bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lysophosphatidylserines derived from microbiota in Crohn’s disease elicit pathological Th1 response
Authors: Otake-Kasamoto Yuriko , Kayama Hisako , Kishikawa Toshihiro , Shinzaki Shinichiro , Tashiro Taku , Amano Takahiro , Tani Mizuki , Yoshihara Takeo , Li Bo , Tani Haruka , Liu Li , Hayashi Akio , Okuzaki Daisuke , Motooka Daisuke , Nakamura Shota , Okada Yukinori , Iijima Hideki , Takeda Kiyoshi , Takehara Tetsuo
Published: May 2022

Microbiota alteration and IFN-γ–producing CD4+ T cell overactivation are implicated in Crohn’s disease (CD) pathogenesis. However, it remains unclear how dysbiosis enhances Th1 responses, leading to intestinal inflammation. Here, we identified key metabolites derived from dysbiotic microbiota that induce enhanced Th1 responses and exaggerate colitis in mouse models. Patients with CD showed elevated lysophosphatidylserine (LysoPS) concentration in their feces, accompanied by a higher relative abundance of microbiota possessing a gene encoding the phospholipid-hydrolyzing enzyme phospholipase A. LysoPS induced metabolic reprogramming, thereby eliciting aberrant effector responses in both human and mouse IFN-γ–producing CD4+ T cells. Administration of LysoPS into two mouse colitis models promoted large intestinal inflammation. LysoPS-induced aggravation of colitis was impaired in mice lacking P2ry10 and P2ry10b, and their CD4+ T cells were hyporesponsive to LysoPS. Thus, our findings elaborate on the mechanism by which metabolites elevated in patients with CD harboring dysbiotic microbiota promote Th1-mediated intestinal pathology.
Target heating and plasma dynamics during hot magnetron sputtering of Nb
Authors: Leonova K , Britun N , Konstantinidis S
Published: May 2022

In this work, the direct current (DC) hot magnetron sputtering (HMS) of Nb has been studied and compared with the conventional cold magnetron sputtering (CMS) discharge. Particularly, these two magnetron systems were investigated in terms of current–voltage trends, behaviour of spectral lines, target temperature, and deposition rate. The current–voltage evolution showing strong variations over time in the HMS system was used to monitor the moment when thermionic emission becomes considerable. Meanwhile, thanks to the time-resolved optical emission spectroscopy (OES), the dynamics of plasma particles and the population of their electronic levels were analysed as a function of the target temperature. The target temperature was measured owing to both pyrometry and OES-based approach, i.e. by fitting an emission spectrum baseline. Finally, in the HMS configuration used in this work, the deposition rate up to 100 nm min−1 was obtained at the applied power density of 30 W cm−2, which is three times higher than the maximum power density applicable to the classical CMS system. However, with further increase in the power density, the deposition rate values were found to be saturated, which is likely caused by a significant increment in a number of thermal electrons in the discharge area.
Accurate determination of alkali atom density based on zero-field magnetic resonance in a single-beam spin-exchange relaxation-free atomic magnetometer
Authors: Ma Yintao , Chen Yao , Zhao Libo , Yu Mingzhi , Wang Yanbin , Guo Ju , Yang Ping , Lin Qijing , Jiang Zhuangde
Published: May 2022

A single-beam spin-exchange relaxation-free (SERF) atomic magnetometer can extract vector magnetic field information by detecting the transmission intensity of a resonant circularly polarized pumping beam, which depends sensitively on the atomic density of the alkali metal. We present a novel scheme to determine atomic density based on zero-field magnetic resonance. The resonance linewidth under different transverse DC magnetic fields is fitted by means of a quadratic function. The atomic density can be extracted from the quadratic coefficients of the fitted function. The experimental results indicate that the deviation of measured density is less than two times compared with the theoretical values between 378 K and 403 K. Furthermore, the influence of modulation field on resonance linewidth is investigated experimentally and theoretically. A miniature single-beam SERF atomic magnetometer with a sensor head volume of only 16.2 cm3 and the measuring sensitivity of 40 fT/ Hz1/2 has been achieved. These results should be beneficial for guiding the development of a chip-scale atomic magnetometer with high sensitivity and spatial resolution for bio-magnetic field imaging applications.
An improved point spread function for complex susceptibility-based magnetic particle imaging
Authors: Jiang Tao , Yi Wentong , Du Zhongzhou , Liu Wenzhong
Published: May 2022

Spatial resolution is a key metric for characterizing magnetic particle imaging (MPI), and magnetic relaxation is a critical factor affecting the spatial resolution. This study investigates the point spread functions (PSFs) of MPI and analyzes the potential of breaking through the spatial resolution limit, which equals the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the Langevin function derivative. In this work, different PSFs of MPI were built based on the magnitude and real and imaginary parts of complex susceptibility. The imaging performance was evaluated using the FWHM and a self-defined convergence parameter. The results show that image reconstruction can achieve a narrower PSF based on the imaginary part of complex susceptibility, and the heavy-tailed distribution of the derivative of the Langevin curve can be optimized. This suggests that there is scope to improve the spatial resolution and image contrast of MPI.
A novel method for roundness error based on searching the center of the circle
Authors: Wang Shiqiang , Zheng Peng , Kong Yuqiang , Zhu Yonggang , Wang Guilu , Zhang Xiaoying
Published: May 2022

