bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First-principles study of moderate phonon-mediated pairing in high-pressure monoclinic phase of BiS2-based superconductors
Authors: Cheng 程 Jie 杰 , Cheng 程 Yu-Lan 玉兰 , Li 李 Bin 斌 , Liu 刘 Sheng-Li 胜利
Published: April 2023

Isotope effect on superconductive transition temperature (T
c) is an essential indicator to examine whether the mechanism of superconductors is conventional. Unconventional isotope effect of BiS2-based superconductors has been previously reported in ambient-pressure tetragonal phase. However, to comprehensively ascertain the nature of superconductivity, the investigation of BiS2-based system in high-pressure structure is highly desirable. In this work, we carried out the first-principles calculations of phonon spectra and superconductivity in high-pressure monoclinic phase of LaO0.5F0.5BiS2 with 32S and 34S, and observed that the corresponding isotope coefficient is 0.13 ≤ α ≤ 0.20. This value is much greater than that of BiS2-based superconductors in ambient-pressure phase, but slightly smaller than that of conventional MgB2. Taking into account the calculated T
c lower than experimental results, we finally conclude that the moderate phonon-mediated pairing plays a significant role in forming superconductivity of BiS2-based system in high-pressure phase, moreover, the cooperative multiple paring interactions should also be considered.
Nonmonotonic anomalous Hall effect and anisotropic magnetoresistance in SrRuO3/PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3 heterostructures
Authors: Wang 王 Zhen-Li 振礼 , Kang 康 Chao-Yang 朝阳 , Jia 贾 Cai-Hong 彩虹 , Guo 郭 Hai-Zhong 海中 , Zhang 张 Wei-Feng 伟风
Published: April 2023

We fabricate SrRuO3/PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3 heterostructures each with an in-plane tensile-strained SrRuO3 layer and investigate the effect of an applied electric field on anomalous Hall effect. The four-fold symmetry of anisotropic magnetoresistance and the nonmonotonic variation of anomalous Hall resistivity are observed. By applying positive electric field or negative electric field, the intersecting hump-like feature is suppressed or enhanced, respectively. The sign and magnitude of the anomalous Hall conductivity can be effectively controlled with an electric field under a high magnetic field. The electric-field-modulated anomalous Hall effect is associated with the magnetization rotation in SrRuO3. The experimental results are helpful in modulating the magnetization rotation in spintronic devices based on SrRuO3 heterostructures.
Pulsation Analysis of High-Amplitude δ Scuti Stars with TESS
Authors: Xue Wangjunting , Niu Jia-Shu , Xue Hui-Fang , Yin Sijing
Published: April 2023

In this work, the pulsation analysis is performed on 83 high-amplitude δ Scuti stars (HADS), which have been observed by the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite. The results show that 49 of these HADS show single-mode pulsation, 27 of them show radial double-modes pulsation (in which 22 of them pulsate with the fundamental and first overtone modes and five of them pulsate with the first and second overtone modes), and seven of them show radial triple-modes pulsation (three of which are newly confirmed triple-mode HADS). The histogram of the fundamental periods and the ratios between the fundamental and first overtone periods show bimodal structures, which might be caused by the stellar evolution in this specific phase. Most of the radial triple-mode HADS have a fundamental amplitude of 41–54 mmag, and 50% of them have similar amplitudes of the fundamental and first overtone pulsation modes. All these hints require further confirmation not only in observations with more HADS samples, but also in theoretical models with suitable treatments of stellar evolution and pulsation.
Cosmology of a Chaplygin Gas Model Under f(T) Gravity and Evolution of Primordial Perturbations
Authors: Sultana Sanjeeda , Chattopadhyay Surajit
Published: April 2023

This paper reports a detailed study of generalized Chaplygin gas (GCG) with power law form of scale factor and truncated form of the scale factor using binomial expansion in both interacting and non-interacting scenarios along with its cosmological consequences, studied in terms of equation of state (EoS) parameter. In the non-interacting scenario, the EoS parameter behaves as quintessence in both forms of the scale factor. In the interacting scenario, the EoS parameter behaves as phantom and for the truncated form of the scale factor, it violates the constraints of the positive parameter α. The cosmological implementation of GCG interacting with pressureless dark matter is investigated in the framework of f(T) modified gravity, where T is the torsion scalar in teleparallelism. The interaction term is directly proportional to the GCG density with positive coupling constant. In f(T) gravity, the EoS is behaving like phantom. The stability of the reconstructed model is investigated and it is found to be stable against small gravitational perturbations, i.e., the squared speed of sound is non-negative and an increasing function of cosmic time t. We have observed that our reconstructed f(T) model satisfies one of the sufficient conditions of a realistic reconstructed model and it is consistent with the CMB constraints and primordial nucleosynthesis. Cosmology of primordial perturbations has also been analyzed and the self-interacting potential has been found to be an increasing function of cosmic time t.
Single-pulse Emission Variation of Two Pulsars Discovered by FAST
Authors: Guo Ziping , Wen Zhigang , Yuan Jianping , Kou Feifei , Wu Qingdong , Wang Na , Zhu Weiwei , Li Di , Xue Mengyao , Wang Pei , Miao Chenchen , Zhao De , Hu Yue , Yan Wenming , Niu Jiarui , Rejep Rukiye , Huang Zhipeng
Published: April 2023

