bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spray Characterization of a Preheated Bio-Oil Surrogate at Elevated Pressures
Authors: Broumand Mohsen , Thomson Murray J. , Yun Sean , Hong Zekai
Published: August 2022

Atomization plays an important role in the gasification or combustion of bio-oils, where the atomizer parameters need to be properly controlled to efficiently atomize a highly viscous liquid at elevated pressures with imparting the least amount of kinetic energy to the discharged droplets because of evaporation and chemical reaction constraints. With a focus on bio-oil deployments in microgas turbines (MGTs), an aqueous surrogate of a preheated bio-oil, injected from an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) twin-fluid atomizer, is used in the present study for spray size and velocity measurements at elevated pressures. The experiments were conducted in High Pressure Spray Facility of the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) using various optical diagnostics including laser sheet imaging (LSI), phase Doppler anemometry (PDA), and laser diffraction (LD). A scaling strategy was adopted to conserve the ranges of gas-to-liquid momentum flux ratio, M, at different working pressures, P. Over the range of conditions studied, it is found out that the cone angle of sprays is insensitive to P, but they decrease with increasing M. For a constant value of M, droplet mean diameters increase and their corresponding velocities decrease with increasing P, attributed to the effect of gas-to-liquid density ratio on the primary breakup of a liquid jet in a coaxial gas stream. Therefore, to estimate the Sauter mean diameter of spray droplets, D32, a correlation previously reported in the literature is modified by including the effect of system air density at elevated pressures, and a novel correlation is proposed based on four dimensionless groups, namely, gas Weber number and gas-to-liquid momentum flux ratio, density ratio, and viscosity ratio. The detailed results obtained in the present study could be used to define the optimal parameters required for twin-fluid atomization of high viscosity liquids with various atomization gases under realistic operating conditions and to enhance the capabilities of their numerical simulations.
Symmetry Breaking in an Experimental Annular Combustor Model With Deterministic Electroacoustic Feedback and Stochastic Forcing
Authors: Humbert Sylvain C. , Orchini Alessandro , Paschereit Christian Oliver , Noiray Nicolas
Published: August 2022

In this study, we use an annular combustor experimental model with electroacoustic feedback to investigate systematically the effect of stochastic forcing and nonuniform flame response distribution on azimuthal thermoacoustic modes. We break the symmetry of a nominally degenerate mode of azimuthal order m by imposing a nonzero 2m Fourier component of the flame gain, b2m, and of the time-delay, ε2m. Various orientations between the gain and the time-delay staging patterns are considered. In addition, stochastic forcing is introduced. First, all experiments are performed without noise, as well as at the maximum noise intensity. We observe that the mode nature that dominates in the presence of intense noise may be far from the one observed in noise-free conditions. To better understand the effect of noise in the presence of asymmetries, we repeat some of the experiments at various noise intensities. Although our results confirm that for the axisymmetric configuration and some asymmetric configurations pure spinning modes are never reached, we also observe some radically different behaviors. For a noise-free experiment leading to a purely standing mode, the introduction of a sufficient amount of noise can lead to beating. We also observe that, for a mode that is nearly standing in the absence of noise, an increase in the noise intensity leads to the predominance of mixed modes with a clearly favored spinning direction. We explain our experimental results with the aid of low-order models.
High-Speed Inspection of Rails by Passive Ultrasonic Monitoring
Authors: Datta Diptojit , di Scalea Francesco Lanza
Published: August 2022

This paper presents a high-speed noncontact rail inspection technique that has the potential of detecting internal rail defects at regular (revenue) train speeds. The technique utilizes an array of capacitive air-coupled ultrasonic transducers in continuous recording mode to extract a reconstructed transfer function for a rail segment in a passive manner. The passive approach utilizes the ambient excitation of the rail induced by the wheels of the test car and eliminates the need for a controlled source. A normalized cross-correlation operator with modified Welch's periodogram technique is used to extract the transfer function in a manner that is independent of the uncontrolled excitation source (rolling wheels). Discontinuities in the rail (e.g., joints, welds, and defects) alter the reconstructed transfer function which is statistically tracked using an outlier analysis for detection robustness and sensitivity. Field tests were carried out with a prototype at the Transportation Technology Center Inc. (TTCI) in Pueblo, CO at testing speeds of up to 80 mph. The performance of the system in detecting rail discontinuities was assessed via receiver operating characteristic curves for a range of varying operational parameters such as excitation strength, baseline distribution length, testing speed, and multiple runs.
Real-Time Nondestructive Evaluation of Additive Manufacturing Using a Laser Vibrometer and Shock Tube
Authors: Liu Han , Laflamme Simon , Morgan Carter , Nelson Matthew , Bentil Sarah A.
Published: August 2022

