bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extracellular vesicles recovered from plasma of severe dengue patients induce CD4+ T cell suppression through PD-L1/PD-1 interaction
Authors: Kumari Sharda , Bandyopadhyay Bhaswati , Singh Anamika , Aggarwal Suruchi , Yadav Amit Kumar , Vikram Naval Kishore , Guchhait Prasenjit , Banerjee Arup
Published: November 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small membrane vesicles secreted into biological fluids, which play crucial roles in influencing the cellular function in different pathological processes. However, there is less clarity on how plasma EVs influence proliferation activation and functions of immune cells during dengue virus (DV) infection. In this study, we aimed to characterize circulating EVs from different categories of dengue patients and examined the consequence of naïve CD4+ T cells to EVs isolated from the plasma of mild or severe dengue patients. We observed that severe dengue infection was associated with an increased release of CD41a+ platelet extracellular vesicles compared with that from patients with mild disease or healthy donors. These EVs carried an increased level of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines along with immunoregulatory proteins on the surface that caused CD4+ T cell suppression. Treatment of purified naïve CD4+ T cells with EVs derived from severe dengue plasma drove CD4+ proliferation toward specific subtypes and modulated surface receptor CXCR3 and CCR6 expression. Subsequent studies indicated a notable rise in programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression within CD41a+ severe DV (SDV) EVs. Additionally, CD4+ T cells showed an elevated increase in programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) after incubating with SDV-EVs. We also demonstrated that blocking PD-L1 on SDV-EVs or PD-1 on late-activating CD4
+
T cells partially reversed the SDV-EV-induced suppression of CD4+ T cell proliferation. Overall, our study highlights the immunosuppressive property of EVs derived from plasma of severe dengue patients, which might contribute to immune pathogenesis by shaping the immune response.

IMPORTANCE

Severe dengue manifestations caused by the dengue virus are a global health problem. Studies suggest that severe dengue disease depends on uncontrolled immune cell activation, and excessive inflammation adds to the pathogenesis of severe dengue disease. Therefore, it is important to understand the process that triggers the uncontrolled activation of the immune cells. The change in immune response in mild to severe dengue may be due to direct virus-to-cell interaction or it could be a contact-independent process through the extracellular vesicles (EVs) released from infected cells. The importance of circulating EVs in the context of dengue virus infection and pathogenesis remains unexplored. Therefore, understanding the possible biological function of circulating EVs may help to delineate the role of EVs in the progression of disease. Our present study highlights that EVs from plasma of severe dengue patients can have immunosuppressive properties on CD4+ T cells which may contribute to T cell suppression and may contribute to dengue disease progression.
Draft genome sequences for
Pantoea ananatis
ATCC 35400 and
Pantoea stewartii
subspecies
indologenes
ICMP 10132
Authors: Baltrus David A. , Shin Gi Yoon , Coutinho Teresa , Kvitko Brian H.
Published: November 2023

Here, we describe draft genome sequences for two bacterial isolates from the genus
Pantoea
.
Pantoea ananatis
ATCC 35400 was originally isolated from honeydew melon and was obtained from the American Type Culture Collection.
Pantoea stewartii
subspecies
indologenes
ICMP 10132 was originally isolated from sugarcane and classified as
Pantoea ananatis
, but average nucleotide identity and discriminatory PCR support species reclassification.
Complete genome sequence of
Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus
strain VHProbi F20, isolated from a healthy adult
Authors: Guo Chaoqun , Cui Hongchang , Wang Qian , Duan Zhi
Published: November 2023

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus
strain VHProbi F20 is a strain isolated as part of a search for probiotics to prevent and help fight against respiratory tract infection caused by
Haemophilus influenzae
. Here, we investigate the whole-genome sequence of this strain. The whole genome contains a chromosome and a plasmid.
Pleistocene Colorado River terraces in the canyonlands region (Utah, USA) record unsteady, transient incision and growth of the Cataract Canyon knickzone by salt tectonics
Authors: Tanski Natalie M. , Pederson Joel L. , Rittenour Tammy M. , Hidy Alan J.
Published: November 2023

Colorado River terraces in the canyonlands region of southeastern Utah can be dated and analyzed to address the controls of incision and nature of the Colorado Plateau’s largest channel-steepness anomaly, Cataract Canyon. Field correlations supported by luminescence and cosmogenic-nuclide ages on strath terraces along Meander Canyon, upstream of Cataract Canyon, reveal a complex record of unsteady incision over the past ~340 k.y. at an average rate of ~0.4 mm/yr. Both an upstream progression of rapid incision and a unique sigmoidal long-profile pattern of terraces indicate incision in response to episodic baselevel fall. Also, terraces converge downstream with the anomalously low-gradient modern channel above Cataract Canyon. We interpret these results as indicating that growth of the Cataract Canyon knickzone is due to an erosion-salt tectonics feedback since at least the Mid Pleistocene, which has imparted unsteady, and currently elevated, local baselevel. More broadly, the canyonlands region is marked by rapid and unsteady incision that is complicated by local geologic controls even while being absent of any regional or mantle-driven uplift.
Supplemental Material: Chronostratigraphy of Miocene strata in the Berkeley Hills (California Coast Ranges, USA) and the arrival of the San Andreas transform boundary
Authors: Gerasimov Stacey H. , al. et
Published: November 2023

Table of U-Pb geochronology data (Table S1: LA-ICP-MS data), table of whole-rock geochemistry data (Table S2: XRF data), measured stratigraphic sections (Figs. S1–S4), an annotated field photo of the upper Orinda Formation samples (Fig. S5), and a total alkali–silica plot (Fig. S6). 
Prior exposure to antiretroviral therapy among adult patients presenting for HIV treatment initiation or reinitiation in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review
Authors: Benade Mariet , Maskew Mhairi , Juntunen Allison , Flynn David B , Rosen Sydney
Published: November 2023

Objectives

As countries have scaled up access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV, attrition rates of up to 30% annually have created a large pool of individuals who initiate treatment with prior ART experience. Little is known about the proportion of non-naïve reinitiators within the population presenting for treatment initiation.

