bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Intravenous Lidocaine on Isoflurane Concentration, Physiological Parameters, Metabolic Parameters and Stress‐related Hormones in Horses Undergoing Surgery
Authors: Dzikiti T. B. , Hellebrekers L. J. , van Dijk P.
Published: May 2003

Physiological parameters, metabolic parameters and stress‐related hormones are evaluated in horses anaesthetized with isoflurane in oxygen combined with lidocaine intravenously. Two groups of horses anaesthetized with isoflurane (six horses in each group) were studied: a lidocaine group (IL), which received intravenous lidocaine and a control group (C), which received intravenous saline. Horses in both groups were pre‐medicated with detomidine (IV), and anaesthesia was induced with midazolam‐ketamine (IV). The lidocaine group received intravenous lidocaine as a loading dose of 2.5 mg kg−1 at 15 min after induction of anaesthesia directly followed by a maintenance dosage of 50 μ kg−1 min−1, while the control group received saline (IV) following the same regime. End‐tidal isoflurane and standard physiological parameters were measured. Blood was sampled for measurement of lidocaine, stress hormones and metabolic parameters. The end‐tidal isoflurane concentration in the lidocaine group was 0.96 ± 0.06% versus 1.28 ± 0.06% (mean ± SD) in the control group, a significant (P < 0.05) reduction of 25%. No significant differences were found regarding stress‐related hormones, metabolic and physiological parameters. This study suggests that the use of lidocaine to decrease the concentration of isoflurane to obtain a sufficient surgical anaesthesia has no subsequent effects on physiological and metabolic parameters or stress‐related hormones.
Use of bisphosphonate therapy for osteoporosis in childhood and adolescence*
Authors: Batch JA , Couper JJ , Rodda C , Cowell CT , Zacharin M
Published: May 2003

Abstract:  Congenital and acquired forms of osteoporosis in childhood and adolescence can result in morbidity from fracture and pain in childhood, and place an individual at significant risk for problems in adult life. A range of therapies exist for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, including optimization of daily calcium intake, adequate vitamin D status, weight‐bearing exercise, treatment with sex steroids where delayed puberty is a problem and, more recently, use of bisphosphonate therapy. Intravenous pamidronate therapy (a bisphosphonate) has been shown to reduce fractures and improve bone density in children with osteogenesis imperfecta, and might prove to be of benefit in other osteoporotic conditions in childhood. However, a number of issues regarding the optimal use of bisphosphonate therapy in children and adolescents remain to be resolved, including total annual dose and frequency and duration of administration. Bisphosphonate therapy should, therefore, be used only in the context of a well‐run clinical programme with specialist knowledge in the management of osteopenic disorders in childhood.
Determinants of HIV-1 Mutational Escape From Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes
Authors: Yang Otto O. , Sarkis Phuong Thi Nguyen , Ali Ayub , Harlow Jason D. , Brander Christian , Kalams Spyros A. , Walker Bruce D.
Published: May 2003

CD8+ class I–restricted cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) usually incompletely suppress HIV-1 in vivo, and while analogous partial suppression induces antiretroviral drug-resistance mutations, epitope escape mutations are inconsistently observed. However, escape mutation depends on the net balance of selective pressure and mutational fitness costs, which are poorly understood and difficult to study in vivo. Here we used a controlled in vitro system to evaluate the ability of HIV-1 to escape from CTL clones, finding that virus replicating under selective pressure rapidly can develop phenotypic resistance associated with genotypic changes. Escape varied between clones recognizing the same Gag epitope or different Gag and RT epitopes, indicating the influence of the T cell receptor on pressure and fitness costs. Gag and RT escape mutations were monoclonal intra-epitope substitutions, indicating limitation by fitness constraints in structural proteins. In contrast, escape from Nef-specific CTL was more rapid and consistent, marked by a polyclonal mixture of epitope point mutations and upstream frameshifts. We conclude that incomplete viral suppression by CTL can result in rapid emergence of immune escape, but the likelihood is strongly determined by factors influencing the fitness costs of the particular epitope targeted and the ability of responding CTL to recognize specific epitope variants.
An Essential Role of Cytosolic Phospholipase A2α in Prostaglandin E2–mediated Bone Resorption Associated with Inflammation
Authors: Miyaura Chisato , Inada Masaki , Matsumoto Chiho , Ohshiba Tomoyasu , Uozumi Naonori , Shimizu Takao , Ito Akira
Published: May 2003

Prostaglandin E (PGE)2 produced by osteoblasts acts as a potent stimulator of bone resorption. Inflammatory bone loss is accompanied by osteoclast formation induced by bone-resorbing cytokines, but the mechanism of PGE2 production and bone resorption in vivo is not fully understood. Using cytosolic phospholipase A2α (cPLA2α)-null mice, we examined the role of cPLA2α in PGE2 synthesis and bone resorption. In bone marrow cultures, interleukin (IL)-1 markedly stimulated PGE2 production and osteoclast formation in wild-type mice, but not in cPLA2α-null mice. Osteoblastic bone marrow stromal cells induced the expression of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 and membrane-bound PGE2 synthase (mPGES) in response to IL-1 and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to produce PGE2. Osteoblastic stromal cells collected from cPLA2α-null mice also induced the expression of COX-2 and mPGES by IL-1 and LPS, but could not produce PGE2 due to the lack of arachidonic acid release. LPS administration to wild-type mice reduced femoral bone mineral density by increased bone resorption. In cPLA2α-null mice, however, LPS-induced bone loss could not be observed at all. Here, we show that cPLA2α plays a key role in PGE production by osteoblasts and in osteoclastic bone resorption, and suggest a new approach to inflammatory bone disease by inhibiting cPLA2α.
Keynesian Comparative Economics:
Authors: A. Canova Timothy , P. Holt Richard , N. Horn Robert , Rosser J. Barkley , Rosser Marina V.
Published: May 2003