Additive manufacturing (AM) parts retain a certain degree of individuality and could suffer from a combination of different defect types, and therefore the nondestructive evaluation on AM parts remains a challenging task. Engineering non-contact and nondestructive real-time inspection and in situ quality assurance of AM parts would be a net improvement compared to current quality control methods that are conducted post-production. Here, the authors propose to combine the use of a laser vibrometer with a compression-driven shock tube to assess the quality of AM parts through the evaluation of the vibration spectra of the part. An AM of a cylindrical part was selected for the study, along with different defect types and sizes. These defects include internal voids of different sizes at different locations, local changes in thickness (infill), and local changes in melting temperatures. A numerical model was created and validated using experimental data to conduct model-assisted probability of detection (MAPOD). Results were analyzed by evaluating correlation matrices between different models. Results showed that vibration spectra induced by a shock wave were sensitive to different types and sizes of defects under the studied geometry. The defect index yielded an approximately linear relationship with respect to defect void severity. MAPOD curve studies revealed a minimum detectable void defect of 0.039% of the AM part’s volume.
Highly Time Resolved, Combined Temperature, and Heat Flux Measurement Technique Based on ALTP Sensors
Authors: Huber Konstantin , Rödiger Tim
Published: August 2022

This study demonstrates a new methodology for the simultaneous direct measurement of temperature and heat flux within the same sensing element of heat flux sensors. The methodology is demonstrated for fast-response atomic layer thermopile (ALTP) sensors and makes use of a temperature–resistance correlation. The new methodology enables an inherent comparison and validation of the heat flux density signal of ALTPs. Good agreement is found based on experiments in the stagnation point of a subsonic hot air jet. The results of the mainly convective heat flux densities are compared against a standard coaxial thermocouple, indicating good agreement of mean values and signal characteristics. The simultaneous direct measurement of the temperature and heat flux allows the time-resolved calculation of local heat transfer coefficients and Nusselt numbers. The spectral analysis of the Nusselt number exhibits an excellent signal-to-noise ratio.
Development of resistance to a mixture of spiromesifen and abamectin and cross resistance in Tetranychus urticae
Authors: Alsay Safiye , Ay Recep
Published: August 2022

The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, a polyphagous pest, can feed on many plants. Farmers generally prefer chemical control to mitigate T. urticae, the arthropod species in which pesticide resistance is most common. In this study, resistance development to spiromesifen + abamectin mixture formulation, mixture formulation with active ingredients spiromesifen and abamectin, and cross resistance rates to spirodiclofen, milbemectin and spirodiclofen + abamectin were determined in the T. urticae strain selected for resistance to the spiromesifen + abamectin mixture. Spiromesifen+abamectin with LC50 and LC90 values for the susceptible T. urticae (GSS) strain were 0.53 mg a.i./l and 2.66 mg a.i./l distilled water, respectively. In the strain selected and named IR, the LC50 value increased to 640.50 mg a.i./l distilled water and the resistance ratio increased 1199-fold. The IR strain developed 1759 fold resistance to abamectin and 25 8874-fold resistance to spiromesifen, which is one of the active ingredients of the mixture. In cross-resistance studies, LC50 resistance ratios for spirodiclofen, milbemectin and spirodiclofen + abamectin were increased by 224-, 40-, and 1069-fold, respectively. The use of pesticide mixtures used to delay or prevent the development of resistance of pest species should be reconsidered.
Biopesticide and acaricides impair survival, predation, oviposition, and conversion of food into eggs of a phytoseid mite, Amblyseius largoensis (Acari: Phytoseiidae)
Authors: Barros Maria Edvânia Neves , Da Silva Francisco Wesller Batista , De Lima Debora Barbosa , Melo José Wagner Da Silva
Published: August 2022

Amblyseius largoensis (Muma) is a predatory mite that occurs naturally in plants infested with the pest mite, Raoiella indica Hirst, and has been reported as a potential predator for the control of R. indica. Since A. largoensis is not available commercially, coconut producers have used products registered for another coconut pest mite (Aceria guerreronis Keifer) against R. indica with the aim of minimizing economic losses caused by this pest. However, it is possible to explore the natural contribution of this predator using control strategies that allow its conservation. Thus, in the present study, the effects of pesticides registered for the coconut crop (azadirachtin, abamectin, chlorfenapyr, and fenpyroximate) on the survival, consumption, oviposition, and feed conversion efficiency of A. largoensis were evaluated to determine the compatibility between acaricides and the predatory mite. The results showed that the acaricides abamectin, fenpyroximate, and chlorfenapyr reduced the survival of A. largoensis females. Abamectin was the only acaricide that reduced predation, oviposition, and the feed conversion efficiency of A. largoensis. Azadirachtin did not affect any of the assessed parameters. These results suggest a potential compatibility A. largoensis with the pesticides azadirachtin, fenpyroximate, and chlorfenapyr.
Transgenerational effects of predation stress on prey survival, development, and offspring sex ratio: an experiment on Tyrophagus putrescentiae and predator Neoseiulus cucumeris
Authors: Wei Xiaoying , Shang Suqin , Zhang Zhi-Qiang
Published: August 2022

