bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations Between Adolescent Sport and Exercise Participation and Device-Assessed Physical Activity in Adulthood: Evidence From the 1970 British Cohort Study
Authors: Scicluna Nicholas , Hamer Mark , Blodgett Joanna M.
Published: May 2023

Background: Adolescence is a critical period filled with life changes. Early implementation of effective health promotion strategies could help alleviate the morbidity and mortality associated with inactivity. This study investigated whether adolescent participation in exercise and sport is associated with device-assessed physical activity (PA) levels in midlife. Methods: A total of 2984 participants (41.2% male) from the 1970 British Cohort Study were included. Participants were surveyed at age 16 years on 5 indicators of exercise and sport participation. Total daily PA and moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) at age 46 years were measured using a thigh-worn accelerometer, worn for 7 days. Associations between each adolescent exercise or sport indicator and adulthood total daily PA and MVPA were examined using linear regressions, adjusting for sex, wear time, body mass index, smoking, disability, malaise, alcohol consumption, social class, education, and self-rated health. Results: In fully adjusted models, adolescents who reported exercising “much more” than others (8.6 min/d; 95% confidence interval, −0.1 to 17.1), who played sports at the park/playground more than once a week (8.5 [3.0–14.0] min/d), and who exercised on the most recent Saturday (3.8 [0.7–6.9] min/d) had higher adult total PA levels than those who reported the lowest activity levels. There was no evidence of an association between greater sport and exercise participation at age 16 y and MVPA at age 46 y. There was no association between sports at school and either measure of adult PA. Conclusion: Active adolescents, particularly those who engaged in out-of-school exercise, had higher total daily PA levels, but not MVPA levels, in midlife. This highlights the potential of early PA interventions to improve PA levels in adulthood.
Newly Discovered Antimicrobial Peptide Scyampcin
44–63
from Scylla paramamosain Exhibits a Multitargeted Candidacidal Mechanism
In Vitro
and Is Effective in a Murine Model of Vaginal Candidiasis
Authors: Zhou Ying , Meng Xiangyu , Chen Fangyi , Xiong Ming , Zhang Weibin , Wang Ke-Jian
Published: May 2023

The emergence of azole-resistant and biofilm-forming
Candida
spp. contributes to the constantly increasing incidence of vulvovaginal candidiasis. It is imperative to explore new antifungal drugs or potential substituents, such as antimicrobial peptides, to alleviate the serious crisis caused by resistant fungi.
Heightened Efficacy of Anidulafungin When Used in Combination with Manogepix or 5-Flucytosine against Candida auris
In Vitro
Authors: John Larissa L.H. , Thomson Darren D. , Bicanic Tihana , Hoenigl Martin , Brown Alistair J.P. , Harrison Thomas S. , Bignell Elaine M.
Published: May 2023

Candida auris
is an emerging, multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen that causes refractory colonization and life-threatening, invasive nosocomial infections. The high proportion of
C. auris
isolates that display antifungal resistance severely limits treatment options.
Host Immunity and Immunization Strategies for Clostridioides difficile Infection
Authors: Naz Farha , Petri William A.
Published: May 2023

Clostridioides difficile
infection (CDI) represents a significant challenge to public health.
C. difficile
-associated mortality and morbidity have led the U.S. CDC to designate it as an urgent threat.
Physiological Role of pH-Dependent Structural Transition in Oxygen-Evolving Complex of PSII
Authors: Semin B. K. , Davletshina L. N. , Loktyushkin A. V. , Lovyagina E. R.
Published: May 2023

Photosystem II (PSII) of the photosynthetic apparatus in oxygenic organisms contains a catalytic center that performs one of the most important reactions in bioenergetics: light-dependent water oxidation to molecular oxygen. The catalytic center is a Mn4CaO5 cluster consisting of four cations of manganese and one calcium cation linked by oxygen bridges. The authors reported earlier that a structural transition occurs at pH 5.7 in the cluster resulting in changes in manganese cation(s) redox potential and elevation of the Mn‑clus-ter resistance to reducing agents. The discovered effect was examined in a series of investigations that are reviewed in this work. It was found that, at pH 5.7, Fe(II) cations replace not two manganese cations as it happens at pH 6.5 but only one cation; as a result, a chimeric Mn3Fe1 cluster is produced. In the presence of exogenous calcium ions, membrane preparations of PSII with such a chimeric cluster are capable of evolving oxygen in the light (at a rate of approximately 25% of the rate in native PSII). It was found that photoinhibition that greatly depends on the processes of oxidation or reduction at pH 5.7 slows down as compared with pH 6.5. PSII preparations were also more resistant to thermal inactivation at pH 5.7 than at pH 6.5. However, in PSII preparations lacking manganese cations in the oxygen-evolving complex, the rates of photoinhibition at pH 6.5 and 5.7 did not differ. In thylakoid membranes, protonophores that abolish the proton gradient and increase pH in the lumen (where the manganese cluster is located) from 5.7 to 7.0 considerably elevated the rate of PSII photoinhibition. It is assumed that the structural transition in the Mn-cluster at pH 5.7 is involved in the mechanisms of PSII defense against photoinhibition.
Luetic (syphilitic) hepatitis: the great imitator persists in the 21st century
Authors: Mullally Daniel , Kotha Sreelakshmi , Mandour Mandour Omar , Berry Philip
Published: May 2023