Design

Systematic review of published articles and abstracts reporting proportions of non-naïve adult patients initiating ART in sub-Saharan Africa.

Data sources

PubMed, Embase Elsevier, Web of Science Core Collection, International AIDS Society conferences, Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections conferences.

Eligibility criteria

Clinical trials and observational studies; reporting on adults in sub-Saharan Africa who initiated lifelong ART; published in English between 1 January 2018 and 11 July 2023 and with data collected after January 2016. Initiator self-report, laboratory discernment of antiretroviral metabolites, and viral suppression at initiation or in the medical record were accepted as evidence of prior exposure.

Data extraction and synthesis

We captured study and sample characteristics, proportions with previous ART exposure and the indicator of previous exposure reported. We report results of each eligible study, estimate the risk of bias and identify gaps in the literature.

Results

Of 2740 articles, 11 articles describing 12 cohorts contained sufficient information for the review. Proportions of initiators with evidence of prior ART use ranged from 5% (self-report only) to 53% (presence of ART metabolites in hair or blood sample). The vast majority of screened studies did not report naïve/non-naïve status. Metrics used to determine and report non-naïve proportions were inconsistent and difficult to interpret.

Conclusions

The proportion of patients initiating HIV treatment who are truly ART naïve is not well documented. It is likely that 20%–50% of ART patients who present for ART are reinitiators. Standard reporting metrics and diligence in reporting are needed, as is research to understand the reluctance of patients to report prior ART exposure.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022324136.
Implementation of relative phase analysis to evaluate continuous interlimb coordination and stability in individuals with lower limb loss: Design and protocol for a retrospective analysis
Authors: Sidiropoulos Alexis N , Herlihy David V , Maikos Jason T
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The number of people with lower limb loss continues to grow, though most research to date has been non-committal and lacks the appropriate clinical guidance required for proper prosthetic prescription. Previous literature using traditional spatiotemporal and biomechanical measures has not accurately identified differences in gait patterns when using different prosthetic devices. Therefore, a knowledge gap remains. To aid in determining the impact of different devices on gait in individuals with lower limb loss, a more sensitive quantitative measure should be used to supplement traditional biomechanical analyses. Continuous measures of coordination and stability, evaluated using relative phase analysis, has been shown to detect changes in gait patterns when traditional variables cannot. However, these measures have yet to be fully assessed in this population. This investigation will fill the knowledge gap by using relative phase analysis to provide a comprehensive description of kinematic behaviour by evaluating continuous interlimb coordination and stability for individuals with lower limb loss.

Methods and analysis

Biomechanical analysis of individuals with lower limb loss during walking activities will be evaluated using relative phase analysis to identify the continuous interlimb coordination and stability relationships between the upper and lower extremities of these individuals. Three-dimensional motion capture will enable kinematic properties of movement to be captured and analysed. Non-traditional measures of analysis will be used.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by the Veterans Affairs New York Harbor Healthcare System Institutional Review Board (IRBNet #1573135, MIRB #1775). Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, academic conference presentations, invited workshops, webinars and seminars.
Enhancing care quality and accessibility through digital technology-supported decentralisation of hypertension and diabetes management: a proof-of-concept study in rural Bangladesh
Authors: Xie Wubin , Paul Rina Rani , Goon Ian Y , Anan Aysha , Rahim Aminur , Hossain Md Mokbul , Hersch Fred , Oldenburg Brian , Chambers John , Mridha Malay Kanti
Published: November 2023

Objective

The critical shortage of healthcare workers, particularly in rural areas, is a major barrier to quality care for non-communicable diseases (NCD) in low-income and middle-income countries. In this proof-of-concept study, we aimed to test a decentralised model for integrated diabetes and hypertension management in rural Bangladesh to improve accessibility and quality of care.

Design and setting

The study is a single-cohort proof-of-concept study. The key interventions comprised shifting screening, routine monitoring and dispensing of medication refills from a doctor-managed subdistrict NCD clinic to non-physician health worker-managed village-level community clinics; a digital care coordination platform was developed for electronic health records, point-of-care support, referral and routine patient follow-up. The study was conducted in the Parbatipur subdistrict, Rangpur Division, Bangladesh.

Participants

A total of 624 participants were enrolled in the study (mean (SD) age, 59.5 (12.0); 65.1% female).

Outcomes

Changes in blood pressure and blood glucose control, patient retention and patient-visit volume at the NCD clinic and community clinics.

Results

The proportion of patients with uncontrolled blood pressure reduced from 60% at baseline to 26% at the third month of follow-up, a 56% (incidence rate ratio 0.44; 95% CI 0.33 to 0.57) reduction after adjustment for covariates. The proportion of patients with uncontrolled blood glucose decreased from 74% to 43% at the third month of follow-up. Attrition rates immediately after baseline and during the entire study period were 29.1% and 36.2%, respectively.

