bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Memristive Single-Neuron Model and Its Memristor-Coupled Network: Homogenously Coexisting Attractors and Parallel-Offset Synchronization
Authors: Hua Mengjie , Zhang Yunzhen , Chen Mo , Xu Quan , Bao Bocheng
Published: December 2022

To exhibit chaotic dynamics in a single neuron, a memristive single-neuron model is first constructed by replacing resistive self-synapse weight with memristive self-synapse weight. Stability analysis is performed for its switchable equilibrium point and dynamical behaviors related to the control parameters and initial conditions are explored using numerical simulations. The results show that the memristive single-neuron model can exhibit complex dynamics, especially the homogeneously coexisting chaotic/periodic attractors. Furthermore, to study the dynamical effect of memristor on network synchronization, a memristor-coupled network is constructed by coupling two identical single-neuron models with a memristor. The dynamics induced by the coupling memristor is investigated numerically and synchronous behaviors with different parallel offsets are discovered. The results indicate that the memristor-coupled network can achieve complete synchronization at large coupling strength, and parallel-offset synchronization appears when the memristor initial conditions of two subsystems are mismatched. Finally, a digital microcontroller-based hardware platform is built to verify the correctness of the numerical simulations.
Reliability and Optimal Replacement Policy for a Consecutive k-out-of-n:F System with Independent and Nonidentical Distributed Components
Authors: Özbey Fahrettin
Published: December 2022

In this study, a preventive maintenance policy for a linear (or circular) consecutive [Formula: see text]-out-of-[Formula: see text]:[Formula: see text] system with independent and nonidentical distribution components is proposed. A set of all possible states of working system is used to calculate the system’s reliability. The primary objective of this study is to determine optimal replacement time for systems with nonidentical components. The costs for each component in the proposed optimal replacement policy are different.
Energy-Efficient Model for Intruder Detection Using Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Rai Ashok Kumar , Daniel A. K.
Published: December 2022

A wireless sensor network (WSN) can be used for various purposes, including area monitoring, health care, smart cities, and defence. Numerous complex issues arise in these applications, including energy efficiency, coverage, and intruder detection. Intruder detection is a significant obstacle in various wireless sensor network applications. It causes data fusion that jeopardizes the network’s confidentiality, lifespan, and coverage. Various algorithm has been proposed for intruder detection where each node act as an agent, or some monitoring nodes are deployed for intruder detection. The proposed protocol detects intruders by transmitting a known bit from the Cluster Head (CH) to all nodes. The legal nodes must acknowledge their identification to the CH in order to be valid; otherwise, if the CH receives an incorrect acknowledgement from a node or receives no acknowledgement at all, it is an intruder. The proposed protocol assists in protecting sensor data from unauthorized access and detecting the intruder with its location through the identity of other legal nodes. The simulation results show that the proposed protocol delivers better results for identifying intruders for various parameters.
Entropy estimates for uniform attractors of 2D Navier–Stokes equations with weakly normal measures
Authors: Xiong Yangmin , Song Xiaoya , Sun Chunyou
Published: December 2022

This paper aims at the long-time behavior of non-autonomous 2D Navier–Stokes equations with a class of external forces which are [Formula: see text]-valued measures in time. We first establish the well-posedness of solutions as well as the existence of a strong uniform attractor, and then pay the main attention on the estimation of [Formula: see text]-entropy for such uniform attractor in the standard energy phase space.
Mechanical properties and acoustic emission response of carbonate fault breccias: a study from Greece
Authors: Kallimogiannis Vasileios , Saroglou Charalampos
Published: December 2022

The present study aims to investigate the mechanical properties and acoustic emission (AE) response of carbonate fault rocks in Lefkada Island, Greece. In the aforementioned region, tectonic processes have resulted in the formation of fault breccias with poor mechanical properties and complex behaviour. In these weak formations, conventional laboratory testing methods are restricted due to disintegration during sampling and specimen preparation. A novel sample preparation and laboratory testing technique are used jointly with a back-analysis of a co-seismic landslide that occurred during a M
w
6.5 earthquake in 2015. These two approaches are employed to characterize and predict the mechanical behaviour of these formations. The uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of the fault breccias, determined in the laboratory, has a wide range due primarily to the complex nature of the material. The back-analysis, using a 3D limit equilibrium method, proves that the shear strength of the
in situ
material is significantly lower than that determined in the laboratory. Finally, the acoustic emission response of fault breccias was different compared to that of brittle rocks. Both
b
-value analysis and the damage variable evolution indicate that the accumulated damage within fault breccias is higher than expected, and thus they are more prone to fatigue.

