bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do carer tasks predict carer employment? Evidence from the Survey of Adult Carers in England
Authors: Candon David , Hewitt Michael , Liu‐Smith Yu‐Ling , Murphy Peter
Published: August 2023

Due to the large number of unpaid carers in England, there is an extensive body of research which examines the determinants of carers' employment. Despite this, little is known about the relationship between the specific tasks that carers perform and their labour supply. Using data from the Survey of Adult Carers in England, we examine the relationship between carer tasks and carer employment outcomes. We find that carers who perform tasks that are time‐bound have a lower probability of working compared to carers who do not perform these tasks. Similarly, carers who perform shiftable tasks have a higher probability of working compared to carers who do not perform these tasks. If future social policy is to be designed to allow carers to also maintain their employment, then targeting services at the carer tasks which have the largest impact on employment needs to be taken into account.
Saprininae: Phylogeny, biogeography and a new classification of the subfamily (Coleoptera: Histeridae)
Authors: Lackner Tomáš , Zhang Yuanmeng Miles , Kindler Carolin , Motyka Michal , Balke Michael
Published: August 2023

With 74 genera and subgenera and approximately 740 species, Saprininae represent one of the largest subfamilies of Histeridae (Coleoptera: Histeroidea). Here, we present a phylogenetic hypothesis for Saprininae based on comprehensive taxonomic sampling. This is the first phylogenetic study combining molecular and morphological approaches (cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1, 18S ribosomal RNA and 93 morphological characters). As a result, we propose a new classification; five new tribes are erected: Myrmetini Portevin stat. and sens. nov.; Euspilotini Lackner, trib. nov.; Eremosaprinini Lackner, trib. nov.; Saprinini Blanchard, sens. nov.; and Hypocaccini Lackner, trib. nov. Additional nomenclatural acts are as follows: Chelyoxenus Hubbard is downgraded to a subgenus of Geomysaprinus Ross, thus Geomysaprinus (Chelyoxenus) stat. nov., Nessus Reichardt is transferred from a subgenus of Hypocaccus C. Thomson to a subgenus of Hypocacculus Bickhardt, thus Hypocacculus (Nessus) stat. rest. The following taxa Paraphilothis Vienna, Styphrus Motschulsky, Xerosaprinus Wenzel, Lophobregmus Wenzel, Vastosaprinus Wenzel, Auchmosaprinus Wenzel, Hemisaprinus Kryzhanovskij & Reichardt, Reichardtia Wenzel and Australopachylopus Lackner & Leschen are all downgraded into subgenera of Saprinus Erichson. Thus, Saprinus (Paraphilothis) stat. nov., Saprinus (Styphrus) stat. nov., Saprinus (Xerosaprinus) stat. nov., Saprinus (Vastosaprinus) stat. nov., Saprinus (Auchmosaprinus) stat. nov., Saprinus (Lophobregmus) stat. nov., Saprinus (Hemisaprinus) stat. rest., Saprinus (Reichardtia) stat. nov., Saprinus (Australopachylopus) stat. nov. A new genus, Paraxenus Lackner gen. nov., is proposed for the former South African and Namibian members of the genus Pholioxenus Reichardt, with the following new combinations: Paraxenus diasi (Vienna) comb. nov.; Paraxenus eremicola (Thérond) comb. nov.; Paraxenus namibiensis (Vienna) comb. nov.; Paraxenus oleolus (Thérond) comb. nov.; Paraxenus therondi (Olexa) comb. nov.; and Paraxenus uhligi (Mazur) comb. nov. Additionally, based on the analysis of the dispersal patterns, Myrmetini appear to be a bipolar (amphitropical) clade, while Eremosaprinini appear to be exclusive to the Western Hemisphere. Euspilotini are strongly represented in the Western Hemisphere, with only a handful of species known from the Palaearctic/Oriental regions. Saprinini and Hypocaccini are spread worldwide but are poorly represented in South America. The Holarctic (in particular the Nearctic) Region is proposed as the centre of origin of the subfamily around 80 million years ago (Ma). Inquilinism is hypothesised to be the ancestral state for the group, with several subsequent independent shifts in life histories. Saprininae cladogenesis occurred mainly during the Palaeogene (66–23.03 Ma) and could be linked to the diversification of mammals.
Does it matter where your ancestor come from? Genetic distance and bilateral foreign direct investment
Authors: Liu Wei , Zhao Zhihui , Cui Yan , Guo Fangchen , Wu Yuzhao
Published: August 2023

This paper selects 141 countries from 2009 to 2020 to investigate the impact of genetic distance on bilateral foreign direct investment (FDI). Through theoretical and empirical analysis, we get the following conclusions. First, genetic distance has a significant negative impact on bilateral FDI by increasing transaction costs. This conclusion still holds after several robust checks. Second, genetic distance has different effects on bilateral FDI for different countries: (1) If at least one of the two countries is a low‐income country, genetic distance will have a significant negative impact on their FDI, but no significant impact on both high‐income countries; (2) if at least one of the two countries is not a member of the Belt and Road Initiative, genetic distance will have a significant negative impact, but no significant impact on both member countries; and (3) genetic distance has a significant negative impact only when both countries are World Trade Organization members. Third, further analysis shows that a smaller genetic distance has no significant effect on bilateral FDI, and only when the genetic distance is larger than the average would a significant negative impact exists. This paper provides policy recommendations for promoting bilateral investment.
MRI and CT features of a disc herniation through a fractured lumbar vertebra causing lumbar spinal cord compression in a dog
Authors: Capasso Michele , Dell'Era Elena , Carloni Andrea , Balducci Federica , Specchi Swan , Bernardini Marco
Published: August 2023

