bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phonon-mediated superconductivity in orthorhombic XS (X = Nb, Ta or W)
Authors: Liu 刘 Guo-Hua 国华 , Jiang 江 Kai-Yue 恺悦 , Wan 万 Yi 一 , Qiao 乔 Shu-Xiang 树祥 , Tan 谭 Jin-Han 锦函 , Jiao 焦 Na 娜 , Zhang 张 Ping 平 , Lu 路 Hong-Yan 洪艳
Published: November 2024

The unique three-dimensional orthorhombic NbS (o-NbS) compound synthesized in 1969 has recently been experimentally confirmed to be a superconductor [Phys. Rev. B
108 174517 (2023)]. However, there is currently no theoretical research on its superconducting mechanism. In this work, we investigate the superconducting properties of o-NbS from first-principles calculations. Based on the Eliashberg equation, it is found that the superconductivity mainly originates from the coupling between the electrons of Nb-4d orbitals and the vibrations of Nb atoms in the low-frequency region and those of S atoms in the high-frequency region. A superconducting transition temperature (T
c) of 10.7 K is obtained, which is close to the experimental value and higher than most transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs). The calculated thermodynamic properties in the superconducting state, such as specific heat, energy gap, isotope coefficient, etc., also indicate that o-NbS is a conventional phonon-mediated superconductor. These results are consistent with recent experimental reports and provide a good understanding of the superconducting mechanism of o-NbS. Furthermore, the TMCs of o-TaS and o-WS are also investigated; these belong to the same and neighboring groups of Nb, and we find that o-TaS and o-WS are also phonon-mediated superconductors with T
c of 8.9 K and 7.2 K, respectively.
Impurity study in the dimensionless and dimensional isotope identity experiment between JET Deuterium and Tritium L-mode plasmas
Authors: Chomiczewska A. , Tala T. , Gromelski W. , Ivanova-Stanik I. , Kowalska-Strzęciwilk E. , Wendler N. , Carvalho I.S. , Carvalho P. , Coffey I. , Kirjasuo A. , Lennholm M. , Menmuir S. , Pucella G. , Salmi A. , Thomas B. ,   JET contributors,   the EUROfusion Tokamak Exploitation Team
Published: November 2024

The behaviour of impurities in fusion plasmas is of crucial importance for achieving sustained fusion reactions, and understanding similarities and differences between Deuterium (D) and Tritium (T) plasmas is needed to assess potential changes from DD to DT in ITER and future reactors. The first dimensionless and dimensional isotope identity experiments between Deuterium (D) and Tritium (T) L-mode plasmas were conducted at the JET W/Be wall. In the first approach, the discharges with matched ρ∗, ν∗, β
n, q, and T
e/T
i were compared to emphasize direct isotope effects, while in the dimensional approach engineering parameters such as toroidal magnetic field B
T, plasma current I
p, plasma electron density and NBI power P
NBI were matched. The dimensionless isotope scaling showed an improvement in global confinement and local transport in T plasmas in comparison to the matched D one (Cordey et al 1999 Nucl. Fusion
39 301). Detailed impurity analyses using VUV, visible spectroscopy, SXR cameras, and bolometry revealed that T plasmas exhibited higher radiation and impurity content, particularly Ni and W, compared to D plasmas. Understanding the origin of the increased impurity content is addressed in this paper. The dimensionless experiments showed differences in impurity transport. The Be source behaviour varied: D plasmas had higher Be influx in the dimensionless approach due to lower electron density and enhanced sputtering (Saibene et al 1999 Nucl. Fusion
39 1133), while T plasmas showed a higher Be source in the dimensional experiments, highlighting isotope mass effects. W in the divertor region was not sputtered by hydrogen isotopes. W in the divertor region was not sputtered by hydrogen isotopes. In the dimensionless experiments, W sputtering was primarily influenced by Ni in T plasmas and by Be in D plasmas. However, in the dimensional approach, Be played a more significant role in W sputtering within T plasmas. MHD instabilities, including ST oscillations, were present in all cases other ones were correlated with NBI power levels; higher NBI power led to elevated levels of Be, Ni, and W impurities. The comprehensive comparison underscores the necessity of accounting for isotope mass effects in predictive modelling and optimization of plasma performance in fusion reactors.
Performance optimization of solid state dye sensitised solar cells (ssDSSCs) using two different electron transport layers (ETLs), using SCAPS-1D simulation software
Authors: Malik Mahnoor , Kashif Muhammad , Sumona Farhana Bari , Tariq Maher Un Nisa
Published: November 2024

In this work, a comparative analysis was carried out by using titanium dioxide (TiO2) and tungsten disulfide (WS2) as an electron transport layer (ETL). This numerical analysis was conducted using SCAPS-1D software, which stands for solar cell capacitance simulator-1 Dimensional. The two device structures were: FTO/TiO2/N719/ MoO3 and FTO/WS2/N719/MoO3. For TiO2 ETL-based devices, the PCE was 11.42%, with J
sc, V
oc, and FF values of 18.50 mA cm−2, 0.872 V, and 70.75%, respectively. By contrast, WS2-based devices achieved a PCE of 14.23% with J
sc, V
oc, and FF values of 20.86 mA cm−2, 0.880 V, and 77.43%, respectively. Based on the above-mentioned data, WS2 has better PV performance of the solar cell. WS2 exhibits high electron mobility, chemically stable, tunable bandgap, therefore a promising candidate to replace TiO2 as an ETL in future designs.
Microwave absorption properties in Ku-band of micro ferrite based on natural ferrite from iron sand prepared by high energy ball milling
Authors: Mashuri Mashuri , Suyatno Suyatno , Nasori Nasori , Aunurohim Aunurohim , Sunaryono Sunaryono , Ermawati Frida Ulfah
Published: November 2024