Conclusion

The proof-of-concept study highlights the potential for involving lower-level primary care facilities and non-physician health workers to rapidly expand much-needed services to patients with hypertension and diabetes in Bangladesh and in similar global settings. Further investigations are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of decentralised hypertension and diabetes care.
Six month incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events among adults with HIV in northern Tanzania: a prospective observational study
Authors: Stark Kristen , O'Leary Paige R.E. , Sakita Francis M , Ford James S , Mmbaga Blandina T , Blass Beau , Gedion Kalipa , Coaxum Lauren A , Rutta Alice , Galson Sophie Wolfe , Rugakingira Anzibert , Manavalan Preeti , Bloomfield Gerald S , Hertz Julian T
Published: November 2023

Objectives

We aimed to prospectively describe incident cardiovascular events among people living with HIV (PLWH) in northern Tanzania. Secondary aims of this study were to understand non-communicable disease care-seeking behaviour and patient preferences for cardiovascular care and education.

Design

A prospective observational study.

Setting

This study was conducted at the Majengo HIV Care and Treatment Clinic, an outpatient government-funded clinic in Moshi, Tanzania

Participants

Adult patients presenting to an HIV clinic for routine care in northern Tanzania were enrolled from 1 September 2020 to 1 March 2021.

Interventions

At enrolment, participants completed a survey and a resting 12-lead ECG was obtained. At 6 month follow-up, a repeat survey regarding interim health events and repeat ECG was obtained.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Interim major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were defined by: self-reported interim stroke, self-reported hospitalisation for heart failure, self-reported interim myocardial infarction, interim myocardial infarction by ECG criteria (new pathologic Q waves in two contiguous leads) or death due to cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Results

Of 500 enrolled participants, 477 (95.4%) completed 6 month follow-up and 3 (0.6%) died. Over the 6 month follow-up period, 11 MACE occurred (3 strokes, 6 myocardial infarctions, 1 heart failure hospitalisation and 1 cardiovascular death), resulting in an incidence rate of 4.58 MACE per 100 person-years. Of participants completing 6 month follow-up, 31 (6.5%) reported a new non-communicable disease diagnosis, including 23 (4.8%) with a new hypertension diagnosis.

Conclusions

The incidence of MACE among PLWH in Tanzania is high. These findings are an important preliminary step in understanding the landscape of CVD among PLWH in Tanzania and highlight the need for interventions to reduce cardiovascular risk in this population.
Association between the number of teeth and incident pre-diabetes among middle-aged adults with periodontal disease: a retrospective cohort analysis of Japanese claims data
Authors: Hasegawa Kohei , Sakurai Akinari , Mizuki Masaru , Kurita Hiroshi , Tsukahara Teruomi , Nomiyama Tetsuo
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To investigate the association between the number of teeth and the new onset of pre-diabetes.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

The National Database of Health Insurance Claims and Specific Health Checkups of Japan, which holds information from both the yearly health check-up programme known as the ‘Specific Health Checkup’ and health insurance claims data.

Participants

1 098 371 normoglycaemic subjects who participated in the Specific Health Checkup programme every year from fiscal year (FY) 2015 to FY 2018 and had dental insurance claims data with a diagnosis of periodontal disease during FY 2016.

Outcome measures

Incidence of pre-diabetes or diabetes observed at the Specific Health Checkup during FY 2018.

Results

Among the participants, 1 77 908 subjects developed pre-diabetes, and 579 developed diabetes at the check-up during the subsequent follow-up year. Compared with the subjects with 26–28 teeth, those with 20–25, 15–19 or 1–14 teeth were associated with an increased likelihood of developing pre-diabetes or diabetes onset with adjusted ORs of 1.03 (95% CI: 1.02 to 1.05), 1.06 (1.03 to 1.09) and 1.07 (1.04 to 1.11), respectively. No clear modifications were observed for age, sex, body mass index or current smoking.

Conclusions

Having fewer teeth was associated with a higher incidence of pre-diabetes. Due to the limitations of this study, however, causality remains undetermined.
PAKistan Study of prEmature coronary atHerosclerosis in young AdulTs (PAK-SEHAT): a prospective longitudinal study protocol investigating the prevalence, severity and determinants of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in the young adult Pakistani population
Authors: Hanif Bashir , Sheikh Sana , Peerwani Ghazal , Cainzos-Achirica Miguel , Javed Wajiha , Baqar Jaffer Bin , Samad Zainab , Bashir Faiza , S Virani Salim , Nasir Khurram , Aijaz Saba
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a major cause of morbidity, mortality and health expenditures worldwide. Despite having higher ASCVD in the Pakistani population, data on subclinical coronary atherosclerosis in young Pakistanis remain scarce. The PAKistan Study of prEmature coronary atHerosclerosis in young AdulTs (PAK-SEHAT) aims to assess the prevalence, severity and determinants of subclinical coronary atherosclerosis among Pakistani men (35–60 years) and women (35–65 years) free of clinically symptomatic ASCVD and will assess 5-year rates of ASCVD events.