ABSTRACT. The authors of this article review the late E. Lynn Turgeon's contributions to economics, including his studies of the Soviet economy, use of qualitative and demographic analyses, his Keynesian critique of U.S. economic performance, and his critique of international financial markets. Turgeon's comparative approach led to unique insights about the challenges that confronted planned economies, including the differential impact of military spending on the demand‐constrained economy of the United States and the supply‐constrained economy of the Soviet Union. His study of the Soviet and planned economies also informed his analysis of the U.S. economy and international adjustment mechanisms. Turgeon argued for expansionary fiscal and neutral monetary policies, prudential restrictions on portfolio capital flows, and increased foreign direct investment and foreign assistance to shift the burdens of adjustment from deficit to surplus countries. Throughout his career, Turgeon measured economic policies by their effects on real people, including impacts on employment, the environment, living standards, and distributions of income and wealth.
Out with the Old, In with the Old: A Closer Look at Younger Versus Older Elderly Migration*
Authors: Conway Karen Smith , Houtenville Andrew J.
Published: May 2003

Objective. This research examines the migration behavior of the elderly, recognizing that the older and younger elderly may make different decisions and have different consequences for the states in which they live.

Methods. Using U.S. Census migration flow data, we describe the movements of the younger and older elderly. Our econometric analysis brings together the wisdom of elderly migration research that focuses on motives (amenity vs. return/assistance) and the Tiebout‐related research that considers the effects of policy.

Results. We find that all elderly age groups avoid moving to states with high estate/inheritance/gift taxes, although the effect weakens with age. Likewise, the younger elderly appear to be “shopping around” for destinations with a temperate climate and favorable government policies regarding income taxes and welfare spending, whereas the older elderly are more likely to be “driven out” of their origin state by a high cost of living and income and property taxes.

Conclusions. Our findings suggest that both the patterns of migration and the factors that affect migration decisions differ between the younger and older elderly.
LEWIS–RIESENFELD PHASES AND BERRY PHASES FOR THE HARMONIC OSCILLATOR WITH TIME-DEPENDENT FREQUENCY AND BOUNDARY CONDITIONS
Authors: LI LING , LI BO-ZANG
Published: May 2003

We use Lewis and Riesenfeld's quantum invariant theory to calculate the Lewis–Riesenfeld phases for a time-dependent frequency harmonic oscillator that is confined between a fixed boundary and a moving one. We also discuss the Berry phase for the system with a sinusoidally oscillating boundary.
POSITIVE MODEL THEORY AND COMPACT ABSTRACT THEORIES
Authors: BEN-YAACOV ITAY
Published: May 2003

We develop positive model theory, which is a non first order analogue of classical model theory where compactness is kept at the expense of negation. The analogue of a first order theory in this framework is a compact abstract theory: several equivalent yet conceptually different presentations of this notion are given. We prove in particular that Banach and Hilbert spaces are compact abstract theories, and in fact very well-behaved as such.
PRIMITIVE INDEPENDENCE RESULTS
Authors: FRIEDMAN HARVEY M.
Published: May 2003

We present some new set and class theoretic independence results from ZFC and NBGC that are particularly simple and close to the primitives of membership and equality (see Secs. 4 and 5). They are shown to be equivalent to familiar small large cardinal hypotheses. We modify these independendent statements in order to give an example of a sentence in set theory with 5 quantifiers which is independent of ZFC (see Sec. 6). It is known that all 3 quantifier sentences are decided in a weak fragment of ZF without power set (see [4]).
Physical Activity in Relation to Cardiovascular Disease and Total Mortality Among Men With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Tanasescu Mihaela , Leitzmann Michael F. , Rimm Eric B. , Hu Frank B.
Published: May 2003

Background—

The present study was conducted to examine the relationship of physical activity with risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality among men with type 2 diabetes. CVD risk and mortality are increased in type 2 diabetes. Few epidemiological studies have investigated the effect of physical activity on these outcomes among type 2 diabetics.

Methods and Results—

Of the 3058 men who reported a diagnosis of diabetes at age 30 years or older in the Health Professionals’ Follow-up Study (HPFS), we excluded 255 who reported a physical impairment. In the remaining 2803 men, physical activity was assessed every 2 years; 266 new cases of CVD and 355 deaths of all causes were identified during 14 years of follow-up. Relative risks of CVD and death were estimated from Cox proportional hazards analysis with adjustment for potential confounders. The multivariate relative risks of CVD incidence corresponding to quintiles of total physical activity were 1.0, 0.87, 0.64, 0.72, and 0.67 (
P
trend
=0.07). The corresponding multivariate relative risks for total mortality were 1.0, 0.80, 0.57, 0.58, and 0.58 (
P
trend
=0.005). Walking was associated with reduced risk of total mortality. Relative risks across quintiles of walking were 1.0, 0.97, 0.87, 0.97, and 0.57 (
P
trend
=0.002). Walking pace was inversely associated with CVD, fatal CVD, and total mortality independently of walking hours.

