bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A measles virus collective infectious unit that caused lethal human brain disease includes many locally restricted and few widespread copy-back defective genomes
Authors: Taye Biruhalem , Yousaf Iris , Navaratnarajah Chanakha K. , Schroeder Declan C. , Pfaller Christian K. , Cattaneo Roberto
Published: October 2024

During virus replication in cultured cells, copy-back defective viral genomes (cbDVGs) can arise. CbDVGs are powerful inducers of innate immune responses
in vitro
, but their occurrence and impact on natural infections of human hosts remain poorly defined. We asked whether cbDVGs were generated in the brain of a patient who succumbed to subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) about 20 years after acute measles virus (MeV) infection. Previous analyses of 13 brain specimens of this patient indicated that a collective infectious unit (CIU) drove lethal MeV spread. In this study, we identified 276 replication-competent cbDVG species, each present in over 100 copies in the brain. Six species were detected in multiple forebrain locations, implying that they travelled long-distance with the CIU. The cbDVG to full-length genomes ratio was often close to 1 (0.6–1.74). Most cbDVGs were 324–2,000 bases in length, corresponding to 2%–12% of the full-length genome; all are predicted to have complementary terminal sequences. If improperly encapsidated, these sequences have the potential to form double-stranded structures that can induce innate immune responses. To assess this, we examined the transcriptome of all brain specimens. Several interferon and inflammatory response genes were upregulated, but upregulation levels did not correlate with cbDVG levels in the specimens. Thus, the CIU that drove MeV pathogenesis in this brain includes, in addition to two complementary full-length genome populations, many locally restricted and few widespread cbDVG species. The widespread cbDVG species may have been positively selected but how they impacted pathogenesis remains to be determined.

IMPORTANCE

Copy-back defective viral genomes (cbDVGs) can drive virus–host interactions. They can suppress virus replication directly, by competing with full-length genomes, or indirectly by stimulating antiviral immunity.
In vitro
, cbDVG can slow down infections and promote persistence, but there is limited documentation of their presence in human hosts or of their impact on disease. We had the unique opportunity to analyze the brain of a patient who succumbed to subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, a rare but lethal consequence of measles. We detected more than 270 distinct cbDVG species; most were restricted to one specimen, but several reached all lobes of the forebrain, suggesting positive selection. Our analyses provide the missing knowledge of the diversity of cbDVG in a natural infection of a human host. They also reveal that a collective infectious unit that caused lethal human brain disease includes few widespread cbDVG, in addition to two ubiquitous complementary full-length genome populations.
Draft genome sequence of
Pseudomona
s sp. ZS001 isolated from peanut plantation soil
Authors: Peng Chenchen , Li Dandan , Yang Haoyu , Wu Xiaoyan , Zhao Xinyue , Qin Jie
Published: October 2024

Pseudomonas
sp. ZS001 is a bacterium potentially degrading soluble starch isolated from peanut plantation soil sprayed with starch-based material in Dasi Town, Tianjin. Reporting the genome sequence of strain ZS001 can help us understand the genome composition, potential functional characteristics, and application value of
Pseudomonas
members at the genetic level.
Complete genome sequence of
Bacillus cereus
NBNZ-2162, isolated from citrus rhizosphere soil
Authors: Chen Wei , Chen Ling , Cheng Xiyu , Liu Xiaoyan , Zhu Lei
Published: October 2024

Plant rhizosphere microorganisms are an important source for discovering beneficial microorganisms in crops. Here we presented the complete genome of
Bacillus cereus
NBNZ-2162 isolated from citrus rhizosphere soil, of which the total length is 5,395,922 bp and possesses 5,368 CDS.
Complete genome sequences of feline astroviruses from asymptomatic stray cats in Japan
Authors: Kitashin Ichika , Kumano Hitomi , Nakagawa Keisuke
Published: October 2024

We determined the complete genome sequences of two feline astroviruses (FAstVs) in non-diarrheic stool samples from apparently healthy stray cats in 2020 in Japan. Information on the complete genome sequence of FAstV from asymptomatic cats has great potential for a better understanding of the ecology of FAstV in cats.
Genome sequence of an extremely halophilic archaeon isolated from Permian Period halite, Salado Formation in New Mexico, USA:
Halobacterium
sp. strain NMX12-1
Authors: Soto Leonardo , DasSarma Priya , Anton Brian P. , Vincze Tamas , Verma Ishita , Eralp Bora , Powers Dennis W. , Dozier Brian Lee , Roberts Richard J. , DasSarma Shiladitya
Published: October 2024

Halobacterium
sp. strain NMX12-1, an extremely halophilic Archaeon, was isolated from 250 million-year-old Salado Formation salt crystal in Carlsbad, New Mexico. Single-molecule real-time sequencing revealed a 3.2-Mbp genome with a 2.6-Mbp chromosome and five plasmids (234, 211, 119, 21, and 1.6-kbp). The GC-rich genome encodes an acidic proteome, characteristic of Haloarchaea.
Integrated analysis of metabolome and microbiome in a rat model of perimenopausal syndrome
Authors: Wei Yanqiu , Shi Juanjuan , Wang Jianhua , Hu Zongyan , Wang Min , Wang Wen , Cui Xiujuan
Published: October 2024

