bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correspondence between alcohol use measured by a wrist‐worn alcohol biosensor and self‐report via ecological momentary assessment over a 2‐week period
Authors: Richards Veronica L. , Barnett Nancy P. , Cook Robert L. , Leeman Robert F. , Souza Timothy , Case Stuart , Prins Cindy , Cook Christa , Wang Yan
Published: December 2022

Background

Transdermal alcohol biosensors measure alcohol use continuously, passively, and non‐invasively. There is little field research on the Skyn biosensor, a new‐generation, wrist‐worn transdermal alcohol biosensor, and little evaluation of its sensitivity and specificity and the day‐level correspondence between transdermal alcohol concentration (TAC) and number of self‐reported drinks.

Methods

Participants (N = 36; 61% male, M
age = 34.3) wore the Skyn biosensor and completed ecological momentary assessment (EMA) surveys about their alcohol use over 2 weeks. A total of 497 days of biosensor and EMA data were collected. Skyn‐measured drinking episodes were defined by TAC > 5 μg/L. Skyn data were compared to self‐reported drinking to calculate sensitivity and specificity (for drinking day vs. nondrinking day). Generalized estimating equations models were used to evaluate the correspondence between TAC features (peak TAC and TAC‐area under the curve (AUC)) and number of drinks. Individual‐level factors (sex, age, race/ethnicity, body mass index, human immunodeficiency virus status, and hazardous drinking) were examined to explore associations with TAC controlling for number of drinks.

Results

Using a minimum TAC threshold of 5 μg/L plus coder review, the biosensor had sensitivity of 54.7% and specificity of 94.6% for distinguishing drinking from nondrinking days. Without coder review, the sensitivity was 78.1% and the specificity was 55.2%. Peak TAC (β = 0.92, p < 0.0001) and TAC‐AUC (β = 1.60, p < 0.0001) were significantly associated with number of drinks. Females had significantly higher TAC levels than males for the same number of drinks.

Conclusions

Skyn‐derived TAC can be used to measure alcohol use under naturalistic drinking conditions, additional research is needed to accurately identify drinking episodes based on Skyn TAC readings.
Obsessive‐compulsive disorder in Chinese methamphetamine patients: Prevalence, demographics, and clinical characteristics
Authors: Liu Siying , Wan Jiaxue , Liang Qilin , Tian Yang , Fan Fusheng , Chen Jiajing , Fu Fabing , Zhu Rongrong , Wei Dejun , Li Yuqing , Tang Shanshan , Wang Dongmei , Cui Lixia , Zhang Xiangyang
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives

Methamphetamine (MA) is one of the most common addictive substances and has become the second most commonly used drug worldwide. Obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) has been shown to influence the effectiveness of addiction treatment, and there may be overlapping neurobiological mechanisms between OCD and addiction. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and clinical correlates of OCD among MA patients.

Methods

A total of 457 MA patients were recruited, and clinical and demographic data were collected. The Yale‐Brown Obsessive‐Compulsive Scale was utilized for OCD symptoms, and the Obsessive‐Compulsive Drug Use Scale was used for MA craving.

Results

The prevalence of OCD among MA patients was 7.7%. Compared to those patients without OCD, patients with OCD had a longer length of abstinence and higher OCDUS frequency of craving subscale and total scores. Multiple regression showed that longer length of abstinence and higher MA carving were independently associated with OCD in MA patients.

Discussion and Conclusions

Chinese Han MA patients have a high prevalence of OCD. Some clinical parameters may be associated with OCD in MA patients.

Scientific Significance

This is the first study to examine the prevalence, sociodemographic and clinical correlates of OCD in MA patients in a Chinese Han population.
Polygynandry and high genetic diversity supported by kinship and population genetics from neotropical catfish ichthyoplankton
Authors: Frantine‐Silva Wilson , Savada Camila Satie , de Almeida Fernanda Simões , Orsi Mário Luís
Published: December 2022

Knowledge about reproductive biology is critical for understanding species ecology and evolution, hence their conservation. However, such information remains elusive for many species due to the difficulty of observing mating in nature. Herein, we coupled population and sociogenetic analysis to assess the reproductive biology of an important South American catfish, the “painted catfish” Pimelodus maculatus. We analysed the genetic diversity and kinship patterns of three wild ichthyoplankton samples identified by DNA barcoding and screened with microsatellite loci. We found the same trend in the three samples analysed: a high number unrelated larvae (r < 0.25) and potential parents involved (Ca1, 24♀:24♂; Ca2, 21♀:23♂; Cin, 24♀:25♂), as well as a high number of familial clusters (ML: 19‐21; MCMC: 23‐26). The data indicate a parental sexual proportion close to 1:1 and a polygynandrous mating system. We found high levels of genetic diversity, low GST values (GST < 0.014), but moderate DEST values between the tributary and reservoir samples (DEST > 0.25; Cin x Ca1 or Cin x Ca2), a similar pattern to the observed in adult populations. These results indicate that the mating system of P. maculatus has played an important role in minimising the loss of genetic diversity, a condition that may have favoured the species in a highly fragmented landscape.
Complex patterns shape immune genes diversity during invasion of common raccoon in Europe – Selection in action despite genetic drift
Authors: Konopiński Maciej K. , Fijarczyk Anna M. , Biedrzycka Aleksandra
Published: December 2022

