bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
No evidence of age‐related decline in propagated Acer pseudoplatanus and Fraxinus excelsior plants
Authors: Zheng Tong , Mencuccini Maurizio , Abdul‐Hamid Hazandy
Published: April 2023

Although a substantial body of evidence suggests that large and old trees have reduced metabolic levels, the search for the causes behind this observation has proved elusive. The strong coupling between age and size, commonly encountered in the field, precludes the isolation of the potential causes. We used standard propagation techniques (grafting and air‐layering) to decouple the effects of size from those of age in affecting leaf structure, biochemistry and physiology of two broadleaved trees, Acer pseudoplatanus (a diffuse‐porous species) and Fraxinus excelsior (a ring‐porous species). The first year after establishment of the propagated plants, some of the measurements suggested the presence of age‐related declines in metabolism, while other measurements either did not show any difference or suggested variability across treatments not associated with either age or size. During the second year after establishment, only one of the measured properties (specific leaf area) continued to show some evidence of an age‐mediated decline (although much reduced compared to the field), whereas, for some properties (particularly for F. excelsior), even the opposite trend of age‐related increases was apparent. We concluded that (1) our plants suffered from grafting shock during year 1 and they gradually recovered during year 2; (2) the results over 2 years do not support the statement that age directly mediates ageing in either species but instead suggest that size directly mediates ageing processes; and (3) neither shoots nor roots of A. pseudoplatanus showed any evidence of senescence.
More Than an Opioid Crisis: Population Health and Economic Indicators Influencing Deaths of Despair
Authors: Dalphonse Lee , Campbell David A. , Kerr Bernard J. , Kerr Jessica L. , Gadbois Christine
Published: April 2023

Using a pooled cross‐section regression, the study analyzes state‐level data on deaths of despair as a function of population health, economic, and demographic indicators identified in the academic literature. There is an urgent need to identify and address factors associated with suicides and deaths attributed to the use of alcohol, opioids, and other drugs and referred to as deaths of despair. According to provisional death data posted on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website, in the 12‐months preceding April 30, 2021, drug overdose deaths increased 28.5 percent compared to the previous year, and alcohol‐related deaths rose 34 percent from pre‐pandemic levels. These recent increases in death rates are in addition to the rise in suicides and deaths attributable to the use of alcohol, opioids, and other drugs over the past decade. Given the complex, interactive, and synergistic nature of deaths of despair, an approach that incorporates perspectives from public health, economics, and sociology could prove advantageous.
The role of long‐distance mobile metabolites in the plant stress response and signaling
Authors: Cai Jianghua , Li Dongqi , Aharoni Asaph
Published: April 2023

Plants developed sophisticated mechanisms to perceive environmental stimuli and generate appropriate signals to maintain optimal growth and stress responses. A fascinating strategy employed by plants is the use of long‐distance mobile signals which can trigger local and distant responses across the entire plant. Some metabolites play a central role as long‐distance mobile signals allowing plants to communicate across tissues and mount robust stress responses. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the various long‐distance mobile metabolites and their functions in stress response and signaling pathways. We also raise questions with respect to how we can identify new mobile metabolites and engineer them to improve plant health and resilience.
A natural non‐synonymous single nucleotide polymorphism in GmbHLH113 negates its inhibitory effect on root hair elongation in soybean
Authors: Duan Shaowei , Li Man‐Wah , Niu Yongchao , Huang Cheng , Hang Jiayi , Shi Da , Man Chun‐Kuen , Chow Martha L. , Wong Fuk‐Ling , Chung Gyuhwa , Lam Hon‐Ming
Published: April 2023

Root hair length (RHL) is an important character that affects nutrient acquisition in plants. The regulatory network in soybean controlling RHL is yet to be fully understood. In this study, we identified a quantitative trait locus (QTL) regulating RHL. One candidate causal gene in this QTL (GmbHLH113), preferentially expressed in root hairs, was annotated as encoding a basic helix–loop–helix transcription factor. In wild soybeans, the allelic type of GmbHLH113 with a glycine in the 13th residue, which was associated with a reduction in RHL, was shown to localize in the nucleus and activate gene transcription. Another allelic type with a single nucleotide polymorphism that resulted in a glutamate in the 13th residue is fixed in cultivated soybeans, and it lost the ability to localize to the nucleus or negatively regulate RHL. The ectopic expression of GmbHLH113 from W05 in Arabidopsis root hairs resulted in shorter RHL and reduced phosphorus (P) accumulation in shoots. Hence, a loss‐of‐function allele in cultivated soybeans might have been selected during domestication due to its association with a longer RHL and improved nutrient acquisition.
Retrospective evaluation of noncardiogenic pulmonary edema in dogs and cats (2000–2021): 31 cases
Authors: Nemi Jacqueline R. , Hopper Kate , Epstein Steven E.
Published: April 2023

Objective

To characterize the clinical features of noncardiogenic pulmonary edema (NCPE), etiology, and outcome in dogs and cats. The study also aimed to evaluate associations with mortality.

Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Animals

Thirty dogs and 1 cat, all client owned.

Interventions

None.

