authors: Hurni Benjamin , Müller Beat , Hug Balthasar L , Beeler Patrick E
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Palliative patients generally prefer to be cared for and die at home. Overly aggressive treatments place additional strain on already burdened patients and healthcare services, contributing to decreased quality of life and increased healthcare costs. This study characterises palliative inpatients, quantifies in-hospital mortality and potentially avoidable hospitalisations.

Methods

We conducted a multicentre retrospective analysis using the national inpatient cohort. The extracted data encompassed all inpatients for palliative care spanning the years 2012–2021. The dataset comprised information on demographics, diagnoses, comorbidities, treatments and clinical outcomes. Content experts reviewed a list of treatments for which no hospitalisation was required.

Results

120 396 hospitalisation records indicated palliative patients. Almost half were women (n=59 297, 49%). Most patients were ≥65 years old. 66% had an oncologic primary diagnosis. The majority were admitted from home (82 443; 69%). The patients stayed a median of 12 days (6–20). All treatments for 25 188 patients (21%) could have been performed at home. In-hospital deaths ended 64 739 stays (54%); of note, 10% (n=6357/64 739) of in-hospital deaths occurred within 24 hours.

Conclusions

In this nationwide study of palliative inpatients, two-thirds were 65 years old and older. Regarding the performed treatments alone, a fifth of these hospitalisations can be considered as avoidable. More than half of the patients died during their hospital stay, and 1 in 10 of those within 24 hours.
Multiple Sound Scattering by Combinations of Cylindrically Symmetric and Linearly Invariant Anomalies
Authors: Ivansson Sven M.
Published: May 2024

A number of previous papers have used the coupled-mode method to assess three-dimensional scattering by cylindrically symmetric anomalies (seamounts, hills) or anomalies which are invariant in a horizontal direction (wedges, ridges). This paper makes an extension to combinations of these two anomaly types. The upper and lower depth boundaries of the anomalies may be flat or irregular, and the sound source may be anywhere in the medium. After a discretization of the anomalies of the two types with laterally homogeneous rings and strips, respectively, an adaptation of the coupled-mode method yields the solution of the pertinent Helmholtz equation. The adaptation involves a combination of Fourier-series summations to handle the ring anomalies and adaptive wavenumber integrations to handle the strip structure. For each anomaly, recursively computed reflection matrices relate the expansion coefficients for incoming and outgoing normal modes. Iterative solution of a linear equation system for the amplitudes of the scattered cylindrical waves from the ring anomalies, involving formulas for transformation between plane and cylindrical waves, yields an expansion of the field. Related expansions allow isolation of partial waves, multiply scattered among the anomalies. The paper includes examples from underwater acoustics and atmospheric acoustics.
FKeras: A Sensitivity Analysis Tool for Edge Neural Networks
Authors: Weng Olivia , Meza Andres , Bock Quinlan , Hawks Benjamin , Campos Javier , Tran Nhan , Duarte Javier Mauricio , Kastner Ryan
Published: May 2024

Edge computation often requires robustness to faults, e.g., to reduce the effects of transient errors and to function correctly in high radiation environments. In these cases, the edge device must be designed with fault tolerance as a primary objective.
FKeras
is a tool that helps design fault-tolerant edge neural networks (NNs) that run entirely on chip to meet strict latency and resource requirements.
FKeras
provides metrics that give a bit-level ranking of NN weights with respect to their sensitivity to faults.
FKeras
includes these sensitivity metrics to guide efficient fault injection campaigns to help evaluate the robustness of an NN architecture. We show how to use
FKeras
in the codesign of edge NNs trained on the high-granularity endcap calorimeter dataset, which represents high energy physics data, as well as the CIFAR-10 dataset. We use
FKeras
to analyze an NN’s fault tolerance to consider alongside its accuracy, performance, and resource consumption. The results show that the different NN architectures have vastly differing resilience to faults.
FKeras
can also determine how to protect NN weights best, e.g., by selectively using triple modular redundancy on only the most sensitive weights, which reduces area without affecting accuracy.
Environmental Influence of Gas Flaring: Perspective from the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria
Authors: Ukhurebor Kingsley Eghonghon , Aigbe Uyiosa Osagie , Onyancha Robert Birundu , Athar Hussain , Okundaye Benedict , Aidonojie Paul Atagamen , Siloko Benita Ebindu , Hossain Ismail , Kusuma Heri Septya , Darmokoesoemo Handoko
Published: May 2024