Micro ferrite powder with magnetite phase has been successfully synthesized from iron sand using the extraction-milling method as an absorber for radar waves at the Ku-band frequency (12–18 GHz). The extraction of ferrite powder from iron sand using a strong permanent magnet. The formation of micro ferrite was carried out using a milling process with variations in time 2 h, 4 h and 6 h (hours), and milling speed 100 rpm, 150 rpm and 200 rpm. The increasing the milling speed and time causes the particle size to decrease, the average crystal size and the saturation magnetization value to decrease but the maximum Reflection Loss (RLm) value to increase in the Ku-band frequency band (12–18 GHz). Characterization of the crystalline phase, average crystal size, magnetic power, morphology of micro ferrite was carried out using XRD, VSM and SEM. The maximum Reflection Loss value is measured using the transmission line method with a VNA tool. The optimal influence of milling speed and time on radar wave absorption at a rotation speed of 150 rpm within 6 h with a saturation magnetization value of 40.60 emu g−1r−1, average crystal size of 93.95 nm,

R

L

m

=
−
30.04

dB

, matching frequency

f

m

=
16
.

57

GHz

and in frequency band

15.95

−

17.52

GHz

. Micro ferrite made from iron sand synthesized using the high energy ball milling method has the potential to be an inexpensive alternative for making microwave absorbing materials with a simpler and environmentally friendly process.
Spatiotemporal patterns in precipitation whiplash over China during 1901–2100 based on CMIP6 simulations
Authors: Luo Honghao , Nanding Nergui , Deng Fuying , Wu Huan , Huang Zhijun , Chen Junxu , Peng Jiabin , Zhang Bin
Published: November 2024

The increasing risk of precipitation whiplash, characterized by rapid transitions between extreme drought and wet conditions, is largely related to atmospheric circulation changes due to anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. This study aims to examine the changing patterns of precipitation whiplash events for future projections (2021–2100) with regard to the current climate (1981–2020), and to unveil the relations between intensity, duration, and frequency of these events for various return periods across different regions of China. Multi-source observational datasets were also used to analyze the trend of precipitation whiplash indices for the current climate and to assess the ability of the CMIP6 ensemble model for reproducing the characteristics of precipitation whiplash events. The Intensity-Duration-Frequency (IDF) curves were estimated by using the nonstationary Generalized Extreme Value (GEV) model combined with Bayesian inference. The results show an increasing trend in frequency, intensity, and severity of precipitation whiplash events, particularly for the long-term future, while the duration of these transitions shows a decreasing trend. The peak occurrence months during the long-term future period exhibit notable changes in most parts of China. Specifically, the dry-to-wet whiplash events occur approximately two months earlier than in the current period, while the wet-to-dry whiplash occurs approximately two months later. The results also indicated that IDF curves shifted upward, particularly in the long-term future projections, suggesting an increased likelihood of more severe events. The findings of this study will serve as an essential reference for local authorities to develop more effective water resource management and disaster mitigation policies to tackle the impact of future climate change.
Emergency department visits in California associated with wildfire PM2.5: differing risk across individuals and communities
Authors: Stowell Jennifer D , Sue Wing Ian , Romitti Yasmin , Kinney Patrick L , Wellenius Gregory A
Published: November 2024

The threats to human health from wildfires and wildfire smoke (WFS) in the United States (US) are increasing due to continued climate change. A growing body of literature has documented important adverse health effects of WFS exposure, but there is insufficient evidence regarding how risk related to WFS exposure varies across individual or community level characteristics. To address this evidence gap, we utilized a large nationwide database of healthcare utilization claims for emergency department (ED) visits in California across multiple wildfire seasons (May through November, 2012–2019) and quantified the health impacts of fine particulate matter <2.5 μm (PM2.5) air pollution attributable to WFS, overall and among subgroups of the population. We aggregated daily counts of ED visits to the level of the Zip Code Tabulation Area (ZCTA) and used a time-stratified case-crossover design and distributed lag non-linear models to estimate the association between WFS and relative risk of ED visits. We further assessed how the association with WFS varied across subgroups defined by age, race, social vulnerability, and residential air conditioning (AC) prevalence. Over a 7 day period, PM2.5 from WFS was associated with elevated risk of ED visits for all causes (1.04% (0.32%, 1.71%)), non-accidental causes (2.93% (2.16%, 3.70%)), and respiratory disease (15.17% (12.86%, 17.52%)), but not with ED visits for cardiovascular diseases (1.06% (−1.88%, 4.08%)). Analysis across subgroups revealed potential differences in susceptibility by age, race, and AC prevalence, but not across subgroups defined by ZCTA-level Social Vulnerability Index scores. These results suggest that PM2.5 from WFS is associated with higher rates of all cause, non-accidental, and respiratory ED visits with important heterogeneity across certain subgroups. Notably, lower availability of residential AC was associated with higher health risks related to wildfire activity.
The Power of Live Simulations in Learning How to Intervene in a Mental Health Crisis
Authors: Cherry Monica D , Maurer Mary , Kopels Sandra , Ostler Terry
Published: November 2024