The roundness error is one of the criteria for evaluating the qualifications of industrial parts. With the development of science and technology—especially the popularity of the new generation of Product Geometry Specifications (GPS), the method of high-precision measurement of roundness error has become a hotspot in the field of industrial metrology. To evaluate roundness error accurately and quickly, a novel algorithm was proposed based on the analysis of the existing evaluation algorithms, which was called the improve zone searching algorithm (IZS). First, the roundness error evaluation model based on the IZS was obtained. Then, the accuracy and efficiency of the algorithm are verified by simulation calculating. According to the experimental researches comparing traditional methods with IZS, it turns out that the speed is faster than the traditional methods and the calculating result is more accurate. Also, this paper improves Pauta criterion so that we can get the measured points correctly and quickly. These studies can be applied to the measurement of roundness error in industrial practice and have very important application value.
Domain adaptation of automated treatment planning from computed tomography to magnetic resonance
Authors: Khalifa Aly , Winter Jeff , Navarro Inmaculada , McIntosh Chris , Purdie Thomas G
Published: May 2022

Objective. Machine learning (ML) based radiation treatment planning addresses the iterative and time-consuming nature of conventional inverse planning. Given the rising importance of magnetic resonance (MR) only treatment planning workflows, we sought to determine if an ML based treatment planning model, trained on computed tomography (CT) imaging, could be applied to MR through domain adaptation. Methods. In this study, MR and CT imaging was collected from 55 prostate cancer patients treated on an MR linear accelerator. ML based plans were generated for each patient on both CT and MR imaging using a commercially available model in RayStation 8B. The dose distributions and acceptance rates of MR and CT based plans were compared using institutional dose-volume evaluation criteria. The dosimetric differences between MR and CT plans were further decomposed into setup, cohort, and imaging domain components. Results. MR plans were highly acceptable, meeting 93.1% of all evaluation criteria compared to 96.3% of CT plans, with dose equivalence for all evaluation criteria except for the bladder wall, penile bulb, small and large bowel, and one rectum wall criteria (p < 0.05). Changing the input imaging modality (domain component) only accounted for about half of the dosimetric differences observed between MR and CT plans. Anatomical differences between the ML training set and the MR linac cohort (cohort component) were also a significant contributor. Significance. We were able to create highly acceptable MR based treatment plans using a CT-trained ML model for treatment planning, although clinically significant dose deviations from the CT based plans were observed. Future work should focus on combining this framework with atlas selection metrics to create an interpretable quality assurance QA framework for ML based treatment planning.
Relating 18F-FDG image signal-to-noise ratio to time-of-flight noise-equivalent count rate in total-body PET using the uEXPLORER scanner
Authors: Leung Edwin K , Abdelhafez Yasser G , Berg Eric , Xie Zhaoheng , Zhang Xuezhu , Bayerlein Reimund , Spencer Benjamin , Li Elizabeth , Omidvari Negar , Selfridge Aaron , Cherry Simon R , Qi Jinyi , Badawi Ramsey D
Published: May 2022

Objective. This work assessed the relationship between image signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and total-body noise-equivalent count rate (NECR)—for both non-time-of-flight (TOF) NECR and TOF-NECR—in a long uniform water cylinder and 14 healthy human subjects using the uEXPLORER total-body PET/CT scanner. Approach. A TOF-NEC expression was modified for list-mode PET data, and both the non-TOF NECR and TOF-NECR were compared using datasets from a long uniform water cylinder and 14 human subjects scanned up to 12 h after radiotracer injection. Main results. The TOF-NECR for the uniform water cylinder was found to be linearly proportional to the TOF-reconstructed image SNR2 in the range of radioactivity concentrations studied, but not for non-TOF NECR as indicated by the reduced R
2 value. The results suggest that the use of TOF-NECR to estimate the count rate performance of TOF-enabled PET systems may be more appropriate for predicting the SNR of TOF-reconstructed images. Significance. Image quality in PET is commonly characterized by image SNR and, correspondingly, the NECR. While the use of NECR for predicting image quality in conventional PET systems is well-studied, the relationship between SNR and NECR has not been examined in detail in long axial field-of-view total-body PET systems, especially for human subjects. Furthermore, the current NEMA NU 2-2018 standard does not account for count rate performance gains due to TOF in the NECR evaluation. The relationship between image SNR and total-body NECR in long axial FOV PET was assessed for the first time using the uEXPLORER total-body PET/CT scanner.
A neural network-based algorithm for simultaneous event positioning and timestamping in monolithic scintillators
Authors: Carra Pietro , Giuseppina Bisogni Maria , Ciarrocchi Esther , Morrocchi Matteo , Sportelli Giancarlo , Rosso Valeria , Belcari Nicola
Published: May 2022

