bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neonatal sequential organ failure assessment score within 72 h after delivery reliably predicts bronchopulmonary dysplasia in very preterm infants
Authors: Xu Doudou , Dong Ziwei , Yin Xiaoli , Yang Yuanyuan , Wang Yang
Published: September 2023

Background

The neonatal sequential organ failure assessment (nSOFA) score is an operational definition of organ dysfunction employed to predict sepsis-associated mortality. However, the relationship between the nSOFA score and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) has not been investigated clearly. This study evaluates whether the nSOFA score within 72 h after delivery could be used to predict the occurrence of BPD in very preterm infants.

Methods

In this retrospective, single-center cohort study, preterm infants born between 2019 and 2021 were investigated, the nSOFA score was calculated from medical records after admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) within 72 h after delivery, and the peak value was used for calculation. A logistic regression model was used to evaluate the relationship between the nSOFA score and BPD. Propensity score matching and subgroup analysis were performed to verify the reliability of the results.

Results

Of 238 infants meeting the inclusion criteria, 93 infants (39.1%) were diagnosed with BPD. The receiver operating characteristic curve of the nSOFA score in predicting BPD was 0.790 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.731–0.849]. The logistic regression model showed that an increment of one in the nSOFA score was related to a 2.09-fold increase in the odds of BPD (95% CI: 1.57–2.76) and 6.36-fold increase when the nSOFA score was higher than 1.5 (95% CI: 2.73–14.79).

Conclusions

The nSOFA score within 72 h after delivery is independently related to BPD and can be used to identify high-risk infants and implement early interventions.
Unveiling the therapeutic potential of exogenous β-hydroxybutyrate for chronic colitis in rats: novel insights on autophagy, apoptosis, and pyroptosis
Authors: Abdelhady Rasha , Saber Sameh , Ahmed Abdel-Reheim Mustafa , Mohammad S. Alamri Mohannad , Alfaifi Jaber , I. E. Adam Masoud , A. Saleh Lobna , I. Farag Azza , A. Elmorsy Elsayed , S. El-Wakeel Hend , S. Doghish Ahmed , E. Shaker Mohamed , H. Hazem Sara , A. Ramadan Heba , S. Hamad Rabab , A. Mohammed Osama
Published: September 2023

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic relapsing inflammatory disease of the colorectal area that demonstrates a dramatically increasing incidence worldwide. This study provides novel insights into the capacity of the exogenous β-hydroxybutyrate and ketogenic diet (KD) consumption to alleviate dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced UC in rats. Remarkably, both interventions attenuated disease activity and colon weight-to-length ratio, and improved macro and microstructures of the damaged colon. Importantly, both β-hydroxybutyrate and KD curbed the DSS-induced aberrant NLRP3 inflammasome activation as observed in mRNA and protein expression analysis. Additionally, inhibition of the NLRP3/NGSDMD-mediated pyroptosis was detected in response to both regimens. In parallel, these modalities attenuated caspase-1 and its associated consequences of IL-1β and IL-18 overproduction. They also mitigated apoptosis as indicated by the inactivation of caspase-3. The anti-inflammatory effects of BHB and KD were confirmed by the reported decline in the levels of inflammatory markers including MPO, NFκB, IL-6, and TNF-α. Moreover, these interventions exhibited antioxidative properties by reducing ROS production and improving antioxidative enzymes. Their effectiveness in mitigating UC was also evident in the renovation of normal intestinal epithelial barrier function, as shown by correcting the discrepancies in the levels of tight junction proteins ZO-1, OCLN, and CLDN5. Furthermore, their effects on the intestinal microbiota homeostasis were investigated. In terms of autophagy, exogenous β-hydroxybutyrate upregulated BECN-1 and downregulated p62, which may account for its superiority over KD in attenuating colonic damage. In conclusion, this study provides experimental evidence supporting the potential therapeutic use of β-hydroxybutyrate or β-hydroxybutyrate-boosting regimens in UC.
Failures of the classical optical theorem under arbitrary-shaped beam incidence in electromagnetism, acoustics, and quantum mechanics: motivation and a review
Authors: Gouesbet Gérard , Marston Philip L.
Published: September 2023

The classical optical theorem states that for a wave propagating in a lossless medium and incident on a finite scatterer, the extinction cross section is proportional to the real part of the scattering amplitude in the forward direction. When developing a light scattering theory known as the generalized Lorenz–Mie theory, it has been a surprise to observe that in 1982, the optical theorem failed when the scatterer was illuminated by an arbitrary-shaped beam. The extremely simple reason for that failure has been understood only in 2014 and published in 2016. This represents a more than three-decade-long story, which is called a “wow” story for reasons that will be mentioned in this paper. The opportunity of this story which pertains to both the history and philosophy of sciences is considered to provide a review of the optical theorem under arbitrary-shaped beam incidence in electromagnetism, acoustics, and quantum mechanics.
Advanced backcross QTL analysis and comparative mapping with RIL QTL studies and GWAS provide an overview of QTL and marker haplotype diversity for resistance to Aphanomyces root rot in pea (Pisum sativum)
Authors: Leprévost Théo , Boutet Gilles , Lesné Angélique , Rivière Jean-Philippe , Vetel Pierrick , Glory Isabelle , Miteul Henri , Le Rat Anaïs , Dufour Philippe , Regnault-Kraut Catherine , Sugio Akiko , Lavaud Clément , Pilet-Nayel Marie-Laure
Published: September 2023