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Leading to Innovative Engineering Geology Practices collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/topic/collections/leading-to-innovative-engineering-geology-practices
The End of Programming
Authors: Welsh Matt
Published: December 2022

The end of classical computer science is coming, and most of us are dinosaurs waiting for the meteor to hit.
Simulating Interaction Movements via Model Predictive Control
Authors: Klar Markus , Fischer Florian , Fleig Arthur , Bachinski Miroslav , Müller Jörg
Published: December 2022

We present a Model Predictive Control (MPC) framework to simulate movement in interaction with computers, focusing on mid-air pointing as an example. Starting from understanding interaction from an Optimal Feedback Control (OFC) perspective, we assume that users aim at minimizing an internalized cost function, subject to the constraints imposed by the human body and the interactive system. Unlike previous approaches used in HCI, MPC can compute optimal controls for nonlinear systems. This allows to use state-of-the-art biomechanical models and handle nonlinearities that occur in almost any interactive system. Instead of torque actuation, our model employs second-order muscles acting directly at the joints. We compare three different cost functions and evaluate the simulation against user movements in a pointing study. Our results show that the combination of distance, control, and joint acceleration cost matches individual users’ movements best, and predicts movements with an accuracy that is within the between-user variance. To aid HCI researchers and designers in applying our approach for different users, interaction techniques, or tasks, we make our SimMPC framework, including CFAT, a tool to identify maximum voluntary torques in joint-actuated models, publicly available, and give step-by-step instructions.
The Effect of Boron Doping Concentration on the Electrochemical Oxidation of Chlorine Using BDD Electrode
Authors: Li Zhishen , Zhou Bo , Yang Wanlin , Deng Zejun , Chen Fenglei , Bai Hena , Sharel P. E. , Ma Li , Wei Quiping , Long Hangyu
Published: December 2022

Boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrode is an excellent candidate for anodic electrochemical oxidation of wastewater. However, higher concentrations of ClO3
− and ClO4
− of biotoxicity was found during chloride electrolysis using BDD electrodes compared to other electrode materials. In this study, BDD electrodes with five different boron doping concentrations were fabricated on silicon substrates using hot-filament chemical vapor deposition (HFCVD) method. The physical and electrochemical characterisation were conducted, which confirmed that with the decrease of boron concentration, the crystal size of the diamond decreased, oxygen evolution potential decreased, charge transfer resistance decreased while the electro-active surface area (EASA) increased. The electrochemical oxidation experiments of NaCl solution were carried out with these five BDD electrodes and time-dependent traces of product concentrations, current efficiencies and energy consumptions were compared and discussed. When the boron concentration increased, the minimum energy required to produce unit active chlorine (AC) decreased initially then increased, the same tendency was found in the yields of ClO3
− and ClO4
−. The lightly doped BDD (1.23 × 1020 cm−3) showed low energy consumption and high yield of AC, and low yields of ClO3
− and ClO4
−. Electrolysis of chlorine-containing organic wastewater was studied which further demonstrated the good performance of lightly doped BDD electrode.
Improvement of Surface Quality for Titanium Alloys During Counter-Rotating Electrochemical Machining Using an Auxiliary Cathode
Authors: Cao Wenjian , Wang Dengyong , Zhu Di
Published: December 2022

Counter-rotating electrochemical machining (CRECM) is an innovative ECM method that can be used to manufacture revolving parts, especially titanium alloy casings. Because titanium alloys are easily passivated metals, sufficient electrical quantity is required to achieve the transition from pitting to smoothing with a lower speed. However, a low rotational speed means more material is removed in a machining cycle, which is not conducive to wall thickness control. Therefore, achieving fast smoothing at a relatively high rotational speed for titanium alloys is focused. In this paper, the proposed methodology applies an auxiliary cathode to accelerate the transition from pitting corrosion to smoothness of titanium alloys at a relatively high rotational speed. Experimental results show that titanium alloy can be smoothed regardless of rotational speed with an auxiliary cathode. The auxiliary cathode can weaken the off-current density region and accelerate the breakdown of the oxide layer, and the layer-by-layer dissolution of micron-thick materials is achieved at a relatively high rotational speed. The grid-like convex structure is produced at a relatively high rotational speed with an auxiliary cathode, and the surface roughness is 1.808 μm. This fully demonstrates the reliability of the auxiliary cathode for achieving the smoothness of titanium alloys.
Perspective—Morphology and Dynamics of Metal Dendrites in Batteries Revealed by X-ray Computed Tomography
Authors: Qian Guannan , Zan Guibin , Pianetta Piero , Liu Yijin
Published: December 2022

Metal dendrite is one of the most common issues in a variety of rechargeable batteries. It deteriorates cell capacity, increases interphase adverse reactions, and causes safety concerns. X-ray computed tomography facilitates an operando/in situ visualization of the three-dimensional (3D) morphology of the dendrites and their dynamic evolutions during battery operation. In this Perspective, we discuss the important technical developments and challenges when utilizing X-ray computed tomography for investigating the dendrite formation and growth in several different battery systems. In addition, we provide our perspective for the future directions and challenges in the field.
The Electrochemical Stabilization of Silicon Anodes via a Locally Concentrated LiNO3 Complex
Authors: Gupta Abhay , Yang Zhenzhen , Trask Stephen , Bloom Ira , Johnson Christopher
Published: December 2022

The solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) plays an integral role in regulating the stability of lithium-ion batteries, particularly those employing next-generation anode materials like lithium (Li)-metal or silicon (Si). Herein, a locally concentrated additive framework is designed to incorporate a LiNO3 sacrificial additive into conventional carbonate-containing electrolytes to heighten electrochemical stability in such systems. Though LiNO3 is effectively insoluble in carbonate solvents, it is introduced in moderate amounts to the electrolyte in the form of a highly concentrated diglyme complex, which is then dispersed and diluted throughout the bulk carbonate electrolyte in a homogenous, liquid, phase-stable solution. The addition of this additive complex considerably enhances the electrochemical stability of 4 V systems containing Li-metal or Si anodes over the course of cycling as well as during potentiostatic holds. It is shown that the sacrificial reduction of LiNO3 leads to the formation of favorable nitrogen-containing species on the surface of Si, like what is known to occur with Li-metal. However, the initial deposition of these products is found to transform the SEI towards having greater inorganic character overall, with significantly more embedded LiF throughout. These insights expand our understanding of electrolyte and SEI design for electrochemically resilient next-generation anode systems.
The NLRP3 Genetic Variant (rs10754555) Reduces the Risk of Adverse Outcome in Middle-Aged Patients with Chronic Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Opstad Trine B. , Nordeng Jostein , Pettersen Alf-Aage R. , Åkra Sissel , Bratseth Vibeke , Zaidi Hani , Helseth Ragnhild , Solheim Svein , Seljeflot Ingebjørg
Published: December 2022

Background. Inflammation is central in development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Aberrant function of the Nod-Like Receptor Protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, a central mediator in the proinflammatory response, has been associated with atherosclerosis. The influence of genetic determinants on this inflammatory pathway and its downstream effects is less known. We aimed to investigate the frequency of a single NLRP3 gene variant according to clinical outcome in CVD and its influence on NLRP3-related markers. Methods. In this observational study, we included 1001 patients with chronic coronary syndrome. Blood samples were drawn at inclusion, including whole-blood and PAXgene tubes for DNA and RNA isolation, respectively. Allelic discrimination of the NLRP3 single nucleotide polymorphism rs10754555 was performed; and gene expression of NLRP3, Toll-Like Receptor 4, Interleukin- (IL-) 1β, and IL-18 was relatively quantified, both methods by RT-PCR. Circulating IL-6, high-sensitivity (hs) C-reactive protein, IL-18, and IL-12 were measured by enzyme-like immunosorbent assays. Clinical endpoints during 2 years (

n
=
106

) were a composite of unstable angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, nonhemorrhagic stroke, and death. Results. Minor allele frequency of the NLRP3 variant was 0.36. In all, no association of the NLRP3 variant with clinical subgroups or outcome was found, neither any significant influence on the genes’ mRNA expression or circulating protein. However, in

subjects
<
56

years (25 percentile), the variant G-allele is associated with significant lower risk of suffering a composite event (

OR
=
0.43

(95% CI 0.19, 0.97),

p
=
0.043

, adjusted). In the same age group, the NLRP3 gene was accordingly downregulated in G-allele carriers vs. noncarriers, and circulating IL12 was significantly reduced (

p
<
0.05

, both). In

subjects
>
56

years, no significant effect of the variant was observed. Conclusion. The age-related reduced risk of composite endpoint in rs10754555 G-allele carriers accompanied by diminished NLRP3 mRNA expression is hypothesis generating and needs to be further explored. The study is registered at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov, with identification number NCT00222261.
Mathematical Modeling of Wax Deposition in Field-Scale Crude Oil Pipeline Systems
Authors: Ochieng Francis Oketch , Kinyanjui Mathew Ngugi , Abonyo Jeconia Okelo , Kiogora Phineas Roy
Published: December 2022

The formation of solid wax crystals, which interlock and form a gel-like layer on the inner wall of the crude oil pipeline, influences the transportation of waxy crude oil. The deposited layer grows continuously and hardens during the oil transportation, reducing the effective inside diameter of the crude oil pipeline and the flow rate. In extreme cases, the deposited layer may block the crude oil pipeline leading to a loss of production and capital investment. In this paper, wax deposition from multiphase flow in field-scale oil pipeline transport systems has been studied. The novelty of this work is to develop a mathematical model that incorporates water-in-oil emulsions, wax precipitation kinetics, molecular diffusion, and shear dispersion to enable accurate predictions of both the wax deposit growth rate and aging of the deposit. The coupled nonlinear partial differential equations governing the flow are discretized in time by a second-order semi-implicit time discretization scheme based on the Adams-Bashforth and Crank-Nicolson methods, which completely decouples the computation of the governing equations. The resulting temporal schemes are discretized in space by the bivariate spectral collocation method based on Chebyshev-Gauss-Lobatto grid points and simulated in MATLAB software to obtain the profiles of the flow variables. The simulation results are presented in graphical and in tabular forms and discussed. This study found that the deposit thickness is directly proportional to the Reynolds number and inversely proportional to the mass Grashof number, Schmidt number, and Weber number. Deposit aging is rampant during the early stages of wax deposition, after which it stabilizes at a specific value as time elapses. A deposition model to predict the wax deposit thickness and aging is proposed in this study. The findings of this study will help in making informed decisions on the planning of pigging operations, thermal insulation, and other remediation techniques to be applied in controlling wax deposition in field-scale crude oil pipeline systems.
Prevalence, Causes, and Risk Factors of Presenting Visual Impairment and Presenting Blindness in Adults Presenting to an Examination Center in Suzhou, China
Authors: Sun Ruizhu , Huang Dan , Liu Zhenxing , Zhu Tingting , Gu Zheyao , Ma Ge , Wang Yun , Zhang Chunyuan , Luo Xiangying , Tang Zhigang , Xi Ting , Xie Fangfei
Published: December 2022