Measurements and Main Results

Data collected included animal characteristics, clinical history, evaluation of oxygenation, radiographic features, treatments, and outcomes. Causes of NCPE included upper airway obstruction, electrocution, drowning, neurogenic etiology, and unknown. The etiology was known in 21 of 31 cases (68%), while the etiology of the remaining 10 cases (32%) was classified as unknown. The most common cause for NCPE was upper airway obstruction, found in 14 of 31 cases (45%). The majority of thoracic radiographs showed a mixed interstitial‐to‐alveolar pulmonary pattern with a diffuse distribution (52%). Oxygen therapy was administered to 27 dogs (90%). Furosemide was administered to 12 dogs (40%). The median duration of hospitalization was 48 hours (range: 1–192). Twenty‐three animals (74%) survived to discharge. Six dogs were mechanically ventilated, with only 2 of them (33%) surviving to discharge. The requirement for mechanical ventilation was the only parameter associated with mortality (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

NCPE is a heterogenous disease process that is most common in dogs. There are a variety of causes, but upper airway obstruction appears to be the most common. The overall prognosis is good in animals that do not require mechanical ventilation.
Challenges and alternatives for unmanned underwater vehicular research in the Amazon basin: Towards a more sustainable management of water resources and the environment
Authors: Fontes Jassiel V. H. , da Silva Eliana Brandão , Silva Rodolfo , Amiri Mojtaba Maali , Mendoza Edgar , Maia Harlysson W. S. , Hernández Irving D.
Published: April 2023

The Amazon basin is one of the largest hydrographic systems in the world, possessing a great diversity of natural resources in need of more sustainable water and environmental management. However, as much of what lies beneath the surface of Amazonian waters is still unexplored, underwater exploration technologies are seen as a means of research and monitoring. The present work therefore aims to answer two research questions: What are the current technologies that could be implemented for unmanned underwater research in the Amazon waters? What are the main limitations and existing alternatives for using unmanned underwater vehicles in the rivers of this region to provide more sustainable water and environment management? Our results demonstrate that remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) are possible options in the short and long terms, respectively. The main challenges in implementing these technologies are related to the variations in hydraulic geometry, current velocities and turbidity of the rivers, as well as the preservation of the region's biodiversity. This research can be taken as a starting point for planners and decision makers seeking more sustainable underwater and environmental exploration of the Amazon river system.
El bienestar de la vivienda en las ciudades. El caso del istmo de Tehuantepec, Oaxaca
Authors: Miguel Velasco Andrés Enrique , Santamaría Cruz Erendira Isaura , García Cruz Lizbeth Fabiola , Romero Rodríguez Karina
Published: April 2023

Se estudia la vivienda adecuada, sustentable y saludable en once ciudades del istmo de Tehuantepec oaxaqueño mayores a 15 000 habitantes, pues sus espacios familiares y colectivos requieren atención. Objetivo: analizar el bienestar de la vivienda en las ciudades del istmo de Tehuantepec. Hipótesis: las viviendas proporcionan un alto nivel de bienestar, favoreciendo el desarrollo sustentable de las ciudades de la región. Metodología: combina el análisis FODA con el análisis cuantitativo estadístico y de redes de índices con información documental. Resultados: la vivienda se asocia estadísticamente fuerte con el desarrollo sustentable, sus fortalezas predominan sobre sus debilidades en las pequeñas, medianas y grandes ciudades, pero muestran un bajo nivel de bienestar y el nivel de desarrollo sustentable alcanzado en las ciudades es bajo. Conclusiones: existe alta vulnerabilidad derivada de la vivienda para la población; todas las ciudades del istmo de Tehuantepec requieren de apoyos para fortalecerla en todas sus dimensiones
Time Decay in the Performance Benefits From Repeated-Sprint Training in Hypoxia in World-Class Short-Track Speed Skaters
Authors: Deguire Simon , Billaut François , Bieuzen François
Published: April 2023

Purpose: In short-track speed skating, athletes need to possess specific physiological capabilities to perform explosive starts and to finish races with faster lap times than their opponents. Repeated-sprint training in hypoxia (RSH) can enhance repeated-sprint ability and high-intensity performance. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between on- and off-ice performance indicators for training and testing purposes and how these are optimized with RSH in world-class short-track speed skaters including world and Olympic champions. Methods: RSH training was administered for 3 consecutive weeks, 3 times per week, at 3500 m of simulated altitude. Testing sessions (on-ice: 3-lap, 27-lap; off-ice: cycling incremental test, 7-s and 30-s Wingate) were performed immediately before and 2 and 4 weeks after RSH to determine the time course of decay. Results: On-ice top speed showed a small and possibly beneficial change of ∼0.9% for the women and large and almost certain ∼0.7% improvement for the men 2 weeks post-RSH. Cycling peak power showed a moderate and probable ∼5.4% improvement for the men 2 weeks after RSH. These adaptations reverted to baseline 4 weeks post-RSH. Wingate average power showed a small and possibly beneficial gain (∼3.4%) in performance 4 weeks post-RSH. Conclusion: Although scientific controls could not be added due to the extremely high caliber of these athletes and low sample size of the national team, this study suggests that cycling RSH can be added immediately after on-ice training and can transfer into meaningful improvements on the ice in both male and female skaters.
Can You Tell Who Scores? An Assessment of the Recognition of Affective States Based on the Nonverbal Behavior of Amateur Tennis Players in Competitive Matches
Authors: Fritsch Julian , Seiler Kirstin , Wagner Matthias , Englert Chris , Jekauc Darko
Published: April 2023