Aphanomyces euteiches is the most damaging soilborne pea pathogen in France. Breeding of pea resistant varieties combining a diversity of quantitative trait loci (QTL) is a promising strategy considering previous research achievements in dissecting polygenic resistance to A. euteiches. The objective of this study was to provide an overview of the diversity of QTL and marker haplotypes for resistance to A. euteiches, by integrating a novel QTL mapping study in advanced backcross (AB) populations with previous QTL analyses and genome-wide association study (GWAS) using common markers. QTL analysis was performed in two AB populations derived from the cross between the susceptible spring pea variety “Eden” and the two new sources of partial resistance “E11” and “LISA”. The two AB populations were genotyped using 993 and 478 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers, respectively, and phenotyped for resistance to A. euteiches in controlled conditions and in infested fields at two locations. GWAS and QTL mapping previously reported in the pea-Aphanomyces collection and from four recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations, respectively, were updated using a total of 1,850 additional markers, including the markers used in the Eden x E11 and Eden x LISA populations analysis. A total of 29 resistance-associated SNPs and 171 resistance QTL were identified by GWAS and RIL or AB QTL analyses, respectively, which highlighted 10 consistent genetic regions confirming the previously reported QTL. No new consistent resistance QTL was detected from both Eden x E11 and Eden x LISA AB populations. However, a high diversity of resistance haplotypes was identified at 11 linkage disequilibrium (LD) blocks underlying consistent genetic regions, especially in 14 new sources of resistance from the pea-Aphanomyces collection. An accumulation of favorable haplotypes at these 11 blocks was confirmed in the most resistant pea lines of the collection. This study provides new SNP markers and rare haplotypes associated with the diversity of Aphanomyces root rot resistance QTL investigated, which will be useful for QTL pyramiding strategies to increase resistance levels in future pea varieties.
Whether and how will using social media induce social anxiety? The correlational and causal evidence from Chinese society
Authors: Yang Feng , Li Minyan , Han Yang
Published: September 2023

Background

Prior literature has well established the relationship between social media use and social anxiety, but little attention has been paid to the underlying mechanisms. Additionally, the causal evidence concerning the effect of social media use on social anxiety is scarce.

Objective

Given that, two studies were conducted to examine the effect of social media use on social anxiety and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods and results

In Study 1, with 470 undergraduates as participants, we applied the questionnaire survey to investigate the relationship between social media use and social anxiety. The results showed that higher social media use intensity was significantly related to higher social anxiety, and social media use was related to social anxiety via two possible mediation paths: (1) social media use → upward social comparison → social anxiety, (2) and social media use → upward social comparison → self-esteem → social anxiety. In Study 2, with 180 undergraduates as participants, we conducted a lab experiment, in which participants were assigned to the experimental (exposed to the content that undergraduates frequently access on social media) or control (exposed to landscape documentaries) condition, and then measured their upward social comparison, self-esteem and social anxiety. The results showed that participants in the experimental condition reported higher social anxiety than those in the control condition, demonstrating the causality between social media exposure and social anxiety. The subsequent mediation analysis basically replicated the findings of Study 1. That is, upward social comparison played the mediating role between social media exposure and social anxiety, and upward social comparison and self-esteem played the chain-mediating role between them.

Conclusion

The current research firstly demonstrated the causality between social media use and social anxiety in Chinese society, and also revealed the mediating mechanisms between them, which would deepen our understanding of how social media use will increase social anxiety.
Turnover intention and coping strategies among older nursing assistants in China: a qualitative study
Authors: Tan Yuting , Zhao Qian , Yang Huafeng , Song Shufen , Xie Xiaohua , Yu Zhiying
Published: September 2023

Introduction

With the increasing aging population, older nursing assistants have made significant contributions to institutional eldercare. However, there is a high turnover rate among these workers, and it is crucial to address this issue and find ways to stabilize the workforce. This study aimed to explore the factors influencing turnover intention and coping strategies among older nursing assistants, in order to provide targeted assistance and guidance to reduce their intention to resign and ultimately lower the turnover rate.

Methods

Qualitative research methods were employed to conduct semi-structured interviews with older nursing assistants in Changsha. The data obtained from these interviews were then analyzed using a phenomenological analysis approach and NVIVO (QSR International, Doncaster, Australia) software version 11.0.

Results

It is found that several factors influence turnover intention among older nursing assistants. Which include work pay, work environment, professional identity, external motivation, and work pressure. Additionally, the coping strategies employed by these individuals in relation to their intention to resign include self-regulation, seeking support, self-improvement, and exploring motivation.

