bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tailoring spin-sensitive focusings by optical metasurfaces
Authors: Zhu Hongyuan , He Canhui , Zhang Runxuan , Song Zhengyong
Published: June 2023

Metalens is composed of artificially subwavelength metal or dielectric meta-atoms arranged according to phase distribution of lens, and it can focus wave in a compact and flexible manner. However, conventional geometric phase-based metalens cannot focus spin-sensitive splitting beams, hindering the simultaneous control of two spins. Here, spin-sensitive plasmonic metasurfaces are presented with independent phase modulation capability for circularly polarized channels. These metasurfaces encode phase information by integrating propagating phase and geometric phase to achieve arbitrarily independent control of focal length and focal position for circularly polarized waves (CPWs). Three metasurfaces, including longitudinally splitting focusing, multidimensional spin-sensitive splitting focusing, and multifocal metasurface, are numerically displayed to confirm these predictions. Firstly, a longitudinally splitting focusing is designed with focal length 3 μm under left-handed circular polarization (LCP) incidence and focal length 5 μm under right-handed circular polarization (RCP) incidence. Secondly, two anomalously reflected converging beams are formed by superimposing different gradient phases on a multidimensional spin-sensitive splitting focusing under LCP and RCP illuminations. Finally, a multifocal metasurface is presented, and it has bifocal points and four focal points under LCP and RCP incidences. This work provides novel methods for flexible control of circular polarization-sensitive focusing.
Topological phase transitions and Majorana zero modes induced by the periodic potential in an antiferromagnetic chain
Authors: Shen K W , Chen Q
Published: June 2023

We investigate the topological properties of an antiferromagnetic (AFM) chain with an on-site periodic potential, considering the intrinsic spin–orbit coupling and an external Zeeman field along with the nanowire. Our results indicate that Majorana zero modes (MZMs) can be observed by adjusting the strength of the periodic potential. We have calculated the energy spectrum, the wave-function and transport properties, and all these results support the existence of MZMs in the AFM chain. Additionally, multiple topological phase transitions occur as the strength of the periodic potential changes, and several regions support MZMs.
Critical dispersion of chirped fiber Bragg grating for eliminating time delay signature of distributed feedback laser chaos
Authors: Wang Da-Ming , Lei Yi-Hang , Shi Peng-Fei , Li Zhuang-Ai
Published: June 2023

Optical chaos has attracted widespread attention owing to its complex dynamic behaviors. However, the time delay signature (TDS) caused by the external cavity mode reduces the complexity of optical chaos. We propose and numerically demonstrate the critical dispersion of chirped fiber Bragg grating (CFBG) for eliminating the TDS of laser chaos in this work. The critical dispersion, as a function of relaxation frequency and bandwidth of the optical spectrum, is found through extensive dynamics simulations. It is shown that the TDS can be eliminated when the dispersion of CFBG is above this critical dispersion. In addition, the influence of dispersive feedback light and output light from a laser is investigated. These results provide important quantitative guidance for designing chaotic semiconductor lasers without TDS.
RETRACTED: Tribological and microstructure studies of LM26/SiC metal matrix composite materials and structures for high temperature applications
Authors: Pawar Suyash Yashwantrao , Gohari Soheil , Ahmed Mizan , Sekar Santhosh Mozhuguan , Natarajan Elango , Rokkala Uzwalkiran , Ang Chun Kit , Mhaske Milind , Kolhe Vikram
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to investigate the tribological and microstructural characteristics of LM26 composites reinforced with silicon carbide to evaluate their suitability for high-temperature applications. For the sample fabrication, the modified stir-casting method was optimized using a Taguchi L16 orthogonal array. The wear rate and friction behavior were evaluated using the Taguchi’s S/N ratio analysis. When SiC was incorporated into the composite, the wear resistance increased by up to 15 wt%. The wear resistance of the LM26/SiC composite was improved compared to that of the pure LM26 aluminum alloy. The results of this study provide useful information to improve the wettability of metal matrix composites made from commercial-grade LM26 aluminum alloy by adjusting the SiC weight percentage. This type of composite has the potential as a replacement material for traditional applications such as heat sinks, heat exchanger fins, and electronic packaging.
Assessment of PTV margin adequacy for single isocenter multiple brain metastases using genetic algorithms
Authors: Rojas-López José Alejandro , Venencia Carlos Daniel , Chesta Miguel Ángel , Tamarit Francisco
Published: June 2023