We investigate the single-pulse emission variations of two pulsars, PSRs J0211+4235 and J0553+4111, observed with the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope at the 1.25 GHz central frequency. The observation sessions span from 2020 December to 2021 July, with 21 and 22 observations for them respectively. The integrated pulse profile of PSR J0211+4235 shows that there is a weak pulse component following the main component, and PSR J0553+4111 displays a bimodal profile with a bridge component in the middle. PSR J0211+4235 presents significant nulling phenomenon with nulling duration lasting from 2 to 115 pulses and burst duration lasting from 2 to 113 pulses. The NF of each observation is determined to be 45%–55%. No emission greater than three σ is found in the mean integrated profile of all nulling pulses. In most cases, the pulse energy changes abruptly during the transition from null to burst, while in the transition from burst to null there are two trends: abrupt and gradual. We find that the nulling phenomenon of PSR J0211+4235 is periodic by the Fourier transform of the null and burst state. In addition, the single-pulse modulation characteristics of these two pulsars are investigated, and the distributions of modulation index, LRFS and 2DFS are analyzed with PSRSALSA. The left peak of PSR J0553+4111 has intensity modulation. Finally, the polarization properties of these two pulsars are obtained through polarization calibration, and their characteristics are analyzed. The possible physical mechanisms of these phenomena are discussed.
Enhancement of EEG–EMG coupling detection using corticomuscular coherence with spatial–temporal optimization
Authors: Sun Jingyao , Jia Tianyu , Li Zhibin , Li Chong , Ji Linhong
Published: April 2023

Objective. Corticomuscular coherence (CMC) is widely used to detect and quantify the coupling between motor cortex and effector muscles. It is promisingly used in human–machine interaction (HMI) supported rehabilitation training to promote the closed-loop motor control for stroke patients. However, suffering from weak coherence features and low accuracy in contingent neurofeedback, its application to HMI rehabilitation robots is currently limited. In this paper, we propose the concept of spatial–temporal CMC (STCMC), which is the coherence by refining CMC with delay compensation and spatial optimization. Approach. The proposed STCMC method measures the coherence between electroencephalogram (EEG) and electromyogram (EMG) in the multivariate spaces. Specifically, we combined delay compensation and spatial optimization to maximize the absolute value of the coherence. Then, we tested the reliability and effectiveness of STCMC on neurophysiological data of force tracking tasks. Main results. Compared with CMC, STCMC not only enhanced the coherence significantly between brain and muscle signals, but also produced higher classification accuracy. Further analysis showed that temporal and spatial parameters estimated by the STCMC reflected more detailed brain topographical patterns, which emphasized the different roles between the contralateral and ipsilateral hemisphere. Significance. This study integrates delay compensation and spatial optimization to give a new perspective for corticomuscular coupling analysis. It is also feasible to design robotic neurorehabilitation paradigms by the proposed method.
Hierarchical Collaborative Planning of County Energy Internet
Authors: Wang Junhai , Chen Lin , Yin Jianbing , Xu Hang , Zhu Chunjie , Qin Hongpei
Published: April 2023

Building a County Energy Internet (CEI) is crucial for achieving green and low-carbon transition and sustainable development of county energy systems. This paper proposes a bi-level collaborative planning method for CEI to configure devices’ capacities in multiple regional CEIs (RCEIs) and plan the interconnected networks simultaneously. Firstly, the models of multi-energy devices and networks are constructed. Then, an optimal partitioning method based on a clustering algorithm is proposed to divide the CEI into multiple RCEIs by considering the load distribution pattern and complementary characteristics. On top of that, a bi-level planning model for CEI is established, wherein the lower-level problem aims at configuring the capacities of devices in RCEIs through mixed-integer linear programming (MILP), while the upper-level problem is the determination of the interconnected multi-energy network topologies by searching the minimum spanning tree. This two-level planning problem is resolved iteratively, in which the network topologies of CEI and energy imbalance in each RCEI are shared information. Case studies on the modified CEI validate the effectiveness and practicality of the proposed method.
Effect of Cascaded Phase Change Heat Storage on the Performance of Waste Heat Recovery Systems
Authors: Wang Shuai , Pan Defa
Published: April 2023

The cascades phase change heat storage (CLTES) and trans-critical CO2 Rankine cycle were combined to study the effects of the number of phase change materials in series on heat storage on the performance of waste heat recovery systems in order to overcome the influence of heat source volatility. In terms of net work, 3-CLTES is 12.5% higher than 2-CLTES, but with 30.4% more heat exchange area. Compared with 4-CLTES, the net output work decreased by 2.6%, and the heat transfer area increased by 6.7%.
Analysis of the contact resistance of the symmetrical double side cathode solid oxide fuel cell
Authors: Zhang Man , Zheng Jun , Dong Junhao , Uezdin Anton , Kong Wei
Published: April 2023