Methods and analysis

PAK-SEHAT is an ongoing prospective cohort study with 2000 participants from all provinces of Pakistan who will be interviewed at the baseline along with phlebotomy, measurement of carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and coronary CT angiography (CCTA). Phlebotomy will be repeated at 2.5 years, whereas CIMT and CCTA will be repeated at 5 years. We will report the frequency of maximal coronary stenosis ≥50% and ≥70%, number of coronary vessels with plaque and the number of coronary segments affected per participant on CCTA. We will use Cox proportional hazards regression models to evaluate the association between baseline characteristics and incident ASCVD events during follow-up. These associations will be presented as HRs with 95% CIs.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol was approved by the Tabba Heart Institute Institutional Review Board (THI/IRB/FQ/22-09-2021/016). All study procedures are consistent with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Findings of the study will be disseminated via peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

Trial registration number

NCT05156736.
Single-facility study of the effectiveness of rehabilitation therapy using wearable hybrid assistive limb for patients with bleeding disorders: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Mawarikado Yuya , Sakata Asuka , Inagaki Yusuke , Shirai Daisuke , Tatsumi Kohei , Nogami Keiji , Tanaka Yasuhito , Kido Akira , Shima Midori
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Haemophilic arthropathy, a serious complication of haemophilia, results from recurrent joint bleeding, causing progressive joint damage and severely impacting patient quality of life. Rehabilitation therapy (RT) effectively addresses declining physical function due to joint degradation, but pain during RT can hinder its success. Therefore, an effective pain-alleviating treatment method is required. The single-joint hybrid assistive limb (HAL-SJ), a powered exoskeleton, measures bioelectric potential during muscle contraction and provides motorised support, potentially alleviating pain.

Objective

This study outlines our protocol for a randomised, prospective, single-blind (evaluator) trial aimed to investigate the effects of HAL-SJ on pain reduction during RT, kinesiophobia and other physical functions in patients with haemophilia.

Methods and analysis

This two-group comparison intervention study will include 24 male patients aged 12–85 years diagnosed with a bleeding disorder necessitating RT for pain and physical function improvement. The primary outcome measures pain changes during the first and second RT session in patients receiving HAL-SJ-assisted RT compared with traditional RT without HAL-SJ. The secondary outcomes include kinesiophobia (Japanese version of the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia), standing position gait (zebris FDM-T treadmill), range of motion (manual goniometer) and body surface temperature (infrared thermography camera) during the study period of up to 3 months or until the end of 10 RTs. RT intensity remains below that required to move the affected joint against gravity, given HAL-SJ’s muscular support. The follow-up period extends to 1 month after the last RT. Intergroup study variables are compared by an unpaired t-test or Mann-Whitney test. Intragroup comparisons of secondary outcomes are analysed by a paired t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by the accreditation committee of Nara Medical University Hospital. The study results will disseminate through publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

jRCTs052220076.
Chronotypes and their association with sleep quality among Chinese college students of Anhui Province: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tong Xin , Gao Mei-mei , Zhang Liu , Song Jian-gen , Feng Ying , Tao Yujing , Zhu Li-jun , Wen Li-ying , Jin Yue-long , Chang Wei-wei
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To describe the prevalence of chronotype and sleep quality among Chinese college students and explore the relationship between chronotype and sleep quality.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Setting

Four colleges and universities in Anhui, China, between November and December 2020.

Participants

A total of 4768 college students were recruited using a stratified, multistage, cluster sampling survey.

Outcome measures

Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire 19 was used to determine the chronotype of the students and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to measure their sleep quality. The multiple logistic regression model was used to explore the potential association between chronotype and sleep quality.

Results

The self-reported proportions of evening-type (E-type), neutral-type and morning-type among college students were 51.17%, 45.14% and 3.69%, respectively. The mean PSQI score was 4.97±2.82 and the prevalence of poor sleep quality was 18.2%. After adjusting the covariates by multiple logistic regression analysis, E-type was positively associated with subjective sleep quality (OR=1.671, 95% CI 1.414 to 1.975), sleep latency (OR=1.436, 95% CI 1.252 to 1.647), sleep duration (OR=2.149, 95% CI 1.506 to 3.067), habitual sleep efficiency (OR=1.702, 95% CI 1.329 to 2.180), daytime dysfunction (OR=1.602, 95% CI 1.412 to 1.818) and overall poor sleep quality (OR=1.866, 95% CI 1.586 to 2.196).

Conclusions

College students mainly exhibited E-type, and an elevated prevalence of poor sleep quality existed among these students. The E-type was positively associated with poor sleep quality.
Predictors of outcome in sciatica patients following an epidural steroid injection: the POiSE prospective observational cohort study protocol
Authors: Stynes Siobhan , Snell Kym IE , Riley Richard D , Konstantinou Kika , Cherrington Andrea , Daud Noor , Ostelo Raymond , O'Dowd John , Foster Nadine E
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Sciatica can be very painful and, in most cases, is due to pressure on a spinal nerve root from a disc herniation with associated inflammation. For some patients, the pain persists, and one management option is a spinal epidural steroid injection (ESI). The aim of an ESI is to relieve leg pain, improve function and reduce the need for surgery. ESIs work well in some patients but not in others, but we cannot identify these patient subgroups currently. This study aims to identify factors, including patient characteristics, clinical examination and imaging findings, that help in predicting who does well and who does not after an ESI. The overall objective is to develop a prognostic model to support individualised patient and clinical decision-making regarding ESI.