Purpose. To study the impact on dose coverage and the dose to the healthy tissue applying optimized margins in single isocenter multiple brain metastases radiosurgery (SIMM-SRS) in linac machine based on setup rotations/translations induced errors calculated by a genetic algorithm (GA).Method.The following quality indices of SIMM-SRS were analyzed for 32 plans (256 lesions): Paddick conformity index (PCI), gradient index (GI), maximum (Dmax) and mean (Dmean) doses, local and global V12for the healthy brain. A GA based on Python packages were used to determine the maximum shift produced by induced errors of 0.2°/0.2 mm, and 0.5°/0.5 mm in 6 degrees of freedom.Results.In terms of Dmax, and Dmean, the quality of the optimized-margin plans remains unchanged (p > 0.072) concerning the original plan. However, considering the 0.5°/0.5 mm plans, PCI and GI decreased for ≥10 metastases, and local, and global V12increased considerably in all cases. To consider 0.2°/0.2 mm plans, PCI and GI get worse but local, and global V12improved in all cases.Conclusion.GA facilities to find the individualized margins automatically among the number of possible permutations of the setup order. The user-dependent margins are avoided. This computational approach takes into account more SRS sources of uncertainty, enabling the protection of the healthy brain by ‘smartly’ reducing the margins, and maintaining clinically acceptable target volumes’ coverage in most cases.
Measuring exciton-phonon coupling in semiconductor nanocrystals
Authors: Liu Albert , Almeida Diogo B , Cundiff Steven T , Padilha Lazaro A
Published: June 2023

At low excitation density, the dynamics of excitons in semiconductor nanocrystals are largely dictated by their interactions with the underlying atomic lattice. This exciton-phonon coupling (EPC) is responsible, for example, for absorption and luminescence linewidths at elevated temperatures, relaxation processes following optical excitation, and even degradation of quantum coherent applications. Characterizing and understanding EPC is therefore central to guiding rational design of colloidal nanocrystal materials and their device applications. In this review, we compare different spectroscopic methods of measuring exciton-phonon interactions and the complementary information that they provide. We emphasize the development of a new technique, termed multidimensional coherent spectroscopy, that circumvents many of the limitations of traditional methods.
Estimating the electric vehicle charging demand of multi-unit dwelling residents in the United States
Authors: Cheng Xi , Kontou Eleftheria
Published: June 2023

Early battery electric vehicle (EV) adopters can access home chargers for reliable charging. As the EV market grows, residents of multi-unit dwellings (MUDs) may face barriers in owning EVs and charging them without garage or parking availability. To investigate the mechanisms that can bridge existing disparities in home charging and station deployment, we characterized the travel behavior of MUD residents and estimated their EV residential charging demand. This study classifies the travel patterns of MUD residents by fusing trip diary data from the National Household Travel Survey and housing features from the American Housing Survey. A hierarchical agglomerative clustering method was used to cluster apartment complex residents’ travel profiles, considering attributes such as dwell time, daily vehicle miles traveled (VMT), income, and their residences’ US census division. We propose a charging decision model to determine the charging station placement demand in MUDs and the charging energy volume expected to be consumed, assuming that MUD drivers universally operate EVs in urban communities. Numerical experiments were conducted to gain insight into the charging demand of MUD residents in the US. We found that charging availability is indispensable for households that set out to meet 80% state of charge by the end of the day. When maintaining a 20% comfortable state of charge the entire day, the higher the VMT are, the greater the share of charging demand and the greater the energy use in MUD chargers. The upper-income group requires a greater share of MUD charging and greater daily kWh charged because of more VMT.
Arapid and sensitive triplex-recombinase polymerase amplification for simultaneous differentiation of Brucella abortus, Brucella melitensis, and Brucella suis in sera and foods
Authors: Chang Jiang , Hou Xusen , Yang Xin , Zhang Shi-Jun , Zou De-Ying , Li Feng , Zhang Ying , Li Yan-Song , Lu Shi-Ying , Hu Pan , Liu Zeng-Shan , Ren Hong-Lin
Published: June 2023

