bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Realizing high efficiency and large-area sterilization by a rotating plasma jet device
Authors: LI Hua , LI Minglei , ZHU Hongcheng , ZHANG Yuhan , DU Xiaoxia , CHEN Zhencheng , XIAO Wenxiang , LIU Kun
Published: February 2022

By tilting a plasma jet and rotating 360°, a large-area can be scanned and sterilized in a short time. Compared with the previous array device, this pipe has the significant advantages of high sterilization uniformity and low gas consumption. Firstly, a rotatable plasma jet device, which can control the swing and rotation of a jet pipe, is designed, and a corresponding theoretical model is established to guide the experiment. Secondly, with Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) as the target bacteria, the device achieves a short sterilization time of 158 s—the minimum sterilization flow of S. aureus and E. coli is 0.8 slm and 0.6 slm, respectively. The device is compared with an array plasma sterilization device in terms of sterilization speed and gas consumption. The results show that the device is not only better than an array plasma sterilization device with respect to scanning uniformity, but also far less than the array plasma sterilization device in gas consumption of 5 slm. Therefore, the device has great potential in applications involving efficient, large-area sterilization.
Microstructural observation and mechanical properties behavior of Al2O3/Al6061 nanocomposite fabricated by stir casting process
Authors: Awate Pankaj P. , Barve Shivprakash B.
Published: February 2022

Aluminum oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticles are capable of improving the material characteristics if reinforced to soft and low strength material. The major limitation in the utilization of Al alloy 6061 in medium to heavy stress applications such as automobile, defense, transportations, and aerospace is low hardness and strength. In order to overcome the deficiency of Al6061, nano-Al2O3 reinforced Al6061 matrix nanocomposite (AMNC) was successfully fabricated on machinated aluminum stir casting furnace. Al2O3 nanoparticles in 2,4,6 and 8 wt.% were reinforced in the Al6061 matrix and the effect on mechanical and microstructure behavior was investigated by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), hardness, and tensile testing methods. Higher magnification FESEM micrographs revealed that reinforcement of nano-Al2O3 leads to considerable grain refinement and uniform distribution with less porosity. The mechanical properties results showed enhancement in tensile strength (by 130%), hardness (by 156%), yield stress (by 360%) with reinforcement of nano-Al2O3 over the base alloy Al6061. It was observed that the nano size of Al2O3 particles, the quantity of reinforcement, and the stir casting process were effective factors on the microstructure and mechanical properties enhancement.
Factors Associated With Willingness to Receive a COVID-19 Vaccine Among 23,819 Adults Aged 50 Years or Older: An Analysis of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging
Authors: Basta Nicole E , Sohel Nazmul , Sulis Giorgia , Wolfson Christina , Maimon Geva , Griffith Lauren E , Kirkland Susan , McMillan Jacqueline M , Thompson Mary , Raina Parminder ,   for the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) Research Team
Published: February 2022

Identifying persons who are least willing to receive a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine is critical for increasing uptake via targeted outreach. We conducted a survey of 23,819 Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging participants from September 29 to December 29, 2020, to assess factors associated with COVID-19 vaccination willingness and reasons for willingness or lack thereof. Among adults aged 50–96 years, 84.1% (95% confidence interval (CI): 83.7, 84.6) were very or somewhat willing to receive a COVID-19 vaccine; 15.9% (95% CI: 15.4, 16.3) were uncertain or very or somewhat unwilling. Based on logistic regression, those who were younger, female, had lower education and income, were non-White, and lived in a rural area were less willing to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. After controlling for these factors, recent receipt of influenza vaccine (adjusted odds ratio = 14.3, 95% CI: 12.5, 16.2) or planning to receive influenza vaccine (adjusted odds ratio = 10.5, 95% CI: 9.5, 11.6), as compared with no receipt or planning, was most strongly associated with COVID-19 vaccination willingness. Willingness was also associated with believing one had never been infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) and experiencing negative pandemic consequences. Safety concerns were most common among those unwilling. Our comprehensive assessment of COVID-19 vaccination willingness among older adults in Canada, a prioritized group for vaccination due to their risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes, provides a road map for conducting outreach to increase uptake, which is urgently needed.
Composite Dorsal Augmentation
Authors: Zholtikov Vitaly , Ouerghi Riadh , Daniel Rollin K
Published: February 2022

Background

Dorsal augmentation is one of the most challenging procedures in rhinoplasty. Solid grafts and diced fascia graft (DC-F) have been employed for this purpose with varying success. Warping, irregularities, and variability of final height are some of the potential pitfalls.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the efficiency of the authors’ approach combining multiple grafts for nasal dorsal augmentation. They described a technique employing composite dorsal augmentation that is a combination of a foundation layer utilizing high spreader grafts plus a dorsal gap graft combined with a contour layer of 3 possible types of fascia or DC-F grafts. The combination of the 2 layers for the nasal dorsum can be varied to achieve the required height to correct the patient’s deformity and achieve the desired aesthetic goals.

Methods

Fifty-one patients who underwent dorsal augmentation with composite technique between 2017 and 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. A step-by-step algorithm was applied to achieve the required dorsal height.