Discussion

It is also evident from our study that reducing the turnover intention of older nursing assistants requires a collaborative effort from older adult care institutions, functional departments, and eldercare nursing assistants themselves. By addressing the factors influencing turnover intention and providing support and resources for coping strategies, we can work towards stabilizing the workforce and improving institutional eldercare.
Congruency of multimodal data-driven personalization with shared decision-making for StayFine: individualized app-based relapse prevention for anxiety and depression in young people
Authors: Kooiman Bas E. A. M. , Robberegt Suzanne J. , Albers Casper J. , Bockting Claudi L. H. , Stikkelbroek Yvonne A. J. , Nauta Maaike H.
Published: September 2023

Tailoring interventions to the individual has been hypothesized to improve treatment efficacy. Personalization of target-specific underlying mechanisms might improve treatment effects as well as adherence. Data-driven personalization of treatment, however, is still in its infancy, especially concerning the integration of multiple sources of data-driven advice with shared decision-making. This study describes an innovative type of data-driven personalization in the context of StayFine, a guided app-based relapse prevention intervention for 13- to 21-year-olds in remission of anxiety or depressive disorders (n = 74). Participants receive six modules, of which three are chosen from five optional modules. Optional modules are Enhancing Positive Affect, Behavioral Activation, Exposure, Sleep, and Wellness. All participants receive Psycho-Education, Cognitive Restructuring, and a Relapse Prevention Plan. The personalization approach is based on four sources: (1) prior diagnoses (diagnostic interview), (2) transdiagnostic psychological factors (online self-report questionnaires), (3) individual symptom networks (ecological momentary assessment, based on a two-week diary with six time points per day), and subsequently, (4) patient preference based on shared decision-making with a trained expert by experience. This study details and evaluates this innovative type of personalization approach, comparing the congruency of advised modules between the data-driven sources (1–3) with one another and with the chosen modules during the shared decision-making process (4). The results show that sources of data-driven personalization provide complementary advice rather than a confirmatory one. The indications of the modules Exposure and Behavioral Activation were mostly based on the diagnostic interview, Sleep on the questionnaires, and Enhancing Positive Affect on the network model. Shared decision-making showed a preference for modules improving positive concepts rather than combating negative ones, as an addition to the data-driven advice. Future studies need to test whether treatment outcomes and dropout rates are improved through personalization.
Decreased step count prior to the first visit for MDD treatment: a retrospective, observational, longitudinal cohort study of continuously measured walking activity obtained from smartphones
Authors: Fujino Yoshihisa , Tokuda Fumie , Fujimoto Shinji
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common debilitating psychiatric condition and a major cause of productivity loss in workers. Using intermittent, subjective indicators, previous studies have shown that physical activity can predict lower levels of depressive symptoms. However, there is an unmet need for continuous and objective measures to identify MDD development before it results in productivity loss. The aim of this study was to elucidate the association between continuously measured walking activity and the development of MDD.

Methods

This retrospective, observational, longitudinal cohort study used health insurance claims data. Individuals aged 20–74 years were included if they had a record of MDD diagnosis and daily step count data for the 60 days before and after the first recorded MDD-related visit, which was defined as the index date. Multivariate analysis was conducted to compare 7-day moving averages of step counts on each day of the analysis period with the mean step count on the index date. Joinpoint regression analysis was used to determine when the trajectory of the moving step count average changed (inflection point).

Results

In total, 2,143 patients with a mean age of 41.2 (standard deviation [SD]: 10.6) years were included. The majority of patients were men (69.5%) and employed full-time (94.1%). Antidepressants were prescribed for 59.2% of patients. The 7-day moving average step count decreased from 6,310 (SD: 3758) at day −60 to 5,879 (SD: 3183) at the index date (first recorded MDD-related visit), and then increased to 6,062 (SD: 4029) at day +60. Compared with the index date, the 7-day moving average of step counts was significantly higher at days −60 to −1, +23 to +33, and + 42 to +60, and significantly lower at days +2 and + 3. Joinpoint regression analysis of 7-day moving average step counts from day −60 to day 0 identified an inflection point at day −13.

Conclusion

In working-age Japanese people, a formal diagnosis of MDD was preceded by a notable decline in daily step counts by approximately 2 weeks. MDD diagnosis and (presumed) treatment were followed by a gradual increase in daily step counts.
Moderating effects of perceived social support on self-efficacy and psychological well-being of Chinese nurses: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Lu Jiachen , Wang Bin , Dou Xiaofeng , Yu Yingying , Zhang Yanni , Ji Haoqiang , Chen Xu , Sun Meng , Duan Yuxin , Pan Yuanping , Chen Yunting , Yi Yaohui , Zhou Ling
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Nurses experience significant physical and psychological stress that negatively influences their psychological well-being. The objective of this study was to explore the association between self-efficacy and psychological well-being among Chinese nurses and to assess the moderating effects of perceived social support (PSS).