A male patient in his 20s was referred to the hepatology team with jaundice, pruritus and drenching night sweats. Investigations revealed an acute hepatitis with negative autoimmune and viral serology. Liver biopsy demonstrated severe pan-lobular hepatitis, and an extended diagnostic screen included a positive treponemal antibody test, with an RPR titre of 64, indicating active syphilis infection. He was treated with 2.4 million units of intramuscular benzathine penicillin as a single dose which led to complete resolution of the abnormal liver tests and symptoms. Diagnostic and management challenges, including the role of good history taking, appropriate investigations and role of multidisciplinary team, are discussed.
Measuring experience of and satisfaction with newborn care: a scoping review of tools and measures
Authors: Minckas Nicole , Kharel Rashmi , Ryan-Coker Marcella , Lincetto Ornella , Tunçalp Özge , Sacks Emma , Muzigaba Moise , Portela Anayda
Published: May 2023

Background

Standardised measures on experience of care are essential to understanding the care women and newborns receive and to designing appropriate interventions and responses. This review builds on ongoing work in the realm of maternity care and complements it by reviewing existing tools and measures to assess experience of and satisfaction with the care of the newborn.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review of published literature to identify measures and tools of experience (physiological or indirect) and satisfaction with newborn care. We systematically searched five bibliographic databases from 1 January 2010 through 1 December 2022 and contacted professional networks. Using a predefined evidence template, we extracted data on the studies and the tools’ characteristics. We mapped the tools and measures against the WHO quality of care frameworks to identify the most frequent measured domains of care and to highlight existing gaps.

Result

We identified 18 292 records of which 72 were eligible. An innovative finding of this review is the inclusion of newborn perspectives through behavioural responses, physiological signals, pain profiles as well as other non-verbal cues as markers of newborn experience. Domains related to parental participation and decision-making, ensuring continuity of care and receiving coordinated care, were the most measured across the included tools.

Conclusion

Comprehensive and validated instruments measuring all aspects of care are needed. Developing a robust theoretical ground will be fundamental to the design and utilisation of standardised tools and measures.

Protocol registration details

This review was registered and published on protocol.io (dx.doi.org/10.17504/protocols.io.bvk7n4zn).
Efficacy and safety ofGinkgo bilobadropping pills in the treatment of coronary heart disease with stable angina pectoris and depression: study protocol for a randomised, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, double-blind and multicentre clinical trial
Authors: Wu Tingchun , Li Sijing , Li Ziru , Long Wenjie , Liu Qingqing , Tang Huimin , Huang Xi , Tang Yaqin , Dong Xiaoming , Ning Yile , Tian Shui , Xu Tao , Xian Shao-Xiang , Liao Huili , Hong Yu , Yang Zhongqi
Published: May 2023

Background

Coronary heart disease(CHD) with stable angina pectoris is a common cardiovascular disease. It has been reported that 10%–81.4% of these patients suffer from psychological conditions,such as depression, which has been associated with more frequent angina, lower treatment satisfaction and lower perceived quality of life.Ginkgo bilobaextract (GBE), the raw material ofGinkgo bilobadropping pills (GBDPs), is widely used to treat various conditions, including cardiovascular disease, ischaemic cerebrovascular disease, and depression. This clinical trial aimed to examine the efficacy and safety of GBDPs in improving the frequency of angina pectoris and the life quality of patients with stable angina pectoris and depression symptoms.

Methods

This randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group and multicentre clinical trial will be conducted in four medical centres in China. We aim to recruit approximately 72 participants aged 18–75 years with depression and coronary heart disease with stable angina pectoris. Based on conventional drug treatment, participants will be randomly assignedto the treatment group (GBDPs group; n=36) or the control group (placebo group; n=36) at a 1:1 allocation ratio. After randomisation,follow-up will be done at 4 weeks, 8 weeks and 12 weeks (±3 days). Additionally, 30 healthy individuals will be enrolled to investigate the underlying pharmacological mechanisms of the effects of GBE. The primary outcomes will be the Seattle Angina Questionnaire score and the frequency of angina pectoris-related symptoms each week. The secondary outcomes will include the 36-item Short Form Health Survey quality-of-life scale, Hamilton Depression Scale and composite endpoint incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial has been approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, China (approval number: ZYYECK [2020]030). Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants. The results of this trial will be publicly shared through academic conferences and peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

NCT04529148and ChiCTR2200066908.
Moral uncertainty and distress about voluntary assisted dying prior to legalisation and the implications for post-legalisation practice: a qualitative study of palliative and hospice care providers in Queensland, Australia
Authors: Kirchhoffer David G , Lui Chi-Wai , Ho Anita
Published: May 2023

Objectives

There is little research on moral uncertainties and distress of palliative and hospice care providers (PHCPs) working in jurisdictions anticipating legalising voluntary assisted dying (VAD). This study examines the perception and anticipated concerns of PHCPs in providing VAD in the State of Queensland, Australia prior to legalisation of the practice in 2021. The findings help inform strategies to facilitate training and support the health and well-being of healthcare workers involved in VAD.

