bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new model for magneto-optical sensor based on geometrical parameters and refractive index
Authors: Abbasi Sajad , Salehi Mohammad Reza , Emami Farzin
Published: August 2024

In this work, an all-dielectric magneto-optical refractometric sensor was designed using two methods: simulation analysis and modeling. In this structure, bismuth-substituted yttrium iron garnet (Bi: YIG), lithium niobate (LiNbO3), and silicon oxide (SiO2) are used to construct the grating, the middle layer, and the output part of the sensor, respectively. A magnetic field in the z-direction generates the transverse magneto-optical Kerr effect (TMOKE) signal to activate the structure. In addition, an optical field of 630 nm is applied to the structure. The model was created based on the geometrical parameters, the direction of the magnetic field, and the refractive index. The best-fit response was obtained by sweeping the period and refractive index of the analyte so that the output signals have an almost complete overlap with the response from the simulation. The change in refractive index leads to a shift of 0.4° in TMOKE, which is consistent with the simulation results. The time required for the analysis in the model by the system with CORE i7 (8 core) CPU and 32 GB RAM was a maximum of 30 s, while more than 1800 s were spent on the simulation.
On Sawada-Kotera and Kaup-Kuperschmidt integrable systems
Authors: Gürses Metin , Pekcan Aslı
Published: August 2024

To obtain new integrable nonlinear differential equations there are some well-known methods such as Lax equations with different Lax representations. There are also some other methods that are based on integrable scalar nonlinear partial differential equations. We show that some systems of integrable equations published recently are the

M

2

-extension of integrable such scalar equations. For illustration, we give Korteweg–de Vries, Kaup-Kupershmidt, and Sawada-Kotera equations as examples. By the use of such an extension of integrable scalar equations, we obtain some new integrable systems with recursion operators. We also give the soliton solutions of the systems and integrable standard nonlocal and shifted nonlocal reductions of these systems.
Transport performance of a dimer in inertial frictional ratchets
Authors: Fan Li-Ming , Ai Bao-quan , Chen Jin-can , Gao Tian-fu , Zheng Zhi-gang
Published: August 2024

This investigation focuses on the under-damped Brownian transport of a dimer characterized by two harmonically interacting components. The friction coefficients between the dimer components are different; thus the dynamic symmetry of the system is broken. In addition, the inertial ratchets are synchronously modulated by the feedback control protocol in time. Here, we analyze the transport performance by studying the average velocity and energy conversion efficiency of the dimer induced by friction symmetry breaking and external forces. Furthermore, we can also identify the enhancement of the centre-of-mass mean velocity and energy conversion efficiency of inertial frictional ratchets for intermediate values of the driving amplitude, coupling strength and damping force. Remarkably, in the weak bias case, the directed transport of inertial Brownian particles can be reversed twice by modulating the suitable friction of the dimer. In particular, the frictional ratchets can acquire a series of resonant steps under the influence of harmonic force. These conclusions of reliable transport in noisy environments are expected to provide insights into the performance of natural molecular motors.
Anomalous Hall effect and electronic correlation in a spin-reoriented kagome antiferromagnet LuFe6Sn6
Authors: Lyu 吕 Meng 孟 , Liu 刘 Yang 洋 , Zhang 张 Shen 伸 , Liu 刘 Junyan 俊艳 , Yang 杨 Jinying 金颖 , Wang 王 Yibo 一博 , Feng 冯 Yiting 乙婷 , Dong 董 Xuebin 学斌 , Wang 王 Binbin 彬彬 , Wei 魏 Hongxiang 红祥 , Liu 刘 Enke 恩克
Published: August 2024

The kagome lattice system has been identified as a fertile ground for the emergence of a number of new quantum states, including superconductivity, quantum spin liquids, and topological electronic states. This has attracted significant interest within the field of condensed matter physics. Here, we present the observation of an anomalous Hall effect in an iron-based kagome antiferromagnet LuFe6Sn6, which implies a non-zero Berry curvature in this compound. By means of extensive magnetic measurements, a high Neel temperature, T
N = 552 K, and a spin reorientation behavior were identified and a simple temperature-field phase diagram was constructed. Furthermore, this compound was found to exhibit a large Sommerfeld coefficient of γ = 87 mJ⋅mol−1⋅K−2, suggesting the presence of a strong electronic correlation effect. Our research indicates that LuFe6Sn6 is an intriguing compound that may exhibit magnetism, strong correlation, and topological states.
Constraining the Earth-mass Primordial Black Hole Mergers Model of the Non-repeating FRBs Using the First CHIME/FRB Catalog
Authors: Meng Min , Huang Qiu-Ju , Deng Can-Min
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we upgrade the constraints for the Earth-mass primordial black hole mergers model based on the first Canadian Hydrogen Intensity Mapping Experiment (CHIME)/fast radio burst (FRB) catalog. Assuming the null hypothesis that the observed non-repeating FRBs originate from Earth-mass primordial black hole mergers, we find that how the charges were distributed in the primordial black hole population is well described by a double power-law function with typical charge value of

q

c

/

10

−
5

=

1.60

−
0.28

+
0.28

, where the power-law index

α

1

=

2.33

−
0.18

+
0.15

for q < q
c and

α

2

=

4.56

−
0.26

+
0.30

for q ≥ q
c. Here, q represents the charge of the black hole in units of

G

M

, where M is the mass of the black hole. Furthermore, we infer the local event rate of the bursts is