Methods

In 2020, a hospital-based cross-sectional study using a multistage random sampling approach was performed in five regions of Liaoning, China. Of the 1,200 surveyed nurses, 1,010 completed questionnaires that evaluated the demographic information, 14-item Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, General Self-Efficacy Scale, and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. To examine the factors associated with mental health parameters, hierarchical multiple regression analysis was performed. The interactions were visualized using a simple slope analysis.

Results

The mean depression and anxiety scores for Chinese nurses were 8.74 ± 3.50 and 6.18 ± 3.26, respectively. The association between self-efficacy and depression differed between the low perceived social support (PSS) group (1 SD below the mean, β = −0.169, p < 0.01) and high PSS group (1 SD above the mean, β = −0.077, p < 0.01). Similarly, the association between self-efficacy and anxiety differed between the low PSS group (1 SD below the mean, β = −0.155, p < 0.01) and high PSS group (1 SD above the mean, β = −0.044, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

We found that Chinese nurses experienced high levels of anxiety and depression. Furthermore, PSS moderates the relationship between self-efficacy and psychological well-being. Therefore, interventions targeting self-efficacy and PSS should be implemented to improve the psychological well-being of nurses.
Health and economic outcomes of 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine compared to 15-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine strategies for adults in Greece
Authors: Gourzoulidis George , Barmpouni Myrto , Kossyvaki Vasiliki , Vietri Jeffrey , Tzanetakos Charalampos
Published: September 2023

Objective

Higher valency pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) are expected to improve protection against pneumococcal disease through coverage of additional serotypes. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV20) compared to 15-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV15) alone or followed by 23-valent polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23) for adults in Greece.

Methods

A published Markov model was adapted to simulate lifetime risk of clinical and economic outcomes from the public payer’s perspective. The model population was stratified based on age and risk profile (i.e., low, moderate, or high-risk of developing pneumococcal disease). Epidemiologic parameters, serotype coverage and vaccines’ effectiveness were based on published literature, while direct medical costs (prices €, 2022) were obtained from official sources. Main model outcomes were projected number of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) and all-cause non-bacteremic pneumonia (NBP) cases and attributable deaths, costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALY) for each vaccination strategy. Sensitivity analyses were performed to ascertain the robustness of model results.

Results

Over the modeled time horizon, vaccination with PCV20 compared to PCV15 alone or PCV15 followed by PPV23 prevents an additional 747 and 646 cases of IPD, 10,334 and 10,342 cases of NBP and 468 and 455 deaths respectively, resulting in incremental gain of 1,594 and 1,536 QALYs and cost savings of €11,183 and €48,858, respectively. PSA revealed that the probability of PCV20 being cost-effective at the predetermined threshold of €34,000 per QALY gained was 100% compared to either PCV15 alone or the combination of PCV15 followed by PPV23.

Conclusion

PCV20 is estimated to improve public health by averting additional pneumococcal disease cases and deaths relative to PCV15 alone or followed by PPV23, and therefore translates to cost-savings for the public payer. Overall results showed that vaccination with PCV20 was estimated to be a dominant vaccination strategy (improved health outcomes with reduced costs) over PCV15 alone or followed by PPV23 for prevention of pneumococcal disease in adults in Greece.
Trends in deaths following drug use in England before, during, and after the COVID-19 lockdowns
Authors: Sekeris Athanasios , Algahtani Thikra , Aldabergenov Daniyar , Rock Kirsten L. , Auwal Fatima , Aldewaissan Farah , Williams Bryn D. , Kalk Nicola J. , Copeland Caroline S.
Published: September 2023

Aim

This research aimed to describe how the characteristics of deaths following drug use changed during the COVID-19 pandemic in England, and how this can inform future strategy to support the health and social care of people who use drugs in future emergency scenarios.

Method

All deaths reported to the National Programme on Substance Abuse Deaths which occurred between January 2018 and December 2021 inclusive were extracted for analysis. Exponential smoothing models were constructed to determine any differences between forecasted vs. actual trends.

Key results

Following the first lockdown period in England there were significant increases in the proportion of people who died at home beyond the 95% confidence bounds of the exponential smoothing model and concurrent decreases in the proportion of people who died in hospital. Whilst the overall proportion of deaths attributable to opioids did not significantly deviate from the forecasted trend, there were significant increases in methadone-related deaths and decreases in heroin/morphine-related death beyond the 95% confidence bounds. The proportion of deaths concluded as suicide increased, as did those implicating antidepressant use. There were no changes in the proportion of deaths following use of other drug classes, alcohol use in combination with psychoactive drugs, or on decedent demographics (gender, age, and drug user status). A small number of deaths due to drug use had COVID-19 infection itself listed as a cause of death (n = 23).