Design

The study used a qualitative approach to examine and analyse the perception and anticipated concerns of PHCPs regarding challenges of providing assisted dying in Queensland. Fourteen PHCPs were recruited using a purposive sampling strategy to obtain a broad representation of perspectives including work roles, geographical locations and workplace characteristics. Data were collected via one in-depth interview per participant. The transcripts were coded for patterns and themes using an inductive analysis approach following the tradition of Grounded Theory.

Setting

The study was conducted in hospital, hospice, community and residential aged care settings in Queensland, Australia. These included public and private facilities, secular and faith-based facilities, and regional/rural and urban facilities.

Participants

Interviews were conducted with fourteen PHCPs: 10 nurses and 4 physicians; 11 female and 3 male. The median number of years of palliative care practice was 17, ranging from 2 to 36 years. For inclusion, participants had to be practising palliative and hospice care providers.

Results

PHCPs are divided on whether VAD should be considered part of palliative care. Expectations of moral distress and uncertainty about practising VAD were identified in five areas: handling requests, assessing patient capacity, arranging patient transfers and logistical issues, managing unsuccessful attempts, and dealing with team conflicts and stigma.

Conclusions

The possibility of having to practise VAD causes moral distress and uncertainty for some PHCPs. Procedural clarity can address some uncertainties; moral and psychological distress, however, remains a source of tension that needs support to ensure ongoing care of both patients and PHCPs. The introduction of VAD post-legalisation may present an occasion for further moral education and development of PHCPs.
Self-care interventions for preconception, antenatal, intrapartum and postpartum care: a scoping review
Authors: Nguyen Phi-Yen , Caddy Cassandra , Wilson Alyce N , Blackburn Kara , Page Matthew J , Gülmezoglu A Metin , Narasimhan Manjulaa , Bonet Mercedes , Tunçalp Özge , Vogel Joshua P
Published: May 2023

Objective

To identify current and emerging self-care interventions to improve maternity healthcare.

Design

Scoping review.

Data sources

MEDLINE, Embase, EmCare, PsycINFO, Cochrane CENTRAL/CDSR, CINAHL Plus (last searched on 17 October 2021).

Eligibility criteria

Evidence syntheses, interventional or observational studies describing any tool, resource or strategy to facilitate self-care in women preparing to get pregnant, currently pregnant, giving birth or post partum.

Data extraction/synthesis

Screening and data collection were conducted independently by two reviewers. Self-care interventions were identified based on predefined criteria and inductively organised into 11 categories. Characteristics of study design, interventions, participants and outcomes were recorded.

Results

We identified eligible 580 studies. Many included studies evaluated interventions in high-income countries (45%) and during antenatal care (76%). Self-care categories featuring highest numbers of studies were diet and nutrition (26% of all studies), physical activity (24%), psychosocial strategies (18%) and other lifestyle adjustments (17%). Few studies featured self-care interventions for sexual health and postpartum family planning (2%), self-management of medication (3%) and self-testing/sampling (3%). Several venues to introduce self-care were described: health facilities (44%), community venues (14%), digital platforms (18%), partner/peer support (7%) or over-the-counter products (13%). Involvement of health and community workers were described in 38% and 8% of studies, who supported self-care interventions by providing therapeutics for home use, training or counselling. The most common categories of outcomes evaluated were neonatal outcomes (eg, birth weight) (31%), maternal mental health (26%) and labour outcomes (eg, duration of labour) (22%).

Conclusion

Self-care interventions in maternal care are diverse in their applications, implementation characteristics and intended outcomes. Many self-care interventions were implemented with support from the health system at initial stages of use and uptake. Some promising self-care interventions require further primary research, though several are matured and up-to-date evidence syntheses are needed. Research on self-care in the preconception period is lacking.
Using experience-based co-design (EBCD) to develop high-level design principles for a visual identification system for people with dementia in acute hospital ward settings
Authors: Macdonald Alastair , Kuberska Karolina , Stockley Naomi , Fitzsimons Bev
Published: May 2023

Objectives

We tested a modified co-design process to develop a set of high-level design principles for visual identification systems (VIS) for hospitalised people with dementia.

Design

We designed and ran remote workshops in three phases with carers of people with dementia and healthcare staff. In phase 1 we presented participants with scenarios based on findings from prior research, prompting participants to discuss their own experiences of VIS. Phase 2 used more future-focused scenarios, prompting participants to co-design improved VIS. In phase 3, a set of provisional design principles developed from our analysis of phases 1 and 2 data were discussed.

Setting

Online workshops.

Participants

A total of 26 carers and 9 healthcare staff took part in a pilot and three separate workshops.

Results

We identified a set of six dementia-friendly design principles for improving the effectiveness of VIS: (1) The hospital trust provides a professionally-trained workforce and an appropriate culture of care; (2) the symbol is easily recognisable and well understood; (3) key personal information is readily available and accessible; (4) key personal information is integrated into the electronic patient record; (5) relatives and carers are involved in providing key information and monitoring care; (6) the principles need to function as a system to be successful. Participants suggested that, in addition to the use of an identifier and key personal information, professional standards training, effective information and records management and improved means to involve carers and/or families were key to the effective operation of VIS, leading us to expand a narrow understanding of a VIS.

