bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation and Electrochemical Performance of NiCo2O4 and Its Composite Material as Cathode Material for Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries
Authors: Wu Miao , Zhao Gui-Qing , Qiu Zhong-Zhu , Wang Bao-Feng
Published: February 2022

Lithium-ion batteries are the most widely used in commercial applications. However, the scarcity of resources and high price seriously restrict the development of lithium-ion batteries. The aqueous zinc-ion batteries have higher ionic conductivity, environmental stability, safety and
high storage of zinc. The present study demonstrates a novel material of aqueous zinc-ion batteries by which NiCo2O4/CNT material was prepared by solvothermal method + calcination method. At the current density of 100 mA·g−1, the specific discharge capacity of NiCo2O4/CNT
positive electrode is 99.2 mAh·g−1 for the first time, and 57.8 mAh·g−1 after 300 cycles, while only 5.6 mAh·g−1 remains in the positive electrode of NiCo2O4. This is due to the excellent conductivity
of CNT, improve the conductivity of the composite material. It also increases the specific surface area of the material. The active sites of Zn2+ adsorption/desorption were increased, and the specific capacitance of the material was also increased. The volume change of electrode
material caused by electrode reaction is inhibited, and the stability of the material is improved. This study highlights that the combination of NiCo2O4 material and multiwalled carbon nanotube improves the performance of aqueous zinc-ion batteries, which can guide the
future design of stream zinc-ion batteries.
Highly Sensitive Acetone Sensor Based on LaFeO3 Microspheres Prepared by Facile Hydrothermal Synthesis
Authors: Zhong Zhicheng , Jing Zhao-Jun , Xu Yang
Published: February 2022

This paper describes a gas sensor based on LaFeO3 nanoparticles for sensitive detection of low-concentration acetone. LaFeO3 nanoparticles were synthesized via a one-step hydrothermal reaction and subsequent annealing. The sample phases and morphologies were investigated
by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and the Brunauer—Emmett—Teller method. The results show that the LaFeO3 nanoparticles were spherical with a loose porous structure. Gas sensors based on the LaFeO3 nanoparticles were prepared and their gas
sensitivities were determined. In particular, the fabricated sensor based on LaFeO3 nanoparticles annealed at 600 °C showed an excellent response to acetone at 1–300 ppm, and high stability and selectivity. A response of 4.53 toward acetone gas down to 1 ppm at an operating
temperature of 120 °C was obtained. This enhanced gas-sensing performance is attributed to a specific mesoporous structure of high roughness, a large surface area, and surface pores of an appropriate size. These properties enable more favorable conditions were provided for gas reaction.
Synthesis of Mn(OH)2 Nanosheets on Carbon Cloth for High-Performance Aqueous Zinc-Ion Battery
Authors: Zhang Zhupeng , Tang Chunmei , Zhang Kaixiao , Li Hao , Cao Jie , Shao Zhibin , Gong Jiangfeng
Published: February 2022

Rechargeable aqueous zinc ion battery has attracted renewed interest for large-scale energy storage system. However, the cathodic electrode material limits the battery capacity and thus the overall energy density. Herein, The layered Mn(OH)2 nanosheets were prepared on carbon
cloth via direct electrodeposition. The Mn(OH)2 nanosheets show excellent electrochemical performance, including a high specific discharge capacity of 188.13 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 and great long term cycle stability (the capacity remains nearly 83.2%
after 1000 cycles). The excellent performances are attributed to Mn(OH)2 nanosheets grown perpendicular to the substrate, which provides a large number of active sites for Zn2+ intercalation/de-intercalation. Furthermore, the layered Mn(OH)2 can be simply produced
based on the cathodic electrolytic electrodeposition which shows great potential in practical application.
Research on Block Matching Three-Dimensional Cooperative Filtering Optical Image Denoising Algorithm Based on Noise Estimation
Authors: Zhang Wen-Li , Zheng Jing-Yue , Liang Kun , Chen Ke-Fan , Zhao Jian-Hai , Liu Jian-Qiang , Wang Yi , Qin Yu-Xin
Published: February 2022

Optical image denoising is one of the important means to improve the overall clarity of the image or highlight the texture details of the target. However, studies have found that the existing optical image denoising algorithms have a good effect on the images with known noise levels,
and have average denoising effects on random noising. Therefore, a novel BM3D optical image denoising algorithm based on noise estimation is proposed. Firstly, the wavelet packet transform is used for the noise estimation of the optical image. Then, according to the noise estimation result,
BM3D is used to realize the denoising analysis of the optical image. Finally, PSNR is used to evaluate the effectiveness of the algorithm. Experiments show that the proposed algorithm not only achieves effective denoising of optical image, but also has strong robustness.
Application of the Multi-Spectral Correlated-K Distribution Model for Oxy-Fuel Combustion
Authors: Hou Longfeng , Zhang Lingfei
Published: February 2022