In recent years, all research on symmetrical double side cathode solid oxide fuel cell (SDSC-SOFC) has mainly focused on electrochemical and mechanical properties. However, there is a lack of research on the contact resistance of SDSC-SOFC. The sintering model of SDSC-SOFC is established first, and then based on the sintering model, the impact of the pre-tightening force is considered. The effects of end plate thickness and pre-tightening force on contact resistance are analyzed. In order to improve the mass power density of SDSC-SOFC, an end plate thickness of 30 mm is recommended. The average contact resistance of the cathode decreases with the increase of the pre-tightening force, but the decreasing rate is reduced. When the pre-tightening force is greater than 400 N, the impact of the pre-tightening force on the average cathode contact resistance can be ignored.
Research on coupled dynamic characteristics of Floating Wind Turbine under complex environment
Authors: An Qi , Jiang Hai Rui
Published: April 2023

The fully coupled aerodynamic-hydrodynamic-mooring numerical model of floating offshore wind turbine(FOWT) has been established. The complex conditions such as second-order wave force, full-field turbulent wind, and mooring break have been taking into account. Using OrcaFlex and FAST to calculate the dynamic response of FOWT under the combined action of wind, wave and current. The time-domain response of floating foundation, mooring tension, blade root contact force, aerodynamic power, and wind rotor thrust are obtained. And the effect of the turbulent wind and mooring break at different positions on the FOWT are studied. The results show that compared with the platform motion and mooring tension, the aerodynamic power and rotor thrust are more sensitive to the turbulent wind, and there are fluctuations in amplitude and multiple peaks in the frequency spectrum. Compared with the leeward side, the mooring break on the windward side is a more dangerous situation, and it is easy to cause the collapse of platform and the break of the remaining mooring. The mooring break on the leeward side is relatively safe, and it will produce a drift in the sway direction, and have little impact on the safety of the wind turbine.
A mechatronic leg replica to benchmark human–exoskeleton physical interactions
Authors: Dežman Miha , Massardi Stefano , Pinto-Fernandez David , Grosu Victor , Rodriguez-Guerrero Carlos , Babič Jan , Torricelli Diego
Published: April 2023

Evaluating human–exoskeleton interaction typically requires experiments with human subjects, which raises safety issues and entails time-consuming testing procedures. This paper presents a mechatronic replica of a human leg, which was designed to quantify physical interaction dynamics between exoskeletons and human limbs without the need for human testing. In the first part of this work, we present the mechanical, electronic, sensory system and software solutions integrated in our leg replica prototype. In the second part, we used the leg replica to test its interaction with two types of commercially available wearable devices, i.e. an active full leg exoskeleton and a passive knee orthosis. We ran basic test examples to demonstrate the functioning and benchmarking potential of the leg replica to assess the effects of joint misalignments on force transmission. The integrated force sensors embedded in the leg replica detected higher interaction forces in the misaligned scenario in comparison to the aligned one, in both active and passive modalities. The small standard deviation of force measurements across cycles demonstrates the potential of the leg replica as a standard test method for reproducible studies of human-exoskeleton physical interaction.
Quantum Stirling engine based on dinuclear metal complexes
Authors: Cruz Clebson , Rastegar-Sedehi Hamid-Reza , Anka Maron F , de Oliveira Thiago R , Reis Mario
Published: April 2023

Low-dimensional metal complexes are versatile materials with tunable physical and chemical properties that make these systems promising platforms for caloric applications. In this context, this work proposes a quantum Stirling cycle based on a dinuclear metal complex as a working substance. The results show that the quantum cycle operational modes can be managed when considering the change in the magnetic coupling of the material and the temperature of the reservoirs. Moreover, magnetic susceptibility can be used to characterize the heat exchanges of each cycle step and, therefore, its performance. As a proof of concept, the efficiency of the heat engine is obtained from experimental susceptibility data. These results open doors for studying quantum thermodynamic cycles by using metal complexes; and further the development of emerging quantum technologies based on these advanced materials.
In-materio reservoir computing based on nanowire networks: fundamental, progress, and perspective
Authors: Fang Renrui , Zhang Woyu , Ren Kuan , Zhang Peiwen , Xu Xiaoxin , Wang Zhongrui , Shang Dashan
Published: April 2023

The reservoir computing (RC) system, known for its ability to seamlessly integrate memory and computing functions, is considered as a promising solution to meet the high demands for time and energy-efficient computing in the current big data landscape, compared with traditional silicon-based computing systems that have a noticeable disadvantage of separate storage and computation. This review focuses on in-materio RC based on nanowire networks (NWs) from the perspective of materials, extending to reservoir devices and applications. The common methods used in preparing nanowires-based reservoirs, including the synthesis of nanowires and the construction of networks, are firstly systematically summarized. The physical principles of memristive and memcapacitive junctions are then explained. Afterwards, the dynamic characteristics of nanowires-based reservoirs and their computing capability, as well as the neuromorphic applications of NWs-based RC systems in recognition, classification, and forecasting tasks, are explicated in detail. Lastly, the current challenges and future opportunities facing NWs-based RC are highlighted, aiming to provide guidance for further research.
Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease Following COVID-19 Vaccination: Experience at a Population-Based Referral Center
Authors: Craig Jeffrey W , Farinha Pedro , Jiang Aixiang , Lytle Andrew , Skinnider Brian , Slack Graham W
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Multiple case reports describe Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) following COVID-19 vaccination, but the true nature of this phenomenon is unknown. The purpose of this study was to further assess the relationship between KFD and COVID-19 vaccination at the population level.

