bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Burial wedges—Evidence for prolonged progressive burial of the Paradox Basin salt walls—With a detailed example from Gypsum Valley, Colorado
Authors: Langford Richard P. , Giles Katherine A. , Rowan Mark G. , McFarland Joshua , Heness Liz , Lankford‐Bravo David , Thompson Jobe Jessica , Soltero Alondra , Bailey Claire
Published: January 2022

Many Paradox Basin passive salt diapirs underwent a prolonged history (>65 my) of progressive burial during the Early Triassic to Jurassic. Burial is recorded by a series of geographically limited wedge‐shaped stratal panels of diapiric roof, termed ‘burial wedges’, which partly covered the diapirs, thereby gradually narrowing them. Tectonostratigraphic analysis of the Triassic Chinle Fm. burial wedge developed on the Gypsum Valley diapir illustrates the typical features and processes associated with burial wedges. Burial wedges represent the first description of the geometry and deposition of strata deposited on a partially buried diapir. Recognition of burial wedges allows reinterpretation of Paradox Basin diapirs where large areas of the roof strata were syndepositionally folded rather than deformed in the Neogene. The observations and concepts can also be applied to the terminal histories of passive salt diapirs in other salt basins. Preserved burial wedges cover 97 km2, or 64% of the original Gypsum Valley diapir and overlie regional unconformities. Onlapping strata stack into wedge halokinetic sequences (HS). Caprock‐clast conglomerates indicate deposition on exposed diapirs. Syndepositional deformation of burial wedge strata formed small synclinal ‘microbasins’ and contractional chevron folds trending subparallel to the diapir margin. A four‐stage burial wedge model includes the following: (1) erosion of the diapir roof during formation of regional unconformities; (2) onlap and partial burial of the diapir; (3) local dissolution and possible concomitant gravity‐driven folding and (4) ongoing rotation during deposition, forming wedge HS signifying continued inflation of the top of the diapir. Post formation, the burial wedges were deformed in ways that obscure their original geometry. The most common deformation is downwarping of the burial wedge into the diapir due to dissolution or lateral movement of salt, creating an anticlinal fold that overlies the underlying diapir margin. These anticlines may be offset on small normal faults subparallel to the diapir margin. Burial wedges were faulted during later diapir breaching and solution collapse.
Macroeconomic uncertainty and the COVID‐19 pandemic: Measure and impacts on the Canadian economy
Authors: Moran Kevin , Stevanovic Dalibor , Touré Adam Kader
Published: January 2022

This paper constructs a measure of Canadian macroeconomic uncertainty, by applying the Jurado et al. (2015) method to a large database. This measure reveals that the COVID‐19 pandemic has been associated with a very sharp rise of macroeconomic uncertainty in Canada, confirming other results showing similar large increases in uncertainty in the United States and elsewhere. The paper then uses a structural vector autoregression to compute the impacts on the Canadian economy of uncertainty shocks calibrated to match these recent COVID‐induced increases. We show that such shocks lead to severe economic downturns, lower inflation and persistent accommodating measures from monetary policy. Important distinctions emerge depending on whether the shock is interpreted as originating from US uncertainty—in which case the downturn is deep but relatively short—or from Canadian uncertainty, which leads to more protracted declines in economic activity.
De novo variants in AGO1 recapitulate a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder phenotype
Authors: Niu Yue , Qian Qiaoqiao , Li Juan , Gong Pan , Jiao Xianru , Mao Xiao , Xiao Bo , Long Lili , Yang Zhixian
Published: January 2022

AGO1, as one of the rare genes in neurodevelopmental disorders, is involved in the microRNA‐induced silencing complex. Here, we describe the clinical and genetic features of 18 individuals with de novo AGO1 variants: four new and 14 previously reported. Three variants are identified: two in‐frame deletion variants and one missense variant. The spectrum of AGO1‐related disorders included global development delay (GDD), intellectual disability (ID) with or without epilepsy, autism spectrum disorder, hypotonia and dysmorphisms. Focal seizures are the most common type of seizure, occasionally with atypical absence. Mild deafness may be a new phenotype of AGO1‐releated disease. Gly199Ser may be a hot‐spot variant of AGO1 with the same phenotype: GDD/ID, intractable epilepsy, remarkably with Rolandic discharges, and even reaching electrical status epilepticus during sleep.
Advances on pharmacology and toxicology of aconitine
Authors: Li Liuying , Zhang Limin , Liao Tingting , Zhang Chuantao , Chen Keling , Huang Qun
Published: January 2022

Aconitum alkaloids are considered to be the characteristic bioactive ingredients of Aconitum species, which are widely applied to the treatment of diverse diseases, and aconitine (AC) is found in most Aconitum plants. Research evidence shows that low‐dose AC has a good therapeutic potential in heart failure, myocardial infarction, neuroinflammatory diseases, rheumatic diseases, and tumors, which has become one of the hotspots in global research in recent years. However, the cardiotoxicity and neurotoxicity of AC have also attracted extensive attention. Excessive use of AC always induces ventricular tachyarrhythmia and heart arrest, even can be potentially lethal. Therefore, AC cannot simply be regarded as a good medicine or a toxicant, but its underlying curative and toxic properties remained chaos. In order to dig the unique pharmacological value of AC while preventing its toxicity, the pharmacological activities and toxic effects of AC were summarized in this paper, providing new insight into the safe and effective use of AC in clinical practice.
Professional skepticism through audit praxis: An Aristotelian perspective
Authors: Martinov‐Bennie Nonna , Dyball Maria Cadiz , Tweedie Dale
Published: January 2022