Thermal radiation is dominant in oxy-fuel combustion technology. When considering the difference between conventional air combustion and burgeoning oxy-fuel combustion caused by diverse components of fuel gas, it is critical to improve the accuracy of numerical simulation for radiation
by CFD. The line-by-line model is considered as the most accurate approach to simulate thermal radiation while it will cost vast calculation resources on the other hand. This approach is applied as a benchmark for the validation of other approximate models in most cases. The corrected-K
distribution method (CK) has attracted considerable attentions in recent years. the NBCk model always has an excellent performance when the temperature gradients are small. However, when the temperature gradient gets higher, the correlation assumption breaks down and leads to non-negligible
errors. To improve the accuracy of the CK model, we introduced a new method called the multi spectral corrected-K distribution model based on the functional data analysis (FDA) in this work. The objective of this MSCK method is to group together wavenumbers according to
the spectral scaling functions defined as the ratio between spectra in different thermophysical states. Over these intervals, the correlation assumption can be considered as nearly exact. Results show that the MSCK model always achieves a better performance on calculation accuracy
while sharing the same computational cost as the traditional CK model.
Self-Powered Wearable Cardiac Stethoscope for Real-Time Monitoring Heart Failure
Authors: Zhang Qiyuan , Zhong Tianyan , Liang Shan , Xue Xinyu
Published: February 2022

Heart failure has a high rate of morbidity and mortality, and the number of the patients all over the world has dramatically increased in recent years. Continuous and long-term cardiac monitoring is particularly important for early diagnosis and prevention. In this work, a new self-powered
wearable cardiac stethoscope based on piezoelectric effect of PVDF film for real-time monitoring heart failure has been realized. The device can be easily attached to the skin and convert tiny vibration of human organs into electric signals without any external power supply (powered by the
mechanical energy of the organ activity). By Fourier transform analysis, the piezoelectric output of the device can indicate the physiological status information of heart. Meanwhile, the sensing capabilities of the device is investigated on different parts of the body and the volunteers with
different ages. The stethoscope achieves high sensitivity, real-time monitoring, and mechanical stability. This self-powered wearable cardiac stethoscope can broaden the application scenarios of the nanogenerators and promote the development of medical science and healthcare industry.
Facile Preparation of MXene/Poly(vinyl alcohol)/N-(2-Hydroxyethyl Acrylamide) Hydrogels with High Tensile Strength for Strain Sensors
Authors: Yuan Wenfeng , Yang Jia , Yuan Mengmeng , Fan Jiacheng , Li Ke , Wang Libo , Zhou Aiguo
Published: February 2022

In this paper, a novel conductive hydrogel was made by a one-pot method at 60 °C for 12 hours in one step without any cross-linking agent. The hydrogel was composited of Ti3C2 MXene nano slices, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and poly-N-(2-hydroxyethyl acrylamide)
(PHEAA), named as MXene/PVA/PHEAA hydrogel. Compared with previous methods to make MXene hydrogel, this one-pot method was facile and fast. The as-prepared hydrogel was highly stretchable with the breaking elongation of 1300% and tensile strength of 1.1 MPa. MXene nano sheets dispersed in
the hydrogel formed a three-dimensional conductive network, which increased the strength and conductivity of the gels. The conductivity changed with the gel’s deformation and could be applied as strain sensors. The strain sensors made of the hydrogels were highly stretchable, bendable
and flexible with the response range of 1%–300% and a large gauge factor of 4.23. The sensors can be applied to detect human movements such as finger bending, leg bending, water drinking. The MXene/PVA/PHEAA hydrogel made by this facile one-pot method is promising to make strain sensors
for health detection.
Simulation Research on Particle Collection Efficiency of Electrostatic Precipitators
Authors: Jin Shuo , Gao Meng , Xiao Ji-Xiong , Zhang Xiao-Xing , Han Wen-Hao , Deng Qian-Jun , Guo Ying-Hao , Yang Yang
Published: February 2022

Electrostatic precipitators (ESP) have been widely used to remove particles from exhausted gases in many industrial processes. The performance of ESPs is affected by operating parameters such as inlet velocity, applied voltage and other factors. A numerical method of multi-field coupling
is used to study the influence of different factors on the distributions of electric field and flow field in an ESP. The results show that the particle collection efficiency of 0.1–10 µm particles has a U-shaped distribution relationship with particle size. With the increase
of applied voltage and electrode length, and the decrease of inlet velocity and anode-cathode distance, the particle collection efficiency increases. The established numerical model and corresponding conclusion can provide some guidance for the optimal design of ESPs.
Lifetime Maximization for 5G Mobile Networks Using Secured and Finest Optimal Routing Protocol
Authors: Thirunavukkarasu V. , Senthil Kumar A. , Prakasam P. , Suresh G.
Published: February 2022

The lifetime enhancement of any 5G Wireless Networks is essential to increase the efficacy and also the network performance. Hence, to enhance the lifetime, identifying a reliable routing protocol is the major challenge in any wireless network. In this proposed research, combined optimization
technique named Secured and Finest Optimal Routing (SFOR) protocol is proposed to increase the network lifetime. Therefore, the given scenario is configured as Software Defined Network (SDN) which will configure the network dynamically for efficient management. Three scenario’s of the
routing problem is arrived once, the routing of the mobile node is unidentified to derive a SFOR for maximizing the network lifetime. The arrived three scenario’s are mathematically modeled as Linear Programming (LP) problem and the problems are resolved utilizing the source node routing
strategies. In this research work, the planned SFOR procedure is deployed in addition efficacy is associated through the reported methods. It is detected that the projected SFOR procedure increases the era of the network is 16% and 50% as compared with Virtual Ad hoc Routing Protocol and Path
Collection constructed on Trust Protocol respectively.
An Innovative Concept: Free Energy Harvesting Through Self-Powered Triboelectric Nanogenerator
Authors: Hussain Izhar , Khan Saeed Ahmed , Lakho Shamsuddin , Shah Madad Ali , Ali Ahmed , Altameem Torki , Fouad H. , Akhtar M.S.
Published: February 2022