Methods

Confirmed KFD cases from January 2018 to April 2022 were identified from provincial pathology archives and analyzed in the context of vaccination statistics from public health resources.

Results

Our statistical models provide evidence of a temporal association between KFD and both antecedent COVID-19 vaccine administration as well as age-stratified vaccination rates. Eight new cases of plausible COVID-19 vaccine-associated KFD are presented, collectively exhibiting clinical and pathologic features that overlap substantially with those of idiopathic KFD.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that KFD is observed in association with COVID-19 vaccination and suggest that mechanistic studies are warranted.
CanIsoNet: a database to study the functional impact of isoform switching events in diseases
Authors: Karakulak Tülay , Szklarczyk Damian , Saylan Cemil Can , Moch Holger , von Mering Christian , Kahraman Abdullah
Published: April 2023

Motivation

Alternative splicing, as an essential regulatory mechanism in normal mammalian cells, is frequently disturbed in cancer and other diseases. Switches in the expression of most dominant alternative isoforms can alter protein interaction networks of associated genes giving rise to disease and disease progression. Here, we present CanIsoNet, a database to view, browse and search isoform switching events in diseases. CanIsoNet is the first webserver that incorporates isoform expression data with STRING interaction networks and ClinVar annotations to predict the pathogenic impact of isoform switching events in various diseases.

Results

Data in CanIsoNet can be browsed by disease or searched by genes or isoforms in annotation-rich data tables. Various annotations for 11 811 isoforms and 14 357 unique isoform switching events across 31 different disease types are available. The network density score for each disease-specific isoform, PFAM domain IDs of disrupted interactions, domain structure visualization of transcripts and expression data of switched isoforms for each sample is given. Additionally, the genes annotated in ClinVar are highlighted in interactive interaction networks.

Availability and implementation

CanIsoNet is freely available at https://www.caniso.net. The source codes can be found under a Creative Common License at https://github.com/kahramanlab/CanIsoNet_Web.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics Advances online.
Primerdiffer: a python command-line module for large-scale primer design in haplotype genotyping
Authors: Ren Xiaoliang , Shao Yanwen , Zhang Yiwen , Ni Ying , Bi Yu , Li Runsheng
Published: April 2023

Motivation

Primer design is a routine practice for modern molecular biology labs. Bioinformatics tools like primer3 and primer-blast have standardized the primer design for a specific region. However, large-scale primer design, especially for genome-wide screening, is still a labor-intensive job for most wet-lab researchers using these pipelines.

Results

Here, we present the primerdiffer pipeline, which can be used to batch design primers that differentiate haplotypes on a large scale with precise false priming checking. This command-line interface (CLI) pipeline includes greedy primer search, local and global in silico PCR-based false priming checking, and automated best primer selection. The local CLI application provides flexibility to design primers with the user’s own genome sequences and specific parameters. Some species-specific primers designed to genotype the hybrid introgression strains from Caenorhabditis briggsae and Caenorhabditis nigoni have been validated using single-worm PCR. This pipeline provides the first CLI-based large-scale primer design tool to differentiate haplotypes in any targeted region.

Availability and implementation

The open-source python modules are available at github (https://github.com/runsheng/primerdiffer, https://github.com/runsheng/primervcf) and Python package index (https://pypi.org/project/primerdiffer/, https://pypi.org/project/primervcf/).
Ichthyotic skin phenotype induced by the chronic activation of Toll-like receptor 2, and autoinflammation
Authors: Takeichi Takuya , Muro Yoshinao , Akiyama Masashi 
Published: April 2023

We read with great interest ‘Chronic activation of Toll-like receptor 2 induces an ichthyotic skin phenotype’ by Tagoe et al.1 Their findings expand our recent understanding of how certain kinds of autoinflammation contribute to the pathogenesis of ichthyosis. Inspired by the report by Tagoe et al., we suggest that their unique autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis in vitro models have several characteristics in common with autoinflammatory keratinization diseases.
Weaknesses of MMT as a guide to development policy
Authors: Aboobaker Adam , Ugurlu Esra Nur
Published: April 2023