The objectives of this study are to examine the disparities in serum and intestinal tissue metabolites between a perimenopausal rat model and control rats and to analyze the diversity and functionality of intestinal microorganisms to determine the potential correlation between intestinal flora and metabolites. We established a rat model of perimenopausal syndrome (PMS) and performed an integrated analysis of metabolome and microbiome. Orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis scores and replacement tests indicated distinct separations of anion and cation levels between serum and intestinal samples of the model and control groups. Furthermore, lipids and lipid-like molecules constituted the largest percentage of HMDB compounds in both serum and intestinal tissues, followed by organic acids and derivatives, and organoheterocyclic compounds, with other compounds showing significant variability. Moreover, analysis of diversity and functional enrichment of the intestinal microflora and correlation analysis with metabolites revealed significant variability in the composition of the intestinal flora between the normal control and perimenopausal groups, with these differentially expressed intestinal flora strongly correlated with their metabolites. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to understanding the indications and contraindications for estrogen application in perimenopausal women and to aid in the development of appropriate therapeutic agents.

IMPORTANCE

In this work, we employed 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing to analyze the gut microbes in stool samples. In addition, we conducted an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry-based metabolomics approach on gut tissue and serum obtained from rats with perimenopausal syndrome (PMS) and healthy controls. By characterizing the composition and metabolomic properties of gut microbes in PMS rats, we aim to enhance our understanding of their role in women’s health, emphasizing the significance of regulating gut microbes in the context of menopausal women’s well-being. We aim to provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of PMS in terms of gut microflora as well as metabolism.
Island of Hawai‘i eruptions 2018–present: Profound landscape and human impacts
Authors: Lundblad Steven P. , Gallant Elisabeth , Zoeller Michael , Lynn Kendra J. , Flinders Ashton
Published: October 2024

This three-day field trip examines deposits and landscape evolution associated with recent eruptions of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, Hawai‘i, USA, beginning with the lower East Rift Zone eruption and associated partial caldera collapse during the summer of 2018. As of this writing, there have been five eruptions within Kīlauea’s summit caldera, one eruption in the Southwest Rift Zone of Kīlauea, and several intrusions into the south caldera and Southwest Rift Zone since 2018. For the first time since 1984, Mauna Loa erupted in 2022, with lava flows in the caldera and along the Northeast Rift Zone. Recent eruptions contrast significantly with the preceding period, characterized by Kīlauea’s long-lived East Rift Zone eruption at Pu‘u‘ō‘ō from 1983 to 2018 and sustained lava lake activity at the summit from 2008 to 2018.
Volcanism and tectonics of young basaltic fields in the eastern California shear zone, California, USA
Authors: Buesch* David C. , Miller David M.
Published: October 2024

Circa 12 Ma, there was a fundamental reorganization of magmatism and tectonics in the Mojave Desert, California, USA, from basaltic to rhyolitic fields associated with extensional tectonics to dispersed basaltic monogenetic fields associated with the northwest- or east-striking strike-slip faults. The broad zone of strike-slip faults associated with the San Andreas transform margin stretched east to Arizona, but the high slip-rate central part that is known as the Quaternary eastern California shear zone is the locus of the post–12 Ma volcanism. We compiled a literature review of 29 basaltic fields, conducted detailed and reconnaissance study of several fields, and conducted geochemistry on many. Most of the volcanic fields are near or cut by the long fault systems, but more importantly, in nearly two-thirds of the fields that have scoria cones, the cones are <1 km from one of these faults. Eighteen volcanic fields have geochemistry data, and of the 441 analyses of major elements, 286 are new U.S. Geological Survey data that include comprehensive trace elements. The data are used to compare fields and determine the compositional variations during the formation of each field. Comparisons between fields show that several nearby volcanic fields have similar geochemical compositions and trends compared to distant fields; we suggest that six magmatic clusters formed, some with 200–300 k.y. duration. Spatial patterns change over the 12 m.y. span, with early fields forming in the north and south and the youngest in a central area from Pisgah to Amboy fields. The volume of magma also changed, most notably with a sixfold increase ca. 4 Ma followed by a 2–3 m.y. quiescence. In addition to the fracture control provided by strike-slip faults as magma conduits, we advance arguments for shear melting in the mantle along the most active faults, with secondary controls of local tectonic interactions, to explain spatial and temporal patterns in the fields.
New models for fracture development in magmatic systems, Tuolumne Intrusive Suite, California, USA
Authors: Tikoff* Basil , Johnston Kyrsten L. , Shipley Tim , Bartley John , Becker Richard , Riley Paul
Published: October 2024