This chapter describes how advanced clinical social work students learned to navigate and intervene in mental health crises using live simulations in a classroom setting. Students actively engaged in and observed in clients portrayed by actors four different realistic crisis situations: psychosis, threat to harm others, nonsuicidal self-harm, and suicidal ideation. Building on prior learning, students assessed clients’ levels of risk and considered clients’ unique histories and backgrounds in understanding symptom presentations. Using a trauma-informed approach, students also considered their legal responsibilities as they pertained to interventions and made recommendations for services. Students and teachers alike described the simulations as a powerful learning experience. Students became more deeply aware of the context of crisis and how to think and respond effectively on their feet.
Public Debt, National Income, and Growth
Authors: Reddy Y V , Ray Partha , Chakraborty Pinaki
Published: November 2024

This chapter attempts a synoptic account of the economic theories underlying fiscal policy and public debt and its impact on national income and growth. Needless to say, this account is in the nature of a selective survey. This chapter highlights that all the major strands of economic theories failed to either explain or predict the crisis. Even the empirical academic literature is quite divided on the relationship between public debt and growth. Though we may not be able to infer a cohesive set of lessons, a selective review of relevant literature is attempted in view of its contemporary relevance.
Taxation and Regulation of the Financial Sector
Authors: Reddy Y V , Ray Partha , Chakraborty Pinaki
Published: November 2024

The global financial crisis has triggered a review of the links between fiscal management and regulation of the financial sector. It resulted in considerable interest in taxation in relation to regulation of the financial sector and there is some evidence of new approaches in this regard. There is recognition of shared objectives and complementarities between the two in achieving their objectives. There is a debate on the extent of under-taxation of the financial sector and distortions caused in the financial sector by the tax system. In this context, there is renewed interest in Tobin Tax. The perspectives of developing countries on the subject are important, though they may not currently be the focus of discussions and policies. This chapter is devoted to exploration of the links, the new approaches, the shared objectives, and the overlap between taxation and regulation. The COVID-19 pandemic has raised the issue of domestic resource mobilization, which is intertwined with better regulation of taxation of transnational companies. These are base erosion and profit sharing, transfer pricing rules, and thin capitalization.
Wavelength dependence of capacitance of δ-type MnO2 by light irradiation and suppression of the desorption of interlayer metal complexes by interlayer long-chain alkylammonium ions
Authors: Hanaya Akinobu , Itakura Makoto , Ou Ituou , Tomono Kazuaki
Published: November 2024

Two different layered MnO2 thin films with varying layering order of [Co(en)3] and (C12H25)2(CH3)2N ions were prepared, and their capacitances were measured. The top MnO2 layer containing (C12H25)2(CH3)2N ions between the layers inhibited the desorption of the [Co(en)3] complex and exhibited a higher capacitance (287.3 F/g) compared to a thin film with a top MnO2 layer of the [Co(en)3] complex. Furthermore, thin films with a MnO2 layer intercalated with (C12H25)2(CH3)2N ions were irradiated with light at 360, 460, and 560 nm, and their capacitances were measured. As a result, the thin film irradiated at 460 nm demonstrated the highest initial capacitance of 687.6 F/g and the highest cycle stability with a degradation rate of 3.2%.
Choosing Wisely: Effectiveness and Safety of Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Close Contacts of Invasive Group A Streptococci Infection
Authors: Birck Marina G , Moura Cristiano S , Winthrop Kevin L , Machado Marina A A , Neville Autumn , Bernatsky Sasha
Published: November 2024

Antibiotic prophylaxis is often recommended for close contacts of index cases of invasive Streptococcus pyogenes infections. Using MarketScan data (2010–2019), we found no difference in infection rates between those who received and those who did not receive antibiotics but a 3-fold increased risk of adverse events in those who did receive antibiotics.
Balloon aortic valvuloplasty with simultaneous aortic root injection: a case report of an adjunctive strategy to computed tomography for predicting coronary obstruction in transcatheter aortic valve-in-transcatheter aortic valve procedures
Authors: Shimura Tetsuro , Yamamoto Masanori , Matsuo Hitoshi
Published: November 2024

Background

Computed tomography (CT) assessment is the standard for predicting coronary obstruction (CO) caused by sinus sequestration (SS) during transcatheter aortic valve (TAV) implantation in degenerated TAV (TAV-in-TAV) procedure, but it may not always be accurate. This report describes a prediction method for CO by using balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) during TAV-in-TAV.

Case summary

An 87-year-old woman with a history of balloon-expandable transcatheter heart valve (BE-THV) implantation 7 years prior was admitted with worsening dyspnoea. Echocardiography revealed severe THV deterioration, and CT confirmed calcium proliferation in the THV. Our heart team decided to perform a TAV-in-TAV procedure using a 23-mm BE-THV. Preoperative CT imaging indicated an intermediate risk of CO. To evaluate CO risk more precisely, the top of a 20-mm balloon was positioned near the top of a BE-THV stent and inflated, followed by simultaneous aortic root injection (SARI). During SARI, contrast flowed into both coronary arteries, predicting a low risk of CO. Based on these findings, TAV-in-TAV was performed without coronary protection. The procedure was completed successfully without CO. After the procedure, the patient’s symptoms improved, and echocardiography showed normal valve function. She was discharged without complications and remains under outpatient follow-up care.