Conclusion

For people who use drugs, the impact of the restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic was greater than that of infection from the virus itself. The health and social care strategy for these people needs to be pre-emptively adapted to mitigate against the specific risk factors for fatal drug overdose associated with future emergency scenarios.
Case report: A toxoplasmic encephalitis in an immunocompromised child detected through metagenomic next-generation sequencing
Authors: Yu Chuang-Wei , Zhu Xiong-Feng , Huang Chongjian , Meng Hua-Dong , Cao Xiao-Guang
Published: September 2023

There exist numerous pathogens that are capable of causing infections within the central nervous system (CNS); however, conventional detection and analysis methods prove to be challenging. Clinical diagnosis of CNS infections often depends on clinical characteristics, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, imaging, and molecular detection assays. Unfortunately, these methods can be both insensitive and time consuming, which can lead to missed diagnoses and catastrophic outcomes, especially in the case of infrequent diseases. Despite the application of appropriate prophylactic regimens and evidence-based antimicrobial agents, CNS infections continue to result in significant morbidity and mortality in hospital settings.

Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) is a novel tool that enables the identification of thousands of pathogens in a target-independent manner in a single run. The role of this innovative detection method in clinical pathogen diagnostics has matured over time. In this particular research, clinicians employed mNGS to investigate a suspected CNS infection in a child with leukemia, and unexpectedly detected Toxoplasma gondii.

Case

A 3-year-old child diagnosed with T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma was admitted to our hospital due to a 2-day history of fever and headache, along with 1 day of altered consciousness. Upon admission, the patient’s Glasgow Coma Scale score was 14. Brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed multiple abnormal signals. Due to the patient’s atypical clinical symptoms and laboratory test results, determining the etiology and treatment plan was difficulty.

Subsequently, the patient underwent next-generation sequencing examination of cerebrospinal fluid. The following day, the results indicated the presence of Toxoplasma gondii. The patient received treatment with a combination of sulfamethoxazole (SMZ) and azithromycin. After approximately 7 days, the patient’s symptoms significantly improved, and they were discharged from the hospital with oral medication to continue at home. A follow-up polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing after about 6 weeks revealed the absence of Toxoplasma.

Conclusion

This case highlights the potential of mNGS as an effective method for detecting toxoplasmic encephalitis (TE). Since mNGS can identify thousands of pathogens in a single run, it may be a promising detection method for investigating the causative pathogens of central nervous system infections with atypical features.
Safety surveillance for PrEP in pregnant and breastfeeding women
Authors: Fairlie Lee , Lavies Diane , Kalk Emma , Mhlongo Otty , Patel Faeezah , Technau Karl-Günter , Mahtab Sana , Moodley Dhayendre , Subedar Hasina , Mullick Saiqa , Sawry Shobna , Mehta Ushma
Published: September 2023

The risk of HIV acquisition is higher during pregnancy and postpartum than other times. Newly acquired maternal HIV infection associated with high primary viraemia, substantially increases the risk of vertical HIV transmission. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) reduces the risk of HIV acquisition. Currently available products include oral tenofovir/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF)/FTC), long-acting cabotegravir (CAB-LA) and the dapivirine ring (DVR). All except oral TDF/FTC have limited safety data available for use in pregnant and breastfeeding women. The safety of new PrEP agents for pregnant women and the fetus, infant and child, either exposed in utero or during breastfeeding is an ongoing concern for health care workers and pregnant and breastfeeding women, particularly as the safety risk appetite for antiretroviral (ARV) agents used as PrEP is lower in pregnant and breastfeeding women who are HIV-uninfected, compared to women living with HIV taking ARVs as treatment. With the widespread rollout of TDF/FTC among pregnant women in South Africa and other low-middle income countries (LMIC) and the potential introduction of new PrEP agents for pregnant women, there is a need for safety surveillance systems to identify potential signals of risk to either the mother or fetus, measure the burden of such a risk, and where appropriate, provide specific reassurance to PrEP users. Safety data needs to be collected across the continuum of the product life cycle from pre-licensure into the post-marketing period, building a safety profile through both passive and active surveillance systems, recognising the strengths and limitations of each, and the potential for bias and confounding. Pharmacovigilance systems that aim to assess the risk of adverse birth outcomes in pregnant women exposed to PrEP and other agents need to consider the special requirements of pregnancy epidemiology to ensure that the data derived from surveillance are sufficiently robust to inform treatment policies. Here we review the known safety profiles of currently available PrEP candidates in women of child-bearing potential, pregnancy and breastfeeding and discuss pragmatic approaches for such surveillance in HIV-endemic LMICs.
Encountering deception in virtual spaces: guidelines for virtual ethnography
Authors: Owens Lisa Lucile
Published: September 2023

This Perspective Essay draws from an experience of deception in virtual fieldwork and considers implications for those designing methodologies for virtual ethnographies. As qualitative field work increasingly takes place within virtual spaces and through virtual means, researchers are faced with critical dilemmas in the processes of data gathering and verification. One of these dilemmas concerns ensuring data validity and facticity if encountered with research subjects who are deceptive about their identity, experiences, or relationship to the field of research. This Perspective Essay offers specific guidelines concerning articulating the nature and possibilities of deception in virtual spaces, identifying deceptive data, and what to do with deceptive data in order to maintain data validity and transparency.
Prevalence of adulteration in dietary supplements and recommendations for safe supplement practices in sport
Authors: Jagim Andrew R. , Harty Patrick S. , Erickson Jacob L. , Tinsley Grant M. , Garner Dan , Galpin Andrew J.
Published: September 2023