Results

The patients were divided into 3 groups according to the type of contour graft: double-layer fascia graft, segmental DC-F, or narrow thin full-length DC-F. Smooth continuity and increased projection of the nasal dorsum were achieved in all patients.

Conclusions

Composite dorsal augmentation is an effective technique for dorsal augmentations requiring 4 mm or more of height increase. This technique allows to achieve dorsal augmentation employing a combination of grafts from a single donor site together with camouflaging dorsal irregularities and highlighting dorsal aesthetic lines. This algorithm allows optimization of patients’ aesthetic profile.

Level of Evidence: 4
A high-throughput single cell-based antibody discovery approach against the full-length SARS-CoV-2 spike protein suggests a lack of neutralizing antibodies targeting the highly conserved S2 domain
Authors: Chai Mengya , Guo Yajuan , Yang Liu , Li Jianhui , Liu Shuo , Chen Lei , Shen Yuelei , Yang Yi , Wang Youchun , Xu Lida , Yu Changyuan
Published: February 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic continues globally with a growing number of infections, but there are currently no effective antibody drugs against the virus. In addition, 90% amino acid sequence identity between the S2 subunit of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and SARS-CoV S proteins attracts us to examine S2-targeted cross-neutralizing antibodies that are not yet well defined. We therefore immunized RenMab mice with the full-length S protein and constructed a high-throughput antibody discovery method based on single-cell sequencing technology to isolate SARS-CoV-2 S-targeted neutralizing antibodies and cross-neutralizing antibodies against the S2 region of SARS-CoV-2/SARS-CoV S. Diversity of antibody sequences in RenMab mice and consistency in B-cell immune responses between RenMab mice and humans enabled screening of fully human virus-neutralizing antibodies. From all the frequency >1 paired clonotypes obtained from single-cell V(D)J sequencing, 215 antibodies with binding affinities were identified and primarily bound S2. However, only two receptor-binding domain-targeted clonotypes had neutralizing activity against SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, 5' single-cell RNA sequencing indicated that these sorted splenic B cells are mainly plasmablasts, germinal center (GC)-dependent memory B-cells and GC B-cells. Among them, plasmablasts and GC-dependent memory B-cells were considered the most significant possibility of producing virus-specific antibodies. Altogether, using a high-throughput single cell-based antibody discovery approach, our study highlighted the challenges of developing S2-binding neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 and provided a novel direction for the enrichment of antigen-specific B-cells.
Evaluation of the Psychometric Properties of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support Among Resettled Burmese in the United States
Authors: Tonsing Kareen N
Published: February 2022

Social support plays an essential role in refugees’ mental health and well-being. To assess how people appraise their sources of support, one needs to have an appropriate valid and reliable measure. This study examines the psychometric properties of the Chin-Burmese version of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS-CB) among 242 resettled Burmese refugees. Participants completed the MSPSS-CB and the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10). Exploratory factor analysis found a three-factor solution that supported the theoretical dimensions of the original MSPSS: friends (FR), family (FAM) and significant others (SO) subscales, accounting for 82.15 per cent of the total variance. The Cronbach’s α was 0.96, 0.94 and 0.96 for the FR, FAM and SO, respectively. Confirmatory factor analysis found moderate goodness of fit of the data. Investigation of the fit indices revealed that the three-factor solution was adequate (χ2 = 73.65, df 51, p < 0.05); Goodness-of-Fit Index = 0.952; Normed Fit Index = 0.977; Comparative Fit Index  = 0.993 and root-mean-square error of approximation = 0.043. There were negative correlations between the FR, FAM and SO subscales and the K10. The current study's findings indicate that the MSPSS-CB is a reliable and valid instrument for use with the Chin-Burmese population and can provide helping professionals with a useful tool to measure and identify the source of social support.
Vascular feature as a modulator of the aging brain
Authors: Li Hechun , Jiang Sisi , Dong Debo , Hu Jian , He Chuan , Hou Changyue , He Hui , Huang Huan , Shen Dai , Pei Haonan , Zhao Guocheng , Dong Li , Yao Dezhong , Luo Cheng
Published: February 2022

The cerebral functional reorganization and declined cognitive function of aging might associate with altered vascular features. Here, we explored the altered cerebral hierarchical functional network of 2 conditions (task-free and naturalistic stimuli) in older adults and its relationship with vascular features (systemic microvascular and perfusion features, measured by magnetic resonance imaging) and behavior. Using cerebral gradient analysis, we found that compressive gradient of resting-state mainly located on the primary sensory-motor system and transmodal regions in aging, and further compress in these regions under the continuous naturalistic stimuli. Combining cerebral functional gradient, vascular features, and cognitive performance, the more compressive gradient in the resting-state, the worse vascular state, the lower cognitive function in older adults. Further modulation analysis demonstrated that both vascular features can regulate the relationship between gradient scores in the insula and behavior. Interestingly, systemic microvascular oxygenation also can modulate the relationship between cerebral gradient and cerebral perfusion. Furthermore, the less alteration of the compressive gradient with naturalistic stimuli came with lower cognitive function. Our findings demonstrated that the altered cerebral hierarchical functional structure in aging was linked with changed vascular features and behavior, offering a new framework for studying the physiological mechanism of functional connectivity in aging.
A New RP-HPLC Method for Simultaneous Determination of Amaroswerin, Amarogentin and Andrographolide in a Herbal Drug “Chirayata”
Authors: Sharma Yash Pal , Bhardwaj Chitralekha , Sharma Reena , Thakur Pancy , Sharma Rohit
Published: February 2022