Methods

POiSE is a prospective cohort study of 439 patients with sciatica referred by their clinician for an ESI. Participants will receive weekly text messages until 12 weeks following their ESIand then again at 24 weeks following their ESI to collect data on leg pain severity. Questionnaires will be sent to participants at baseline, 6, 12 and 24 weeks after their ESI to collect data on pain, disability, recovery and additional interventions. The prognosis for the cohort will be described. The primary outcome measure for the prognostic model is leg pain at 6 weeks. Prognostic models will also be developed for secondary outcomes of disability and recovery at 6 weeks and additional interventions at 24 weeks following ESI. Statistical analyses will include multivariable linear and logistic regression with mixed effects model.

Ethics and dissemination

The POiSE study has received ethical approval (South Central Berkshire B Research Ethics Committee 21/SC/0257). Dissemination will be guided by our patient and public engagement group and will include scientific publications, conference presentations and social media.
Incidence and predictors of respiratory distress syndrome among low birth weight neonates in the first seven days in Northwest Ethiopia Comprehensive Specialized Hospitals, 2023: A retrospective follow-up study
Authors: Wondie Wubet Tazeb , Legesse Bruck Tesfaye , Mekonnen Gebrehiwot Berie , Degaga Gosa Tesfaye , Zemariam Alemu Birara , Gedefaw Gezahagn Demsu , Abebe Dereje Esubalew , Kassie Yohannes Tesfahun , Gonete Almaz Tefera , Belay Alamirew Enyew , Wubneh Chalachew Adugna
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Respiratory distress syndrome is a catastrophic respiratory problem among low birth weight neonates. It increases the suffering of neonates and the economic expenditure of the countries. Notably, it is a major public health issue in low-income and middle-income countries such as Ethiopia. Despite this, studies regarding respiratory distress syndrome among low birth weight neonates were limited in Ethiopia.

Objective

To assess the incidence and predictors of respiratory distress syndrome among low birth weight neonates in the first 7 days in Northwest Ethiopia Comprehensive Specialized Hospitals.

Method

Multicentred institution-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted from 19 September 2021 to 1 January 2023, among 423 low birthweight neonates. A simple random sampling technique was used. The data were collected using a data extraction checklist from the medical registry of neonates. The collected data were entered into EPI-DATA V.4.6.0.6. and analysed using STATA V.14. The Kaplan-Meier failure curve and log-rank test were employed. Bivariable and multivariable Weibull regression was carried out to identify predictors of respiratory distress syndrome. Statistical significance was declared at a p≤0.05.

Result

The incidence rate of respiratory distress syndrome was found to be 10.78 (95% CI 9.35 to 12.42) per 100 neonate days. Fifth minute Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, Respiration (APGAR score) <7 (AHR 1.86; 95% CI 1.18 to 2.92), multiple pregnancy (AHR 1.43; 95% CI 1.04 to 1.96), caesarean section delivery (AHR 0.62; 95% CI 0.41 to 0.93), prematurity (AHR 1.56; 95% CI 1.06 to 2.30) and birth weight <1000 g (AHR 3.14; 95% CI 1.81 to 5.40) and 1000–1499 g (AHR 2.06; 95% CI 1.42 to 2.83) were significant predictors.

Conclusion

The incidence of respiratory distress syndrome was higher than other studies conducted on other groups of neonates. Multiple pregnancy, fifth minute APGAR score, caesarean section, prematurity, extremely low birth weight and very low birth weight were predictors of respiratory distress syndrome. However, it needs further prospective study. Therefore, the concerned stakeholders should give due attention and appropriate intervention for these predictors.
Morphological subtypes of colorectal low-grade intraepithelial neoplasia: diagnostic reproducibility, frequency and clinical impact
Authors: Lang-Schwarz Corinna , Büttner-Herold Maike , Burian Stephan , Erber Ramona , Hartmann Arndt , Jesinghaus Moritz , Kamarádová Kateřina , Rubio Carlos A , Seitz Gerhard , Sterlacci William , Vieth Michael , Bertz Simone
Published: November 2023

Aims

Special histomorphological subtypes of colorectal low-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (LGIN) with variable prognostic impact were recently described in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) referred to as non-conventional dysplasia. However, they can also be found in patients without IBD. We aimed to analyse the reproducibility, frequency and prognostic impact of non-conventional colorectal LGIN in patients with and without IBD.

Methods

Six pathologists evaluated 500 specimens of five different LGIN-cohorts from patients with and without IBD. Non-conventional LGIN included hypermucinous, goblet cell-deficient, Paneth cell-rich and crypt cell dysplasia. A goblet cell-rich type and non-conventional LGIN, not otherwise specified were added. Results were compared with the original expert-consented diagnosis from archived pathology records.

Results

Four or more pathologists agreed in 86.0% of all cases. Non-conventional LGIN was seen in 44.4%, more frequently in patients with IBD (52%; non-IBD: 39.3%, p=0.005). In patients with IBD non-conventional LGIN associated with more frequent and earlier LGIN relapse (p=0.006, p=0.025), high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (p=0.003), larger lesion size (p=0.001), non-polypoid lesions (p=0.019) and additional risk factors (p=0.034). Results were highly comparable with expert-consented diagnoses. In patients without IBD, non-conventional LGIN may indicate a higher risk for concurrent or subsequent colorectal carcinoma (CRC, p=0.056 and p=0.061, respectively). Frequencies and association with high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia or CRC varied between the different LGIN subtypes.

