bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Method of Skin Wound Management for Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chen Zhongming , Bains Sandeep S. , Sax Oliver C. , Sodhi Nipun , Mont Michael A.
Published: April 2023

Skin closure for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) typically focuses on promoting optimal healing, while preventing wound complications and infection, allowing for functionality and immediate ambulation, and providing for excellent cosmesis. In this systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature, we will focus on closure of the skin. Specifically, we assessed: (1) wound complication risk of different techniques and (2) closing time of different sutures/techniques. There were 20 reports on infection risk and closing time. Meta-analyses focused on the qualifying studies for closing time and wound complication risk reports were also performed. These studies (378 patients) demonstrated overall lower wound complication risks with the use of barbed compared with traditional sutures (3% vs. 6%, p < 0.05). The subsequent meta-analysis included 749 patients demonstrating overall significant closing time reductions of a mean of 7 minutes with the use of barbed sutures (p < 0.05). Therefore, multiple recent reports suggest superior outcomes and faster results when using barbed sutures for TKA skin closure.
On-the-fly nonadiabatic dynamics of caffeic acid sunscreen compound
Authors: Kang Xu , Zhu Yifei , Zhang Juanjuan , Xu Chao , Lan Zhenggang
Published: April 2023

As a widely-used sunscreen compound, the caffeic acid (CA) shows the strong UV absorption, while the photoinduced reaction mechanisms behind its photoprotection ability are not fully understood. We try to investigate the photoinduced internal conversion dynamics of CA in order to explore the photoprotection mechanism. The most stable CA isomer is selected to examine its nonadiabatic dynamics using the on-the-fly surface hopping simulations at the semi-empirical level of electronic-structure theory. The dynamics starting from different electronic states are simulated to explore the dependence of the photoinduced reaction channels on the excitation wavelengths. Several S1/S0 conical intersections, driven by the H-atom detachments and the ring deformations, have been found to be responsible for the nonadiabatic decay of the CA. The simulation results show that the branching ratios towards these intersections are modified by the light with different excitation energies. This provides the valuable information for the understanding of the photoprotection mechanism of the CA compound.
Ultrafast proton coupled electron transfer between tryptophan and tyrosine in peptides Trp-Pron-Tyr
Authors: Li Haoyang , Cao Simin , Zhang Sanjun , Chen Jinquan , Xu Jianhua
Published: April 2023

A series of model peptides (Trp-Pron-Tyr, WPnY, n=O, 1, 2, 3, 5), which contain tryptophan (Trp, W), tyrosine (Tyr, Y), and proline (Pro, P), have been studied under three typical pH conditions (3, 7, and 10) by steady-state absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy, nanosecond time-resolved fluorescence and femtosecond time-resolved transient absorption spectroscopy. When the peptide’s chain length is increased, Trp fluorescence quenching is expected to be gradually weakened. However, Trp fluorescence in WPY is strongly quenched and reveals even stronger quenching with increasing pH values, whose hypochromicity is clearly different from other model peptides. Transient absorption spectra also demonstrate that the excited state decay of WPY is much faster than that of other model peptides, especially at pH = 10. It is attributed to the efficient proton coupled electron transfer (PCET) between Trp and Tyr. Moreover, due to the very short distance between Trp and Tyr in WPY, this PCET process could be achieved by “direct transfer”, contrasted with the slow and long-range PCET process in other model peptides. Our results of the dipeptides WY and WP further suggest that Trp may also have more complex interactions with the peptide backbone or proline in those peptides. This work provides an experimental evidence for the electron transfer mechanism in WY dyads, which can help ones to understand how to reduce Trp radicals in proteins.
Selective preparation of light olefins from cellulose-derived fermentation intermediates
Authors: Lou Danfeng , Zhang Rui , Luo Yuehui , Li Quanxin
Published: April 2023

Directional synthesis of bio-based light olefins has great significance for promoting sustainable development of chemical industry. Present work proves that light olefins can be selectively prepared from the cellulose-derived acetonebutanol-ethanol. This transformation has been achieved by coupling cellulose fermentation and acetone-butanolethanol catalytic dehydration over the Ce@SAPO-34 catalyst. The active sites and reusability of the catalyst were investigated. High acetone-butanolethanol conversion (91.9%) and high olefin selectivity (86.1%) are achieved. Based on the study of the individual components in acetone-butanol-ethanol, the reaction pathways are put forward.
Effects of fluorescent pair on the kinetics of DNA strand displacement reaction
Authors: Li Chengxu , Xiao Shiyan , Liang Haojun
Published: April 2023

Fluorescent labels are widely used in the characterizations of DNA-based reaction network operations. We systematically studied the effects of commonly used fluorescent pairs on thermal stabilities of signal-substrate duplex and the strand displacement kinetics. It is demonstrated that the modifications of duplex with fluorescent pairs stabilize DNA duplex by up to 3.5 °C, and the kinetics of DNA strand displacement circuit is also evidently slowed down. These results highlight the importance of fluorescent pairs towards the kinetic modulation in designing nucleic acid probes and complex DNA dynamic circuits.
Sunlight and red to far-red ratio impact germination of tropical montane cloud forest species
Authors: Hoyle Gemma L. , Stevens Amelia V. , Guja Lydia K. , Sommerville Karen D. , Worboys Stuart , Crayn Darren M.
Published: April 2023