8.8

−
2.1

+
5.7

×

10

4

Gpc

−
3

yr

−
1

, which indicates that an abundance of the primordial black hole population f ≳ 10−4 is needed to account for the observed FRBs by CHIME. The results of this paper lay the basis for further research on the electromagnetic radiation background generated by the merger of primordial black hole mergers.
Characterizing upper limb motor dysfunction with temporal and spatial distribution of muscle synergy extracted from high-density surface electromyography
Authors: Zhang Haoshi , Peng Boxing , Chen Ziyin , Peng Yinghu , Zhou Xiaomeng , Geng Yanjuan , Li Guanglin
Published: August 2024

Objective. To promote the development of objective and comprehensive motion function assessment for patients, based on high-density surface electromyography (HD-sEMG), this study investigates the temporal and spatial variations of neuromuscular activities related to upper limb motor dysfunction. Approach. Patients with unilateral upper limb motor dysfunction and healthy controls were enrolled in the study. HD-sEMG was collected from both arms while they were performing eight hand and wrist movements. Muscle synergies were extracted from the HD-sEMG. Symmetry of bilateral upper limb synergies and synergy differences between motions were proposed as spatial indicators to measure alterations in synergy spatial distribution. Additionally, as a temporal characteristic, the correlation of bilateral upper limb activation coefficient was proposed to describe the coordination control of the central nervous system. All temporal and spatial indicators were compared between patients and healthy subjects. Main results. The patients showed a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the symmetry of bilateral upper limb synergy spatial distribution and correlation of bilateral upper limb activation coefficient. Patients with motor dysfunction also showed an increase in synergy similarity between motions, indicating altered spatial distribution of muscle synergies. Significance. These findings provide valuable insights into specific patterns associated with motor dysfunction, informing motor function assessment, and guiding targeted interventions and rehabilitation strategies for neurologically disordered patients.
Markov generators as non-Hermitian supersymmetric quantum Hamiltonians: spectral properties via bi-orthogonal basis and singular value decompositions
Authors: Monthus Cécile
Published: August 2024

Continuity equations associated with continuous-time Markov processes can be considered as Euclidean Schrödinger equations, where the non-Hermitian quantum HamiltonianH=divJis naturally factorized into the product of the divergence operatordivand the current operatorJ. For non-equilibrium Markov jump processes in a space ofNconfigurations withMlinks andC=M−(N−1)⩾1independent cycles, this factorization of theN × NHamiltonianH=I†Jinvolves the incidence matrixIand the current matrixJof sizeM × N, so that the supersymmetric partnerH^=JI†governing the dynamics of the currents existing on theMlinks is of sizeM × M. To better understand the relations between the spectral decompositions of these two HamiltoniansH=I†JandH^=JI†with respect to their bi-orthogonal basis of right and left eigenvectors that characterize the relaxation dynamics towards the steady state and the steady currents, it is useful to analyze the properties of the singular value decomposition of the two rectangular matricesIandJof sizeM × Nand the interpretations in terms of discrete Helmholtz decompositions. This general framework concerning Markov jump processes can be adapted to non-equilibrium diffusion processes governed by Fokker–Planck equations in dimensiond, where the numberNof configurations, the numberMof links and the numberC=M−(N−1)of independent cycles become infinite, while the two matricesIandJbecome first-order differential operators acting on scalar functions to produce vector fields.
Quenches in the Sherrington–Kirkpatrick model
Authors: Erba Vittorio , Behrens Freya , Krzakala Florent , Zdeborová Lenka
Published: August 2024

The Sherrington–Kirkpatrick model is a prototype of a complex non-convex energy landscape. Dynamical processes evolving on such landscapes and locally aiming to reach minima are generally poorly understood. Here, we study quenches, i.e. dynamics that locally aim to decrease energy. We analyse the energy at convergence for two distinct algorithmic classes, single-spin flip and synchronous dynamics, focusing on greedy and reluctant strategies. We provide precise numerical analysis of the finite size effects and conclude that, perhaps counter-intuitively, the reluctant algorithm is compatible with converging to the ground state energy density, while the greedy strategy is not. Inspired by the single-spin reluctant and greedy algorithms, we investigate two synchronous time algorithms, the sync-greedy and sync-reluctant algorithms. These synchronous processes can be analysed using dynamical mean field theory (DMFT), and a new backtracking version of DMFT. Notably, this is the first time the backtracking DMFT is applied to study dynamical convergence properties in fully connected disordered models. The analysis suggests that the sync-greedy algorithm can also achieve energies compatible with the ground state, and that it undergoes a dynamical phase transition.
Evaluating AI’s capability to reflect physical mechanisms: a case study of tropical cyclone impacts on extreme rainfall
Authors: Xu Hongxiong , Duan Yihong , Xu Xiangde
Published: August 2024