Gas flaring (GasF) is an important aspect of the combustion mechanisms in the burning of related, undesirable, or surplus fluids (gases in particular) that are released during the ordinary or unexpected overpressuring process in several industrial activities, specifically in the petroleum resource (PTR) industries. It is also one of the major sources of greenhouse gas emissions which cause climate change (CMC). In addition to the generation of noise and heat, it makes substantial adjacent areas uninhabitable and, hence, causes detrimental consequences to the entire ecosystem as well as waste energy and results in economic losses. Reducing GasF is a critical issue due to its ensuing complications; consequently, there is a tenacious need to measure GasF via the study of its composition, distribution, and capacity, as well as the utilization of appropriate GasF recovery/removal procedures. The present review study will, thus, attempt to assess the impacts of GasF on the environment vis-à-vis the possible nexus between GasF/CMC using the perspective of the Niger Delta region of Nigeria which is rich in PTR, with relevant information drawn from existing publications. The roles of government, policymakers, and relevant stakeholders as well as suggestions and recommendations that will assist in the extenuation approaches and technologies of the influence of GasF on the environment are also discussed.
Complete Genome Sequence and Construction of an Infectious Bacterial Artificial Chromosome Clone of a Virulent Duck Enteritis Virus Strain XJ
Authors: Huo Su-xin , Zhu Yin-chu , Chen Liu , Yun Tao , Ye Wei-cheng , Hua Jiong-gang , Ni Zheng , Xiang Sheng-rui , Ding Fang-zhou , Gao Xu , Liu Han-bin , Bao En-dong , Zhang Cun
Published: May 2024

In 2021, a highly virulent strain of duck enteritis virus (DEV), designated as DEV XJ, was isolated from Zhejiang, China, and its complete genome, spanning 162,234 bp with 78 predicted open reading frames (ORFs), was sequenced. While showing relative homology to the DEV CV strain, DEV XJ exhibited distinctions in 38 ORFs, including various immunogenic and virulence‐related genes. Amino acid variation analysis, focusing on UL6 and LORF3, indicated a high degree of homology between DEV XJ and the 2085 strain from Europe, as well as the DEV DP‐AS‐Km‐19 strain from India. Subsequently, a full‐length infectious bacterial artificial chromosome clone (BAC) of DEV XJ was successfully constructed to delve into the pathogenic mechanisms of this virulent strain. XJ BAC demonstrated substantial similarity to the parental DEV XJ in both in vitro growth properties and the induction of typical pathogenic symptoms in sheldrakes. Furthermore, the US3, LORF3, UL21, and UL36 genes were individually deleted using a two‐step RED recombination approach based on the infectious BAC clone. Our findings revealed that the UL21 and UL36 genes play crucial roles in viral proliferation. Although the US3 and LORF3 genes were dispensable for viral replication and cell‐to‐cell transmission in vitro, they attenuated the replication and transmission efficiency of DEV compared to the WT. In summary, this study accomplished the whole‐genome sequencing of a clinically virulent DEV strain and the successful construction of an infectious DEV XJ clone. Moreover, the functional roles of the above‐mentioned mutant genes were preliminarily explored through the analysis of their in vitro biological characteristics.
Analysis Study of Available Alternatives for Mitigation of Aromatic Hydrocarbon Emissions from a Glycol Dehydration Unit
Authors: Shoaib Abeer M. , Ahmed Tamer F. , Gadallah Abdelrahman G. , Bhran Ahmed A.
Published: May 2024

A natural gas (NG) dehydration unit based on glycol absorption is considered one of the most important gas processing units, aiming to decrease water content and consequently adjust its dew point. However, during this process, not only water is absorbed by the glycol solvent, but also some aromatic compounds, including benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX), in addition to volatile organic compounds (VOC), are absorbed. These compounds are released during glycol regeneration into the atmosphere, resulting in environmental pollution and consequent catastrophic mental and physical health problems. This study aims to minimize BTEX emissions while ensuring efficient dew point control. Various strategies have been adopted to control BTEX emissions, but the present work focuses on optimizing operating conditions and investigating the influence of operational variables on BTEX emissions, as well as NG water content. LINGO optimization software and HYSYS (version 11) are used to find the plant’s optimum conditions for minimizing BTEX emissions and satisfying efficient dew point control. Simulation results show that stripping gas, triethylene glycol (TEG) circulation rate, and inlet feed gas temperature significantly affect BTEX emissions. The proposed optimum operating conditions in this work resulted in a reduction in BTEX emissions by about 81% while satisfying the required NG dew point. Furthermore, two quadratic equations are developed based on regression analysis for efficient calculation of the BTEX emissions and water dew point at any operational variables.
Comparing Intradermal (ID) Rabies Vaccination with Conventional IM Regimen on Humoral Response of New Zealand White Rabbits for the Production of Animal‐Derived Polyclonal Antibodies
Authors: Najam Amina , Abid Rameesha , Ali Hussain , Hafeez Hamza , Arif Amna , Ahmed Safia , Di Cerbo Alessandro , Ghazanfar Shakira
Published: May 2024