Conclusion

Using a scenario-led co-design approach can help trigger useful discussions with staff and carer groups, identify current problems with VIS and develop a set of high-level design principles for their improvement. These principles reveal day-to-day frictions that require further attention and resolution.
Atorvastatin and the influence on postoperative atrial fibrillation after surgical aortic valve replacement (STARC) in adults at Odense University Hospital, Denmark: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Krasniqi Lytfi , Brandes Axel , Mortensen Poul Erik , Dahl Jordi Sanchez , Gerke Oke , Ali Mulham , Riber Lars Peter Schødt
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common postoperative complication after surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) and occurs in up to 50% of the patients. Development of postoperative AF (POAF) is associated with a 2–3 fold increased risk of adverse events, including stroke, myocardial infarction and death.

Several studies have implied that prophylactic Atorvastatin therapy could prevent POAF in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft. These studies suggest that Atorvastatin has rapid and significant pleiotropic actions that reduce the risk of POAF. However, prophylactic treatment with statins has yet to be understood in SAVR. The aim of this study is to investigate whether prophylactic administration of torvastatin reduces POAF in patients undergoing SAVR.

Methods and analysis

In this investigator-initiated, prospective, parallel-group, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled single-centre trial, 266 patients undergoing elective solitary SAVR with bioprosthetic valve, with no prior history of AF, and statin-naïve will be randomised (1:1) to treatment with Atorvastatin (80 mg once daily) or matching placebo for 1–2 weeks prior to and 30 days after surgery. The primary endpoint is POAF defined as an episode of irregular RR-intervals without a traceable p-wave of at least 30 s duration. After discharge and until day 30 after surgery, POAF will be documented by either rhythm strip or 12-lead ECG.

Ethics and dissemination

Protocol approval has been obtained from the Regional Scientific Ethical Committee for Southern Denmark (S-20210159), The Danish Medicines Agency (2021103821) and the Data Protection Agency (21/65621).

The trial is conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki, the ICH-GCP (International Conference on Harmonisation Good Clinical Practice) guidelines and the legal regulations of Denmark. Study findings will be shared via peer-reviewed journal publication and conference presentations.

Trial registration number

NCT05076019.
Awareness, predictors and outcomes of drug alerts among people who access harm reduction services in British Columbia, Canada: findings from a 2021 cross-sectional survey
Authors: Daowd Kerolos , Ferguson Max , Liu Lisa , Loyal Jackson , Lock Kurt , Graham Brittany , Lamb Jessica , McDougall Jenny , Buxton Jane A
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To assess the awareness and predictors of seeing/hearing a drug alert in British Columbia (BC) and subsequent drug use behaviour after seeing/hearing an alert.

Methods

This study analysed the 2021 BC harm reduction client survey (HRCS)—a cross-sectional self-reported survey administered at harm reduction sites throughout the province and completed by participants using the services.

Results

In total, n=537 respondents participated and n=482 (89.8%) responded to the question asking if they saw/heard a drug alert. Of those, n=300 (62.2%) stated that they saw/heard a drug alert and almost half reported hearing from a friend or peer network; the majority (67.4%) reported altering their drug use behaviour to be safer after seeing/hearing a drug alert. The proportion of individuals who saw/heard a drug alert increased with each ascending age category. Among health authorities, there were significant differences in the odds of seeing/hearing an alert. In the past 6 months, the odds of participants who attended harm reduction sites a few times per month seeing/hearing an alert were 2.73 (95% CI: 1.17 to 6.52) times the odds of those who did not. Those who attended more frequently were less likely to report seeing/hearing a drug alert. The odds of those who witnessed an opioid-related overdose in the past 6 months seeing/hearing an alert were 1.96 (95% CI: 0.86 to 4.50) times the odds of those who had not.

Conclusion

We found that drug alerts were mostly disseminated through communication with friends or peers and that most participants altered their drug use behaviour after seeing/hearing a drug alert. Therefore, drug alerts can play a role in reducing harms from substance use and more work is needed to reach diverse populations, such as younger people, those in differing geographical locations, and those who attend harm reduction sites more frequently.
Systematic review on the involvement and engagement of patients as advisers for the organisation of organ transplantation services
Authors: Qu Zhi , Oedingen Carina , Bartling Tim , Krauth Christian , Schrem Harald
Published: May 2023

Objectives

This systematic review aims to derive practical lessons from publications on patient involvement and engagement in the organisation of organ transplantation services.

Design

This systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses. Inclusion criteria for the analysis of publications in English cited in the databases PubMed and Web of Science until 6 December 2022 required that patients participated as advisers in the organisation of organ transplantation services. Quality assessment was performed using the Guidance for Reporting Involvement of Patients and the Public (GRIPP) 2 small form and the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool for the assessment of the risks of bias.