Purpose. To evaluate the prevalence, causes, and risk factors of presenting visual impairment (PVI) and presenting blindness among adults in Suzhou, China. Methods. A total of 43927 subjects were included in this cross-sectional study. Each subject underwent ophthalmic examinations, including presenting visual acuity (PVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), slit-lamp examination, and fundus examination under the small pupils of each eye. Results. Using the World Health Organization (WHO) definition, the prevalence of bilateral PVI, bilateral presenting blindness, monocular PVI, and monocular presenting blindness was 1.59% (95% CI, 1.51–1.67), 0.002% (95% CI, 0.0019–0.0021), 3.87% (95% CI, 3.68–4.06), and 0.19% (95% CI, 0.18–0.20), respectively. Using the United States (US) definition, the prevalence of bilateral PVI, bilateral presenting blindness, monocular PVI, and monocular presenting blindness was 5.83% (95% CI, 5.54–6.12), 0.04% (95% CI, 0.038–0.042), 7.43% (95% CI, 7.06–7.80), and 0.45% (95% CI, 0.43–0.47), respectively. The prevalence of PVI was higher in females (WHO criteria, 2.06%, 95% CI, 1.96–2.16; US criteria, 7.27%, 95% CI, 6.91–7.63) than in males (WHO criteria, 1.2%, 95 CI%, 1.14–1.26; US criteria, 4.65%, 95% CI, 4.42–4.89). The leading cause of PVI is an uncorrected refractive error, followed by cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Multivariate analysis proved that the prevalence of visual impairment (PVA, better eye, WHO criteria) increased significantly with older age, higher mean arterial pressure (MAP), higher globulin level, and higher fasting blood glucose (FBG). In addition, it also increased significantly with lower hemoglobin, a lower body mass index (BMI), and a lower arterial stiffness index. In this study, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, uric acid, triglycerides, and the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) showed no association with visual impairment. Conclusion. The leading causes of PVI in Suzhou were uncorrected refractive error and cataracts. The prevalence of PVI increased with females, older age, higher MAP, higher FBG, higher globulin, lower hemoglobin, lower BMI, and lower arterial stiffness index.
Chewing Khat Transmission Dynamics: A Mathematical Model and Stability Analysis
Authors: Fantaye Abayneh Kebede , Birhanu Zerihun Kinfe
Published: December 2022

In this study, the authors proposed a nonlinear deterministic model and stability analysis for the transmission dynamics of chewing khat. The model’s solution is proved to be positive and bounded, and the basic reproduction number (

R

0

) is calculated using the next-generation matrix method. Following that, the authors have looked at the local and global stability of the model’s khat-free and endemic equilibrium points. When

R

0

<
1

, the chewing khat-free equilibrium point is locally and globally asymptotically stable, whereas when

R

0

>
1

, the endemic equilibrium point is locally and globally asymptotically stable. The simulation results demonstrate the analytical results.
The Effect of the Tongyang Huoxue Recipe (TYHX) on the Ito/IKur in Ischemia/Reperfusion Sinoatrial Node Cells
Authors: Wang Yanli , Wu Qiaomin , Liu Jinfeng , Liu Ruxiu
Published: December 2022

Background. The transient outward potassium current (Ito) and the ultrarapid delayed rectifier potassium current (IKur) are major potassium currents involved in the repolarization process of sinoatrial node cells (SNCs). Methods and Results. The SNCs of neonatal rats were divided into control, ischemia/reperfusion (I/R), I/R+blank serum, and Tongyang Huoxue recipe (TYHX) serum groups. Ito and IKur were recorded using the whole cell patch-clamp technique, and the current-voltage (I-V), steady-state activation (SSA), steady-state inactivation (SSI), and recovery from inactivation (RFI) curves were plotted, respectively. Compared to the control group, both the peak current density and the current density at the voltage of Ito and IKur decreased obviously in SNCs after simulated I/R, the SSA curves moved right, and the SSI curves moved left. After TYHX was added to the extracellular solution of SNCs, both the peak current density and the current density at the voltage of Ito and IKur increased significantly, the SSA curves moved left, and the SSI curves moved right with a significant difference of

V

1
/
2

. The recovery from the IKur RFI curves was slightly restored, and the Ito curves did not change. Conclusions. TYHX increases the peak current density, accelerates the activation, and decreases the inactivation of the Ito and IKur. This may be the mechanism of TYHX in shortening the action potential duration of repolarization, which accelerates spontaneous pulsation.
New Graduate Nurses’ Experiences and Challenges during a One‐Year Clinical Rotation Programme in the Volta Region of Ghana: Implications for Nursing Management and Nursing Workforce Retention
Authors: Adatara Peter , Boni George Sedinam
Published: December 2022