A 5‐year‐old intact male Saint Bernard was presented for paraparesis following a fall down the stairs. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a chronic fragmentation of the dorsocaudal aspect of the second lumbar vertebral body (L2). Material migrated from the L2 to L3 intervertebral space through the fractured caudal vertebral endplate into the vertebral body and reached the vertebral canal, resulting in a severe extradural compressive myelopathy. Computed tomography confirmed the vertebral fragmentation. Histology of surgically removed compressive material revealed fibrocartilaginous material. The uncommon route of the extruded disc material through a fractured vertebral body makes this case of traumatic disc extrusion unusual.
Computed tomographic characteristics of frontal sinus ossifying fibroma in a dog
Authors: Birckhead Alice , Carstens Ann , Geiss Erik , Yap Fui , Huizing Xander
Published: August 2023

A 10‐year‐old female spayed Kelpie cross was presented to The Austin Vet Specialists for further investigation of a mineralized, lobulated frontal sinus mass that had previously been detected radiographically. Computed tomography (CT) revealed a large, expansile, well‐defined, heterogeneously mineral attenuating mass invading both frontal sinuses. The mass was surgically debulked via a frontal sinusotomy approach. Histopathology was consistent with ossifying fibroma. This  is the first published report to describe frontal sinus ossifying fibroma in a dog, and the second to describe CT features of ossifying fibroma involving the cranium in a dog.
Performance of a commercially available artificial intelligence software for the detection of confirmed pulmonary nodules and masses in canine thoracic radiography
Authors: Pomerantz Leah Kathleen , Solano Mauricio , Kalosa‐Kenyon Eric
Published: August 2023

Advancements in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) are modest in veterinary medicine relative to their substantial growth in human medicine. However, interest in this field is increasing, and commercially available veterinary AI products are already on the market. In this retrospective, diagnostic accuracy study, the accuracy of a commercially available convolutional neural network AI product (Vetology AI®) is assessed on 56 thoracic radiographic studies of pulmonary nodules and masses, as well as 32 control cases. Positive cases were confirmed to have pulmonary pathology consistent with a nodule/mass either by CT, cytology, or histopathology. The AI software detected pulmonary nodules/masses in 31 of 56 confirmed cases and correctly classified 30 of 32 control cases. The AI model accuracy is 69.3%, balanced accuracy 74.6%, F1‐score 0.7, sensitivity 55.4%, and specificity 93.75%. Building on these results, both the current clinical relevance of AI and how veterinarians can be expected to use available commercial products are discussed.
Outcomes for 15 cats with bilateral sacroiliac luxation treated with transiliosacral toggle suture repair
Authors: Froidefond Baptiste , Moinard Mathieu , Caron Alexandre
Published: August 2023

Objective

To report a surgical technique and outcomes of transiliosacral toggle suture repair to treat feline bilateral sacroiliac luxation/fracture (SILF).

Study design

Retrospective study.

Animals

Fifteen client‐owned cats.

Methods

The medical records of cats with bilateral SILF treated using a transiliosacral toggle suture repair were reviewed. Short‐ and medium‐term outcomes were assessed through standard postoperative clinical evaluation and radiographs, including measurements of angle of deviation (AoD), percentage of reduction (PoR), and pelvic canal width ratio (PCWR). Long‐term functional follow up was obtained from a questionnaire derived from the Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index (FMPI).

Results

Fifteen cats were enrolled retrospectively, among which 13 survived to discharge. One minor wound complication, treated by secondary intention healing, was encountered. No major complication was reported. Immediately postoperatively, the mean absolute PoR values were 88.1 ± 11.2% and 91 ± 11.6% on the right and left side, respectively. The mean absolute AoD was 3.1 ± 2.8°, and the mean PCWR was 1.24 ± 0.08. The medium‐term radiographic follow up at a median of 205 (71–682) days postsurgery revealed the good stability of the repair. Excellent functional outcomes were identified upon the analysis of 12 long‐term questionnaires at a median of 365 (119–798) days postsurgery.

Conclusion

Anatomic reduction was satisfactory and comparable with previously described techniques with good implant placement documented. Functional outcomes based on FMPI‐derived questionnaires were good to excellent in our population.