Conclusions—

Physical activity was associated with reduced risk of CVD, cardiovascular death, and total mortality in men with type 2 diabetes. Walking and walking pace were associated with reduced total mortality.
Serum N-Terminal Pro–Brain Natriuretic Peptide Is a Sensitive Marker of Myocardial Dysfunction in AL Amyloidosis
Authors: Palladini Giovanni , Campana Carlo , Klersy Catherine , Balduini Alessandra , Vadacca Giovanbattista , Perfetti Vittorio , Perlini Stefano , Obici Laura , Ascari Edoardo , d’Eril Gianvico Melzi , Moratti Remigio , Merlini Giampaolo
Published: May 2003

Background—

Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a marker of ventricular dysfunction and can be used to assess prognosis in heart failure and after myocardial infarction. Heart involvement is the most important prognostic factor and causes death in almost all patients with light-chain amyloidosis (AL). We investigated the prognostic value of NT-proBNP and its utility in monitoring amyloid heart dysfunction.

Methods and Results—

NT-proBNP was quantified at diagnosis in 152 consecutive patients seen at the coordinating center of the Italian Amyloidosis Study Group (Pavia) from 1999 throughout 2001. Heart involvement was estimated on the basis of clinical signs, electrocardiography, and echocardiography. NT-proBNP concentrations differed in patients with (n=90, 59%) and without (n=62, 41%) heart involvement (median: 507.8 pmol/L versus 22.1 pmol/L,
P
=10
−7
). The best cutoff for heart involvement was at 152 pmol/L (sensitivity: 93.33%, specificity: 90.16%, accuracy: 92.05%) and distinguished two groups with different survival (
P
<0.001). The Cox multivariate model including NT-proBNP was better than models including echocardiographic and clinical signs of heart involvement. NT-proBNP appeared to be more sensitive than conventional echocardiographic parameters in detecting clinical improvement or worsening of amyloid cardiomyopathy during follow-up.

Conclusions—

NT-proBNP appeared to be the most sensitive index of myocardial dysfunction and the most powerful prognostic determinant in AL amyloidosis. It adds prognostic information for newly diagnosed patients and can be useful in designing therapeutic strategies and monitoring response. NT-proBNP is a sensitive marker of heart toxicity caused by amyloidogenic light chains.
HEADHUNTING, CARNAGE AND ARMED PEACE IN AMBOINA, 1500-1700
Authors: Knaap Gerrit
Published: May 2003

Despite a corpus of sources, historians of the Moluccas (Indonesia) have given little attention to military history. While land warfare consisted mainly of headhunting raids, maritime warfare was essentially amphibious, with a fleet (hongi) sailing to an enemy beach where a village would be stormed. The European intrusion brought changes to this general pattern. The Dutch East India Company developed its own hongi, consisting of local vessels and a few European ones. However, these were ineffective by the final stages of the wars of conquest and ultimately it was European expeditionary forces that eliminated the last opposition to Dutch rule. Once the 'Pax Neerlandica' was established, the Company could rely on the hongi once again.Malgré le nombre de sources historiques à leur disposition, les historiens des Moluques (Indonésie) n'ont guère prêté attention à l'histoire militaire. La guerre sur terre, c'était surtout faire la chasse aux têtes. La guerre par mer, en revanche, consistait surtout en opérations amphibies, à l'aide d'une flotte (hongi) qui faisait voile vers une côte ennemie pour monter à l'assaut d'un village. La pénétration européenne a changé cette situation. La Compagnie Unie des Indes Orientales a développé sa propre hongi, composée d'embarcations locales et de quelques navires européens. Pourtant, ces hongi ne furent pas efficaces dans les dernières étapes des guerres de conquête et, finalement, ce fut la marine européenne qui élimina la résistance à la domination hollandaise. Lorsque la 'Pax Neerlandica' fut établie, la Compagnie put de nouveau compter sur les hongi.
Retention, Tenure, and Promotion of Hispanic Faculty in Colleges of Education: Working Toward Success Within the Higher Education System
Authors: Guanipa Carmen , Santa Cruz Rafaela M. , Chao Grace
Published: May 2003

Evidence assessing the inclusion of diverse faculty in U.S. universities indicates some institutions are failing to meet their needs, especially of Hispanic faculty. One of the major reasons to effectively deal with this issue is the lack of ability to quell visible and silent variables that block the success of diverse faculty. This article aims to present ideas to mentor Hispanic and new faculty of color to successfully prepare for tenure.
RNA editing and regulation ofDrosophila 4f-rnpexpression bysas-10antisense readthrough mRNA transcripts
Authors: PETERS NICK T. , ROHRBACH JUSTIN A. , ZALEWSKI BRIAN A. , BYRKETT COLLEEN M. , VAUGHN JACK C.
Published: May 2003