Rapid adaptation is common in invasive populations and is crucial to their long‐term success. The primary target of selection in the invasive species' new range is standing genetic variation. Therefore, genetic drift and natural selection acting on existing variation are key evolutionary processes through which invaders will evolve over a short timescale. In this study, we used the case of the raccoon Procyon lotor invasion in Europe to identify the forces shaping the diversity of immune genes during invasion. The genes involved in the defence against infection should be under intense selection pressure in the invasive range where novel pathogens are expected to occur. To disentangle the selective and demographic processes shaping the adaptive immune diversity of its invasive and expanding populations, we have developed species‐specific single‐nucleotide polymorphism markers located in the coding regions of targeted immune‐related genes. We characterised the genetic diversity of 110 functionally important immune genes in two invasive and one native raccoon genetic clusters, each presenting a different demographic history. Despite the strong effect of demographic processes in the invasive clusters, we detected a subset of genes exhibiting the diversity pattern suggestive of selection. The most likely process shaping the variation in those genes was balancing selection. The selected genes belong to toll‐like receptors and cytokine‐related genes. Our results suggest that the prevalence of selection depends on the level of diversity, that is – less genetically diverse invasive population from the Czech Republic displayed fewer signs of selection. Our results highlight the role of standing genetic variation in adapting to new environment. Understanding the evolutionary mechanisms behind invasion success would enable predicting how populations may respond to environmental change.
Ecological value of gravel pit ponds for floodplain wetland fish
Authors: Nakahashi Honoka , Yamada Taihei , Ishiyama Nobuo , Nakamura Futoshi
Published: December 2022

Floodplain wetlands support high biodiversity, but they have been degraded and geographically fragmented due to human activities. Some types of human‐created waterbodies have received growing attention as alternative habitats for conserving wetland biodiversity. Gravel pit ponds (GPPs) are human‐created wetlands formed when a gravel pit is excavated at or below the water table and filled with groundwater. Differences in community structure among GPPs and floodplain wetlands with respect to habitat characteristics are scarcely known, resulting in insufficient evaluations of the ecological value of GPPs for floodplain wetland species. In this study, we evaluated the ecological value of GPPs for wetland fishes in floodplain landscapes.

We surveyed fish abundance, community composition, and 10 environmental factors in GPPs and two types of floodplain ponds (remnant ponds and river backwaters) to clarify the biotic and abiotic differences among the pond types.

Environmental factors were similar among the pond types, with only water temperature and the distance from the main channel to the pond significantly lower in river backwaters. The richness and abundance of native fish species did not differ among the pond types, but species composition did. Rhynchocypris percnura sachalinensis, Carassius sp., and Lethenteron sp. N (one of the two cryptic species of Lethenteron reissneri) were selected as indicator species in GPPs, remnant ponds, and river backwaters, respectively.

These results indicate that GPPs provide valuable habitats for wetland fishes in floodplain landscapes and support regional γ diversity. Since many species inhabited the GPPs in this study, including red list species, appropriate management of GPPs is important to conserve wetland fishes.
Promoting vegetation coverage using fertilization treatments in abandoned farmland in Mongolia
Authors: Takahashi Kengo , Kawada Kiyokazu , Tseden–Ish Narangerel , Jamsran Undarmaa
Published: December 2022

We investigated the changes in vegetation responses following fertilization in abandoned farmland in Mongolia. Nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium were sprayed alone or in combination on abandoned farmland on a typical steppe in Mongolia, and changes in soil nutrients, species composition and vegetation cover were investigated. Abandoned farmland had lower vegetation cover and soil N and P levels than natural grassland. Phosphorus fertilization significantly affected soil phosphate levels. Nitrogen fertilization in abandoned farmland effectively increased vegetation cover. Moreover, combined N and P fertilization increased plant cover over either element alone, possibly via improved uptake of nitrate ions and the promotion of growth. The effect of increasing cover following fertilization was primarily observed in the genus Artemisia. These results suggest that fertilization of abandoned farmland might not contribute to a return to natural steppe vegetation but rather increase the vegetation cover of annual forbs such as field weeds. Species composition did not appear to be affected by fertilization. This speaks to the difficulty of promoting species regeneration in abandoned farmland using fertilization alone. However, combining fertilization with the introduction of native plant material, e.g., seed sowing, may be beneficial in early restoration treatments, given the promotion of plant growth via fertilization and the importance of reducing wind erosion via the establishment of ground cover.
Caring masculinities among working‐class men in blue‐collar occupations in the UK: Understanding biographies of care
Authors: Elliott Karla , Roberts Steven
Published: December 2022

Research considering men, boys, and the concept of caring masculinities has proliferated in the last five years, although attention has predominantly been given to privileged men's practices of care in the private realm. In this article, we explore caring masculinities among working‐class men in the United Kingdom employed in blue‐collar work, highlighting the possibilities for transformation and change stemming from men in the margins. Drawing on narrative biographical interviews, we analyze in‐depth case studies from two men. Their biographies illustrate practices and an ethos of care interwoven throughout both paid‐work and other aspects of their lives, drawing attention to how caring dispositions are formed through histories of care throughout the lifecourse for working‐class men. We also consider how care can circulate in workplaces that have been considered “low on care”, and how these men draw on working‐class values of care and solidarity to challenge logics of capital at work.
Participation in God's Love: Revisiting John Milbank's ‘Out‐Narration’ in the Light of Jean‐Louis Chrétien and the Song of Songs
Authors: Shamel Andrew T.
Published: December 2022