Clinical significance

Transiliosacral toggle suture stabilization of bilateral SILF was associated with good outcomes in cats. Further studies are required to compare biomechanical properties and outcomes between this technique and previously described transiliosacral stabilization.
Branched covers and matrix factorizations
Authors: Leuschke Graham J. , Tribone Tim
Published: August 2023

Let be a regular local ring and a non‐zero element of . A theorem due to Knörrer states that there are finitely many isomorphism classes of maximal Cohen–Macaulay (CM) ‐modules if and only if the same is true for the double branched cover of , that is, the hypersurface ring which is defined by in . We consider an analogue of this statement in the case of the hypersurface ring defined instead by for . In particular, we show that this hypersurface, which we refer to as the ‐fold branched cover of , has finite CM representation type if and only if, up to isomorphism, there are only finitely many indecomposable matrix factorizations of with factors. As a result, we give a complete list of polynomials with this property in characteristic zero. Furthermore, we show that reduced ‐fold matrix factorizations of correspond to Ulrich modules over the ‐fold branched cover of .
Forbidden intersections for codes
Authors: Keevash Peter , Lifshitz Noam , Long Eoin , Minzer Dor
Published: August 2023

Determining the maximum size of a ‐intersecting code in was a longstanding open problem of Frankl and Füredi, solved independently by Ahlswede and Khachatrian and by Frankl and Tokushige. We extend their result to the setting of forbidden intersections, by showing that for any and large compared with (but not necessarily ) that the same bound holds for codes with the weaker property of being ‐avoiding, that is, having no two vectors that agree on exactly coordinates. Our proof proceeds via a junta approximation result of independent interest, which we prove via a development of our recent theory of global hypercontractivity: we show that any ‐avoiding code is approximately contained in a ‐intersecting junta (a code where membership is determined by a constant number of coordinates). In particular, when , this gives an alternative proof of a recent result of Eberhard, Kahn, Narayanan and Spirkl that symmetric intersecting codes in have size .
Synaptic drive and impulse generation in ganglion cells of turtle retina.
Authors: Baylor D A , Fettiplace R
Published: August 2023

1. Light reponses and electrical constants of ganglion cells in the retina of the turtle were examined by intracellular recording in eyecup preparations. 2. In 'on', 'off', and 'on/off' cells, the impulses produced by illumination of the centre of the receptive field arose from slow synaptic depolarizations. The ganglion cells also exhibited inhibitory synaptic potentials. 3. The synaptic depolarization evoked by a step change in light intensity rose more slowly than the response of the cones in which the excitation originated, and the depolarization then declined in spite of a well maintained cone response. This behaviour is consistent with the notion advanced previously that, during transmission to ganglion cells, receptor signals are relayed through the equivalent of a bandpass filter. 4. The e.p.s.p.s evoked by light grew when the membrane was hyperpolarized by injected current and decreased when the membrane was depolarized. The i.p.s.p.s reversed at a level slightly negative to the resting potential in darkness. 5. In neither 'on' nor 'off' ganglion cells did the synaptic potentials evoked by step changes in illumination show the hyperpolarizing phases expected of a linear filter. The absence of hyperpolarizations is consistent with a rectification which permits transmission of depolarizations but not hyperpolarizations from bipolar to ganglion cells. 6. In darkness the membrane potential of some ganglion cells showed random depolarizations which brought the potential near the threshold for impulse generation. 7. With very small spots in the receptive field centre the 'on' responses of ganglion cells to flashes and steps of light grew approximately linearly with stimulus intensity. The step reponse was not, however, related to the flash response by superposition. Larger spots in the field centre gave responses which grew non‐linearly with the intensity of even dim stimuli. 8 Depolarizing current passed through the recording electrode elicited a repetitive discharge of impulses. The frequency of firing increased linearly with current strength above a rheobase value of about 10(‐10) A. Accommodation occurred during steady currents, the main decline taking place with a time constant of about 15 msec. 9. Strength‐latency measurements and bridge records of ganglion cell charging by constant currents gave time constants of 10‐‐20 msec and input resistances of 100‐‐150 M omega.
Effects of external calcium concentration and pH on charge movement in frog skeletal muscle.
Authors: Shlevin H H
Published: August 2023

1. The effects of both external Ca2+ (1.8, 25, 50 and 100 mM) and external pH (pH 5.5, 7.15, and 9.0) on the voltage‐dependence of charge movement in frog skeletal muscle were examined using the three intracellular micro‐electrode voltage‐clamp technique. 2. The two‐state model of Schneider & Chandler (1973) was used to describe the voltage distribution of membrane charge. The parameters of this model are: Qmax, the maximum quantity of charge; V, the potential of equal distribution of charge; and k, a constant relating to the steepness of the charge vs. voltage relationship. 3. In 1.8 mM external Ca2+, alterations, in external pH shifted the transition potential, V, from a mean +/‐ S.E. of mean of ‐36.5 +/‐ 0.9 mV at pH 7.15 to ‐25.8 +/‐ 1.3 mV at pH 5.5 and to ‐42.5 +/‐ 1.8 mV at pH 9.0. These shifts are consistent with surface charge theory. No significant changes in Qmax or k were observed over the range of pH 5.5‐‐9.0. 4. A reasonable fit of surface charge theory to the shifts in V over the range pH 5.5‐‐9.0 could be obtained with surface charge densities and binding constants: sigma 1 = ‐1 e/165 A2, pK1 = 3.9 and sigma 2 = ‐1 e/400 A2, pK2 = 8. 5. However, at pH 7.15, both V and k changed with increasing external Ca2+ concentration. V shifted from ‐34.9 +/‐ 3.7 mV in 1.8 mM‐Ca2+ to ‐13.8 +/‐ 5.1 mV, ‐19.3 +/‐ 3.6 mV and 3.3 +/‐ 9.3 mV in 25, 50 and 100 mM‐Ca2+ respectively. k increased from 8.3 +/‐ 0.6 mV in 1.8 mM‐Ca2+ to 15.3 +/‐ 1.4 mV, 14.6 +/‐ 1.6 mV and 20.0 +/‐ 2.9 mV in 25, 50 and 100 mM‐Ca2+. Changes in k reflect decreases in the apparent charged particle valence from approximately 3 in 1.8 mM‐Ca2+ to approximately 1.2 in 100 mM‐Ca2+. As the external Ca2+ concentration was raised, Qmax was at least as large as that measured in 1.8 mM‐Ca2+. The 43% decrease in the apparent valence of the charged groups cannot be explained by simple surface charge theory and may reflect a specific interaction between external Ca2+ and the charged groups. 6. Shifts in V with alterations in external pH and Ca2+ concentration are consistent with the effects of these agents on the contraction threshold of muscle fibres. This observation lends further support to the hypothesis that the charge movement is involved in gating muscle contraction and that the charged particles respond to changes in the electric field across the muscle cell membrane. 7. No difference was observed in the charge movement parameters of fibres from both room‐temperature and cold‐adapted frog tested at 2‐‐5 degrees C in 1.8 mM‐Ca2+ at pH 7.15.
Inhibition of the baroreceptor reflex on stimulation in the brain stem defence centre
Authors: Coote J. H. , Hilton S. M. , Perez-Gonzalez J. F.
Published: August 2023