Globally, the internet of things (IoT) is a concept for the realization, integration, and updating of both the physical and digital world through the use of sensors to obtain accurate data from the environment triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) are shown to be promising for applications
involving self-powered sensors and mechanical energy harvesting. Traditional triboelectric generators harvest energy in contact mood but are not cost-effective. Therefore, in this research article, we report on the design and development of a simple, robust, cost-effective, and novel TENG,
which can provide a maximum power of around 9.89 μW at an external load resistance of 85 MΩ. The fabricated TANG has a maximum open-circuit voltage of 54 V and a short circuit current of 61 μA. As a proof of concept, capacitors of different ratings were charged and
30 LEDs (Light-emitting diode) were powered up through the fabricated TENG. Output results show that the many commercial electronic devices such as a smartwatch, calculator, Remote Keyless Entry (RKE), temperature sensor, pressure sensor and so many low current operating sensors can be powered
up through the fabricated self-powered triboelectric nanogenerator.
Control of Spin-Dependent Dwell Time by δ-Doping for Electron in Embedded Magnetic-Electric-Barrier Nanostructure
Authors: Guo Qing-Meng , Lu Mao-Wang , Yang Shuai-Quan , Qin Ying-Jie , Xie Shi-Shi
Published: February 2022

We report a theoretical investigation on effect of a δ-doping on spin-dependent dwell time for electron in embedded magnetic-electric-barrier nanostructure (EMEBN), which is fabricated by depositing a ferromagnetic stripe and a Schottky-metal stripe on top and bottom of
InAs/AlxIn1−xAs heterostructure, respectively. Dwell time still remains spin related after a δ-doping is comprised in EMEBN by atomic-layer doping. Moreover, due to a δ-doping dependent effective potential experienced by electron in this EMEBN,
both magnitude and sign of spin-polarized dwell time can be controlled by changing δ-doping. Therefore, this EMEBN can serve as a controllable temporal spin splitter for spintronics device applications.
Neglect in Childhood, Problem Behavior in Adulthood
Authors: Dubowitz Howard , Roesch Scott , Lewis Terri , Thompson Richard , English Diana , Kotch Jonathan B.
Published: February 2022

Few studies have reported problem behaviors in adulthood related to the timing of child neglect. The objective was to examine the relationship between classes of child neglect and later behavior. The sample included 473 participants from the prospective Longitudinal Studies of Child Abuse and Neglect (LONGSCAN); their mean age was 23.8 years. They completed an online survey regarding behaviors and experiences in early adulthood. Neglect was assessed via Child Protective Services (CPS) and self-reports of neglect. Latent class analysis (LCA) identified three classes: Late Neglect, Chronic Neglect, and Limited Neglect. There were significant differences between Limited and Late Neglect regarding later intimate partner aggression and violence (IPAV) and psychological distress, and among all classes for criminal behavior. High-risk youth experiencing neglect beginning in mid-adolescence appear especially vulnerable to later criminal behavior, psychological distress, and IPAV. Those working with such youth can help ensure that their needs are adequately met, to prevent or mitigate problems in adulthood.
Shame experienced by self and others: A relational approach
Authors: Lyhne Regitze , Wagoner Brady
Published: February 2022

Building on Burkitt’s (2014) esthetic and relational theory of emotions, this article presents a study that explores how and when shame is experienced, focusing on the role of social and cultural factors in it. People were asked to describe in detail an occasion in which they experienced shame and an occasion in which they observed someone else experiencing it. Following an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis in which the focus is on what the experiences mean to the people having them (i.e., their lifeworld) four dominant themes were identified: Expectations, self-control, feeling exposed, and bodily reactions and empathy. The study showed how these themes are interrelated: the expectations function as a normative frame that defines what behavior is appropriate in a certain situation, which is present in all the cases. Self-control is a tool required to stay within the normative frame, and when one steps outside the frame, shame and other negative feelings can occur, which can lead to a feeling of being exposed. When describing observations of shame, many participants focused on visible, bodily reactions, along with a normative interpretation about what the other person might be feeling in that specific situation. Another interesting tendency is that some participants would describe observed shame that is similar to their own experience of shame. The discussion applies positioning theory to shame and reflects on shaming at a broader societal level.
Visions, Plans, and Schemes: Reconstructing African American St. Louis after the 1927 Tornado
Authors: Hurley Andrew , Murray Eliza
Published: February 2022

This article explores the conflicting claims on urban redevelopment in the aftermath of the 1927 St. Louis tornado. In the Finney Avenue District, a nascent middle-class African American neighborhood, residents saw the post-tornado rebuilding program as an opportunity for civic improvement through the construction of new schools and housing. This grass-roots vision, however, ran up against the objectives and machinations of efficiency-minded city planners and profit-seeking developers. A micro-analysis of the rebuilding process sheds light on the racial politics of early 20th century urban redevelopment as well as the role of natural disasters in reshaping the urban landscape.
A ‘New Arms Race’? Framing China and the U.S.A. in A.I. News Reporting: A Comparative Analysis of the Washington Post and South China Morning Post
Authors: Nguyen Dennis , Hekman Erik
Published: February 2022