Objective. Monolithic scintillator crystals coupled to silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) arrays are promising detectors for PET applications, offering spatial resolution around 1 mm and depth-of-interaction information. However, their timing resolution has always been inferior to that of pixellated crystals, while the best results on spatial resolution have been obtained with algorithms that cannot operate in real-time in a PET detector. In this study, we explore the capabilities of monolithic crystals with respect to spatial and timing resolution, presenting new algorithms that overcome the mentioned problems. Approach. Our algorithms were tested first using a simulation framework, then on experimentally acquired data. We tested an event timestamping algorithm based on neural networks which was then integrated into a second neural network for simultaneous estimation of the event position and timestamp. Both algorithms are implemented in a low-cost field-programmable gate array that can be integrated in the detector and can process more than 1 million events per second in real-time. Results. Testing the neural network for the simultaneous estimation of the event position and timestamp on experimental data we obtain 0.78 2D FWHM on the (x, y) plane, 1.2 depth-of-interaction FWHM and 156 coincidence time resolution on a

25

mm

×

25

mm

×

8

mm

×

LYSO monolith read-out by 64

3

mm
×
3

mm

Hamamatsu SiPMs. Significance. Our results show that monolithic crystals combined with artificial intelligence can rival pixellated crystals performance for time-of-flight PET applications, while having better spatial resolution and DOI resolution. Thanks to the use of very light neural networks, event characterization can be done on-line directly in the detector, solving the issues of scalability and computational complexity that up to now were preventing the use of monolithic crystals in clinical PET scanners.
Impact of the non-axisymmetric SOL current driven by a biased electrode on the diverted J-TEXT plasma
Authors: Li Shuhao , Wang Nengchao , Ding Yonghua , Liang Yunfeng , Yang Qinghu , Mao Feiyue , Xu Xin , Ren Zhengkang , Zhao Chuanxu , Huang Zhuo , Alhaji Bala Abba , Chen Zhipeng , Chen Zhongyong , Yang Zhoujun , Pan Yuan
Published: May 2022

It is observed in EAST that the non-axisymmetric helical currents induced by lower hybrid waves (LHWs) in the scrape-off layer (SOL) can produce resonant magnetic perturbations (RMPs), hence mitigate edge-localized modes (ELMs) significantly and cause the strike points splitting. In this work, the non-axisymmetric SOL current driven by an alternative method, i.e. biased electrode, is shown to influence the plasma boundary, especially the strike points, in the divertor configuration on J-TEXT. With positive bias to the electrode, the upper strike points on the divertor target plate is observed to split as captured by the visible camera. Such splitting is usually observed with the RMPs. In addition, the SOL plasma parameters measured by the reciprocating probe, such as floating potential (V
f), electron temperature (T
e), and ion saturation current (I
s), are significantly altered by applying modulation bias, which is closely related to the SOL current. A SOL current model has been extended from the limiter configuration version to the poloidal divertor configuration, and the magnetic field generated by SOL current and the change of magnetic topological structure of plasma boundary can be simulated. The simulation results shows that the magnetic perturbation generated by the SOL current can induce the lobes near the X-point, which is three-dimensional asymmetric structure, and shows good agreement with the experimental observation. The active control of the boundary magnetic topology indicates that the SOL current is capable of generating strong magnetic perturbations, and hence might be sufficient for the control of ELMs.
Corrigendum: “Gender Systematics in the NRAO Proposal Review System”(2021, PASP, 133, 115002)
Authors: Hunt Gareth , Schwab Frederic R. , Henning P. A. , Balser Dana S.
Published: May 2022

In Hunt et al., we used the Anderson–Darling (AD) two-sample test to evaluate the probability that the observed linear rank distributions for female and male principal investigators are from the same parent sample. We determined the nominal AD p-value, ρ
AD(x, y), where x and y are the female and male linear ranks, and estimated the uncertainty by calculating the mean and 68% confidence intervals from the AD p-value bootstrapped distributions,

ρ

AD

boot

. Since the p-value is a measure of probability, and the distribution of p-values is uniform, this method is not appropriate. Here we calculate

ρ

AD

boot

as the proportion of bootstrapped AD test statistics that are greater than or equal to the nominal AD test statistic. We find that the nominal and bootstrapped AD p-values are similar and therefore we do not recommend any changes to the conclusions in Hunt et al.
A STING agonist preconditions against ischaemic stroke via an adaptive antiviral Type 1 interferon response
Authors: Kundu Nandini , Kumar Amit , Corona Carlo , Chen Yingxin , Seth Sonia , Karuppagounder Saravanan S. , Ratan Rajiv R.
Published: May 2022