1. In anaesthetized cats, the pattern of cardiovascular response characteristic of the defence reaction has been elicited by localized electrical stimulation within the appropriate region of the hypothalamus. The baroreceptor reflex response has been elicited by raising the pressure in a blind sac preparation of the carotid sinus or by electrical stimulation of the sinus nerve.

2. In addition to arterial blood pressure, heart rate and regional blood flows, activity was recorded in cardiac and renal sympathetic nerves, to assess more precisely the cardiomotor and vasomotor changes during interactions between brain stem stimulation and baroreceptor activation.

3. The sympatho‐inhibitory and depressor effects of carotid sinus stimulation or electrical stimulation of the sinus nerve could be completely suppressed by stimulation within the hypothalamic defence area, as could the reflex bradycardia. It is concluded that this suppression is effected through the central nervous system.

4. Stimulation at points in the hypothalamus close to, but outside, the defence area, and which elicited increases in arterial pressure and sympathetic activity of similar magnitude to those from the defence area itself, did not abolish the sympatho‐inhibitory or depressor effects of baroreceptor activation, though the reflex bradycardia was usually inhibited. It is suggested that this less localized change results from augmentation of the central inspiratory drive which inhibits the vagal outflow to the heart.
The change in the load‐sustaining ability and in the series elasticity in Mytilus smooth muscle during isotonic shortening.
Authors: Sugi H , Tsuchiya T
Published: August 2023

1. The change in the ability to sustain a load and the change in the series elasticity in the anterior byssal retractor muscle (a.b.r.m.) of Mytilus edulis during isotonic shortening was studied by recording the length changes following step changes in load. 2. When a load of 0.7‐‐0.9 P0 WAs applied after a period of isotonic shortening under a small load (0.05‐‐0.1 P0), the muscle fibres showed continuous isotonic lengthening, indicating a reduction in the ability to sustain a load during isotonic shortening. 3. Following the application of a load of 0.3‐‐0.6 P0 during isotonic shortening under a small load, the fibres exhibited a transient isotonic lengthening before starting to shorten isotonically, indicating some degree of restoration in the load‐sustaining ability after the step increase in load. 4. No appreciable reduction in the load‐sustaining ability was observed during isotonic shortening under a large load (more than 0.7 P0). 5. The load‐‐extension curves of the series elasticity determined during isotonic shortening were found to be scaled down roughly in proportion to the isotonic load. 6. The stiffness of the muscle fibres during the isotonic shortening approached a certain finite value, when the isotonic load tended to zero. If the stiffness was measured during the development of isometric tension, the stiffness‐‐isometric tension curve extrapolated towards the origin. 7. High‐speed cinematography during the step change in load indicated a fairly uniform distribution of the series elasticity along the length of the preparation. 8. These results are discussed in relation to the sliding filament model of muscle contraction.
Experimental Setup for In-Process Measurements and Analysis of Wear-Dependent Surface Topographies
Authors: Potthoff Nils , Liß Jan , Wiederkehr Petra
Published: August 2023

High-strength and corrosion-resistant materials, such as the nickel-based superalloy Inconel 718, are widely used in the energy and aerospace industries. However, machining these materials results in high process forces and significant tool wear. This tool wear negatively influences the resulting surface topography. Nevertheless, the accuracy requirements for functional surfaces are extremely high. Simulation systems can be used to design these processes. However, time-consuming and cost-intensive experiments often have to be conducted to develop and parameterize the required models. To overcome this problem, an analogy test setup for in-process measurements of wear-dependent properties was developed, which allows a multi-level evaluation of the process. By combining different measurement techniques, wear-dependent process characteristics can be determined and analyzed, which is usually only possible for initial and final conditions requiring a significant measurement effort.
Development of clinical-based scoring system to diagnose tuberculous meningitis in children
Authors: Handryastuti Setyo , Latifah Dianing , Bermanshah Evita Karianni , Gunardi Hartono , Kadim Muzal , Iskandar R Adhi Teguh Perma
Published: August 2023

Objective

Diagnosing tuberculous meningitis (TBM) in children is challenging due to the low sensitivity with time delay of bacterial culture techniques and the lack of brain imaging facilities in many low- and middle-income settings. This study aims to establish and test a scoring system consisting of clinical manifestations on history and examination for diagnosing TBM in children.