In developing countries, it is imperative to implement cost‐effective strategies for animal humoral response development in the production of antiserum. This study compared the effect of immunization regimens on the humoral immune response of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits (N = 24) using cell culture rabies vaccine (CCRV) through intradermal (ID) and traditional intramuscular (IM) routes. The rabbits were divided into three experimental groups: (a) IPC‐R2 with a two‐site one‐week regimen; (b) TRC‐R3 with a two‐site twenty‐eight‐day regimen; and (c) Alternate‐R4 with a four‐site one‐week regimen. These regimens were then compared to the standard IM schedule of five doses of rabies vaccine administered at days 0, 3, 7, 14, and 28 in control group R‐1. The results were evaluated at days 14 and 35 postvaccination using rabies‐specific Platelia II™ ELISA kit method. The results showed a better response to the ID regimen than the IM route regarding immunogenicity and volume consumption of the vaccine. The three selected ID regimes showed significantly higher mean titer values than the control IM regimen group R‐1 (p < 0.001). The study aims to explore simple immunization strategies to enhance the RV‐specific antibody titers for immunization donor animals. This method would produce polyclonal antibodies and strengthen local production of polyclonal antibodies in Pakistan to deal with vaccine and rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) shortage, thus providing effective postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) for better control of rabies in developing countries.
Reporting of Progress toward Eliminating Viral Hepatitis B and C in the Central Asian Region
Authors: Nurmanova Bibinur
Published: May 2024

Eliminating viral hepatitis became a global goal and was targeted by countries worldwide. Using WHO, Google Scholar, PubMed, and other databases, the progress of Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan) in ending viral hepatitis B and C by 2030 was evaluated and reported. Collected data shows that countries have made significant efforts toward achieving goals in the Global Health Sector Strategy. All countries have national programs focused on hepatitis elimination and have reached the target vaccination coverage against hepatitis B. However, the available information requires regular updates, and public accessibility of data collected by governments should be enhanced. Additionally, countries are recommended to improve harm reduction and treatment services.
Design and Tensor Impedance Analysis of 4×4 Isotropic Homogeneous Metasurface-Backed Slotted Dual-Layered Bio-Superstrate-Loaded MPA
Authors: Ghosh Swarnadipto , Chakraborty Samik , Chakraborty Ayona , Gupta Bhaskar
Published: May 2024

A 4×4 Isotropic Homogeneous Metasurface (IHM) backed, rectangular slotted dual-layered triband microstrip patch antenna (MPA) is proposed in this article. A detailed mathematical way to analyze the tensor surface impedance matrix (TSIM) of the proposed 4×4 IHM and slotted patch is demonstrated. The proposed IHM-backed MPA has a triband even-mode resonance at fr0=2.45 GHz, 2fr0=5.4 GHz, and 4fr0=7.7 GHz. A better and more accurate estimation of bio-superstrate loading effect for triband resonance is employed using the human skin (εr=52.79, σs=1.39) and blood (εr=52.8, σs=1.23) layer on the top of dual-layered metasurface-backed slotted MPA. TSIM characterization is observed for both blood- and skin layer-loaded dual-layered metasurface-backed slotted MPA. Chicken breast (εr=55.2, σs=1.49, and tanδ=0.325) with blood (εr=58.2, σs=2.59, and tanδ=0.364) is loaded onto fabricated dual-layered structure to verify numerically modeled estimation. A closed form triband, even-order resonance mode (i.e., fr0, 2fr0, and 4fr0) estimation based on dielectric superstrate thickness (Hs) is numerically established using MATLAB solver. Complete measurement setup with simulated vs. measured results is compared in this article.
Relationship between Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase Inhibitors and Epileptic Seizure Disorder: A Post-Marketing Surveillance Study
Authors: Noguchi Yoshihiro , Asano Hiroki , Masuda Rikuto , Teshigawara Yuta , Go Makiko , Kimura Michio , Usami Eiseki , Yoshimura Tomoaki
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) has been to be involved in the uptake and regulation of dopamine 2 receptor (D2R), a G protein-coupled receptor expressed in various brain regions. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the relationship between ALK inhibitors and seizures is an important issue. This study investigated the relationship between ALK inhibitors and seizures. Methods: This study investigated the relationship between ALK inhibitors and seizures through a disproportionality analysis using the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). The target drugs were the ALK inhibitors crizotinib, ceritinib, alectinib, brigatinib, and lorlatinib. The seizures covered were defined high-level group term (HLGT): “Seizures (incl. subtype)” including high-level term (HLT): “seizures and seizure disorders NEC.” This study used the information component (IC), a signal score, as a Bayesian statistical method for disproportionality analysis. The signal detection criteria used in this study were the same as those reported previously: a lower limit of 95% credible interval (CrI) for IC >0. Results: The signal scores of '“seizures and seizure disorders not elsewhere classified (NEC)” “for each ALK inhibitor were crizotinib (IC: −0.00052, 95% CrI: −0.38–0.27), ceritinib (IC: 1.18, 95% CrI: 0.68–1.54), alectinib (IC: 0.68, 95% CrI: 0.19–1.02), brigatinib (IC: 1.04, 95% CrI: 0.32–1.54), and lorlatinib (IC: 0.82, 95% CrI: 0.11–1.32). On the other hand, “generalized tonic-clonic seizures,” “partial simple seizures NEC,” “absence seizures,” and “partial complex seizures” had no or few reported cases, and no signal was detected. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first report to evaluate the relationship between ALK inhibitors and seizures using post-marketing surveillance data. These results suggest that ceritinib, alectinib, brigatinib, and lorlatinib, which are highly brain-migrating drugs, are associated with seizures.
Prognostic Impact of
CYP2C19
Genotypes on Long‐Term Clinical Outcomes in Older Patients After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Kim Ju Hyeon , Lee Seung‐Jun , Cha Jung‐Joon , Park Jae Hyoung , Hong Soon Jun , Ahn Tae Hoon , Kim Byeong‐Keuk , Chang Kiyuk , Park Yongwhi , Song Young Bin , Ahn Sung Gyun , Suh Jung‐Won , Lee Sang Yeub , Cho Jung Rae , Her Ae‐Young , Jeong Young‐Hoon , Kim Hyo‐Soo , Kim Moo Hyun , Shin Eun‐Seok , Lim Do‐Sun ,   PTRG‐DES Consortium Investigators
Published: May 2024