Results

Deployed search strings identified 2263 records resulting in a total of 11 articles. The aims and strategies, deployed methods, observed effects, observed barriers and proposed improvements for the future varied vastly. All reported that well-developed programmes involving and engaging patients at an organisational level provide additional benefits for patients and foster patient-centred care. Lessons learnt include: (1) to empower patients, the information provided to them should be individualised to prioritise their needs; (2) financial as well as organisational resources are important to successfully implement patient involvement and engagement; (3) systematic feedback from patients in organisational structures to health providers is required to improve clinical workflows and (4) the consideration of ethical issues and the relationship between investigators and participating patients should be clarified and reported.

Conclusions

Actionable management recommendations could be derived. The quantitative impact on clinical outcome and economic clinical process improvements remains to be investigated. Study quality can be improved using the GRIPP 2 guidance and the CASP tool.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022186467.
Repurposing the Ordering of Routine Laboratory Tests in Hospitalised Medical Patients (RePORT): results of a cluster randomised stepped-wedge quality improvement study
Authors: Ambasta Anshula , Omodon Onyebuchi , Herring Alyssa , Ferrie Leah , Pokharel Surakshya , Mehta Ashi , Liu Liberty , Hews-Girard Julia , Tam Cheuk , Taylor Simon , Lonergan Kevin , Faris Peter , Duncan Diane , Woodhouse Douglas
Published: May 2023

Background

Low-value use of laboratory tests is a global challenge. Our objective was to evaluate an intervention bundle to reduce repetitive use of routine laboratory testing in hospitalised patients.

Methods

We used a stepped-wedge design to implement an intervention bundle across eight medical units. Our intervention included educational tools and social comparison reports followed by peer-facilitated report discussion sessions. The study spanned October 2020–June 2021, divided into control, feasibility testing, intervention and a follow-up period. The primary outcomes were the number and costs of routine laboratory tests ordered per patient-day. We used generalised linear mixed models, and analyses were by intention to treat.

Results

We included a total of 125 854 patient-days. Patient groups were similar in age, sex, Charlson Comorbidity Index and length of stay during the control, intervention and follow-up periods. From the control to the follow-up period, there was a 14% (incidence rate ratio (IRR)=0.86, 95% CI 0.79 to 0.92) overall reduction in ordering of routine tests with the intervention, along with a 14% (β coefficient=−0.14, 95% CI −0.07 to –0.21) reduction in costs of routine testing. This amounted to a total cost savings of $C1.15 per patient-day. There was also a 15% (IRR=0.85, 95% CI 0.79, 0.92) reduction in ordering of all common tests with the intervention and a 20% (IRR=1.20, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.30) increase in routine test-free patient-days. No worsening was noted in patient safety endpoints with the intervention.

Conclusions

A multifaceted intervention bundle using education and facilitated multilevel social comparison was associated with a safe and effective reduction in use of routine daily laboratory testing in hospitals. Further research is needed to understand how system-level interventions may increase this effect and which intervention elements are necessary to sustain results.
Drug-induced hyperammonaemia
Authors: Shakerdi Loai , Ryan Aidan
Published: May 2023

Hyperammonaemia (HA) as a consequence of numerous primary or secondary causes, gives rise to clinical manifestations due to its toxic effects on the brain. The neurological consequences broadly reflect the ammonia level, duration and age, with paediatric patients being more susceptible. Drug-induced HA may arise due to either decreased ammonia elimination or increased production. This is associated most frequently with use of valproate and presents a dilemma between ongoing therapeutic need, toxicity and the possibility of an alternative cause. As there is no specific test for drug-induced HA, prompt discussion with a metabolic physician is recommended, as the neurotoxic effects are time-dependent. Specific guidelines for managing drug-induced HA have yet to be published and hence the treatment approach outlined in this review reflects that outlined in relevant urea cycle disorder guidelines.
Association of nicotine replacement therapy product sales with menthol cigarette sales restriction in Massachusetts
Authors: Asare Samuel , Xue Zheng , Bandi Priti , Westmaas Johann Lee , Jemal Ahmedin , Nargis Nigar
Published: May 2023

Background

Massachusetts was the first to implement a state-wide menthol cigarette sales restriction in the USA. Following its implementation in June 2020, evidence showed declines in cigarette sales in Massachusetts; however, changes in nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) product sales are unknown.

Methods

This cohort study analysed NRT products sold by US-based retailers available in 26 states from the Nielsen Retail Scanner Data. Outcomes were state-level 4-week aggregate sales of gum, lozenge and patch NRT products converted into pieces per 1000 adults (aged ≥18 years) who smoke cigarettes based on smoking rates from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and corresponding population from the US Census Bureau. We used a difference-in-differences method to compare changes in NRT product sales in Massachusetts before (1 January 2017 to 13 June 2020) and after (14 June 2020 to 4 December 2021) the policy with sales in 25 states.

Results

The analysis included 1664 observations for each NRT product, with 1170 from before and 494 from after the policy change. The 4-week NRT product sales per 1000 adults who smoke cigarettes in Massachusetts compared with the comparison states increased for gums by 643.11 (95% CI 365.33 to 920.89; p<0.001) pieces or 12.9% and for lozenges by 436.97 (95% CI 292.88 to 581.06; p<0.001) pieces or 17.9% but no statistically significant change in patches after implementing the policy.