Discussion

The diagnostic method for predicting CO using BAV with SARI could serve as a valuable adjunctive diagnostic tool in patients with an intermediate or high risk of SS anatomy after TAV-in-TAV. In such cases, this method may provide additional insights concerning precise CO risk and the indication of leaflet modification technique during TAV-in-TAV.
Learning curve of robotic mitral repair: prospective two-centre study of proficiency and clinical outcomes
Authors: Sandoval Elena , Bhoera Rahul A , Tomšič Anton , Morales-Rey Ignacio , García-Álvarez Ana , Palmen Meindert , Pereda Daniel
Published: November 2024

OBJECTIVES

Robotic-assisted mitral valve repair surgery has a steep learning curve, and it is not clear whether previous experience in minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MIMVS) facilitates this process. We aimed to investigate the initial experience of 2 cardiac centres starting their robotic programmes, evaluating the impact of previous MIMVS experience.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis was performed for the 1st consecutive cases operated due to severe degenerative mitral valve regurgitation using the robotic surgical platform in 2 European centres, 1 transitioning from conventional surgery (centre 1) and the other from mini thoracotomy MIMVS (centre 2). Cumulative sum analysis was used to evaluate the learning process using both surgical times and a combined primary outcome including relevant intra- and postoperative results.

RESULTS

First 62 patients in each centre were included. All median surgical times were shorter in centre 2: cardiopulmonary bypass: 238 vs 115 min, P < 0.001; cross-clamp: 143 vs 82 min, P < 0.001; and total intervention: 313 vs 228 min, P < 0.001. The combined primary outcome showed no significant differences (9.7% vs 8%; P = 1). However, the turning point making the end of the learning phase was detected at the 60th case in centre 1 and at the 50th in centre 2. Regarding surgical time, the learning curve was steeper in centre 1 with both cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamp overcoming the learning phase after 32 cases, as compared to 16 cases in centre 2.

CONCLUSIONS

A successful robotic-assisted mitral repair programme can be safely started coming from either conventional open approach or mini thoracotomy MIMVS. However, previous mini thoracotomy MIMVS experience had positive impact on the initial learning curve.
Premium or Penalty? Occupations and Earnings of Ottoman Immigrants and Their Offspring in the United States, 1900–1940
Authors: Zalfou Rami , Dribe Martin
Published: November 2024

We study the economic integration of immigrants from Ottoman Syria and Turkey and their offspring in the United States using full count census data from 1900 to 1940. Immigrants initially achieved occupational premiums due to their selection into high-reward industries, but 1940 earnings data reveals significant and growing disadvantages over time, partly due to lower educational attainment. In contrast, the second generation achieved substantial upward mobility, closing both the education and earnings gaps with native Whites. This contrasts with the experience of Northern European immigrants who matched natives more closely in terms of occupations and earnings.
AltaiR: a C toolkit for alignment-free and temporal analysis of multi-FASTA data
Authors: Silva Jorge M , Pinho Armando J , Pratas Diogo
Published: November 2024

Background

Most viral genome sequences generated during the latest pandemic have presented new challenges for computational analysis. Analyzing millions of viral genomes in multi-FASTA format is computationally demanding, especially when using alignment-based methods. Most existing methods are not designed to handle such large datasets, often requiring the analysis to be divided into smaller parts to obtain results using available computational resources.

Findings

We introduce AltaiR, a toolkit for analyzing multiple sequences in multi-FASTA format using exclusively alignment-free methodologies. AltaiR enables the identification of singularity and similarity patterns within sequences and computes static and temporal dynamics without restrictions on the number or size of input sequences. It automatically filters low-quality, biased, or deviant data. We demonstrate AltaiR’s capabilities by analyzing more than 1.5 million full severe acute respiratory virus coronavirus 2 sequences, revealing interesting observations regarding viral genome characteristics over time, such as shifts in nucleotide composition, decreases in average Kolmogorov sequence complexity, and the evolution of the smallest sequences not found in the human host.

Conclusions

AltaiR can identify temporal characteristics and trends in large numbers of sequences, making it ideal for scenarios involving endemic or epidemic outbreaks with vast amounts of available sequence data. Implemented in C with multithreading and methodological optimizations, AltaiR is computationally efficient, flexible, and dependency-free. It accepts any sequence in FASTA format, including amino acid sequences. The complete toolkit is freely available at https://github.com/cobilab/altair.
The SEP homologous gene TEMARY regulates inflorescence phenotypes in H. macrophylla
Authors: Nashima K , Uemachi T , Shirasawa K , Shimizu A , Takeuchi T , Obata T , Isobe S , Azuma M , Akutsu M , Nakazawa Y , Kodama M , Namai K , Kurokura T , Suyama T
Published: November 2024

Most Hydrangea species have inflorescences composed of two types of flowers: decorative flowers with showy sepals, and plain non-decorative flowers. In wild plants of H. macrophylla, the decorative flowers are located at the periphery of the corymb, resulting in the lacecap phenotype. However, after the discovery of the mophead phenotype, in which decorative flowers are borne not only at the periphery but also on the entire inflorescence, it developed remarkably as a garden plant. In this study, we aimed to identify the gene controlling the inflorescence type and the mutations causing the mophead phenotype. Linkage analyses identified a SEPALLATA (SEP) homologous gene as a candidate gene, named TEMARY. We analyzed the genome sequences of TEMARY using several cultivars. The results revealed that the H. macrophylla cultivars had three types of loss-of-function alleles, and that the locus of the mophead cultivars consisted of only loss-of-function alleles. The phenotypes of 27 mophead cultivars could be explained by three types of loss-of-function TEMARY alleles. RNA-seq analysis and qRT-PCR analysis using two bud sport mutant lines related to the inflorescence type revealed that mophead mutants did not express TEMARY normally. These results suggest that TEMARY controls the inflorescence type and that mutations in this gene cause the mophead phenotype.
Entrepreneurs “from within”? Schumpeter and the emergence of pure novelty
Authors: Guichardaz Rémy , Pénin Julien
Published: November 2024