Converging lines of inquiry have highlighted the importance of the Type I antiviral response not only in defending against viruses but also in preconditioning the brain against ischaemic stroke. Despite this understanding, treatments that foster brain resilience by driving antiviral interferon responses have yet to be developed for human use. Studies from our laboratory showed that tilorone, the first human antiviral immunomodulatory agent to be developed, robustly preconditioned against stroke in mice and rats. Tilorone is a DNA intercalator; therefore, we hypothesized that it stabilizes cytosolic DNA (released from the mitochondria or the nucleus), thereby activating cyclic GMP–AMP synthase, a homeostatic DNA sensor, and its downstream pathway. This pathway involves stimulator of interferon genes (STING), tank-binding kinase 1 (TBK1), and interferon regulatory protein-3 and culminates in a protective Type I interferon response. We tested this hypothesis by examining the ability of structurally diverse small-molecule agonists of STING to protect against oxygen/glucose deprivation in vitro in mouse cortical cultures and in vivo against transient ischaemia in mice. The STING agonists significantly reduced cell death both in vitro and in vivo but failed to do so in STING knockout mice. As expected, STING agonist-induced protection was associated with the induction of interferon related genes and the effects could be abrogated in vitro by a TBK1 inhibitor. Taken together, these findings in mice identify STING as a therapeutic target for preconditioning the brain against ischaemic stroke in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, they suggest that clinically approved STING agonists such as Ganciclovir or α-Mangostin are candidate drugs that could be tested in humans as a prophylactic treatment to alleviate brain injury associated with ischaemic stroke.
Cumulative Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection Incidence (Measured Primarily by Tuberculin Skin Test) Among Infants With Human Immunodeficiency Virus Exposure: Observational Follow-up of an Isoniazid Prophylaxis Trial
Authors: LaCourse Sylvia M , Escudero Jaclyn N , Mecha Jerphason , Warr A J , Richardson Barbra A , Carimo Naziat , Cranmer Lisa M , Maleche-Obimbo Elizabeth , Matemo Daniel , Kinuthia John , Hawn Thomas R , John-Stewart Grace
Published: May 2022

Cumulative 24-month Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection incidence (measured primarily by tuberculin skin test [TST]) was high among human immunodeficiency virus exposed but uninfected infants (8.7 [95% confidence interval, 6.3–11.9] per 100 person-years). Trend for decreased TST positivity among infants at trial end (12 months postenrollment) randomized to isoniazid at 6 weeks of age was not sustained through observational follow-up to 24 months of age.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT02613169.
Association of Frailty, Age, and Biological Sex With Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Messenger RNA Vaccine–Induced Immunity in Older Adults
Authors: Shapiro Janna R , Sitaras Ioannis , Park Han Sol , Aytenfisu Tihitina Y , Caputo Christopher , Li Maggie , Lee John , Johnston Trevor S , Li Huifen , Wouters Camille , Hauk Pricila , Jacobsen Henning , Li Yukang , Abrams Engle , Yoon Steve , Kocot Andrew J , Yang Tianrui , Huang Yushu , Cramer Steven M , Betenbaugh Michael J , Debes Amanda K , Morgan Rosemary , Milstone Aaron M , Karaba Andrew H , Pekosz Andrew , Leng Sean X , Klein Sabra L
Published: May 2022

Background

Male sex and old age are risk factors for severe coronavirus disease 2019, but the intersection of sex and aging on antibody responses to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines has not been characterized.

Methods

Plasma samples were collected from older adults (aged 75–98 years) before and after 3 doses of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination, and from younger adults (aged 18–74 years) post-dose 2, for comparison. Antibody binding to SARS-CoV-2 antigens (spike protein [S], S receptor-binding domain, and nucleocapsid), functional activity against S, and live-virus neutralization were measured against the vaccine virus and the Alpha, Delta, and Omicron variants of concern (VOCs).

Results

Vaccination induced greater antibody titers in older females than in older males, with both age and frailty associated with reduced antibody responses in males but not females. Responses declined significantly in the 6 months after the second dose. The third dose restored functional antibody responses and eliminated disparities caused by sex, age, and frailty in older adults. Responses to the VOCs, particularly the Omicron variant, were significantly reduced relative to the vaccine virus, with older males having lower titers to the VOCs than older females. Older adults had lower responses to the vaccine and VOC viruses than younger adults, with greater disparities in males than in females.

Conclusions

Older and frail males may be more vulnerable to breakthrough infections owing to low antibody responses before receipt of a third vaccine dose. Promoting third dose coverage in older adults, especially males, is crucial to protecting this vulnerable population.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Vaccine Prioritization in Low- and Middle-Income Countries May Justifiably Depart From High-Income Countries’ Age Priorities
Authors: Eyal Nir , Gheaus Anca , Gosseries Axel , Magalhaes Monica , Ngosso Thierry , Steuwer Bastian , Tangcharoensathien Viroj , Trifan Isa , Williams Andrew
Published: May 2022

In high-income countries that were first to roll out coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines, older adults have thus far usually been prioritized for these vaccines over younger adults. Age-based priority primarily resulted from interpreting evidence available at the time, which indicated that vaccinating the elderly first would minimize COVID-19 deaths and hospitalizations. The World Health Organization counsels a similar approach for all countries. This paper argues that some low- and middle-income countries that are short of COVID-19 vaccine doses might be justified in revising this approach and instead prioritizing certain younger persons when allocating current vaccines or future variant-specific vaccines.
La Crosse Virus Neuroinvasive Disease in Children: A Contemporary Analysis of Clinical/Neurobehavioral Outcomes and Predictors of Disease Severity
Authors: Boutzoukas Angelique E , Freedman Daniel A , Koterba Christine , Hunt Garrett W , Mack Kathy , Cass Jennifer , Yildiz Vedat O , de los Reyes Emily , Twanow Jaime , Chung Melissa G , Ouellette Christopher P
Published: May 2022

Background

La Crosse virus (LACV) is the most common neuroinvasive arboviral infection in children in the United States. However, data regarding predictors of disease severity and neurologic outcome are limited. Additionally, long-term neurologic and neurobehavioral outcomes remain relatively sparse.