We have previously described an example of extensively A-to-G edited cDNA derived from adult heads of the fruitflyDrosophila melanogaster. In that study, the source of the predicted antisense RNA pairing strand for template recognition by dADAR editase was not identified, and the biological significance of the observed hyperediting was not known. Here, we address each of these questions.4f-rnpandsas-10are closely adjacent X-linked genes located on opposite DNA strands that produce convergent transcripts. We show that developmentally regulated antisensesas-10readthrough mRNA arises by activation of an upstream promoter P2 during the late embryo stage of fly development. Thesas-10readthrough transcripts pair with4f-rnpmRNA to form double-stranded molecules, as indicated by A-to-G editing observed in both RNA strands. It would be predicted that perfect RNA duplexes would be targeted for modification/degradation by enzyme pathways that recognize double-stranded RNAs, leading to decline in4f-rnpmRNA levels, and this is what we observe. The observation using quantitative RT-PCR thatsas-10readthrough and4f-rnptranscript levels are inversely related suggests a role for the antisense RNA in posttranscriptional regulation of4f-rnpgene expression during development. Potential molecular mechanisms that could lead to this result are discussed, one of which is targeted transcript degradation via the RNAi pathway. Insofar as the dADAR editase and RNAi pathways are known to be constitutive in this system, it is likely that control of antisense RNA transcription is the rate-limiting factor. The results provide insight into roles of naturally occurring antisense RNAs in regulation of eukaryotic gene expression.
Effect of transcription on folding of the Tetrahymena ribozyme
Authors: HEILMAN-MILLER SUSAN L. , WOODSON SARAH A.
Published: May 2003

Sequential formation of RNA interactions during transcription can bias the folding pathway and ultimately determine the functional state of a transcript. The kinetics of cotranscriptional folding of the Tetrahymena L-21 ribozyme was compared with refolding of full-length transcripts under the same conditions. Sequential folding after transcription by phage T7 or Escherichia coli polymerase is only twice as fast as refolding, and the yield of native RNA is the same. By contrast, a greater fraction of circularly permuted variants folded correctly at early times during transcription than during refolding. Hybridization of complementary oligonucleotides suggests that cotranscriptional folding enables a permuted RNA beginning at G303 to escape non-native interactions in P3 and P9. We propose that base pairing of upstream sequences during transcription elongation favors branched secondary structures that increase the probability of forming the native ribozyme structure.
Single‐Response Duplexing of Electrochemical Label‐Free Biosensor from the Same Tag
Authors: Costa Juliana N. Y. , Pimentel Gabriel J. C. , Poker Júlia A. , Merces Leandro , Paschoalino Waldemir J. , Vieira Luis C. S. , Castro Ana C. H. , Alves Wendel A. , Ayres Lucas B. , Kubota Lauro T. , Santhiago Murilo , Garcia Carlos D. , Piazzetta Maria H. O. , Gobbi Angelo L. , Shimizu Flávio M. , Lima Renato S.
Published: January 2024

Multiplexing is a valuable strategy to boost throughput and improve clinical accuracy. Exploiting the vertical, meshed design of reproducible and low‐cost ultra‐dense electrochemical chips, the unprecedented single‐response multiplexing of typical label‐free biosensors is reported. Using a cheap, handheld one‐channel workstation and a single redox probe, that is, ferro/ferricyanide, the recognition events taking place on two spatially resolved locations of the same working electrode can be tracked along a single voltammetry scan by collecting the electrochemical signatures of the probe in relation to different quasi‐reference electrodes, Au (0 V) and Ag/AgCl ink (+0.2 V). This spatial isolation prevents crosstalk between the redox tags and interferences over functionalization and binding steps, representing an advantage over the existing non‐spatially resolved single‐response multiplex strategies. As proof of concept, peptide‐tethered immunosensors are demonstrated to provide the duplex detection of COVID‐19 antibodies, thereby doubling the throughput while achieving 100% accuracy in serum samples. The approach is envisioned to enable broad applications in high‐throughput and multi‐analyte platforms, as it can be tailored to other biosensing devices and formats.
Inorganic Sodium Solid Electrolytes: Structure Design, Interface Engineering and Application
Authors: Liu Gaozhan , Yang Jing , Wu Jinghua , Peng Zhe , Yao Xiayin
Published: January 2024

All‐solid‐state sodium batteries (ASSSBs) are particularly attractive for large‐scale energy storage and electric vehicles due to their exceptional safety, abundant resource availability, and cost‐effectiveness. The growing demand for ASSSBs underscores the significance of sodium solid electrolytes; However, the existed challenges of sodium solid electrolytes hinder their practical application despite continuous research efforts. Herein, recent advancements and the challenges for sodium solid electrolytes from material to battery level are reviewed. The in‐depth understanding of their fundamental properties, synthesis techniques, crystal structures and recent breakthroughs is presented. Moreover, critical challenges on inorganic sodium solid electrolytes are emphasized, including the imperative need to enhance ionic conductivity, fortifying interfacial compatibility with anode/cathode materials, and addressing dendrite formation issues. Finally, potential applications of these inorganic sodium solid electrolytes are explored in ASSSBs and emerging battery systems, offering insights into future research directions.
Geometric determinants of the mechanical behavior of image‐based finite element models of the intervertebral disc
Authors: Fleps Ingmar , Newman Harrah R. , Elliott Dawn M. , Morgan Elise F.
Published: January 2024