Predation stress can induce phenotypic plasticity in the life history traits of prey, especially early-life traits such as developmental time. Most previous transgenerational studies have focused on two generations and showed that the transgenerational effects induced by predation stress were negative on offspring fitness. Changes in sex ratio can also be an expression of transgenerational effects, influenced by many environmental and parental conditions. In this study, by using the prey–predator system of Tyrophagus putrescentiae and Neoseiulus cucumeris, we tested whether immature survival, developmental time, and sex ratio of offspring could be influenced by transgenerational exposure to predation stress. We tested the transgenerational effects of predation pressure on early life traits of the offspring over three generations. The results showed that parental effects interacting with grandparental effects increased the immature survival rates of F3 offspring, and that parental effects combined with offspring effects shortened the development duration of F2 offspring. However, neither grandparental exposure to predation stress nor parental experience had any influence on the sex ratio of offspring over three generations.
Cryogenic nanoscale etching of silicon nitride selectively to silicon by alternating SiF4/O2 and Ar plasmas
Authors: Antoun G. , Tillocher T. , Girard A. , Lefaucheux P. , Faguet J. , Kim H. , Zhang D. , Wang M. , Maekawa K. , Cardinaud C. , Dussart R.
Published: August 2022

This article first presents quasi-in situ XPS measurements on Si3N4 and a-Si samples after exposure to an SiF4/O2 plasma at different cryogenic temperatures. A different behavior is observed between the two materials at −65 °C, which has led to the development of a time-multiplexed process for nanoscale etching. This study clearly shows the possibility to switch from a deposition regime to an etching regime by decreasing the temperature. The threshold temperature between these regimes being different for both materials, it was possible to perform selective etching of Si3N4 over a-Si by wisely choosing the temperature.
On the myth of red hot and blue cold: A scientific history
Authors: Lincoln James
Published: August 2022

Most clichés contain some element of truth. Although the colors in our common speech are often referred to as being “warm” (reds and yellows) and “cold” (blues and whites), there is some scientific history behind these popular inaccuracies. In this article, I address the historical origin of these myths and explain with a physical model how they have been supported by legitimate—but ultimately incorrect—scientific inferences.
A More Efficient Approach to Demonstrate Hooke’s Law
Authors: Wei Yajun , Chong Zhiwei
Published: August 2022

Hooke’s law for springs, stating that the force needed to extend or compress a spring by some distance is proportional to that distance, is a topic covered by almost all introductory physics courses at both school and university levels. In this article we present a much more efficient and intuitive approach, compared to the traditional method, for demonstrating Hooke’s law. Figure 1 illustrates the design of our homemade setup. The apparatus consists of a base wooden frame, a hanging bar with a few equally spaced grooves (here we have six) at the top of the wooden frame, a transparent acrylic plate that is embedded into the wooden frame, two magnetic strips, and a thin, straight iron stick.
Pedagogy Changes Can Improve Concept Application
Authors: Staveland Owen , Schwartz Peter
Published: August 2022

We sought to improve concept application in introductory mechanics by emphasizing causal statements (such as “forces change momentum”) instead of laws (such as Δp=FΔt). Using student performance on a well-documented question, this intervention showed modest improvements. However, students in classes using recently introduced “parallel pedagogy” supported by learning assistants did significantly better than conventional pedagogy classes without learning assistants. Parallel pedagogy simultaneously introduces the four concepts (momentum, energy, dynamics, kinematics) and builds complexity in parallel while focusing on concepts, dialogue, and picture drawing. Our results also further confirm the discrepancy between student performance on multiple-choice questions and ability to explain reasoning on those same questions.
All About Polytropic Processes
Authors: Knight Randall
Published: August 2022

Of all the conceivable ideal-gas processes, almost all introductory physics textbooks as well as more advanced texts on thermodynamics emphasize only four: isochoric, isobaric, isothermal, and adiabatic (isentropic). These are processes in which a state variable—volume, pressure, temperature, or entropy— remains constant. It turns out that these four processes are examples of a more general ideal-gas process, called a polytropic process, in which the specific heat remains constant. Polytropic processes are frequently discussed in engineering thermodynamics but rarely in physics. The goal of this paper is to bring polytropic processes to the attention of physics instructors. These processes have interesting properties (such as, in some cases, negative specific heat), they are easily accessible at the introductory physics level, and they expand the range of examples and problems that can be explored in thermodynamics.
Jet instability of suspensions of different shaped particles exhibiting discontinuous shear thickening
Authors: Meloussi M. , Schaub S. , Ciffreo A. , Aguib S. , Kuzhir P.
Published: August 2022