Methods

This was a single-center, retrospective cohort study, followed by recruitment for a cross-sectional analysis of long-term neurobehavioral outcomes, among children aged 0–18 years with proven or probable LACV neuroinvasive disease (LACV-ND) between January 2009 and December 2018. Case ascertainment was assured by International Classification of Diseases, Ninth and Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification codes cross-referenced with laboratory results detecting LACV. Demographics, diagnostics, radiographs, and outcomes were evaluated. Recruitment of patients with prior diagnosis of LACV-ND occurred from January 2020 to March 2020, with assessment performed by validated pediatric questionnaires.

Results

One-hundred fifty-two children (83 males; median age, 8 years [interquartile range, 5–11.5 years]) were diagnosed with proven (n = 61 [47%]) and probable (n = 91 [60%]) LACV-ND. Sixty-five patients (43%) had severe disease. Altered mental status (AMS) (odds ratio [OR], 6.36 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 2.03–19.95]; P = .0002) and seizures at presentation (OR, 10.31 [95% CI, 3.45–30.86]; P = .0001) were independent predictors of severe disease. Epileptiform discharges on electroencephalogram (EEG) were independently associated with epilepsy diagnosis at follow-up (OR, 13.45 [95% CI, 1.4–128.77]; P = .024). Fifty-four patients were recruited for long-term neurobehavioral follow-up, with frequent abnormal assessments identified (19%–54%) irrespective of disease severity.

Conclusions

Severe disease was observed frequently among children with LACV-ND. Seizures and AMS at presentation were independent predictors of severe disease. EEG may help determine long-term epilepsy risk. Long-term neurobehavioral issues are frequent and likely underrecognized among children with LACV-ND.
Higher In Vivo Fecal Concentrations of Clostridioides difficile Toxins A and B in Patients With North American Pulsed-Field Gel Electrophoresis Type 1/Ribotype 027 Strain Infection
Authors: Alonso Carolyn D , Pollock Nira R , Garey Kevin W , Gonzales-Luna Anne J , Williams David N , Daugherty Kaitlyn , Cuddemi Christine , Villafuerte-Gálvez Javier , White Nicole C , Chen Xinhua , Xu Hua , Sprague Rebecca , Barrett Caitlin , Miller Mark , Foussadier Agnès , Lantz Aude , Banz Alice , Kelly Ciarán P
Published: May 2022

Ultrasensitive, quantitative Clostridioides difficile stool toxin measurement demonstrated significantly higher concentrations of toxins A and B in patients infected with the North American pulsed-field gel electrophoresis type 1/ribotype 027 (NAP-1/027) strain compared with other strains, providing in vivo confirmation of the in vitro association between NAP-1/027 and elevated toxin production.
An Exploratory Factor Analysis of the National Institutes of Health Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System and the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation in Knee Surgery Patients
Authors: Tenan Matthew S , Dekker Travis , Dickens Jonathan F
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs) have been suggested for use in measuring treatment effectiveness. To minimize patient burden, two approaches have been proposed: An orthopedic-specific Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) or computer adaptive testing methods such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS). The goal of this work was to examine the constructs measured by the SANE and PROMIS system in a military orthopedic population undergoing knee surgery.

Materials and Methods

In 732 patients and 2,166 complete observations, the SANE-Knee PRO and PROMIS surveys for Depression, Anxiety, Pain Interference, Sleep Disturbance, and Physical Function were obtained. A correlation matrix between the PROs was calculated, the number of latent factors to extract was determined via parallel plot, and the final principal axis exploratory factor analysis was performed.

Results

The parallel plot analysis indicated that two latent factors existed. One latent factor corresponded to measures of psychological distress (PROMIS Sleep Disturbance, Depression, and Anxiety) and the second latent factor corresponded to physical capability (SANE, PROMIS Physical Function, Pain Interference, and Sleep Disturbance). Both PROMIS Physical Function (0.83) and Pain Interference (−0.80) more strongly weigh on the physical capability latent factor than SANE (0.69).

Conclusions

In a knee surgical population, the SANE, PROMIS Physical Function, and PROMIS Pain Interference measure the same human dimension of physical capability; however, PROMIS Physical Function and Pain Interference may measure this construct more effectively in isolation. The SANE may be a more viable option to gauge physical capability when computer adaptive testing is not possible.
Daily Written Care Summaries for Families of Critically Ill Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial*
Authors: Greenberg Jared A. , Basapur Santosh , Quinn Thomas V. , Bulger Jeffrey L. , Schwartz Nathaniel H. , Oh Soo Kyung , Ritz Ethan M. , Glover Crystal M. , Shah Raj C.
Published: May 2022

OBJECTIVES:

To determine the effect of daily written updates on the satisfaction and psychologic symptoms of families of ICU patients.