Context Australia’s tropical montane cloud forests (TMCF) exhibit exceptional species richness and endemism. Determinants of regeneration via seed of these species are next to unknown, limiting our ability to quantify and project their vulnerability to climate change. The ratio of red to far-red light (R:FR) has been shown to influence seed germination of many tropical species. Aims We investigated germination of six previously unstudied TMCF species in relation to the presence or absence of light (light/dark) and light quality (R:FR). We hypothesised that increased R:FR would lead to increased germination and that small-seeded species would be more likely to have a light requirement and be less sensitive to R:FR compared to larger-seeded species. Methods Sunlight and polyester filters were used to create a gradient of R:FR ranging from 0.1 to 1.14. Seeds were also sown in constant darkness. Key results Across species we saw varying germination responses. Three of the four smallest-seeded species exhibited an absolute light requirement for germination and did not discriminate between different R:FR. Germination of the small-seeded TMCF endemic Dracophyllum increased exponentially with increasing R:FR. Germination of the largest-seeded species was inhibited by both low and high R:FR, and germination was higher in constant darkness than diurnal light/dark. All six species were able to germinate at remarkably low R:FR values. Conclusions Light affects seed germination of Australia’s TMCF plant species in a variety of ways. Implications The findings of this study provide insights into plant recruitment in situ, and the acclimation potential of these species under reduced R:FR predicted for the future.
The effects of spring versus summer heat events on two arid zone plant species under field conditions
Authors: Milner K. V. , French K. , Krix D. W. , Valenzuela S. M. , Leigh A.
Published: April 2023

Heatwaves are increasingly occurring out-of-season, which may affect plants not primed for the event. Further, heat stress often coincides with water and/or nutrient stress, impairing short-term physiological function and potentially causing downstream effects on reproductive fitness. We investigated the response of water-stressed arid-zone Solanum oligacanthum and Solanum orbiculatum to spring vs summer heat stress under differing nutrient conditions. Heat stress events were imposed in open-topped chambers under in situ desert conditions. To assess short-term impacts, we measured leaf photosystem responses (Fv/Fm) and membrane stability; long-term effects were compared via biomass allocation, visible damage, flowering and fruiting. Plants generally fared more poorly following summer than spring heat stress, with the exception of Fv/Fm. Summer heat stress caused greater membrane damage, reduced growth and survival compared with spring. Nutrient availability had a strong influence on downstream effects of heat stress, including species-specific outcomes for reproductive fitness. Overall, high temperatures during spring posed a lower threat to fitness than in severe arid summer conditions of high temperature and low water availability, which were more detrimental to plants in both the short and longer term. Our study highlights the importance of considering ecologically relevant, multiple-stressor events to understand different species responses to extreme heat.
Searching for the roots of signs in children’s early gestures
Authors: Capirci Olga , Proietti Morgana , Volterra Virginia
Published: April 2023

A consolidated tendency considers ‘gestures’ and ‘signs’ as distinct categories separated by a ‘cataclysmic
break’. According to a different approach, gestures and signs have their common origin in actions, and are considered as part of
language. The aim of this study was to compare the productions of preschool speaking hearing children and signing deaf children in
response to the same visual stimuli. The execution parameters and representational strategies observed in gestures and signs were
analyzed using the same coding. The results showed that hearing children exposed to Italian and deaf children exposed to Italian
Sign Language are consistent in their productions of gestures and signs, respectively. Furthermore, the hearing children’s
gestures and the deaf children’s signs for some items were produced with the same parameters and according to similar
representational strategies. This indicates that these two forms of communication are not separate behaviors, but should rather be
considered as a continuum.
Social appropriateness in HMI
Authors: Wullenkord Ricarda , Bellon Jacqueline , Gransche Bruno , Nähr-Wagener Sebastian , Eyssel Friederike
Published: April 2023

Social appropriateness is an important topic – both in the human-human interaction (HHI), and in the human-machine interaction (HMI) context. As sociosensitive and socioactive assistance systems advance, the question arises whether a machine’s behavior should include considerations regarding social appropriateness. However, the concept of social appropriateness is difficult to define, as it is determined by multiple aspects. Thus, to date, a unified perspective, encompassing and combining multidisciplinary findings, is missing. When translating results from HHI to HMI, it remains unclear whether such insights into the dynamics of social appropriateness between humans may in fact apply to sociosensitive and socioactive assistance systems. To shed light on this matter, we propose the Five Factor Model of Social Appropriateness (FASA) which provides a multidisciplinary perspective on the notion of social appropriateness and its implementation into technical systems. Finally, we offer reflections on the applicability and ethics of the FASA Model, highlighting both strengths and limitations of the framework.
An epistemic logic for formalizing group dynamics of agents
Authors: Costantini Stefania , Formisano Andrea , Pitoni Valentina
Published: April 2023