Conclusion

The increases in sales of gum and lozenge NRT products in Massachusetts after implementing the policy suggest that a nationwide ban on menthol cigarettes can increase NRT product use; therefore, interventions are needed to strengthen cessation support for adults who smoke cigarettes but intend to quit.
Genomics-based taxonomy to clarify cannabis classification
Authors: Lapierre Éliana , Monthony Adrian S. , Torkamaneh Davoud
Published: May 2023

In the 18th century, Carolus Linnaeus created a formalized system of classification of living organisms based on their anatomic relationships, which we know as taxonomic nomenclature. Historically, the genus Cannabis has been described three ways under this system: Cannabis sativa by C. Linnaeus in 1753, Cannabis indica by J.B. Lamarck in 1785, and Cannabis ruderalis by D.E. Janischewsky in 1924, with these taxonomic classifications having been derived from physical, morphological, chemical, and geographical data. Today, this confusing taxonomy has led to an ongoing debate about whether the genus Cannabis consists of a single species or multiple distinct species or subspecies. Recently, genome sequencing and bioinformatics have provided greater resolution of taxonomic assignments at the species level. As a result, some previously discussed classification frameworks have been brought into question. The aim of this review is to provide a historical context for the confusion surrounding the taxonomy of the genus Cannabis and highlight recent research on genomics-based taxonomical approaches to clarify the question of Cannabis taxonomy. We suggest that the latest evidence shifts away from the previous multiple species framework and points towards the genus Cannabis consisting of a highly diverse monotypic species.
The pentaquark spectrum from Fermi statistics
Authors: Maiani Luciano , Polosa Antonio D. , Riquer Veronica
Published: May 2023

We study compact hidden charm pentaquarks in the Born–Oppenheimer approximation, previously introduced for tetraquarks, assuming the heavy pair to be in a color octet. We show that Fermi statistics applied to the complex of the three light quarks, also in color octet, requires S-wave pentaquark ground states to consist of three octets of flavour-SU(3)$$_f$$

f

, two with spin 1/2 and one with spin 3/2, in line with the observed, strangeness $$S=0,-1$$

S
=
0
,
-
1

, spectrum. Additional lines corresponding to decays into $$J/\psi +\Sigma $$

J
/
ψ
+
Σ

and $$J/\psi +\Xi $$

J
/
ψ
+
Ξ

are predicted. In the language of non-relativistic SU(6), ground state pentaquarks form either a $${\varvec{56}}$$

56

or a $${\varvec{20}}$$

20

representation, distinguished by presence or absence of pentaquarks decaying in the spin 3/2 decuplet, e.g. in $$J/\psi +\Delta ^{++}$$

J
/
ψ
+

Δ

+
+

. Observation of a strangeness $$S=-2$$

S
=
-
2

or isospin $$I=3/2$$

I
=
3
/
2

pentaquarks would be a clear signature of compact, QCD bound pentaquarks.
Revisiting cosmography via Gaussian process
Authors: Liu Jinyi , Qiao Ling , Chang Baorong , Xu Lixin
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we revisit the kinematical state of our Universe via the cosmographic approach by using Gaussian process, where the minimum assumption is the cosmological principle, i.e. the Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker metric. A obviously distinguished feature is that these cosmography parameters are free of any gravity theories and cosmological models. And Gaussian process is independent of any specific parameterized forms of function. Thus by transformations these generic cosmography parameters can be used to constrain a cosmological model and dark energy model directly at the kinematics level of our Universe. As a result, a series of cosmography parameters up to the fifth oder, i.e. the Hubble parameter H(z), the deceleration parameter q(z), the jerk parameter j(z), the snap parameter s(z) and the lerk parameter l(z), evolve with respect to the redshift z are reconstructed from the cosmic observations which include the recently released Pantheon+ SN Ia samples and the observational Hubble data H(z), also dubbed as cosmic chronometers. The result shows the transition redshift from a decelerated expansion to an accelerated expansion $$z_t=0.652^{+0.054}_{-0.043}$$

z
t

=
0
.

652

-
0.043

+
0.054

which is consistent with the previous results.
Interpolating matrix models for WLZZ series
Authors: Mironov A. , Mishnyakov V. , Morozov A. , Popolitov A. , Wang Rui , Zhao Wei-Zhong
Published: May 2023

We suggest a two-matrix model depending on three (infinite) sets of parameters which interpolates between all the models proposed in Wang et al. (Eur Phys J C 82:902,arXiv:2206.13038, 2022) and defined there throughW-representations. We also discuss further generalizations of the WLZZ models, realized byW-representations associated with infinite commutative families of generators of$$w_\infty $$w∞-algebra which are presumably related to more sophisticated multi-matrix models. Integrable properties of these generalizations are described by what we call the skew hypergeometric$$\tau $$τ-functions.
Identification of a seven autophagy-related gene pairs signature for the diagnosis of colorectal cancer using the RankComp algorithm
Authors: Song Qi-Shi , Wu Hai-Jun , Lin Qian , Tang Yu-Kai
Published: May 2023