This work is devoted to the detailed study of jet instability occurring in concentrated aqueous mixtures of calcium carbonate (CC) isotropic-shaped particles and rigid polyamide (PA) fibers. These mixtures exhibit very sharp discontinuous shear thickening (DST). The jets were subjected to a free fall under gravitational stretching at a constant flow rate. In the absence of PA fibers, we observed relatively strong lateral oscillations occurring for jet lengths L≳6cm and accompanied by small periodic undulations of the jet diameter. Two-dimensional Direct Fourier Transform analysis reveals approximately linear dispersion relations for propagation of lateral oscillations and diameter undulations with similar wave speeds ∼1m/s. This instability is ascribed to complex rheological behavior in an extensional flow above the DST transition. Theoretical modeling reveals abrupt jumps of the tensile stress along the jet likely leading to fluctuation of longitudinal and transverse velocity fields within the jet perceived through jet diameter and centerline undulations. The addition of PA fibers to CC suspension damps lateral oscillations but favors ruptures along the jet. This is tentatively explained by the interplay between growing lower and decreasing upper DST threshold stresses with increasing fiber volume fraction φf along with the thinning of the jet diameter down to the size of fiber flocs. Quantitatively, the stabilizing effect of PA fibers is manifested through an abrupt decrease in the lateral drift amplitude at φf≳0.75vol%.
Isokinetic Leg-Press Power–Force–Velocity Profiles Are Reliable in Male and Female Elite Athletes but Not Interchangeable With Vertical Jump Profiles
Authors: Fessl Isabella , Dirnberger Johannes , Kröll Josef , Wiesinger Hans-Peter
Published: August 2022

Purpose: To evaluate the test–retest reliability of isokinetic leg-press power–force–velocity profile (P–F–v) parameters in male and female elite athletes. In addition, we determined the concurrent validity of leg-press against squat-jump (SJ) P–F–v parameters in task-experienced athletes. Methods: For test–retest reliability, 22 female and 23 male elite athletes (22.3 [4.1] y) with different sporting backgrounds conducted 3 isokinetic leg-press test sessions over 3 consecutive weeks. The testing consisted of bilateral leg extensions at isokinetic velocities of 0.1, 0.3, 0.7, and 1.2 m·s−1. For concurrent validity, 13 ski jumpers (20.3 [3.3] y) were recruited to perform the isokinetic leg-press and SJ P–F–v profile tests using 5 predefined loading conditions of 0%, +20%, +40%, +60%, and +80% of body mass. Results: Relative and absolute reliability were acceptable for female (intraclass correlation coefficient ≥.87 and coefficient of variation ≤6.5%) and male (intraclass correlation coefficient ≥.89 and coefficient of variation ≤5.7%) elite athletes. In contrast, concurrent validity was insufficient, with correlations ranging from −.26 to .69 between isokinetic and SJ P–F–v parameters. Conclusion: Irrespective of sex, isokinetic leg-press P–F–v profiles provide reliable parameters. However, leg-press P–F–v profiles do not serve as a valid substitute for SJ P–F–v profiles. P–F–v parameter magnitudes are likely dependent on the constraints of the tested movement and testing device.
Geological processes mediate a microbial dispersal loop in the deep biosphere
Authors: Gittins Daniel A. , Desiage Pierre-Arnaud , Morrison Natasha , Rattray Jayne E. , Bhatnagar Srijak , Chakraborty Anirban , Zorz Jackie , Li Carmen , Horanszky Oliver , Cramm Margaret A. , Bisiach Francesco , Bennett Robbie , Webb Jamie , MacDonald Adam , Fowler Martin , Campbell D. Calvin , Hubert Casey R. J.
Published: August 2022

The deep biosphere is the largest microbial habitat on Earth and features abundant bacterial endospores. Whereas dormancy and survival at theoretical energy minima are hallmarks of microbial physiology in the subsurface, ecological processes such as dispersal and selection in the deep biosphere remain poorly understood. We investigated the biogeography of dispersing bacteria in the deep sea where upward hydrocarbon seepage was confirmed by acoustic imagery and geochemistry. Thermophilic endospores in the permanently cold seabed correlated with underlying seep conduits reveal geofluid-facilitated cell migration pathways originating in deep petroleum-bearing sediments. Endospore genomes highlight adaptations to life in anoxic petroleum systems and bear close resemblance to oil reservoir microbiomes globally. Upon transport out of the subsurface, viable thermophilic endospores reenter the geosphere by sediment burial, enabling germination and environmental selection at depth where new petroleum systems establish. This microbial dispersal loop circulates living biomass in and out of the deep biosphere.
RORγt expression in mature T
H
17 cells safeguards their lineage specification by inhibiting conversion to T
H
2 cells
Authors: Chi Xinxin , Jin Wei , Zhao Xiaohong , Xie Tian , Shao Jing , Bai Xue , Jiang Yu , Wang Xiaohu , Dong Chen
Published: August 2022

RORγt is the lineage-specific transcription factor for T helper 17 (T
H
17) cells and an attractive drug target for treating T
H
17-associated diseases. Although the critical role of RORγt in early T
H
17 cell differentiation has been well recognized, its function in mature T
H
17 cell maintenance remains largely unknown. Here, we show that genetic deletion of
Rorc
in mature T
H
17 cells inhibited their pathogenic functions. Mechanistically, loss of RORγt led to a closed chromatin configuration at key T
H
17-specific gene loci, particularly at the “super-enhancer” regions. Unexpectedly, RORγt directly bound and inhibited
Il4
transcription, whereas pharmaceutically or genetically targeting RORγt caused spontaneous conversion of T
H
17 cells to T
H
2-like cells in vitro and in vivo. Our results thus reveal dual crucial functions of RORγt in effector T
H
17 cells in maintaining T
H
17 cell program and constraining T
H
2 cell conversion, offering previously unidenified considerations in therapeutic targeting of RORγt.
PRC2-mediated repression is essential to maintain identity and function of differentiated dopaminergic and serotonergic neurons
Authors: Toskas Konstantinos , Yaghmaeian-Salmani Behzad , Skiteva Olga , Paslawski Wojciech , Gillberg Linda , Skara Vasiliki , Antoniou Irene , Södersten Erik , Svenningsson Per , Chergui Karima , Ringnér Markus , Perlmann Thomas , Holmberg Johan
Published: August 2022