The intervertebral disc is an important structure for load transfer through the spine. Its injury and degeneration have been linked to pain and spinal fractures. Disc injury and spine fractures are associated with high stresses; however, these stresses cannot be measured, necessitating the use of finite element (FE) models. These models should include the disc's complex structure, as changes in disc geometry have been linked to altered mechanical behavior. However, image‐based models using disc‐specific structures have yet to be established. This study describes a multiphasic FE modeling approach for noninvasive estimates of subject‐specific intervertebral disc mechanical behavior based on medical imaging. The models (n = 22) were used to study the influence of disc geometry on the predicted global mechanical response (moments and forces), internal local disc stresses, and tractions at the interface between the disc and the bone. Disc geometry was found to have a strong influence on the predicted moments and forces on the disc (R2 = 0.69–0.93), while assumptions regarding the side curvature (bulge) of the disc had only a minor effect. Strong variability in the predicted internal disc stresses and tractions was observed between the models (mean absolute differences of 5.1%–27.7%). Disc height had a systematic influence on the internal disc stresses and tractions at the disc‐to‐bone interface. The influence of disc geometry on mechanics highlights the importance of disc‐specific modeling to estimate disc injury risk, loading on the adjacent vertebral bodies, and the mechanical environment present in disc tissues.
Application of radiomics model based on lumbar computed tomography in diagnosis of elderly osteoporosis
Authors: Chen Baisen , Cui Jiaming , Li Chaochen , Xu Pengjun , Xu Guanhua , Jiang Jiawei , Xue Pengfei , Sun Yuyu , Cui Zhiming
Published: January 2024

A metabolic bone disease characterized by decreased bone formation and increased bone resorption is osteoporosis. It can cause pain and fracture of patients. The elderly are prone to osteoporosis and are more vulnerable to osteoporosis. In this study, radiomics are extracted from computed tomography (CT) images to screen osteoporosis in the elderly. Collect the plain scan CT images of lumbar spine, cut the region of interest of the image and extract radiomics features, use Lasso regression to screen variables and adjust complexity, use python language to model random forests, support vector machines, K nearest neighbor, and finally use receiver operating characteristic curve to evaluate the performance of the model, including precision, recall, accuracy and area under the curve (AUC). For the model, 14 radiolomics features were selected. The diagnosis performance of random forest model and support vector machine is good, all around 0.9. The AUC of K nearest neighbor model in training set and test set is 0.828 and 0.796, respectively. We selected the plain scan CT images of the elderly lumbar spine to build radiomics features model, which has good diagnostic performance and can be used as a tool to assist the diagnosis of osteoporosis in the elderly.
Intestinal failure–associated liver disease: Current challenges in screening, diagnosis, and parenteral nutrition considerations
Authors: Tabone Trevor , Mooney Peter , Donnellan Clare
Published: January 2024

Intestinal failure–associated liver disease (IFALD) is a serious life‐limiting complication that can occur throughout the clinical course of intestinal failure and its management by parenteral nutrition (PN). Despite this, there is a lack of a standardized definition for IFALD, which makes this insidious condition increasingly difficult to screen and diagnose in clinical practice. Attenuating the progression of liver disease before the onset of liver failure is key to improving morbidity and mortality in these patients. This requires timely detection and promptly addressing reversible factors. Although there are various noninvasive tools available to the clinician to detect early fibrosis or cirrhosis in various chronic liver disease states, these have not been validated in the patient population with IFALD. Such tools include biochemical composite scoring systems for fibrosis, transient elastography, and dynamic liver function tests. This review article aims to highlight the existing real need for an accurate, reproducible method to detect IFALD in its early stages. In addition, we also explore the role PN plays in the pathogenesis of this complex multifactorial condition. Various aspects of PN administration have been implicated in the etiology of IFALD, including the composition of the lipid component, nutrient excess and deficiency, and infusion timing. We aim to highlight the clinical relevance of these PN‐associated factors in the development of IFALD and how these can be managed to mitigate the progression of IFALD.
Epicardial adipose tissue and subclinical incident atrial fibrillation as detected by continuous monitoring: a cardiac magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Guldberg Eva , Diederichsen Søren Zöga , Haugan Ketil Jørgen , Brandes Axel , Graff Claus , Krieger Derk , Olesen Morten Salling , Højberg Søren , Køber Lars , Vejlstrup Niels , Bertelsen Litten , Svendsen Jesper Hastrup
Published: January 2024

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) has endocrine and paracrine functions and has been associated with metabolic and cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to investigate the association between EAT, determined by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), and incident atrial fibrillation (AF) following long-term continuous heart rhythm monitoring by implantable loop recorder (ILR). This study is a sub-study of the LOOP study. In total, 203 participants without a history of AF received an ILR and underwent advanced CMR. All participants were at least 70 years of age at inclusion and had at least one of the following conditions: hypertension, diabetes, previous stroke, or heart failure. Volumetric measurements of atrial- and ventricular EAT were derived from CMR and the time to incident AF was subsequently determined. A total of 78 participants (38%) were diagnosed with subclinical AF during a median of 40 (37–42) months of continuous monitoring. In multivariable Cox regression analyses adjusted for age, sex, and various comorbidities, we found EAT indexed to body surface area to be independently associated with the time to AF with hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) up to 2.93 (1.36–6.34); p = 0.01 when analyzing the risk of new-onset AF episodes lasting ≥ 24 h. Atrial EAT assessed by volumetric measurements on CMR images was significantly associated with the incident AF episodes as detected by ILR.
Willingness to pay more health taxes? The relevance of personality traits and situational effects
Authors: Pinho Micaela , Madaleno Mara
Published: January 2024