The Late Cretaceous Tuolumne Intrusive Suite in the Sierra Nevada batholith (California, USA) has been well studied for magmatic processes. The superb alpine exposures also allow one to investigate the development of magmatic fractures in these systems. Utilizing a cognitive framework of mental models, this field trip highlights and explores three fracture types that are rarely described in the literature and appear limited to magmatic systems. The first type is tabular fracture clusters (TFCs), which are a series of closely (sub-cm) spaced, sub-parallel fractures. Most TFCs in the Tuolumne Intrusive Suite strike ~020, but in some locations there is an orthogonal set that strikes ~110. Both sets have a sub-vertical dip. The second fracture type is magma-healed fractures. These fractures offset igneous features (e.g., layering), but there is no extant fault with grain-size reduction or evidence of cataclasis. Our interpretation is that these features formed while the system contained melt, and that the melt healed any brittle deformation features that may have formed. The third fracture type is primary en echelon P-fractures, recognized by the formation of epidote-filled, pull-apart zones. There are both right-lateral and left-lateral P-fracture arrays, which are spatially associated with the right-lateral Cascade Lake shear zone (part of the Sierra Crest shear zone system). These three types of fracture systems do not fit into any preexisting fault/fracture categories. These observations suggest that disciplinary categories (e.g., fault systems) may need to be expanded to form more categories (splitting). This category reorganization may be facilitated by taking a perspective that addresses both the Earth processes and mental processes that reason about them. During this two-day field trip, we will visit the tabular fracture clusters and healed magmatic fractures in Yosemite National Park, and the P-fracture arrays in the Saddlebag Lake area.
Zinc isotope perspective on global carbon cycling during the onset of the late Paleozoic icehouse
Authors: Zhong Yutian , Chen Jitao , Liu Sheng-Ao , Yuan Chengshuai , Gao Biao , Isson Terry T. , Algeo Thomas J. , Sheng Qingyi , Chen Bo , Luo Genming , Wang Xiang-dong , Qie Wenkun
Published: October 2024

The onset of the late Paleozoic icehouse coincided with a large global carbon-cycle perturbation (represented by the mid-Tournaisian carbon isotope excursion [TICE]), although the underlying cause of this isotopic event remains uncertain. Zinc (Zn), an essential micronutrient for plankton, has an isotopic composition (δ66Zn) in seawater that is sensitive to subtle fluctuations in marine carbon (C) cycling. Here, we investigated C cycling during the TICE using paired carbonate δ66Zn-δ13C and organic δ13C records from two widely spaced sections in South China. These records reveal coupling between δ66Zn and δ13C over an ~4 m.y. interval in the form of two positive excursions (Peaks I and II) separated by a negative shift (interpeak). Peak I is attributed to enhanced marine primary productivity (MPP), which was stimulated by increased micronutrient supply linked to enhanced silicate weathering and/or upwelling. The interpeak may record oxidation of remobilized organic matter from continental shelves exposed by glacio-eustatic sea-level fall, which, in turn, promoted MPP again and resulted in Peak II. Thus, the TICE records complex climate–carbon cycle feedbacks that may have led to large-scale organic carbon burial and driven stepwise cooling, marking the onset of a sustained late Paleozoic icehouse climate.
Examining the roles and relationships of actors in community health systems in Nigeria through the lens of the expanded health systems framework
Authors: Odii Aloysius , Etiaba Enyi , Onwujekwe Obinna
Published: October 2024

Background

Community health system (CHS) exists through the actions and activities of different actors within and outside communities. However, these actors, their roles and their relationships with one another have not been properly explored to understand their dynamics in facilitating the effectiveness of CHS. This study identified the actors in CHS, described their roles and their relationships with one another using the expanded health systems framework (EHSF).

Methodology

Data were collected using qualitative tools in three states located in three geographical zones in Nigeria. A total of 102 in-depth interviews and focus group discussions sessions were conducted, recorded and transcribed. The respondents were categorised into policy-makers, programme managers, formal health providers, informal health providers (IHPs), civil society organisations/non-governmental organisations, community leaders and community groups. The data were analysed using a thematic data analysis approach.

Findings

The study identified numerous informal health actors (IHA) within the CHS and certain actors—such as community leaders, ward development committees, IHPs and local health representatives—exhibited more pronounced actions. They were active across the EHSF, especially in leadership and governance, health workforce, service delivery and supply of medical products. The relationships and interdependencies of these actors manifest as intricately complex, united by the shared goal of enhancing health at both the household and community levels. Although their roles may not be distinctly defined, instances of active and pronounced engagement reveal the strong commitment of IHA to advocate for and facilitate health programmes at the community level.

Conclusion

There is a broad spectrum of actors whose contributions are critical to the effectiveness and full functioning of CHS. Continuous engagement and defining clear roles and responsibilities for these actors could contribute to improved community health.
Association between physical activity and diabetes control: multiple cross-sectional studies and a prospective study in a population-based, Swiss cohort
Authors: VonLanthen Gaël , Marques-Vidal Pedro
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Physical activity (PA) is recommended in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) to improve their glycaemic control. We aimed to assess PA levels among participants with controlled and uncontrolled T2DM.

Research design and methods

Three cross-sectional analyses of a prospective cohort conducted in Lausanne, Switzerland. PA levels (sedentary, light, moderate and vigorous) were either self-reported via questionnaire (first and second survey) or objectively assessed using accelerometry (second and third survey). T2DM control was defined as glycaemia <7.0 mmol/L or glycated haemoglobin <6.5% (48 mmol/mol).