Tropical cyclones not only induce extreme precipitation events but also exert indirect influences on precipitation, a factor often underestimated in forecasting. Traditionally, these influences are identified using numerical sensitivity experiments with numerical models like the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, which require substantial computational resources. This study investigates the potential of the Artificial intelligence (AI)-based Pangu-Weather model to reveal these complex mechanisms by comparing its performance with the WRF model, focusing on Typhoon Khanun’s impact on the extreme rainfall event in North China from 29 July to 1 August 2023. Our analysis shows that Pangu-Weather effectively captures key atmospheric systems and TC positions, outperforming WRF. Specifically, WRF simulations excluding Khanun demonstrate a reduction in northward moisture transport on the eastern side of North China, but minimal impact on the extreme precipitation area for most of the period. Pangu-Weather successfully reproduces these processes, aligning closely with WRF at larger scales (e.g. greater than 300 km). However, Pangu-Weather struggles to discern and explain smaller-scale processes (e.g. less than 300 km). These findings highlight Pangu-Weather’s potential to advance meteorological research and disaster prevention, demonstrating AI’s capability to accurately depict complex large-scale physical processes.
Experimental study on the effects of composite reinforcement of ionic soil stabilizer and sand on bentonite
Authors: Wang Fenghua , Yuan Yuefeng , Hou Meiying , Wang Ailin , Yang Yani , Xiong Qian
Published: August 2024

This paper utilizes both the ionic soil stabilizer (ISS) and sand to strengthen bentonite, as ISS effectively reduces its expansive properties and sand rapidly improves its strength to reduce cracks. Various experiments are conducted to analyze the changes in physical and mechanical properties of the bentonite strengthened by ISS-sand (ISB). The results show that not only do the sand particles enhance the strength of bentonite, but also the ISS significantly reduces its expansibility. Furthermore, the mass ratio of sand to bentonite has different effects on the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and the freeze-tolerance of sand-reinforced bentonite (SB) and ISB. These findings suggest that a comprehensive consideration of the sand mixing rate is necessary when implementing ISS reinforcement on natural expansive soil.
Composite fault diagnosis of gearbox based on deep graph residual convolutional network
Authors: Fan Bingbing , Liu Chang , Chang Guochao , He Feifei , Liu Tao
Published: August 2024

In gearbox systems, a composite fault diagnosis resulting from mutual interference among different components poses a significant challenge. The traditional composite fault diagnosis methods based on conventional signal analyses and feature extractions often suffer from low sensitivity to fault characteristics and difficulty in effectively identifying composite faults. On the other hand, composite fault diagnosis research via deep learning and data-driven approaches typically faces issues such as incomplete training datasets and insufficient exploration of feature correlation information, leading to an underutilization of the fault information. Therefore, this paper proposes a deep graph residual convolutional neural network (DGRCN) based on feature correlation mining for composite fault diagnosis in gearboxes. First, Pearson correlation coefficients are utilized to explore the relationships among features in the traditional feature set, transforming these relationships into a graph-structured feature set. Next, a deep graph residual convolutional network is constructed by integrating deep graph structures into a residual framework. This network globally extracts composite fault subgraph features and explores local feature correlations. Finally, the model is trained via various composite fault datasets under complex working conditions, achieving the diagnosis and identification of composite faults under the constraint of limited samples. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method significantly improves composite fault diagnosis accuracy, outperforming commonly used methods in this field.
Gate mesa terminal with drain-field-plated β-Ga2O3 MOSFET with ultra-high power figure of merit
Authors: Zhang Yunfei , Luan Suzhen , Cheng Xuepei
Published: August 2024

In this article, a novel gate mesa terminal (GMT) device structure incorporating a drain field plate is proposed. This design features mesa terminals with varying bevel angles positioned atop the gate. The objective is to enhance the breakdown voltage (Vbr) and reduce the on-resistance (Ron) of the lateral β-Ga2O3 metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET). Through the implementation of the GMT structure, the peak electric field within the β-Ga2O3 MOSFET is redirected towards the passivation layer. This effectively mitigates the electric field in the epitaxial layer, thereby increasing Vbr. The optimal values for Vbr, specific on-resistance (Ron,sp) and maximum transconductance (gm) across various GMT structures are 4827 V, 9.9 mΩ·cm2 and 15.32 mS/mm, respectively. These metrics represent a 2.63-fold, 0.88-fold, and 1.25-fold improvement compared to the non-GMT structure. Additionally, when the doping concentration of epitaxial layer is 1 × 1016 cm−3, the GMT achieves an enhanced threshold voltage of +0.26 V. By simulating different bevel angles, field plate parameters, epitaxial layer doping concentrations, and mesa thicknesses, an optimal power figure of merit (PFOM) of 1.914 GW cm−2 is attained. This innovative design introduces a fresh concept for the development of the next generation of high voltage and high-power devices rated above 4 KV.
Towards a comprehensive visualisation of structure in large scale data sets
Authors: Garriga Joan , Bartumeus Frederic
Published: August 2024

Dimensionality reduction methods are fundamental to the exploration and visualisation of large data sets. Basic requirements for unsupervised data exploration are flexibility and scalability. However, current methods have computational limitations that restrict our ability to explore data structures to the lower range of scales. We focus on t-SNE and propose a chunk-and-mix protocol that enables the parallel implementation of this algorithm, as well as a self-adaptive parametric scheme that facilitates its parametric configuration. As a proof of concept, we present the pt-SNE algorithm, a parallel version of Barnes-Hat-SNE (an

O

(
n

log

n
)

implementation of t-SNE). In pt-SNE, a single free parameter for the size of the neighbourhood, namely the perplexity, modulates the visualisation of the data structure at different scales, from local to global. Thanks to parallelisation, the runtime of the algorithm remains almost independent of the perplexity, which extends the range of scales to be analysed. The pt-SNE converges to a good global embedding comparable to current solutions, although it adds little noise at the local scale. This noise illustrates an unavoidable trade-off between computational speed and accuracy. We expect the same approach to be applicable to faster embedding algorithms than Barnes-Hat-SNE, such as Fast-Fourier Interpolation-based t-SNE or Uniform Manifold Approximation and Projection, thus extending the state of the art and allowing a more comprehensive visualisation and analysis of data structures.
SpatialOne: end-to-end analysis of visium data at scale
Authors: Kamel Mena , Sarangi Amrut , Senin Pavel , Villordo Sergio , Sunaal Mathew , Barot Het , Wang Seqian , Solbas Ana , Cano Luis , Classe Marion , Bar-Joseph Ziv , Pla Planas Albert
Published: August 2024

Motivation

Spatial transcriptomics allow to quantify mRNA expression within the spatial context. Nonetheless, in-depth analysis of spatial transcriptomics data remains challenging and difficult to scale due to the number of methods and libraries required for that purpose.