This study explores the news framing of A.I., China, and the U.S.A. in two mainstream news outlets: The Washington Post and The South China Morning Post. The main objective is to analyse how both, as parts of different discourse cultures, portray the competition for leadership in A.I. innovation between China and the U.S.A. The study takes a critical look at the media discourse on the ‘new arms race’ and what role the news play in localising global technology trends. The empirical part makes use of a combination of manual and automated content analyses. To this end, a dictionary approach that utilises Names Entity Recognition was applied to a large volume of news texts ( N = 3.055) to identify recurring news frames. The findings show similarities in the perception of A.I.’s potentials and versatility but also clear cultural differences in how risks and conflicts are portrayed in both outlets. Although the Washington Post appears more critical about A.I., the South China Morning Post frames the technology as a driver of economic growth and global influence. The discussion offers a starting point for theorising the relationship between mediatisation, tech trends, cultural differences, and international politics.
Childhood infections and autism spectrum disorders and/or intellectual disability: a register-based cohort study
Authors: Karlsson Håkan , Sjöqvist Hugo , Brynge Martin , Gardner Renee , Dalman Christina
Published: February 2022

Objective

To explore the associations between childhood infections and subsequent diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disability (ID), and their co-occurrence.

Methods

The association between specialized care for any infection, defined by ICD-codes, and later ASD or ID was investigated in a register-based cohort of 556,732 individuals born 1987–2010, resident in Stockholm County, followed from birth to their 18th birthday or December 31, 2016. We considered as potential confounders children’s characteristics, family socioeconomic factors, obstetric complications, and parental histories of treatment for infection and psychiatric disorders in survival analyses with extended Cox regression models. Residual confounding by shared familial factors was addressed in sibling analyses using within-strata estimation in Cox regression models. Sensitivity analyses with the exclusion of congenital causes of ASD/ID and documented risk for infections were also performed.

Results

Crude estimates indicated that infections during childhood were associated with later ASD and ID with the largest risks observed for diagnoses involving ID. Inclusion of covariates, exclusion of congenital causes of ASD/ID from the population, and sibling comparisons highlighted the potential for confounding by both heritable and non-heritable factors, though risks remained in all adjusted models. In adjusted sibling comparisons, excluding congenital causes, infections were associated with later “ASD without ID” (HR 1.24, 95%CI 1.15–1.33), “ASD with ID” (1.57, 1.35–1.82), and “ID without ASD” (2.01, 1.76–2.28). Risks associated with infections varied by age at exposure and by age at diagnosis of ASD/ID.

Conclusions

Infections during childhood may contribute to a later diagnosis of ID and ASD.
The research landscape of tuberous sclerosis complex–associated neuropsychiatric disorders (TAND)—a comprehensive scoping review
Authors: Vanclooster Stephanie , Bissell Stacey , van Eeghen Agnies M. , Chambers Nola , De Waele Liesbeth , Byars Anna W. , Capal Jamie K. , Cukier Sebastián , Davis Peter , Flinn Jennifer , Gardner-Lubbe Sugnet , Gipson Tanjala , Heunis Tosca-Marie , Hook Dena , Kingswood J. Christopher , Krueger Darcy A. , Kumm Aubrey J. , Sahin Mustafa , Schoeters Eva , Smith Catherine , Srivastava Shoba , Takei Megumi , Waltereit Robert , Jansen Anna C. , de Vries Petrus J.
Published: February 2022

Background

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC)–associated neuropsychiatric disorders (TAND) is an umbrella term for the behavioural, psychiatric, intellectual, academic, neuropsychological and psychosocial manifestations of TSC. Although TAND affects 90% of individuals with TSC during their lifetime, these manifestations are relatively under-assessed, under-treated and under-researched. We performed a comprehensive scoping review of all TAND research to date (a) to describe the existing TAND research landscape and (b) to identify knowledge gaps to guide future TAND research.

Methods

The study was conducted in accordance with stages outlined within the Arksey and O’Malley scoping review framework. Ten research questions relating to study characteristics, research design and research content of TAND levels and clusters were examined.

Results

Of the 2841 returned searches, 230 articles published between 1987 and 2020 were included (animal studies = 30, case studies = 47, cohort studies = 153), with more than half published since the term TAND was coined in 2012 (118/230; 51%). Cohort studies largely involved children and/or adolescents (63%) as opposed to older adults (16%). Studies were represented across 341 individual research sites from 45 countries, the majority from the USA (89/341; 26%) and the UK (50/341; 15%). Only 48 research sites (14%) were within low–middle income countries (LMICs). Animal studies and case studies were of relatively high/high quality, but cohort studies showed significant variability. Of the 153 cohort studies, only 16 (10%) included interventions. None of these were non-pharmacological, and only 13 employed remote methodologies (e.g. telephone interviews, online surveys). Of all TAND clusters, the autism spectrum disorder–like cluster was the most widely researched (138/230; 60%) and the scholastic cluster the least (53/200; 27%).