Brucella is the causative agent of brucellosis and can be transmitted to humans through aerosolized particles or contaminated food. Brucella abortus (B. abortus), Brucella melitensis (B. melitensis), and Brucella suis (B. suis) are the most virulent of the brucellae, but the traditional detection methods to distinguish them are time-consuming and require high instrumentation. To obtain epidemiological information on Brucella during livestock slaughter and food contamination, we developed a rapid and sensitive triplex recombinant polymerase amplification (triplex-RPA) assay that can simultaneously detect and differentiate between B. abortus, B. melitensis, and B. suis. Three pairs of primers (B1O7F/B1O7R, B192F/B192R, and B285F/B285R) were designed and screened for the establishment of the triplex-RPA assay. After optimization, the assay can be completed within 20 min at 39°C with good specificity and no cross-reactivity with five common pathogens. The triplex-RPA assay has a DNA sensitivity of 1–10 pg and a minimum detection limit of 2.14 × 104–2.14 × 105 CFU g−1 in B. suis spiked samples. It is a potential tool for the detection of Brucella and can effectively differentiate between B. abortus, B. melitensis, and B. suis S2, making it a useful tool for epidemiological investigations.
The effect of temperature on the nonlinear elasticity of a fault rock in dynamic acoustoelastic testing (DAET) experiments
Authors: Simpson Jonathan , Malcolm Alison E , van Wijk Kasper
Published: June 2023

Dynamic nonlinear elasticity in rocks may play an important role in earth processes, such as earthquake nucleation. In order to understand how nonlinear elasticity occurs within the shallow crust, experiments are required that simulate the in situ conditions of intact crustal rocks. Additionally, exploring the behaviour of nonlinear elasticity in response to changes in external parameters (e.g. temperature and wave frequency) acts as a means to further illuminate the complex mechanisms which give rise to nonlinear elasticity in rocks. In this study, we perform dynamic acoustoelastic testing (DAET) experiments on an intact cataclasite from the damage zone of the Alpine Fault, New Zealand. By performing pump-probe DAET experiments inside a temperature-controlled chamber, we are able to investigate a rich variety of nonlinear behaviour as a function of temperature. We find that the magnitude of average softening, cubic nonlinearity, and hysteresis tend to increase as temperature increases from 20 to 110 °C. In contrast, quadratic nonlinearity decreases with increasing temperature. These observations support the hypothesis that at least two distinct mechanisms control nonlinear phenomena in rocks. Nonlinear parameters show little to no dependence on frequency over the 200–600 Hz pump range, although values of the nonlinear parameter α are found to be nearly two orders of magnitude smaller than those determined using ultrasonic perturbations. Additionally, an analysis using different time windows shows that the surface waves of the ultrasonic probe sense greater nonlinearity compared to the direct P- wave due to differences in the polarization and propagation paths. As well as providing further insight into the mechanisms responsible for nonlinear elasticity in rocks, our experiments show that nonlinear softening will increase as temperature increases in the damage zones of faults. This has potential implications for understanding earthquake nucleation processes.
The role of audience favorability in processing (un)familiar messages: a heuristic-systematic model perspective
Authors: So Jiyeon , Liu Jiaying
Published: June 2023

Several mechanisms of processing (un)familiar messages—processing fluency, message fatigue, interest, and counterarguing—are documented but studied independently, preventing a holistic understanding of how we process (un)familiar messages. This research integrates these mechanisms under a coherent theoretical framework based on heuristic-systematic model and identifies which one becomes dominant as a joint function of message familiarity and audience favorability. Across two studies concerning social distancing (Study 1; N = 412) and smoking (Study 2; N = 300), message fatigue and counterarguing were heightened in unfavorable audiences processing familiar and unfamiliar messages, respectively. Interest was dominant among favorable audiences processing unfamiliar messages in Study 2. Processing fluency was not heightened under any conditions. In models testing mediational capacities of the four mechanisms simultaneously, message fatigue and interest were significant mediators of the effects of audience favorability and message familiarity on persuasion, respectively. This research underscores the importance of considering audience favorability when studying the effects of message familiarity.
Beyond A Vision for The Future: Tangible Steps To Engage Diverse Participants in Inclusive Field Experiences
Authors: Verble Robin M , Richards-Zawacki Corinne L , Young Vanessa K H
Published: June 2023

Synopsis

Recent strides toward improving diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in field biology present a unique opportunity for transdisciplinary exploration of the impacts and state of a topic that has remained hereto largely underexplored and under-discussed in the academic setting. Within current literature, themes of racial and gender inequity, power imbalances, unsafe environments, and underdeveloped infrastructure and resources are widespread. Thus, we organized a symposium that addressed these compelling issues in field biology DEI through a multitude of experiential and academic lenses. This article will orient the reader to the special issue and offer summative goals and outcomes of the symposium that can provide tangible steps toward creating meaningful improvements in the state of DEI and safety in field settings.
Diabetes, metformin use, and survival in esophageal cancer: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Wang Qiao-Li , Santoni Giola , Lagergren Jesper
Published: June 2023

Background

It is unclear how diabetes and metformin use is associated with survival of esophageal cancer.