Results

Data from 195 (30.3% women), 199 (30.1% women) and 151 (44.4% women) participants with T2DM were analysed in the first (2009–2012), second (2014–2017) and third (2018–2021) surveys. Approximately half of the participants did not have controlled glycaemia. Using subjective data, over 90% (first survey) and 75% (second survey) of participants reported moderate and vigorous PA >150 min/week. After multivariable adjustment, no differences were found regarding all types of self-reported PA levels between controlled and uncontrolled participants. Objective assessment of PA led to considerable differences according to the software used: 90% and 20% of participants with moderate and vigorous PA >150 min/week, respectively. After multivariable adjustment, no differences were found for all PA levels between controlled and uncontrolled participants, irrespective of the analytical procedure used. Using glycated haemoglobin, almost two-thirds of participants were considered as uncontrolled, and no differences were found for objectively assessed PA between controlled and uncontrolled participants.

Conclusions

No differences in PA levels were found between participants with controlled and uncontrolled T2DM.
Efficacy and mechanism of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation for angina severity in patients with chronic coronary syndromes: study protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial
Authors: Li Mengqi , Zhang Ziyang , Gai Xiangmu , Li Mengyuan , Li Tie , Sun Mengmeng , He Min , Jiang Xiaobo , Zhang Chenfeng , Wang Yanxin , Wang Hongfeng
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Stimulating acupoints is beneficial for improving heart health but the clinical efficacy of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) as a complementary therapy for chronic coronary syndromes (CCSs) remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate whether TEAS can alleviate angina severity in patients with CCS and to explore the potential mechanisms underlying TEAS.

Methods and analysis

This study, conducted across two clinical centres, involved 90 participants distributed equally into three groups via simple randomisation (1:1:1 ratio). The research cycle was 28 weeks including a 4-week baseline, 12-week treatment and 12-week follow-up period. All groups will receive basic treatment with the TEAS group additionally receiving 36 sessions of TEAS stimulation over the 12 weeks. The two control groups will either undergo sham TEAS or no additional intervention alongside their basic treatment. The primary outcome is the 6-minute walk test; eight other indicators will serve as secondary outcomes.

Ethics and dissemination

Approval for this study was granted by the Medical Research Ethics Committee of the Third Clinical Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine in May 2023. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2400079383.
Do relationships between ambient temperature and serious adverse health outcomes vary among users of different antidiabetes drugs? A retrospective cohort study of US Medicaid beneficiaries with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Leonard Charles E , Bogar Kacie , Brensinger Colleen M , Bilker Warren B , Bell Michelle L , Flory James H , Shi Christopher , Chen Cheng , Hennessy Sean
Published: October 2024

Objective

Prior studies demonstrate that some untoward clinical outcomes vary by outdoor temperature. This is true of some endpoints common among persons with diabetes, a population vulnerable to climate change-associated health risks. Yet, prior work has been agnostic to the antidiabetes drugs taken by such persons. We examined whether relationships between ambient temperature and adverse health outcomes among persons with type 2 diabetes (T2D) varied by exposure to different antidiabetes drugs.

Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

Healthcare and meteorological data from five US states, 1999–2010.

Participants

US Medicaid beneficiaries with T2D categorised by use of antidiabetes drugs.

Exposure

Maximum daily ambient temperature (t-max).

Outcomes

Hospital presentation for serious hypoglycaemia, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or sudden cardiac arrest (examined separately).

Methods

We linked US Medicaid to US Department of Commerce data that permitted us to follow individuals longitudinally and examine health plan enrolment, healthcare claims, and meteorological exposures—all at the person-day level. We mapped daily temperature from weather stations to Zone Improvement Plan (ZIP) codes, then assigned a t-max to each person-day based on the residential ZIP code. Among prespecified subcohorts of users of different pharmacologic classes of antidiabetes drugs, we calculated age and sex-adjusted occurrence rates for each outcome by t-max stratum. We used modified Poisson regression to assess relationships between linear and quadratic t-max terms and each outcome. We examined effect modification between t-max and a covariable for current exposure to a specific antidiabetes drug and assessed significance via Wald tests.

Results

We identified ∼3 million persons with T2D among whom 713 464 used sulfonylureas (SUs), dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4is), meglitinides, or glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP1RAs). We identified a positive linear association between t-max and serious hypoglycaemia among non-insulin users of glimepiride and of glyburide but not glipizide (Wald p value for interaction among SUs=0.048). We identified an inverse linear association between t-max and DKA among users of the DPP-4i sitagliptin (p=0.016) but not the GLP1RA exenatide (p=0.080). We did not identify associations between t-max and sudden cardiac arrest among users of SUs, meglitinides, exenatide, or DPP-4is.

Conclusions

We identified some antidiabetes drug class-specific and agent-specific differences in the relationship between ambient temperature and untoward glycaemic but not arrhythmogenic, safety outcomes.
Effectiveness of digital health exercise interventions on muscle function and physical performance in older adults with possible, confirmed or severe sarcopenia: a protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Shi Ya , Stanmore Emma , McGarrigle Lisa , Todd Chris
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Sarcopenia is characterised by the progressive weakening of muscle function that occurs with age. This condition frequently leads to frailty, disability and even death. Research on sarcopenia prevention is growing. Digital health exercise interventions are increasingly gaining attention in this field, with the rapid advancement of the internet and the influence of the COVID-19. However, there is a lack of empirical support for their effectiveness. Our study aims to assess the effect of digital health exercise intervention on sarcopenia in older persons, specifically focusing on its ability to improve muscle strength, muscle mass and physical performance.