The purpose of the present study was to assess whether the recognition of tennis players’ affective state associated with their nonverbal behavior would be influenced by (a) the importance of the situation, (b) the point outcome, and (c) the tennis expertise of the observer. Two hundred sixty-nine participants (Mage = 30.51 years; 116 female; 79 tennis club members) watched video excerpts showing the nonverbal behavior of amateur tennis players during competitive matches immediately after the end of a rally and were asked to estimate whether the player had just won or lost the point. Results indicate that the recognition rates were higher for situations closer to the end of a game, closer to the end of a set, and with a tighter score during a game. Moreover, recognition rates were higher for lost than for won points, while the tennis expertise of participants had no influence on the recognition rates.
DEAD box RNA helicases act as nucleotide exchange factors for casein kinase 2
Authors: Fatti Edoardo , Hirth Alexander , Švorinić Andrea , Günther Matthias , Stier Gunter , Cruciat Cristina-Maria , Acebrón Sergio P. , Papageorgiou Dimitris , Sinning Irmgard , Krijgsveld Jeroen , Höfer Thomas , Niehrs Christof
Published: April 2023

DDX RNA helicases promote RNA processing, but DDX3X also activates casein kinase 1 (CK1ε). We show that other DDX proteins also stimulate the protein kinase activity of CK1ε and that this extends to casein kinase 2 (CK2). CK2 enzymatic activity was stimulated by various DDX proteins at high substrate concentrations. DDX1, DDX24, DDX41, and DDX54 were required for full kinase activity in vitro and inXenopusembryos. Mutational analysis of DDX3X indicated that CK1 and CK2 kinase stimulation engages its RNA binding but not catalytic motifs. Mathematical modeling of enzyme kinetics and stopped-flow spectroscopy showed that DDX proteins function as nucleotide exchange factors toward CK2 and reduce unproductive reaction intermediates and substrate inhibition. Our study reveals protein kinase stimulation by nucleotide exchange as important for kinase regulation and as a generic function of DDX proteins.
Metabolically fitter with fibronectin
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: April 2023

Activation of hepatic autophagy by skeletal muscle–secreted fibronectin underlies the metabolic benefits of exercise.
Interplay between Furin and Sialoglycans in Modulating Adeno-Associated Viral Cell Entry
Authors: Smith Timothy J. , Fusco Robert M. , Elmore Zachary C. , Asokan Aravind
Published: April 2023

Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are a proven recombinant vector platform for gene therapy and have demonstrated success in the clinic. Continuing to improve our knowledge of AAV-host cell interactions is critical for improving the safety and efficacy.
A Highly Substituted Ring-Fused 2-Pyridone Compound Targeting PrfA and the Efflux Regulator BrtA in Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Tükenmez Hasan , Singh Pardeep , Sarkar Souvik , Çakır Melike , Oliveira Ana H. , Lindgren Cecilia , Vaitkevicius Karolis , Bonde Mari , Sauer-Eriksson A. Elisabeth , Almqvist Fredrik , Johansson Jörgen
Published: April 2023

Bacteria resistant to one or several antibiotics are a very large problem, threatening not only treatment of infections but also surgery and cancer treatments. Thus, new types of antibacterial drugs are desperately needed.
Insertion Sequences Determine Plasmid Adaptation to New Bacterial Hosts
Authors: Wedel Emilia , Bernabe-Balas Cristina , Ares-Arroyo Manuel , Montero Natalia , Santos-Lopez Alfonso , Mazel Didier , Gonzalez-Zorn Bruno
Published: April 2023

ColE1-like plasmids are small, mobilizable plasmids that can be found across at least four orders of
Gammaproteobacteria
and are strongly associated with antimicrobial resistance genes. Plasmid pB1000 carries the gene
bla
ROB-1
, conferring high-level resistance to penicillins and cefaclor. pB1000 has been described in various species of the family
Pasteurellaceae
, for example, in
Haemophilus influenzae
, which can cause diseases such as otitis media, meningitis, and pneumonia.
Persistent Coxsackievirus B3 Infection in Pancreatic Ductal Cells
In Vitro
Downregulates Cellular Polyamine Metabolism
Authors: Mastrodomenico Vincent , LoMascolo Natalie J. , Firpo Mason R. , Villanueva Guzman Maria del Mar , Zaporowski Adam , Mounce Bryan C.
Published: April 2023

Enteroviruses are significant human pathogens that can cause severe disease, including cardiomyopathies. Viruses like coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) can cause tissue damage by lytically infecting cells; however, CVB3 can also persistently infect, which has been associated with several pathologies.
COVID-19 Antigen Results Correlate with the Quantity of Replication-Competent SARS-CoV-2 in a Cross-Sectional Study of Ambulatory Adults during the Delta Wave
Authors: Tu Yuan-Po , Green Christopher , Hao Linhui , Greninger Alexander L. , Morton Jennifer F. , Sights Heather A. , Gale Michael , Drain Paul K.
Published: April 2023