Methods

This population-based cohort study included new cases of esophageal cancer reported in Sweden from 2006 to 2018 with follow-up through 2019. Diabetes status and metformin use were analyzed in relation to all-cause and disease-specific mortality using multivariable Cox regression. The hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were adjusted for age, sex, calendar year, obesity, comorbidity, and use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or statins. For comparison reasons, 3 other antidiabetic medications were also analyzed (ie, sulfonylureas, insulin, and thiazolidinedione).

Results

Among 4851 esophageal cancer patients (8404 person-years), 4072 (84%) died during follow-up. Compared with esophageal cancer patients with diabetes but not using metformin, decreased all-cause mortality was indicated among nondiabetic patients (without metformin) (HR = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.77 to 0.96) and diabetic patients who used metformin (HR = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.75 to 1.00). The hazard ratios of all-cause mortality decreased with a higher daily dose of metformin (Ptrend = .04). The corresponding hazard ratios for disease-specific mortality were similar but slightly attenuated. The results were also similar in separate analyses of esophageal cancer patients with adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, with tumor stage I-II or III-IV, and in those who had or had not undergone surgery. No associations with mortality outcomes were found for use of sulfonylureas, insulin, or thiazolidinedione.

Conclusions

Diabetes was associated with an increased all-cause mortality, whereas metformin use was associated with decreased all-cause mortality among esophageal cancer patients. More research is needed to determine if metformin affects survival in esophageal cancer.
How structural changes are driving R&D activity in India’s pharmaceutical sector
Authors: Sohrabji Niloufer , Marquette Kristen
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Rising Research and Development (R&D) activity has led to dramatic growth in India’s pharmaceutical market in the last decade. This increase in R&D was occurring at a time of significant changes in the sector, notably in the intellectual property rights (IPR) system and the sector’s increased focus on biopharmaceuticals. The objective of this study is to examine the impact of these structural changes along with the traditional drivers of R&D activity to better understand the transformation in India’s pharmaceutical sector during this period and shed light on its future trajectory.

Method

We extend the traditional model to estimate the determinants of R&D by incorporating the changes in India’s pharmaceutical sector during this period. With pooled data for the top 16 pharmaceutical firms during the last decade, this model is estimated using feasible generalised least squares.

Key findings

Our results show that R&D is affected by firm size, global reach, and profitability. Experience, particularly successful patent experience, is important. However, at some point, R&D activity resulting from longevity succumbs to diminishing returns. Also, the IPR environment and firm investment in biopharmaceutical treatment are important drivers of R&D.

Conclusion

Promoting R&D activity is vital to keep India’s pharmaceutical sector on its growth trajectory. Policies supporting the sector’s shift from imitation to innovation and promotion of biopharmaceutical treatment will ensure its continued success.
Induction of silicon defences in wheat landraces is local, not systemic, and driven by mobilization of soluble silicon to damaged leaves
Authors: Thorne Sarah J , Maathuis Frans J M , Hartley Susan E
Published: June 2023

In response to herbivory, many grasses, including crops such as wheat, accumulate significant levels of silicon (Si) as an antiherbivore defence. Damage-induced increases in Si can be localized in damaged leaves or be more systemic, but the mechanisms leading to these differences in Si distribution remain untested. Ten genetically diverse wheat landraces (Triticum aestivum) were used to assess genotypic variation in Si induction in response to mechanical damage and how this was affected by exogenous Si supply. Total and soluble Si levels were measured in damaged and undamaged leaves as well as in the phloem to test how Si was allocated to different parts of the plant after damage. Localized, but not systemic, induction of Si defences occurred, and was more pronounced when plants had supplemental Si. Damaged plants had significant increases in Si concentration in their damaged leaves, while the Si concentration in undamaged leaves decreased, such that there was no difference in the average Si concentration of damaged and undamaged plants. The increased Si in damaged leaves was due to the redirection of soluble Si, present in the phloem, from undamaged to damaged plant parts, potentially a more cost-effective defence mechanism for plants than increased Si uptake.
#3633 DIRECT EXOSOME TRANSFECTION WITH FLUORESCENTLY LABELED SMALL RNAS IS A USEFUL TOOL FOR EXOSOMAL CARGO TRAFFICKING AND RNAI IN CULTURED PODOCYTES
Authors: Lange Tim , Schüter Rabea , Endlich Nicole
Published: June 2023