Background

Carriers of
CYP2C19
loss‐of‐function alleles have increased adverse events after percutaneous coronary intervention, but limited data are available for older patients. We aimed to evaluate the prognostic impact of
CYP2C19
genotypes on clinical outcomes in older patients after percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods and Results

The study included 1201 older patients (aged ≥75 years) who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention and received clopidogrel‐based dual antiplatelet therapy in South Korea. Patients were grouped on the basis of
CYP2C19
genotypes. The primary outcome was 3‐year major adverse cardiac events, defined as a composite of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, and stent thrombosis. Older patients were grouped into 3 groups: normal metabolizer (36.6%), intermediate metabolizer (48.1%), and poor metabolizer (15.2%). The occurrence of the primary outcome was significantly different among the groups (3.1, 7.0, and 6.2% in the normal metabolizer, intermediate metabolizer, and poor metabolizer groups, respectively;
P
=0.02). The incidence rate of all‐cause death at 3 years was greater in the intermediate metabolizer and poor metabolizer groups (8.1% and 9.2%, respectively) compared with that in the normal metabolizer group (3.5%,
P
=0.03) without significant differences in major bleeding. In the multivariable analysis, the intermediate metabolizer and poor metabolizer groups were independent predictors of 3‐year clinical outcomes.

Conclusions

In older patients, the presence of any
CYP2C19
loss‐of‐function allele was found to be predictive of a higher incidence of major adverse cardiac events within 3 years following percutaneous coronary intervention. This finding suggests a need for further investigation into an optimal antiplatelet strategy for older patients.

Registration

URL:
https://clinicaltrials.gov
. Identifier: NCT04734028.
Youth Employability Training Model from the Perspective of Education Poverty Reduction in Kenya and Its Enlightenment to China
Authors: Qi Jia , Liu Xiao , Wu Zhong Bo , Li Yang
Published: May 2024

Since the 21st century, the solution of poverty has become the focus of international assistance. And education is considered as one of the important ways to reduce poverty, more and more attention by international organizations and developing countries. Kenya, as one of the countries with the backwardness but most promising economic and social development in East Africa. It has received the attention of the World Bank. With the assistance of the World Bank, the Government of Kenya launched the KYEP project on the basis of Vision 2030, which is based on the training concept of “Education poverty reduction for youth entrepreneurship and employment”, with the goal of “Empowering young people in employment”, implementing a demand-oriented “four-in-one” skills training course through cooperative training of the World Bank and the Government of Kenya and the private sector, and ensuring the effectiveness of the project through the establishment of a multi-entity cooperative training guarantee mechanism. Practice shows that KYEP highlights Kenya’s demand-oriented approach and has achieved remarkable results in addressing youth unemployment and education for poverty reduction.