In this essay, I interrogate the nature and grounds of Milbank's understanding of taste as it applies to differing mythic sensibilities, arguing that it is insufficiently responsive to the priority of God's action and so inadequate to a Christian theological account of the interplay of mythoi. By reading Milbank in light of The Song of Songs and Jean‐Louis Chrétien's phenomenology of prayer, I suggest that rather than the subject embracing a mythos, it is instead the mythos which first embraces the subject. Thus one no longer requires recourse to the implicitly violent language of ‘out‐narration’, but can speak instead of willing seduction by God. By approaching taste in this way, especially in relation to ‘mythic sensibilities’, a more truly Christian approach to difference becomes possible.
Surgical site infections in thyroid and parathyroid surgery in Japan: An analysis of the Japan Nosocomial Infections Surveillance database from 2013 to 2020
Authors: Iwatani Tsuguo , Saito Shinya
Published: December 2022

Surgical site infections (SSIs) after thyroid surgery are rare complications, with incidence rates of 0.3%–1.6%. Using a Japanese database, we conducted exploratory analyses on the incidence of SSIs, investigated the incidence of SSIs by the National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance risk index, and identified the causative bacteria of SSIs. SSIs occurred in 50 (0.7%) of 7388 thyroid surgery cases. Risk index‐0 patients had the lowest incidence rate of SSIs (0.41%). The incidence of SSIs in risk index‐1 patients was 3.05 times the incidence of SSIs in risk index‐0 patients. The rate of SSI occurrence for risk index‐2 patients was 4.22 times the rate of SSI occurrence for risk index‐0 patients. Thirty‐one bacterial species were identified as the cause of SSIs in thyroid surgery cases, of which 12 (38.7%) SSIs were caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Of the nine SSIs caused by Staphylococcus aureus, 55.6% (five cases) were attributed to methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Therefore, routine prophylactic antibiotic administration should be avoided, while the target for administration should be narrowed, according to the SSI risk. Administration of prophylactic antibiotics, such as 2 g piperacillin or 1 g cefazolin, is considered appropriate.
Epidemiology of epizootic ulcerative syndrome (EUS) in fish in the main water bodies of the Kavango–Zambezi and Great Limpopo transfrontier conservation areas of Zimbabwe
Authors: Sibanda Sitokozile , Pfukenyi Davies M. , Hang'ombe Bernard , Matope Gift
Published: December 2022

A three‐year study investigated the epidemiology of epizootic ulcerative syndrome (EUS) in fish from Kavango–Zambezi (KAZA) and Great Limpopo (GL) transfrontier conservation areas of Zimbabwe. A total of 38 sites comprising 27 wild fisheries and 11 aquacultures, from Mashonaland West, Matabeleland North and South, and Midlands were selected. Of the 27 wild fisheries, EUS‐positive fish were detected from 9 (33.3%) and none from the 11 aquacultures. No positive cases were detected from Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) from both aquacultures and wild fisheries. A total of 9.9% (239/2423) fish from the nine positive fisheries had typical EUS lesions, and infection was confirmed in 15 species. Prevalence was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in KAZA (11.5%; 95% CI: 9.6–13.4) compared with GL (8.6%; 95% CI: 7.1–10.1). The most affected were Clarias, followed by Barbus and Oreochromis species. Most cases (>80%) were reported in winter when ambient temperature was low. Further studies are required to determine water parameters associated with EUS outbreaks. These results suggested that the African sharptooth catfish (Clarias gariepinus) could be used potentially as an indicator species for EUS surveillance programmes. Thus, implementation of surveillance and biosecurity programmes that take into consideration the epidemiology of EUS will be beneficial.
Multiple sclerosis iron rim lesions are linked to impaired cervical spinal cord integrity using the T1/T2‐weighted ratio
Authors: Wenzel Nicolas , Wittayer Matthias , Weber Claudia E. , Platten Michael , Gass Achim , Eisele Philipp
Published: December 2022

Background and Purpose

In multiple sclerosis (MS), iron rim lesions (IRLs) are characterized by pronounced tissue matrix damage. The T1/T2‐weighted (T1/T2w) ratio represents a postprocessing MRI approach to investigate tissue integrity, but studies investigating spinal cord pathology are missing until now. The aim of this study was to characterize tissue integrity using the T1/T2w ratio in lesions and the normal‐appearing white and gray matter (NAWM, NAGM) in the spinal cord and brain in MS patients with and without brain IRLs.

Methods

Forty MS patients (20 patients with at least one brain IRL and 20 age‐ and sex‐matched patients without IRLs) were included. Normalized cross‐sectional area (nCSA) of the upper cervical cord was calculated in addition to T1/T2w values and standard brain and spinal cord MRI parameters.

Results

Patients with IRLs had higher disability scores, a smaller nCSA, and a higher cervical T2 lesion volume. T1/T2w values of brain IRLs were significantly lower compared to non‐IRLs (p < .001). Furthermore, T1/T2w values of lesions were significantly lower compared to the NAGM and NAWM, both in the brain and the spinal cord (p < .05 for all comparisons). T1/T2w values of the NAGM and NAWM in the brain and spinal cord did not statistically differ between the IRL group and the non‐IRL group.