Chirayata—the whole dried plant of Swertia chirayita—is an important traditional drug of Indian System of Medicines. A novel reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method has been developed for the simultaneous determination and quantification of amaroswerin, amarogentin and andrographolide in a herbal drug “Chirayata,” which is oftenly adulterated/substituted with herbal drug Kalmegh. The developed method is in accordance with International Council for Harmonization guidelines and is simple, precise, accurate, rapid, reproducible and specific to determine amarogentin, amaroswerin and andrographolide. Reverse-phase column (Water’s X-bridge C18, 5 μm, 4.6 mm × 250 mm) with high resolution for all marker compounds was used with binary gradient elution (methanol:water) with a flow rate of 1 mL/min and detection at 235 nm. The developed method showed good linearity (R2 > 0.999) in a relatively wider range of concentration 2.968–95.00 ppm for amarogentin, amaroswerin and 5.625–180 ppm for andrographolide. The method is important for quality control analysis of drug Chirayata.
Female Reproductive Factors and Incidence of Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Pulmonary Disease Among Postmenopausal Women in Korea
Authors: Choi Hayoung , Han Kyungdo , Yang Bumhee , Shin Dong Wook , Sohn Jang Won , Lee Hyun
Published: February 2022

Background

There are conflicting results regarding endogenous estrogen exposure and risk of incident nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD). In addition, evidence on impact of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) on risk of NTM-PD is lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the impacts of endogenous estrogen exposure and HRT on risk of NTM-PD in postmenopausal women.

Methods

This population-based cohort study comprised 1 400 095 postmenopausal women without previous NTM-PD who participated in the 2009 national health screening exam in South Korea. The cohort was followed until the date of incident NTM-PD, death, or December 2018. We evaluated whether lifetime endogenous estrogen exposure and HRT were associated with incident NTM-PD. Endogenous estrogen exposure was evaluated using age at menarche and menopause and reproductive period (duration between age at menarche and age at menopause).

Results

During a median of 8.4 (interquartile range, 8.2–8.7) years of follow-up, 0.1% of participants (1818/1 400 095) developed NTM-PD, with an incidence rate of 0.15/1000 person-years. Multivariable Cox regression analyses showed no significant relationship between endogenous estrogen exposure (age at menarche, age at menopause, and reproductive period) and risk of NTM-PD. In contrast, duration of HRT showed a significant dose–response relationship with incident NTM-PD even after adjustment for demographics and reproductive factors (adjusted hazard ratio [95% CI]: 1.30 [1.12–1.51] in HRT for <2 years; 1.28 [1.03–1.59] in 2–5 years; and 1.65 [1.33–2.05] in ≥5 years).

Conclusions

While there was no significant association with endogenous estrogen exposure, HRT was monotonically associated with increased risk of NTM-PD in postmenopausal women.
Exploring Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccine Hesitancy on Twitter Using Sentiment Analysis and Natural Language Processing Algorithms
Authors: Bari Anasse , Heymann Matthias , Cohen Ryan J , Zhao Robin , Szabo Levente , Apas Vasandani Shailesh , Khubchandani Aashish , DiLorenzo Madeline , Coffee Megan
Published: February 2022

Background

Vaccination can help control the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic but is undermined by vaccine hesitancy. Social media disseminates information and misinformation regarding vaccination. Tracking and analyzing social media vaccine sentiment could better prepare health professionals for vaccination conversations and campaigns.

Methods

A real-time big data analytics framework was developed using natural language processing sentiment analysis, a form of artificial intelligence. The framework ingests, processes, and analyzes tweets for sentiment and content themes, such as natural health or personal freedom, in real time. A later dataset evaluated the relationship between Twitter sentiment scores and vaccination rates in the United States.

Results

The real-time analytics framework showed a widening gap in sentiment with more negative sentiment after vaccine rollout. After rollout, using a static dataset, an increase in positive sentiment was followed by an increase in vaccination. Lag cross-correlation analysis across US regions showed evidence that once all adults were eligible for vaccination, the sentiment score consistently correlated with vaccination rate with a lag of around 1 week. The Granger causality test further demonstrated that tweet sentiment scores may help predict vaccination rates.