Background. To help improve the standards and quality of nursing practice, newly graduated nurses and midwives are required after passing the Nursing and Midwifery Council’s Licensing Examination to undertake a one‐year mandatory clinical rotation at health facilities before registration. However, there is a lack of scientific studies to explore new graduate nurses’ experiences and challenges during the one‐year mandatory clinical rotation programme. Aim. This study is aimed at exploring newly qualified nurses’ experiences and challenges during the one‐year mandatory clinical rotation in health facilities in the Volta Region of Ghana. Methods. This qualitative exploratory study used a combination of focus group discussions (FGDs) and individual interviews. Thirty (30) newly qualified nurses were selected from two secondary and one tertiary health facilities, where newly qualified nurses are posted for a clinical rotation programmes to participate in the study. A total of two focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted, comprising five (5) members in each group. Moreover, twenty (20) newly qualified nurses were interviewed individually, and their data were added to what was obtained from the focus group discussions. This study adopted the thematic analysis approach to analyze the data. Results. The results of this study showed that newly qualified nurses experienced the following during the one‐year clinical rotation programme: acquisition of more knowledge and competencies to assume professional nursing roles; lack of knowledge of the objectives of the clinical rotation programme by hospital staff; experience of frustration during the clinical rotation programme; inadequate supervision and support; accommodation and financial challenges. Conclusion. The study revealed important challenges experienced by new graduate nurses during the clinical rotation programme, including hospital staff’s lack of knowledge regarding the objectives of the rotation programme, inadequate supervision and support, and accommodation and financial challenges. There is a need for the Nursing and Midwifery Council to develop guidelines for the one‐year mandatory clinical rotation for newly graduated nurses and midwives to make the programme more effective.
USPs in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Comprehensive Bioinformatic Analysis of Expression, Prognostic Significance, and Immune Infiltration
Authors: Wang Yizhi , Zhou Dongkai , Kong Yang , Yang Qifan , Ding Yuan , Wang Weilin
Published: December 2022

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), as an intractable malignancy, still causes an extremely high mortality worldwide. The ubiquitin‐specific protease (USP) family constitutes the major part of deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) which has been reported to be involved in initiation and progression of various malignancies via the function of deubiquitination. However, the biological function and clinical values of USPs in PDAC have not been comprehensively elucidated. In this study, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets, UALCAN database, and the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) online tool were used to analyze the expression level and the relationship between USP expression and clinicopathological features in PDAC. Survival module of HPA and Kaplan‐Meier plotter (KMP) databases was recruited to explore the prognostic value of USPs. Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) online tool and KMP databases were utilized to elucidate tumor immune infiltration and immune‐related survival of USPs. CBioPortal online tool was used to identify the gene mutation level of USPs in PDAC. Both cBioPortal and LinkedOmics were used to confirm the potential biological functions of USPs in PDAC. Our study showed that USP10, USP14, USP18, USP32, USP33, and USP39 (termed as six‐USPs) expressions were significantly elevated in tumor tissues. The high expression of the four USPs (USP10, USP14, USP18, and USP39) indicated a poor prognosis. A significant relationship was indicated between the expression of six‐USPs and clinicopathological features. Also, the expression of six‐USPs was related to promoter methylation level. Moreover, more than 40% genetic alterations and mutations were discovered in six‐USPs. Furthermore, the six‐USP expression was correlated with immune infiltration and immune‐related prognosis. The functional analysis found that the six‐USPs were involved in various biological processes and signaling pathways, such as nucleocytoplasmic transport, choline metabolism in cancer, cell cycle, ErbB signaling pathway, RIG‐I‐like receptor signaling pathway, TGF‐β signaling pathway, and TNF signaling pathway. In conclusion, the results showed that six‐USPs are potential prognostic biomarkers and can be recruited as possible therapeutic targets of PDAC.
Purification and Characterization of Bioactive Metabolite from Streptomyces monomycini RVE129 Derived from the Rift Valley Soil of Hawassa, Ethiopia
Authors: Elias Firew , Muddada Sudhamani , Muleta Diriba , Tefera Belachew
Published: December 2022

Streptomyces species have produced a variety of bioactive secondary metabolites with intriguing antimicrobial and anticancer properties. In this study, the bioactive compound obtained from the potent strain RVE129 was purified and characterized. Its bioactivity against various pathogens and its cytotoxicity toward the human cervical cancer (HeLa) cell were also examined. The strain was previously isolated from unexplored areas of the rift valley soil of Hawassa (Ethiopia) and identified by phenotypic characteristics and complete sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene and found to be closely related to Streptomyces monomycini strain NRRL B‐24309 (99.65%); accession no. (ON786620). The active fraction undergoes bioassay‐guided purification using the TLC method after being extracted by ethyl acetate. Then, it was subjected to physicochemical and structural characteristics using UV–Vis, FTIR, and NMR spectroscopic methods. A minimum inhibitory concentration of the purified antibiotic was achieved by the broth microdilution method. The cytotoxicity of HeLa cells was determined using the 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazole‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The acquired data from spectroscopic studies was compared with that of the reported natural compounds in data bases and found to be the known antibiotic, setamycin. The antibiotic (RVE‐02) showed a broad spectrum of bioactivity against both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, with MIC values that ranged from 1.97 to 125 μg/ml. The bioactivity results also demonstrated antiproliferation and morphological change in HeLa cells with an IC50 value of 24.30μg/ml of antibiotic. The antibiotic, obtained from S. monomycini RVE129, could be a potential candidate to combat pathogens including drug‐resistant S. aureus. Further, the effect on HeLa cells suggests that it could be a prominent cancer chemotherapeutic agent.
Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Salmonella in Poultry Products in Central Ethiopia
Authors: Asefa Kebede Isayas , Duga Tefari
Published: December 2022