Conclusions

Despite the recent increase in TAND research, studies that represent participants across the lifespan, LMIC research sites and non-pharmacological interventions were identified as future priorities. The quality of cohort studies requires improvement, to which the use of standardised direct behavioural assessments may contribute. In human studies, the academic level in particular warrants further investigation. Remote technologies could help to address many of the TAND knowledge gaps identified.
Pharmacodynamic evaluation and safety assessment of treatment with antibodies to serum amyloid P component in patients with cardiac amyloidosis: an open-label Phase 2 study and an adjunctive immuno-PET imaging study
Authors: Wechalekar Ashutosh , Antoni Gunnar , Al Azzam Wasfi , Bergström Mats , Biswas Swethajit , Chen Chao , Cheriyan Joseph , Cleveland Matthew , Cookson Louise , Galette Paul , Janiczek Robert L. , Kwong Raymond Y. , Lukas Mary Ann , Millns Helen , Richards Duncan , Schneider Ian , Solomon Scott D. , Sörensen Jens , Storey James , Thompson Douglas , van Dongen Guus , Vugts Danielle J. , Wall Anders , Wikström Gerhard , Falk Rodney H.
Published: February 2022

Background

In a Phase I study treatment with the serum amyloid P component (SAP) depleter miridesap followed by monoclonal antibody to SAP (dezamizumab) showed removal of amyloid from liver, spleen and kidney in patients with systemic amyloidosis. We report results from a Phase 2 study and concurrent immuno-positron emission tomography (PET) study assessing efficacy, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, safety and cardiac uptake (of dezamizumab) following the same intervention in patients with cardiac amyloidosis.

Methods

Both were uncontrolled open-label studies. After SAP depletion with miridesap, patients received ≤ 6 monthly doses of dezamizumab in the Phase 2 trial (n = 7), ≤ 2 doses of non-radiolabelled dezamizumab plus [89Zr]Zr-dezamizumab (total mass dose of 80 mg at session 1 and 500 mg at session 2) in the immuno-PET study (n = 2). Primary endpoints of the Phase 2 study were changed from baseline to follow-up (at 8 weeks) in left ventricular mass (LVM) by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and safety. Primary endpoint of the immuno-PET study was [89Zr]Zr-dezamizumab cardiac uptake assessed via PET.

Results

Dezamizumab produced no appreciable or consistent reduction in LVM nor improvement in cardiac function in the Phase 2 study. In the immuno-PET study, measurable cardiac uptake of [89Zr]Zr-dezamizumab, although seen in both patients, was moderate to low. Uptake was notably lower in the patient with higher LVM. Treatment-associated rash with cutaneous small-vessel vasculitis was observed in both studies. Abdominal large-vessel vasculitis after initial dezamizumab dosing (300 mg) occurred in the first patient with immunoglobulin light chain amyloidosis enrolled in the Phase 2 study. Symptom resolution was nearly complete within 24 h of intravenous methylprednisolone and dezamizumab discontinuation; abdominal computed tomography imaging showed vasculitis resolution by 8 weeks.

Conclusions

Unlike previous observations of visceral amyloid reduction, there was no appreciable evidence of amyloid removal in patients with cardiac amyloidosis in this Phase 2 trial, potentially related to limited cardiac uptake of dezamizumab as demonstrated in the immuno-PET study. The benefit-risk assessment for dezamizumab in cardiac amyloidosis was considered unfavourable after the incidence of large-vessel vasculitis and development for this indication was terminated.

Trial registration NCT03044353 (2 February 2017) and NCT03417830 (25 January 2018).
Cumulative incidence and predictors of acquired aortic stenosis in a large population of men followed for up to 43 years
Authors: Kontogeorgos Silvana , Thunström Erik , Lappas Georgios , Rosengren Annika , Fu Michael
Published: February 2022

Background

Acquired aortic stenosis (AS) increases with age and has high mortality without intervention. Factors predicting its development are unclear, although atherosclerotic factors are assumed to be involved. Our aim in this study is to estimate the lifetime cumulative incidence and predictors of AS in middle-aged men.

Methods

We included a random sample of men (n = 9998) born 1915–1925 in Gothenburg, Sweden. From them, 7,494 were examined and followed until a diagnosis of AS or death (maximum follow-up time 42.8 years). We identified AS diagnosis from the Swedish National Patient Registry and deaths from the Swedish Cause of Death Registry by using International Classification of Disease (ICD) diagnostic criteria. To study time-dependent relationships between AS and risk factors with death as the competing risk, we divided the cohort into three overlapping follow-up groups: 25–43, 30–43 and 35–43 years. We used age-adjusted Cox proportional hazards model to identify predictors of AS.

Results

The lifelong cumulative incidence of AS was 3.2%. At baseline, participants in the third group had a healthier lifestyle, lower body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, and serum cholesterol levels. Higher BMI, obesity, cholesterol, hypertension, atrial fibrillation, smoking and heredity for stroke were associated with AS. With BMI of 20–22.5 as a reference, hazard ratios of being diagnosed with AS for men with a baseline BMI of 25–27.5 kg/m2, 27.5–30 kg/m2 and > 30 kg/m2 were 1.99 (95% CI 1.12–3.55), 2.98 (95% CI 1.65–5.40) and 3.55 (95% CI 1.84–6.87), respectively.

Conclusions

The lifetime cumulative incidence of AS in middle-aged male population was 3.2%. Multiple atherosclerotic risk factors, particularly high BMI might be associated with a higher risk of developing AS.
Risk of aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection with the use of fluoroquinolones in Korea: a nested case–control study
Authors: Son Nayeong , Choi Eunmi , Chung Soo Youn , Han Soon Young , Kim Bonggi
Published: February 2022

Background

Recent studies have raised concern about the association of fluoroquinolones with an increased risk of aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection. We aimed to evaluate such risk in a Korean population.