How neurons can maintain cellular identity over an entire life span remains largely unknown. Here, we show that maintenance of identity in differentiated dopaminergic and serotonergic neurons is critically reliant on the Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2). Deletion of the obligate PRC2 component,
Eed
, in these neurons resulted in global loss of H3K27me3, followed by a gradual activation of genes harboring both H3K27me3 and H3K9me3 modifications. Notably, H3K9me3 was lost at these PRC2 targets before gene activation. Neuronal survival was not compromised; instead, there was a reduction in subtype-specific gene expression and a progressive impairment of dopaminergic and serotonergic neuronal function, leading to behavioral deficits characteristic of Parkinson’s disease and anxiety. Single-cell analysis revealed subtype-specific vulnerability to loss of PRC2 repression in dopamine neurons of the substantia nigra. Our study reveals that a PRC2-dependent nonpermissive chromatin state is essential to maintain the subtype identity and function of dopaminergic and serotonergic neurons.
Supplemental Material: Mobilization of tin during continental subduction-accretion processes
Authors: Romer Rolf L. , al. et
Published: August 2022

Analytical methods and U-Pb cassiterite data. 
Paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome: temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS) — A mimic of intra-abdominal malignancy
Authors: Nasher Omar , Friend Amand , Lakshminarayanan Bhanumathi , Turner Kerry , Wood Mark , Deri Antigoni , Ingham Danielle
Published: August 2022

We report the case of a school-aged boy who presented with clinical features suggesting acute appendicitis. However, further imaging which included CT, demonstrated an inflammatory mass involving the transverse colon raising the suspicion of lymphoma. He then developed intestinal obstruction, and in view of the rapid progression of the disease, he was thought to have non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He underwent an open excisional biopsy, which revealed a necroinflammatory process and no suggestion of lymphoma or an alternative malignancy or specific diagnosis. His steroid treatment was stopped, and he made a good recovery postoperatively. Positive COVID-19 antibodies, positive response to steroids, results and clinical features were consistent with paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome (PIMS-TS), with extensive investigation not offering an alternative diagnosis.

While PIMS-TS is a relatively new entity, we believe that this case highlights the importance of it being considered a differential diagnosis of a child presenting with an inflammatory mass.
Impending myocardial ischaemia during thyroid storm diagnosed through Wellens’ syndrome
Authors: Patra Shinjan , Kaliyappan Anupriya , Kaushik Atul , Roy Ayan
Published: August 2022

We present a case of thyroid storm precipitated by discontinuation of antithyroid drugs. The patient developed a concurrent acute coronary event during the resolution period of the thyroid storm. After 48 hours of prudent management of thyroid storm, the patient’s sensorium and haemodynamics were stabilised but he had persistent mild chest discomfort and developed new-onset jaw pain. On admission, ECG showed sinus tachycardia. In consideration of persistent mild chest discomfort and new-onset jaw pain, serial ECGs were performed which revealed biphasic T waves in V2–V3 suggestive of Wellens’ syndrome type A. This indicated a critical stenosis of the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery and impending myocardial ischaemia. The patient underwent urgent coronary catheterisation, which revealed 80% stenosis of proximal LAD and was subsequently revascularised resolving his symptoms. This case underscores the significance of serial ECG monitoring even after the acute phase of thyroid crisis, which helped in timely identification of Wellens’ syndrome.
Lichenoid dermatitis preceding Stevens-Johnson syndrome in a patient treated with nivolumab
Authors: Potts Jolee , Lee Rachel Raven , Hilliard Carolyn A
Published: August 2022

Nivolumab is an immune checkpoint inhibitor acting on programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) that has been used to treat a growing number of malignancies. Cutaneous side effects are common with nivolumab treatment, though they are typically self-limited. Here we present a case of persistent lichenoid dermatitis in a patient treated with nivolumab for renal cell cancer. The patient then developed Stevens-Johnson syndrome 9 months after initiation of nivolumab, with no other identifiable offending medication in the interim. Although an unusual presentation, a growing number of cases have reported delayed Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermolytic necrosis-like reactions to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Awareness of this phenomenon is imperative for prompt recognition and treatment of potentially life-threatening cutaneous side effects.
Cost-utility of cytisine for smoking cessation over and above behavioural support in people with newly diagnosed pulmonary tuberculosis: an economic evaluation of a multicentre randomised controlled trial
Authors: Li Jinshuo , Parrott Steve , Keding Ada , Dogar Omara , Gabe Rhian , Marshall Anna-Marie , Huque Rumana , Barua Deepa , Fatima Razia , Khan Amina , Zahid Raana , Mansoor Sonia , Kotz Daniel , Boeckmann Melanie , Elsey Helen , Kralikova Eva , Readshaw Anne , Sheikh Aziz , Siddiqi Kamran
Published: August 2022

Objectives

To assess the cost-effectiveness of cytisine over and above brief behavioural support (BS) for smoking cessation among patients who are newly diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) in low-income and middle-income countries.