Based on the colorectal cancer microarray sets gene expression data series (GSE) GSE10972 and GSE74602 in colon cancer and 222 autophagy-related genes, the differential signature in colorectal cancer and paracancerous tissues was analyzed by RankComp algorithm, and a signature consisting of seven autophagy-related reversal gene pairs with stable relative expression orderings (REOs) was obtained. Scoring based on these gene pairs could significantly distinguish colorectal cancer samples from adjacent noncancerous samples, with an average accuracy of 97.5% in two training sets and 90.25% in four independent validation GSE21510, GSE37182, GSE33126, and GSE18105. Scoring based on these gene pairs also accurately identifies 99.85% of colorectal cancer samples in seven other independent datasets containing a total of 1406 colorectal cancer samples.
Optimized Quadrature Rules for Isogeometric Frequency Analysis of Wave Equations Using Cubic Splines
Authors: Xu Xiaolan , Hou Songyang , Wu Zhenyu , Wang Dongdong
Published: May 2023

An optimization of quadrature rules is presented for the isogeometric frequency analysis of wave equations using cubic splines. In order to optimize the quadrature rules aiming at improving the frequency accuracy, a frequency error measure corresponding to arbitrary four-point quadrature rule is developed for the isogeometric formulation with cubic splines. Based upon this general frequency error measure, a superconvergent four-point quadrature rule is found for the cubic isogeometric formulation that achieves two additional orders of frequency accuracy in comparison with the sixth-order accuracy produced by the standard approach using four-point Gauss quadrature rule. One interesting observation is that the first and last integration points of the superconvergent four-point quadrature rule go beyond the domain of conventional integration element. However, these exterior integration points pose no difficulty on the numerical implementation. Subsequently, by recasting the general four-point quadrature rule into a three-point formation, the proposed frequency error measure also reveals that the three-point Gauss quadrature rule is unique among possible three-point rules to maintain the same sixth-order convergence rate as the four-point Gauss quadrature rule for the cubic isogeometric formulation. These theoretical results are clearly demonstrated by numerical examples.
NeLT: Object-Oriented Neural Light Transfer
Authors: Zheng Chuankun , Huo Yuchi , Mo Shaohua , Zhong Zhihua , Wu Zhizhen , Hua Wei , Wang Rui , Bao Hujun
Published: May 2023

This article presents object-oriented neural light transfer (NeLT), a novel neural representation of the dynamic light transportation between an object and the environment. Our method disentangles the global illumination of a scene into individual objects’ light transportation represented via neural networks, then composes them explicitly. It therefore enables flexible rendering with dynamic lighting, cameras, materials, and objects. Our rendering features various important global illumination effects, such as diffuse illumination, glossy illumination, dynamic shadowing, and indirect illumination, which completes the capability of existing neural object representation. Experiments show that NeLT does not require path tracing or shading results as input but achieves rendering quality comparable to state-of-the-art rendering frameworks, including the recent deep learning based denoisers.
Visual Dysfunction in Diabetes
Authors: Eggers Erika D.
Published: May 2023

Although diabetic retinopathy (DR) is clinically diagnosed as a vascular disease, many studies find retinal neuronal and visual dysfunction before the onset of vascular DR. This suggests that DR should be viewed as a neurovascular disease. Prior to the onset of DR, human patients have compromised electroretinograms that indicate a disruption of normal function, particularly in the inner retina. They also exhibit reduced contrast sensitivity. These early changes, especially those due to dysfunction in the inner retina, are also seen in rodent models of diabetes in the early stages of the disease. Rodent models of diabetes exhibit several neuronal mechanisms, such as reduced evoked GABA release, increased excitatory glutamate signaling, and reduced dopamine signaling, that suggest specific neuronal deficits. This suggests that understanding neuronal deficits may lead to early diabetes treatments to ameliorate neuronal dysfunction.
Rapid adaptation of primate LGN neurons to drifting grating stimulation
Authors: Daumail Loïc , Carlson Brock M. , Mitchell Blake A. , Cox Michele A. , Westerberg Jacob A. , Johnson Cortez , Martin Paul R. , Tong Frank , Maier Alexander , Dougherty Kacie
Published: May 2023

Neural adaptation can be defined as reduction of spiking responses following repeated or prolonged stimulation. Adaptation helps adjust neural responsiveness to avoid saturation and has been suggested to improve perceptual selectivity, information transmission, and predictive coding. Here, we report rapid adaptation to repeated cycles of gratings drifting over the receptive field of neurons at the earliest site of postretinal processing, the lateral geniculate nucleus of the thalamus.
Seismic Sedimentologic Study on Sequence-Sediment Evolution in Fault Basin Regions
Authors: Tianyun Wang , Jingchun Tian , Wei Liu , Xiaofeng Han , Yuan Li , Tao Li , Xiaoping Sun
Published: May 2023