Conclusion

IRLs constitute an imaging marker of disease severity. T1/T2w ratio maps represent an interesting technique to capture diffuse tissue properties. Calculation of T1/T2w ratio maps of the spinal cord might provide additional insights into the pathophysiological processes of MS.
Analysis of KRAS, BRAF, and EGFR mutational status in respiratory epithelial adenomatoid hamartoma (REAH)
Authors: Guimarães Letícia Martins , Vieira Tamara da Silva , De Marco Luiz Armando , Thompson Lester D. R. , Gomes Carolina Cavalieri
Published: December 2022

Background

Respiratory epithelial adenomatoid hamartoma (REAH) is a sinonasal glandular overgrowth arising from the surface respiratory epithelium and invaginating into the stroma. Clinically, it appears as a polypoid mass that may cause nasal obstruction, anosmia, and epistaxis. The presence of cartilaginous and/or osseous areas move the lesion to a chondro‐osseous respiratory epithelial (CORE) hamartoma subtype. Scattered small seromucinous glands may be observed between typical REAH glands and when it is the only feature, it represents seromucinous hamartoma (SH). The molecular pathogenesis of REAH has been poorly explored and remains unclear. Given that KRAS, BRAF, and EGFR mutations have been detected in a variety of sinonasal tumors, we aimed to assess these mutations in REAH and SH.

Methods

Ten REAH (including one CORE subtype), in addition to two SH cases, were Sanger sequenced by standard techniques. The targeted regions included KRAS exons 2–4 (encompassing hotspots codons 12, 13, 61, and 146), BRAF exons 11 and 15 (spanning the V600 codon), and EGFR exons 19 and 20.

Results

All REAH and SH samples showed wild‐type sequences for KRAS, BRAF, and EGFR genes.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate a lack of KRAS, BRAF, or EGFR pathogenic variants with further evaluation of REAH and SH needed to elucidate driver genetic events.
Clinicopathological and survival profile of patients with salivary gland myoepithelial carcinoma: A systematic review
Authors: Lavareze Luccas , Scarini João Figueira , de Lima‐Souza Reydson Alcides , Kimura Talita de Carvalho , Gondak Rogério de Oliveira , Egal Erika Said Abu , Altemani Albina , Mariano Fernanda Viviane
Published: December 2022

Objectives

In this systematic review, we aimed to evaluate the clinicopathological and prognosis data of patients with salivary gland myoepithelial carcinoma.

Materials and Methods

MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and Embase search was performed with the keywords “myoepithelial carcinoma” “malignant myoepithelioma,” and “salivary glands.” Primary salivary glands myoepithelial carcinoma that fulfilled the World Health Organization diagnostic criteria were included. The Joanna Briggs Institute tool was used to assess the risk of bias.

Results

Forty‐three studies (71 patients) met the inclusion criteria. The patients showed a mean age of 56.4 ± 19.6 years with no sex predilection. The parotid was the most affected gland (49.3%). The tumor presented as an asymptomatic (65.1%) mass (84%). The most common histological findings were the presence of clear tumor cells (39.7%) and multinodular growth patterns (60.7%). Multivariate analysis showed plasmacytoid cell type (p = 0.010) and solid growth pattern (p = 0.003) were related to decreased disease‐free survival. Surgery alone was the most used treatment (53.5%). Patients with a combination of treatments showed a longer disease‐free survival (p = 0.049). The 2‐year and 5‐year overall survival rates were 67.5% and 46.1%, respectively.

Conclusion

Salivary gland myoepithelial carcinoma showed no sex predilection, with a higher incidence in the parotid gland. Cell type, growth pattern, and treatment type may be related to a lower disease‐free survival. Overall, salivary gland myoepithelial carcinoma presented low recurrence and metastasis rates.

Registration and protocol: This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 checklist and registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) database (CRD42022311512).
The Politicalvs. the Theological: The Scope of Secularity in Arendtian Forgiveness
Authors: Lee Shinkyu
Published: December 2022

The conventional interpretation of Hannah Arendt's accounts of forgiveness considers them secularistic. The secular features of her thinking that resist grounding the act of forgiving in divine criteria offer a good corrective to religious forgiveness that fosters depoliticization. Arendt's vision of free politics, however, calls for much more nuance and complexity regarding the secular and the religious in realizing forgiveness for transitional politics than the secularist rendition of her thinking allows. After identifying an area of ambiguity in Arendt's thoughts that invites further investigation of religious forgiveness, this study seeks to relieve her misgivings about religion's role in politics by engaging with Dietrich Bonhoeffer's theology, which emphasizes worldliness and altruism in religious faith. Through constructive engagements with both thinkers, the article presents a balanced Arendtian position that is neither solely secularist nor complacent about religion in politics.
Age‐specific effect of transurethral holmium laser enucleation of the prostate on overactive bladder in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia: An investigation using an overactive bladder symptom score
Authors: Takeuchi Yasuharu , Sawada Yoshitomo , Watanabe Shoutarou , Ni‐itsu Yasuo , Sekido Noritoshi
Published: December 2022

Objectives

To investigate the age‐specific effect of transurethral holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) on overactive bladder (OAB).