Conclusions

Social media has influenced the COVID-19 response through valuable information and misinformation and distrust. This tool was used to collect and analyze tweets at scale in real time to study sentiment and key terms of interest. Separate tweet analysis showed that vaccination rates tracked regionally with Twitter vaccine sentiment and might forecast changes in vaccine uptake and/or guide targeted social media and vaccination strategies. Further work is needed to analyze the interplay between specific populations, vaccine sentiment, and vaccination rates.
Evaluation of the impact of an intradialytic exercise programme on sarcopaenia in very elderly haemodialysis patients
Authors: Sánchez-Tocino Maria Luz , González-Parra Emilio , Miranda Serrano Blanca , Gracia-Iguacel Carolina , de-Alba-Peñaranda Ana María , López-González Antonio , García Olegario Marcos , Ortíz Alberto , Mas-Fontao Sebastian
Published: February 2022

Sarcopaenia is a highly prevalent condition in persons on haemodialysis (HD). In stable very elderly (75–95 years old) persons on chronic HD, we prospectively studied the European Working Group on Sarcopaenia in Older People (EWGSOP2) steps stability over time in 37 controls and their response to a 12-week intradialytic lower limb exercise programme in 23 persons. Overall dropout was 15% and the main cause for dropout was death (8%). Thus 33 controls and 18 exercise participants were evaluated at 12 weeks. In controls, comorbidity, nutrition, dependency and frailty scales, anthropometric assessments, EWGSOP2 step values and the prevalence of suspected, confirmed and severe sarcopaenia as assessed by EWGSOP2 remained stable. In contrast, in persons who completed the exercise programme, a significant improvement in the five times sit-to-stand (STS-5) test was noted at the end of the 12-week exercise programme (19.2 ± 4.9–15.9 ± 5.9 seconds; P = .001), consistent with the lower limb nature of the exercise programme, that persisted 12 weeks after completion of the programme. Exercise also improved the Fried frailty scale (1.7 ± 1.0–1.1 ± 0.6; P = .004). In conclusion, EWGSOP2 steps remain stable in stable very elderly persons on HD and STS-5 is responsive to a short-term intradialytic lower limb exercise programme. These results may help define EWGSOP2-based primary endpoints in future large-scale clinical trials assessing exercise interventions.
Clinical implications of left atrial reverse remodelling after cardiac resynchronization therapy
Authors: Stassen Jan , Galloo Xavier , Chimed Surenjav , Hirasawa Kensuke , Marsan Nina Ajmone , Delgado Victoria , van der Bijl Pieter , Bax Jeroen J
Published: February 2022

Aims

Left atrial (LA) function is a marker of prognosis in patients with heart failure. The prognostic implications of an improvement in LA function in addition to an improvement in left ventricular (LV) function after cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) implantation are unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of a significant change in LA reservoir strain (RS) and/or LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) after initiation of CRT.

Methods and results

LARS and LVGLS were measured with speckle-tracking echocardiography. Significant improvement in LARS and LVGLS was defined as a percentage change of +5% and +20% at 6 months after CRT implantation, respectively. Patients were divided into three groups: no significant reverse remodelling (no improvement in LARS and LVGLS), incomplete reverse remodelling (improvement in LARS or LVGLS), and complete reverse remodelling (improvement in LARS and LVGLS). The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality. A total of 923 patients (mean age 65 ± 10 years, 77% male) were included, of which 221 (24%) had complete reverse remodelling, 414 (45%) incomplete reverse remodelling, and 288 (31%) no significant reverse remodelling. Five-years’ mortality was 24%, 29%, and 36% for patients with complete, incomplete, and no significant reverse remodelling, respectively (P < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, complete reverse remodelling (hazard ratio 0.477; 95% confidence interval: 0.362–0.628; P < 0.001) was associated with the lowest risk of mortality.

Conclusions

Patients with complete reverse remodelling have a lower mortality risk than those showing incomplete or no significant reverse remodelling. The use of integrated LA and LV deformation imaging may improve risk-stratification of CRT recipients.
Intraoperative echocardiographic assessment of mitral valve translocation
Authors: Strauss Erik R , Quinn Rachael W , Pasrija Chetan , Henderson Reney , Holmes Sari D , D’Ambra Michael N , Gammie James S
Published: February 2022

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to present a rigorous method to analyse the intraoperative echocardiographic images from the novel mitral translocation procedure, which assesses the changes in mitral structure and function and compares this data to a control group of patients who have no mitral regurgitation (MR).

METHODS

Transoesophageal echocardiography was post-processed using dedicated 3D software. Ten patients with normal mitral valves (MV) undergoing non-mitral cardiac surgery served as controls. Mitral coaptation area, mid-leaflet coaptation length and mitral annular circumference were measured in 3D.

RESULTS

Twenty-three consecutive patients with severe secondary MR underwent MV translocation. All patients had none/trace MR post-translocation. The mean coaptation surface area increased from 63 to 427 mm2 (P < 0.001) and coaptation length increased from 1.0 to 10.5 mm (P < 0.001). The control group coaptation surface area (136 mm2) and length (2.5 mm) were greater than pre-translocation (P = 0.019; P < 0.001) and less than post-translocation (P < 0.001; P < 0.001). 3D mitral annular circumference in the translocation group decreased 15% (130–110 mm) (P < 0.001). Post-translocation, the mean gradient was 2(2–3) mmHg with the diastolic mitral orifice area of 3.4 ± 0.3 cm2 by planimetry and 3.5 ± 0.3 cm2 by pressure half-time. The coaptation to septum distance remained unchanged (P = 0.305) without systolic anterior leaflet motion.