Methods and analysis

Searching will be performed in the following 11 databases (Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL, PsycINFO, WOS, Scopus, CBM, CNKI, WANFANG and VIP) for published trials and 2 trial registries (ClinicalTrials.gov and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform) for unpublished trials. Google Scholar will be used to find grey literature. The criterion of inclusion will be clinical trials involving digital health exercise interventions in older adults (≥60 years) diagnosed with sarcopenia (possible, confirmed or severe sarcopenia). For data synthesis, we will use a summary table to show the major characteristics of selected trials and a summary graph to demonstrate the risk of bias for each outcome using RoB 2, which will be further discussed in a narrative synthesis. The possibility of meta-analysis for quantitative data will be assessed according to the homogeneity analysis of the trials, using the methods of fixed or random effects model. If meta-analysis is possible, subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis will be performed as well. Publication bias will be assessed through the use of the funnel plot and Egger’s linear regression test when an adequate number of trials are available. Finally, the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach will be used to classify the certainty of evidence body into four categories (high, moderate, low and very low).

Ethics and dissemination

The findings of the systematic review will be shared through publishing in a peer-reviewed journal and presentation at appropriate conferences. Since we will not be using specific patient data, ethical approval is unnecessary.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024516930.
Perioperative mortality of caesarean section in North-West Ethiopia: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Endeshaw Amanuel Sisay , Asress Eyaya Misgan , Bayu Habtu Tsehayu , Andargie Dereje Gashaw , Molla Misganew Terefe , Dejen Eshetu Tesfaye , Kumie Fantahun Tarekegn
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess 7-day perioperative maternal mortality and risk factors at Tibebe Ghion Specialized Hospital.

Design

A single-centre prospective cohort study.

Setting

A tertiary hospital in North-West Ethiopia, 01 June 2019 to 30 June 2021.

Participants

A total of 979 pregnant mothers who underwent caesarean section were enrolled in this study. Mothers who did not have cellphones and who had incorrect information for follow-up were excluded from the study.

Outcome measure

Perioperative death measured from intraoperative time to the seventh day following caesarean section.

Results

The most frequent indication for caesarean section was failure to progress, followed by fetal distress and elective caesarean delivery, accounting for 40.04%, 24.72% and 20.43% of all cases, respectively. The 7-day perioperative maternal mortality rate was 1.83%. Maternal bleeding (adjusted relative risk (ARR) = 11.80; 95% CI 1.12, 124.08) and not using the WHO surgical safety checklist (ARR = 6.88; 95% CI 3.14, 15.07) were independently associated with increased risk of 7-day perioperative mortality.

Conclusion

In this study, mortality after caesarean section was higher than in high-income countries. Implementation of targeted interventions focusing on the prevention and management of maternal bleeding, along with the consistent use of the WHO surgical safety checklist, could potentially contribute to improving the overall safety and outcomes of caesarean sections.
Exploring the burden of paediatric acute otitis media with discharge in the UK: a qualitative study
Authors: Heward Elliot , Lunn Judith , Birkenshaw-Dempsey James , Molloy John , Isba Rachel , Ashcroft Darren M , Hay Alastair D , Nichani Jaya R , Bruce Iain A
Published: October 2024

Background

Acute otitis media with discharge (AOMd) results from a tympanic membrane perforation secondary to a middle ear infection. Currently, the impact of AOMd on children and young people (CYP) and their families is not well understood. There is also a need to explore the experience of healthcare professionals in treating AOMd. Interviews with CYP and their parents, and focus groups with medical professionals, were conducted to explore these objectives.

Methods

A total of 26 parents of CYP (age range: 7 months to 15 years) with a history of AOMd (within the last year) and 28 medical professionals were recruited across the UK between August 2023 and March 2024. Healthcare professionals were from primary care (n=17), ear, nose and throat (ENT) (n=7) and emergency medicine (n=4) backgrounds. Thematic analysis was performed independently by three reviewers.

Results

The majority of CYP (n=25/26) (96.2%) had suffered from multiple episodes of AOMd. AOMd has a physical, psychological, educational, financial and social impact on CYP and their parents. Parents found accessing healthcare services and information difficult, which increased parental anxiety. Antibiotic overuse was also a concern among parents. The majority of general practitioners and emergency care staff described using oral amoxicillin, compared with ENT doctors who predominantly prescribed topical antibiotics.

Conclusions

AOMd has a significant impact on CYP and their parent’s daily lives. Need for clear, easily accessible patient information was identified as a priority by the parents of CYP with AOMd. Evidence-based management guidelines should be developed once high-quality evidence is available.