The development of a dynamic model of endogenous economic change was a major objective for Schumpeter throughout his academic career. This requires, among other things, explaining the emergence of pure novelty, which Schumpeter never managed to do. As an explanation for this failure, existing literature put forward a methodological tension stemming from Schumpeter’s Walrasian commitment. In this paper, we propose that Schumpeter’s inability to build an endogenous theory of pure novelty is not only the mere logical consequence of his unsuitable methodological approach but also the inevitable outcome of his “theory” of how novelty is generated. We show that he could not depart from an individual and elitist dimension of entrepreneurship and from an energetic and vitalist axiom of social change, which is by nature hardly compatible with endogenous evolution. Furthermore, our revisiting of his last writings shows that, while there have been clear changes in his thinking on the entrepreneur, the “old” Schumpeter remained rooted in an individualistic, elitist, and energetic view of the apparition of pure novelty. These findings have important implications for understanding Schumpeter’s thinking and, in particular, his vision of capitalism, socialism, and economic development.
Prophylactic ablation during cardiac surgery in patients without atrial fibrillation: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Visanji Mika’il , Belley-Côté Emilie P , Pandey Ashok , Amit Yael , McClure Graham R , Young Jack , Um Kevin J , Oraii Alireza , Healey Jeff S , Whitlock Richard P , McIntyre William F
Published: November 2024

OBJECTIVES

Atrial fibrillation is the most common complication of cardiac surgery and occurs frequently in patients without a history of the arrhythmia. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to assess whether prophylactic ablation during cardiac surgery in patients without a history of atrial fibrillation prevents atrial fibrillation.

METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE and Embase from inception to August 2024. We included randomized trials of adults without a history of atrial fibrillation undergoing cardiac surgery. The intervention of interest was ablation during surgery. We pooled data using random-effects models. The primary outcome was new-onset early postoperative atrial fibrillation within 30 days following surgery. The key secondary outcome was incident clinical atrial fibrillation at follow-up (minimum 6 months). We assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane Collaboration’s risk of bias tool v.2 and evidence quality using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE).

RESULTS

We included 7 trials (n = 687). The intervention was pulmonary vein isolation in 6 trials and ganglion plexi ablation in 1. Patients who received prophylactic ablation were less likely to have early postoperative atrial fibrillation (21% vs 37%, risk ratio [RR] 0.5, 95% confidence interval 0.3–0.8, I2 = 64%) and incident clinical atrial fibrillation at longest follow-up (range 6 months–2 years; 3% vs 10%, RR 0.3, 95% confidence interval 0.2–0.7, I2 = 0%). The quality of evidence was low.

CONCLUSIONS

Prophylactic ablation during cardiac surgery may prevent atrial fibrillation in patients without a history of the arrhythmia. A definitive randomized trial is needed to confirm effects and safety.
Testing the equivalency of human “predators” and deep neural networks in the detection of cryptic moths
Authors: Arias Mónica , Behrendt Lis , Dreßler Lyn , Raka Adelina , Perrier Charles , Elias Marianne , Gomez Doris , Renoult Julien P , Tedore Cynthia
Published: November 2024

Researchers have shown growing interest in using deep neural networks (DNNs) to efficiently test the effects of perceptual processes on the evolution of colour patterns and morphologies. Whether this is a valid approach remains unclear, as it is unknown whether the relative detectability of ecologically relevant stimuli to DNNs actually matches that of biological neural networks. To test this, we compare image classification performance by humans and 6 DNNs (AlexNet, VGG-16, VGG-19, ResNet-18, SqueezeNet, and GoogLeNet) trained to detect artificial moths on tree trunks. Moths varied in their degree of crypsis, conferred by different sizes and spatial configurations of transparent wing elements. Like humans, four of six DNN architectures found moths with larger transparent elements harder to detect. However, humans and only one DNN architecture (GoogLeNet) found moths with transparent elements touching one side of the moth’s outline harder to detect than moths with untouched outlines. When moths took up a smaller proportion of the image (i.e., were viewed from further away), the camouflaging effect of transparent elements touching the moth’s outline was reduced for DNNs but enhanced for humans. Viewing distance can thus interact with camouflage type in opposing directions in humans and DNNs, which warrants a deeper investigation of viewing distance/size interactions with a broader range of stimuli. Overall, our results suggest that human and DNN responses had some similarities, but not enough to justify widespread use of DNNs for studies of camouflage.
Trends in enforcement of National Comprehensive Cancer Network financial conflict of interest policy
Authors: Saririan Niloufar , Bhamidipati Dedipya , Dey Pranam , Persaud Sonia , Chakraborty Nirjhar , Tabatabai Sara , Gallagher Grace , Trivedi Niti U , Mitchell Aaron P
Published: November 2024

Background

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) financial conflict of interest (FCOI) policy sets dollar maximums for panelists, but violations may occur.