Background and Aims

Podocytes, highly-specialized renal epithelial cells, display the outer aspect of the glomerular filtration barrier. Changes of their complex 3D morphology with interdigitating foot processes are the leading cause for 80% of chronic kidney disease (CKD) cases. During injury development podocytes release increased amounts of extracellular vesicles like exosomes with disease-specific small RNA cargo composition. Exosomes are referred to as important means of cell-cell communication and display an interesting tool for understanding intercellular communication in CKD pathogenesis. It is not clear if exosomes could serve as delivery system for specific small RNAs to podocytes as potential therapeutic approach. To address this, we investigated if isolated exosomes, directly transfected with fluorescently labeled small RNAs, are suitable for exosomal cargo trafficking and for functional delivery of small RNAs in cultured podocytes.

Method

We isolated exosomes from cultured, murine podocytes and transfected them directly with Cy3-labeled siRNAs and miRNAs using ExoFect siRNA/miRNA transfection kit. The transfected exosomes were characterized by transmission electron microscopy and Western blot. The fluorescently labeled exosomes were incubated with cultured, murine podocytes and exosome cargo uptake was observed time- and localization dependently by confocal laser-scanning microscopy. Isolated exosomes were also transfected with filamin A (FlnA)-siRNAs and pre-miR-21 and were co-incubated with cultured, murine podocytes. Transfection- and knockdown efficiency were confirmed by RT-qPCR, Western blot and immunofluorescence microscopy, respectively.

Results

The isolated exosomes displayed a typical shape and size of 20 nm revealed by transmission electron microscopy. This was also consistent after transfection. They also exhibited exosomal marker proteins CD9 and TSG101 before and after transfection. We could show that cultured, murine podocytes take up fluorescently labeled exosomal RNAs. We could observe an increasing amount of fluorescently labeled RNA intracellularly compared to a decreasing amount of fluorescently labeled RNAs in the periphery over 1 week of treatment indicating a time-dependent exosome uptake by podocytes. Transfection of exosomes with FlnA-siRNAs led to a decrease of FlnA-expression in podocytes co-cultured with transfected exosomes as revealed by immunofluorescence microscopy and Western blot. Podocytes incubated with pre-miR-21-transfected exosomes exhibited a 338-fold upregulation of miR-21 in RT-qPCR.

Conclusion

Here we show that direct transfection of exosomes with fluorescently labeled small RNAs is a useful tool for exosome cargo trafficking in podocytes. Additionally, we proved that small RNAs transfected into exosomes can be functionally used for RNAi in cultured podocytes. This might be a novel strategy for regulating protein and miRNA expression in cultured podocytes.
#4343 COMPARISONS OF CLINICAL OUTCOMES BETWEEN HYPERTENSIVE AND NORMOTENSIVE LIVING KIDNEY DONORS: A NATIONWIDE PROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY
Authors: Kim Jong Ho , Lee Yu Ho , Yoon Soo-Young , Kim Dae Kyu , Lim So Jin , Kim Jin Sug , Jeong Kyunghwan , Lee Sang Ho , Chung Ku Yong , Jeong Jong Cheol , Choi Soo Jin Na , Yang Jaeseok , Kim Myoung Soo , Hwang Hyeon Seok ,   Korean Organ Transplantation Registry Study Group
Published: June 2023

Background and Aims

Living kidney donors with hypertension is potential candidates to solve the imbalance between supply and demand for renal transplantation. However, the safety of hypertensive donor is not sufficiently ensured after donor nephrectomy and there are limited studies, which compare the clinical outcomes between hypertensive and normotensive donors.

Method

All data from this study were obtained from the Korean Organ Transplantation Registry (KOTRY). A total 672 hypertensive donors and 5,134 normotensive living kidney donors were included from May 2014 to December 2020. Primary outcome was the occurrence of proteinuria and the development of lower renal function, defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) less than 60 or 45 ml/min/1.73 m2.