CONCLUSIONS

This echocardiographic analysis method demonstrates that MV translocation abolishes secondary MR, increases coaptation area and length and produces acceptable diastolic function. This method of analysis should allow precise structural and quantitative assessment of the durability of the repair in future long-term follow-up.
Effect of different Alnus taxa on abundance and diversity of introduced and indigenous Frankia in soils and root nodules
Authors: Vemulapally Spandana , Guerra Trina , Hahn Dittmar
Published: February 2022

The effect of host plants on the abundance and distribution of introduced and indigenous Frankia populations was assessed in soils and root nodules of four alder species, Alnus glutinosa,Alnus cordata,Alnus rubra and Alnus viridis. Plants were grown in microcosms with either a sandy soil without detectable frankiae, with or without inoculation of a mixture of Frankia isolates, or a silty clay loam soil with indigenous Frankia. The presence of frankiae in soils increased plant height and root nodule formation, with significant increases in the presence of indigenous frankiae. Abundance in soils increased significantly for both introduced and indigenous Frankia populations independent of alder species, with generally largest increases in cluster 1b frankiae. Root nodules formed by introduced frankiae did not reflect the diversity of strains inoculated, with nodules generally only formed by strain ArI3 representing cluster 1a/d. All indigenous Frankia populations detected in soil were also found in A. glutinosa nodules, while A. cordata or A. rubra nodules contained different subsets of frankiae with unique abundances dependent on plant species. These results demonstrate the intrageneric differences of host plants in the selection of specific Frankia populations in soils for root nodule formation.
Exploring Interrelations Between Person-Centered Care and Quality of Life Following a Transition Into Long-Term Residential Care: A Meta-Ethnography
Authors: Davies Megan , Zúñiga Franziska , Verbeek Hilde , Simon Michael , Staudacher Sandra
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives

Globally, a culture change in long-term residential care (LTRC) moving toward person-centered care (PCC) has occurred in an attempt to improve resident quality of life (QoL). However, a clear understanding of how different aspects contributing to a PCC approach are interrelated with resident QoL is still lacking. This review explores interrelating aspects between PCC and QoL in LTRC using qualitative synthesis.

Research Design and Methods

Ten relevant primary studies were identified from a search of interdisciplinary research databases providing qualitative information. Studies were critically reviewed for key themes and concepts by the research team. We used a meta-ethnography approach to inductively interpret findings across multiple studies and reinterpreted the information using a constructivist approach.

Results

We identified 5 second-order constructs sharing commonalities suggesting interrelations between PCC and QoL: (a) maintaining dignity, autonomy, and independence; (b) knowing the whole person; (c) creating a “homelike” environment; (d) establishing a caring culture; and (e) integrating families and nurturing internal and external relationships. Synthesis translation led to the following third-order constructs: (a) personalizing care within routines, (b) optimizing resident environments, and (c) giving residents a voice.

Discussion and Implications

There are many interrelating aspects of PCC and QoL following a permanent transition into LTRC, but successful implementation of PCC, which enhances QoL, presents challenges due to organizational routines and constraints. However, by prioritizing resident voices to include their needs and preferences in care, QoL can be supported following a transition into LTRC.
Clarifying Assumptions About Artificial Intelligence Before Revolutionising Patent Law
Authors: Kim Daria , Alber Maximilian , Kwok Man Wai , MitroviĆ Jelena , Ramirez-Atencia Cristian , PÉrez JesÚs Alberto RodrÍguez , Zille Heiner
Published: February 2022

This paper examines several widespread assumptions about artificial intelligence, particularly machine learning, that are often taken as factual premises in discussions on the future of patent law in the wake of ‘artificial ingenuity’. The objective is to draw a more realistic and nuanced picture of the human-computer interaction in solving technical problems than where ‘intelligent’ systems autonomously yield inventions. A detailed technical perspective is presented for each assumption, followed by a discussion of pertinent uncertainties for patent law. Overall, it is argued that implications of machine learning for the patent system in its core tenets appear far less revolutionary than is often posited.
Communicating risk to promote colorectal cancer screening: a multi-method study to test tailored versus targeted message strategies
Authors: Neil Jordan M , Parker Naomi D , Levites Strekalova Yulia A , Duke Kyle , George Thomas , Krieger Janice L
Published: February 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening rates are suboptimal, partly due to poor communication about CRC risk. More effective methods are needed to educate patients, but little research has examined best practices for communicating CRC risk. This multi-method study tests whether tailoring CRC risk information increases screening intentions. Participants (N = 738) were randomized with a 2:2:1 allocation to tailored, targeted, and control message conditions. The primary outcome was intention to screen for CRC (yes/no). Additional variables include perceived message relevance, perceived susceptibility to CRC, and free-text comments evaluating the intervention. A chi-square test determined differences in the proportion of participants who intended to complete CRC screening by condition. A logistic-based path analysis explored mediation. Free-text comments were analyzed using advanced topic modeling analysis. CRC screening intentions were highest in the tailored intervention and significantly greater than control (P = 0.006). The tailored message condition significantly increased message relevance compared with control (P = 0.027) and targeted conditions (P = 0.002). The tailored condition also increased susceptibility (P < 0.001) compared with control, which mediated the relationship between the tailored condition and intention to screen (b = 0.04, SE = 0.02, 95% confidence interval = 0.02, 0.09). The qualitative data reflect similar trends. The theoretical mechanisms and practical implications of tailoring health education materials about CRC risk are discussed.
Work Status Reduction and Cost-Related Nonadherence during Cancer Treatment
Authors: Doherty Meredith , Finik Jackie , Blinder Victoria
Published: February 2022