Methods

We studied NCCN Guidelines panelists for the 20 most prevalent cancers, 2013-2022. We included panelists with at least 1 full calendar year of service (“current panelists”) and those who began service during the study period (“new panelists”); NCCN FCOI policy limits ($20 000 from any single company or $50 000 across all companies) apply to both groups. Industry payments were obtained from Open Payments and mapped manually via National Provider Identifier. We calculated industry payments received, excluding the same payment categories as does NCCN (research, meals, travel and lodging). We estimated whether panelists received payments exceeding NCCN limits (“violation”). As a proxy for whether panelists were subsequently disqualified as stipulated, we measured continued service for at least 1 full calendar year (“retention”) subsequent to an estimated violation. We analyzed retention before and after 2016, due to increased scrutiny on NCCN FCOI in 2016.

Results

The annual proportion of current panelists with estimated violations ranged between 0.5% (2020) and 5.8% (2016). Among panelists who did vs did not have violations, retention was 83.6% vs 88.5% during 2014-2015 (odds ratio [OR] = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.26 to 1.31) and 46.6% vs 89.4% during 2017-2020 (OR = 0.10, 95% CI = 0.06 to 0.17). Among new panelists, 2.7% (5/185) had prior-year violations during 2014-2015, as did 5.5% (18/330) during 2017-2021.

Conclusions

Each year, a small portion of panelists receive industry payments exceeding NCCN limits. Since 2016, the likelihood that such panelists will continue to serve has decreased substantially.
Translator attribution of Hongloumeng: using entropy-based features and machining learning algorithm
Authors: Hu Ruitao , Wang Gui , Shao Bin
Published: November 2024

This study utilized machine learning algorithms and entropy-based features to identify translators of two English translations of Hongloumeng, a great classical Chinese novel written in the mid-18th century. The translations under examination were completed, respectively, by David Hawkes and the Yangs (Yang Hsien-yi and Gladys Yang). Two feature sets were extracted as input for the identification of translator styles: wordform features (wordform unigrams, bigrams, and trigrams) and part-of-speech (POS) features (POS unigrams, bigrams, and trigrams). Additionally, four machine learning classifiers were tested: linear support vector machines (SVMs), linear discriminant analysis (LDA), random forest (RF), and multilayer perceptron (MLP). Analysis of feature importance and SHAP value identified the most influential features within each classifier. Results showed that LDA achieved the best performance, with 81 per cent accuracy in distinguishing between translations, showing promise for translator identification. In contrast, MLP struggled to reliably differentiate between translations, achieving only 50 per cent accuracy. Furthermore, POS features had the greatest influence in SVM and LDA, while wordform features dominated in RF. SHAP analysis revealed that Hawkes’ translation tended to exhibit higher POS unigram and lower POS trigram entropy compared to the Yangs’. This increased contribution of POS unigrams and trigrams suggests a link to explicitation differences in translation. In summary, the combination of machine learning and entropy-based stylometric features shows potential for automatic translator identification and analysis.
Detection of the [O i] 63 µm emission line from the z = 6.04 quasar J2054–0005
Authors: Ishii Nozomi , Hashimoto Takuya , Ferkinhoff Carl , Rybak Matus , Inoue Akio K , Michiyama Tomonari , Donevski Darko , Fujimoto Seiji , Salak Dragan , Kuno Nario , Matsuo Hiroshi , Mawatari Ken , Tamura Yoichi , Izumi Takuma , Nagao Tohru , Nakazato Yurina , Osone Wataru , Sugahara Yuma , Usui Mitsutaka , Wakasugi Koki , Yajima Hidenobu , Bakx Tom J L C , Fudamoto Yoshinobu , Meyer Romain A , Walter Fabian , Yoshida Naoki
Published: November 2024

We report the highest-redshift detection of [O i] 63 $\mu$m from a luminous quasar, J2054$-$0005, at $z=6.04$ based on the Atacama Large Millimeter/sub-millimeter Array (ALMA) Band 9 observations. The [O i] 63 $\mu$m line luminosity is $(4.5\pm 1.5) \times 10^{9} L_{\odot }$, corresponding to the [O i] 63 $\mu$m-to-far-infrared luminosity ratio of $\approx$6.7 $\times 10^{-4}$, which is consistent with the value obtained in the local Universe. Remarkably, [O i] 63 $\mu$m is as bright as [C ii] 158 $\mu$m, resulting in the [O i]-to-[C ii] line luminosity ratio of $1.3\pm 0.5$. Based on a careful comparison of the luminosity ratios of [O i] 63 $\mu$m, [C ii] 158 $\mu$m, and dust continuum emission to models of photodissociation regions, we find that J2054$-$0005 has a gas density $\log (n_{\rm H}/{\rm cm}^{-3}) = 3.7\pm 0.3$ and an incident far-ultraviolet radiation field of $\log (G/G_{\rm 0}) = 3.0\pm 0.1$, showing that [O i] 63 $\mu$m serves as an important coolant of the dense and warm gas in J2054$-$0005. A close examination of the [O i] and [C ii] line profiles suggests that the [O i] line may be partially self-absorbed; however, deeper observations are needed to verify this conclusion. Regardless, the gas density and incident radiation field are in broad agreement with the values obtained in nearby star-forming galaxies and objects with [O i] 63 $\mu$m observations at $z=1$–3 with the Herschel Space Observatory. These results demonstrate the power of ALMA high-frequency observations targeting [O i] 63 $\mu$m to examine the properties of photodissociation regions in high-redshift galaxies.
Surface accretion as a dust retention mechanism in protoplanetary disks. I. Formulation and proof-of-concept simulations
Authors: Okuzumi Satoshi
Published: November 2024