Do rapid antigen test results correlate with replication-competent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (i.e., infectious) virus? In this cross-sectional diagnostic study of 626 adults, the sensitivity of the antigen test to identify replication-competent SARS-CoV-2 was 63.6% in asymptomatic and 91.0% in symptomatic participants. Viral culture titers were the highest at the onset of symptoms and rapidly declined by 7 days after symptom onset.
High-Throughput Profiling of Candida auris Isolates Reveals Clade-Specific Metabolic Differences
Authors: Brandt Philipp , Mirhakkak Mohammad H. , Wagner Lysett , Driesch Dominik , Möslinger Anna , Fänder Pauline , Schäuble Sascha , Panagiotou Gianni , Vylkova Slavena
Published: April 2023

Four main clades of the emerging, multidrug-resistant human pathogen
Candida auris
have been identified, and they differ in their susceptibilities to antifungals and disinfectants. Moreover, clade- and strain-specific metabolic differences have been identified, but a comprehensive overview of nutritional characteristics and resistance to various stressors is missing.
Mechanical weakening of a mudrock seal by reaction with CO2-charged fluids
Authors: Busch Andreas , Hangx Suzanne , Vialle Stephanie , Rizzo Roberto Emanuele , Kampman Niko
Published: April 2023

The long-term interaction of CO2-charged fluids with low permeability cap rocks is important for seal integrity assessment. To address this potential risk, we studied long-term geomechanical changes in a reservoir seal due to fluid-rock interactions with CO2-charged fluids, focusing on a natural CO2 analogue near Green River, Utah, USA. The observed chemo-mechanical changes are on the millimeter scale, which required small-scale petrophysical, mineralogical, and micromechanical analyses. Results showed that over the 7 cm thick reaction front, the low permeability cap rock underwent mechanical weakening, as indicated by indentation tests. This weakening is inferred to be due to dissolution of dolomite and hematite, with the former leading to porosity decrease, as shown by small-angle neutron scattering, while the latter likely led to loss of electrostatic forces between the clay particles. This resulted in loss of cohesion, compaction, and formation of bedding-parallel fractures. Microfracturing occurred in situ, as evidenced by fractures infilled with pyrite and gypsum. This study demonstrates that mechanical weakening of cap rocks might occur, but only over time scales of ~100,000 yr and over small distances. Considering the thickness of cap rocks above CO2 storage reservoirs, we do not anticipate a considerable threat of losing containment integrity over time scales of hundreds to thousands of years as a result of these small-scale fluid-rock interactions.
Variant of subclavian steal syndrome: unusual anatomical relationship between left subclavian artery and left vertebral artery
Authors: McCluskey Mia , Baber Peter , Rind Shahmir , Xu Dan
Published: April 2023

A woman in her 70s presented to her general practitioner (GP) with a 3-month history of left upper arm pain and weakness. A significant difference in bilateral blood pressures was noted and a further history elicited coolness in her left arm without functional compromise. A CT angiography revealed variant subclavian steal syndrome with a subclavian arterial stenosis, which was proximal to both the internal mammary and thyrocervical trunk and her left vertebral artery originating from the aortic arch. She was referred to a vascular surgeon but declined surgical intervention. Her symptoms remain stable with 6-month follow-up from her GP. This case highlights the importance of considering vascular aetiologies in upper limb pain and weakness. Our case reviews the differential diagnoses of upper limb pain and weakness, consequently leading to the discussion of an interesting variant of subclavian stenosis.
Lessons learnt from a scientific peer-review training programme designed to support research capacity and professional development in a global community
Authors: Buser Julie M , Morris Kirby L , Millicent Dzomeku Veronica , Endale Tamrat , Smith Yolanda R , August Ella
Published: April 2023

High-quality peer-reviewer training open to researchers across the globe has the potential to improve the published literature, however, this type of training is not widely available. In this paper, we describe an online peer-reviewer training programme, highlight its effectiveness in building peer review and writing skills, and discuss challenges and lessons learnt. This training programme, open to researchers across the globe, acquaints participants with challenges to and inequities in publishing and educates them about writing effective peer reviews. A focal point is how to provide specific and respectful feedback to help authors get accepted for peer review at an academic journal. Forty-nine participants from or residing in six continents completed the training. All programme evaluation respondents agreed that the orientation helped them gain a better understanding of their role as a peer reviewer at Pre-Publication Support Service. Most agreed that the training was helpful in improving their peer-review skills, and that the training was helpful in improving their writing skills. Participants wanted more networking and collaboration opportunities with other peer reviewers, inclusion of a qualitatively researched example paper and improved communication about the required time commitment. Our online programme with multiple time options was geographically inclusive but internet connectivity was challenging for some participants. Peer-reviewer training programmes can help researchers build their peer review and writing skills and enhance participants’ understanding of disparities in publishing. Integrating a geographically diverse group of researchers has the potential to enrich the discussions and learning in such a programme.
Small interfering RNA (siRNA)-based therapeutics
Authors: Patterson Jacoby
Published: April 2023