Results

Here we present SpatialOne, an end-to-end pipeline designed to simplify the analysis of 10x Visium data by combining multiple state-of-the-art computational methods to segment, deconvolve, and quantify spatial information; this approach streamlines the analysis of reproducible spatial-data at scale.

Availability and implementation

SpatialOne source code and execution examples are available at https://github.com/Sanofi-Public/spatialone-pipeline, experimental data is available at https://zenodo.org/records/12605154. SpatialOne is distributed as a docker container image.
Effects of an online mindfulness-based intervention on brain haemodynamics: a pilot randomized controlled trial using functional near-infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Adachi Koichiro , Takizawa Ryu
Published: August 2024

Although many neuroimaging studies have evaluated changes in the prefrontal cortex during mindfulness-based interventions, most of these studies were cross-sectional studies of skilled participants or involved pre–post comparisons before and after a single session. While functional near-infrared spectroscopy is a useful tool to capture changes in the hemodynamic response of the prefrontal cortex during continuous mindfulness-based intervention, its ability to detect the accumulated effects of continuous mindfulness-based intervention is currently unclear. We investigated whether a 12-wk online mindfulness-based intervention changed the hemodynamic response of the prefrontal cortex during a verbal fluency task. Eighty-two healthy university students were randomly allocated to a 12-wk online mindfulness-based intervention group or a wait-list control group. The integral values of oxygenated hemoglobin measured using functional near-infrared spectroscopy before and after the intervention were compared to the values in the wait-list group. The intervention condition showed significantly greater functional near-infrared spectroscopy signal activation than the control condition; however, the effect sizes before and after the intervention were small. Thus, continuous mindfulness-based intervention could alter prefrontal cortex function, and functional near-infrared spectroscopy could be useful for measuring the accumulated effects of continuous mindfulness-based interventions. With a better understanding of the association between mindfulness and functional near-infrared spectroscopy signals, functional near-infrared spectroscopy can be used for biofeedback analyses.
Alzheimer’s disease risk gene CD2AP is a dose-sensitive determinant of synaptic structure and plasticity
Authors: Pavešković Matea , De-Paula Ruth B , Ojelade Shamsideen A , Tantry Evelyne K , Kochukov Mikhail Y , Bao Suyang , Veeraragavan Surabi , Garza Alexandra R , Srivastava Snigdha , Song Si-Yuan , Fujita Masashi , Duong Duc M , Bennett David A , De Jager Philip L , Seyfried Nicholas T , Dickinson Mary E , Heaney Jason D , Arenkiel Benjamin R , Shulman Joshua M
Published: August 2024

CD2-Associated protein (CD2AP) is a candidate susceptibility gene for Alzheimer’s disease, but its role in the mammalian central nervous system remains largely unknown. We show that CD2AP protein is broadly expressed in the adult mouse brain, including within cortical and hippocampal neurons, where it is detected at pre-synaptic terminals. Deletion of Cd2ap altered dendritic branching and spine density, and impaired ubiquitin-proteasome system activity. Moreover, in mice harboring either one or two copies of a germline Cd2ap null allele, we noted increased paired-pulse facilitation at hippocampal Schaffer-collateral synapses, consistent with a haploinsufficient requirement for pre-synaptic release. Whereas conditional Cd2ap knockout in the brain revealed no gross behavioral deficits in either 3.5- or 12-month-old mice, Cd2ap heterozygous mice demonstrated subtle impairments in discrimination learning using a touchscreen task. Based on unbiased proteomics, partial or complete loss of Cd2ap triggered perturbation of proteins with roles in protein folding, lipid metabolism, proteostasis, and synaptic function. Overall, our results reveal conserved, dose-sensitive requirements for CD2AP in the maintenance of neuronal structure and function, including synaptic homeostasis and plasticity, and inform our understanding of possible cell-type specific mechanisms in Alzheimer’s Disease.
Occurrence of blaNDM-1, blaNDM-5, blaNDM-7, and blaKPC-2 genes in clinical isolates of enterobacterales with high genetic variability, from colonization and infection in patients with or without COVID-19, from a hospital in Brazil
Authors: Martins Lamartine Rodrigues , Pimentel Maria Izabely Silva , de Oliveira Érica Maria , Jucá Moacir Batista , Beltrão Elizabeth Maria Bispo , Lopes Ana Catarina de Souza
Published: August 2024

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the presence of beta-lactams resistance genes and the clonal relationship of clinical isolates of Enterobacterales obtained from patients with and without COVID-19, in a hospital in northeastern Brazil.