Planetesimal formation via the streaming and gravitational instabilities of dust in protoplanetary disks requires a local enhancement of the dust-to-gas mass ratio. Radial drift of large grains toward pressure bumps in the gas disks is a plausible mechanism for achieving the required dust concentration. However, recent millimeter disk observations suggest that the maximum sizes of dust grains in these disks are considerably smaller than predicted by dust evolution models that assume sticky grains. This indicates that the grains may be more strongly coupled to the gas and hence drift more slowly than previously anticipated. In this study, we propose a new dust retention mechanism that enables an enhancement of the dust-to-gas mass ratio in disks with slowly drifting grains. This mechanism assumes that an accretion flow near the disk surface driven by magnetohydrodynamical (MHD) winds removes disk gas while retaining the slowly drifting grains below the flow. This process is expected to occur when the timescale of gas removal is shorter than the timescale of dust radial advection. To test this, we develop a radially one-dimensional framework for the transport of gas and dust in a disk with a vertically non-uniform accretion structure. Using this framework, we simulate the growth, fragmentation, and radial transport of dust grains in surface-accreting disks. Our simulations confirm a significant enhancement of the midplane dust-to-gas mass ratio when the predicted conditions for dust retention are met. Dust retention by MHD-driven surface accretion flows may thus pave the way for planetesimal formation from poorly sticky grains.
Apparent total tract nutrient digestibility of frozen raw, freeze-dried raw, fresh, and extruded dog foods and their effects on serum metabolites and fecal characteristics, metabolites, and microbiota of healthy adult dogs
Authors: Geary Elizabeth L , Oba Patrícia M , Templeman James R , Swanson Kelly S
Published: November 2024

Various pet food diet formats are available, but many are poorly studied. The objective of this study was to determine the apparent total tract macronutrient digestibility (ATTD) of frozen raw, freeze-dried raw, fresh, and extruded dog foods and assess their effects on serum metabolites, hematology, and fecal characteristics, metabolites, and microbiota of healthy adult dogs. Ten beagle dogs (4.10 ± 0.74 yr) were used in a replicated 5 × 5 Latin square study to test the following diets: Chicken and Barley Recipe (extruded; Hill’s Science Diet [EXT]), Chicken and White Rice Recipe (fresh; Just Food for Dogs [FRSH]), Chicken Formula (frozen raw; Primal [FRZN]), Chicken and Sorghum Hybrid Freeze-dried Formula (freeze-dried raw; Primal [HFD]), and Chicken Dinner Patties (freeze-dried raw; Stella & Chewy’s [FD]). The experiment was composed of five 35-d periods, with each ending with fecal and blood collections. Data were analyzed using Mixed Models in SAS 9.4, with P < 0.05 being significant. Treatment was a fixed effect and dog a random effect. Protein ATTD was higher for FRZN and FD than other diets and higher for HFD than FRSH and EXT. Fat ATTD was higher for HFD than FRZN and EXT and lower for EXT than other diets. Fecal output was higher for dogs fed EXT than those fed other diets and higher for dogs fed FRSH than those fed FRZN, HFD, or FD. Fecal pH was lower in dogs fed EXT and FRSH than those fed other diets. Fecal scores were higher (looser) in dogs fed EXT and FRSH than those fed FRZN and FD. Fecal dry matter was higher in dogs fed FD than those fed other diets and higher in those fed FRZN and HFD than those fed EXT and FRSH. In general, fecal short-chain fatty acids were highest in dogs fed EXT, intermediate in dogs fed FRSH and HFD, and lowest in dogs fed FRZN and FD. Fecal isobutyrate and isovalerate were highest in dogs fed HFD, lowest in dogs fed FRSH, and intermediate in dogs fed other diets. Fecal primary bile acids were higher, while secondary bile acids were lower in dogs fed FRSH than in dogs fed other diets. Fecal microbiota were greatly impacted by diet, with alpha diversity, beta diversity, and relative abundances of over 40 bacterial genera being different among treatments. This study shows that dietary format may lead to great differences in nutrient digestibility and fecal characteristics, metabolites, and microbiota. More research is needed to distinguish the effects of ingredient source, processing method, and nutrient composition.
Epigenetic mechanisms mediate cytochrome P450 1A1 expression and lung endothelial injury caused by MRSA in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Ha Alison W. , Meliton Lucille N. , Chen Weiguo , Wang Lichun , Maienschein‐Cline Mark , Jacobson Jeffrey R. , Letsiou Eleftheria , Dudek Steven M.
Published: November 2024

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a common cause of severe pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). To advance our mechanistic understanding of this important pathogen, we characterized the effects of MRSA‐induced epigenetic modification of histone 3 lysine 9 acetylation (H3K9ac), an activator of gene transcription, on lung endothelial cells (EC), a critical site of ARDS pathophysiology. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and sequencing (ChIP‐seq) analysis revealed that MRSA induces H3K9ac in the promoter regions of multiple genes, with the highest ranked peak annotated to the CYP1A1 gene. Subsequent experiments confirm that MRSA increases CYP1A1 protein and mRNA expression, and its enzymatic activity in EC. Epigenetic inhibitors (C646, RVX‐208) reduce MRSA‐induced CYP1A1 expression and inflammatory responses, including cytokine release and adhesion molecule expression. Inhibition of the Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (Ahr), a known mediator of CYP1A1 expression, blocks MRSA‐induced upregulation of CYP1A1 mRNA and protein expression, enzyme activity, and cytokine release. Reduction of CYP1A1 protein expression by siRNA or inhibition of its activity by rhapontigenin attenuated MRSA‐induced EC permeability and inflammatory responses. In a mouse model of MRSA‐induced acute lung injury (ALI), inhibition of CYP1A1 activity by rhapontigenin improved multiple indices of ALI, including bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) protein concentration, cytokine levels, and markers of endothelial damage. Analysis of publicly available data suggests upregulation of CYP1A1 expression in ARDS patients compared to ICU controls. In summary, these studies provide new insights into MRSA‐induced lung injury and identify a novel functional role for epigenetic upregulation of CYP1A1 in lung EC during ARDS pathogenesis.
Disruption of Opioid Treatment Program Services Due to an Extreme Weather Event: An Example of Climate Change Effects on the Health of Persons Who Use Drugs
Authors: Dunn Julia A. , Grekin Paul , Darnton James B. , Soth Sean , Austin Elizabeth J. , Woolworth Stephen , Bhatraju Elenore P. , Gojic Alex , Williams Emily C. , Hallgren Kevin A. , Tsui Judith I.
Published: November 2024