Conclusions

Non-conventional histomorphology in colorectal LGIN is frequent and highly reproducible. Our results indicate an increased risk for CRC in patients with non-conventional LGIN, probably independent of IBD. We recommend reporting non-conventional LGIN in routine pathology reports.
Intergenerational relationship between parental famine exposure and offspring’s obesity risks
Authors: Hu Kai , Cui Aoyuan , Zhang Xiao
Published: November 2023

Background

The intergenerational relationship between parental famine exposure and the obesity risks of offspring has not been well studied.

Methods

Using a cohort of 3654 respondents whose parents were born between 1950 and 1964 from the national data of the China Family Panel Studies, this study examines the associations between parental exposure to the 1959–1961 Chinese famine and offspring’s body mass index (BMI). A cross-sectional difference-in-difference design was used to estimate the effects of parental famine exposures on offspring’s BMI by exploiting temporal variations in the duration and period of famine across the parental birth cohorts between 1950 and 1964, and geographical variations in the famine severity at the province level.

Results

After adjusting individual characteristics and province-level fixed effects, we found that parental famine exposures in the preschool and school-age stages were associated with an increased BMI of offspring while there was not a significant association between prenatal famine exposure and offspring’s BMI. The stratified analyses further show that the effects of parental famine exposure did not follow the same trajectory in subgroups.

Conclusions

Famine experiences of parents were associated with increased BMI of offspring, suggesting an intergenerational impact of severe malnutrition on obesity risks.
A large ‘Active Magnetic Shield’ for a high-precision experiment
Authors: Abel C. , Ayres N. J. , Ban G. , Bison G. , Bodek K. , Bondar V. , Bouillaud T. , Chanel E. , Chen J. , Chen W. , Chiu P. -J. , Crawford C. B. , Daum M. , Doorenbos C. B. , Emmenegger S. , Ferraris-Bouchez L. , Fertl M. , Fratangelo A. , Griffith W. C. , Grujic Z. D. , Harris P. , Kirch K. , Kletzl V. , Koss P. A. , Krempel J. , Lauss B. , Lefort T. , Mullan P. , Naviliat-Cuncic O. , Pais D. , Piegsa F. M. , Pignol G. , Rawlik M. , Rienäcker I. , Ries D. , Roccia S. , Rozpedzik D. , Saenz-Arevalo W. , Schmidt-Wellenburg P. , Schnabel A. , Segarra E. P. , Severijns N. , Shelton T. , Svirina K. , Tavakoli Dinani R. , Thorne J. , Virot R. , Yazdandoost N. , Zejma J. , Ziehl N. , Zsigmond G.
Published: November 2023

We present a novel Active Magnetic Shield (AMS), designed and implemented for the n2EDM experiment at the Paul Scherrer Institute. The experiment will perform a high-sensitivity search for the electric dipole moment of the neutron. Magnetic-field stability and control is of key importance for n2EDM. A large, cubic, 5 m side length, magnetically shielded room (MSR) provides a passive, quasi-static shielding-factor of about $$10^5$$

10
5

for its inner sensitive volume. The AMS consists of a system of eight complex, feedback-controlled compensation coils constructed on an irregular grid spanned on a volume of less than 1000 m$$^3$$

3

around the MSR. The AMS is designed to provide a stable and uniform magnetic-field environment around the MSR, while being reasonably compact. The system can compensate static and variable magnetic fields up to $$\pm \, 50 \, {\upmu }\hbox {T}$$

±

50

μ
T

(homogeneous components) and $$\pm \, 5 \, {\upmu }\hbox {T/m}$$

±

5

μ
T/m

(first-order gradients), suppressing them to a few $${\upmu }\hbox {T}$$

μ
T

in the sub-Hertz frequency range. The presented design concept and implementation of the AMS fulfills the requirements of the n2EDM experiment and can be useful for other applications, where magnetically silent environments are important and spatial constraints inhibit simpler geometrical solutions.
Thermal transport in H-terminated ultrathin [110] Si nanowires: a first principles study
Authors: Hahn Konstanze R. , Melis Claudio , Bernardini Fabio , Paulatto Lorenzo , Colombo Luciano
Published: November 2023

Phonon properties of ultrathin Si nanowires in [110] direction have been calculated by density functional perturbation theory. Several samples with varying diameters ranging from 0.38 to 1.5 nm have been investigated. It is found that the frequencies of optical phonons at the zone center increase with decrease in size of the nanowire, giving rise to avoided-crossing with longitudinal acoustic phonons. This feature determines a corresponding increase in the scattering rates and flattening of the longitudinal acoustic mode. More specifically, a remarkable change in scattering rates is shown for decreasing diameter. Results of the thermal conductivity are much lower with respect to bulk Si and are found between 40 and 119 $$\hbox {Wm}^{-1}$$

Wm

-
1

$$\hbox {K}^{-1}$$

K

-
1

, also providing evidence of increasing thermal conductivity with increase in diameter. This effect is attributed to several changes in the phonon dispersions. Finally, it is shown that approximating the boundary scattering of phonons by Casimir scattering leads to a severe underestimation of the thermal conductivity in these systems.
ANALYSIS OF THE CHANGES IN THE BRAIN ACTIVITY BETWEEN REST AND MULTITASKING WORKLOAD BY COMPLEXITY-BASED ANALYSIS OF EEG SIGNALS
Authors: PARTHASARATHY SRIRAM , MARESOVA PETRA , RAJAGOPAL KARTHIKEYAN , NAMAZI HAMIDREZA
Published: November 2023