In early studies in simple organisms and mammalian cell lines, small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules were found to allow experimental cleavage of intracellular messenger RNA (mRNA; the transcription product of a cell gene), reducing the levels of the proteins that would otherwise be formed by the action of the mRNA, thereby ‘silencing’ a specific gene. Researchers subsequently assessed the effects of this class of molecule in patients with various genetic conditions (eg, hereditary amyloidosis) that could benefit from reductions in the excessive quantities of harmful proteins (eg, amyloid). Due to the hydrophilic (non-fat-soluble) nature of the molecules, they have been formulated as lipid nanoparticles to aid transport into cells or conjugated to molecules with an ability to target certain cells in the body (eg, hepatocytes) to aid specificity of action. Their intracellular effects may last up to several months before they are broken down and inactivated. As they need to be composed of an exact complementary sequence to be able to cleave the target mRNA, they are thought to have few unwanted effects apart from infusion or injection site reactions. Several siRNA medicines have been licensed and many other products are in development for genetic hepatic, cardiovascular and ocular conditions.
Sex differences in clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients with cardiac sarcoidosis
Authors: Iso Takashi , Maeda Daichi , Matsue Yuya , Dotare Taishi , Sunayama Tsutomu , Yoshioka Kenji , Nabeta Takeru , Naruse Yoshihisa , Kitai Takeshi , Taniguchi Tatsunori , Tanaka Hidekazu , Okumura Takahiro , Baba Yuichi , Minamino Tohru
Published: April 2023

Objective

Owing to the paucity of data, this study aimed to investigate sex differences in clinical features and prognosis of patients with cardiac sarcoidosis (CS).

Methods

This study was a secondary analysis of the ILLUstration of the Management and prognosIs of JapaNese PATiEnts with Cardiac Sarcoidosis registry—a retrospective multicentre registry that enrolled patients with CS between 2001 and 2017. The primary outcome was potentially fatal ventricular arrhythmia events (pFVAEs)—a composite of sudden cardiac death, sustained ventricular tachycardia lasting >30 s, ventricular fibrillation or the requirement for implantable cardioverter defibrillator therapy.

Results

Of the 512 participants (mean age±SD 61.6±11.4 years), 329 (64.2%) were females. Both sexes had peak ages of 60–64 years at diagnosis. Male patients were younger and had a higher prevalence of coronary artery disease and lower left ventricular ejection fraction than female patients. During a median follow-up of 3 years (IQR 1.6–5.6), pFVAEs were observed in 99 patients, with males having a significantly higher risk than females (p=0.002). This association was retained even after adjustment for other risk factors for pFVAEs, including left ventricular ejection fraction (adjusted HR 1.80; 95% CI 1.08 to 3.01, p=0.025).

Conclusion

Approximately two-thirds of patients with CS were females, with a peak age of approximately 60 years at clinical diagnosis in both sexes; male patients were younger than female patients. Male patients had a significantly higher risk of pFVAEs than female patients.

Trial registration number

UMIN000034974.
Performances of the Idylla GeneFusion Assay: contribution to a rapid diagnosis of targetable gene fusions in tumour samples
Authors: Guillard Matthieu , Caumont Charline , Marcorelles Pascale , Merlio Jean-Philippe , Cappellen David , Uguen Arnaud
Published: April 2023

Aims

We aimed to evaluate the performances of the Idylla GeneFusion Assay (IGFA) designed to detect, in a single, rapid and fully automated assay,ALK,ROS1,RET,NTRK1,NTRK2andNTRK3gene fusions andMETexon 14 skipping in cancer samples.

Methods

Based on a set of tumours enriched in cases with gene fusions, we applied the IGFA to tumour areas of various sizes and tumour cell contents. IGFA results were compared with those obtained with other methods (immunohistochemistry, fluorescent in situ hybridisation, DNA and RNA next-generation sequencing).

Results

We selected 68 tumours: 49 cases with known gene fusions (8ALK, 8ROS1, 5RET, 7NTRK1, 3NTRK2and 6NTRK3ones) orMETexon 14 skipping mutations (12 cases) and 19 cases with no fusion and noMETmutation. We performed 128 IGFA tests on distinct tissue areas. The global sensitivity and specificity of the IGFA were, respectively, 62.82% and 99.2% with variations between molecular targets and tissue areas. Of note, 72.5% sensitivity and 98.79% specificity were obtained in 37 tissue areas fulfilling the manufacturer’s recommendations (ie, at least 10% of tumour cells in at least 20 mm² of tissue area). The rate of non-conclusive results was higher in small samples with low percentages of tumour cells.

Conclusions

The IGFA could contribute to the rapid detection of targetable gene fusions and mutations, especially in context of rapidly growing cancers requiring urgent therapeutic choices.
Antithrombotic regimen in emergent carotid stenting for acute ischemic stroke due to tandem occlusion: a meta-analysis of aggregate data
Authors: Diana Francesco , Abdalkader Mohamad , Behme Daniel , Li Wei , Maurer Christoph Johannes , Pop Raoul , Hwang Yang-Ha , Bartolini Bruno , Da Ros Valerio , Bracco Sandra , Cirillo Luigi , Marnat Gaultier , Katsanos Aristeidis H , Kaesmacher Johannes , Fischer Urs , Aguiar de Sousa Diana , Peschillo Simone , Zini Andrea , Tomasello Alejandro , Ribo Marc , Nguyen Thanh N , Romoli Michele
Published: April 2023

Background

The periprocedural antithrombotic regimen might affect the risk-benefit profile of emergent carotid artery stenting (eCAS) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) due to tandem lesions, especially after intravenous thrombolysis. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the safety and efficacy of antithrombotics following eCAS.