Many cancer patients experience a reduction in work status during cancer treatment. Authors analyzed cross-sectional survey data from U.S. cancer patients and survivors to examine the relationship between reduced work status and cost-related nonadherence, defined as skipping or forgoing medical treatments or medications due to cost. Of 381 respondents who were working at the time of diagnosis, 143 reported a reduction in work status during treatment. Age, racial identity, level of education, and treatment type were associated with reductions in work status. Respondents who reduced work status had higher odds of engaging in cost-related nonadherence than those with stable employment. Authors conclude that reduced work status is associated with nonadherence that can undermine treatment benefit and lead to disease progression. This association is troubling given that African American respondents were more likely to report reduced work status during treatment, potentially exacerbating existing cancer health disparities. To reduce treatment nonadherence, social workers should assess for potential employment problems and be prepared to intervene through counseling, community resource referrals, and direct financial assistance. Social workers should be aware of how structural racism is reproduced through inequitable labor policies and practices that have direct implications for health and access to care.
Sex Differences in Responses to Antidepressant Augmentations in Treatment-Resistant Depression
Authors: Moderie Christophe , Nuñez Nicolas , Fielding Allan , Comai Stefano , Gobbi Gabriella
Published: February 2022

Background

Women are nearly twice as likely as men to suffer from major depressive disorder. Yet, there is a dearth of studies comparing the clinical outcomes of women and men with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) treated with similar augmentation strategies. We aimed to evaluate the effects of the augmentation strategies in women and men at the McGill University Health Center.

Methods

We reviewed health records of 76 patients (42 women, 34 men) with TRD, treated with augmentation strategies including antidepressants (AD) with mood stabilizers (AD+MS), antipsychotics (AD+AP), or in combination (AD+AP+MS). Clinical outcomes were determined by comparing changes on the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17), Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology (QIDS-C16), and Clinical Global Impression rating scale (CGI-S) at the beginning and after 3 months of an unchanged treatment. Changes in individual items of the HAMD-17 were also compared between the groups.

Results

Women and men improved from beginning to 3 months on all scales (P < .001, η p2 ≥ 0.68). There was also a significant sex × time interaction for all scales (P < .05, η p2 ≥ 0.06), reflecting a greater improvement in women compared with men. Specifically, women exhibited greater improvement in early (P = .03, η p2 = 0.08) and middle-of-the-night insomnia (P = .01, η p2 = 0.09) as well as psychomotor retardation (P < .001 η p2 = 0.16) and psychic (P = .02, η p2 = 0.07) and somatic anxiety (P = .01, η p2 = 0.10).

Conclusions

The combination of AD+AP/MS generates a significantly greater clinical response in women compared with men with TRD, supporting the existence of distinct pharmacological profiles between sexes in our sample. Moreover, they emphasize the benefit of augmentation strategies in women, underscoring the benefit of addressing symptoms such as insomnia and anxiety with AP and MS.
Should ‘Gender Critical’ Views about Trans People Be Protected as Philosophical Beliefs in the Workplace? Lessons for the Future from Forstater, Mackereth and Higgs
Authors: Cowan Sharon , Morris Sean
Published: February 2022

Some Employment Tribunal claims brought under the Equality Act 2010 (EqA) involve situations where a person’s protection from discrimination on the grounds of a protected characteristic—such as sex, sexual orientation or gender reassignment—comes into conflict with the rights of others, such as, for example, the right to freedom of expression or the right to manifest religion or belief under the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR), or the protection from discrimination on the ground of religious or philosophical belief under the EqA itself. This article provides a critical account of the application of discrimination law in the recent cases of Forstater, Mackereth and Higgs, looking in particular at the application of the Grainger criteria, as well as relevant human rights provisions. Specifically, we offer an analysis of recent cases where claimants have alleged unlawful discrimination relating to ‘gender critical’ views about transgender people (and sex/gender more broadly), which they argue constitute protected religious and/or philosophical beliefs. We argue that while it is necessary that the courts maintain a flexible approach when applying discrimination and human rights law, it is vital that coherent equality principles are applied consistently when reconciling and balancing conflicting rights. This is particularly important in the context of discrimination and human rights, where there is an ongoing debate about the extent to which trans peoples’ rights are adequately protected and whether protecting such rights infringes the rights of others.
Antibiotic use during pregnancy and the risk of preterm birth: a population-based Swedish cohort study
Authors: Nguyen M H , Fornes R , Kamau N , Danielsson H , Callens S , Fransson E , Engstrand L , Bruyndonckx R , Brusselaers N.
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To assess the impact of gestational antibiotics on the risk of preterm birth, since a healthy maternal microbiome may be protective.

Methods

Population-based cohort study including all first pregnancies in Sweden (2006–16). The association between gestational and recent pre-conception systemic antibiotics and preterm birth was assessed by multivariable logistic regression presented as ORs and 95% CIs, adjusted for comorbidities (hypo- and hyperthyroidism, hypertension, or diabetes mellitus pre-gestation), trimester, antibiotic class and treatment duration.