With potential hydrocarbon source rocks, the Mesozoic Lower Cretaceous interval in the Aitegle Sag of the Yingen-Ejinaqi Basin in China has a bright petroleum exploration prospect. Considering the scarcity of wells in Aitegle Sag, we have systematically carried out the research on the sequence structure and sedimentary system evolution of the Lower Cretaceous based on seismic, core, and logging data, guided by the Vail classic sequence stratigraphy, and innovatively introduced the self-organizing mapping neural network (SOM) learning algorithm to assist in seismic geological analysis. The results are as follows: (1) after RMSAmp, LyapIndex, FrctDim, and InfoEntr clustering, five zones are divided, which are corresponding to five seismic facies (showing medium-strong amplitude and parallel-subparallel reflection; medium-strong amplitude and wedge-shaped divergent reflection; medium-strong amplitude and continuous-relatively continuous, parallel-subparallel reflection; strong amplitude and continuous sheet-like or blank reflection; and weak amplitude and mound-shaped chaotic reflection, respectively), and interpreted as five subfacies including delta plain front, prodelta-shallow lake, semideep lake, deep lake, and sublacustrine fan. (2) The Lower Cretaceous formation includes one second-order sequence, three third-order sequences (SQ2–SQ4), and six system tracts. In the SQ2–SQ4 circle, the delta system formed by sediments from southeast varies remarkably in the progradational zones in different system tracts, and tectonic movements and sediment supply control the sequence stratigraphy in the study area as major factors. (3) It is feasible to apply SOM learning algorithm to seismic attribute clustering analysis. This method effectively realizes the combination of geophysical methods based on big data analysis and geological problem analysis, which not only strengthens the use of seismic data but also ensures the effectiveness and reliability of clustering results. These findings offer basic data and scientific supports for the exploration and development of unconventional reservoirs (e.g., shale and tight oil/gas reservoirs) in the Aitegle Sag and also provide new ideas for studying the sequence-sediment in the target zones in the fault basin regions with scarce wells.
Global Analysis in Nonobstructive Azoospermic Testis Identifies miRNAs Critical to Spermatogenesis
Authors: Piryaei Fahimeh , Mozdarani Hossein , Sadighi Gilani Mohammad Ali , Rajender Singh , Finelli Renata , Darestanifarahani Mahsa , Sarli Abdolazim , Mehta Poonam , Agarwal Ashok
Published: May 2023

Introduction. The etiology of male infertility characterized by non-obstructive azoospermia is largely unknown, especially at the molecular level. Identifying dysregulated microRNAs (miRNAs) in male infertility would be useful to achieve a more profound understanding of its pathogenesis. Methods. Small RNA sequencing was performed on the testicular tissues of 10 nonobstructive azoospermic patients with the Sertoli cell only syndrome (SCOS) and 8 obstructive azoospermic individuals with normal spermatogenesis. The expressions of two dysregulated miRNAs were validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, confirming the results obtained by sequencing analysis. Bioinformatic analysis was undertaken to identify the main pathways impaired in complete spermatogenic failure. Results. A total of 136 miRNAs were detected to be differentially expressed in the Sertoli cell only syndrome group in comparison with the obstructive azoospermia group. Bioinformatic analysis suggested that the altered miRNAs were substantially involved in pathways related to spermatogenesis. Conclusions. Our study investigates the entire profile of miRNAs with emphasis on the crucial role of miRNAs in idiopathic Sertoli cell only syndrome, suggesting potential targets for employing molecular therapeutic strategies in the treatment of spermatogenic failure.
Vascularization of a Bone Organoid Using Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Authors: Li Aonan , Sasaki Jun-Ichi , Abe Gabriela L. , Katata Chihiro , Sakai Hirohiko , Imazato Satoshi
Published: May 2023

Bone organoids offer a novel path for the reconstruction and repair of bone defects. We previously fabricated scaffold-free bone organoids using cell constructs comprising only bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). However, the cells in the millimetre-scale constructs were likely to undergo necrosis because of difficult oxygen diffusion and nutrient delivery. Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) are capable of differentiating into vascular endothelial lineages and have great vasculogenic potential under endothelial induction. Therefore, we hypothesized that DPSCs can serve as a vascular source to improve the survival of the BMSCs within the bone organoid. In this study, the DPSCs had greater sprouting ability, and the proangiogenic marker expressions were significantly greater than those of BMSCs. DPSCs were incorporated into the BMSC constructs at various ratios (5%–20%), and their internal structures and vasculogenic and osteogenic characteristics were investigated after endothelial differentiation. As a result, the DPSCs are differentiated into the CD31-positive endothelial lineage in the cell constructs. The incorporation of DPSCs significantly suppressed cell necrosis and improved the viability of the cell constructs. In addition, lumen-like structures were visualized by fluorescently labelled nanoparticles in the DPSC-incorporated cell constructs. The vascularized BMSC constructs were successfully fabricated using the vasculogenic ability of the DPSCs. Next, osteogenic induction was initiated in the vascularized BMSC/DPSC constructs. Compared with only BMSCs, constructs with DPSCs had increased mineralized deposition and a hollow structure. Overall, this study demonstrated that vascularized scaffold-free bone organoids were successfully fabricated by incorporating DPSCs into BMSC constructs, and the biomimetic biomaterial is promising for bone regenerative medicine and drug development.