Methods

A total of 186 consecutive patients who underwent HoLEP were included. They were divided into three groups: patients aged less than 65 years, between 65 and 74, and 75 or older. The OAB symptom score as well as other relevant variables of lower urinary tract symptoms and function were assessed before and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. Age‐specific prevalence of OAB, the proportion of resolution of OAB, and de novo OAB were evaluated.

Results

The mean age of patients was 70.7 years, and the mean total prostate volume was 75.8 ml. The mean OAB symptom scores before surgery of patients aged less than 65 years, between 65 and 74, and 75 or older were 6.0, 5.2, and 5.7, respectively. At 12 months after surgery, the scores for the respective groups had significantly decreased to 2.1, 2.5, and 3.5. The prevalence of OAB based on the score in the respective groups was 45.8%, 56.9%, and 54.0% (p = .6391) preoperatively and 9.1%, 11.3%, and 15.8% at 12 months after the surgery (p = .7613). Of those with preoperative OAB, 75.0%, 79.2%, and 75.0% of the respective groups showed resolution of OAB at 12 months postoperatively (p = .9427).

Conclusions

In candidates for surgical deobstruction of benign prostatic hyperplasia, HoLEP has potential to improve OAB symptoms regardless of age.
Dual therapy with Erenumab and onabotulinumtoxinA: No synergistic effect in chronic migraine: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Jaimes Alex , Gómez Andrea , Pajares Olga , Rodríguez‐Vico Jaime
Published: December 2022

Objective

To assess whether dual therapy with erenumab and onabotulinumtoxinA (BoNTA) was more effective than erenumab alone in chronic migraine.

Background

Calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) is crucial in migraine. Erenumab binds to the canonical CGRP receptor in Aδ‐fibers, and BoNTA prevents the release of CGRP from meningeal and extracranial C‐fibers. It is still unknown whether dual therapy is more effective.

Methods

This was a retrospective study in a Headache Unit. There was a thorough revision of charts of patients receiving erenumab from December 2019 to March 2021. The cohort was divided into three groups according to BoNTA at the start of erenumab: (1) WBT: were on BoNTA and maintained it as dual therapy; (2) WoBT: were on BoNTA and discontinued; (3) NoBT: were not on BoNTA. Primary endpoint was reduction in monthly headache days (MHD) at 12 weeks. Secondary endpoints were percent improvement and ≥50% reduction in MHD.

Results

Of 237 charts reviewed, 187 met the inclusion criteria. Seventy‐three (39%) were included in WBT, 44 (23.5%) in WoBT, and 70 (37.4%) in NoBT. The reduction in MHD was less with dual therapy [WBT 4.7 ± 7.68, WoBT 5.12 ± 7.98 (p = 0.80), NoBT 8.21 ± 7.84 p = 0.009]. The percentage of improvement was higher in the erenumab‐alone group [NoBT 35%, WoBT 22.3% (p = 0.92), WBT 21.7% (p = 0.001)]. The probability of achieving a ≥ 50% reduction in MHD was lower in WBT than in WoBT (OR 0.66, p = 0.35) and in the NoBT group (OR 0.57, p = 0.14).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that dual therapy is less effective than erenumab alone. However, since the design has multiple limitations, further prospective studies are required to validate these data.
Multiple infections influence the resistance of potato cultivars to late blight and potato cyst nematodes
Authors: Andrivon Didier , Bouchek‐Mechiche Karima , Boulard Frédéric , Le Boulch Pauline , Fournet Sylvain , Fouville Didier , Glais Laurent , Hervet Marie , Kerlan Marie‐Claire , Mabon Romain , Martin Rafaela Lopes , Pasco Claudine , Pellé Roland , Val Florence , Montarry Josselin
Published: December 2022

Each season, crops face simultaneous or successive multiple infections. Yet cultivar resistance is often bred against one pest at a time, and screened under single infections. This raises the question of resistance expression bred under mono‐infections when exposed to multiple infections. We tackled this question by measuring the level of quantitative resistance of potato cultivars to either Globodera pallida or Phytophthora infestans under single or multiple infections, using potato virus Y (PVY) or Rhizoctonia solani as the co‐infector. Overall, co‐infection resulted in less multiplication of the target pathogen compared to single infection, although this reduction did not always reach statistical significance. A preliminary assessment of defence gene expression in plants infected with P. infestans alone or together with PVY or R. solani suggested that P. infestans repressed defence genes previously triggered by PVY, but boosted the expression of these genes when primed by R. solani. Together, these data support the view that resistance expression is impacted by co‐infection, and that it should be screened under multiple infection situations to be best assessed and exploited as a component of Integrated Pest Management strategies.
Burden of neutropenia and leukopenia among adult kidney transplant recipients: A systematic literature review of observational studies
Authors: Raval Amit D. , Kistler Kristin D. , Tang Yuexin , Vincenti Flavio
Published: December 2022

Background

Leukopenia and neutropenia (L/N) may affect treatment decisions, potentially resulting in poor clinical and economic outcomes among kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). The burden of L/N is poorly quantified systematically. This systematic literature review aimed to summarize the incidence of, risk factors for, and clinical and economic outcomes associated with L/N post‐KT.

Methods

We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library (from database inception‐June 14, 2021) and conferences (past 3 years) to identify observational studies examining epidemiology, risk factors, or outcomes associated with L/N among adult KTRs.