Methods

We followed PRISMA guidelines and searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus from January 1, 2004 to November 30, 2022 for studies evaluating eCAS in tandem occlusion. The primary endpoint was 90-day good functional outcome. Secondary outcomes were symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, in-stent thrombosis, delayed stent thrombosis, and successful recanalization. Meta-analysis of proportions and meta-analysis of odds ratios were implemented.

Results

34 studies with 1658 patients were included. We found that the use of no antiplatelets (noAPT), single antiplatelet (SAPT), dual antiplatelets (DAPT), or glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (GPI) yielded similar rates of good functional outcomes, with a marginal benefit of GPI over SAPT (OR 1.88, 95% CI 1.05 to 3.35, P
heterogeneity
=0.31). Sensitivity analysis and meta-regression excluded a significant impact of intravenous thrombolysis and Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS). We observed no increase in symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) with DAPT or GPI compared with noAPT or SAPT. We also found similar rates of delayed stent thrombosis across groups, with acute in-stent thrombosis showing marginal, non-significant benefits from GPI and DAPT over SAPT and noAPT.

Conclusions

In AIS due to tandem occlusion, the periprocedural antithrombotic regimen of eCAS seems to have a marginal effect on good functional outcome. Overall, high intensity antithrombotic therapy may provide a marginal benefit on good functional outcome and carotid stent patency without a significant increase in risk of sICH.
Submission of mandatory respiratory health examinations among US coal miners participating in the Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program
Authors: Hall Noemi B , Reynolds Laura , Blackley David J , Laney A Scott
Published: April 2023

Background

Mandatory examination requirements for US coal miners newly entering the workforce have been in place since the 1969 Coal Act mandated chest radiographs and were updated to include spirometry with promulgation of the 2014 Mine Safety and Health Administration Dust Rule. Compliance with the mandatory respiratory screening series is described using data from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program (CWHSP).

Methods

Among all radiographic and spirometry submissions to the CWHSP during 30 June 1971–15 March 2022, new underground coal miners who began work in the industry after 30 June 1971, and new underground, surface miners and contractors who began work after new regulations were implemented 1 August 2014, were identified and included in analysis.

Results

Of the 115 093 unique miners who participated in the CWHSP and whose estimated entry into mining occurred during 30 June 1971–15 March 2019, 50 487 (43.9%) received their initial mandatory radiograph, and 15 452 (13.4%) submitted their initial and 3-year mandatory radiographs. Since new regulations were implemented, compliance with initial radiographs appeared to improve (80%) but compliance with 3-year radiographs remained low (11.6%). Compliance with spirometry testing was also low for initial (17.1%) and follow-up screenings (2.7%).

Conclusions

The majority of new coal miners eligible for health surveillance did not receive a baseline radiograph or spirometry test through the CWHSP even though coal mine operators are required by law to provide these. Ensuring coal miners’ regular participation in health surveillance from early in their careers is an important way to monitor and protect their respiratory health.
Sustained remission following the discontinuation of tofacitinib in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (XANADU study): an open-label randomised study
Authors: Kubo Satoshi , Miyazaki Yusuke , Amano Koichi , Matsui Kiyoshi , Kameda Hideto , Inoue Yoshino , Nakayamada Shingo , Ogura Takehisa , Kaneko Yuko , Yamaoka Kunihiro , Tanaka Yoshiya
Published: April 2023

Objective

To investigate sustained remission following the discontinuation of tofacitinib in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Methods

Patients who had an inadequate response to methotrexate (MTX) with or without biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs were randomly divided into two groups at baseline, and tofacitinib treatment in combination with MTX was administered to both groups. Either MTX or tofacitinib was then withdrawn if patients achieved Clinical Disease Activity Index remission at week 52. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who sustained clinical remission at week 104.

Results

A total of 113 patients participated in this study. Among them, a total of 48 patients achieved remission at week 52. After discontinuation of tofacitinib, only 29.2% (7/24) of patients remained remission, while 50.0% (10/20) of patients, which was numerically higher but not statistically significant, sustained remission after MTX discontinuation. A greater proportion of bio-naïve patients achieved remission at week 52 and sustained low disease activity with tofacitinib discontinuation at week 104. Additionally, the patients who were able to discontinue tofacitinib without flares had lower rheumatoid factor (p=0.04) and lower anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody (p=0.051) before discontinuation of tofacitinib. No severe adverse events were recorded after discontinuation of tofacitinib or MTX. In patients who relapsed after tofacitinib discontinuation, 71.4% achieved remission with resumption of tofacitinib.

Conclusions

This study implies that a blanket cessation of tofacitinib may not be suitable for all patients, given that 58% of the participants experienced relapse. However, the withdrawal of tofacitinib is unlikely to result in the acquisition of treatment-resistance.
Exclusive and dual use of electronic cigarettes among European youth in 32 countries with different regulatory landscapes
Authors: Ollila Hanna , Tarasenko Yelena , Ciobanu Angela , Lebedeva Elizaveta , Raitasalo Kirsimarja
Published: April 2023

Background

The Tobacco Products Directive (2014/40/EU) partially harmonised the regulation of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) in Europe, but individual countries maintain jurisdiction over bans on use in public places, domestic advertising, taxation and flavour regulations. Their association with youth e-cigarette use has not been examined.