In the multi-agent setting, it is relevant to model group dynamics of agents, and logic has proved a good tool to do so. We propose an epistemic logic, L-DINF-E, that allows one to formalize what are the beliefs formed by a group of agents, where several groups exist and agents can pass from a group to another one. We introduce a new modality which allows an agent to reason about the beliefs of other agents. This allows us to model aspects of the “Theory of Mind”, understood as the set of social-cognitive skills involving the ability to attribute and reason about mental states, desires, beliefs, and knowledge of agents. In this paper, we present the logic L-DINF-E and illustrate how it can be used to solve “false-belief tasks”, i.e., tests in which an agent should understand that some other agent may develop, under some circumstances, false beliefs.
Toward understanding the effects of socially aware robot behavior
Authors: Roesler Oliver , Bagheri Elahe , Aly Amir
Published: April 2023

A key factor for the acceptance of robots as regular partners in human-centered environments is the appropriateness and predictability of their behaviors, which depend partially on the robot behavior’s conformity to social norms. Previous experimental studies have shown that robots that follow social norms and the corresponding interactions are perceived more positively by humans than robots or interactions that do not adhere to social norms. However, the conducted studies only focused on the effects of social norm compliance in specific scenarios. Therefore, this paper aims to guide further research studies by compiling how researchers in relevant research fields think the perception of robots and the corresponding interactions are influenced independently of a specific scenario if a robot’s behavior conforms to social norms. Additionally, this study investigates what characteristics and metrics constitute a good general benchmark to objectively evaluate the behavior of social robots regarding its conformity to social norms according to researchers in relevant research communities. Finally, the paper summarizes how the obtained results can guide future research toward socially aware robot behavior.
Stacking and layer dependence of magnetic properties in Ti2C and Fe2C
Authors: Sarmah Himangshu Sekhar , Ghosh Subhradip
Published: April 2023

Magnetic MXenes are becoming an important family of materials for exploring 2D magnetism. However, investigations into the interdependence of layer thickness, stacking patterns and magnetism in these materials, from a microscopic point of view, are still lacking. In this work, we have used density functional theory based calculations to understand the effects of layer thickness and stacking on the magnetic properties in two magnetic MXenes, Ti2C and Fe2C, in their monolayer and bilayer forms. The ground-state magnetic structures, magnetic moments, magnetic exchange interactions, magnetic transition temperatures and magnetic anisotropy energies are calculated and analysed using their electronic structures and standardised models. We find that in both systems an increase in layer thickness (monolayer to bilayer) affects the ground-state magnetic configuration, which is driven by the changes in the magnetic exchange interactions. While the effects of the stacking pattern are rather weak in Ti2C, they are substantial, both qualitatively and quantitatively, in Fe2C. The computed results are analysed from their electronic structures. The results suggest that fascinating physical effects can be obtained in Fe2C by tuning the layer thickness and stacking patterns, making it more suitable for device applications.
Skyrmion crystal phases in Kondo lattice model on triangular lattices
Authors: Jana Satyabrata , Reja Sahinur
Published: April 2023

Very often the magnetic skyrmions (topologically protected spin textures) form a triangular crystal in chiral magnets. Here we study the effect of itinerant electrons on the structure of skyrmion crystal (SkX) on triangular lattice using Kondo lattice model in the large coupling limit and treating the localized spins as classical vectors. To simulate the system, we employ hybrid Markov Chain Monte Carlo method (hMCMC) which includes electron diagonalization in each MCMC update for classical spins. We present the low-temperature results for

12
×
12

system at electron density

n
=
1

/

3

which show a sudden jump in skyrmion number reducing the size of the skyrmions when we increase the hopping strength of the itinerant electrons. We find that this high skyrmion number SkX phase is stabilized by a combined effect: lowering of density of states at electron filling

n
=
1

/

3

and also pushing the bottom energy states further down. We show that these results hold for larger

24
×
24

system using traveling cluster variation of hMCMC. We expect that itinerant triangular magnets might exhibit the possible transition between low-density to high-density SkX phases by applying external pressure.
Role of symmetry in quantum blocking of Andreev reflection in graphene nanoribbons side-terminated by superconductors
Authors: Takagaki Y
Published: April 2023

Andreev reflection can be forbidden by means of quantum interference when superconductors are attached at the side edges of graphene nanoribbons (GNRs). The blocking is restricted to single-mode nanoribbons having symmetric zigzag edges and is destroyed by the application of a magnetic field. These characteristics are shown to be the effects of the wavefunction parity on the Andreev retro and specular reflections. Not only the mirror symmetry of the GNRs but also symmetric coupling of the superconductors is required for the quantum blocking. The quasi-flat-band states around the Dirac point energy induced for armchair nanoribbons by adding carbon atoms at the nanoribbon edges do not cause the quantum blocking due to the lack of the mirror symmetry. Furthermore, the phase modulation by the superconductors is shown to be able to convert the quasi-flat dispersion for the edge states of zigzag nanoribbons to a quasi-vertical dispersion.
Optimized superconducting MgB2 joint made by IMD technique
Authors: Avcı Doğan , Yetiş Hakan , Gajda Daniel , Babij Michal , Tran Lan Maria , Karaboğa Fırat , Aksoy Canan , Zaleski Andrzej , Belenli Ibrahim
Published: April 2023