Design

An incremental cost-utility analysis was undertaken alongside a 12-month, double-blind, two-arm, individually randomised controlled trial from a public/voluntary healthcare sector perspective with the primary endpoint at 6 months post randomisation.

Setting

Seventeen subdistrict hospitals in Bangladesh and 15 secondary care hospitals in Pakistan.

Participants

Adults (aged ≥18 years in Bangladesh and ≥15 years in Pakistan) with pulmonary TB diagnosed within the last 4 weeks who smoked tobacco daily (n=2472).

Interventions

Two brief BS sessions with a trained TB health worker were offered to all participants. Participants in the intervention arm (n=1239) were given cytisine (25-day course) while those in the control arm (n=1233) were given placebo. No significant difference was found between arms in 6-month abstinence.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Costs of cytisine and BS sessions were estimated based on research team records. TB treatment costs were estimated based on TB registry records. Additional smoking cessation and healthcare costs and EQ-5D-5L data were collected at baseline, 6-month and 12-month follow-ups. Costs were presented in purchasing power parity (PPP) adjusted US dollars (US$). Quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) were derived from the EQ-5D-5L. Incremental total costs and incremental QALYs were estimated using regressions adjusting for respective baseline values and other baseline covariates. Uncertainty was assessed using bootstrapping.

Results

Mean total costs were PPP US$57.74 (95% CI 49.40 to 83.36) higher in the cytisine arm than in the placebo arm while the mean QALYs were −0.001 (95% CI −0.004 to 0.002) lower over 6 months. The cytisine arm was dominated by the placebo arm.

Conclusions

CytisineplusBS for smoking cessation among patients with TB was not cost-effective compared with placeboplusBS.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN43811467.
Prevalence and associated factors of physical inactivity among middle-aged and older adults in India: results of a national cross-sectional community survey
Authors: Pengpid Supa , Peltzer Karl
Published: August 2022

Objective

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of physical inactivity in middle-aged and older adults in India.

Design

Population-based cross-sectional study.

Setting

Nationally representative sample of general community-dwelling middle-aged and older adult population in India.

Participants

The sample included 72 262 adults (45 years and older, mean age 58.8 years, SD=11.8), from the longitudinal ageing study in India wave 1 in 2017–2018.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Self-reported physical activity, along with physical measurements, health status and health behaviour, and sociodemographic covariates. Multivariable logistic regression calculated OR with 95% CI for physical inactivity.

Results

Overall, 36.7% were physically inactive, 42.6% among men, and 32.4% among women (p<0.001). In the adjusted logistic regression analysis, among both men and women, older age (70 years and older), being Sikh, impaired vision and depressive symptoms were positively and cognitive functioning, current tobacco use and social participation were negatively associated with physical inactivity. In addition, among men, higher socioeconomic status, urban residence, functional disability and heart disease or stroke were positively associated with physical inactivity, and among women being married and higher education were negatively, and insomnia symptoms and poor or fair self-rated health status were positively associated with physical inactivity.

Conclusions

Almost 4 in 10 middle-aged and older adults in India had inadequate physical activity. Overall and gender specific risk factors for physical inactivity were identified. Interventions may operate at multiple levels and consider gender-related physical inactivity patterns.
Programme of triple-I mediator education (TIME) to improve medical disputes in clinical settings in Taiwan: a Delphi study
Authors: Shiao Yi-Chih , Shen Ruo-Nan , Chen Wen-Wen , Liu Yueh-Ping , Shih Chung-Liang , Wang Chih-Chia
Published: August 2022

Objectives

To establish a training programme to cultivate trainee mediation skills through time investment, skill incorporation and formation of in-house mediation services.

Design

A four-round consensus conference was conducted by a number of seasoned experts selected in the manner of purposive sampling to determine core competences and relevant curricula through the modified Delphi process.

Setting

Responses collected from enrolled experts through four rounds of the Delphi process from 11 November 2018 to 17 May 2019.

Participants

Onboard seasoned mediators with different specialties.

Outcome measures

Items with a median rating of 4 or more on a Likert scale of 1–7 points and 70% or more in agreement were identified as core competence and curricula.

Results

Eleven enrolled experts reached the consensus about the training syllabus based on the 4-round agreement with four pillars of core competence, including ‘knowledge base of law’, ‘internalisation of the denotative and connotative meanings of care’, ‘effective, smooth and timely communication’ and ‘conflict resolution’. To grasp the dynamics and diversity of medical disputes on target, it is necessary to have sufficient knowledge and skills. We arrange our course in the order of teaching materials with pure didactics in the former two and with mixed contents comprising lectures and field exercises in the rest two.