Analysis of the changes in brain activity between rest and various conditions is an important area of research. We investigated the changes in brain activity among rest and multitask workload (SIMKAP multitasking test) by quantifying the complexity of EEG signals. The results showed that EEG signals have smaller fractal dimensions, sample entropy, and approximate entropy during the SIMKAP multitasking test than the rest. Therefore, the complexity of EEG signals was lower during the SIMKAP multitasking test than the rest. In further research, we can study the changes in brain activity among other conditions, which has great benefits in decoding brain activity in various conditions.
A Novel Incentive Routing Protocol with Virtual Projection for Mobile Packet Forwarding Nodes in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Niranjan L. , Manoj Priyatham M.
Published: November 2023

The size of the Packet Forwarding Nodes (PFNs) is becoming very small as the technology advances in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). The node has an additional parameter with low energy levels. The PFNs are distributed in a square cross-sectional area with each node acting as a Sensing Point (SP) that can be used for various kinds of applications like temperature, atmospheric humidity, acoustic, and pressure measurements. The packet is divided into several fragments where each fragment is considered as fixed or variable length. Each of these packets is sent over multiple PFNs toward the data center using PFNs. The selection of PFNs in the path is picked based on the trust level. In the network even special PFNs are placed which are responsible to deliver the packets toward the data center without losing the data during the transmission. The selection of special PFNs is done by computing the meeting probability, remaining energy computation, computation of data weight, and security value computation. The proposed Incentive Routing Protocol with Virtual Projection (IRPVP) method is compared with the conventional approaches concerning the parameters like delay, link count, resource energy, healthy PFNs, non-healthy PFNs, health ratio computation, remaining energy, control to data ratio, and balancing factor. The simulation outcomes show that the performance of the proposed IRPVP algorithm is better than the other conventional algorithms.
Investigating the analytical relationship between pore geometry and other pore space properties in carbonate rocks
Authors: Khadem Benyamin , Saberi Mohammad Reza , Krief Michel , Abbasi Hossein Rezaei
Published: November 2023

Although pore geometry plays an important role in carbonate rock physics modelling, few studies have been carried out on its analytic relationship with other pore space properties such as pore space stiffness. We propose an analytical workflow based on the differential effective medium (DEM) to estimate the elastic properties of carbonate rocks. The validity of our results is then cross-checked with the Xu and Payne model on a real carbonate dataset. This workflow establishes a direct and quantitative link between the pore geometry of carbonate rock and its other pore space properties such as the Biot coefficient and pore space stiffness. This relationship can, furthermore, be utilized in defining rock physics templates (RPTs) to investigate the role of pore geometry on the rock elastic properties. Furthermore, we extended the Biot–Gassmann–Krief (BGK) model through our proposed workflow by establishing a theoretical framework to relate the main components of the BGK model to the pore geometry usually estimated in the laboratory or empirically. This can help to investigate the impact of fluid substitution on each of these main components. Our investigation suggests that the higher the Biot and Gassmann coefficients, the more sensitive the rock is to fluid substitution. Moreover, this analytical workflow has been employed to examine the role of selecting different rotational spheroids (i.e. oblate and prolate) on the modelled velocities. Our results show that the modelled velocities depend on this selection in such a way that prolate pores are less sensitive to the variations in their pore aspect ratio compared with oblate pores.
Elucidating the Effects of Temperature on Nonaqueous Redox Flow Cell Cycling Performance
Authors: Quinn Alexander H. , Ripley Katelyn M. , Matteucci Nicholas J. , Neyhouse Bertrand J. , Brown Chloe A. O. , Woltmann William P. , Brushett Fikile R.
Published: November 2023

The impact of cell temperature is a relatively underexplored area within the burgeoning field of nonaqueous redox flow batteries (NAqRFBs). Here, we investigate the effect of elevated temperature on the performance of nonaqueous redox electrolytes and associated flow cells. Using a model compound, N-(2-(2-methoxyethoxy)-ethyl)phenothiazine (MEEPT), in a propylene-carbonate-based electrolyte, we experimentally measure the temperature dependence of relevant physicochemical properties (i.e., electrolyte conductivity, viscosity, diffusivity) and electrochemical characteristics (i.e., chemical and electrochemical reversibility) across a temperature range of 30 °C to 70 °C. We then perform flow cell studies, finding that while ohmic and mass transport resistances decrease significantly with increases in temperature for the MEEPT/MEEPT+· redox couple, accessible electrolyte capacity gradually reduces at temperatures

>

50 °C. Ex-situ, post-test characterization using microelectrode voltammetry suggests that this capacity fade is due to instability of the MEEPT radical cation. Finally, using MEEPT as a posolyte and a model viologen negolyte (bis(2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethyl)viologen), we assemble a full cell and perform polarization analyses, observing a 2× increase in the peak power density when the operating temperature is increased from 30 °C to 70 °C. Broadly, this work highlights opportunities for systematic engineering of nonaqueous electrolytes and flow cells for higher power operation at elevated temperatures.
Graphitic Carbon Nitride (g-C3N4) Modified Carbon Electrodes for Electrochemical Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Bajpai Om Prakash , El Koura Zakaria , Pucher Ilaria , Orlandi Michele , Miotello Antonio
Published: November 2023