Results

Compared with non-users, antibiotic exposure was associated with increased risks of preterm birth in mothers with comorbidities (OR = 1.32, 95% CI 1.18–1.48) and without (OR = 1.09, 95% CI 1.06–1.13). Pre-conception use showed no association, while risk was increased for first and second trimester use and decreased for third trimester use. The increased risks were seen for the following antibiotic groups in mothers without and with comorbidities, respectively: macrolides, lincosamides and streptogramins (OR = 1.63, 95% CI 1.45–1.83; OR = 2.48, 95% CI 1.72–3.56); quinolones (OR = 1.60, 95% CI 1.32–1.94; OR = 2.11, 95% CI 1.12–4.03); non-penicillin β-lactams (OR = 1.15, 95% CI 1.07–1.24; OR = 1.39, 95% CI 1.07–1.83); other antibacterials (OR = 1.09, 95% CI 1.03–1.14; 1.38, 95% CI 1.16–1.63); and penicillins (OR = 1.04, 95% CI 1.01–1.08; 1.23, 95% CI 1.09–1.40). Antibiotic indications were not available, which could also affect preterm birth.

Conclusions

Antibiotic use during pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, especially in mothers with chronic diseases.
Clinical practice guidelines for the care of psychologically distressed bereaved families who have lost members to physical illness including cancer
Authors: Akechi Tatsuo , Kubota Yosuke , Ohtake Yoichi , Setou Noriko , Fujimori Maiko , Takeuchi Emi , Kurata Akiko , Okamura Masako , Hasuo Hideaki , Sakamoto Ryo , Miyamoto Seraki , Asai Mariko , Shinozaki Kumiko , Onishi Hideki , Shinomiya Toshiaki , Okuyama Toru , Sakaguchi Yukihiro , Matsuoka Hiromichi
Published: February 2022

The Japanese Psycho-Oncology Society and the Japanese Association of Supportive Care in Cancer developed evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for the care of psychologically distressed bereaved families who have lost members to physical illness including cancer. The guideline development group formulated two clinical questions. A systematic literature review was conducted. The level of evidence and the strength of the recommendations were graded and recommendation statements validated using the modified Delphi method. The recommendations were as follows: non-pharmacological interventions were indicated for serious psychological distress (depression and grief); antidepressants were indicated for depression; however, psychotropic medications including antidepressants were not recommended for ‘complicated’ grief. These guidelines will facilitate the provision of appropriate care to distressed bereaved family members and highlight areas where further research is needed.
Parental Perception of Child Vulnerability in Parents of Young Children
Authors: Gordo Leire , Iriarte Elejalde Leire , Martínez-Pampliega Ana
Published: February 2022

Objective

Parental perception that one’s child may be vulnerable to a threatening illness appears to be negatively associated with the child's socioemotional development. However, there are no studies that have analyzed the association of these dysfunctional parental perceptions on the emotional development of children who have not suffered a previous serious illness. The main objective of the present study was to study the relationship between parental perception of child vulnerability (PPCV) and children's socioemotional development, hypothesizing that PPCV is associated both directly and indirectly with children's socioemotional development through parental reflective functioning and parental competence.

Methods

The study involved 433 mothers and 113 fathers of infants between 0 and 3 years.

Results

PPCV was negatively associated with children's socioemotional development. Likewise, PPCV was indirectly and positively related to children's socioemotional development through the dimension of Interest and Curiosity of parental reflective functioning and parental competence.

Conclusions

The literature has shown that parental dysfunctional perceptions about the health of their children can be negatively associated with children’s socioemotional development. However, if these concerns are associated with increased interest and curiosity about the mental states of the child, this may actually promote the child's socioemotional development.
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors of the sino-nasal tract: about an unusual case report
Authors: Boujida Ismail , Elouazzani Hafsa , Derqaoui Sabrine , Belghiti Hicham , Sayad Zahra , Boulaades Malik , Zouaidia Fouad , Cherradi Nadia
Published: February 2022

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors are defined as malignant tumors arising from or differentiating toward the cells of the peripheral nerve sheath. They occur in about 8–16% within the head and neck region. Morphologically, some malignant tumors look like malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors, particularly in the head and neck location; however, immunohistochemistry have a great contribution to distinguish between them. This case report is on a 45-year-old woman with a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor located in the sino-nasal tract.
Emphysematous epididymo-orchitis: imaging plays a vital part in active management: case report and literature review
Authors: Ilangovan Sanjana , Ghazanfar Noman , Chitale Sudhanshu
Published: February 2022

We hereby present a rare cause of acute scrotum secondary to emphysematous epididymo-orchitis (EEO). It is often not diagnosed until crepitus is palpable in the scrotal wall with spreading cellulitis, at which point it has reached an advanced stage. This case report details a 55-year-old man with poorly controlled diabetes who presented with an acute scrotum that failed to resolve with oral antibiotics in primary care. Following rapid detection of EEO on an early scrotal ultrasound scan, the patient had surgical debridement and a near-total orchidectomy with only a small stump of testis and tunica albuginea left behind. This case highlights the importance of timely imaging, particularly in diabetic men with an acute scrotum with a high clinical suspicion of intratesticular abscess. An incidental but significant finding of EEO would warrant early surgical intervention to prevent a catastrophic sequelae i.e. Fournier’s gangrene.
Reasoning about epistemic social network dynamics using dynamic term-modal logic
Authors: Occhipinti Liberman AndrÉs , Rendsvig Rasmus K
Published: February 2022