This paper addresses the limitations of Modern Money Theory (MMT) as a guide to development policy. We explore two main questions on this topic: whether policies championed by MMT advocates (i) ought to be implemented in low- and middle-income economies and (ii) can be implemented. In relation to the first question, we argue that the MMT literature mischaracterises the essence of the development challenge for low- and middle-income economies. Our argument is that the chief long-run growth challenge faced by developing countries concerns structural transformation rather than general aggregate demand insufficiency. We use several formal representations of the consumption–investment trade-off in growth theory, found in the Harrod–Domar growth model, the Feldman–Mahalanobis model and Kalecki’s 1963 growth model to illustrate this point. Concerning the second question, we argue that even if MMT had the correct diagnosis of the principal growth challenge faced by developing countries, its chief policy recommendations would likely be counter-productive if implemented outside of select advanced economies. We draw from the international economics literature on currency hierarchy and exchange rate volatility to illustrate this point.
A mitochondrial cytopathy presenting with persistent troponin elevation: case report
Authors: Krishnan Anish , Wu Kathy , Girgis Laila , Pamphlett Roger , Tomlinson Susan , Muthiah Kavitha
Published: April 2023

Background

Mitochondrial diseases represent an important potential cause of cardiomyopathy and should be considered in patients presenting with multisystem manifestations. Timely diagnosis of a mitochondrial disorder is needed as it can have reproductive implications for the offspring of the proband.

Case Summary

We describe a case of undifferentiated rising and persistent troponin elevation in a 70-year-old female with only mild heart failure symptoms and signs. An eventual diagnosis of a mitochondrial cytopathy was made after genetic testing, striated muscle, and endomyocardial biopsy. Multidisciplinary involvement was vital in securing the ultimate diagnosis and is a key lesson from this case. On follow up, with institution of heart failure therapy including cardiac resynchronisation device therapy there was improvement in exercise tolerance and symptoms.

Discussion

For discussion is the investigation of undifferentiated cardiomyopathies and consideration of mitochondrial disorders as an important diagnosis to exclude prior to diagnosis as an idiopathic cardiomyopathy.
Postoperative changes in a bronchial stump following covering with free fat tissue in a rat model
Authors: Yoshimine Sota , Tanaka Toshiki , Murakami Junichi , Yamamoto Naohiro , Ueno Koji , Kurazumi Hiroshi , Ikeda Eiji , Hamano Kimikazu
Published: April 2023

OBJECTIVES

Covering the bronchial stump with free fat tissue has been used as minimally invasive prophylaxis against bronchial stump fistulas; however, postoperative changes in the bronchial stump have not been well validated. Our goal was to examine changes in the bronchial stump in response to covering with free fat tissue in a rat model.

METHODS

A left pneumonectomy was performed on 16 Wistar/ST rats, 12 of which had a bronchial stump covered with free subcutaneous fat tissue. Four rats that underwent a left pneumonectomy alone were sacrificed on postoperative day 7, and the 12 rats whose bronchial stumps were additionally covered with fat tissue were sacrificed on postoperative days 7, 14 and 56. Macroscopic and histological changes and pressure resistance of the bronchial stumps due to coverage with free fat tissue were examined.

RESULTS

None of the rats showed macroscopic infection or necrosis in the thoracic cavity at the time of the rethoracotomy. The normal bronchial stumps remained mostly exposed, whereas the bronchial stumps covered with fat tissue were well-coated with tissue mass. Histologically, fibrous connective tissue containing microvessels gradually formed around the bronchial stump covered with fat tissue, and some of the tissue masses still had normal fat structures 56 days postoperatively. Covering with fat tissue significantly increased the pressure resistance of the bronchial stump 7 days postoperatively and further increased with time.

CONCLUSIONS

Covering the bronchial stump with free fat tissue formed fibrous connective tissue around the bronchial stump and reinforced its closure.
Critical literacy supplementary materials in high school EFL
Authors: Jung Hyeyoung
Published: April 2023

Building on the concept of Freirean culture circles, this study reports on the development of supplementary materials to incorporate critical literacy into high school EFL textbooks. Collaborating with two experienced high school EFL teachers in South Korea, critical supplementary materials were developed to compensate for the speaking sections of Korean high school EFL textbooks. Teacher interviews, classroom interactions, and students’ surveys revealed five key elements of critical materials that were necessary for students’ critical engagement, namely: framing, safer topics, critical questions, critical vocabulary, and writing before speaking. This study shows that critical materials enable teachers’ critical literacy teaching practices, helping teachers deal with the dilemma between what is feasible and the principles of critical literacy. With classroom-based examples and discussions, this article offers insights to ELT teachers, materials developers, and teacher educators who strive to promote critical literacy in skill-based ELT classrooms.
Illicit purchasing and use of flavour accessories after the European Union menthol cigarette ban: findings from the 2020–21 ITC Netherlands Surveys
Authors: Kyriakos Christina N , Driezen Pete , Fong Geoffrey T , Chung-Hall Janet , Hyland Andrew , Geboers Cloé , Craig Lorraine V , Willemsen Marc C , Filippidis Filippos T
Published: April 2023

Background

The 2020 European Union (EU) menthol cigarette ban increased quitting among pre-ban menthol smokers in the Netherlands, but some reported continuing to smoke menthol cigarettes. This study examined three possible explanations for post-ban menthol use—(i) illicit purchasing, (ii) use of flavour accessories and (iii) use of non-menthol replacement brands marketed for menthol smokers.