Results

Of 2081 records, 82 studies met inclusion criteria. Seventy‐three studies reported the epidemiology of L/N post‐KT. Pooled incidence of neutropenia, defined as absolute neutrophil counts (ANC) <1000/μl, ranged from 13% to 48% within 1‐year post‐transplant; ANC <500/μl ranged from 15% to 20%. Leukopenia, defined as white blood cell counts <3500/μl, was 19% to 83%. Eleven studies reported independent risk factors associated with L/N post‐KT. D+/R− cytomegalovirus status, mycophenolic acid (MPA), and tacrolimus use were the most consistent risk factors across studies. Fourteen studies reported L/N‐associated clinical outcomes. We noted a trend toward a positive association between neutropenia and acute rejection/opportunistic infections. Mixed findings were noted on the association between L/N and graft failure or mortality. Dosage modifications of valganciclovir, MPA, cotrimoxazole, and anti‐thymoglobulin and the need for granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) use were common with L/N.

Conclusion

Findings suggest post‐transplant L/N were common and associated with frequent modifications of immunosuppressive agents, requiring G‐CSF use, and rejection or opportunistic infections. Findings highlight the need for interventions to reduce risk of L/N post‐KT.

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Persistent marked cerebrospinal fluid eosinophilia in a dog with primary central nervous system histiocytic sarcoma
Authors: Corsini Giulia , Sanchez‐Masian Daniel , Verin Ranieri , Cooper Camilla , Piviani Martina
Published: December 2022

A 6‐year‐old female spayed Jack Russell Terrier was evaluated for episodic seizure‐like activity and intermittent obtundation over the previous 3 weeks. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain revealed mild generalized dilation of the ventricular system with periventricular edema. A focal area of mildly increased lepto‐ and pachymeningeal contrast uptake in the region of the right parietal and occipital lobes was observed. Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) revealed marked mixed pleocytosis with 20% eosinophils and no atypical cells or microorganisms. The dog transiently improved with prednisolone for suspected eosinophilic meningoencephalitis/meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin (MUO) but worsened over the following 5 months. Brain MRI and CSF sampling were repeated. Additional multifocal lesions were evident in the brainstem and cerebellum. On CSF analysis, the eosinophilic pleocytosis and increased total protein persisted. The clinical signs progressed despite treatment, and the patient was euthanized 6 weeks later. A post‐mortem examination was performed. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry revealed a multifocal neoplastic proliferation of cells in the brain, diffusely and strongly positive for ionized calcium‐binding adapter molecule (Iba‐1) and negative for AE1/AE3 pan‐cytokeratin and glial‐fibrillar‐acid‐protein (GFAP) immunostaining, consistent with a diagnosis of histiocytic sarcoma (HS). No other organic lesions were found; therefore, the neoplasm was considered a primary HS of the central nervous system (CNS). This case report stresses the importance of considering primary CNS HS in the differential diagnosis of dogs with marked CSF eosinophilia, even in the absence of atypical cells on cytologic examination.
Assessment of Combustion and Acoustic Characteristics of Scenedesmus dimorphus Blended With Hydrogen Fuel on Internal Combustion Engine
Authors: Shen Tianhao , Wu Yingji , Alahmadi Tahani Awad , Alharbi Sulaiman Ali , Maroušek Josef , Xia Changlei , Praveenkumar T. R.
Published: December 2022

Biodiesel, which may be produced from crops, animal fat, as well as waste products from both industrial and residential sectors, is one of the alternative fuels that are utilized extensively. These biodiesels may either be used on their own or combined with regular diesel. Because biodiesels are becoming increasingly popular as a substitute for fossil fuels, the amount of attention paid to studying them has been growing steadily over the past few years. However, the results on the features of the noise and vibration are still missing, and much more emphasis has to be placed on the study conducted in that particular field. In this study, the combustion, noise, and vibration properties of Scenedesmus dimorphus microalgae biodiesel were investigated both with and without the provision of hydrogen. At the rate of 5 l/min, the supply of hydrogen was made available. Both B10 (10% of Scenedesmus dimorphus microalgae biodiesel and 90% pure diesel) and B20 (20% of Scenedesmus dimorphus microalgae biodiesel and 80% pure diesel) were employed as the biodiesel compositions. In addition, the source of hydrogen was made available for the diesel in its purest form as well as the two biodiesel mixes that remained. The fuels that were obtained consisted of neat microalgae blends containing 0% microalgae B0H5, 10% microalgae B10H5, and 20% microalgae containing B20H5. In this study, the performance of pure diesel was compared to the findings obtained from hydrogen-enriched fuel blends, simple biodiesel blends, and a combination of the two. Each and every experimental test was carried out using a diesel engine with a single-cylinder, water cooling, and four strokes. The tests were carried out with the load varying 25% in-between from 0% to 100%. Based on the findings, it was discovered that increasing the proportion of biodiesel fuel and adding hydrogen to the engine both contributed to a reduction in the amount of vibration and noise that was generated by the vehicle. The combustion qualities were also improved by the mixing of hydrogen and biodiesel as hybrid fuel.
Small-Scale Toroidal Fluidized Bed Gasification System: Development and Experimental Aspects
Authors: Sharma Avdhesh Kr. , Antil Surender , Sachdeva Gulshan
Published: December 2022