While professional skepticism (PS) is a critical element of audit practice, academic and professional discourse offers unclear and sometimes competing narratives of how to maintain or improve it. This study provides a holistic account of how PS develops by interpreting interviews of 21 highly experienced auditors. Using a theoretical framework from Aristotle and Alasdair MacIntyre, PS is interpreted as a character virtue of skepticism guided by the intellectual virtue of phrónēsis. PS is developed through two distinct stages of auditors' careers: (i) the pre‐professional phase, in which an auditor acquires characteristics amenable to developing PS; and (ii) the professional praxis phase, in which PS is inculcated through a combination of formal and on‐the‐job instruction and audit experience. This approach to how PS is developed suggests that audit firms could focus more explicitly on recruiting novice auditors whose pre‐professional characteristics make them receptive to acquiring PS, and on blended learning, with formal and on‐the job instruction and habituation through audit experience.
Cough syncope as a cause of motor vehicle crash: fatal distraction?
Authors: Guo Hui , Naughton Charles W. , Naughton Matthew T.
Published: January 2022

Coughing is a rare cause of syncope that can contribute to motor vehicle crashes. The precise pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for the syncope are unclear. We report six occasions in which motor vehicle drivers have been involved in serious crashes and cough syncope was cited as the cause. In each occasion, an alternative cause leading to the crash could be identified. Cough as a cause of syncope should be a diagnosis of exclusion and used with great caution as a medico‐legal defence. A suggested criterion for confirmation of cough syncope is recommended.
Update on echocardiography: do we still need a stethoscope?
Authors: McLeod Peter , Beck Sierra
Published: January 2022

The focus of this article is to review point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) of the chest as an adjunct to use of the stethoscope and physical examination. We consider selected evidence supporting POCUS for evaluation of acute dyspnoea and focussed cardiac assessment, explore current and the future directions in POCUS for the generalist physician and review some historical notes on auscultation of the chest and parallels to the evolution of POCUS.
Angioedema after favipiravir treatment: Two cases
Authors: Islamoglu Mehmet Sami , Dokur Mehmet , Borku Uysal Betul , Onal Burak
Published: January 2022

Drug‐induced angioedema often affects elderly patients with chronic drug use. Proper diagnosis and prompt with effective treatment reduce mortality. With the increasing use of favipiravir, many side effects, especially increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels due to liver toxicity, and also skin lesions are reported. First patient oral favipiravir treatment on the second day was admitted to the hospital with rash and swelling on the eyelids. Second patient suffered from significant swelling on the upper lip and displayed angioedema. In this cases, angioedema findings regressed after rapid diagnosis and parenterally administered antihistamine and steroid treatment. Although there is no effective drug therapy in the treatment of COVID‐19, favipiravir is also included in the treatment protocols in many countries. Clinicians should be careful about the side effects and possible skin manifestations, especially including angioedema, related to the use of favipiravir.
Piloting a registry for paediatric sepsis: The PoRPoiSe study
Authors: Dougherty Harry , Eisen Sarah , Fraser Lauren K , Gomes Sylvester , Roland Damian
Published: January 2022

Aim

To develop a model for a paediatric sepsis registry for use in emergency care settings. A regional study, in the UK, was undertaken to identify the most basic registry components which are desirable and feasible using the concept of a minimum viable product.

Methods

Two‐round survey of clinicians using a modified Delphi methodology in conjunction with a regional data collection project in three paediatric emergency departments across London.

Results

The survey identified 34 desirable information items to be included in a registry. Fifteen of 34 items are currently feasible from our experience of data collection.

Conclusion

The development of a multi‐centre paediatric sepsis registry sepsis may have several benefits but is currently extremely limited primarily because of technological fragmentation within our Health Service. Our findings have important implications for researchers wishing to plan sepsis surveillance programmes, locally and internationally.
Pediatric Behҫet disease: Update in diagnosis and management
Authors: Burns Emily , Cooper Elizabeth , Peterson Rosemary , Diaz Lucia Z.
Published: January 2022

Behҫet disease is a multisystem inflammatory disease and variable vessel vasculitis involving primarily the oral and genital mucosa, skin, and eyes. Diagnosis is challenging due to the lack of a specific diagnostic test and overlap with other autoinflammatory diseases. Treatment of pediatric Behҫet disease aims to reduce inflammation and prevent future flares. The goal of this review is to provide guidance on the diagnostic workup and multidisciplinary approach of pediatric Behҫet disease and review evidence‐based treatment strategies for patients with refractory mucocutaneous manifestations.
An Approximation Scheme for Data Monetization
Authors: Mehta Sameer , Dawande Milind , Janakiraman Ganesh , Mookerjee Vijay
Published: January 2022