A novel type of superconducting joining technique has been introduced to join unreacted internal Mg diffusion (IMD) single-core MgB2 wires. Our method is based on fabricating a small diameter joint mould obtained by deforming an Nb/Cu composite tube with a longitudinal semi-cylindrical Mg and B core into a thick round wire. The small diameter of the joint provided advantages such as rapid cooling, low resistance, and the unique core design inside the joint ensured a uniform MgB2 phase formation. Scanning electron microscope analysis revealed that the IMD MgB2 wires had excellent contact with the superconducting MgB2 bulk material inside the joint. The joint resistance, calculated from the decay of the trapped magnetic field over time, is a quite low value of 6.44 × 10−16 Ω at 20 K. The transport critical current (I
c) of the joint is 62 A at 20 K under a self-magnetic field, and the n-value of the joint is 66 at 20 K under 1.5 T. The results showed that the I
c of our joint can be determined precisely, regardless of whether the magnetic field is applied from low to high or from high to low value during I–V measurements.
Current-phase relation of a short multi-mode Bi2Se3 topological insulator nanoribbon Josephson junction with ballistic transport modes
Authors: Surendran Ananthu P , Montemurro Domenico , Kunakova Gunta , Palermo Xavier , Niherysh Kiryl , Trabaldo Edoardo , Golubev Dmitry S , Andzane Jana , Erts Donats , Lombardi Floriana , Bauch Thilo
Published: April 2023

We used the asymmetric superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) technique to extract the current phase relation (CPR) of a Josephson junction with a 3D-topological insulator (3D-TI) Bi2Se3 nanobelt as the barrier. The obtained CPR shows deviations from the standard sinusoidal CPR with a pronounced forward skewness. At temperatures below 200 mK, the junction skewness values are above the zero temperature limit for short diffusive junctions. Fitting of the extracted CPR shows that most of the supercurrent is carried by ballistic topological surface states (TSSs), with a small contribution of diffusive channels primarily due to the bulk. These findings are instrumental in engineering devices that can fully exploit the properties of the topologically protected surface states of 3D TIs.
Study of the optical force on nano-structured surfaces
Authors: Yuan Yukun , Gu Chunyang , Huang Siyu , Chen Shufan , Li Zexiao , Fang Fengzhou
Published: April 2023

The optical force is a miniscule force originating from light–matter interactions and ranging from a few nano-Newtons to micro-Newtons. This study demonstrates that this force can be enhanced or changed using structured surfaces. The mechanism is studied through a resonant-excited electromagnetic field on a periodic nano-structured surface. The quantitative relationship between the periodic structure and the resultant force is determined using finite element analysis, and the experimental results are in good agreement with the theoretical analysis. Compared to planar reflectors, the optical force can be greatly amplified on periodic cavity structures, depending on the cavity parameters. The findings of this study can serve a wide range of applications, such as opto-mechanical systems and sensitive detection of laser power.
Invisible neutrino decays as origin of TeV gamma rays from GRB221009A
Authors: Huang Jihong , Wang Yilin , Yu Bingrong , Zhou Shun
Published: April 2023

Recently, the LHAASO collaboration has observed the gamma rays of energies up to ten TeV from the gamma-ray burst GRB221009A, which has stimulated the community of astronomy, particle physics and astrophysics to propose various possible interpretations. In this paper, we put forward a viable scenario that neutrinos are produced together with TeV photons in the gamma-ray burst and gradually decay into the axion-like particles, which are then converted into gamma rays in the galactic magnetic fields. In such a scenario, the tension between previous axion-like particle interpretations and the existing observational constraints on the relevant coupling constant and mass can be relaxed.
Medium grain niobium SRF cavity production technology for science frontiers and accelerator applications
Authors: Myneni G. , Ciovati G. , Dhakal P. , Rimmer R.A. , Khanal B.D. , Dohmae T. , Saeki T. , Umemori K. , Yamanaka M. , Michizono S. , Carl M. , Fajardo A. , Lannoy N. , Elsayed-Ali H.E. , Islam Md O. , Sayeed Md N. , Kumar A. , Yamamoto A.
Published: April 2023

We present the cost-effective production of superconducting
radio frequency (SRF) cavities made of medium grain (MG) niobium
(Nb) discs directly sliced from forged and annealed billet. This
production method provides clean surface conditions and reliable
mechanical characteristics with sub-millimeter average grain size
resulting in stable SRF cavity production. We propose to apply this
material to particle accelerator in the science and industrial
applications. The science applications require high field
gradients(≥ 30 MV/m) particularly in pulsed mode. The
industrial applications require high Q
0 values with moderate
gradients (∼ 20 MV/m) in CW mode operation. This paper
describes the MG Nb disc production recently demonstrated and
discusses future prospects for application in advanced particle
accelerators in the science and industrial applications.
Review of linear and nonlinear models in breath analysis by Cyranose 320
Authors: Arrieta Maryan , Swanson Barbara , Fogg Louis , Bhushan Abhinav
Published: April 2023

Analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in breath specimens has potential for point of care (POC) screening due to ease of sample collection. While the electronic nose (e-nose) is a standard VOC measure across a wide range of industries, it has not been adopted for POC screening in healthcare. One limitation of the e-nose is the absence of mathematical models of data analysis that yield easily interpreted findings at POC. The purposes of this review were to (1) examine the sensitivity/specificity results from studies that analyzed breath smellprints using the Cyranose 320, a widely used commercial e-nose, and (2) determine whether linear or nonlinear mathematical models are superior for analyzing Cyranose 320 breath smellprints. This systematic review was conducted according to the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses using keywords related to e-nose and breath. Twenty-two articles met the eligibility criteria. Two studies used a linear model while the rest used nonlinear models. The two studies that used a linear model had a smaller range for mean of sensitivity and higher mean (71.0%–96.0%; M = 83.5%) compared to the studies that used nonlinear models (46.9%–100%; M = 77.0%). Additionally, studies that used linear models had a smaller range for mean of specificity and higher mean (83.0%–91.5%; M = 87.2%) compared to studies that used nonlinear models (56.9%–94.0%; M = 76.9%). Linear models achieved smaller ranges for means of sensitivity and specificity compared to nonlinear models supporting additional investigations of their use for POC testing. Because our findings were derived from studies of heterogenous medical conditions, it is not known if they generalize to specific diagnoses.
Challenges and recent progress in carbon-based nanocomposites for sportswear and sensing applications
Authors: Yang Leiming
Published: April 2023

Sportswear is an essential auxiliary wear for physical education activities in colleges and universities. Unfortunately, most sports equipment is made of heavyweight, expensive, and easily rusted metals. Herein, we report the recent progress in carbon-based nanocomposites for sportswear and sensors. To extend the service life of sportswear, advanced lightweight materials for sports goods are briefly discussed. Carbon materials such as 0D fullerenes, 1D carbon nanotubes, 2D graphene, and 3D graphite and their nanocomposites are more and more widely used in various industries in the world, and sportswear has no exceptions. Their superior performance and huge potential have a certain impact on improving sports performance. Firstly, we overviewed the advantages and multifunctional carbon nanocomposites in sportswear, and wearable sports applications at the present stage are explored. While simultaneously monitoring health or energy storage applications also explored, indeed the integration of all desirable functions into lightweight wearable sports goods emerged as a significant breakthrough for effective sports activities. More importantly, some sportswear prototypes equipped with unprecedented characteristics have also been overviewed in this review. Despite the recent developments, many barriers and difficulties still remain. New prospects are also suggested. This article seeks to inspire sports research communities to drive onward real-time advancement in the sports industry.
Comparative study on the degradation of phenol by a high-voltage pulsed discharge above a liquid surface and under a liquid surface
Authors: ZHAO Quanfa , WU Haixia , SHEN Wang , HAN Xiao , ZHENG Bin , FAN Jiawei
Published: April 2023

The degradation of phenol by pulsed discharge plasma above a liquid surface (APDP) and under a liquid surface (UPDP) was compared. The effects of discharge voltage, discharge distance, initial solution conductivity and initial pH on the removal of phenol were studied. It was concluded that the removal of phenol increases with increasing discharge voltage and with decreasing discharge distance in both APDP and UPDP systems. An increase in the initial solution’s conductivity has a positive effect in the APDP system but a negative effect in the UPDP system. In addition, alkaline conditions are conducive to the degradation of phenol in the APDP system, while acidic conditions are conducive in the UPDP system. Free radical quenching experiments revealed that ·O−
2 has an important influence on the degradation of phenol in the APDP system, while ·OH plays a key role in the UPDP system. This paper verifies the differences in the two discharge methods in terms of phenol removal.
Probability of continued local-scale warming and extreme events during and after decarbonization
Authors: Diffenbaugh Noah S , Barnes Elizabeth A , Keys Patrick W
Published: April 2023

Although achieving net-zero emissions is very likely to stabilize the long-term global temperature, the possibility of continued warming and extreme events could cause those efforts to be perceived as a failure if there is an expectation that stabilizing global temperature will also stabilize local and regional climate. Leveraging decarbonization scenarios from multiple global climate models, we find that much of the world faces >30% probability of decadal warming after net-zero CO2 emissions are achieved, with most areas exhibiting sustained probability of extreme hot and wet events. Further, substantial fractions of the global population and gross domestic product could experience post-net-zero warming, including hundreds of millions of people and trillions of dollars in the United States, China and India during the decade following net-zero. This likelihood suggests that some of the most populous, wealthy, and powerful regions may experience climatic conditions that could be perceived—at least in the near-term—to indicate that climate stabilization policies have failed, highlighting the importance of adaptation for ensuring that communities are prepared for the climate variations that will inevitably occur during and after decarbonization.
Origin, importance, and predictive limits of internal climate variability
Authors: Lehner Flavio , Deser Clara
Published: April 2023