Methods and results

The study analyzed 45 carbapenem-resistant clinical isolates using enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC-PCR), PCR, and amplicon sequencing to detect resistance genes (blaKPC, blaGES, blaNDM, blaVIM, and blaIMP). The main species were Klebsiella pneumoniae, Serratia marcescens, and Proteus mirabilis. Detected genes included blaNDM (46.66%), blaKPC (35.55%), and both (17.79%). ERIC-PCR showed multiclonal dissemination and high genetic variability. The main resistance gene was blaNDM, including blaNDM-5 and blaNDM-7.

Conclusions

The presence of Enterobacterales carrying blaKPC and blaNDM in this study, particularly K. pneumoniae, in infections and colonizations of patients with COVID-19 and non-COVID-19, highlights genetic variability and resistance to carbapenems observed in multiple species of this order.
Dietary xylo-oligosaccharides alleviates LPS-induced intestinal injury via endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondrial system pathway in piglets
Authors: Liu Guangmang , Sun Weixiao , Zhang Ruinan , Shen Fei , Jia Gang , Zhao Hua , Chen Xiaoling , Wang Jing
Published: August 2024

The beneficial effects of xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS) on the intestine have been widely reported, including anti-inflammation, antioxidant, maintenance of intestinal epithelial barrier, and treatment of intestinal injury. However, the specific mechanism of XOS in mitigating intestinal injury in weaned piglets remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the specific mechanism of XOS in mitigating intestinal injury. The study is a complete randomized design with 24 weaned piglets in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement that includes diet treatments (basal diet vs. 0.02% XOS) and immunological challenge [saline vs. lipopolysaccharide (LPS)]. All piglets were fed a basal diet or a XOS diet for 21 d. On day 22, all piglets received an injection of LPS or saline. In this study, dietary XOS increased jejunal villus height, reduced crypt depth and oxidative stress, and enhanced the gene and protein expression of Claudin-1, Occludin, and zonula occludens 1 (P < 0.05). The piglets fed the XOS diet had lower serum Diamine oxidase activity and d-lactic acid content (P < 0.05). In addition, dietary XOS regulates endoplasmic reticulum (ER)–mitochondria system function and the expression of key molecules, including mitochondrial dynamics dysfunction [mitofusin (Mfn)-1, optic atrophy 1, fission 1, and dynamin-related protein 1], ER stress [activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), ATF6, C/EBP-homologous protein, eukaryotic initiation factor 2α, glucose-regulated protein (GRP) 78, GRP94, and protein kinase R-like ER kinase] and the mitochondria-associated ER membranes (MAM) disorders (Mfn2, GRP75, and voltage-dependent anion channel 1) (P < 0.05). Therefore, the findings to indicate that dietary XOS is effective against LPS-induced jejunal injury may be attributed to its ability to alleviate mitochondrial dynamics dysfunction, ER stress, and MAM disorders.
Fractures by race and ethnicity in a diverse sample of postmenopausal women: a current evaluation among Hispanic and Asian origin groups
Authors: Wright Nicole C , Follis Shawna , Larson Joseph C , Crandall Carolyn J , Stefanick Marcia L , Ing Steven W , Cauley Jane A
Published: August 2024

Using 1998-2022 Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) data, our study provides contemporary fracture data by race and ethnicity, specifically focusing on Hispanic and Asian women. Fractures of interest included any clinical, hip, and major osteoporotic fractures (MOFs). We utilized the updated race and ethnicity information collected in 2003, which included seven Asian and five Hispanic origin groups. We computed crude and age-standardized fracture incidence rates per 10 000 woman-years across race and ethnic categories and by Asian and Hispanic origin. We used Cox proportional hazards model, adjusting for age and WHI clinical trial arm, to evaluate the risk of fracture (1) by race compared to White women, (2) Asian origin compared to White women, (3) Hispanic compared to non-Hispanic women, and (4) Asian and Hispanic origins compared the most prevalent origin group. Over a median (interquartile range) follow-up of 19.4 (9.2-24.2) years, 44.2% of the 160 824 women experienced any clinical fracture, including 36 278 MOFs and 8962 hip fractures. Compared to White women, Black, Pacific Islander, Asian, and multiracial women had significantly lower risk of any clinical and MOFs, while only Black and Asian women had significantly lower hip fracture risk. Within Asian women, Filipina women had 24% lower risk of any clinical fracture compared to Japanese women. Hispanic women had significantly lower risk of any clinical, hip, and MOF fractures compared to non-Hispanic women, with no differences in fracture risk observed within Hispanic origin groups. In this diverse sample of postmenopausal women, we confirmed racial and ethnic differences in fracture rates and risk, with novel findings among within Asian and Hispanic subgroups. These data can aid in future longitudinal studies evaluate contributors to racial and ethnic differences in fractures.
Dynamic diffusion
Authors: Bradford Anu , Chilton Adam , Linos Katerina
Published: August 2024

Research on legal diffusion typically focuses on laws’ initial adoption and ignores their later evolution. We develop a typology of three subsequent diffusion patterns: convergence, when countries revise laws to move closer to leading regulators; customization, when countries revise laws to move away from leading regulators; and stagnation, when countries cease legislating, leaving initially adopted laws in place. We then propose a general theory suggesting that economic size and geographic distance from leading regulators predict which of the three patterns countries follow. We explore this theory with case studies on the dynamic diffusion of antitrust laws in Russia, Colombia, and Australia.
Sterile activation of RNA-sensing pathways in autoimmunity
Authors: Li Jiaxin , Zhu Junyan , Yang Hui , Hou Fajian
Published: August 2024