The unprecedented rate at which data are being generated has led to the growth of data markets where valuable data sets are bought and sold. A salient feature of this market is that a data‐buyer (agent) is endowed with multidimensional private information, namely, her “ideal” record that she values the most and how her valuation for a given record changes as its distance from her ideal record changes. Consequently, the revenue‐maximization problem faced by a data‐seller (principal), who serves multiple buyers, is a multidimensional mechanism‐design problem, which is well recognized as being difficult to solve. Our main result in this paper is an approximation scheme that guarantees a revenue within as close a positive amount from the optimal revenue as desired. The scheme generates a posted‐price menu consisting of a set of item–price pairs—each entry in the menu consists of an item, that is, a set of records from the data set, and the price corresponding to that item. As a trade‐off, the length of the menu resulting from the scheme increases as the desired guarantee gets closer to zero. For convenience in practice, data‐sellers may want the ability to limit the length of the menu used by the scheme. To facilitate this, we extend our analysis to obtain a general approximation guarantee corresponding to a menu of any given length. We also demonstrate how the seller can exploit buyers' preferences to generate intuitive and useful rules of thumb for an effective practical implementation of the scheme.
Approximate reference priors for Gaussian random fields
Authors: De Oliveira Victor , Han Zifei
Published: January 2022

Reference priors are theoretically attractive for the analysis of geostatistical data since they enable automatic Bayesian analysis and have desirable Bayesian and frequentist properties. But their use is hindered by computational hurdles that make their application in practice challenging. In this work, we derive a new class of default priors that approximate reference priors for the parameters of some Gaussian random fields. It is based on an approximation to the integrated likelihood of the covariance parameters derived from the spectral approximation of stationary random fields. This prior depends on the structure of the mean function and the spectral density of the model evaluated at a set of spectral points associated with an auxiliary regular grid. In addition to preserving the desirable Bayesian and frequentist properties, these approximate reference priors are more stable, and their computations are much less onerous than those of exact reference priors. Unlike exact reference priors, the marginal approximate reference prior of correlation parameter is always proper, regardless of the mean function or the smoothness of the correlation function. This property has important consequences for covariance model selection. An illustration comparing default Bayesian analyses is provided with a dataset of lead pollution in Galicia, Spain.
Values, Taboos, and Votes: How Basic Human Values Affect Populist Electoral Support
Authors: Ozdemir Ugur , Jacob Marc S.
Published: January 2022

How do individuals’ underlying value orientations affect populist voting? Building on the congruency model in social psychology, we theorize that voters holding non‐conformist values feel closest to political actors who employ a taboo‐breaking populist style in the political debate. Moreover, we hypothesize that security and universalism values feed into vote choices between right‐wing and left‐wing parties. Leveraging structural equation modeling (SEM) and data from the 2017 German Longitudinal Election Study (GLES), we find that non‐conformist values predict voting for the populist far‐right Alternative for Germany (AfD), but not for the left‐wing populist The Left. Further, security and universalism values are associated with a higher probability of voting for not only populist but also mainstream parties. These findings point to the underlying role of basic human values in electoral support for populist parties and political behavior in general.
The Formation Mechanism of European Markets: A Study Based on Typical Cases
Authors: Li Yiyang , Wang Mingxue
Published: January 2022

In urban renewal, the leaving and rebuilding of markets is a topic that is frequently discussed. Fairs are usually difficult to manage due to open air and non-fixed conditions, they are gradually unable to meet the needs of modern business. But European markets have a long history and show a Forward loop. The article hopes to explore the formation mechanism of European markets, select ten typical cases among them, and analyze the process and main points of the formation from stalls to markets. Finally, it summarizes the appropriate market development form in the urban expansion and renewal.
Maternal sleep behaviours preceding fetal heart rate events on cardiotocography
Authors: Wilson Danielle L. , Fung Alison M. , Skrzypek Hannah , Pell Gabrielle , Barnes Maree , Howard Mark E. , Walker Susan P.
Published: January 2022

In Australia, a significant proportion of stillbirths remain unexplained. Recent research has highlighted nocturnal maternal behaviours as potentially modifiable contributors. This study determined whether sleep‐related behaviours including sleep position and sleep‐disordered breathing adversely affect fetuses overnight, in both uncomplicated pregnancies and those at increased risk due to hypertensive disorders or fetal growth restriction (FGR). All participants underwent polysomnography with time‐synchronized fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring (cardiotocography – CTG) in late pregnancy. CTGs were analysed for abnormal FHR events, including decelerations and reduced variability, by two blinded observers and exported into the sleep study to temporally align FHR events with sleep behaviours. For each FHR event, 10 control epochs with normal FHR were randomly selected for the same participant. Conditional logistic regression assessed the relationships between FHR events and sleep behaviours. From 116 participants, 52 had a total of 129 FHR events overnight; namely prolonged decelerations and prolonged periods of reduced variability. Significantly more FHR events were observed in women with FGR and/or a hypertensive disorder compared with uncomplicated pregnancies (P = 0.006). FHR events were twice as likely to be preceded by a change in body position within the previous 5 min, compared with control epochs (P = 0.007), particularly in hypertensive pregnancies both with and without FGR. Overall, FHR events were not temporally related to supine body position, respiratory events or snoring. Our results indicate that most fetuses tolerate sleep‐related stressors, but further research is needed to identify the interplay of maternal and fetal conditions putting the fetus at risk overnight.