This article deals with system development and experimental aspects of a small-scale toroidal fluidized bed gasifier (TFBG) using sawdust feedstock (carpentry waste) with average particle size of 4.18 mm. The reactor and its accessories are designed and constructed. The experiments have been performed to highlight the influence of equivalence ratio on performance parameters (i.e., reaction temperatures, gas yield, gas composition, heating value, and cold gasification efficiency). For variation of equivalence ratio from 0.181 to 0.273 (average basis), the maximum temperature increase from 1015 to 1036 K, combustibles components CO, H2, and CH4 decrease from 16% to 14.9%, 16.3% to 15.3%, and 3.5% to 2.3%, respectively, and consequently, lower heating value (LHV) decreases from 5.454 to 4.716 MJ kg−1. On qualitative basis, the maximum cold gasification efficiency is observed to be 74% at equivalence ratio of 0.273, which is considerably higher than fixed bed gasification for sawdust. The overall uncertainty of experimental data is worked out to be ±3.41% (i.e., ≤5% within 95% confidence level).
Tribological Behaviors and Meshing Efficiency of a Novel Planar Ball Reducer Based on the Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication Theory
Authors: Chen Zhou , Yang Xianmiao , Jiang Yibo , Tong Shuiguang , Tong Zheming
Published: December 2022

A novel planar ball reducer (NPBR) is invented in which the relative velocity of meshing surfaces is reduced to achieve high mechanical efficiency. In order to acquire an accurate quantitative analysis on the efficiency of a ball reducer, thorough comprehension of the reducer’s tribological behavior is required. To this end, the elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) theory, for the first time, is used to reveal the tribological behavior of the planer ball reducer, and the equations of kinematics, EHL model, and theoretical efficiency of the transmission system are derived. The prototype of NPBR is developed, and its experimental efficiency is measured, which agrees well with the theoretical efficiency.
A Surface Skewness and Kurtosis Integrated Stress Concentration Factor Model
Authors: Gu Huiqing , Jiao Li , Yan Pei , Guo Zhibo , Qiu Tianyang , Wang Xibin
Published: December 2022

Surface skewness and kurtosis are two crucial topography property indexes that greatly influence the functional performance of the machined surface. This paper proposes a modified model of stress concentration factor (SCF), which integrates these two surface texture parameters with the well-known standard surface roughness parameters (Arola's model). The relative weight of positive and negative heights of the surface is considered to describe the influence of the shape of the peaks and valleys on the stress concentration of the surface profile for the first time, meanwhile, without losing the effect of the standard surface roughness parameters. The performance of the modified model is studied by comparing it with the other two models involving various aspects of the functional performance of machined surfaces, including fatigue life, wear resistance, fretting crack nucleation, and initiation behaviors, as well as the surface bearing capability. The results indicate that by accounting for the surface skewness and kurtosis parameters, the modified model is more suitable for evaluating the SCF of machined surfaces, appropriately describing the correlation between surface texture and fatigue life and achieving a good prediction of fatigue life compared with the experimental results.
An Alternating Efficient Approach for Determination of the Non-Stationary Responses of Strongly Nonlinear Systems Driven by Random Excitations
Authors: Qian Jiamin , Chen Lincong , Sun Jian-Qiao
Published: December 2022

An alternating efficient approach for predicting non-stationary response of randomly excited nonlinear systems is proposed by a combination of radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) and stochastic averaging method (SAM). First, the n-degree-of-freedom quasi-non-integrable-Hamiltonian (QNIH) system is reduced to a one-dimensional averaged Itô differential equation within the framework of SAM for QNIH. Subsequently, the associated Fokker–Planck–Kolmogorov (FPK) equation is solved with the RBFNN. Specifically, the solution of the associated FPK equation is expressed in a linear combination of a series of basis functions with time-correlation weights. These time-depended weights are solved by minimizing a loss function, which involves the residual of the differential equations and the constraint conditions. Three typical nonlinear systems are studied to verify the applicability of the developed scheme. Comparisons to the data generated by simulation technique indicate that the approach yields reliable results with high efficiency.
Asymptotic Analysis of Elastic Coupling in Anisotropic-Homogeneous Beam
Authors: Kumar Shakya Nishant , Padhee Srikant Sekhar
Published: December 2022

Elastic coupling is extensively used for passive control of modern structures. This design philosophy has been extensively explored in composite beams, which are inherently inhomogeneous and anisotropic. Such in-depth investigation is not available for homogeneous-anisotropic beams. This paper investigates elastic coupling in homogeneous-anisotropic beam with elliptical cross section using variational asymptotic method (VAM). It is observed that the mere introduction of anisotropy does not couple the system completely. The coupling is tuneable and tailorable, depending on the material properties, their spatial distribution (homogeneity/inhomogeneity), and the geometrical parameters of the beam.
Novel Non-Fourier Ice Heat Conduction Model Considering Latent Heat Via Specific Heat Capacity Functionalization and Its Potential Application
Authors: Fang Ruoshi , Song Ke , Zheng Bailin
Published: December 2022