RNA-sensing pathways play a pivotal role in host defense against pathogenic infections to maintain cellular homeostasis. However, in the absence of infection, certain endogenous RNAs can serve as the activators of RNA-sensing pathways as well. The inappropriate activation of RNA-sensing pathways by self-ligands leads to systemic inflammation and autoimmune diseases. In this review, we summarize current findings on the sterile activation of RNA sensors, as well as its implications in autoimmunity, inflammatory diseases, and therapeutics.
Catchment area and cancer population health research through a novel population-based statewide database: a scoping review
Authors: Spees Lisa P , Albaneze Natasha , Baggett Christopher D , Green Laura , Johnson Katie , Morris Hayley N , Salas Ana I , Olshan Andrew , Wheeler Stephanie B
Published: August 2024

Background

Population-based linked datasets are vital to generate catchment area and population health research. The novel Cancer Information and Population Health Resource (CIPHR) links statewide cancer registry data, public and private insurance claims, and provider- and area-level data, representing more than 80% of North Carolina’s large, diverse population of individuals diagnosed with cancer. This scoping review of articles that used CIPHR data characterizes the breadth of research generated and identifies further opportunities for population-based health research.

Methods

Articles published between January 2012 and August 2023 were categorized by cancer site and outcomes examined across the care continuum. Statistically significant associations between patient-, provider-, system-, and policy-level factors and outcomes were summarized.

Results

Among 51 articles, 42 reported results across 23 unique cancer sites and 13 aggregated across multiple sites. The most common outcomes examined were treatment initiation and/or adherence (n = 14), mortality or survival (n = 9), and health-care resource utilization (n = 9). Few articles focused on cancer recurrence (n = 1) or distance to care (n = 1) as outcomes. Many articles discussed racial, ethnic, geographic, and socioeconomic inequities in care.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate the value of robust, longitudinal, linked, population-based databases to facilitate catchment area and population health research aimed at elucidating cancer risk factors, outcomes, care delivery trends, and inequities that warrant intervention and policy attention. Lessons learned from years of analytics using CIPHR highlight opportunities to explore less frequently studied cancers and outcomes, motivate equity-focused interventions, and inform development of similar resources.
A big red dot: scattered light, host galaxy signatures, and multiphase gas flows in a luminous, heavily reddened quasar at cosmic noon
Authors: Stepney Matthew , Banerji Manda , Tang Shenli , Hewett Paul C , Temple Matthew J , Wethers Clare F , Puglisi Annagrazia , Molyneux Stephen J
Published: August 2024

We present a deep X-Shooter rest-frame ultraviolet (UV) to optical spectral analysis of the heavily reddened quasar, ULASJ2315+0143 at $z=2.566$, known to reside in a major-merger host galaxy. The rest-frame optical is best fit by a dust-reddened quasar (E(B – V)$^{\rm QSO}= 1.55$) with black-hole mass $\rm log_{10}(H\beta , M{\small BH} [{\rm M}_{\odot }]) = 10.26 \pm 0.05$, bolometric luminosity $\rm L_{Bol}$  = $\rm 10^{48.16}\, erg\,\,s^{-1}$ and Eddington-scaled accretion rate log$_{10}(\rm \lambda _{Edd}) = -0.19$. We find remarkable similarities between ULASJ2315+0143 and the high-redshift little red dots (LRDs). The rest-frame UV cannot be explained by a dusty quasar component alone and requires an additional blue component consistent with either a star-forming host galaxy or scattered AGN light. We detect broad high-ionization emission lines in the rest-UV, supporting the scattered light interpretation for the UV excess. The scattering fraction represents just 0.05  per cent of the total luminosity of ULASJ2315+0143 . Analysis of the mid-infrared SED suggests an absence of hot dust on torus-scales similar to what is observed for LRDs. The obscuring medium is therefore likely on galaxy scales. We detect narrow, blueshifted associated absorption-line systems in C iv, N v, Si iv, and Si iii. There is evidence for significant high-velocity (>1000 $\rm km\, s^{-1}$) outflows in both the broad- and narrow-line regions as traced by C iv and [O iii] emission. The kinetic power of the [O iii] wind is $\dot{\epsilon }_{k}^{ion} = 10^{44.61} \rm erg\, s^{-1} \sim 0.001\, L_{Bol}$. ULASJ2315+0143 is likely in an important transition phase where star formation, black-hole accretion and multiphase gas flows are simultaneously occurring.
Association between sidedness and survival among chemotherapy refractory metastatic colorectal cancer patients treated with trifluridine/tipiracil or regorafenib
Authors: Hsiao Kai-Yuan , Chen Hsin-Pao , Rau Kun-Ming , Liu Kuang-Wen , Shia Ben-Chang , Chang Wei-Shan , Liang Hao-Yun , Hsieh Meng-Che
Published: August 2024

Background

The impact of sidedness on survival of later-line treatment in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) is undetermined. This study aimed to investigate the association between sidedness and survival among chemotherapy refractory patients with mCRC treated with trifluridine/tipiracil (TAS-102) or regorafenib or both.

Patients and Methods

Patients with mCRC treated with TAS-102 or regorafenib between 2015 and 2020 was retrospectively collected. Patients were stratified into TAS-102 first and regorafenib first, then subdivided into TAS-102 followed by regorafenib (T-R) and regorafenib followed by TAS-102 (R-T) groups. The oncologic outcomes were presented with time-to-treatment failure (TTF) and overall survival (OS).