The main aim of this paper is to investigate the micro and macro predictors of Portuguese willingness to pay (WTP) more taxes to bolster funds channelled to the National Health Service (NHS). An online questionnaire was used to collect data from 584 Portuguese citizens. The statistical analysis was performed through the application of logistic regressions. The research shows that willingness to support increasing taxes depended on socioeconomic, behavioural, and psychological factors. The WTP more taxes to finance the NHS were associated with younger ages, life satisfaction and dispositional optimism, satisfaction with the NHS performance, current perceived risk exposure, and risk orientation. Identifying and understanding the main influencing factors associated with WTP more taxes for NHS is essential to assist policy-makers in developing healthcare reforms. Decision-makers may take this opportunity to improve the NHS since those who ultimately benefit from the measures can provide an additional source of health financing.
Prevalence of new onset erectile dysfunction among Damietta governorate men after contracting COVID-19
Authors: Ahmed Mostafa A. , Obaid Zakaria M. , Hashem Osama , Elrifai Atef W. , Elsaie Mohamed L.
Published: January 2024

Background

Several reports showed that sexual function was affected during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aims

The objective of the study was to demonstrate whether a realistic association exists between the COVID-19 pandemic and erectile dysfunction (ED) among a sampled Egyptian population in Damietta governorate.

Methods

This cross-sectional study consisted of 330 adult males diagnosed with COVID-19 infection. They were categorized in three age groups (18–29, 30–39, and 40–50 years, respectively). COVID-19-confirmed cases were assessed by the Arabic version of the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire (IIEF) scores.

Results

The prevalence of ED according to the IIEF was 55.1%. The ED was categorized into mild ED which represents 25.8% of the patients, mild to moderate which represents 22.4% of the patients, moderate which represents 7% of the patients, and severe which represents 0% of the patients. We found a significant negative correlation between the age of the patients and the IIEF score. Also, we found an association between the severity of COVID-19 infection and the IIEF score.

Conclusion

An association of new-onset ED in men who suffered COVID-19 infection was established. This may be due to virus-induced endothelial cell dysfunction; however, an underlying mechanism and causation have not yet been clearly elucidated. While it appears that COVID-19 infection may be a risk factor for ED, additional research is needed to establish causality.
Machine learning prediction of the failure of high-flow nasal oxygen therapy in patients with acute respiratory failure
Authors: Wang Ziwen , Chao Yali , Xu Meng , Zhao Wenjing , Hu Xiaoyi
Published: January 2024

Acute respiratory failure (ARF) is a prevalent and serious condition in intensive care unit (ICU), often associated with high mortality rates. High-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) therapy has gained popularity for treating ARF in recent years. However, there is a limited understanding of the factors that predict HFNO failure in ARF patients. This study aimed to explore early indicators of HFNO failure in ARF patients, utilizing machine learning (ML) algorithms to more accurately pinpoint individuals at elevated risk of HFNO failure. Utilizing ML algorithms, we developed seven predictive models. Their performance was evaluated using various metrics, including the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, calibration curve, and precision recall curve. The study enrolled 700 patients, with 490 in the training group and 210 in the validation group. The overall HFNO failure rate was 14.1% among the 700 patients. The ML algorithms demonstrated robust performance in our study. This research underscores the potential of ML techniques in creating clinically relevant models for predicting HFNO outcomes in ARF patients. These models could play a pivotal role in enhancing the risk management of HFNO, leading to more patient-centered and personalized care approaches.
Effekte der pneumologischen Rehabilitation auf dysfunktionale
Atemmuster bei Patienten mit unkontrolliertem Asthma
Authors: Ebert Franziska , Ballenberger Nikolaus , Hayden Markus C. , Möller Dirk , Limbach Matthias , Schuler Michael , Nowak Dennis , Schultz Konrad
Published: January 2024

Ziel der Studie Als dysfunktionale Atemmuster (DAM) werden Abweichungen
vom physiologischen Atemmuster bezeichnet. DAM scheinen mit einer geringeren
Asthmakontrolle verbunden zu sein. Bisher ist unklar, welchen Einfluss eine
stationäre Rehabilitation auf diese Problematik nehmen kann. Ziel dieser
Arbeit ist es, den Effekt einer pneumologischen Rehabilitation (PR) auf DAM zu
untersuchen.

Methodik Die Daten basieren auf einer randomisierten kontrollieren Studie
mit Wartekontrollgruppe. Die Interventionsgruppe (IG) erhielt 4 Wochen nach
Antragsbewilligung eine PR, die Kontrollgruppe (KG) nach 5 Monaten.
Dysfunktionale Atmung wurde mittels Nijmegen-Questionnaire (NQ) erfasst. Werte
≥ 23 Punkte weisen auf ein existentes DAM hin. Verglichen werden
Werte zu Reha-Ende (T2) und nach drei Monaten (T3) (Kovarianzanalyse).
Ergänzend wurde eine Moderatoranalyse durchgeführt, um zu
prüfen, ob der Effekt der PR mit den Ausgangswerten des NQ-Score
zusammenhängt.

Ergebnisse Zwischen IG (n=202) und KG (n=210) finden sich
signifikante Unterschiede im NQ-Score zu T2 (AMD=10,5; 95%CI [9;
12]; d=1,4; p<0,001) und zu T3 (AMD=5,8; 95%CI
[4,3; 7,3]; d=0,8; p<0,001). Es zeigt sich ein
Interaktionseffekt zwischen der Differenz im NQ-Score der Gruppen zu T2 und dem
Ausgangswert zu T0 (b=5,6; 95%CI [2,2; 11,9]; p<0,001).
Zu T3 ist dieser Interaktionseffekt nicht mehr nachweisbar (b=4,5;
95%CI [−3,1; 14,1]; p=807).