Methods

We conducted a nested case–control study using data from the National Health Insurance Service collected from 2013 to 2017 in Korea. The study cohort included patients older than 40 years and excluded patients who had used fluoroquinolones or been diagnosed with aortic aneurysm, aortic dissection, or related diseases 1 year prior to the cohort entry date. We randomly matched four controls in the risk set with each case of aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection (same sex, age, and cohort entry date). We assessed the risk of aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection from fluoroquinolones and adjusted for potential confounders using a conditional logistic regression model.

Results

A total of 29,638 aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection patients were identified between 2014 and 2017. The use of fluoroquinolones within a year was associated with a 10% increased risk of aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection (adjusted odds ratio: 1.10, 95% CI 1.07–1.14, p < 0.05) compared with nonusers. The risk was higher in patients who had used fluoroquinolones within 60 days (adjusted odds ratio: 1.53, 95% CI 1.46–1.62, p < 0.05). The risk of aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection positively correlated with the cumulative dose and duration of fluoroquinolone therapy (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our study provides real-world evidence of the risk of aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection from fluoroquinolones in Korea. Patients and medical professionals should be aware that fluoroquinolones can increase the risk of aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection, which may be acerbated by high dosage and duration of use.
The systemic-immune-inflammation index predicts the recurrence of atrial fibrillation after cryomaze concomitant with mitral valve surgery
Authors: Luo Yu , Zhang Jian , Liu Tao , Yin Zongtao , Jin Yan , Han Jinsong , Guo Zhipeng , Wang Huishan
Published: February 2022

Background and aims

Inflammation plays a key role in the initiation and progression of atrial fibrillation (AF). The systemic inflammation indexes are easily evaluated and predict AF development. However, it’s role in prediction of recurrence of AF is unknown. We aim to explore the association between the systemic inflammation indexes and recurrence of AF in patients underwent cryoablation (CryoMaze) concomitant with mitral valve surgery.

Methods

We examined systemic inflammation indexes during perioperative period in 122 patients between 2015 and 2018. Systemic inflammation indexes were developed by systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and lymphocytes to monocytes ratio. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to examine the association of each markers with recurrence of AF.

Results

Of the 122 patients included in this study, 22 patients (18%) experienced AF recurrence after CryoMaze concomitant with mitral valve surgery. There is no significant difference between each systemic inflammation indexes before surgery and recurrence of AF. In univariate analysis, MLR after surgery 3 days, PLR, MPLR, NLR, SII after surgery 7 days were able to predict recurrence of AF. In multivariate analyses, SII ≥ 1696 independently predicted recurrence (OR, 3.719; 95% CI, 1.417–9.760). Interestingly, baseline SII showed no significant in prediction of recurrence. It was sharply elevated after surgery and dropped slowly. In patients of recurrence, SII after 7 days of surgery increased again.

Conclusions

The raised SII again was associated with an increased risk of the postoperative recurrence of AF and independently predicted the late recurrence of AF after CryoMaze concomitant with mitral valve surgery.
Endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy versus laparoscopic appendectomy versus open appendectomy for acute appendicitis: a pilot study
Authors: Shen Zhemin , Sun Peilong , Jiang Miao , Zhen Zili , Liu Jingtian , Ye Mu , Huang Weida
Published: February 2022

Background

An increasing number of studies have shown the merits of endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy (ERAT) in diagnosing and treating acute uncomplicated appendicitis. However, no related prospective controlled studies have been reported yet. Our aim is to assess the feasibility and safety of ERAT in the treatment of acute uncomplicated appendicitis.

Methods

In this open-label, randomized trial, participants were randomly allocated to the ERAT group, laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) group and open appendectomy (OA) group. The primary outcome was the clinical success rate of the treatment. Intention-to-treat analysis was used in the study.

Results

The study comprised of 99 patients, with 33 participants in each group. The clinical success rate was 87.88% (29/33), 96.97% (32/33) and 100% (33/33) in the ERAT, LA and OA group, respectively. In the ERAT group, 4 patients failed ERAT due to difficult cannulation. In LA group, 1 patient failed because of abdominal adhesion. There were no significant differences among the three treatment groups regarding the clinical success rate (P = 0.123). The median duration of follow-up was 22 months. There were no significant differences (P = 0.693) among the three groups in terms of adverse events and the final crossover rate of ERAT to surgery was 21.21% (7/33).

Conclusion

ERAT can serve as an alternative and efficient method to treat acute uncomplicated appendicitis.

Trial registration The study is registered with the WHO Primary Registry-Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1900025812).
Higher uric acid serum levels are associated with sarcopenia in west China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Liu Xiaolei , Chen Xiaoyan , Hu Fengjuan , Xia Xin , Hou Lisha , Zhang Gongchang , Peng Xuchao , Sun Xuelian , Luo Shuyue , Yue Jirong , Dong Birong
Published: February 2022

Background

Sarcopenia is the decline in muscle strength and mass attributed to aging. The pathogenesis of sarcopenia may be triggered by oxidative stress and uric acid (UA) has strong antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between UA and sarcopenia in community-dwelling adults of West China using the baseline data of West China Health and Aging Trend (WCHAT) study.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Methods

4236 adults aged 50 years or older in communities of west China were enrolled in this study. We applied Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) 2019 criteria to define sarcopenia. Muscle mass was measured using skeletal muscle index (SMI) based on bioimpedance analysis (BIA). Handgrip strength (HGS) and gait speed (GS) were recorded, respectively. Different variables like anthropometry measures, life styles, chronic disease and blood test were collected. General linear model was done to investigate the relationship between UA and HGS/GS/SMI, adjusting age, ethnic groups, sleeping quality, education level, cognitive function, smoking history, drinking history, ADL score, and chronic disease.