Design

A retrospective study was conducted using a diagnostic multivariable prediction model.

Participants

167 children diagnosed with meningitis (tuberculous, bacterial, viral and others) aged 3 months to 18 years who were hospitalised from July 2011 until November 2021 in a national tertiary hospital in Indonesia.

Results

Eight out of the 10 statistically significant clinical characteristics were used to develop a predictive model. These resulted in good discrimination and calibration variables, which divided into systemic features with a cut-off score of ≥3 (sensitivity 78.8%; specificity 86.6%; the area under the curve (AUC) value 0.89 (95% CI 0.85 to 0.95; p<0.001)) and neurological features with a cut-off score of ≥2 (sensitivity 61.2%; specificity 75.2%; the AUC value 0.73 (95% CI 0.66 to 0.81; p<0.001)). Combined together, this scoring system predicted the diagnosis of TBM with a sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value of 47.1%, 95.1% and 90.9%, respectively.

Conclusion

The clinical scoring system consisting of systemic and neurological features can be used to predict the diagnosis of TBM in children with limited resource setting. The scoring system should be assessed in a prospective cohort.
Role of urine culture in paediatric patients with cancer with fever and neutropenia: a prospective observational study
Authors: Alonso-Cadenas Jose Antonio , Sancosmed Ron Monica , Herrero Blanca , Lera Carballo Esther , Lassaletta Alvaro , Rodrigo Rocio , de la Torre Mercedes
Published: August 2023

Objective

To evaluate the need for routine urine studies in children with febrile neutropenia with cancer.

Design

A prospective, observational study was conducted in two hospitals between November 2019 and October 2021.

Patients

We recruited 205 patients in total.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome was presence of positive urine culture (UC). Urinary tract infection (UTI) was defined as urinary signs/symptoms and positive UC with or without pyuria. A descriptive analysis of data is provided.

We conducted a prospective study of paediatric patients with cancer with urinary continence. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The diagnostic performance of urinalysis was calculated using positive UC as the gold standard.

Results

Positive UC was found in 7 of the 205 patients (3.4%; 95% CI 1.4% to 6.9%), 2 presenting urinary symptoms. UTI prevalence was 1.0% (95% CI 0.1% to 3.5%). A 23.8% prevalence of positive UC was found in patients with urinary symptoms and/or history of urinary tract disease (95% CI 8.2% to 47.2%) as compared with 1.1% of those without symptoms or history (95% CI 0.1% to 3.9%) (p<0.001). The sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, and area under the curve for urinalysis were 16.7% (95% CI 3.0% to 56.4%), 98.4% (95% CI 95.3% to 99.4%), 97.3% (95% CI 93.9% to 98.9%), and 0.65 (95% CI 0.51 to 0.79), respectively.

Conclusions

UTI is an infrequent cause of infection in these patients. Urinalysis is indicated only in children with febrile neutropenia with urinary signs/symptoms and in asymptomatic patients with a history of urinary tract disease or unknown history. When urine is collected, UC should be requested regardless of the result of the urinalysis.
Outcome monitoring and risk stratification after cardiac procedure in neonates, infants, children and young adults born with congenital heart disease: protocol for a multicentre prospective cohort study (Children OMACp)
Authors: Baquedano Mai , de Jesus Samantha E , Rapetto Filippo , Murphy Gavin J , Angelini Gianni , Benedetto Umberto , Caldas Patricia , Srivastava Prashant K , Uzun Orhan , Luyt Karen , Gonzalez Corcia Cecilia , Taliotis Demetris , Stoica Serban , Lawlor Deborah A , Bamber Andrew R , Perry Alison , Skeffington Katie L , Omeje Ikenna , Pappachan John , Mumford Andrew D , Coward Richard J M , Kenny Damien , Caputo Massimo
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Congenital heart disease (CHD) represents the most common birth defect, affecting from 0.4% to 1.2% of children born in developed countries. The survival of these patients has increased significantly, but CHD remains one of the major causes of neonatal and childhood death. The aetiology of CHD is complex, with some evidence of both genetic and environmental causes. However, there is still lack of knowledge regarding modifiable risk factors and molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying the development of CHD. This study aims to develop a prospective cohort of patients undergoing cardiac procedures that will bring together routinely collected clinical data and biological samples from patients and their biological mothers, in order to investigate risk factors and predictors of postoperative-outcomes, as well as better understanding the effect of the surgical intervention on the early and long-term outcomes.