Adaptation to climate change has now become a necessity for many regions. Yet, adaptation planning at regional scales over the next few decades is challenging given the contingencies originating from a combination of different sources of climate projection uncertainty, chief among them internal variability. Here, we review the causes and consequences of internal climate variability, how it can be quantified and accounted for in uncertainty assessments, and what research questions remain most pertinent to better understand its predictive limits and consequences for science and society. This perspective argues for putting internal variability into the spotlight of climate adaptation science and intensifying collaborations between the climate modeling and application communities.
The Perceived Stress Scale as a Measure of Stress: Decomposing Score Variance in Longitudinal Behavioral Medicine Studies
Authors: Harris Kristie M , Gaffey Allison E , Schwartz Joseph E , Krantz David S , Burg Matthew M
Published: April 2023

Background

The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) is a widely used measure designed to assess perceptions of recent stress. However, it is unclear to what extent the construct assessed by the PSS represents factors that are stable versus variable within individuals, and how these components might vary over time.

Purpose

Determine the degree to which variability in repeated PSS assessments is attributable to between-person versus within-person variance in two different studies and populations.

Methods

Secondary analyses utilized data from two studies with up to 13 PSS assessments: An observational study of 127 patients with heart failure followed over 39 months (Study 1), and an experimental study of 73 younger, healthy adults followed over 12 months (Study 2). Multilevel linear mixed modeling was used to estimate sources of variance in the PSS total and subscale scores across assessments.

Results

Between-person variance accounted for a large proportion of the total variance in PSS total scores in Study 1 (42.3%) and Study 2 (51.1%); within-person variance comprised the remainder. Between-person variance was higher for shorter assessment periods (e.g., 1 week), and was comparable when examining only the first 12 months of assessments in each study (52.9% vs. 51.1%).

Conclusions

Within two samples differing in age and health status, between-person variance accounted for approximately half of the total variation in PSS scores over time. While within-person variance was observed, the construct assessed by the PSS may substantially reflect a more stable characteristic of how an individual perceives stressful life circumstances than previously appreciated.
Association Between Body Mass Index and Nonspecific Recurrent Low Back Pain in Over 600,000 Healthy Young Adults
Authors: Nitecki Maya , Shapiro Galina , Orr Omri , Levitin Ehud , Sharshevsky Hadasa , Tzur Dorit , Twig Gilad , Shapira Shachar
Published: April 2023

An association between body mass index (BMI; weight (kg)/height (m)2) and low back pain (LBP) has long been debated, but inconsistent measurements of BMI and varying definitions of LBP have produced conflicting findings. We explored this association using measured BMI and physician documentation of recurrent LBP among healthy young adults. Data were extracted from the Israel Defense Forces electronic medical record system. All Israeli citizens with compulsory military service during January 2008–March 2019 were included (n = 705,840). Exclusion criteria were spine deformities, disc pathologies, spinal surgeries, arthropathies, connective tissue diseases, pain syndromes, low bone density disorders, cancers, and psychiatric illnesses. LBP was defined as electronic medical record system documentation of 1) 2 medical visits at least 6 weeks apart with a diagnosis of LBP or “LBP with radiation” or 2) 1 medical visit resulting in referral to an orthopedic surgeon. Logistic regression models were used to explore the association between BMI category and LBP; 619,969 (87.8%) individuals (mean age = 18.9 (standard deviation, 0.97) years; 56.9% male) were included. LBP prevalence was 9.2% (n = 56,918) and higher among males (9.7%) than females (8.5%). Overweight (odds ratio = 1.123, 95% confidence interval: 1.096, 1.151) and obesity (odds ratio = 1.137, 95% confidence interval: 1.096, 1.179) were associated with LBP. The association remained significant after accounting for various sociodemographic factors. Maintaining a healthy BMI may aid in the prevention of LBP in young adults.
Bias Due to Within-Subject Exposure Dependency With or Without Bias Due to Lack of Pairwise Exchangeability When Exposure Is Chronic in Case-Crossover and Case–Time-Control Studies: A Simulation Study
Authors: Kubota Kiyoshi , Kelly Thu-Lan
Published: April 2023

The case-crossover study design has been proposed as a suitable design for use when a brief exposure causes a transient change in risk of an acute-onset disease. In pharmacoepidemiology, the condition of “brief exposure” is rarely satisfied because medication use is often chronic or successive, which may result in bias due to within-subject exposure dependency. Here we describe a simulation of a case-crossover study conducted within a cohort, where patients successively used a drug for 60 or more days and the rate ratio for the outcome occurrence was 4.0. Standard conditional logistic regression for the analysis produced overestimated odds ratios ranging up to 7.8. This bias due to within-subject exposure dependency from chronic use can be removed by the Mantel-Haenszel method or by our recently proposed weighting method. We also show that when some patients are censored after switching to another drug, a lack of pairwise exchangeability causes bias which is similar to bias due to an exposure time trend. This bias can be removed by using the case–time-control study design. We show that bias due to within-subject exposure dependency and lack of pairwise exchangeability occur independently and can occur separately or simultaneously, and we demonstrate how to detect and remove them.
Bumetanide induces post-traumatic microglia–interneuron contact to promote neurogenesis and recovery
Authors: Tessier Marine , Garcia Marta Saez , Goubert Emmanuelle , Blasco Edith , Consumi Amandine , Dehapiot Benoit , Tian Li , Molinari Florence , Laurin Jerome , Guillemot François , Hübner Christian A , Pellegrino Christophe , Rivera Claudio
Published: April 2023