The prevalence of dietary supplement use among athletes continues to rise with 60–80% of athletes often reporting current or previous use of dietary supplements. While select dietary ingredients have been shown to improve acute performance and enhance training adaptations over time, it is important to still consider the risk vs. reward for athletes before opting to consume a dietary supplement. Previous work has indicated that certain dietary supplements may pose risks for inadvertent doping, may be susceptible to mislabelling, could be banned by certain governing bodies of sport, or pose health risks for certain populations. The purpose of the current narrative review is to summarize the prevalence of adulteration in dietary sport supplement products, outline the risks of inadvertent doping for athletes, and highlight best practices regarding safe supplementation strategies. Analytical studies have found anywhere from 14 to 50% of samples analyzed from dietary supplement products have tested positive for anabolic agents or other prohibited substances. It is important for the consumer to adhere to safe supplementation strategies, which include following serving size recommendations, cross-referencing ingredient profiles with the list of prohibited substances, choosing quality products that have been verified by a third-party certification program, and being cognizant of consuming multiple dietary supplement products with overlapping ingredient profiles. Once these practices have been considered, it is reasonable for an athlete to utilize dietary supplements as a strategy to optimize performance and health, with a low risk of failing a drug test (adverse analytical finding) and experiencing adverse events.
Invisible women: barriers for women professionals in the water, energy, food, and environment sectors in Nepal
Authors: Buchy Marlène , Elias Marlène , Khadka Manohara
Published: September 2023

Despite evidence of women’s roles and expertise in the management of water, energy, food, and the environment (WEFE), the WEFE literature is almost silent on gender issues. In the context of climate change, achieving more inclusive management of natural resources is vital; yet women continue to be underrepresented as professionals in WEFE sectors, and largely absent in leadership positions. Using Nepal as a case study, this paper explores the enduring barriers to their exclusion, and entry points for greater equity among professionals in these sectors. To do so, we draw on key informant interviews with 34 male and 31 women professionals from government, civil society, non-governmental organizations and consultants, as well as a roundtable discussion with 20 women professionals specifically focused on gender barriers in these sectors in Nepal. Drawing on Gaventa (2006)’s power cube, this paper examines how power dynamics within and between the public and the private spheres create a web of barriers that conflate to sideline women professionals. While women have reached the “closed space” as defined by Gaventa (i.e., are recruited to professional positions in WEFE sectors), different sources of “hidden” and “invisible” power at play in the public and private spheres continue to limit their participation, influence and decision-making. We argue that the continued marginalization of women professionals calls for a focus on understanding the power and intersectionality dynamics that sustain exclusion. This focus is critical for the development of strategies to increase the voice and leadership of women professionals in WEFE decision-making.
Defining and averting syndemic pathways in aquaculture: a major global food sector
Authors: Stentiford Grant D. , Tyler Charles R. , Ellis Robert P. , Bean Tim P. , MacKenzie Simon , Brugere Cecile , Holt Corey C. , Peeler Edmund J. , Christison Kevin W. , Rushton Jonathan , Bass David
Published: September 2023

Aquaculture now provides half of all aquatic protein consumed globally—with most current and future production occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Concerns over the availability and application of effective policies to deliver safe and sustainable future supply have the potential to hamper further development of the sector. Creating healthy systems must extend beyond the simple exclusion of disease agents to tackle the host, environmental, and human drivers of poor outcomes and build new policies that incorporate these broader drivers. Syndemic theory provides a potential framework for operationalizing this One Health approach.
Characterizing Ethiopian cattle production systems for disease burden analysis
Authors: Li Yin , Mayberry Dianne , Jemberu Wudu , Schrobback Peggy , Herrero Mario , Chaters Gemma , Knight-Jones Theodore , Rushton Jonathan
Published: September 2023