Schlussfolgerung Die stationäre, multimodale und
interdisziplinäre PR geht sowohl zum Entlassungszeitpunkt als auch 3
Monate danach mit einer signifikanten und klinisch relevanten Verbesserung der
DAM einher. Kurzfristig profitieren Patienten mit bestehenden DAM mehr von der
PR als Patienten ohne DAM.
MMDRP: drug response prediction and biomarker discovery using multi-modal deep learning
Authors: Taj Farzan , Stein Lincoln D
Published: January 2024

Motivation

A major challenge in cancer care is that patients with similar demographics, tumor types, and medical histories can respond quite differently to the same drug regimens. This difference is largely explained by genetic and other molecular variabilities among the patients and their cancers. Efforts in the pharmacogenomics field are underway to understand better the relationship between the genome of the patient’s healthy and tumor cells and their response to therapy. To advance this goal, research groups and consortia have undertaken large-scale systematic screening of panels of drugs across multiple cancer cell lines that have been molecularly profiled by genomics, proteomics, and similar techniques. These large data drug screening sets have been applied to the problem of drug response prediction (DRP), the challenge of predicting the response of a previously untested drug/cell-line combination. Although deep learning algorithms outperform traditional methods, there are still many challenges in DRP that ultimately result in these models’ low generalizability and hampers their clinical application.

Results

In this article, we describe a novel algorithm that addresses the major shortcomings of current DRP methods by combining multiple cell line characterization data, addressing drug response data skewness, and improving chemical compound representation.

Availability and implementation

MMDRP is implemented as an open-source, Python-based, command-line program and is available at https://github.com/LincolnSteinLab/MMDRP.
tANCHOR cell-based ELISA approach as a surrogate for antigen-coated plates to monitor specific IgG directed to the SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain
Authors: Bernauer Hubert , Maier Josef , Bannert Norbert , Ivanusic Daniel
Published: January 2024

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) systems use plates coated with peptides or expressed and purified proteins to monitor immunoglobulins derived from patient serum. However, there is currently no easy, flexible, and fast adaptive ELISA-based system for testing antibodies directed against new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants. In this study, we utilized the tANCHOR protein display system that provides a cell surface decorated with the receptor-binding domain (RBD) to monitor specific antibodies derived from SARS-CoV-2 convalescent and vaccinated individuals directed against it. To test sera from vaccinees or convalescent individuals, only the RBD coding sequence needs to be cloned in the tANCHOR vector system and transfected into HeLa cells. Time-consuming protein expression, isolation, and purification followed by coating assay plates are not necessary. With this technique, the immune evasion of new SARS-CoV-2 variants from current vaccination regimes can be examined quickly and reliably.
Fuel cell stack design and modelling with a double-stage boost converter coupled to a single-phase inverter
Authors: Elnagi Basem E , Ismaiel Ahmed M , Mansour Hany S E , Abd-Alwahab M N
Published: January 2024

A comprehensive proton-exchange membrane fuel cell stack model was developed and integrated with a two-stage DC/DC boost converter. It was directly coupled to a single-phase (two levels—four pulses) inverter without a transformer. The pulse-width modulation signal was used to independently regulate every converter phase. The converter was modelled using a MATLAB®/Simulink® environment and an appropriate voltage control method. The analysis features of the suggested circuit were created and, through established experiments, the simulation results were verified. A single-phase (two levels—four pulses) inverter control circuit was tested and it produced a pure sinusoidal waveform with voltage control. It matches the voltage of the network in terms of amplitude and frequency. A sinusoidal pulse-width modulation approach was performed using a single-phase (two levels—four pulses) pulse-width modulation inverter. The results demonstrated an enhancement in the standard of the output wave and tuned the dead time with a reduction of 63 µs compared with 180 µs in conventional techniques.
Advances and opportunities in wind energy harvesting using plasma actuators: a review
Authors: Omidi Javad
Published: January 2024

The dielectric barrier discharge plasma actuator has been recognized as a leading technology for controlling fluid flow and has found remarkable applications in wind energy harvesting over the past decade. Wind turbine aerodynamics are critical in this concept and performance is mainly determined by flow controllers, although significant technical progress is still required. This paper examines all the critical studies to investigate the potential application of plasma actuators for airflow control over wind turbines. This approach has been divided into three categories: wind turbine airfoils, horizontal-axis wind turbines and vertical-axis wind turbines aerodynamic performance and generated power. Finally, the potential functions of plasma actuators in current and future wind turbine generators are discussed. These actuators offer promising solutions to increasing power output, minimizing torque fluctuations and enabling self-starting capabilities, particularly in vertical-axis wind turbines. By adjusting blade pitch angles in conjunction with plasma actuators, significant improvements in airflow optimization and power extraction have been demonstrated. Despite the advancements, challenges persist, such as determining optimal actuator placement and overcoming structural limitations, especially concerning 3D effects and high Reynolds numbers. While plasma actuators enhance aerodynamic efficiency, their complexity needs to be balanced against marginal gains in power production, especially in high-megawatt turbines, for which controlling flow at low wind speeds is challenging. Future research must focus on the sustainable integration of plasma actuators, pitch angle adjustments and active control mechanisms to fully exploit the potential of wind energy for a sustainable future.
Achievement of Clinical, Endoscopic, and Histological Outcomes in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis Treated with Etrasimod, and Association with Faecal Calprotectin and C-reactive Protein: Results From the Phase 2 OASIS Trial
Authors: Yarur Andres J , Chiorean Michael V , Panés Julián , Jairath Vipul , Zhang Jinkun , Rabbat Christopher J , Sandborn William J , Vermeire Séverine , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent
Published: January 2024

Background and Aims

Etrasimod is an oral, once-daily, selective sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P)1,4,5 receptor modulator for the treatment of moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis [UC]. This post-hoc analysis of the phase 2 OASIS trial [NCT02447302] evaluated its efficacy for endoscopic improvement–histologic remission [EIHR] and assessed correlation between faecal calprotectin [FCP] and C-reactive protein [CRP] levels with efficacy outcomes.