Trial registration number

ISCTRN43760.
Public health unit funding per capita and seasonal influenza vaccination among youth and adults in Ontario, Canada in 2013/2014 and 2018/2019
Authors: Chew Jo Lin , Smith Brendan T , Buchan Sarah A , Senthilselvan Ambikaipakan , Pabayo Roman
Published: October 2024

Background

Influenza vaccines are crucial in reducing the risk of influenza symptoms. We aimed to: (1) estimate the association between public health unit (PHU) funding per capita and influenza vaccination among individuals aged 12 and older in Ontario in 2013/2014 and 2018/2019 and (2) determine whether any observed associations were heterogeneous across household income groups, gender and age categories.

Methods

Cross-sectional studies were conducted using the Canadian Community Health Survey, a population-representative survey that collects annual health data. PHU funding per capita was measured using the approved provincial funding for mandatory programmes and the Canadian Census Population Estimates. Self-reported influenza vaccination status in the past year was used. Multilevel logistic regression was used to estimate the association.

Results

A case-complete weighted dataset revealed that 33.2% in 2013/2014 and 35.1% in 2018/2019 of respondents were vaccinated. In 2013/2014, every standard deviation (SD) increase in PHU funding per capita was associated with vaccination (OR: 1.08; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.15; SD: 14.1). Furthermore, for every SD increase in PHU funding per capita in 2013/2014, individuals from the lowest household income and between the ages of 50 and 64 years were 29% (95% CI: 1.10, 1.50) and 13% (95% CI: 1.03, 1.23) more likely to be vaccinated, respectively, while adjusting for confounders. No heterogeneous associations were observed in 2018/2019.

Conclusion

Funding may have the potential to support PHU’s role in preventing diseases, promoting health and reducing health inequities among the population.
Mental health and support for rigorous tobacco control strategies in South Australia
Authors: Trigg Joshua , Bowden Jacqueline , Morris Julia , Daly Tony , Miller Caroline , Bonevski Billie
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Tobacco endgame strategy includes policies to end the tobacco epidemic. As tobacco smoking prevalence is higher among people with mental health conditions (MHC), understanding the impact of rigorous tobacco control strategies for this group is critical. This study examined support for five tobacco control strategies among people with MHCs: increasing tobacco product tax, reducing tobacco retail locations, ending tobacco sales in alcohol-licensed venues, limiting retailers to one tobacco point of sale and reduced nicotine in smoked tobacco.

Methods

Cross-sectional surveying of a representative sample of 3006 South Australians in 2021 aged ≥15 years included demographic, tobacco control strategy, smoking status and mental health indicators. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the influence of mental health on strategy support.

Results

Support was high for all tobacco control strategies, highest for reducing nicotine content (80.4%) and lowest for increasing tobacco tax (67.2%). Support for increased tobacco tax was lower among people with MHCs than for those without by 7.8% (aged 18+ years) to 9.5% (aged 15+ years). People who smoked had significantly lower support for all strategies, and smoking status and MHC did not interact in influencing support.

Conclusions

Support for tax-focused strategies was lower among people with MHCs. Retail and product-focused strategies may support equity in public acceptability of tobacco control action. Policy-makers must aim to maximise tobacco endgame support from populations most impacted by tobacco harms when implementing tobacco control strategies. Tax-focused approaches might be enhanced with consultation and advocacy for people with MHCs.
Cardiovascular adverse events associated with norepinephrine–dopamine reuptake inhibitors: a pharmacovigilance study of the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System
Authors: Kandukuru Abhishek , Sharma Priyanka , Verghese Gupta Sheeba , Nkembo Augustine , Sutariya Vijaykumar
Published: October 2024

Norepinephrine–dopamine reputake inhibitors (NDRIs), including bupropion, methylphenidate, atomoxetine, and reboxetine, are commonly prescribed for psychiatric disorders such as narcolepsy, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and depression. Cardiovascular adverse events have been reported to the FDA despite their effectiveness. This pharmacovigilance study analyzed cardiovascular adverse events associated with NDRIs using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System data from January 2004 to December 2021. A retrospective analysis of adverse event reports was conducted, employing time-trend analysis and disproportionality evaluation to assess cardiovascular risks. Bupropion had the greatest reported odds ratios (RORs) for tachycardia (ROR = 4.2, 95% CI: 4.0–4.4) and hypertension (ROR = 3.5, 95% CI: 3.3–3.7), while methylphenidate showed greater ROR for arrhythmias (ROR = 2.8, 95% CI: 2.6–3.0) and palpitations (ROR = 3.1, 95% CI: 2.9–3.3). Reboxetine had signals for palpitations (ROR = 3.0, 95% CI: 2.8–3.2) and myocardial infarction (ROR = 2.7, 95% CI: 2.5–2.9), whereas atomoxetine revealed signals for hypertension (ROR = 2.9, 95% CI: 2.7–3.1) and syncope (ROR = 2.5, 95% CI: 2.3–2.7). Time-trend analysis revealed temporal variability in the cardiovascular risks connected with NDRIs. Our research elucidates cardiovascular safety profiles for NDRIs, highlighting the necessity for continuous pharmacovigilance. The observed variations in adverse events emphasize the need for ongoing surveillance to mitigate potential cardiovascular risks and enhance patient safety and treatment outcomes.
Impact of correlations on nuclear binding energies
Authors: Scalesi A. , Duguet T. , Demol P. , Frosini M. , Somà V. , Tichai A.
Published: October 2024