Results

Compared to normotensive donors, hypertensive donors had lower eGFR before nephrectomy and remained lower after kidney transplantation. However, the risk of eGFR below 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 (adjusted HR, 0.87; 95% CI 0.70-1.09; P = 0.226) or below 45 ml/min/1.73 m2 (adjusted HR, 1.49; 95% CI 0.77-2.86; P = 0.234) was not significantly increased in hypertensive donors after multiple adjustment. When comparing the rate of eGFR decline between the hypertensive and normotensive donors, there was no significant difference (adjusted unstandardized β, −0.19; −1.15 – 0.76, P = 0.691). The incidence of proteinuria occurrence in hypertensive donor was increased, and it tended to increase even after 4-5 years. Hypertensive donors were found to have significantly more proteinuria than normotensive donors (adjusted HR, 1.83; 95% CI 1.13-2.96; P = 0.014).

Conclusion

Our study indicated that the risk of proteinuria after donation was increased in hypertensive donor, while it was not translated into significant decline in renal function. The continuous and careful monitoring for proteinuria should be required in hypertensive donor after nephrectomy.
Promoting optimal mental health outcomes for children and youth
Authors: Arruda Wilma , Bélanger Stacey A , Cohen Janice S , Hrycko Sophia , Kawamura Anne , Lane Margo , Patriquin Maria J , Korczak Daphne J
Published: June 2023

While paediatric care providers are often the first point of contact for children or youth experiencing mental health challenges, they may lack the resources (e.g., access to a multidisciplinary team) or training to adequately identify or manage such problems. This joint statement describes the key roles and competencies required to assess and address child and youth mental health problems, and the factors that optimize outcomes in this age group. Evidence-informed guidance on screening for and discussing mental health concerns with young people and families is provided. Preventive and therapeutic interventions with demonstrated efficacy in community care settings are discussed. This foundational statement also focuses on the changes to medical education, health systems, and health policy that are needed to improve clinical practice and advocacy efforts in Canada, including appropriate remuneration models, stepped-care approaches, targeted government funding, and professional training and education.
Ti-Bearing Minerals: from the Ocean Floor to Subduction and Back
Authors: Pereira Inês , Bruand Emilie , Nicollet Christian , Koga Kenneth T , Vitale Brovarone Alberto
Published: June 2023

Rutile, titanite, and ilmenite are the most common Ti-bearing minerals in metamorphic rocks. Experimental constraints have shown that titanite is stable at low-grade metamorphic conditions, rutile at high pressure (HP), and ilmenite at high temperature, low pressure (HT-LP) conditions. Yet, petrological evidence suggests that titanite can also be stable at low temperature, HP (LT-HP). This implies that both titanite and rutile can be used to develop proxies to track HP metamorphism, which can have interesting applications. In this study, we have investigated the natural occurrence and chemistry of Ti-bearing minerals in gabbroic rocks and basalts that record different degrees of metamorphism, including LP amphibole-bearing gabbros from the ocean floor (Mid-Atlantic and Indian ridge IODP LEGs) and from an obducted ophiolite (Chenaillet) and HP Alpine metagabbros and metabasalts, including blueschist and eclogite facies rocks from the Western Alps and Corsica. We have performed detailed petrography, Raman spectroscopy and analyzed major and trace elements mineral chemistry using EPMA and LA-ICPMS. We found that rutile is stable at low pressure (< 2 kbar) in ocean-floor amphibole-bearing gabbros, lower than experimental constraints had previously suggested. Rutile is also found in eclogitic metagabbros from the Western Alps and can be chemically distinguished from LP rutile. Blueschist metagabbros from the Western Alps and eclogitic metabasalts from Corsica have titanite stable instead of rutile. While the titanite to rutile transition is pressure- and temperature-dependent, we demonstrate how small variations in bulk-rock Ti/Ca and Ca/Al values within the NCKFMASHTO chemical system may shift their stabilities. High-pressure titanite from these metamafic rocks exhibits La depletion and low La/SmN values in comparison to titanite from amphibolite-facies mafic rocks. La/SmN or Nb together with Yb and V can be used to distinguish HP titanite from titanite formed under other P–T settings. These new systematics can be useful in studies using detrital Ti-bearing minerals to probe the HP metamorphic record through time.
The role of symptoms severity, heart rate, and central sensitization for predicting sleep quality in patients with fibromyalgia
Authors: Lima Daniel , Pacheco-Barrios Kevin , Slawka Eric , Camargo Lucas , Castelo-Branco Luis , Cardenas-Rojas Alejandra , Neto Moacir Silva , Fregni Felipe
Published: June 2023

Background

Clinical predictors of sleep quality in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) are still unknown. By identifying these factors, we could raise new mechanistic hypotheses and guide management approaches. We aimed to describe the sleep quality of FMS patients and to explore the clinical and quantitative sensory testing (QST) predictors of poor sleep quality and its subcomponents.