Conclusions

The sample developed a syllabus to train apprentices to take intermediate responses to medical disputes through the skills of conflict resolution and establishment of effective communication to improve the relationship between patients/relatives and medical staff, as a result of eventually reducing the conversion rate from dispute into litigation or alternative pathway. Policy-makers in healthcare and top management in healthcare institutions can use this syllabus to guide their future education and training programme.
Examining the criterion validity of two scalable, information technology-based systems designed to measure the quantity and quality of movement behaviours of children from Hong Kong primary schools: a cross-sectional validation study
Authors: Ha Amy S , Cheng James , Chan Cecilia H S , Jiang Guanxian , Yang Yijian , Ng Johan Y Y
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Research has shown that having adequate quantity and quality of physical activity can contribute to the health and well-being of children. Nonetheless, existing tools to measure these constructs in children have limitations in terms of their objectivity and scalability. In this study, we provide criterion validity evidence of two systems built on commercially available sensors (ie, gyroscopes and infrared cameras), designed to measure children’s moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and fundamental movement skill proficiencies.

Design

Cross-sectional.

Setting

Primary schools in Hong Kong.

Participants

Data from 30 (age=8.55±1.25 years) and 1174 (age=9.15±1.63 years) children were included for the validation of physical activity and fundamental movement skills measures, respectively. Children’s outcomes were simultaneously measured using the developed systems and existing, well-established measures (accelerometers and expert ratings).

Results

We found a strong correlation between physical activity outcomes measured using our developed system and accelerometers (Pearson r=0.795). Motor skill proficiency scored using our real-time rating system had strong agreement with expert ratings (percentage agreement=84%–94%, kappa=0.661 to 0.859).

Discussion

Results of the current study supported the application of the respective systems in physical education and large-scale research studies. Collection of such data at mass levels could help researchers depict the complex relation between children’s quantity and quality of physical activity.
Association of occupations with decreased semen quality in eastern China: a cross-sectional study of 12 301 semen donors
Authors: Tang Feng , Jiang Zhaoqiang , Jin Mingying , Sheng Huiqiang , Feng Lingfang , Chen Junfei , Li Yongxin , Huang Jing , Xu Ling , Lou Jianlin
Published: August 2022

Objectives

This study aims to examine the association between occupational factors and semen quality in semen donors in eastern China.

Methods

We recruited 12 301 semen donors from 2006 to 2020 as the studying population. A self-designed questionnaire was applied for collecting lifestyle and work style information. Semen samples were analysed according to WHO guidelines. A crude and adjusted linear regression model was used to analyse the association between occupational factors and semen quality.

Results

College students accounted for 36.2% of all semen donors. The majority (81.3%) of semen donors were between 18 year and 30 years. Soldiers or the police had the highest semen volume (the median value=3.8 mL), however, they had the lowest sperm concentration (53.6×106/ml) and sperm motility (45.5%). Workers in finance or insurance had an elevated risk of low semen volume, sperm concentration and total sperm count (OR=1.43, 1.57 and 1.98, respectively). Unemployed men had a high risk of low sperm concentration and low total sperm count (OR=1.84 and 1.58, respectively). Working in the information technology industry had a deleterious effect on the progressive motility of sperm (OR=1.27, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.57).

Conclusion

Our study indicated that sedentary work style and intensive sports in certain professions might be associated with decreased semen quality. We reported evidence of becoming unemployed on the damage to semen quality. Hence, we advocate a healthy work style to improve semen quality in eastern China.
Adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes associated withMycoplasma hominis, Ureaplasma urealyticumandUreaplasma parvum: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jonduo Marinjho Emely , Vallely Lisa Michelle , Wand Handan , Sweeney Emma Louise , Egli-Gany Dianne , Kaldor John , Vallely Andrew John , Low Nicola
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Mycoplasma hominis, Ureaplasma urealyticumandUreaplasma parvum(genital mycoplasmas) commonly colonise the urogenital tract in pregnant women. This systematic review aims to investigate their role in adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes, alone or in combination with bacterial vaginosis (BV).

Methods

We searched Embase, Medline and CINAHL databases from January 1971 to February 2021. Eligible studies tested for any of the three genital mycoplasmas during pregnancy and reported on the primary outcome, preterm birth (PTB) and/or secondary outcomes low birth weight (LBW), premature rupture of membranes (PROM), spontaneous abortion (SA) and/or perinatal or neonatal death (PND).

Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts, read potentially eligible full texts and extracted data. Two reviewers independently assessed risks of bias using published checklists. Random effects meta-analysis was used to estimate summary ORs (with 95% CIs and prediction intervals). Multivariable and stratified analyses were synthesised descriptively.

Results

Of 53/1194 included studies, 36 were from high-income countries. In meta-analysis of unadjusted ORs,M. hominiswas associated with PTB (OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.49 to 2.34), PROM, LBW and PND but not SA.U. urealyticumwas associated with PTB (OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.14 to 1.39), PROM, and SA.U. parvumwas associated with PTB (1.79, 95% CI 1.28 to 2.52) and PROM. Seven of 53 studies reported any multivariable analysis. In two studies, analyses stratified by BV status showed thatM. hominisandU. parvumwere more strongly associated with PTB in the presence than in the absence of BV. The most frequent source of bias was a failure to control for confounding.