In this work, commercial porous carbon electrodes viz., Graphite Felt (GF), Carbon Felt (CF), and Carbon Cloth (CC) were modified by graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4). In the process, g-C3N4 was in situ synthesized via thermal condensation of melamine over carbon electrodes. The structure, morphology, composition and electrochemical properties of the carbon electrodes were analysed. Electrochemical investigation revealed improved performance for g-C3N4 modified electrodes as decreased overpotentials in water splitting configuration. The electrochemical active area evaluation allows to attribute the enhanced performance to catalytic activity of g-C3N4 on carbon electrodes rather than increased surface-to-volume ratio. Overall, in situ synthesized g-C3N4 is proved to be a promising material for tuning the electrochemical activity of the porous carbon electrodes through an easy and potentially scalable process towards electrochemical energy storage systems.
Electrochemical Characterization of Salt-in-Water and Water-in-Salt Zinc Sulfate and Zinc Acetate Electrolytes
Authors: Li Yvpei , Qiao Peiqi , Yang Yifan , Zhou Zixiang , Teng Ruirui , Xing Yichuang , Wang Chao
Published: November 2023

The electrochemical properties of Zn(OAc)2 or ZnSO4 with water at different concentrations are investigated. The electrochemical stability window follows Pt < Au < glassy carbon electrodes, and expands with increasing concentration of electrolytes. The change in salt concentration does not significantly change the double layer capacitance, and the potential of zero charge of Pt, Au and glassy carbon electrodes are estimated to be 0.25–0.35 VSCE, 0.05 VSCE, and –0.20 VSCE, respectively. With hydroquinone as the redox probe, the redox electrochemistry, ion transport and electron transport kinetics in these electrolytes are studied. The apparent redox potential of hydroquinone increases with the electrolyte concentration, and the diffusion coefficients of hydroquinone in Zn(OAc)2 and ZnSO4 electrolytes decrease with the increase of electrolyte concentration. The electron transfer rate constants (k) between the electrode and hydroquinone in Zn(OAc)2 and ZnSO4 electrolytes range in 1.28–1.46 cm s−1 and 0.29–0.81 cm s−1, respectively. The lower k in ZnSO4 electrolytes is related to the lower solvent reorganization energy, the interaction of electroactive ions with water, and the interaction of electrolyte cations.
Dual Role of Fe2+ in the Galena Flotation and Influence on Selective Separation
Authors: Yang Bo , Wang Xiao , Xie Xian , Yang Zixuan
Published: November 2023

Fe ions, as one of the unavoidable metal ions, are present in flotation pulp as ferric and ferrous species, and the effect of ferric species on the flotation behavior of sulfide minerals has been widely discussed in the above literatures. However, the effect of ferrous species has rarely been noticed. In this paper, the effect of ferrous species on the flotation behavior and surface characteristics of galena was investigated by using microflotation, zeta potential measurements, X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS) analysis, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Microflotation tests indicated that the flotation recovery of galena with potassium butyl xanthate (KBX) as collector was significantly decreased with the addition of Fe2+ in the pulp, and the recovery was further decreased with increasing dosage of Fe2+. In addition, the finer the galena particles, the greater the decrease in flotation recovery. Zeta potential analysis illustrated that the isoelectric point (IEP) was shifted from 4.4 to 5.8 due to the adsorption of ferrous hydroxyl complexes on the galena surface and the zeta potential. XPS surface analysis suggested that the surface oxidation of galena was alleviated by the consumption of O2 in the pulp, which reduced the adsorption of the collector KBX on and the oxidation of xanthates to dixanthogens. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations confirmed that the ferrous hydroxyl complex FeOH+ could be adsorbed on the galena surface by interactions between Fe and S atoms.
Evaluation of High Stocking Densities on the Water Quality and Growth Performance of Pacific White Shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei Reared in a Mixotrophic Biofloc Nursery System
Authors: Mohammadi Ghasem , Seddiq Mortazavi Mohammad , Hafezieh Mahmoud
Published: November 2023

The present study aimed to explore the effects of intensive culture densities on the water quality and growth performance of the Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei reared in a mixotrophic biofloc system (heterotrophic/chemoautotrophic) at three stocking rates of 5,000, 4,000, and 3,000 PL/m3 (namely G5000, G4000, and G3000, respectively) for 21 days. At the end of the study, the mean values of water temperature, dissolved oxygen, dissolved oxygen saturation level, pH, oxidation-reduction potential, free carbon dioxide, alkalinity, total ammonia nitrogen (TAN), nitrite-nitrogen (NO2-N), nitrate-nitrogen, and settleable solids did not substantially differ among study groups (

p
>
0.05

). In addition, the highest mean levels of TAN and NO2-N recorded were 1.27 mg/l (G4000) and 9.23 mg/l (G3000), respectively. The results of growth performance revealed that final body weight, weight gain, weekly growth rate, and specific growth rate were not affected by the studied densities (

p
>
0.05

). Although no significant differences were observed (

p
>
0.05

), the G3000 treatment exhibited the highest survival rate (80.66% ± 8.56%), followed by G4000 (75.05% ± 0.31%) and G5000 (71.63% ± 2.11%). However, the shrimp yield was meaningfully higher for G5000 treatment (1.72 ± 0.0.09 kg/m3, 0.69 ± 0.03 kg/m2) compared with G3000 group (1.27 ± 0.0.12 kg/m3, 0.48 ± 0.04 kg/m2) (

p
<
0.05

). Our results indicate L. vannamei can be reared at intensive nursery densities of up to 5,000 PL/m3 (2,000 PL/m2) until reaching 0.5 g without significant retardation in water quality, growth, and survival.