Methods and analysis

Children OMACp (OMACp, outcome monitoring after cardiac procedure in congenital heart disease) is a multicentre, prospective cohort study recruiting children with CHD undergoing a cardiac procedure. The study aims to recruit 3000 participants over 5 years (2019–2024) across multiple UK sites. Routine clinical data will be collected, as well as participant questionnaires collecting sociodemographic, NHS resource use and quality of life data. Biological samples (blood, urine and surgical waste tissue from patients, and blood and urine samples from biological mothers) will be collected where consent has been obtained. Follow-up outcome and questionnaire data will be collected for 5 years.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the London–Brent Research Ethics Committee on 30 July 2019 (19/SW/0113). Participants (or their parent/guardian if under 16 years of age) must provide informed consent prior to being recruited into the study. Mothers who wish to take part must also provide informed consent prior to being recruited. The study is sponsored by University Hospitals Bristol and Weston Foundation Trust and is managed by the University of Bristol. Children OMACp is adopted onto the National Institute for Health Research Clinical Research Network portfolio. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, presentation at conference, meetings and through patient organisations and newsletters.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN17650644.
Knowledge and willingness of schoolteachers in Jordan to perform CPR: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Alwidyan Mahmoud T , Alkhatib Zaid I , Alrawashdeh Ahmad , Oteir Alaa O , Khasawneh Eihab A , Alqudah Zainab , Albataineh Suha A , Abukheat Yamen
Published: August 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) knowledge and willingness of schoolteachers in Jordan.

Design

This was a cross-sectional study conducted using an online questionnaire.

Setting

For inclusion in this study, schoolteachers must be currently teaching at any level in schools across the country. Responses were collected from 1 April 2021 to 30 April 2021.

Participants

All schoolteachers actively working in public or private schools were included in our study.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Continuous variables were summarised as means and SD, whereas categorical variables were reported as frequencies and percentages (%). A χ2test for independence, independent sample t-tests and analysis of variance were used appropriately. A p-value less than 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance.

Results

A total of 385 questionnaires were eligible for analyses. Only 14.5% of the participants received CPR training and overall correct knowledge answers were 18.8% of the total score. Those participants with previous CPR training had higher mean knowledge scores (2.34 vs 1.15, p<0.001). Trained participants were also more likely to provide hands-only CPR to various patient groups than untrained participants (p<0.05). Participants were more willing to provide standard CPR to family members than hands-only CPR (p<0.001), but more willing to provide hands-only CPR to friends (p<0.001), students (75.1% vs 58.2%, p<0.001), neighbour (p<0.001), stranger (p=0.001) and patient from the opposite gender (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Schoolteachers in Jordan possess limited knowledge of CPR. However, the study participants showed a positive attitude towards performing CPR. The study revealed that they were more inclined to provide hands-only CPR than standard CPR. Policymakers and public health officials can take advantage of these findings to incorporate CPR training programmes for schoolteachers, either as a part of their undergraduate studies or as continuing education programmes with an emphasis on hands-only CPR.
Implementation of a multicomponent family support intervention in adult intensive care units: study protocol for an embedded mixed-methods multiple case study (FICUS implementation study)
Authors: Oesch Saskia , Verweij Lotte , Clack Lauren , Finch Tracy , Riguzzi Marco , Naef Rahel
Published: August 2023

Background

The implementation of complex interventions is considered challenging, particularly in multi-site clinical trials and dynamic clinical settings. This study protocol is part of the family intensive care units (FICUS) hybrid effectiveness-implementation study. It aims to understand the integration of a multicomponent family support intervention in the real-world context of adult intensive care units (ICUs). Specifically, the study will assess implementation processes and outcomes of the study intervention, including fidelity, and will enable explanation of the clinical effectiveness outcomes of the trial.

Methods and analysis

This mixed-methods multiple case study is guided by two implementation theories, the Normalisation Process Theory and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Participants are key clinical partners and healthcare professionals of eight ICUs allocated to the intervention group of the FICUS trial in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Data will be collected at four timepoints over the 18-month active implementation and delivery phase using qualitative (small group interviews, observation, focus group interviews) and quantitative data collection methods (surveys, logs). Descriptive statistics and parametric and non-parametric tests will be used according to data distribution to analyse within and between cluster differences, similarities and factors associated with fidelity and the level of integration over time. Qualitative data will be analysed using a pragmatic rapid analysis approach and content analysis.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was obtained from the Cantonal Ethics Committee of Zurich BASEC ID 2021-02300 (8 February 2022). Study findings will provide insights into implementation and its contribution to intervention outcomes, enabling understanding of the usefulness of applied implementation strategies and highlighting main barriers that need to be addressed for scaling the intervention to other healthcare contexts. Findings will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and conferences.

Protocol registration number

Open science framework (OSF)https://osf.io/8t2udRegistered on 21 December 2022.
Novel tripeptide RKH derived fromAkkermansia muciniphilaprotects against lethal sepsis
Authors: Xie Shihao , Li Jiaxin , Lyu Fengyuan , Xiong Qingming , Gu Peng , Chen Yuqi , Chen Meiling , Bao Jingna , Zhang Xianglong , Wei Rongjuan , Deng Youpeng , Wang Hongzheng , Zeng Zhenhua , Chen Zhongqing , Deng Yongqiang , Lian Zhuoshi , Zhao Jie , Gong Wei , Chen Ye , Liu Ke-Xuan , Duan Yi , Jiang Yong , Zhou Hong-Wei , Chen Peng
Published: August 2023

Objective

The pathogenesis of sepsis is complex, and the sepsis-induced systemic proinflammatory phase is one of the key drivers of organ failure and consequent mortality.Akkermansia muciniphila(AKK) is recognised as a functional probiotic strain that exerts beneficial effects on the progression of many diseases; however, whether AKK participates in sepsis pathogenesis is still unclear. Here, we evaluated the potential contribution of AKK to lethal sepsis development.