Although the Na-K-Cl cotransporter (NKCC1) inhibitor bumetanide has prominent positive effects on the pathophysiology of many neurological disorders, the mechanism of action is obscure. Attention paid to elucidating the role of Nkcc1 has mainly been focused on neurons, but recent single cell mRNA sequencing analysis has demonstrated that the major cellular populations expressing NKCC1 in the cortex are non-neuronal.

We used a combination of conditional transgenic animals, in vivo electrophysiology, two-photon imaging, cognitive behavioural tests and flow cytometry to investigate the role of Nkcc1 inhibition by bumetanide in a mouse model of controlled cortical impact (CCI).

Here, we found that bumetanide rescues parvalbumin-positive interneurons by increasing interneuron-microglia contacts shortly after injury. The longitudinal phenotypic changes in microglia were significantly modified by bumetanide, including an increase in the expression of microglial-derived BDNF. These effects were accompanied by the prevention of CCI-induced decrease in hippocampal neurogenesis. Treatment with bumetanide during the first week post-CCI resulted in significant recovery of working and episodic memory as well as changes in theta band oscillations 1 month later.

These results disclose a novel mechanism for the neuroprotective action of bumetanide mediated by an acceleration of microglial activation dynamics that leads to an increase in parvalbumin interneuron survival following CCI, possibly resulting from increased microglial BDNF expression and contact with interneurons. Salvage of interneurons may normalize ambient GABA, resulting in the preservation of adult neurogenesis processes as well as contributing to bumetanide-mediated improvement of cognitive performance.
Epsin2, a novel target for multiple system atrophy therapy via α-synuclein/FABP7 propagation
Authors: Cheng An , Kawahata Ichiro , Wang Yifei , Jia Wenbin , Wang Haoyang , Sekimori Tomoki , Chen Yi , Suzuki Hiroyoshi , Takeda Atsushi , Stefanova Nadia , Finkelstein David I , Ma Wenbo , Chen Min , Sasaki Takuya , Fukunaga Kohji
Published: April 2023

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the accumulation of misfolded α-synuclein (αSyn) and myelin disruption. However, the mechanism underlying αSyn accumulation in MSA brains remains unclear. Here, we aimed to identify epsin-2 as a potential regulator of αSyn propagation in MSA brains.

In the MSA mouse model, PLP-hαSyn mice, and FABP7/αSyn hetero-aggregate-injected mice, we initially discovered that fatty acid-binding protein 7 (FABP7) is related to MSA development and forms hetero-aggregates with αSyn, which exhibit stronger toxicity than αSyn aggregates. Moreover, the injected FABP7/αSyn hetero-aggregates in mice selectively accumulated only in oligodendrocytes and Purkinje neurons, causing cerebellar dysfunction.

Furthermore, bioinformatic analyses of whole blood from MSA patients and FABP7 knockdown mice revealed that epsin-2, a protein expressed in both oligodendrocytes and Purkinje cells, could potentially regulate FABP7/αSyn hetero-aggregate propagation via clathrin-dependent endocytosis.

Lastly, adeno-associated virus type 5-dependent epsin-2 knockdown mice exhibited decreased levels of αSyn aggregate accumulation in Purkinje neurons and oligodendrocytes, as well as improved myelin levels and Purkinje neuron function in the cerebellum and motor performance. These findings suggest that epsin-2 plays a significant role in αSyn accumulation in MSA, and we propose epsin-2 as a novel therapeutic target for MSA.
Epidemiology of Pulmonary and Extrapulmonary Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Infections at 4 US Emerging Infections Program Sites: A 6-Month Pilot
Authors: Grigg Cheri , Jackson Kelly A , Barter Devra , Czaja Christopher A , Johnston Helen , Lynfield Ruth , Vagnone Paula Snippes , Tourdot Laura , Spina Nancy , Dumyati Ghinwa , Cassidy P Maureen , Pierce Rebecca , Henkle Emily , Prevots D Rebecca , Salfinger Max , Winthrop Kevin L , Toney Nadege Charles , Magill Shelley S
Published: April 2023

Background

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) cause pulmonary (PNTM) and extrapulmonary (ENTM) disease. Infections are difficult to diagnose and treat, and exposures occur in healthcare and community settings. In the United States, NTM epidemiology has been described largely through analyses of microbiology data from health departments, electronic health records, and administrative data. We describe findings from a multisite pilot of active, laboratory- and population-based NTM surveillance.