Methods

This study is a cross-sectional analysis of an ongoing clinical trial. We performed linear regression models between sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]) and demographic, clinical, and QST variables, controlling for age and gender. Predictors for the total PSQI score and its seven subcomponents were found using a sequential modeling approach.

Results

We included 65 patients. The PSQI score was 12.78 ± 4.39, with 95.39% classified as poor sleepers. Sleep disturbance, use of sleep medications, and subjective sleep quality were the worst subdomains. We found poor PSQI scores were highly associated with symptom severity (FIQR score and PROMIS fatigue), pain severity, and higher depression levels, explaining up to 31% of the variance. Fatigue and depression scores also predicted the subjective sleep quality and daytime dysfunction subcomponents. Heart rate changes (surrogate of physical conditioning) predicted the sleep disturbance subcomponent. QST variables were not associated with sleep quality or its subcomponents.

Conclusions

Symptom severity, fatigue, pain, and depression (but no central sensitization) are the main predictors of poor sleep quality. Heart rate changes independently predicted the sleep disturbance subdomain (the most affected one in our sample), suggesting an essential role of physical conditioning in modulating sleep quality in FMS patients. This underscores the need for multidimensional treatments targeting depression and physical activity to improve the sleep quality of FMS patients.
What We Teach About Race and Gender: Representation in Images and Text of Children’s Books
Authors: Adukia Anjali , Eble Alex , Harrison Emileigh , Runesha Hakizumwami Birali , Szasz Teodora
Published: June 2023

Books shape how children learn about society and norms, in part through representation of different characters. We use computational tools to characterize representation in children’s books widely read in homes, classrooms, and libraries over the past century and describe economic forces that may contribute to these patterns. We introduce new artificial intelligence methods for systematically converting images into data. We apply these tools, alongside text analysis methods, to measure skin color, race, gender, and age in the content of these books, documenting what has changed and what has endured over time. We find underrepresentation of Black and Latinx people in the most influential books, relative to their population shares, though representation of Black individuals increases over time. Females are also increasingly present but appear less often in text than in images, suggesting greater symbolic inclusion in pictures than substantive inclusion in stories. Characters in these influential books have lighter average skin color than in other books, even after conditioning on race, and children are depicted with lighter skin color than adults on average. We present empirical analysis of related economic behavior to better understand the representation we find in these books. On the demand side, we show that people consume books that center their own identities and that the types of children’s books purchased correlate with local political beliefs. On the supply side, we document higher prices for books that center nondominant social identities and fewer copies of these books in libraries that serve predominantly White communities.
Mindfulness in sex therapy and intimate relationships: a feasibility and randomized controlled pilot study in a cross-diagnostic group
Authors: Krieger Julie Fregerslev , Kristensen Ellids , Marquardsen Mikkel , Ofer Shlomy , Mortensen Erik Lykke , Giraldi Annamaria
Published: June 2023

Background

Mindfulness facets can be trained with structured mindfulness interventions, but little is known regarding application on a broader level within sex therapy (e.g. men, partners and different sexual dysfunctions).

Aim

To evaluate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of an 8-week intervention—specifically, mindfulness for sex and intimacy in relationships (MSIR)—as a supplement to treatment as usual (TAU) as compared with only TAU in a clinical sample of men and women referred for sexual difficulties with or without a partner.

Methods

In this randomized controlled feasibility pilot study, 34 participants were randomized to MSIR + TAU (n = 15) or TAU (n = 19). Six healthy partners were also included in the study. MSIR was administered as 2 individual evaluations and six 2-hour group sessions of mixed gender and different types of sexual dysfunction.

Outcomes

The primary outcome measures were as follows: (1) feasibility, defined as the implementation of recruitment, acceptance, and attendance of intervention in daily clinical practice and the MSIR completion rate; (2) sexual functioning, as measured on a visual analog scale (“bothered by problem”) and by validated questionnaires (Changes in Sexual Function Questionnaire for Females and Males, Female Sexual Function Index, Female Sexual Distress Scale, International Index of Erectile Function).