Key points

Maternal sleep behaviours including supine position and sleep‐disordered breathing are potential contributors to stillbirth but much of this work is based on self‐reported data.

Using time‐synchronized polysomnography and cardiotocography, we found that nocturnal fetal heart rate decelerations were more likely to be preceded by a change in body position compared with epochs containing normal fetal heart rate, particularly in hypertensive pregnancies with or without fetal growth restriction.

There was no temporal relationship between maternal sleeping position, snoring or apnoeic events and an abnormal fetal heart rate overnight.

We conclude that most fetuses can tolerate sleep‐related stressors with no evidence of fetal heart rate changes indicating compromised wellbeing.

Further work needs to identify how sleep behaviours contribute to stillbirth risk and how these intersect with underlying maternal and fetal conditions.
Nonlinear Modeling of Series-Type Pendulum Tuned Mass Damper-Tuned Liquid Damper
Authors: McNamara K. P. , Love J. S. , Tait M. J.
Published: January 2022

The nonlinear response of a series-type pendulum tuned mass damper-tuned liquid damper (TMD-TLD) system is investigated in this study. The TLD is mounted on the pendulum TMD in series to remove the need for costly viscous damping elements. Since the response of the TMD is greater than that of the primary structure, the TLD experiences a significant base motion, leading to a highly nonlinear response that is difficult to model. The nonlinear pendulum TMD equation of motion is modeled without linearizing assumptions. The TLD is represented by an incompressible smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) model that can capture large sloshing responses. The nonlinear model results are compared to shake table testing for a TMD-TLD system and a linear equivalent mechanical model. Four system configurations are considered. The nonlinear model shows good agreement with the experimental data for the TMD displacement and TLD wave heights in both time and frequency domains. The nonlinear model shows improved agreement compared to the linear model for all cases studied, especially for the TLD wave heights. The impact of simplifying the pendulum TMD equation of motion by the small-angle assumption is investigated for two cases. The results indicate that the simplified pendulum equation does not properly capture the frequency of the TMD in the TMD-TLD system and results in a reduction in calculated TLD wave heights compared to the fully nonlinear equation. It is therefore critical to consider the fully nonlinear pendulum TMD response to capture the TMD-TLD behavior.
Band formation and defects in a finite periodic quantum potential
Authors: Timberlake Todd K. , Woodfield Neilson
Published: January 2022

Periodic quantum systems often exhibit energy spectra with well-defined energy bands separated by band gaps. The formation of band structure in such periodic systems is usually presented in the context of Bloch's theorem or through other specialized techniques. Here, we present a simple model of a finite one-dimensional periodic quantum system that can be used to explore the formation of band structure in a straightforward way. Our model consists of an infinite square well containing several evenly spaced identical Dirac delta wells, both attractive and repulsive. We solve for the energy eigenvalues of this system directly and show the formation of band structure as the number of delta wells increases as well as how the size of the bands and gaps depends on the strength of the delta wells. These results are compared to the predictions from Bloch's theorem. In addition, we use this model to investigate how the energy spectrum is altered by the introduction of two types of defects in the periodicity of the system.
Wind turbine noise uncertainty quantification for downwind conditions using metamodeling
Authors: Kayser Bill , Gauvreau Benoit , Écotière David , Mallet Vivien
Published: January 2022

The influence of the ground and atmosphere on sound generation and propagation from wind turbines creates uncertainty in sound level estimations. Realistic simulations of wind turbine noise thus require quantifying the overall uncertainty on sound pressure levels induced by environmental phenomena. This study proposes a method of uncertainty quantification using a quasi-Monte Carlo method of sampling influential input data (i.e., environmental parameters) to feed an Amiet emission model coupled with a Parabolic Equation propagation model. This method allows for calculation of the probability distribution of the output data (i.e., sound pressure levels). As this stochastic uncertainty quantification method requires a large number of simulations, a metamodel of the global (emission-propagation) wind turbine noise model was built using the kriging interpolation technique to drastically reduce calculation time. When properly employed, the metamodeling technique can quantify statistics and uncertainties in sound pressure levels at locations downwind from wind turbines. This information provides better knowledge of sound pressure variability and will help to better control the quality of wind turbine noise prediction for inhomogeneous outdoor environments.
Basin-scale biogeography of marine phytoplankton reflects cellular-scale optimization of metabolism and physiology
Authors: Casey John R. , Boiteau Rene M. , Engqvist Martin K. M. , Finkel Zoe V. , Li Gang , Liefer Justin , Müller Christian L. , Muñoz Nathalie , Follows Michael J.
Published: January 2022