Results

Participants were grouped according to UA quartiles by gender. After adjusting for potential confounders, a negative association between serum UA levels and sarcopenia was shown both in men and women. And a significant association between serum UA levels and HGS in women was shown as an inverted J shape. Besides, a positive association between the UA quartiles and SMI was observed, irrespective of gender.

Conclusions

Our results showed that higher uric acid levels were significantly correlated with higher muscle mass and grip strength among Chinese adults aged over 50. Higher UA serum levels might slow down the progression of sarcopenia.
RT-PCR negative COVID-19
Authors: Parmar Heta , Montovano Margaret , Banada Padmapriya , Pentakota Sri Ram , Shiau Stephanie , Ma Zhongjie , Saibire Kaheerman , Chopoorian Abby , O’Shaughnessy Michael , Hirsch Mitchell , Jain Priyanshi , Demirdjian Gaiane , Karagueuzian Magali , Robin Thomas , Salvati Michael , Patel Bhavana , Alland David , Xie Yingda L.
Published: February 2022

Background

COVID-19 is a multi-system infection with emerging evidence-based antiviral and anti-inflammatory therapies to improve disease prognosis. However, a subset of patients with COVID-19 signs and symptoms have repeatedly negative RT-PCR tests, leading to treatment hesitancy. We used comparative serology early in the COVID-19 pandemic when background seroprevalence was low to estimate the likelihood of COVID-19 infection among RT-PCR negative patients with clinical signs and/or symptoms compatible with COVID-19.

Methods

Between April and October 2020, we conducted serologic testing of patients with (i) signs and symptoms of COVID-19 who were repeatedly negative by RT-PCR (‘Probables’; N = 20), (ii) signs and symptoms of COVID-19 but with a potential alternative diagnosis (‘Suspects’; N = 15), (iii) no signs and symptoms of COVID-19 (‘Non-suspects’; N = 43), (iv) RT-PCR confirmed COVID-19 patients (N = 40), and (v) pre-pandemic samples (N = 55).

Results

Probables had similar seropositivity and levels of IgG and IgM antibodies as propensity-score matched RT-PCR confirmed COVID-19 patients (60.0% vs 80.0% for IgG, p-value = 0.13; 50.0% vs 72.5% for IgM, p-value = 0.10), but multi-fold higher seropositivity rates than Suspects and matched Non-suspects (60.0% vs 13.3% and 11.6% for IgG; 50.0% vs 0% and 4.7% for IgM respectively; p-values < 0.01). However, Probables were half as likely to receive COVID-19 treatment than the RT-PCR confirmed COVID-19 patients with similar disease severity.

Conclusions

Findings from this study indicate a high likelihood of acute COVID-19 among RT-PCR negative with typical signs/symptoms, but a common omission of COVID-19 therapies among these patients. Clinically diagnosed COVID-19, independent of RT-PCR positivity, thus has a potential vital role in guiding treatment decisions.
Machine-learning based prediction of prognostic risk factors in patients with invasive candidiasis infection and bacterial bloodstream infection: a singled centered retrospective study
Authors: Li Yaling , Wu Yutong , Gao Yali , Niu Xueli , Li Jingyi , Tang Mingsui , Fu Chang , Qi Ruiqun , Song Bing , Chen Hongduo , Gao Xinghua , Yang Ying , Guan Xiuhao
Published: February 2022

Background

Invasive candidal infection combined with bacterial bloodstream infection is one of the common nosocomial infections that is also the main cause of morbidity and mortality. The incidence of invasive Candidal infection with bacterial bloodstream infection is increasing year by year worldwide, but data on China is still limited.

Methods

We included 246 hospitalised patients who had invasive candidal infection combined with a bacterial bloodstream infection from January 2013 to January 2018; we collected and analysed the relevant epidemiological information and used machine learning methods to find prognostic factors related to death (training set and test set were randomly allocated at a ratio of 7:3).

Results

Of the 246 patients with invasive candidal infection complicated with a bacterial bloodstream infection, the median age was 63 years (53.25–74), of which 159 (64.6%) were male, 109 (44.3%) were elderly patients (> 65 years), 238 (96.7%) were hospitalised for more than 10 days, 168 (68.3%) were admitted to ICU during hospitalisation, and most patients had records of multiple admissions within 2 years (167/246, 67.9%). The most common blood index was hypoproteinemia (169/246, 68.7%), and the most common inducement was urinary catheter use (210/246, 85.4%). Moreover, the most frequently infected fungi and bacteria were Candida parapsilosis and Acinetobacter baumannii, respectively. The main predictors of death prognosis by machine learning method are serum creatinine level, age, length of stay, stay in ICU during hospitalisation, serum albumin level, C-Reactive protein (CRP), leukocyte count, neutrophil count, Procalcitonin (PCT), and total bilirubin level.