Salmonellosis is a bacterial infection caused by salmonella, a member of the Enterobacteriaceae family. From December 2021 to May 2021, a cross-sectional study was carried out to isolate Salmonella from poultry farms in the towns of Bishoftu and Adama and to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility frequency of the isolates. A total of 384 samples were tested for the presence of Salmonella, including 259 feces, 56 eggs, and 69 types of meat, using the ISO, 2002 standard procedures. The raw data were organized, coded, and entered into an Excel spreadsheet before being analyzed with STATA via descriptive analysis with chi-square. From 384 collected samples, 62 (16.15%) isolates were obtained, with 9.9%, 3.65, and 2.6% found in feces, eggs, and meat, respectively. Statistically, there was a significant difference between breeds (pvalue = 0.036). Bovines had the highest prevalence (32.83%), while Saso had the lowest (30.81%). The variation within each sample type, housing condition, and age group was not statistically significant (pvalue >0.05). Antimicrobial resistance was found in 29 (96.77%) of the isolates. Ampicillin and sulphamethoxazole-trimethoprim were effective against all isolates. Salmonella was isolated from various locations, sample types, ages, and breeds, indicating a wider distribution. Salmonellosis detection isolates suggested that it could be an emerging poultry and public health issue. As a result, future research should concentrate on isolating and identifying salmonella from poultry in backyard systems and comparing it to that of an intensive farm, as well as molecular characterization for serotyping and genetic studies, as well as genes responsible for salmonella pathogenicity and drug resistance.
The Complex Management of the Breast Angiosarcoma: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Cannella Lucia , Perri Francesco , Clemente Ottavia , von Arx Claudia , Pizzolorusso Antonio , Di Bonito Maurizio , Bracigliano Alessandra , Di Marzo Massimiliano , Della Vittoria Scarpati Giuseppina , De Chiara Annarosaria , Tafuto Salvatore
Published: December 2022

Background/Aim: Breast angiosarcoma is a rare and aggressive disease with a poor prognosis. Two subtypes have been identified: primary angiosarcoma (PBA) and secondary breast angiosarcoma (SBA). In this retrospective analysis, we describe and compare our institute experience with the data existing in the literature. Materials and Methods: We included in our analysis 29 patients who received a diagnosis of PBA or SBA between 2006 and 2019. Results: All patients received surgery as frontline treatment, but only 6 patients underwent to adjuvant treatment. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was administered 2 patients. The preferred chemotherapeutic regimen was taxanes with or without gemcitabine and associated with anthracyclines. A lower median RFS and OS were reported in patients with PBA compared to those with SBA, but the difference observed was not statistically significant. Patients with PBA had a lower median age at the diagnosis (38 vs. 75). Conclusion: In our analysis, we have shown a lower median RFS and OS in patients with PBA compared with those with SBA, and a significantly younger age at diagnosis in patients affected by PBA.
Specimen-Based Resection Margins and Local Control during Transoral Robotic Surgery for Oropharyngeal HPV-Mediated Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Magliocca Kelly R. , Kaka Azeem S. , Barrow Emily M. , Studer Matthew B. , Griffith Christopher C. , Ernst Jacqueline , Meade Tara , Balicki Andrew , Boyce Brian J. , Schmitt Nicole C. , Bur Andres M. , Schmitt Alessandra C. , Jackson Ryan , Steuer Conor E. , Beitler Jonathan J. , Patel Mihir R.
Published: December 2022

Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate the association of surgical margin conditions, including positive specimen margins revised to negative relative to local recurrence, disease-free survival, and overall survival (OS) within a cohort of HPV-mediated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) who underwent en bloc resection via transoral robotic surgery (TORS). Materials and Methods: Retrospective cohort of patients with untreated HPV-mediated OPSCC cT1 or T2 undergoing TORS resection between October 2014 and March 2020. The methodologic description of our interdisciplinary institutional approach, number of cut-through margins (CTMs) during intraoperative consultation, percentage of final positive margin cases, and disease-free survival and OS stratified by margin status and margin tumor-free distance is identified. Results: 135 patients with primary cT1/T2 HPV-mediated OPSCC met inclusion criteria. Twenty-eight of 135 (20.7%) specimens revealed CTM and were revised during the same operative setting. Three of 135 (2.2%) surgical cases had positive final margin status. Local control rate was 97%. On univariate analysis, margin distance did not impact OS. CTM and final positive margins had lower OS than initially negative margins (p = 0.044). Pathologic N-stage significantly impacted OS (p < 0.001). Conclusions: High local control rate and low final positive margin status confound the study of specimen margin-based techniques in HPV-mediated OPSCC resected en bloc with TORS. Pathologic N-stage may impact OS more than margin status. Larger numbers are needed to confirm differences.
Migraine Disability and Severity Improvement during Long-Term Treatment with Erenumab
Authors: Bolchini Marco , Schiano di Cola Francesca , Ceccardi Giulia , Caratozzolo Salvatore , Liberini Paolo , Rao Renata , Padovani Alessandro
Published: December 2022