Methods

We used the cross-sectional 2019 European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs data from 32 countries with 98 758 students aged 15–16 years and the 2020 WHO’s assessment of the e-cigarette regulations. Multilevel logistic regression models on ever (vs never) and current (vs non-current) exclusive e-cigarette use, exclusive cigarette use and dual use by e-cigarette regulations’ composite score were adjusted for age, gender, parental education, perceived family’s financial well-being, perceived difficulty of obtaining cigarettes, country income level and general progress in tobacco control.

Results

Of the respondents, 13.3% had ever used cigarettes, 10.6% e-cigarettes and 27.3% both; 13.0% currently used cigarettes, 6.0% e-cigarettes and 6.4% both. Higher composite country score in the e-cigarette regulations was associated with lower current exclusive e-cigarette use (OR=0.78; 95% CI 0.65 to 0.94) and current dual use (OR=0.80; 95% CI 0.67 to 0.95). Youth perceiving more difficulties in obtaining cigarettes were less likely to use cigarettes, e-cigarettes and both ever and currently (OR from 0.80 (95% CI 0.76 to 0.85) to 0.94 (95% CI 0.92 to 0.96)).

Conclusions

More comprehensive e-cigarette regulations and enforcement of age-of-sale laws may be protective of e-cigarette and dual use among adolescents.
TSD investigation of P(VDF-TeFE)/Si composites under the gamma irradiation
Authors: Mehdiyeva R. N. , Nuruyev I. M. , Mehdiyev N. M. , Nuriyev M. A.
Published: April 2023

In the presented work, the charge state of P(VDF-TeFE)/Si-based composites obtained on the basis of nano-Si with a size of 50[Formula: see text]nm and micro-Si particles with a size of 50[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m and P(VDF-TeFE) copolymer of polyvinylidenefluoride with tetrafluoroethylene from polar polymers, was investigated, the amount of filler and the effect of ionizing radiation on these properties were studied. It has been shown that the observed differences in the charge state parameters of P(VDF-TeFE)/Si composites obtained with nano- and micro-sized Si are due to the higher concentration of nanoparticles and, accordingly, the effective surface area in the composites obtained with nanosized Si, and the change in the mobility of relaxors due to the effects of construction and destruction processes that occur in the polymer matrix and at the interphase boundary after the effect of gamma radiation. The reason for the observed changes in the depolarization processes of polarized P(VDF-TeFE)/nano-Si composites after gamma radiation is the change in the ratio between the construction and destruction processes in the system.
Entropy optimized chemical reactive flow of nanofluid subjected to a stretchable cylinder
Authors: Alzahrani Faris , Khan Sohail A. , Rahman Mujeeb ur , Khan M. Ijaz
Published: April 2023

The main aim of this paper is to provide numerical simulation for viscous nanofluid by stretching cylinder using Buongiorno’s model. Dissipation, Joule heating and magnetic impact with irreversibility analysis are examined. Furthermore, Brownian movement and thermophoresis diffusion effects are studied. Through constitutive relations, nonlinear equations are obtained. By adopting suitable variables, the partial differential equations are changed to ordinary differential equations. Entropy rate is calculated using thermodynamics second law. ND-solve technique in Mathematica is employed to tackle dimensionless ordinary differential equations. The behavior of flow controlling parameters is examined graphically. Physical quantities are discussed through tables. A decrement in velocity is seen through magnetic effect, while opposite impact is seen for entropy rate. A similar scenario is seen for thermal field through random and thermophoresis variables. Reduction in concentration is seen for reaction parameter and Schmidt number. Important findings are presented.
A Compact Wideband (22–44GHz) Printed 2×4 MIMO Array Antenna with High Gain for 26/28/38GHz Millimeter-Wave 5G Applications
Authors: Nasri Nour Elhouda , Das Sudipta , El Ghzaoui Mohammed , Madhav Boddapati Taraka Phani , Kumari Samudrala Vara , Fattah Mohammed
Published: April 2023

In this work, a novel multiple input multiple output (MIMO) array antenna system with a large bandwidth and high gain has been simulated, analyzed, fabricated, and measured. The proposed antenna is structured in [Formula: see text] patch configuration along with a cross shaped ground plane loaded with four square and one circular shaped defect. The projected antenna occupies a total size of [Formula: see text]. Several slots in an elliptic form have been added to the patches to achieve the required results in terms of wide bandwidth and high gain. The MIMO antenna array is fabricated and experimentally tested to confirm the simulation results. The suggested MIMO array antenna offers an impedance bandwidth of 22[Formula: see text]GHz covering 22–44[Formula: see text]GHz wide range of frequencies with a high peak gain of 17[Formula: see text]dBi at 38[Formula: see text]GHz. The designed MIMO antenna offers superior diversity performance and it supports several 5G NR bands n257/n258/n259/n260/n261 in the mm-wave spectrum. The suggested MIMO antenna supports 5G application bands that are deployed in UK, USA, China, Europe, Canada, India, and Europe.
VDTA Based Unified Grounded Fractional/Integer Order Negative/Positive Inductance Emulator
Authors: Rani Parveen , Pandey Rajeshwari
Published: April 2023