This paper addresses knowledge gaps in the biomass, productivity and value of livestock for the pastoral, mixed crop-livestock and specialized dairy systems in Ethiopia. Population size, reproductive performance, mortality, offtake and productivity of cattle were calculated from official statistics and a meta-analysis of data available in the published literature. This information was then used to estimate biomass and output value for 2020 using a herd dynamics model. The mixed-crop livestock system dominates the Ethiopian cattle sector, with 55 million cattle (78% total population) and contributing 8.52 billion USD to the economy through the provision of meat, milk, hides and draft power in 2021. By comparison, the pastoral (13.4 million head) and specialized dairy (1.8 million head) systems are much smaller. Productivity varied between different production systems, with differences in live body weight, productivity and prices from different sources. The estimated total cattle biomass was 14.8 billion kg in 2021, i.e., 11.3 billion kg in the mixed crop-livestock system, 2.60 billion kg in the pastoral system and 0.87 billion kg in the specialized dairy system. The total economic asset values of cattle in the mixed crop-livestock, pastoral and specialized dairy systems were estimated as 24.8, 5.28 and 1.37 billion USD, respectively. The total combined output value (e.g., beef, milk and draft power) of cattle production was 11.9 billion USD, which was 11.2% of the GDP in Ethiopia in 2021. This work quantifies the importance of cattle in the Ethiopian economy. These estimates of herd structure, reproductive performance, productivity, biomass, and economic value for cattle production systems in Ethiopia can be used to inform high-level policy, revealing under-performance and areas to prioritize and provide a basis for further technical analysis, such as disease burden.
Liver Transplantation for Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) With or Without Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)—A European Society of Organ Transplantation (ESOT) Consensus Statement
Authors: Carbone M. , Della Penna A. , Mazzarelli C. , De Martin E. , Villard C. , Bergquist A. , Line P. D. , Neuberger J. M. , Al-Shakhshir S. , Trivedi P. J. , Baumann U. , Cristoferi L. , Hov J. , Fischler B. , Hadzic N. H. , Debray D. , D’Antiga L. , Selzner N. , Belli L. S. , Nadalin S.
Published: September 2023

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is the classical hepatobiliary manifestation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and a lead indication for liver transplantation (LT) in the western world. In this article, we present a Consensus Statement on LT practice, developed by a dedicated Guidelines’ Taskforce of the European Society of Organ Transplantation (ESOT). The overarching goal is to provide practical guidance on commonly debated topics, including indications and timing of LT, management of bile duct stenosis in patients on the transplant waiting list, technical aspects of transplantation, immunosuppressive strategies post-transplant, timing and extension of intestinal resection and futility criteria for re-transplantation.
Fluid-Dynamic and Aeroacoustic Characterization of Side-by-Side Rotor Interaction
Authors: Nargi Ranieri Emanuele , Candeloro Paolo , De Gregorio Fabrizio , Ceglia Giuseppe , Pagliaroli Tiziano
Published: September 2023

An investigation of twin corotating rotors’ interaction effects was performed by load (thrust and torque) measurements, flow field dynamics through Time-Resolved Particle Image Velocimetry, and acoustic emissions using a microphone array. Two rotors, each with a diameter of D = 393.7 mm and equipped with three blades, were investigated in a side-by-side configuration, to simulate a multirotor propulsion system. The mutual distance between the propellers is 1.02 D, and four different rotating speeds, i.e., 2620, 3500, 4360, and 5200 RPM, were explored. In such a configuration, thrust and torque undergo a reduction compared to that found for a single propeller configuration. The level of aerodynamic load fluctuations increases as well. The interaction of the wakes produces a recirculation region at the external periphery of the shear layers. An innovative approach involving the coupling of Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) and Wavelet Transform has been employed to investigate the dominant structures within the flow and their mutual influence. The results reveal that the interacting wakes are dominated by a wave-like motion pulsating at Harmonics of the Blade Passing Frequency (HBPF) of 1/3. Higher orders of POD modes capture coherent vortical structures, including tip vortices pulsating at HBPF = 1. The aeroacoustic investigation shows that the noise level, in terms of the Over All Sound Pressure Level, presents a remarkable increment concerning that generated by the single propeller.
Correlations among Fatigue Indicators, Subjective Perception of Fatigue, and Workload Settings in Flight Operations
Authors: Bartulović Dajana , Steiner Sanja , Fakleš Dario , Mavrin Jeličić Martina
Published: September 2023

Conducting flight operations at the pace of air traffic relies on shift work, overtime work, work at night, work in different and numerous time zones, and unbalanced flight crew schedules. Such working hours and workload settings can cause disturbances of the circadian rhythm and sleep disorders among flight crew members; this can result in fatigue and can have an impact on the safety of flight operations. Fatigue impacts many cognitive abilities such as vigilance, memory, spatial orientation, learning, problem solving, and decision making. In aviation, fatigue has been identified as a hazard to the safety of flight operations. This paper describes objectivation methods for data collecting processes regarding flight crew fatigue, using an electronic system of standardized chronometric cognitive tests and subjective self-assessment surveys on the subjective perception of fatigue. The data collected were analyzed using statistical methods to identify and quantify elements that affect the appearance of fatigue. Finally, causal modeling methods were used to determine correlations among the measured flight crew fatigue indicators, the subjective perception of fatigue, and the defined workload settings. The results of this research reveal which elements strongly impact flight crew fatigue. The detected correlations can help define improved measures for the mitigation of fatigue risk in future flight operations.
Large Eddy Simulation and Dynamic Mode Decomposition of Supersonic Combustion Instability in a Strut-Based Scramjet Combustor
Authors: Cheng Yuwei , Chen Qian , Niu Xiaofei , Cai Shufeng
Published: September 2023