Methods

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Emerging Infections Program conducted NTM surveillance at 4 sites (Colorado, 5 counties; Minnesota, 2 counties; New York, 2 counties; and Oregon, 3 counties [PNTM] and statewide [ENTM]) from 1 October 2019 through 31 March 2020. PNTM cases were defined using published microbiologic criteria. ENTM cases required NTM isolation from a nonpulmonary specimen, excluding stool and rectal swabs. Patient data were collected via medical record review.

Results

Overall, 299 NTM cases were reported (PNTM: 231, 77%); Mycobacterium avium complex was the most common species group. Annualized prevalence was 7.5/100 000 population (PNTM: 6.1/100 000; ENTM: 1.4/100 000). Most patients had signs or symptoms in the 14 days before positive specimen collection (ENTM: 62, 91.2%; PNTM: 201, 87.0%). Of PNTM cases, 145 (62.8%) were female and 168 (72.7%) had underlying chronic lung disease. Among ENTM cases, 29 (42.6%) were female, 21 (30.9%) did not have documented underlying conditions, and 26 (38.2%) had infection at the site of a medical device or procedure.

Conclusions

Active, population-based NTM surveillance will provide data for monitoring the burden of disease and characterize affected populations to inform interventions.
Menger or Marx? The political ontology of cryptocurrency
Authors: Rector Tully , Allen Jason Grant
Published: April 2023

One of the perennial fault-lines in monetary theory is that between commodity and credit theories of money. The emergence of alternative payment systems based on blockchain and distributed ledger technologies, of which Bitcoin is the most prominent example, has raised a host of important questions in relation to this debate. This article considers two. The first is ontological: Are Bitcoin and similar ‘cryptocurrencies’ best conceived of as money? The second is political: Do these money candidates represent an emancipatory development over state-backed fiat currency? The ontological question, we will argue, invites the political one. If it is the case, as Chartalists maintain, that (i) for some X to be money it must have certain properties which can only be imparted by political authority (broadly understood) and if (ii) political authority ought to be subject to public control, then attempts by private actors to usurp a social ‘money function’ cannot count as legitimate political developments. We will argue in support of this position. This discussion is limited to Bitcoin, though its implications generalize for relevantly similar cryptocurrencies. Our method involves considering, first, claims made by Bitcoin’s defenders about its status as money, and what accounts for that status. While these claims are often thought to extend Mengerite or generally Austrian lines of economic argument, they resonate more with Marx’s theory of monetary value. Moreover, a close assessment of that theory’s defects yields specific normative conclusions that potentially undermine the notion that Bitcoin constitutes a valid means of resisting state monetary authority.
Exchange liquidity and redemption liquidity
Authors: Culham James
Published: April 2023

Disagreements over the nature of money and consequent confusions regarding liquidity contribute to difficulties integrating monetary theory into the theory of value. For example, an abundance of market liquidity is assumed in asset pricing, whereas a scarcity of monetary liquidity is deemed necessary for consumer price-level determinacy. This paper builds on the insights gained from the evolution of finance to introduce a distinction between exchange liquidity and redemption liquidity as a means of resolving this conceptual dissonance. Both exchange and redemption liquidity can be conceptualised as types of financial option differing in the exercise mechanism offered to the option holder by the option-writer.
Association of Antibiotic Use with Durability of Biologic Agents in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: a Report from the epi-IIRN
Authors: Gorelik Yuri , Ghersin Itai , Shlon Deema , Friss Chagit , Lujan Rona , Loewenberg Weisband Yiska , Greenfeld Shira , Kariv Revital , Ledderman Natan , Matz Eran , Dotan Iris , Bar-Yoseph Haggai , Chowers Yehuda , Turner Dan
Published: April 2023

Background

Different antibiotic classes were reported to have variable effects on immunogenicity towards anti-tumour necrosis factor [TNF] agents. However, the impact of antibiotic administration on biologic treatment durability was not investigated. We aimed to assess the association between antibiotic treatment and persistence of different classes of biologic therapy in inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] patients.

Methods

Data from the epi-IIRN, a nationwide registry of all Israeli IBD patients were analysed. All patients who filled a prescription of either infliximab, adalimumab, vedolizumab, or ustekinumab, were included. Treatment cessation was defined as drug discontinuation of at least 6 months. Macrolides, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, and penicillins with beta-lactamase inhibitors were selected as primary exposure variables. Survival analysis was performed using marginal structural models for each drug separately.

Results

In all 13 513 IBD patients, with a total of 39 600 patient-years, were included. Significant differences of overall treatment persistence were demonstrated, with highest persistence rates for ustekinumab and the lowest for infliximab treatment. Macrolides were found to be significantly associated with reduced risk of infliximab cessation (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.72, 95% CI 0.62-0.89]. Fluoroquinolones and cephalosporins were associated with an elevated risk of adalimumab treatment cessation [aHR 1.33, 95% CI 1.22-1.46; and aHR 1.20, 95% CI 1.08-1.34, respectively]. No significant effects of the studied antibiotics were observed in ustekinumab and vedolizumab users.

Conclusions

Specific antibiotic classes are associated with duration of anti-TNF treatment, but not with durability of vedolizumab or ustekinumab treatments. Further research is required to study the effect of specific antibiotics on response to biologics.