Results

After matching, 376 TAS-102 patients and 376 regorafenib patients were included for outcomes comparison. TTF had insignificant differences while OS was significantly different between TAS-102 and regorafenib groups. Median TTF and OS were 1.9 months versus 2.0 months (P = .701) and 9.1 months versus 7.0 months (P = .008) in TAS-102 and regorafenib, respectively. The OS benefits were consistent regardless primary tumor location. Subgroup analysis with 174 T-R patients and 174 R-T patients was investigated for treatment sequences. TTF and OS had significant differences in both groups. Median TTF and OS were 8.5 months versus 6.3 months (P = .001) and 14.4 months versus 12.6 months (P = .035) in T-R and R-T groups, respectively. The TTF and OS benefits were persisted regardless primary tumor location.

Conclusion

TAS-102 first provided a better survival benefit in chemotherapy refractory patients with mCRC across all sidedness. Further prospective studies are warranted to validate our conclusions.
Multimodal imaging of structural damage and inflammation in psoriatic arthritis: a comparison of DMARD-naive and DMARD-failure patients
Authors: Renkli Nağme Ö , Kleinrensink Nienke J , Spierings Julia , Mastbergen Simon , Vonkeman Harald E , Mooij Shasti C , Schipper Lydia G , Herman Amin , ten Katen Iris , Nap Frank J , Hol Marjolein E , de Jong Pim A , Jansen Mylène P , Foppen Wouter ,   and the TOFA-PREDICT Author Group, Bhansing Kavish J , van Bijnen Sandra T A , Bisoendial Radjesh J , Comarniceanu Antoaneta C , Bon Lenny Geurts-van , Jahangier Z Nazira , Jansen Tim L T A , Kok Marc R , van Kuijk Arno W R , Leijten Emmerik F A , van Tubergen Astrid M , Vreugdenhil Simone A , Wijngaarden Siska
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To compare inflammatory and structural differences in active PsA between DMARD-naive and DMARD-failure patients using diverse imaging approaches for future analyses. Additionally, to explore the influence of patient characteristics (clinical and demographic variables) on imaging findings.

Methods

Of the 80 patients included from the first cohort of the ongoing multicentre TOFA-PREDICT trial, 40 were DMARD-naive and 40 were DMARD-failure (csDMARD failure; one prior bDMARD excluding etanercept was allowed), all meeting classification criteria for PsA with a minimum disease duration of eight weeks. Baseline conventional radiographs of hands and feet, MRIs of both ankles, and whole-body [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose PET/CT (18F-FDG PET/CT) were evaluated for inflammatory and structural imaging parameters, including Sharp-van der Heijde (SHS), Heel Enthesitis Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scoring System (HEMRIS) and Deauville synovitis scoring. Differences between groups and the influence of patient characteristics were examined with multiple linear regression.

Results

At baseline, patient characteristics were similar between groups. Imaging parameters showed limited inflammation and structural damage. Inflammatory imaging parameters were not significantly different (P > 0.200). Among structural parameters, only HEMRIS Achilles tendon structural damage was significantly different (P = 0.024, R2 = 0.071) and SHS Joint Space Narrowing was not statistically significant (P = 0.050, R2 = 0.048) with higher values for both in DMARD failures. After correction of patient characteristics, these differences in imaging disappeared (both P > 0.600).

Conclusion

At baseline, PsA patient groups were comparable concerning structural and inflammatory imaging parameters, especially after correcting for patient characteristics. Thus, DMARD-naive and DMARD-failure patient groups may be combined in future PsA progression and treatment decision studies.

Trial registration

www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu. EudraCT: 2017–003900-28.
Effect of balanced vs. standard protein on muscle mass development in exercising horses
Authors: Graham-Thiers Patty M , Bowen L Kristen
Published: August 2024

Twelve horses weighing 570 ± 35 kg were split into two groups (standard protein, STD, and balanced protein, BAL) to evaluate the effect of balanced vs. unbalanced protein on muscle mass. Groups were fed grass hay and a 12% CP feed (one formulated for balanced protein). Horses were out of work for 14 wk prior and participated in 1 to 2 h of light-to-moderate exercise 5 d/wk for 12 wk. A 4-d total urine and feces collection period was conducted at the start and end of the study. Urine and feces samples were analyzed for nitrogen (N) to calculate N balance. Muscle mass status was evaluated using histochemistry, muscle scoring, and body measurements at the start and end of the study. Muscle biopsies were analyzed for free amino acid concentrations. An ANOVA was done using the Proc MIXED function of SAS (2006). Nitrogen retention was greater and urine nitrogen as a percent of intake less for the STD group at the end of the study (P = 0.01). Muscle free concentrations of methionine, leucine, phenylalanine, and arginine were greater in the BAL group at the end of the study compared to the STD group (P < 0.04) while muscle free histidine, threonine, and valine were less for the STD group at the end of the study compared to the start of the study (P < 0.05). Muscle fiber diameters were greater at the start of the study for the STD group (P = 0.004) but greater for the BAL group at the end of the study (P = 0.001). There is some evidence of improved muscle mass for the BAL group with greater muscle free amino acids (arginine, leucine, methionine, phenylalanine, and valine) as well as greater type II muscle fiber areas and diameters. While changes did not appear evident between groups at the “whole body” level, changes at the tissue level appear more evident.
Validation of PCR Diagnostic Assays for Detection and Identification of All Ralstonia solanacearum Sequevars Causing Moko Disease in Banana
Authors: Rincón-Flórez Vivian A. , Carvalhais Lilia C. , Silva Adriano M. F. , McTaggart Alistair , Ray Jane D. , O'Dwyer Cecilia , Roberts Janet M. , Souza Elineide B. , Albuquerque Greecy M. R. , Drenth André
Published: August 2024