Conclusion

Our results showed that the most common candida and bacteria infections were caused by Candida parapsilosis and Acinetobacter baumannii, respectively. The main predictors of death prognosis are serum creatinine level, age, length of stay, stay in ICU during hospitalisation, serum albumin level, CRP, leukocyte count, neutrophil count, PCT and total bilirubin level.
Different lens power calculation formulas for the prediction of refractive outcome after phacoemulsification with silicone oil removal
Authors: Hou Yanan , Liu Lei , Wang Gang , Xie Junwei , Wang Yi
Published: February 2022

Background

Formulas predicting intraocular lens power have not been compared in silicone oil-tamponaded eyes. The study aims to compare six intraocular lens power assessment formulas in silicone oil-tamponaded eyes.

Methods

This prospective study included patients with silicone oil-tamponaded eyes scheduled for silicone oil removal, phacoemulsification, and intraocular lens implantation at Chongqing Aier Eye Hospital (June 2019 to December 2019). Implanted intraocular lens power was used to predict postsurgical spherical equivalence using SRK/T, Holladay 1, Holladay 2, Haigis, Hoffer Q, and Barrett Universal II, and assess those formula’s predictive accuracy with predictive error.

Results

The analysis included 47 eyes in 47 patients (28 and 19 eyes with normal and long axial length, respectively). Postoperative spherical equivalence at 6 months in normal and long axial length eyes was − 0.6 ± 0.96 and − 0.8 ± 1.52 D, respectively. Predictive error values for SRK/T, Holladay 1, Holladay 2, Haigis, and Hoffer Q and Barrett Universal II were − 0.18 ± 0.92, − 0.15 ± 0.88, − 0.06 ± 0.94, − 0.15 ± 0.87, and − 0.05 ± 0.90 D and − 0.06 ± 0.90, respectively, for normal axial length eyes and 0.15 ± 1.16, 0.46 ± 1.17, 0.28 ± 1.11, − 0.04 ± 1.12, 0.49 ± 1.09 D and 0.11 ± 0.99, respectively, for long axial length eyes. For normal axial length eyes, predicted outcomes were similar to actual outcomes for all formulas. For long axial length eyes, predicted outcomes differed significantly from measured postsurgical values for Holladay 1, Holladay 2, and Hoffer Q (P < 0.05) but not SRK/T or Haigis or Barrett Universal II .

Conclusions

The formulas had comparable predictive accuracy in silicone oil-tamponaded eyes with normal axial length, but Haigis or SRK/T or Barrett Universal II may be preferable in long axial length eyes.

Trial registration

ChiCTR1900023215.
Adapting and testing a brief intervention to reduce maternal anxiety during pregnancy (ACORN): report of a feasibility randomized controlled trial
Authors: O’Mahen Heather A. , Ramchandani Paul G. , King Dorothy X. , Lee-Carbon Leonie , Wilkinson Esther L. , Thompson-Booth Chloe , Ericksen Jennifer , Milgrom Jeannette , Dunkley-Bent Jacqueline , Halligan Sarah L. , Fearon Pasco
Published: February 2022

Background

We investigated the acceptability and feasibility of a new brief intervention for maternal prenatal anxiety within maternity services in London and Exeter, UK.

Methods

One hundred fourteen pregnant individuals attending their 12-week scan at a prenatal clinic with elevated symptoms of anxiety (GAD-7 score of ≥7) were randomly assigned to either the ACORN intervention + Treatment as usual (TAU) (n = 57) or to usual care only (n = 57). The ACORN intervention consisted of 3 2-h group sessions, led by a midwife and psychological therapist, for pregnant individuals and their partners. The intervention included psychoeducation about anxiety, strategies for problem-sovling and tolerating uncertainty during pregnancy, including communicating about these with others, and mindfulness exercises.

Results

Engagement rates with ACORN met or exceeded those in primary care services in England. In the intervention arm, 77% (n = 44) of participants attended at least one session, 51% (n = 29) were adherent, defined as attending two or more sessions. Feedback was positive, and participants in the ACORN treatment group demonstrated evidence of a larger drop in their levels of anxiety than the participants in the TAU-only group (Cohen’s d = 0.42).

Conclusion

The ACORN intervention was acceptable to pregnant individuals and their partners and resulted in reductions in anxiety. With further evaluation in a larger-scale trial with child outcomes, there is significant potential for large scale public health benefit.
Pro-inflammatory diet and depressive symptoms in the healthcare setting
Authors: Belliveau Rachel , Horton Sydney , Hereford Courtney , Ridpath Lance , Foster Robert , Boothe Emily
Published: February 2022

Background

Depression is a highly prevalent disease affecting more than 350 million people and has recently been associated with low-grade chronic inflammation. The role of diet in the development of a pro-inflammatory state was demonstrated in a recent study that found a high Empirical Dietary Inflammatory Index (EDII) score was associated with increased concentrations of circulating plasma inflammatory markers. It is becoming increasingly clear that diet and depression are linked, but the relationship itself has not been determined with absolute certainty. Pharmacologic and device assisted therapies are considered our most advanced treatments for major depressive disorder, though numerous studies suggest that they are not sufficient. Exploring the relationship of a pro-inflammatory diet and depressive symptoms is crucial for a holistic, evidenced-based approach to treating depression.

Methods

Our study investigated this association using the EDII to evaluate the inflammatory potential of diet and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) to score depression among healthcare personnel. Results from 631 participants were collected for analysis using REDCap software.

Results

High PHQ-9 scores and high EDII scores were significantly correlated (F = 18.32, p < 0.0001) even when accounting for gender, psychiatric diagnosis, physical exercise, and spiritual exercise.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that anti-inflammatory diets can play a key role in the treatment of depression.