Design

Relative abundance of gut microbial AKK in septic patients was evaluated. Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) surgery and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection were employed to establish sepsis in mice. Non-targeted and targeted metabolomics analysis were used for metabolites analysis.

Results

We first found that the relative abundance of gut microbial AKK in septic patients was significantly reduced compared with that in non-septic controls. Live AKK supplementation, as well as supplementation with its culture supernatant, remarkably reduced sepsis-induced mortality in sepsis models. Metabolomics analysis and germ-free mouse validation experiments revealed that live AKK was able to generate a novel tripeptide Arg-Lys-His (RKH). RKH exerted protective effects against sepsis-induced death and organ damage. Furthermore, RKH markedly reduced sepsis-induced inflammatory cell activation and proinflammatory factor overproduction. A mechanistic study revealed that RKH could directly bind to Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and block TLR4 signal transduction in immune cells. Finally, we validated the preventive effects of RKH against sepsis-induced systemic inflammation and organ damage in a piglet model.

Conclusion

We revealed that a novel tripeptide, RKH, derived from live AKK, may act as a novel endogenous antagonist for TLR4. RKH may serve as a novel potential therapeutic approach to combat lethal sepsis after successfully translating its efficacy into clinical practice.
Palliative sedation determinants: systematic review and meta-analysis in palliative medicine
Authors: Tan Fang , Li Na , Wu Yan , Zhang Chuan
Published: August 2023

Background

The utilisation of palliative sedation is often favoured by patients approaching end of life due to the presence of multiple difficult-to-manage symptoms during the terminal stage. This study aimed to identify the determinants of the use of palliative sedation.

Methods

To identify pertinent observational studies, a comprehensive search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO databases from their inception until March 2022. The methodological quality of the chosen prospective and retrospective cohort studies was assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale, while the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the selected cross-sectional studies. For each potential determinant of interest, the collected data were synthesised and analysed, and in cases where data could not be combined, a narrative synthesis approach was adopted.

Results

A total of 21 studies were analysed in this research, consisting of 4 prospective cohort studies, 7 retrospective cohort studies, and 10 cross-sectional studies. The findings indicated that several determinants were significantly associated with palliative sedation. These determinants included younger age, male gender, presence of tumours, dyspnoea, pain, delirium, making advanced medical end-of-life decisions, and dying in a hospital setting.

Conclusions

The findings of our review could help physicians identify patients who may need palliative sedation in advance and implement targeted interventions to reverse refractory symptoms, develop personalized palliative sedation programs, and ultimately improve the quality of palliative care services.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration number CRD42022324720.
Price elasticity of cigarette smoking in Bangladesh: evidence from the Global Adult Tobacco Surveys (GATS)
Authors: Huque Rumana , Abdullah S M , Hossain Md Nazmul , Nargis Nigar
Published: August 2023

Introduction

The overall prevalence of cigarette smoking has not changed significantly for over a decade in Bangladesh. Raising the price of cigarettes through taxation is an important policy instrument for reducing consumption and achieving public health goals. The price elasticity of cigarette demand is an important parameter for evaluating the effectiveness of raising prices through tax increases in reducing cigarette consumption. The objective of the study was to estimate the price elasticity of cigarette demand in Bangladesh using Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2009 and 2017 data.

Methods

Smoking prevalence and smoking intensity were estimated using a two-part model. Endogeneity of prices was minimised using the average consumption-weighted cigarette price in a cluster, for both smokers and non-smokers residing in a specific cluster.

Results

Cigarette demand was found to be price inelastic and ranged between −0.51 and −0.73. It is also price inelastic across wealth groups and areas of residence in Bangladesh. Although the total price elasticity did not differ considerably between rural and urban locations, it is evident that individuals in the lower-wealth group are more than twice as responsive to price increases as their high-wealth counterparts.

Conclusion

A significant increase in cigarette prices through a tax increase would decrease smoking prevalence and increase tax revenue in Bangladesh. The greater price sensitivity among smokers in lower-wealth groups indicates that a tax-induced cigarette price increase would provide more health benefits to them, thereby contributing to improved health equity.
The first consolidation of morphological, molecular, and phylogeographic data for the finely differentiated genusDiaphoreolis(Nudibranchia: Trinchesiidae)
Authors: Korshunova Tatiana , Fletcher Karin , Bakken Torkild , Martynov Alexander
Published: August 2023