Climate change and the opioid epidemic in combination may pose significant challenges for individuals with opioid use disorder due to potential disruptions in access to essential addiction treatment services caused by extreme weather events. Despite concerns over the escalating health impacts of climate change, limited research has documented and explored the vulnerability of patients enrolled in opioid treatment programs to disruptions caused by climate change and particularly extreme cold events. In this commentary, we describe the impact of a catastrophic flooding event during record-setting cold temperatures at an opioid treatment program in Seattle, WA. By examining this event, we highlight the potential vulnerabilities the methadone treatment infrastructure faces regarding climate change and future extreme weather events. In doing so, we hope to draw attention to a critical need for research that describes, plans for, and addresses disruptions to opioid use disorder treatment resulting from climate change–related weather events.
New Alcohol-related Condition Diagnoses Are Associated With Opioid Tapers Among Patients Receiving Long-term Opioid Therapy
Authors: Pytell Jarratt D. , Narwaney Komal J. , Nguyen Anh P. , Glanz Jason M. , Binswanger Ingrid A.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The study sought to describe the association between alcohol-related conditions (ARCs) and long-term opioid therapy (LTOT) dose trajectories among patients with chronic pain. We explored if ARCs moderated the association between LTOT tapers and mortality.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 3912 patients receiving LTOT. The association of ARCs before initiating LTOT with subsequent LTOT dose trajectories (increasing, decreasing, stable) was assessed using multinomial regression models. The association of LTOT trajectories with subsequently diagnosed new (incident) ARC was assessed using competing risks regression models. Lastly, we explored whether ARCs moderated the association between LTOT trajectories and all-cause mortality using Cox-proportional hazards models.

Results

Overall, 6.2% (n = 244) of patients receiving LTOT were diagnosed with an ARC prior to initiating LTOT. There was no association between an ARC prior to LTOT initiation with subsequent LTOT trajectory. Among patients without an ARC diagnosis before initiating LTOT, newly diagnosed ARCs were made in 1.3% (n = 50) of patients. Patients in the decreasing LTOT trajectory were twice as likely to be diagnosed with new ARCs compared to those in the stable LTOT trajectory (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.23 [95% CI, 1.15–4.29]). The presence of ARCs did not significantly moderate the relationship between LTOT trajectories and mortality risk.

Conclusions

Patients in the decreasing LTOT trajectory are at a higher risk of developing a new ARC. Implementing routine alcohol use screening among patients with LTOT taper would enable early identification for alcohol use. Interventions to reduce alcohol use may mitigate harms associated with LTOT taper.
The Midline Lateral Parapatellar Arthrotomy: A Safe Alternative Approach for Lateral Tibial Plateau Fractures
Authors: Heineman Nathan , Turner Alexander , Cheng Mingyuan , Grewal Ishvinder , Sanders Drew , Sathy Ashoke
Published: November 2024

OBJECTIVES:

The midline lateral parapatellar (LP) approach has been shown in a cadaveric study to provide superior articular exposure compared with the anterolateral approach (AL). The purpose of this study was to report on outcomes and complications with the LP approach.

METHODS:

Design:

Retrospective comparative cohort study and prospective cohort.

Setting:

Academic Level-I trauma center

Patient Selection Criteria:

Adult patients with minimum 3 months follow-up who underwent open reduction internal fixation of an acute, isolated lateral tibial plateau fracture (OTA/AO 41-B1, 41-B2, 41-B3) through an LP arthrotomy or AL submeniscal arthrotomy between 2010 and 2019.

Outcome Measures and Comparisons:

Retrospective cohort evaluated using postoperative complications including infection, delayed wound healing, and reoperation rate. Prospective cohort evaluated using Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment, knee range of motion, and complications.

RESULTS:

A total of 81 patients were studied. The mean age for the LP cohort was 41.5 years (19–79) and 18 of 32 (56.3%) patients were men. The mean age for the AL cohort was 42.8 years (18–71) and 29 of 49 (59.2%) patients were men. The mean age for patients in the prospective study was 31.4 years (19–59) and 9 of 14 (64.3%) patients were men. Mean follow-up was 9.3 months and 20.3 months for the retrospective and prospective cohorts, respectively. There was no significant difference in complication or reoperation rate (P > 0.39). For the prospective cohort of 14 patients, mean range of motion was 130 degrees. Mean Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment dysfunction index was 9.0 and mean bother index was 11.1.

CONCLUSIONS:

The LP approach resulted in comparable clinical and functional outcomes with those reported with the anterolateral approach. It is a safe alternative and may be of most benefit when treating comminuted lateral tibial plateau fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.