A strong effort will be dedicated in the coming years to extend the reach of ab initio nuclear-structure calculations to heavy doubly open-shell nuclei. In order to do so, the most efficient strategies to incorporate dominant many-body correlations at play in such nuclei must be identified. With this motivation in mind, the present work analyses the step-by-step inclusion of many-body correlations and their impact on binding energies of Calcium and Chromium isotopes. Employing an empirically-optimal Hamiltonian built from chiral effective field theory, binding energies along both isotopic chains are studied via a hierarchy of approximations based on polynomially-scaling expansion many-body methods. More specifically, calculations are performed based on (i) the spherical Hartree–Fock–Bogoliubov mean-field approximation plus correlations from second-order Bogoliubov many-body perturbation theory or Bogoliubov coupled cluster with singles and doubles on top of it, along with (ii) the axially-deformed Hartree–Fock–Bogoliubov mean-field approximation plus correlations from second-order Bogoliubov many-body perturbation theory built on it. The corresponding results are compared to experimental data and to those obtained via valence-space in-medium similarity renormalization group calculations at the normal-ordered two-body level that act as a reference in the present study. The spherical mean-field approximation is shown to display specific shortcomings in Ca isotopes that can be understood analytically and that are efficiently corrected via the consistent addition of low-order dynamical correlations on top of it. While the same setting cannot appropriately reproduce binding energies in doubly open-shell Cr isotopes, allowing the unperturbed mean-field state to break rotational symmetry permits to efficiently capture the static correlations responsible for the phenomenological differences observed between the two isotopic chains. Eventually, the present work demonstrates that polynomially-scaling expansion methods based on unperturbed states that possibly break (and restore) symmetries constitute an optimal route to extend ab initio calculations to heavy closed- and open-shell nuclei.
HOW DOES ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN AFFECT CORPORATE RESILIENCE? EVIDENCE FROM CHINA’S ENERGY SMEs
Authors: DENG YOUYI , ZHANG XIANFENG , WANG JIANDA , NADERI NIKI
Published: October 2024

In the context of the Russia–Ukraine conflict and China’s “carbon peak and carbon neutrality” policy, exploring the resilience of energy enterprises for stable economic development has assumed increasing importance. Based on this, our study uses data from 165 Chinese energy small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from 2011 to 2021 to explore the relationship between environmental concern (EC) and energy enterprise resilience. The results find that both government and public ECs reduce the resilience of energy SMEs, and the results are statistically significant at 10%. Further mechanism research has shown that the impact of EC on the resilience of energy SMEs is still at the “cost compliance effect” stage and has not yet reached the “innovation compensation effect” stage. In particular, government EC increases the management costs of energy SMEs, reducing their flexibility and weakening their resilience. At the same time, public EC stimulates digital transformation but also reduces the resilience of energy SMEs due to the risks associated with digital transformation. The findings provide empirical evidence for building resilience in Chinese energy SMEs and providing feasible support for China’s environmental regulatory reform.
THRESHOLD EFFECTS OF TRADE OPENNESS ON FINANCIAL DEVELOPMENT: THE CASE OF THE ASEAN REGION
Authors: NAM HYUN-JUNG , BILGIN MEHMET HUSEYIN , RYU DOOJIN
Published: October 2024

This study examines the effect of trade openness on financial development in eight representative ASEAN countries, including Singapore. Low levels of exports and imports positively influence the depth, accessibility, and efficiency of financial development. Beyond a certain threshold, the benefits of trade openness for financial development begin to diminish. This threshold is lower than the mean value of trade openness, indicating that the ASEAN market possesses high trade flows but its financial sector remains of low quality. In the ASEAN region, the current financial development index is suboptimal compared to trade openness. Prioritizing improvements in financial development quality is thus crucial for mitigating the potential risks associated with excessive trade openness.
Design and development of STCF offline software
Authors: Ai Xiaocong , Huang Xingtao , Li Teng , Qi Binbin , Qin Xiaoshuai
Published: October 2024

The Super Tau-Charm Facility (STCF) is a next-generation positron–electron collider experiment, designed to study various physics topics in the tau-charm energy region. The designed peak luminosity of STCF is [Formula: see text], which is almost two orders of magnitude higher than the current tau-charm factory, BESIII. To implement the offline data processing tasks, as well as tackling the great challenge posed by the huge data volume, the offline software of STCF (OSCAR) is designed to implement the detector simulation, digitization, calibration, reconstruction as well as to provide a common platform for data analysis. This paper presents the status and progress of the OSCAR system, including the design, implementation as well as the preliminary performance of the core software, detector simulation, digitization and background mixing and reconstruction algorithms for all sub-detectors.
Non-extensive entropy and power-law inflation: Implications for observations
Authors: Khodam-Mohammadi A.
Published: October 2024