We demonstrate the application of the multilevel organismal diversity approach using the example of the nudibranch trinchesiid genus Diaphoreolis. For the first time, fine-scale morphological, genetic, and phylogeographic data are presented for all known species of the genus Diaphoreolis. One of the significant results of the present study and analysis is that the species D. stipata (Alder and Hancock, 1843) comb. nov., originally described from the North Atlantic and reinstated here, is revealed to be a sister species to the new NW Pacific species Diaphoreolis zvezda sp. nov. described from the Kuril Islands. Hidden diversity within the traditional taxon D. “ viridis” is revealed both in the North Pacific and the North Atlantic. A new subspecies, D. viridis emeraldi subsp. nov., is established for the Canadian and USA NE Pacific forms, and both morphological and molecular data are presented for the separate NW Pacific species D. midori. The present study combines practical results from a particular taxonomic group (nudibranchs) with generally important considerations for the expanding practice of uniting fine-scale morphological and molecular data.
Effects of deuteron breakup and nucleon-transfer reactions on d+$$^{11}$$B elastic scattering
Authors: Amar A. , Rusek K. , Hamada Sh.
Published: August 2023

A set of experimental data consisting of angular distributions of d+$$^{11}$$

11

B elastic and inelastic scattering and (d,t) reaction obtained at deuteron energy of 14.5 MeV as well as data sets for (d,p) (E$$_d$$

d

= 21.5 MeV), (d,n) (E$$_d$$

d

= 15.4 MeV) and (d,$$^3$$

3

He) (E$$_d$$

d

= 11.8 MeV) nucleon transfer reactions were analysed using the continuum-discretized coupled-channel (CDCC) and coupled-reaction channel (CRC) methods. It was found that at forward scattering angles the elastic scattering data are well described by parameter-free CDCC calculations which include breakup of the deuteron, but at more backward angles virtual effects due to target excitation and neutron-transfer reactions play an important role. The strongest effects are due to the excitation of $$^{11}$$

11

B and the neutron pickup reaction, reflecting their large cross sections. The effects induced by proton-transfer reactions are found to be negligible.
Electroweak superpartner production at 13.6 Tev with Resummino
Authors: Fiaschi Juri , Fuks Benjamin , Klasen Michael , Neuwirth Alexander
Published: August 2023

Due to the greater experimental precision expected from the currently ongoing LHC Run 3, equally accurate theoretical predictions are essential. We update the documentation of the Resummino package, a program dedicated to precision cross section calculations for the production of a pair of sleptons, electroweakinos, and leptons in the presence of extra gauge bosons, and for the production of an associated electroweakino-squark or electroweakino-gluino pair. We detail different additions that have been released since the initial version of the program a decade ago, and then use the code to investigate the impact of threshold resummation corrections at the next-to-next-to-leading-logarithmic accuracy. As an illustration of the code we consider the production of pairs of electroweakinos and sleptons at the LHC for centre-of-mass energies ranging up to 13.6 TeV and in simplified model scenarios. We find slightly increased total cross section values, accompanied by a significant decrease of the associated theoretical uncertainties. Furthermore, we explore the dependence of the results on the squark masses.
Radiological characterization for the disposal of a decommissioned LHC external beam dump at CERN
Authors: Infantino Angelo , Harbron Richard William , Mouret Renaud , Bertreix Philippe , Bernardes Ana-Paula , Bruno Luca , Calviani Marco , Dumont Gerald , El-Idrissi Safouane , Magistris Matteo , Menaa Nabil , Theis Chris , Tromel Christophe , Vincke Heinz
Published: August 2023

During the last Long Shutdown, a scheduled maintenance period between physics runs, the two Large Hadron Collider (LHC) beam dumps were replaced with upgraded spares modules. It was then decided to conduct an in-house autopsy and a post-irradiation examination of the removed dumps to extract information essential for the 3rd LHC physics run and to aid the design of new generations of beam dumps able to cope with future upgrades of the LHC. The need for a postmortem analysis of the dump cores opened the opportunity to combine the autopsy with processes required for the disposal of the dumps as radioactive waste at a dedicated disposal facility in France. This had a direct impact in terms of overall optimization of the interventions (postmortem analysis and prepackaging) to be performed on the dump as well as in terms of minimizing of the radiological risk (ALARA), by reducing the exposure of the personnel by combining two interventions in one. The characterization of the dump as radioactive waste was performed by means of state-of-the-art Monte Carlo and analytical techniques verified experimentally via a series of dedicated radiochemical (using liquid scintillation) analyses, conducted in-house and in external specialized laboratories. Based on these results, the dumps will be disposed of as intermediate–medium-level (FMA-VC) waste at the ANDRA CSA repository in France.
Nexus between energy consumption, climate risk development finance and GHG emissions
Authors: Gohar Raheel , Chang Bisharat Hussain , Uche Emmanuel , Uddin Mohammed Ahmar , Kalra Akash
Published: August 2023

Development financing focusing on climate hazards has become necessary in recent decades as a result of the rise in emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG). This study investigates how the Congo Basin’s greenhouse gas emissions are affected by using renewable energy sources and climate risk-related development financing. Multiple conclusions are drawn from panel regression analysis. First, there’s a slight but substantial rise in GHG emissions when climate risk-related development finance increases. Second, a boost in climate risk-related mitigation finance substantially encourages the introduction of renewable energy. Third, greater utilization of renewable energy results in a diminution in GHG emissions. Finally, greater utilization of the renewable energy minimizes the influence of the climate risk-related development finance. The research recommends creating a monitoring system to guarantee the effective use of climate funding for generating renewable energy sources, including wind, biomass, geothermal, hydropower, and solar energy. Additionally, it urges donor economies and authorities to provide emerging economies with a supplementary consistent and steady flow of financing for development mitigation connected to climate risk.