Methods

In total, 156 adults with moderately to severely active UC received once-daily etrasimod (1 mg [n = 52]; 2 mg [n = 50]) or placebo [n = 54] for 12 weeks. Clinical, endoscopic, and histologic variables were evaluated at baseline and Week 12. EIHR was defined as achievement of endoscopic improvement [endoscopic subscore ≤ 1, without friability] and histologic remission [Geboes score < 2.0]. Outcomes included the relationships between FCP and CRP concentration and clinical, endoscopic, and histologic variables.

Results

Achievement of EIHR was significantly higher in patients who received etrasimod 2 mg versus placebo [19.5% vs 4.1%; Mantel–Haenszel estimated difference, 15.4%; p = 0.010]. In the etrasimod 2 mg group, median FCP and CRP levels at Week 12 were significantly lower in patients who achieved clinical remission, endoscopic improvement, histologic remission, and EIHR versus patients who did not [all p < 0.05]. An FCP concentration cutoff of 250 µg/g achieved optimum sensitivity and specificity for efficacy, including EIHR [0.857 and 0.786, respectively; κ coefficient, 0.3584]. Higher proportions of patients with FCP ≤ 250 µg/g achieved efficacy outcomes at Week 12 versus patients with FCP > 250 µg/g.

Conclusions

Etrasimod was effective for inducing EIHR in patients with UC. FCP and CRP may be useful, noninvasive biomarkers to monitor treatment response.

ClinicalTrials.gov number

NCT02447302.
Global biogeography and ecological implications of cobamide-producing prokaryotes
Authors: Wang Jichen , Zhu Yong-Guan , Tiedje James M , Ge Yuan
Published: January 2024

Cobamides, a class of essential coenzymes synthesized only by a subset of prokaryotes, are model nutrients in microbial interaction studies and play significant roles in global ecosystems. Yet, their spatial patterns and functional roles remain poorly understood. Herein, we present an in-depth examination of cobamide-producing microorganisms, drawn from a comprehensive analysis of 2862 marine and 2979 soil metagenomic samples. A total of 1934 nonredundant metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) potentially capable of producing cobamides de novo were identified. The cobamide-producing MAGs are taxonomically diverse but habitat specific. They constituted only a fraction of all the recovered MAGs, with the majority of MAGs being potential cobamide users. By mapping the distribution of cobamide producers in marine and soil environments, distinct latitudinal gradients were observed: the marine environment showed peak abundance at the equator, whereas soil environments peaked at mid-latitudes. Importantly, significant and positive links between the abundance of cobamide producers and the diversity and functions of microbial communities were observed, as well as their promotional roles in essential biogeochemical cycles. These associations were more pronounced in marine samples than in soil samples, which suggests a heightened propensity for microorganisms to engage in cobamide sharing in fluid environments relative to the more spatially restricted soil environment. These findings shed light on the global patterns and potential ecological roles of cobamide-producing microorganisms in marine and soil ecosystems, enhancing our understanding of large-scale microbial interactions.
Respiratory Muscle Contraction Characteristics and Potential Mechanisms in Severely Burned Rats
Authors: Hailiang Bai , Xiafen Bai , Xingxia Hao , Jiake Chai , Hongjie Duan
Published: January 2024

Postburn hypermetabolism remains an important clinical problem. During this phase, there is a significant loss of diaphragmatic proteins. Better understanding of respiratory muscle dynamics and potential mechanisms affecting respiratory muscle function is necessary for the development of effective therapeutic approaches. Male Wistar rats were subjected to 50% TBSA burns and sham injuries, and respiratory muscle function was assessed with 0, 1, 4, 7, and 14 days postinjury, including pulmonary function, blood gas analysis, transdiaphragmatic pressure, diaphragm ultrasonography, isolated diaphragm contractility, fatigue index, protein oxidative stress content, and ATP levels. Burned rats had significantly reduced inspiratory time, expiratory time, and tidal volume and significantly increased respiratory rate and minute ventilation. At the same time, the isolated diaphragm contractility, specific force during fatigue, and fatigue index were significantly decreased in the burned rats. Pdi, Pdimax, diaphragm thickness, diaphragm thickening fraction, and diaphragm excursion also decreased significantly postburn, whereas the Pdi/Pdimax ratio increased significantly. Finally, the content of protein carbonyls and lactic acid of burned rats was increased, and ATP levels of burned rats were decreased. The present study demonstrates the dynamic changes in diaphragm contractile properties postburn from both in vivo and in vitro perspectives, while cursorily exploring the possibility that protein oxidative stress and reduced ATP production may be the cause of diaphragm dysfunction. This understanding contributes to the development of methods to mitigate the extent of diaphragmatic function loss after severe burns.