Extensive microdiversity within
Prochlorococcus
, the most abundant marine cyanobacterium, occurs at scales from a single droplet of seawater to ocean basins. To interpret the structuring role of variations in genetic potential, as well as metabolic and physiological acclimation, we developed a mechanistic constraint-based modeling framework that incorporates the full suite of genes, proteins, metabolic reactions, pigments, and biochemical compositions of 69 sequenced isolates spanning the
Prochlorococcus
pangenome. Optimizing each strain to the local, observed physical and chemical environment along an Atlantic Ocean transect, we predicted variations in strain-specific patterns of growth rate, metabolic configuration, and physiological state, defining subtle niche subspaces directly attributable to differences in their encoded metabolic potential. Predicted growth rates covaried with observed ecotype abundances, affirming their significance as a measure of fitness and inferring a nonlinear density dependence of mortality. Our study demonstrates the potential to interpret global-scale ecosystem organization in terms of cellular-scale processes.
A long-life lithium-oxygen battery via a molecular quenching/mediating mechanism
Authors: Zhang Jinqiang , Zhao Yufei , Sun Bing , Xie Yuan , Tkacheva Anastasia , Qiu Feilong , He Ping , Zhou Haoshen , Yan Kang , Guo Xin , Wang Shijian , McDonagh Andrew M. , Peng Zhangquan , Lu Jun , Wang Guoxiu
Published: January 2022

The advancement of lithium-oxygen (Li-O
2
) batteries has been hindered by challenges including low discharge capacity, poor energy efficiency, severe parasitic reactions, etc. We report an Li-O
2
battery operated via a new quenching/mediating mechanism that relies on the direct chemical reactions between a versatile molecule and superoxide radical/Li
2
O
2
. The battery exhibits a 46-fold increase in discharge capacity, a low charge overpotential of 0.7 V, and an ultralong cycle life >1400 cycles. Featuring redox-active 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-1-piperidinyloxy moieties bridged by a quenching-active perylene diimide backbone, the tailor-designed molecule acts as a redox mediator to catalyze discharge/charge reactions and serves as a reusable superoxide quencher to chemically react with superoxide species generated during battery operation. The all-in-one molecule can simultaneously tackle issues of parasitic reactions associated with superoxide radicals, singlet oxygen, high overpotentials, and lithium corrosion. The molecular design of multifunctional additives combining various capabilities opens a new avenue for developing high-performance Li-O
2
batteries.
Interactive Material: Numerical models of Farallon plate subduction: Creating and removing a flat slab
Authors: Currie Claire A. , Copeland Peter
Published: January 2022

Animations 1, 2, and 3. Animation 1. Evolution of Model 1 showing the full model domain. Animation 2. Evolution of Model 9 showing the full model domain. Animation 3. Evolution of Model 23 showing the full model domain.
Multimorbidity of non-communicable diseases in low-income and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Asogwa Ogechukwu Augustina , Boateng Daniel , Marzà-Florensa Anna , Peters Sanne , Levitt Naomi , van Olmen Josefien , Klipstein-Grobusch Kerstin
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Multimorbidity is a major public health challenge, with a rising prevalence in low/middle-income countries (LMICs). This review aims to systematically synthesise evidence on the prevalence, patterns and factors associated with multimorbidity of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among adults residing in LMICs.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of articles reporting prevalence, determinants, patterns of multimorbidity of NCDs among adults aged >18 years in LMICs. For the PROSPERO registered review, we searched PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane libraries for articles published from 2009 till 30 May 2020. Studies were included if they reported original research on multimorbidity of NCDs among adults in LMICs.

Results

The systematic search yielded 3272 articles; 39 articles were included, with a total of 1 220 309 participants. Most studies used self-reported data from health surveys. There was a large variation in the prevalence of multimorbidity; 0.7%–81.3% with a pooled prevalence of 36.4% (95% CI 32.2% to 40.6%). Prevalence of multimorbidity increased with age, and random effect meta-analyses showed that female sex, OR (95% CI): 1.48, 1.33 to 1.64, being well-off, 1.35 (1.02 to 1.80), and urban residence, 1.10 (1.01 to 1.20), respectively were associated with higher odds of NCD multimorbidity. The most common multimorbidity patterns included cardiometabolic and cardiorespiratory conditions.

Conclusion

Multimorbidity of NCDs is an important problem in LMICs with higher prevalence among the aged, women, people who are well-off and urban dwellers. There is the need for longitudinal data to access the true direction of multimorbidity and its determinants, establish causation and identify how trends and patterns change over time.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019133453.
Evidence base for the management of women with non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Jackson James , Alkhalil Mohammad , Ratcovich Hanna , Wilkinson Chris , Mehran Roxana , Kunadian Vijay
Published: January 2022

According to the Global Burden of Disease study, in 2019, there were an estimated 275.2 million cases of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women worldwide. Although there was a decrease in the global age-standardised prevalence of CVD in women between 1990 and 2010 (–5.8%), there has been a slight increase (1.0%) since 2010. There were an estimated 6.10 million deaths from CVD in women in 1990, rising to 8.94 million in 2019. Hospital admissions of young women with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) steadily increased from 27% in 1995–1999 to 32% in 2010–2014. Women with AMI compared with men are less likely to receive guideline-indicated pharmacological (aspirin 93.4% vs 94.7%, P2Y12inhibitors 79.3% vs 86.1% and statins 73.7% vs 77.5%) and revascularisation treatments (angiography (adjusted OR (aOR) 0.71), percutaneous coronary intervention (aOR 0.73)). Women represent <39% of clinical cardiovascular trial participants between 2010 and 2017. Major factors of under-representation in studies included concerns about the burden of participation on health and time. Women were more likely than men to document caring responsibilities as reasons for not participating in a clinical trial. Current clinical practice guidelines recommending risk stratification to guide the appropriateness of an invasive strategy in the context of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) may not be applicable to women given lack of studies specifically evaluating women using contemporary treatment strategies. In our review, we identify significant limitations in the evidence base for the best care of women with ACS, emphasising the need for well-designed clinical trials specifically recruiting women.
Occurrence and predictors of pericardial effusion requiring invasive treatment following heart valve surgery
Authors: Borregaard Britt , Sibilitz Kirstine Lærum , Weiss Marc Gjern , Ekholm Ola , Lykking Emilie Karense , Nielsen Stine Nørris , Riber Lars Peter , Dahl Jordi Sanchez , Moller Jacob Eifer
Published: January 2022