DESIGN:

Randomized controlled trial.

SETTING:

Single, urban academic medical center.

SUBJECTS:

Surrogates of nondecisional, critically ill adults with high risk of mortality (n = 252) enrolled from June 2019 to January 2021.

INTERVENTIONS:

Usual communication with the medical team with or without written communication detailing the suspected cause and management approach of each ICU problem, updated each day.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

Participants completed surveys at three time points during the ICU stay: enrollment (n = 252), 1 week (n = 229), and 2 weeks (n = 109) after enrollment. Satisfaction with care was measured using the Critical Care Family Needs Inventory (CCFNI). The presence of anxiety, depression, and acute stress were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and Impact of Events Scale Revised (IES-R). CCFNI, HADS, and IES-R scores were similar among participants assigned to the intervention group and control group upon enrollment and during the first week after enrollment (p > 0.05). From enrollment to the second week after enrollment, there was an improvement in CCFNI and HADS scores among participants assigned to the intervention group versus the control group. At week 2, CCFNI scores were significantly lower among participants in the intervention group versus the control group, indicating greater satisfaction with care: 15.1 (95% CI, 14.2–16.0) versus 16.4, (95% CI, 15.5–17.3); p = 0.04. In addition, 2 weeks after enrollment, the odds of symptoms of anxiety, depression, and acute stress among participants assigned to the intervention versus control group were 0.16 (95% CI, 0.03–0.82; p = 0.03); 0.15 (95% CI, 0.01–1.87; p = 0.14); and 0.27 (95% CI, 0.06–1.27; p = 0.10), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

Written communication improved satisfaction and the emotional well-being of families of critically ill patients, supporting its use as a supplement to traditional communication approaches.
Clinical Utility of Repetitive Nerve Stimulation Test in Differentiating Multifocal Motor Neuropathy From Progressive Muscular Atrophy
Authors: Watanabe Shunsuke , Sekiguchi Kenji , Noda Yoshikatsu , Matsumoto Riki
Published: May 2022

Objectives:

To evaluate the utility of repetitive nerve stimulation test (RNS) for differentiating multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) and progressive muscular atrophy (PMA).

Methods:

We retrospectively enrolled 20 patients with MMN or PMA. We extracted the results of the initial 3-Hz RNS in the ulnar and accessory nerves and compared the percentage and frequency of abnormal decremental responses between both groups.

Results:

RNS was performed in 8 ulnar and 9 accessory nerves in patients with MMN, and in 8 ulnar and 10 accessory nerves in patients with PMA. Patients with MMN had a significantly lower decrement percentage (0.6 ± 4.0% in MMN vs. 10.3 ± 6.5% in PMA, P < 0.01) and frequency of abnormal decremental response (0 of 9 in MMN vs. 6 of 10 in PMA, P = 0.01) than patients with PMA in the accessory nerve.

Conclusions:

The RNS has clinical utility for differentiating MMN from PMA.
The interface of condensates of the hnRNPA1 low complexity domain promotes formation of amyloid fibrils
Authors: Linsenmeier Miriam , Faltova Lenka , Palmiero Umberto Capasso , Seiffert Charlotte , Küffner Andreas M. , Pinotsi Dorothea , Zhou Jiangtao , Mezzenga Raffaele , Arosio Paolo
Published: May 2022

The maturation of liquid-like protein condensates into amyloid fibrils has been associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we analyze the amyloid formation mediated by condensation of the low-complexity domain of hnRNPA1, a protein involved in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). We show that phase separation and fibrillation are connected but distinct processes which are independently mediated by different regions of the protein sequence. By monitoring the spatial and temporal evolution of amyloid formation we demonstrate that the formation of fibrils does not occur homogeneously inside the droplets but is promoted at the interface of the condensates. Consistently, we further show that coating the interface of the droplets with surfactant molecules inhibits fibril formation. Our results indicate that the interface of biomolecular condensates can act as an important catalyst for fibril formation, and therefore could represent a possible therapeutic target against the formation of aberrant amyloids mediated by condensation.
Novel model of rotor design to increase the air gap flux of superconducting generator
Authors: Antipov Viktor N. , Ivanova Anna V. , Grozov Andrei D.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate a novel rotor design model to improve the technical performance of a superconducting synchronous generator.

Design/methodology/approach

Superconducting synchronous generators with a modular rotating cryostat for a single coil of the superconducting winding instead of an old-style single cryostat in which all rotor components are cold are briefly discussed. Subsequently, a new method of cryostat arrangement in the magnetic system of a rotor is considered. Different options were compared for the cryostat placement. The advantages of the novel rotor design model are noted.

Findings

In the novel rotor design model, the leakage coefficient of the excitation winding decreases, and the air gap magnetic flux increases, which will save on a superconductor material.