In this technical communication a voltage differencing transconductance amplifier (VDTA)-based unified grounded fractional/integer order negative/positive inductance emulator (IE) has been proposed which can be configured as (i) fractional order negative inductance emulator (FO-PIE) (ii) fractional order positive inductor emulator (FO-PIE) (iii) integer order negative inductance emulator (IO-NIE) and (iv) integer order positive inductor emulator (IO-PIE). The proposed unified IE is designed around a single VDTA and a grounded fractional capacitor (FC) or capacitor only. Non-ideal mathematical formulations of the proposed IE are carried out to enumerate the effect of non-idealities associated with VDTA. The functionality of proposed structure is validated through Virtuoso from Cadence tool suite using 180[Formula: see text]nm generic process design kit (gpdk) CMOS technology parameters. Power supplies of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]V are used for VDTA simulation. The continued fraction expansion (CFE)-based rational approximation is used for FC implementation which is realized using RC ladder network truncated to 12th order. Fractional negative and positive inductances of value 78.13[Formula: see text][Formula: see text], 23.44[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] and 0.78[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] are realized and simulated. The topology is also tested for 1[Formula: see text]mH positive and negative integer order inductances. The simulation results corroborate with theoretical propositions. The applicability of the proposed structure is justified through two application examples namely parasitic fractional order inductance cancellation and fractional order high pass filter.
ROBUST IMPLICIT DIFFERENCE APPROACH FOR THE TIME-FRACTIONAL KURAMOTO–SIVASHINSKY EQUATION WITH THE NON-SMOOTH SOLUTION
Authors: HAN XIANG-LIN , GUO TAO , NIKAN OMID , AVAZZADEH ZAKIEH
Published: April 2023

This paper formulates the L1 implicit difference scheme (L1IDS) for the time-fractional Kuramoto–Sivashinsky equation (TFKSE) with non-smooth solution. The TFKSE is one of useful descriptions for modeling flame-propagation, viscous flow problems, and reaction–diffusion systems. The proposed method approximates the unknown solution by using two main stages. At the first stage, the L1 method with nonuniform meshes and the general centered difference method is adopted to discretize the Caputo fractional derivative and the spatial derivative, respectively. In the second stage, the fully-discrete L1IDS is established with the help of the Galerkin scheme based on piecewise linear test functions. Meanwhile, an iterative algorithm is adopted to solve the nonlinear systems. Furthermore, the convergence and stability of the proposed method are both demonstrated and confirmed numerically. Finally, three numerical examples highlight the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed strategy.
Analytical Solution of Horizontal Dynamic Response of a Floating Pile Embedded in an Elastic–Poroelasitc-Layered Soil
Authors: Yang Zijian , Zou Xinjun
Published: April 2023

The horizontal dynamic interaction problems of a floating pile with soil have received little attention from scholars in recent years. This paper first proposed an analytical solution for the dynamic characteristics of the floating pile subjected to horizontal steady-state excitation embedded in soil containing the groundwater table level. Based on Biot’s elastodynamic theory, the governing equations of the soil around the pile are obtained. By virtue of the Hankel transform technique and variable separation method, the shaft reactions and base resistances transferred from the soil are calculated and substituted into the dynamic equation of the floating pile derived by the Euler beam model. The dynamic impedance coefficient of the pile head in the frequency domain is obtained by using the transfer matrix method. Comparisons with the previous studies are performed to validate the accuracy of the presented approach. The effects of the thickness of the pile end soil, the slenderness ratio of the pile, the groundwater table level and the relative modulus of pile material on the pile dynamic response are investigated through several numerical analyses. The results show that there is an “active soil thickness” for the horizontal dynamic forced floating piles due to the reflection and refraction of the stand waves. Meanwhile, the effect of the groundwater table level should not be neglected to ensure the safety of pile foundation under service life.
Tracking Active Control Forces by Using a Semi-Active Vehicle Suspension Integrated with Negative Stiffness
Authors: Shi Xiang , Wu Zhiwei , Hua Yingyu , Shi Wei , Zhu Songye , Li Jinyang
Published: April 2023

Active suspension technique normally provides the best vibration mitigation performance at the cost of high-energy consumption. In contrast, the energy consumption of a semi-active suspension is normally much smaller than that of an active suspension, whereas the control performance is compromised as well. Observing the core issue that caused such a phenomenon is that the existing semi-active control force, unlike the active control force, shall always oppose to the relative motion of the actuator (i.e. clipping phenomenon). This paper subsequently proposes a novel semi-active vehicle suspension system that incorporates a passive negative stiffness (NS) spring and a semi-active damper (SD) to realize uncompromised active control force while consuming energy of a typical semi-active suspension system. In specific, the proposed system allows for decomposition of the target active control force and tracked via the collaboration of the NS and SD components. Herein, the NS element is capable of releasing the store potential energy that subsequently eases the aforementioned clipping phenomenon of a traditional semi-active suspension. In this paper, besides the relevant clarifications on the system topology and working mechanism, its feasibility and performance enhancement are also validated via systematic numerical simulations of a vehicle suspension; and the results indicate, for the first time, that the proposed semi-active suspension can fully track the active control force and subsequently achieve unprecedented control performance comparable to an active controller.