Methods

Data were from the ITC Netherlands Cohort Surveys among adult smokers before the menthol ban (Wave 1: February–March 2020, N = 2067) and after the ban (Wave 2: September–November 2020, N = 1752; Wave 3: June–July 2021, N = 1721). Bivariate, logistic regression and generalized estimating equation model analyses were conducted on weighted data.

Results

Illicit purchasing remained low from pre-ban (2.4%, 95% CI: 1.8–3.2, Wave 1) to post-ban (1.7%, 1.2–2.5%, Wave 3), with no difference between menthol and non-menthol smokers from Wave 1 to Wave 3. About 4.4% of post-ban menthol smokers last purchased their usual brand outside of the EU and 3.6% from the internet; 42.5% of post-ban menthol smokers and 4.4% of smokers overall reported using flavour accessories, with greater odds among those aged 25–39 years vs. 55+ (aOR = 3.16, P = 0.002). Approximately 70% of post-ban smokers who reported using a menthol brand were actually using a non-menthol replacement brand.

Conclusions

There was no increase in illicit purchasing or of smuggling outside the EU among menthol and non-menthol smokers in the Netherlands 1 year after the EU menthol cigarette ban. Use of flavour accessories and non-menthol replacement brands best explain post-ban menthol use, suggesting the need to ban accessories and ensure industry compliance.
International differences in gradients in early childhood overweight and obesity: the role of maternal employment and formal childcare attendance
Authors: Panico Lidia , Boinet Cesarine , Akabayashi Hideo , de la Rie Sanneke , Kwon Sarah Jiyoon , Kameyama Yuriko , Keizer Renske , Nozaki Kayo , Perinetti Casoni Valentina , Volodina Anna , Waldfogel Jane , Weinert Sabine , Washbrook Elizabeth
Published: April 2023

Background

There are significant cross-country differences in socio-economic gradients in later childhood and adulthood overweight/obesity; few studies assess whether this cross-national variation is evident from early childhood. Furthermore, the role of childcare in explaining overweight/obesity gradients might vary across countries, given differences in access, quality and heterogeneity within. Additionally, childcare is linked to parental characteristics such as maternal employment. The interplay between childcare and employment in producing early overweight/obesity gradients has received little attention, and might vary cross-nationally.

Methods

Using harmonized data from six high-quality, large datasets, we explore the variation in gradients in early overweight/obesity (at age 3–4 years old) by parental education across several high-income countries (USA, UK, France, the Netherlands, Germany and Japan). We then assess whether differential formal group care use attenuates some of these gradients, and whether this varies across maternal employment.

Results

Gradients in early childhood overweight/obesity by parental education are evident across several developed countries. Countries with higher overall prevalence of early overweight/obesity did not have the largest inequalities across education groups. The contribution of formal group care to producing these gradients varied across countries and across maternal employment status.

Conclusion

Early childhood inequalities in overweight/obesity are pervasive across developed countries, as noted for older children and adults. However, mechanisms producing these gradients vary across national contexts. Our study shows that, given the right context, quality childcare and maternal employment can successfully support healthy weight trajectories and not contribute (or even reduce) social inequalities in early overweight/obesity.
The unknown silent drug reaction in acne patients: rare case of isotretinoin-induced haematuria
Authors: Kapetanovic Igor , Zivanovic Dubravka , Mijuskovic Margita , Minic Snezana
Published: April 2023

Background

Acne vulgaris is one of the most frequent visits to primary care physicians and dermatologists alike. Isotretinoin is the backbone of acne treatment. In most countries, depending on the health care system, isotretinoin is prescribed by dermatologists but primary care physicians are a part of the follow-up and interpreting analysis. Adverse effects of isotretinoin on the kidney and urinary system are mostly limited to sparse case reports. Specifically, gross and microscopic haematuria is not mentioned to be associated with isotretinoin. Lack of data regarding these adverse effects can lead to doubt regarding further patient management not only with dermatologists but also primary care physicians.

Objective

We report a 16-year-old male patient with isotretinoin-induced haematuria with multiple episodes and subsequent challenge and de-challenge. No personal or familial history of nephrological disease was present. Ultrasound imaging and nephrology workup was within normal limits. Other aetiologies were excluded. Nephrology consult stated there was no contraindication for isotretinoin use and was reinstated at 0.6 m/kg/day. More frequent observation was indicated until completion of isotretinoin.