Objectives

To describe the occurrence of significant pericardial effusion, and to investigate characteristics associated with pericardial effusion within three months following heart valve surgery.

Methods

A retrospective, observational cohort study including adult patients undergoing heart valve surgery at Odense University Hospital from August 2013 to November 2017. Data were gathered from The Western Denmark Heart Registry and electronic patient records.

Cox proportional hazard models were used to investigate the associations between characteristics associated with significant pericardial effusion during index admission and within 3 months. Results are presented as HR with 95% CI.

Results

In total, 1460 patients were included (70% men, median age 71 years (IQR 63–76)) and of those, n=230 patients (16%) developed significant pericardial effusion.

EuroScore II was significantly associated with an increased risk of pericardial effusion during index admission and associated with a lower risk following discharge (index admission HR 1.05, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.08, after discharge HR 0.80, 95% CI 0.69 to 0.92). Increasing age (HR 0.97, 95% CI 0.95 to 0.98 per year) and concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting versus isolated valve surgery (HR 0.58, 95% CI 0.35 to 0.97) were significantly associated with a reduced risk of pericardial effusions in both periods. Being a man (HR 2.30, 95% CI 1.32 to 4.01) and aortic valve disease versus mitral valve disease (HR 2.16, 95% CI 1.20 to 3.90) were significantly associated with an increased risk after discharge.

Conclusion

Significant pericardial effusions requiring drainage were present in 16% of cases following heart valve surgery, and different clinical characteristics were associated with the development of effusion.
Thermally Induced Formation of Etch Pits on Ge Surfaces under Conditions of CVD Graphene Growth
Authors: Diallo Thierno Mamoudou , Arvinte Roxana , Aziziyan Mohammad Reza , Arès Richard , Fafard Simon , Boucherif Abderraouf
Published: January 2022

Pit-like defects formed on Ge(001) and Ge(111) substrates during annealing under CVD conditions for graphene growth have been investigated. The changes in morphology and density of pits were found to be dependent on the annealing temperature as well as the substrate orientation. The shape of pits was similar to the ones observed under chemical etching process. The pits are assessed using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy
Mechanical and Durability Studies on Ficus exasperata Leaf Ash Concrete
Authors: Elango K. S. , Prabu B. , Sathish S. , Karthick Alagar , Sampathkumar V. , Kumar Sanjeev , Mohanavel V. , Ravichandran M. , Muhibbullah M. , Osman Sameh M.
Published: January 2022

This paper reports the effect of snake grass (SG) fibers in Ficus exasperata Leaf Ash (FELA) concrete. Snake grass fibers of percentages 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 were used in this investigation. Tests of compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength and durability studies of salt resistance, sulphate resistance, and impact energy resistance were determined, and the test results are discussed in detail. Test results revealed that FELA ash of 15% replacement in cement showed remarkable binding property. Moreover, incorporation of snake grass fiber in concrete improves the strength, postcracking resistance, and energy absorption. It is also observed that 1.5% snake grass fiber incorporation in concrete exhibited better strength properties and energy absorption property than 0.5% and 1%. Also, beyond 1.5%, there is significant reduction in workability property. Regardless of durability property, the mix containing 1.5% snake grass fiber has shown better resistance against durability when compared with other mixes. It is also observed that penetration of chloride and sulphate ions made slight deterioration at sharp edges. Moreover, test results revealed that applications of FELA concrete with snake grass fiber can be effectively expanded in the construction industry.
Early Detection of Cognitive Decline Using Machine Learning Algorithm and Cognitive Ability Test
Authors: Revathi A. , Kaladevi R. , Ramana Kadiyala , Jhaveri Rutvij H. , Rudra Kumar Madapuri , Sankara Prasanna Kumar M.
Published: January 2022