Research limitations/implications

For the purposes of this investigation, a finite element study of flux distribution in the cross section of a superconducting synchronous generator with a 10 MW rating at 10 rpm was conducted, and the magnetic fluxes and air gap flux densities were obtained for different modes. For direct-drive superconducting synchronous generators with distributed winding and different pole numbers, the calculations of magnetic fluxes were carried out by calculating the magnetic conductivities.

Originality/value

A new method of the cryostat arrangement in the magnetic system of a rotor has been classified as an invention and was protected by a patent. This paper is directly applicable to the field of superconducting synchronous generators.
Declining industries in emerging economies and firms’ strategies
Authors: Tan Hao
Published: May 2022

Purpose

International business (IB) and strategy research in the context of emerging economies (EEs) has focused traditionally on the strategies of firms in and from those markets to seize opportunities arising from their economic growth. This paper aims to demonstrate that declining industries in EEs are an important but overlooked research context for critical IB scholarship and to illuminate special considerations for strategising under those conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides an overview of declining industries in EEs and includes an illustration of a sample of such industries in major EEs. This paper then critically reviews research on firms’ strategies in declining industries and extends that critical discussion to the EE context.

Findings

Firstly, this paper provides evidence relating to declines in industries in EEs. Secondly, this paper identifies three major strategies that firms use in response to an industry decline and critically discusses those strategies’ manifestations and special considerations in the context of EEs.

Social implications

Industry decline in EEs and the resultant responses of multi-national enterprises and local firms, such as business exit, market competition and firm diversification strategies, cause significant social challenges. This paper calls for further research on the phenomenon, especially regarding its distinctive ramifications compared with those in the context of developed countries.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the critical IB scholarship by questioning the assumptions around high economic growth in individual EE industries and by challenging a universalistic approach that applies findings grounded in declining industries in developed countries to the distinctive context of EEs. This paper also provides forward-looking expositions concerning industry decline in EEs.
Extension of the boundary integral method for different boundary conditions in steady-state Stokes flows
Authors: Das Sandipan Kumar
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The boundary integral method (BIM) provides unparalleled computational efficiency for solving problems wherever it is applicable. For Stokes flows, the BIM in its current form can only be applied to a limited class of problems that generally comprises boundaries with either specified velocity or stress. This study aims to radically extend the applicability by developing a general method within the BIM framework that can handle periodic, symmetry, zero normal-velocity gradient and the specified pressure boundary conditions. This study is limited in scope to steady-state flows.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed method introduces a set of points near the boundary for the symmetry, zero normal-velocity gradient and specified pressure boundary conditions. The formulation for the first two boundary conditions use a spatial discretization procedure within the BIM framework to arrive at a set of equations for the unknowns. The specified pressure boundary condition warrants the decomposition of the unknown traction term into simpler components before the discretization procedure can be executed. Though the new methodology is illustrated in detail for two-dimensional rectangular domains, it can be generalized to more complex three-dimensional cases. This will be the subject for future investigations.

Findings

The current endeavor has successfully demonstrated the incorporation of the above boundary conditions through simple Stokes flow problems like plane channel flow, flow through ribbed duct and plane wall jet. The predicted results matched adequately with either analytical solutions or with available literature data.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first time that the exit boundary conditions like zero normal-velocity gradient and specified pressure have been formulated within the BIM for Stokes flows. These boundary conditions are extremely powerful and the current research initiative has the potential to dramatically increase the range of applicability of the BIM for Stokes flow simulations.
The issuance of sukuks in China: prospects and challenges
Authors: Yang Tiezheng
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to conduct a detailed analysis of the feasibility of issuing sukuk in China and examine the regulatory issues related to the issuance of sukuk in China.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses SWOT analysis to explore China’s internal and external environments related to the issuance of sukuks and examines the application of sukuks as an alternative financing instrument in China.

Findings

As a unique financial instrument, a sukuk can assist in meeting China’s current financing needs. Moreover, it is feasible to issue a sukuk. China should be prepared to modify its legal system and set up a regulatory framework conducive to the issuance of sukuks. Furthermore, blockchain technology can be used to overcome certain limitations of sukuks.

Originality/value

This study provides a detailed analysis of sukuk issuances in China. This study discusses the issue of sukuk issuance in China from the perspective of finance and law.
Does herding behavior matter in investment management and perceived market efficiency? Evidence from an emerging market
Authors: Ahmad Maqsood , Wu Qiang
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This article aims to clarify the mechanism by which herding behavior influences perceived market efficiency, investment decisions and the performance of individual investors actively trading on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX).

Design/methodology/approach

The deductive approach was used in this study, as the research is based on the theoretical framework of behavioral finance. A questionnaire and cross-sectional design were employed to collect data from the sample of 309 investors trading on the PSX. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS graphics software. Hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

The article provides further empirical insights into the relationship between herding behavior and investment management and perceived market efficiency. The results suggest that herding behavior has a markedly negative influence on perceived market efficiency and investment performance, while positively influencing the decision-making of individual investors.