Conclusion

Our case raises awareness to other dermatologists and primary care physicians that haematuria can be secondary to isotretinoin but not a contraindication for further use if asymptomatic and microscopic. More extensive evaluation and monitoring should be done if the patient is symptomatic with other abnormalities and symptoms. Urinalysis should be a part of routine follow-up monitoring in patients on isotretinoin. Furthermore, delineating and differentiating when to refer to a nephrologist is essential for physicians, patients, and the health care system overall.
Specific Distribution of Digital Gait Biomarkers in Parkinson’s Disease Using Body-Worn Sensors and Machine Learning
Authors: Cai Guoen , Shi Weikun , Wang Yingqing , Weng Huidan , Chen Lina , Yu Jiao , Chen Zhonglue , Lin Fabin , Ren Kang , Zeng Yuqi , Liu Jun , Ling Yun , Ye Qinyong
Published: April 2023

Gait impairment leads to reduced social activities and low quality of life in people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). PD is associated with unique gait signs and distributions of gait features. The assessment of gait characteristics is crucial in the diagnosis and treatment of PD. At present, the number and distribution of gait features associated with different PD stages are not clear. Here, we used whole-body multinode wearable devices combined with machine learning to build a classification model of early PD (EPD) and mild PD (MPD). Our model exhibited significantly improved accuracy for the EPD and MPD groups compared with the healthy control (HC) group (EPD vs HC accuracy = 0.88, kappa = 0.75, AUC = 0.88; MPD vs HC accuracy = 0.94, kappa = 0.84, AUC = 0.90). Furthermore, the distribution of gait features was distinguishable among the HC, EPD, and MPD groups (EPD based on variability features [40%]; MPD based on amplitude features [30%]). Here, we showed promising gait models for PD classification and provided reliable gait features for distinguishing different PD stages. Further multicenter clinical studies are needed to generalize the findings.
Dietary Supplementation With NAD+-Boosting Compounds in Humans: Current Knowledge and Future Directions
Authors: Freeberg Kaitlin A , Udovich CeAnn C , Martens Christopher R , Seals Douglas R , Craighead Daniel H
Published: April 2023

Advancing age and many disease states are associated with declines in nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels. Preclinical studies suggest that boosting NAD+ abundance with precursor compounds, such as nicotinamide riboside or nicotinamide mononucleotide, has profound effects on physiological function in models of aging and disease. Translation of these compounds for oral supplementation in humans has been increasingly studied within the last 10 years; however, the clinical evidence that raising NAD+ concentrations can improve physiological function is unclear. The goal of this review was to synthesize the published literature on the effects of chronic oral supplementation with NAD+ precursors on healthy aging and age-related chronic diseases. We identified nicotinamide riboside, nicotinamide riboside co-administered with pterostilbene, and nicotinamide mononucleotide as the most common candidates in investigations of NAD+-boosting compounds for improving physiological function in humans. Studies have been performed in generally healthy midlife and older adults, adults with cardiometabolic disease risk factors such as overweight and obesity, and numerous patient populations. Supplementation with these compounds is safe, tolerable, and can increase the abundance of NAD+ and related metabolites in multiple tissues. Dosing regimens and study durations vary greatly across interventions, and small sample sizes limit data interpretation of physiological outcomes. Limitations are identified and future research directions are suggested to further our understanding of the potential efficacy of NAD+-boosting compounds for improving physiological function and extending human health span.
Support for Older Parents in Need in Europe: The Role of the Social Network and of Individual and Relational Characteristics
Authors: Cohen Liora , Shiovitz-Ezra Sharon , Erlich Bracha
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives

Adult children form the backbone of informal care for older parents. To date, limited attention has been paid to the complex mechanism of providing support to older parents. The present study investigated mezzo- and micro-level correlates of provision of support to older parents. The focus was on the child–parent relationship in childhood and in the present.

Research Design and Methods

Data were derived from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). The analytic sample comprised respondents who participated in SHARE Waves 6–8 and reported having an unhealthy mother (N = 1,554) or father (N = 478). We used hierarchical logistic regression to address 3 models including individual resources, child–parent characteristics, and social resources. We conducted separate analyses for mothers and fathers.

Results

Providing support to a parent depended primarily on personal resources followed by the quality of the relationship with the parent. A larger social network of the care provider was also related to increased likelihood of providing support. Support to a mother was associated with positive evaluations of the relationship with her in the present and in childhood. At the same time, negative evaluations of the relationship with the father in childhood were negatively related to providing support to him.

Discussion and Implications

The findings point to a multidimensional mechanism, in which adult children’s resources are a prominent factor in shaping caregiving behaviors toward their parents. Clinical efforts should focus on adult children’s social resources and the quality of the child–parent relationship.
Behavioral Activation: Values-Aligned Activity Engagement as a Transdiagnostic Intervention for Common Geriatric Conditions
Authors: Kennedy Meaghan A , Stevens Courtney J , Pepin Renée , Lyons Kathleen D
Published: April 2023

Scalable, transdiagnostic interventions are needed to meet the needs of a growing population of older adults experiencing multimorbidity and functional decline. Behavioral activation (BA) is a pragmatic, empirically supported treatment for depression that focuses on increasing engagement in values-aligned activities. We propose BA is an ideal transdiagnostic intervention approach for older adults because it (a) specifically targets activity restriction, a shared characteristic of common conditions of aging; and (b) has strong potential for scalability through delivery by a broad range of clinician and nonclinician interventionists and via telehealth. We describe the history of BA and review recent literature demonstrating impacts beyond depression including on cognition, social isolation, and disability. We also describe the feasibility of delivering BA across interventionists, settings, and modalities. Our approach advances scholarship by proposing BA as a scalable, transdiagnostic behavioral intervention to address functional decline in older adults with common geriatric conditions.
Mental health outcomes in health care providers during the COVID-19 pandemic: an umbrella review
Authors: Majid Umair , Hussain Syed Ahmed Shahzaeem , Zahid Anas , Haider Muhammad Hasnain , Arora Ritika
Published: April 2023