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells are widely used in the automotive and aviation fields due to their high efficiency and environmental friendliness. However, the long starting time of fuel cell vehicles at low temperatures restricts large-scale commercialization. In this work, for the problem of rapid ice melting during a cold start, it is found that when Fourier’s law is adopted, the error is as much as three times higher compared with the non-Fourier heat conduction law, and for ice, the influence of latent heat cannot be ignored, so a novel non-Fourier ice heat conduction model considering latent heat via specific heat capacity functionalization is established. The results demonstrate that the temperature curve first remains unchanged with time and then changes suddenly after the arrival of the heat wave. When the temperature rises to the phase change range, the temperature hardly changes before the completion of the phase change, and then finally rises slowly. Changing the thermal relaxation time may significantly affect the temperature response. The research conclusions of this paper have scientific guiding significance for the materials and structures working in extreme thermal environments such as low temperatures and ultra-high temperature change rates, as well as the design of fuel cell vehicles.
A 2-Gene Host Signature for Improved Accuracy of COVID-19 Diagnosis Agnostic to Viral Variants
Authors: Albright Jack , Mick Eran , Sanchez-Guerrero Estella , Kamm Jack , Mitchell Anthea , Detweiler Angela M. , Neff Norma , Tsitsiklis Alexandra , Hayakawa Serpa Paula , Ratnasiri Kalani , Havlir Diane , Kistler Amy , DeRisi Joseph L. , Pisco Angela Oliveira , Langelier Charles R.
Published: December 2022

In this work, we study upper respiratory tract gene expression to develop and validate a 2-gene host-based COVID-19 diagnostic classifier and then demonstrate its implementation in a clinically practical qPCR assay. We find that the host classifier has utility for mitigating false-negative results, for example due to SARS-CoV-2 variants harboring mutations at primer target sites, and for mitigating false-positive viral PCR results due to laboratory cross-contamination.
Inpatient clinician workload: a scoping review protocol to understand the definition, measurement and impact of non-procedural clinician workloads
Authors: Smith Erica Mitchell , Keniston Angela , Welles Christine Cara , Vukovic Nemanja , McBeth Lauren , Harnke Ben , Burden Marisha
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Clinicians that care for hospitalised patients face unprecedented work conditions with exposure to highly infectious disease, exceedingly high patient numbers, and unpredictable work demands, all of which have resulted in increases in stress and burnout. Preliminary studies suggest that increasing workloads negatively affect inpatient clinician well-being and may negatively affect job performance; yet high workloads may be prioritised secondary to financial drivers or from workforce shortages. Despite this, the correlation between workload and these negative outcomes has not been fully quantified. Additionally, there are no clear measures for inpatient clinician workload and no standards to define ideal workloads. Using the protocol described here, we will perform a scoping review of the literature to generate a comprehensive understanding of how clinician workload of medical patients is currently defined, measured in clinical settings and its impact on the workforce, patients and institutional outcomes.

Methods and analysis

We will follow the methodology outlined by Joanna Briggs Institute and Arksey and O’Malley to conduct a comprehensive search of major electronic databases including Ovid Medline (PubMed), Embase (Embase.com), PsycINFO, ProQuest Dissertations and Google Scholar. All relevant published peer-reviewed and dissertaion grey literature will be included. Data will be extracted using a standardised form to capture key article information. Results will be presented in a descriptive narrative format.

Ethics and dissemination

This review does not require ethics approval though all included studies will be screened to ensure appropriate approval. The synthesis of this literature will provide a better understanding of the current state of work for inpatient clinicians, associated outcomes, and will identify gaps in the literature. These findings will be used in conjunction with an expert Delphi panel to identify measures of inpatient clinician workload to then guide the development of a novel workforce mobile application to actively track clinician work. We aim to lay the groundwork for future workforce studies to understand the optimal workloads that drive key outcomes for clinicians, patients and institutions.
Prospective multicentre randomised controlled trial of the effect ofBraun Enteroenterostomy in the Reconstruction after Pancreaticoduodenectomy on delayed gastric emptying (DGE): protocol for the BERP study
Authors: Gupta Saksham , Brown Kai , Lott Natalie , Carroll Rosemary , Burnett David , Nikfarjam Mehrdad
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Despite advances in achieving low mortality rates with pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), morbidity remains high. A key contributor to this morbidity is delayed gastric emptying (DGE) occurring with an incidence of up to 30%. The utility of a Braun enteroenterostomy (BE) appears promising to reducing the incidence of DGE, but current research is not definitive.

Methods and analysis

This project will be designed as a prospective multicentre randomised controlled blinded study to assess how BE effects the rate of DGE after PD in the setting of malignancy, within Australia—with blinding of patients, outcome assessors and data analysts. Patients will be randomly assigned to PD with Billroth II reconstruction with BE versus PD with Billroth II reconstruction without BE. The primary outcome is the incidence of DGE as defined by the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery. Secondary outcomes will include length of hospital stay, postoperative pancreatic fistula incidence, development of major complications (Clavien-Dindo≥3 a), quality of life and 90-day mortality.

The study will be powered at 80% to detect a reduction in DGE rate from 30% to 15%, requiring a total of 264 study participants. An interim analysis will be performed once a total of 104 study participants have been recruited at which point the study will be able to detect reduction in DGE from 30% to 10% with 80% power. Statistical analysis will be done with intention-to-treat principles. The proportion of patients suffering DGE will be compared between treatment arms using a χ2test, with p values used to represent statistical significance.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been ethically approved by the Hunter New England Human Research Ethics Committee (2021/ETH11939), with results disseminated through presentation and publication.

Trial registration number

CTRN12622000048785.