Originality/value

The current study is the first to focus on links between herding behavior and investment management activities and perceived market efficiency. This article enhances the understanding of the role that herding behavior plays in investment management and, more importantly, it improves understanding of behavioral aspects and their influence on investment decision-making in an emerging market. It also adds to the literature in the area of behavioral finance, specifically the role of herding behavior in investment management; this field is in its initial stage, even in developed countries, while little work has been done in developing countries.
Triaging your human capital: an integrative perspective on strategic human capital asset allocation
Authors: Bonner Robert L. , Neely Andrea R. , Stone Christopher B. , Lengnick-Hall Cynthia A. , Lengnick-Hall Mark L.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overarching framework to guide the understanding of the allocation and deployment of strategic human capital assets within an organization. Using the concept of medical triage with business units analogous to “patients” and their performance to “symptoms or injuries,” the framework suggests a “steal from the poor” perspective that is counter to conventional organizational decline literature.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper proposing that there are five different categories of business unit need for human capital assets: expectant, deceased, immediate, delayed or minimal; all based on the type of environment and holistic performance of the business unit. Based on a business unit’s specific situation, the authors suggest a process model guiding how to conduct a triage analysis to optimize the allocation of strategic human capital assets within an organization.

Findings

The authors argue that current trends in assessing strategic human capital assets which make comparisons across organizations are necessary but insufficient (e.g. comparing a store to other stores in its district or region). Each business unit has its own unique internal capabilities and external constraints that also must be accurately assessed to make an informed organizational-level decision about where and how to deploy strategic human capital assets.

Originality/value

Borrowing from medical science, this paper demonstrates a new conceptual framework with propositions for researchers and guidance for practitioners.
Artificial intelligence and the changing landscape of accounting: a viewpoint
Authors: Kommunuri John
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The study aims to explore the changing landscape of accounting and the role of emerging technologies in the accounting environment. The author presents viewpoints on the influence of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and other subsets in accounting, emphasising the increasing need for and significance of these applications. The viewpoints could provide researchers and practitioners with a meaningful overview of knowledge and research agenda.

Findings

The role of emerging technologies in accounting and various opportunities and challenges in implementation are discussed. In addition, possible future research directions are identified.

Research limitations/implications

The paper does not contain empirical findings.

Originality/value

This paper expresses the author’s viewpoints regarding the impact of AI and ML on the changing accounting environment.
‘He called me out of the blue’: An ethnographic exploration of contrasting temporalities in a social prescribing intervention
Authors: Gibson Kate , Moffatt Suzanne , Pollard Tessa M.
Published: May 2022

Social prescribing, a way of connecting patients to local services, is central to the NHS Personalised Care agenda. This paper employs ethnographic data, generated with 19 participants between November 2018 and July 2020, to explore the socio‐temporal relations shaping their experiences of a local social prescribing intervention. Our focus is on the ways in which the intervention synchronised with the multitude of shifting, complex and often contradictory ‘timespaces’ of our participants. Our focus on the temporal rhythms of everyday practice allows us to trace a tension between the linearity and long horizon of the intervention and the oft contrasting timeframes of participants, sometimes leading to a mismatch that limited the intervention's impact. Further, we observed an interventional ‘drift’ from continuity towards unsupported signposting and ‘out‐of‐the‐blue’ contacts which favour the temporality of the intervention. We demonstrate a need for intervention planning to be flexible to multiple, often conflicting, temporalities. We argue that health interventions must account for the temporal relations lived by the people they seek to support.
MiR‐379‐5p inhibits the proliferation, migration, and invasion of breast cancer by targeting KIF4A
Authors: Yang Ke , Li Danyang , Jia Weihui , Song Yanmei , Sun Ningxin , Wang Jiemin , Li Hongli , Yin Chonggao
Published: May 2022

Background

Many studies have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) play an essential role in gene regulation and tumor development. This study aimed to explore the expression of miR‐379‐5p and its mechanisms of affecting proliferation, migration, and invasion in breast cancer (BC).

Methods

MiRNAs and mRNAs expression data of BC and normal breast tissue samples were downloaded from the TCGA and GEO databases. qRT‐PCR was used to detect the expression of miR‐379‐5p in human normal breast epithelial cell lines and human BC cell lines. The proliferation ability of transfected cells was detected by colony formation and EdU assays. The mobility and invasion ability of transfected cells was measured by wound healing and transwell assays. The relative protein expression of transfected cells was detected by western blot. Dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to identify the targeted binding of miR‐379‐5p and KIF4A.

Results

MiR‐379‐5p was lowly expressed in BC tissue samples and BC cell lines. The target genes of miR‐379‐5p were involved in many cancer‐related signaling pathways. PPI analysis and the cytoHubba algorithm of Cytoscape identified 10 genes as the hub genes. Survival analysis showed that only KIF4A expression in 10 hub genes was significantly associated with the prognosis of BC patients and was significantly upregulated in BC. Overexpression of miR‐379‐5p inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion in the BC cell line MDA‐MB‐231, which could be reversed by KIF4A.

Conclusions

MiR‐379‐5p inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion of BC by targeting KIF4A.