This study explores the interaction between non-extensive entropic FLRW cosmology and the power-law inflationary model, with a focus on the overlap between the scalar spectral index “[Formula: see text]” and the tensor-to-scalar ratio “r”. Based on a conjecture that non-extensive entropy alters the energy–momentum content of the cosmic fluid, the analysis examines how these overlaps shift with different model parameters and compares the findings to those from Bekenstein–Hawking (BH) entropic cosmology. The study highlights the impact of Tsallis, Rényi, and Sharma–Mittal entropies, uncovering a significant correlation between “[Formula: see text]” and “r” that suggests a deeper connection in power-law inflationary dynamics. The results demonstrate that non-extensive entropies not only enable viable inflation with a graceful exit but also address limitations inherent in the standard BH entropic framework, emphasizing the importance of precise parameter estimation. Specifically, Tsallis entropy allows for power-law inflation with [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] in alignment with Planck 2018 data. Moreover, the [Formula: see text] parameter in Rényi and Sharma–Mittal entropy models must be extremely small ([Formula: see text] in Planck mass units) to achieve successful power-law inflation with an e-folding number around 55–65, suggesting a unified thermodynamic perspective in cosmological studies.
Fractional mimetic dark matter: A fractional action-like variational approach
Authors: El-Nabulsi R. A. , Godinho C. F. L. , Vancea I. V.
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we propose a nonlocal extension of the mimetic dark matter model based on the FALVA implementation of fractional calculus. Our primary objective to explore how certain properties of dark matter can be modeled within the FALVA framework rather than formulate a phenomenological model. We begin by constructing the action functional of the cosmological extension of the mimetic dark model and deriving the nonlinear equations of motion in the general case. Next, we focus on a fractional-power homogeneous mimetic dark field with an exponential expansion factor. We derive the equation of motion for the lapse field and obtain its general solution. Analytical solutions are then obtained for small time intervals and arbitrary values of the fractionality parameter. These solutions enable us to establish the physical line element of spacetime, incorporating the mimetic dark matter field. From this line element, we derive the Ricci tensor, Ricci scalar, and geodesic equations.
The correspondences between variance and information entropies of a particle confined by a q-deformed hyperbolic potential
Authors: Omugbe E. , Inyang E. P. , Horchani R. , Eyube E. S. , Onate C. A. , Targema T. V. , Obikee A. C. , Ogundeji S. O.
Published: October 2024

The bound state solutions of the Schrödinger equation (SE) under a deformed hyperbolic potential are used in this paper to investigate the correlation between the information content, such as Shannon entropies and Fisher information, and the variance of a quantum system in both momentum and position spaces. The variance was obtained from the expectation moments in conjugated spaces and used to get the uncertainty products, Fisher information products and Shannon entropic sums for different potential parameters. These information measures were observed to vary with the potential parameters and obey their lowest bound inequalities. An increase in the Fisher information leads to a lower uncertainty and less information while decreases in the Fisher information result in higher uncertainties. We proposed a relationship between the Shannon entropies, Fisher information and the variance where an increase in the Fisher information leads to a lower Shannon entropy or a lower spread of the probability distribution and vice versa. The numerical results obtained with the proposed relations agree with the most utilized method in the literature. This current work simplifies the calculation of the Shannon entropies notably for complex potential functions.
Ulam’s Method for Computing Stationary Densities of Invariant Measures for Piecewise Convex Maps with Countably Infinite Number of Branches
Authors: Islam Md. Shafiqul , Góra Paweł , Mahbubur Rahman A. H. M.
Published: October 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be a piecewise convex map with countably infinite number of branches. In [ Góra et al. ,  2022 ], the existence of Absolutely Continuous Invariant Measure (ACIM) [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] and the exactness of the system [Formula: see text] have been proven. In this paper, we develop an Ulam method for approximation of [Formula: see text], the density of ACIM [Formula: see text]. We construct a sequence [Formula: see text] of maps [Formula: see text] s.t. [Formula: see text] has a finite number of branches and the sequence [Formula: see text] converges to [Formula: see text] almost uniformly. Using supremum norms and Lasota–Yorke-type inequalities, we prove the existence of ACIMs [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] with the densities [Formula: see text]. For a fixed n, we apply Ulam’s method with k subintervals to [Formula: see text] and compute approximations [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text]. We prove that [Formula: see text] as [Formula: see text] both a.e. and in [Formula: see text]. We provide examples of piecewise convex maps [Formula: see text] with countably infinite number of branches and their approximations by [Formula: see text]’s with finite number of branches. For the increasing values of parameter [Formula: see text] we calculate the errors [Formula: see text].
Well-posedness of a nonlinear acoustics-structure interaction model
Authors: Kaltenbacher Barbara , Tuffaha Amjad
Published: October 2024

We establish local-in-time and global-in-time well-posedness for small data, for a coupled system of nonlinear acoustics-structure interactions. The model consists of the nonlinear Westervelt equation on a bounded domain with nonhomogeneous boundary conditions, coupled with a fourth-order linear equation defined on a lower dimensional interface occupying a part of the boundary of the domain, with transmission boundary conditions matching acoustic velocities and acoustic pressures. While the well-posedness of the Westervelt model has been well studied in the literature, there has been no works in the literature on well-posedness of acoustics-structure interaction models involving the Westervelt equation. Another contribution of this work, is a novel variational weak formulation of the linearized system and a consideration of various boundary conditions.