As we head into the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an increasing need to consider the long-term mental health outcomes of health care workers (HCWs) who have experienced overwhelming work pressure, economic and social deprivation, burnout, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This scoping umbrella review summarizes the mental health outcomes of published evidence syntheses on HCWs worldwide. We analyzed 39 evidence syntheses representing the findings from 1297 primary studies. We found several persistent fears and concerns (job-related fears, fear of stigmatization, worries about the pandemic, and infection-related fears) that shaped HCW experiences in delivering health care. We also describe several risk factors (job-related, social factors, poor physical and mental health, and inadequate coping strategies) and protective factors (individual and external factors). This is the first scoping umbrella review comprehensively documenting the various risk and protective factors that HCWs have faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. HCWs continue to fear the risk that they may infect their family and friends since they regularly interact with COVID-19 patients. This places HCWs in a precarious situation requiring them to balance risk to their family and friends and potential social deprivation from isolation.
The 2016 UN General Assembly Declaration on the Right to Peace: A Step towards Sustainable Positive Peace within Societies?
Authors: Turan Tuba
Published: April 2023

In 2016, the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration on the Right to Peace. This article examines whether the implementation of the Declaration can likely lead to the realization of the right to peace in a way that elicits sustainable peace within societies. Thus, diverging from earlier studies, it provides conceptual and practical critiques of the Declaration to evaluate the viability of the right. First, following an in-depth analysis of the Declaration, this article draws on peace and conflict studies to explain what sustainable intra-state peace entails. Second, it establishes that the liberal and positive elements of peace and the frameworks prescribed in the Declaration are inadequate to address horizontal inequalities across all relevant identity groups qua groups, which is required to elicit sustainable peace. Third, it proposes guiding principles to direct implementing institutions, particularly UN bodies and frameworks, towards diagnosing and tackling inequalities across collectivities, thereby complementing the prevailing individualistic human rights approach.
Thrift, Morality, and Migration in the Barbados Savings Bank
Authors: Flores-Villalobos Joan
Published: April 2023

There has been little historiographical attention to working-class banking in the Caribbean. This article adds to the scholarship by considering the founding and use of the Barbados Savings Bank by working-class Black Barbadians. Colonial administrators hoped the bank would teach formerly enslaved Barbadians how to properly transition into the free wage labor force and sought to encourage household arrangements dependent on a male breadwinner who would use the bank for long-term savings. Using the new depositor ledgers of the Barbados Savings Bank, I argue that everyday Barbadians instead used this financial institution as a family repository of targeted savings for the purpose of emigration, defying colonial desires of a dependent workforce organized in patriarchal single-income households.
Association between vasoactive–inotropic score, morbidity and mortality after heart transplantation
Authors: Tohme Joanna , Lescroart Mickael , Guillemin Jérémie , Orer Pascal , Dureau Pauline , Varnous Shaida , Leprince Pascal , Coutance Guillaume , Bouglé Adrien
Published: April 2023

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between vasoactive–inotropic score (VIS), calculated in the 24 h after heart transplantation, and post-transplant mortality and morbidity.

METHODS

This was an observational single-centre retrospective study. Patients admitted to surgical intensive care unit after transplantation, between January 2015 and December 2018, were reviewed consecutively. VISmax was calculated as dopamine+ dobutamine+ 100 × epinephrine + 100 × norepinephrine + 50 × levosimendan + 10 × milrinone (all in µg/kg/min) + 10 000 × vasopressin (units/kg/min), using the maximum dosing rates of vasoactive and inotropic medications in the 24 h after intensive care unit admission. The primary outcome was mortality at 1 year post-transplant. The secondary outcomes included length of stay, duration of mechanical ventilation and inotropic support and the occurrence of septic shock, ventilator-associated pneumonia, bloodstream infection or renal replacement therapy.

RESULTS

A total of 151 patients underwent heart transplantation and admitted to intensive care unit. The median VISmax was 39.2 (interquartile range = 19.4–83.0). VISmax was independently associated with 1-year post-transplant mortality, as well as recipient age [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.004, P-value = 0.013], recipient gender (female to male: hazard ratio = 2.23, P-value = 0.047) and combined transplantation (hazard ratio = 2.85, P-value = 0.048). There was a significant association between VISmax and duration of mechanical ventilation (P-value < 0.001), length of stay (P-value = 0.002), duration of infused inotropes (P-value < 0.001), occurrence of bloodstream infections, septic shocks, ventilation-acquired pneumonia and renal replacement therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

VISmax calculated during the first 24 h after postoperative intensive care unit admission in transplanted patients is independently associated with 1-year mortality. In addition, length of stay, duration of mechanical ventilation and infused inotropes increased with increasing VISmax.