Moko disease in banana is a bacterial wilt caused by strains within Ralstonia solanacearum sensu stricto. The disease is endemic to Central and South America but has spread to the Philippines and peninsular Malaysia. Detecting new incursions early in Moko-free banana production regions is of utmost importance for containment and eradication, as Moko management significantly increases costs in banana production. Molecular studies have supported the classification of R. solanacearum sensu stricto into phylotypes IIA, IIB, and IIC, each comprising various sequevars based on nucleotide divergence of a partial sequence within the endoglucanase gene. Moko disease in banana is caused by strains classified as sequevars 6, 24, 41, and 53 within phylotype IIA and sequevars 3, 4, and 25 within phylotype IIB. To ensure accurate diagnostic assays are available to detect all Moko sequevars, we systematically validated previously published assays for Moko diagnostics. To be able to identify all sequevars, including the latest described sequevars, namely IIB-25, IIA-41, and IIA-53, we developed and validated two novel assays using genome-wide association studies on over 100 genomes of R. solanacearum sensu stricto. Validations using 196 bacterial isolates confirmed that a previous multiplex PCR-based assay targeting sequevars IIB-3, IIB-4, IIA-6, and IIA-24 and our two novel assays targeting sequevars IIB-25, IIA-41, and IIA-53 were specific, reproducible, and accurate for Moko diagnostics.
Plant-Associated Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Database (PVD): A Resource Supporting Research on VOCs Produced by Plants and Plant-Associated Microbes
Authors: Shao Danying , Schlagnhaufer Carl , Bandara Ananda , Esker Paul D. , Kim Seong H. , Kellogg Joshua , Jang Ji-Soo , Kang Seogchan
Published: August 2024

Diverse volatile organic compounds (VOCs) perform functions crucial for plant growth and health. However, studies on the nature and mechanisms of action of bioactive VOCs, except those mediating plant-insect interactions, lag considerably behind those on waterborne compounds. We built the Plant-Associated VOC Database (PVD) to facilitate research on VOCs released by plants and plant-associated microbes. This platform presents the physicochemical characteristics, biosynthetic pathways, and known or hypothesized functions of VOCs. We present the design, utility, and planned expansion of PVD.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Platelets at the intersection of inflammation and coagulation in the APC‐mediated response to myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Slotabec Lily , Seale Blaise , Wang Hao , Wen Changhong , Filho Fernanda , Rouhi Nadiyeh , Adenawoola Michael I. , Li Ji
Published: August 2024

Thromboinflammation is a complex pathology associated with inflammation and coagulation. In cases of cardiovascular disease, in particular ischemia–reperfusion injury, thromboinflammation is a common complication. Increased understanding of thromboinflammation depends on an improved concept of the mechanisms of cells and proteins at the axis of coagulation and inflammation. Among these elements are activated protein C and platelets. This review summarizes the complex interactions of activated protein C and platelets regulating thromboinflammation in cardiovascular disease. By unraveling the pathways of platelets and APC in the inflammatory and coagulation cascades, this review summarizes the role of these vital mediators in the development and perpetuation of heart disease and the thromboinflammation‐driven complications of cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, this review emphasizes the significance of the counteracting effects of platelets and APC and their combined role in disease states.
Incremental Yield of Whole-Genome Sequencing Over Chromosomal Microarray Analysis and Exome Sequencing for Congenital Anomalies in Prenatal Period and Infancy: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Shreeve N. , Sproule C. , Choy K. W. , Dong Z. , Gajewska-Knapik K. , Kilby M. D. , Mone F.
Published: August 2024

(Abstracted from Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2024;63:15–23

Congenital anomalies can be diagnosed prenatally through genetic testing, including exome sequencing (ES), quantitative fluorescence polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR), and chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA), in addition to whole-genome sequencing (WGS). Each method has anomalies it can better detect, with WGS having the greatest diagnostic capability.
Genicular Nerve Block for Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Vilchez-Cavazos Félix , Gamboa Alonso Augusto A. , Simental-Mendía Mario , Peña-Martínez Víctor M. , Acosta-Olivo Carlos A. , Villarreal-Villarreal Gregorio A.
Published: August 2024

Objectives:

Genicular nerve block (GNB) has emerged as a novel nonsurgical therapy for symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The objective was to evaluate GNB versus placebo and other intra-articular (IA) therapies.

Methods:

The Medline, Embase, and Scopus databases were searched from their inception to January 2021. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. A random-effects model and the generic inverse variance method were used for quantitative data synthesis. Heterogeneity was tested with the I
2 index.

Results:

Regarding pain statistically significant scores were demonstrated at 1 and 3 months overall total effect of 1.43 (95% CI, 0.86, 1.99; P=0.00001; I
2=85%). Similarly, for knee function a total effect of 0.71 (95% CI, 0.35, 1.06; P=0.00001; I
2=69%) at 1 and 3 months, statistically significant. The minimal clinically important difference regarding pain was achieved at 1 and 3 months.

Discussion:

Although, GNB achieved the MCID for KOA pain and statistically significant results for knee functions. We cannot recommend its routine use besides being a safe procedure so far, evidence is fair on GNB for primary KOA due to study heterogeneity and limited follow-up.