The aim of the present study was to assess erenumab efficacy in migraine disability and intensity throughout the first treatment cycle, discontinuation, and the first 6 months of re-treatment in patients with high-frequency episodic migraine. The study design was retrospective and observational. Inclusion criteria were the following: diagnosis of high-frequency episodic migraine and ongoing treatment with erenumab 140 mg currently at their second treatment cycle. Data regarding migraine frequency, disability (MIDAS score), and severity of attacks (NRS score) were collected quarterly. Twenty-five patients were enrolled. At the end of the first treatment cycle, compared to baseline, a significant improvement of MIDAS scores was found (13.5 ± 11.1 vs. 72.5 ± 32.1; p = 0.005), with a subsequent worsening during treatment suspension (30.1 ± 26.9; p = 0.03). Pain intensity remained unmodified during the first treatment cycle (NRS score baseline: 7.6 ± 0.9 vs. 12 months: 7.5 ± 0.7; p = 0.13). During re-treatment, MIDAS scores documented a new significant improvement, reaching the same level at 6 months of re-treatment as at the end of the first cycle (30.1 ± 26.9 vs. 12.9 ± 5.4; p = 0.03). A significant improvement, compared to baseline, was observed for pain intensity during re-treatment (6.8 ± 2.2 vs. 5.6 ± 0.9 at RT3 vs. 5.2 ± 1.4 at RT6; p = 0.05). In conclusion, during re-treatment with erenumab 140 mg, migraine pain intensity and disability documented a significant and progressive improvement. Our data confirm the long-term efficacy, although in a very limited case series, of monoclonal antibodies targeting CGRP beyond headache frequency reduction.
Screen-Detected Atrial Fibrillation and “Micro-Atrial Fibrillation” and Risk of Cardiovascular Events after Myocardial Infarction in Elderly Patients
Authors: Berge Trygve , Myhre Peder Langeland , Kalstad Are Annesønn , Laake Kristian , Tveit Sjur Hansen , Onarheim Sophia , Solheim Svein , Seljeflot Ingebjørg , Arnesen Harald , Tveit Arnljot
Published: December 2022

Background: Incident atrial fibrillation (AF) occurs in 5–10% of patients after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and is associated with adverse outcomes. Guidelines now recommend screening for AF in all elderly patients. However, the relevance of screen-detected AF and short episodes of irregular supraventricular ectopic beats (“micro-AF”) after AMI is unknown. Objectives: The objective of the study was to investigate the value of 2-week intermittent ECG screening to detect incident AF and “micro-AF” in elderly patients 12 months after an AMI and its association with risk of cardiovascular events. Methods: This was an investigator-initiated, multicenter sub-study of the OMega-3 fatty acids in Elderly patients with Myocardial Infarction (OMEMI) trial, in Norway. Women and men aged 70–82 years, with a recent AMI, were recruited during 2012–2018. All participants had a 12-lead ECG performed at 3, 12, and 24 months. Patients without AF 1 year after the index AMI underwent 2 weeks of intermittent 30-s “thumb ECG” screening. Incident AF and “micro-AF” (episodes of ≥3 consecutive irregular supraventricular ectopic beats) were registered, and the association with risk of major cardiovascular events (MACEs; nonfatal AMI, stroke, coronary revascularization, hospitalization for heart failure, or all-cause death) was analyzed with logistic regression. Results: Among 1014 patients (198 [28.7%] women), 255 (25.1%) had known AF or AF identified at baseline. New-onset AF was detected clinically or at study visits in 39 (3.8%) patients. By screening participants without AF (n = 567), unknown AF was identified in 4 (0.7%) and “micro-AF” in 27 (4.8%) patients. Among 43 patients with incident AF, 21 (48.8%) experienced a MACE, which was significantly higher than those without AF (n = 114, 15.9%; p < 0.001), driven by a higher risk of AMI or revascularization. Nine (33.3%) patients with “micro-AF” and 75 (13.9%) without “micro-AF” experienced a MACE (p = 0.002), explained mostly by a higher risk of heart failure hospitalization (p < 0.001). Using patients without AF and “micro-AF” as reference, “micro-AF” was associated with an intermediate risk of MACE (OR 2.8; 95% CI 1.2–6.4) and new-onset AF with a high risk of MACE (OR 5.3; 95% CI 2.8–10.0). Conclusions: Two-week intermittent ECG screening identified few cases of new-onset AF but a substantial number of patients with “micro-AF.” “Micro-AF” was associated with an increased risk of major cardiovascular events, albeit with an intermediate risk compared to those with new-onset AF.
Rehospitalization Events After Aortic Valve Replacement: Insights From the PARTNER Trial
Authors: Huded Chetan P. , Arnold Suzanne V. , Chhatriwalla Adnan K. , Saxon John T. , Kapadia Samir , Yu Xiao , Webb John G. , Thourani Vinod H. , Kodali Susheel K. , Smith Craig R. , Mack Michael J. , Leon Martin B. , Cohen David J.
Published: December 2022

Background:

Rehospitalization is a common end point in clinical trials of structural heart interventions, but whether rehospitalization is clinically and prognostically relevant in these patients is uncertain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk of rehospitalization events after aortic valve replacement (AVR) and their association with mortality and health status.

Methods:

The study population included patients who underwent transcatheter or surgical AVR in the PARTNER I‚ II‚ and III trials (Placement of Aortic Transcatheter Valves). Health status was assessed with the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire-overall summary score. The primary analysis focused on heart failure hospitalization within 1 year after AVR and its association with mortality, poor outcome (death, Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire-overall summary score <60 or decrease by ≥10), and health status at 1 year using adjusted models. Secondary analyses examined the prognostic associations of rehospitalization due to a composite of heart failure, valve-related, or procedure-related causes.