Elderly people are the assets of the country and the government can ensure their peaceful and healthier life. Life expectancy of individuals has expanded with technological advancements and survey tells that the elderly population will become double in the year 2030. The noninfectious cognitive dysfunction is the most important risk factor among elderly people due to a decline in their physiological function. Alzheimer, Vascular Dementia, and Dementia are the key reasons for cognitive inabilities. These diseases require manual assistance, which is difficult to provide in this fast-growing world. Prevention and early detection are the wise solution for the above diseases. Diabetes and hypertension are considered as main risk factors allied with Alzheimer's disease. Our proposed work applies a two-stage classification technique to improve prediction accuracy. In the first stage, we train a Support vector machine and a Random Forest algorithm to analyze the influence of diabetes and high blood pressure on cognitive decline. In the second stage, the cognitive function of the person with the possibility of Dementia is assessed using the neuropsychological test called Cognitive Ability Test (CAT). Multinomial Logistic Regression algorithm is applied to CAT results to predict the possibility of cognitive decline in their postlife. We classified the risk factor using the operational definitions: “No Alzheimer’s,” “Uncertain Alzheimer’s,” and “Definite Alzheimer’s”. SVM of stage 1 classifier predicts with an accuracy of 0.86 and Random Forest with an accuracy of 0.71. Multinomial Logistic algorithm of stage 2 classifier accuracy is 0.89. The proposed work enables early prediction of a person at risk of Alzheimer's Disease using clinical data.
Reduced Effective Oxygen Delivery and Ventilation with a Surgical Facemask Placed under Compared to over an Oxygen Mask: A Comparative Study
Authors: Chang Marvin G. , Sakano Takashi , Levin Benjamin S. , Convissar David , Bittner Edward A.
Published: January 2022

Objectives. Consensus guidelines for perioperative anesthesia management during the COVID-19 pandemic recommend that patients wear a facemask in addition to their oxygen mask or nasal cannulae following tracheal extubation, where this is practical. The effects on effective oxygen delivery and ventilation of a surgical facemask under compared to over an oxygen (O2) mask are unclear. Design. Single-center, comparative pilot study. Setting. Endoscopy procedure room at a major academic hospital. Subjects. Five healthy anesthesiologists. Interventions. Using a carbon dioxide (CO2) sampling line positioned at the lips, the fraction of inspired O2 (FiO2), fraction of expiratory O2 (FeO2), expiratory end-tidal CO2 (EtCO2), and respiratory rate (RR) were measured under the following conditions: (1) a surgical facemask only, (2) a surgical facemask under an O2 mask, (3) an O2 mask only, and (4) a surgical facemask over an O2 mask. Measurements and Main Results. The sampled fractional expired oxygen (FeO2) at the lips was significantly lower when the surgical facemask was under compared to when over the O2 mask (27.9± 1.68 vs. 49.9 ± 6.27,

p
=
0.001

), while there was no significant difference in inspired oxygen (FiO2). The sampled expiratory EtCO2 was significantly higher when the surgical facemask was under the O2 mask compared to when over the O2 mask (28.3 ± 8.5 vs. 23.5 ± 7.6,

p
=
0.026

). The RR was not significantly different when the surgical facemask was under compared to over the O2 mask. Conclusions. Effective oxygen delivery and ventilation was reduced (lower FeO2 and increased EtCO2) when a surgical facemask was placed under compared to over an O2 mask.
Plasmapheresis for Pembrolizumab-Induced Hepatitis in a Patient with Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Prior Orthotopic Liver Transplantation
Authors: Al-Nattah Sanaa , Lata Sharma Kusum , Caldis Matthew , Spengler Erin , Rose William N.
Published: January 2022

Checkpoint inhibitor therapy with monoclonal antibodies against programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1) has been implemented in the treatment of numerous malignancies. Pembrolizumab is one such medication. While severe toxicities are very rare, mild immune-mediated reactions with a variety of end organ injuries are among the most commonly encountered adverse events attributed to these medications. Acute liver injury manifesting as biochemical abnormalities with or without synthetic dysfunction is one such potential adverse reaction. Rarely, a relatively severe hepatitis can occur. While such severe adverse events are often successfully managed with systemic corticosteroids and drug discontinuation, our patient was refractory to standard management. We present a case of pembrolizumab-induced hepatitis in a patient with squamous cell carcinoma and prior orthotopic liver transplantation. Through a combination of serial plasmapheresis and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) infusion, the patient’s hepatitis resolved as evidenced by virtual normalization of his liver indices. This illustrates the effectiveness of a relatively novel treatment strategy for this rare side effect of checkpoint inhibitor antineoplastic therapy.
Metabolic Understanding of the Genetic Dysregulation in the Tumor Microenvironment of Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Xie Junwei , Cui Lingang , Pan Shaokang , Liu Dongwei , Liu Fengxun , Liu Zhangsuo
Published: January 2022

The metabolic dysregulation is a hallmark of cancers including KIRC, specifically caused by alterations in metabolic genes. Currently, a lack of consensus exists between metabolic signatures in the tumor microenvironment. Here, in this study, we observed the significant correlations of differentially expressed metabolic genes (DEmGs) between KIRC and the related normal samples. Briefly, we collected sets of metabolic genes through RNA-seq data of KIRC and normal tissues from TCGA, followed by the identification of KIRC-related DEmGs. Next, patients were classified into three clusters, and using WGCNA, we identified metabolic genes involved in the survival among different clusters. Furthermore, we investigated survival and clinical parameters along with immune infiltration in the clusters. At the same time, we constructed and validated a prediction model based on these DEmGs. These analyses revealed that the patients having high expression of DEmGs showed poor survival, while infiltration of less-immune cells was associated with the metastasis of KIRC. In the end, we identified NUDT1 as a hub gene as it showed significantly high expression in KIRC samples as well as associated with the survival and prognosis of the patients. Further analysis revealed the oncogenic role of NUDT1 in 786-O and ACHN cells. Thus, we conclude that NUDT1 could be a potential diagnostic and prognostic marker for KIRC.
Serum Calprotectin Level as an Inflammatory Marker in Newly Diagnosed Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Bayrakci Nergiz , Ozkan Gülsüm , Kara Sonat Pinar , Yilmaz Ahsen , Guzel Savas
Published: January 2022