Conclusions

The currently available literature does not allow conclusions about the role of mycoplasmas in adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes, alone or with coexisting BV. Future studies that consider genital mycoplasmas in the context of the vaginal microbiome are needed.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42016050962.
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on screening and diagnosis of patients with prostate cancer: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Mostafavi Zadeh Seyed Mostafa , Tajik Fatemeh , Moradi Yousef , Kiani Jafar , Ghods Roya , Madjd Zahra
Published: August 2022

Introduction

With the exponential progress of patients with COVID-19, unexpected restrictions were directed to limit SARS-CoV-2 dissemination and imposed health-system an entire reformation to diminish transmission risk. These changes likely have caused the full range of cancer screenings and diagnosis gaps. Regardless of the recommendations, prostate cancer (PCa) screening/diagnosis programmes were momentarily postponed. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing has been an inexpensive, low-invasive and relatively precise means of detection for PCa screening that would improve the uncovering of any type of PCa. Unfortunately, a decrease in PSA screening would significantly decrease PCa detection, with non-negligible growth in PCa-specific death. This review is designed to improve our understanding of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the screening and diagnosis of patients with PCa.

Methods and analysis

This systematic review will be reported in accordant with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidance. A comprehensive search has been executed through five main electronic databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase and ProQuest until 1 March 2022. Besides, grey literature, preprint studies and references of included studies will be searched. The main keywords have been used to perform the search strategy: COVID-19, prostatic neoplasms. All the relevant studies that met the inclusion criteria will be screened, selected and then extracted data by two independent authors. The quality assessment of the included studies will be performed by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. In case of any disagreement between the two authors in selecting, extracting data and assessing the quality of included studies, it will be resolved via consensus and checked by the third author.

Ethics and dissemination

As this study will be a systematic review without human participants’ involvement, there will be no requirement for ethics approval. Findings will be presented at conferences and in a peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021291656.
Risk of stroke in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optic spectrum disorder: a Nationwide cohort study in South Korea
Authors: Cho Eun Bin , Yeo Yohwan , Jung Jin Hyung , Jeong Su-Min , Han Kyung-do , Shin Dong Wook , Min Ju-Hong
Published: August 2022

Background

People with multiple sclerosis (MS) are more likely to develop stroke than those without. However, little is known about the association between neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and the risk of stroke. We aimed to estimate the risk of stroke in patients with MS and NMOSD in South Korea.

Methods

Data from the Korean National Health Insurance between January 2010 and December 2017 were analysed. A total of 1541/1687 adult patients with MS/NMOSD, who were free of stroke were included. Matched controls were selected based on age, sex and the presence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidaemia.

Results

The risk of developing stroke was 2.78 times higher (adjusted HR (aHR), 95% CI 1.91 to 4.05) in patients with MS compared with controls matched by age, sex, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidaemia. The risk of stroke in NMOSD was also higher than that in matched controls (aHR=1.69, 95% CI 1.10 to 2.61) and not statistically different from that of MS (p=0.216). The patients with MS had a higher risk for either of ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke (HR=2.63 and 2.93, respectively), whereas those with NMOSD had a higher risk for ischaemic stroke (HR=1.60) with marginal statistical significance.

Conclusions

The risk of stroke is increased in patients with MS and NMOSD and seemed comparable between the two conditions. This is the first study that estimates the risk of stroke in patients with MS and NMOSD within the same population.
Crosstalk among apoptosis, inflammation, and autophagy in relation to melatonin protective effect against contrast-induced nephropathy in rats
Authors: Al-Shawadfy Marwa Gamal , Kamel Gellan Alaa Mohamed , Abd-Allah Adel R.A.
Published: August 2022

Contrast medium (CM) is a chemical substance that is used for imaging anatomical boundaries and to explore normal and abnormal physiological findings; the use of CM was associated with kidney injury and acute renal failure. Melatonin (M) possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects in addition to autophagy modulation. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of M against contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) and its impact on the crosstalk between inflammasome, apoptosis, and autophagy in CIN. Male albino rats received M (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneally) for 3 days. One hour after the last administration, rats were subjected to CIN induction (10 mg/kg indomethacin, double doses of l-NAME 10 mg/kg, i.v., and meglumine diatrizoate 60% 6 mL/kg, i.v.). CIN-induced kidney damage was evidenced through elevated kidney function biomarkers and induced renal histopathological changes. Pretreatment with M caused a significant decrease in nephrotoxicity biomarkers and histopathological alterations. Moreover, CIN-induced oxidative stress, NLRP3 inflammasome, and apoptosis were attenuated by M. Furthermore, M modulates autophagy in CIN rats. M inhibits CIN-induced NLRP3-inflammasome activation and apoptosis as well as enhances autophagy.