Results:

Among 3403 patients treated with AVR (2008 transcatheter AVR, 1395 surgical AVR), the 1-year incidence was 6.7% for heart failure hospitalization and 9.7% for rehospitalization due to a composite of heart failure, valve-related, or procedure-related causes. Heart failure hospitalization after AVR was associated with increased risk of 1-year mortality (hazard ratio, 3.97 [2.48 to 6.36];
P
<0.001), poor outcome (OR, 2.76 [1.73 to 4.40];
P
<0.001), and worse health status (Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire-overall summary mean difference −9.8 points [−13.8 to −5.8];
P
<0.001). Rehospitalization due to a composite of heart failure, valve-related, or procedure-related causes was similarly associated with increased 1-year mortality (hazard ratio, 4.64 [3.11 to 6.92];
P
<0.001), poor outcome (OR, 2.06 [1.38 to 3.07];
P
=0.0004), and worse health status (Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire-overall summary mean difference −8.8 points [−11.8 to −5.7];
P
<0.001). There was no effect modification by treatment type (transcatheter AVR versus surgical AVR) for these associations.

Conclusions:

Heart failure hospitalization and rehospitalization after AVR are associated with increased risk of mortality and worse 1-year health status. These findings confirm the clinical and prognostic relevance of rehospitalization end points for trials of AVR.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT00530894.
Emergency Medical Services Stroke Care Performance Variability in Michigan: Analysis of a Statewide Linked Stroke Registry
Authors: Oostema J. Adam , Nickles Adrienne , Luo Zhehui , Reeves Mathew J.
Published: December 2022

Background

Emergency medical services (EMS) compliance with recommended prehospital care for patients with acute stroke is inconsistent; however, sources of variability in compliance are not well understood. The current analysis utilizes a linkage between a statewide stroke registry and EMS information system data to explore patient and EMS agency‐level contributions to variability in prehospital care.

Methods and Results

This is a retrospective analysis of a cohort of confirmed stroke cases transported by EMS to hospitals participating in a statewide stroke registry. Using EMS information system data, the authors quantified EMS compliance with 6 performance measures derived from national guidelines for prehospital stroke care: prehospital stroke scale performance, glucose check, stroke recognition, on‐scene time ≤15 minutes, time last known well documentation, and hospital prenotification. Multilevel multivariable logistic regression analysis was then used to examine associations between patient‐level demographic and clinical characteristics and EMS compliance while accounting for and quantifying the variation attributable to agency of transport and recipient hospital.

Over an 18‐month period, EMS and stroke registry records were linked for 5707 EMS‐transported stroke cases. Compliance ranged from 24% of cases for last known well documentation to 82% for documentation of a glucose check. The other measures were documented in approximately half of cases. Older age, higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, and earlier presentation were associated with more compliant prehospital care. EMS agencies accounted for more than half of the variation in EMS prehospital stroke scale documentation and last known well documentation and 27% of variation in glucose check but <10% of stroke recognition and prenotification variability.

Conclusions

EMS stroke care remains highly variable across different performance measures and EMS agencies. EMS agency and electronic medical record type are important sources of variability in compliance with key prehospital performance metrics for stroke.
Interleukin‐29 Accelerates Vascular Calcification via JAK2/STAT3/BMP2 Signaling
Authors: Hao Nannan , Zhou Zihao , Zhang Feifei , Li Yong , Hu Rui , Zou Junjie , Zheng Rui , Wang Lei , Xu Lingxiao , Tan Wenfeng , Li Chunjian , Wang Fang
Published: December 2022

Background

Vascular calcification (VC), associated with enhanced cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, is characterized by the osteogenic transdifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells. Inflammation promotes VC initiation and progression. Interleukin (IL)‐29, a newly discovered member of type III interferon, has recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Here we evaluated the role of IL‐29 in the VC process and underlying inflammatory mechanisms.

Methods and Results

The mRNA expression of IL‐29 was significantly increased and positively associated with an increase in BMP2 (bone morphogenetic protein 2) mRNA level in calcified carotid arteries from patients with coronary artery disease or chronic kidney disease. IL‐29 and BMP2 proteins are colocalized in human calcified arteries. IL‐29 binding to its specific receptor IL‐28Rα (IL‐28 receptor α) (IL‐29/IL‐28Rα) inhibited the proliferation of rat vascular smooth muscle cells without altering cell apoptosis or migration. IL‐29 promoted the calcification of rat vascular smooth muscle cells and their osteogenic transdifferentiation in vitro as well as the rat aortic ring calcification ex vivo, induced by the calcification medium or osteogenic medium. The procalcification effect of IL‐29 was reduced by pharmacological inhibition of IL‐29/IL‐28Rα binding as well as suppression of janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription pathway activation, accompanied by decreased BMP2 expression in the cultured rat vascular smooth muscle cells.

Conclusions

These results suggest an important role of IL‐29 in VC development, at least partly, via activating the janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 signaling. Inhibition of IL‐29 or its specific receptor, IL‐28Rα, may provide a novel strategy to reduce VC in patients with vascular diseases.