Background. Hypertension is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular mortality. Although the pathogenetic process involved is not yet fully understood, the disease involves endothelial damage and inflammation. Calprotectin is an inflammatory marker that rises in parallel with disease activity in conditions such as systemic inflammatory diseases, infection, and atherosclerosis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate inflammation through serum calprotectin levels in newly diagnosed primary hypertension patients. Methods. Forty-nine newly diagnosed hypertensive patients and 38 healthy adults were included in the study. Patients’ office blood pressure values, biochemical findings, and demographic characteristics were recorded. Serum calprotectin levels were measured using ELISA. Parameters affecting serum calprotectin levels and determinants of hypertension were evaluated. Results. Serum calprotectin levels were 242.8 (72.4–524) ng/mL in the control group and 112.6 (67.4–389.8) ng/mL in the hypertensive patient group, the difference being statistically significant (p=0.001). There was no correlation between serum calprotectin levels and other parameters (blood pressure values, age, gender, serum creatinine, uric acid, and calcium levels) in the hypertensive group. A lower serum calprotectin level was found to be independently related to hypertension (β = −0.009,p=0.005). Serum calprotectin at a cutoff level of 128.6 ng/mL differentiated hypertensives from healthy controls with a sensitivity of 69.4% and specificity of 68.4% (AUC = 0.767). Conclusions. The results of this study were the opposite of our hypothesis that a higher calprotectin level may reflect subclinical endothelial damage in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients. Further comparative studies involving patients at different stages of hypertension may contribute to clarifying the relationship between calprotectin and hypertension. We conclude that molecular studies seem essential for understanding the place of calprotectin in hypertension-associated inflammation, a complex process.
Fabrication of MnO2 Nanocomposite on GO Functionalized with Advanced Electrode Material for Supercapacitors
Authors: Kumar R. Ranjith , Thanigaivel S. , Priya A. K. , Karthick Alagar , Malla Chandrabhanu , Jayaraman P. , Muhibbullah M. , Alshgari Razan A. , Karami Abdulnasser Mahmoud
Published: January 2022

A new strategy for supercapacitor formation was carried out in the study using electrodes made of graphene oxide (GO) and manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanocomposites. To the present knowledge, only a few investigations have been carried out concerning the synthesis of GO‐MnO2‐based nanocomposites and their electrochemical properties, with varying mass ratios, as well as the change in electrochemical properties of their components as MnO2 and GO were tested individually for the enhanced stability and performances. A synthetic method was performed successfully to manufacture MnO2/GO nanocomposites. The findings of the present study show that the composites have a lot of potential as an effective conduction property. A composite of graphene oxide supported manganese dioxide nanocomposites fabricated with the simple soft chemical route. As‐prepared nanocomposites can be improved in performance by the interactions between GO and MnO2.
Persisting Effects of a Social Media Campaign to Prevent Indoor Tanning: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Buller David B. , Pagoto Sherry , Henry Kimberly L. , Baker Katie , Walkosz Barbara J. , Hillhouse Joel , Berteletti Julia , Bibeau Jessica , Kinsey Alishia
Published: January 2022

Background:

A social media campaign for mothers aimed at reducing indoor tanning (IT) by adolescent daughters reduced mothers' permissiveness toward IT in an immediate posttest. Whether the effects persisted at 6 months after the campaign remains to be determined.

Methods:

Mothers (N = 869) of daughters ages 14–17 in 34 states without bans on IT by minors were enrolled in a randomized trial. All mothers received an adolescent health campaign over 12 months with posts on preventing IT (intervention) or prescription drug misuse (control). Mothers completed a follow-up at 18 months post-randomization measuring IT permissiveness, attitudes, intentions, communication, and behavior, and support for state bans. Daughters (n = 469; 54.0%) just completed baseline and follow-up surveys.

Results:

Structural equation modeling showed that intervention-group mothers were less permissive of IT by daughters [unstandardized coefficient, −0.17; 95% confidence interval (CI), −0.31 to −0.03], had greater self-efficacy to refuse daughter's IT requests (0.17; 95% CI, 0.06–0.29) and lower IT intentions themselves (−0.18; 95% CI, −0.35 to −0.01), and were more supportive of bans on IT by minors (0.23; 95% CI, 0.02–0.43) than control-group mothers. Intervention-group daughters expressed less positive IT attitudes than controls (−0.16; 95% CI, 0.31 to −0.01).

Conclusions:

The social media campaign may have had a persisting effect of convincing mothers to withhold permission for daughters to indoor tan for 6 months after its conclusion. Reduced IT intentions and increased support for bans on IT by minors also persisted among mothers.

Impact:

Social media may increase support among mothers to place more restrictions on IT by minors.