Supersonic combustion instability studies are crucial for the future maturation of scramjet engines. In the present paper, the supersonic combustion instability in a strut-based scramjet combustor is investigated through large eddy simulation and dynamic mode decomposition. The results show significant pressure oscillation in the strut-based scramjet combustor when the air parameters at the combustor inlet and the fuel parameters at the injector outlet are under certain conditions, and these pressure oscillation situations correspond to supersonic combustion instability. The oscillations have multiple dominant frequencies, including relatively low frequency of 2984 Hz, high frequency of 62,180 Hz, and very high frequency of 110,562 Hz. Large pressure oscillations in the strut-based scramjet combustor are closely related to wake instability, shear layer instability, shear layer and wave interactions, and combustion. Reducing the air total temperature at the combustor inlet can attenuate the pressure oscillations, and reducing the fuel flow rate at the injector outlet can also attenuate the pressure oscillations.
Multi-Objective Optimization Design of Adaptive Cycle Engine with Serpentine 2-D Exhaust System Based on Infrared Stealth
Authors: Chen Haoying , Wang Yifan , Zhang Haibo
Published: September 2023

In the overall design process of the turbofan engine, it has become crucial to address the challenge of selecting design parameters that not only meet the flight thrust demand but also enhance engine economy. As the demand for stealth performance in future fighter aircraft increases, it becomes imperative to consider infrared stealth indicators during the design process. The adaptive cycle engine possesses an adjustable thermal cycle, necessitating careful attention to the selection of design parameters to fulfill the requirements. Therefore, this paper proposes a multi-objective optimization design method for the adaptive cycle engine that integrates infrared stealth technology. Initially, the parameter cycle model of the adaptive cycle engine is established based on the principles of aerodynamic and thermodynamic calculations. Subsequently, the model incorporates a serpentine two-dimensional (2-D) exhaust system to achieve infrared suppression. Meanwhile, a method for predicting the infrared characteristics is proposed to calculate the infrared radiation intensity of the engine exhaust system. Finally, the sequential quadratic programming algorithm is applied to comprehensively optimize the engine’s performance. The simulation results reveal that the multi-objective optimization design can effectively select appropriate design parameters to im-prove the engine, thereby reducing fuel consumption while meeting thrust requirements. This approach combines the consideration of infrared stealth technology with the optimization of engine performance, thus contributing to the development of advanced adaptive cycle engines.
Ethics and Transparency Issues in Digital Platforms: An Overview
Authors: Mirghaderi Leilasadat , Sziron Monika , Hildt Elisabeth
Published: September 2023

There is an ever-increasing application of digital platforms that utilize artificial intelligence (AI) in our daily lives. In this context, the matters of transparency and accountability remain major concerns that are yet to be effectively addressed. The aim of this paper is to identify the zones of non-transparency in the context of digital platforms and provide recommendations for improving transparency issues on digital platforms. First, by surveying the literature and reflecting on the concept of platformization, choosing an AI definition that can be adopted by different stakeholders, and utilizing AI ethics, we will identify zones of non-transparency in the context of digital platforms. Second, after identifying the zones of non-transparency, we go beyond a mere summary of existing literature and provide our perspective on how to address the raised concerns. Based on our survey of the literature, we find that three major zones of non-transparency exist in digital platforms. These include a lack of transparency with regard to who contributes to platforms; lack of transparency with regard to who is working behind platforms, the contributions of those workers, and the working conditions of digital workers; and lack of transparency with regard to how algorithms are developed and governed. Considering the abundance of high-level principles in the literature that cannot be easily operationalized, this is an attempt to bridge the gap between principles and operationalization.
A Narrative Review on the Role of Dalbavancin in the Treatment of Bone and Joint Infections
Authors: Dimopoulou Dimitra , Mantadakis Elpis , Koutserimpas Christos , Samonis George
Published: September 2023

Bone and joint infections (BJI) require prolonged antimicrobial treatment, leading to lengthy hospitalizations, high costs, the risk of nosocomial infections, and the development of antimicrobial resistance. Dalbavancin is a novel semisynthetic lipoglycopeptide approved for the treatment of adults and children with acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections. This narrative review aims to summarize the characteristics of dalbavancin and the current scientific evidence regarding its clinical efficacy and safety in the treatment of BJI. A literature search until June 2023 was performed to identify all published research about the role of dalbavancin in the management of BJI. Due to its unique pharmacokinetics characterized by prolonged half-life, high bactericidal activity against most Gram-positive bacteria, a good safety profile, and high tissue penetration, dalbavancin can be a valuable alternative to the treatment of BJI. Clinical studies have shown its non-inferiority compared to conventional therapies in BJI, offering potent activity against key pathogens and an extended dosing interval that may shorten hospitalization. In conclusion, dalbavancin represents a promising treatment option for BJI with a favorable safety profile, but further research in both adults and particularly children, who are ideal candidates for long-acting antibiotics, is necessary to evaluate the role of dalbavancin in BJI.