Logics for social networks have been studied in the recent literature. This paper presents a framework based on dynamic term-modal logic ($\textsf {DTML}$), a quantified variant of dynamic epistemic logic (DEL). In contrast with DEL where it is commonly known to whom agent names refer, $\textsf {DTML}$ can represent dynamics with uncertainty about agent identity. We exemplify dynamics where such uncertainty and de re/de dicto distinctions are key to social network epistemics. Technically, we show that $\textsf {DTML}$ semantics can represent a popular class of hybrid logic epistemic social network models. We also show that $\textsf {DTML}$ can encode previously discussed dynamics for which finding a complete logic was left open. As complete reduction axioms systems exist for $\textsf {DTML}$, this yields a complete system for the dynamics in question.
Sensitive Chandra coverage of a representative sample of weak-line quasars: revealing the full range of X-ray properties
Authors: Ni Q , Brandt W N , Luo B , Garmire G P , Hall P B , Plotkin R M , Shemmer O , Timlin J D , Vito F , Wu J , Yi W
Published: February 2022

We present deeper Chandra observations for weak-line quasars (WLQs) in a representative sample that previously had limited X-ray constraints, and perform X-ray photometric analyses to reveal the full range of X-ray properties of WLQs. Only 5 of the 32 WLQs included in this representative sample remain X-ray undetected after these observations, and a stacking analysis shows that these 5 have an average X-ray weakness factor of >85. One of the WLQs in the sample that was known to have extreme X-ray variability, SDSS J1539+3954, exhibited dramatic X-ray variability again: it changed from an X-ray normal state to an X-ray weak state within ≈3 months in the rest frame. This short time-scale for an X-ray flux variation by a factor of ≳9 further supports the thick disc and outflow (TDO) model proposed to explain the X-ray and multiwavelength properties of WLQs. The overall distribution of the X-ray-to-optical properties of WLQs suggests that the TDO has an average covering factor of the X-ray emitting region of ∼0.5, and the column density of the TDO can range from $N_{\rm H}\, \sim 10^{23-24}~{\rm cm}^{-2}$ to $N_{\rm H}\, \gtrsim 10^{24}~{\rm cm}^{-2}$, which leads to different levels of absorption and Compton reflection (and/or scattering) among WLQs.
A very low central oxygen mass in the peculiar type Ia SN 2010lp: further diversity at the low-luminosity end of SNe Ia
Authors: Mazzali P A , Benetti S , Stritzinger M , Ashall C
Published: February 2022

A nebular spectrum of the peculiar, low-luminosity type Ia supernova 2010lp is modelled in order to estimate the composition of the inner ejecta and to illuminate the nature of this event. Despite having a normally declining light curve, SN 2010lp was similar spectroscopically to SN 1991bg at early times. However, it showed a very unusual double-peaked [O i] $\lambda \lambda \, 6300,6363$ emission at late times (Taubenberger et al.). Modelling of the nebular spectrum suggests that a very small amount of oxygen (∼0.05 M⊙), expanding at very low speed (≲ 2000 km s−1) is sufficient to reproduce the observed emission. The rest of the nebula is not too dissimilar from SN 1991bg, except that SN 2010lp is slightly more luminous. The double-peaked [O i] emission suggests that SN 2010lp may be consistent with the merger or collision of two low-mass white dwarfs. The low end of the SN Ia luminosity sequence is clearly populated by diverse events, where different channels may contribute.
Observationally driven Galactic double white dwarf population for LISA
Authors: Korol Valeriya , Hallakoun Na’ama , Toonen Silvia , Karnesis Nikolaos
Published: February 2022

Realistic models of the Galactic double white dwarf (DWD) population are crucial for testing and quantitatively defining the science objectives of the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA), a future European Space Agency’s gravitational-wave observatory. In addition to numerous individually detectable DWDs, LISA will also detect an unresolved confusion foreground produced by the underlying Galactic population, which will affect the detectability of all LISA sources at frequencies below a few mHz. So far, the modelling of the DWD population for LISA has been based on binary population synthesis (BPS) techniques. The aim of this study is to construct an observationally driven population. To achieve this, we employ a model developed by Maoz, Hallakoun & Badenes for the statistical analysis of the local DWD population using two complementary large, multi-epoch, spectroscopic samples: the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, and the Supernova Ia Progenitor surveY. We calculate the number of LISA-detectable DWDs and the Galactic confusion foreground, based on their assumptions and results. We find that the observationally driven estimates yield (1) 2–5 times more individually detectable DWDs than various BPS forecasts, and (2) a significantly different shape of the DWD confusion foreground. Both results have important implications for the LISA mission. A comparison between several variations to our underlying assumptions shows that our observationally driven model is robust, and that the uncertainty on the total number of LISA-detectable DWDs is in the order of 20 per cent.