Results

MSIR was feasible and well received by patients, with high rates of acceptance and intervention completion. As compared with pretreatment, the MSIR + TAU group and TAU control group were significantly less bothered by their sexual problems at the end of treatment, but the change was significantly larger in the MSIR + TAU group (P = .04). Participants in the MSIR + TAU group did not receive fewer TAU sessions than the TAU group (MSIR + TAU mean, 6 sessions; TAU mean, 8 sessions).

Clinical Implications

MSIR could be effectively used in a clinical setting as an add-on to TAU in the treatment of female and male sexual dysfunction and healthy partners.

Strengths and Limitations

The major strength of the study is that it is a randomized controlled study. This study is novel in the sense that it included men and women with different types of sexual dysfunction in the same mindfulness group. Limitations include the pilot nature of the study (e.g. a small sample size), and statistical conclusions should be made with caution. More accurate results may be found in a larger sample.

Conclusion

Results from this study support already existing evidence that mindfulness-based interventions are feasible and effective for targeting sexual dysfunctions in men and women.
Subsistence Farming and Factor Misallocation: Evidence from Ugandan Agriculture
Authors: Morando Bruno
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a model where misallocation in the agricultural factors of production is caused by transportation costs to and from local markets, which result in an inefficiently large share of inputs operated by less productive subsistence farmers. The model derives some testable predictions which are verified in the empirical analysis, based on a representative census of Ugandan farms. Specifically, subsistence farmers operate inefficiently high shares of land and capital and the efficiency losses are more severe in areas where subsistence farming is more widespread, due to lower connectivity with local markets. Conversely, there is no relationship between the level of misallocation and credit access and/or land-market activity. These findings suggest that transportation costs play a key role in determining the efficiency of agricultural input distribution and that land-market liberalization is a necessary but not sufficient condition to tackle misallocation.
Identification of Novel QTLs/Defense Genes in Spring Wheat Germplasm Panel for Seedling and Adult Plant Resistance to Stem Rust and Their Validation Through KASP Marker Assays
Authors: Pradhan Anjan Kumar , Budhlakoti Neeraj , Chandra Mishra Dwijesh , Prasad Pramod , Bhardwaj S. C. , Sareen Sindhu , Sivasamy M. , Jayaprakash P. , Geetha M. , Nisha R. , Shajitha P. , Peter John , Kaur Amandeep , Kaur Satinder , Vikas V. K. , Singh Kuldeep , Kumar Sundeep
Published: June 2023

Stem rust is one of the major diseases threatening wheat production globally. To identify novel resistance quantitative trait loci (QTLs), we performed 35K Axiom Array SNP genotyping assays on an association mapping panel of 400 germplasm accessions, including Indian landraces, in conjunction with phenotyping for stem rust at seedling and adult plant stages. Association analyses using three genome wide association study (GWAS) models (CMLM, MLMM, and FarmCPU) revealed 20 reliable QTLs for seedling and adult plant resistance. Among these 20 QTLs, five QTLs were found consistent with three models, i.e., four QTLs on chromosome 2AL, 2BL, 2DL, and 3BL for seedling resistance and one QTL on chromosome 7DS for adult plant resistance. Further, we identified a total of 21 potential candidate genes underlying QTLs using gene ontology analysis, including a leucine rich repeat receptor (LRR) and P-loop nucleoside triphosphate hydrolase, which have a role in pathogen recognition and disease resistance. Furthermore, four QTLs (Qsr.nbpgr-3B_11, QSr.nbpgr-6AS_11, QSr.nbpgr-2AL_117-6, and QSr.nbpgr-7BS_APR) were validated through KASP located on chromosomes 3B, 6A, 2A, and 7B. Out of these QTLs, QSr.nbpgr-7BS_APR was identified as a novel QTL for stem rust resistance which has been found effective in both seedling as well as the adult plant stages. Identified novel genomic regions and validated QTLs have the potential to be deployed in wheat improvement programs to develop disease resistant varieties for stem rust and can diversify the genetic basis of resistance.
Postpartum Home Blood Pressure Monitoring
Authors: Steele Dale W. , Adam Gaelen P. , Saldanha Ian J. , Kanaan Ghid , Zahradnik Michael L. , Danilack-Fekete Valery A. , Stuebe Alison M. , Peahl Alex F. , Chen Kenneth K. , Balk Ethan M.
Published: June 2023

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the effectiveness of postpartum home blood pressure (BP) monitoring compared with clinic-based follow-up and the comparative effectiveness of alternative home BP–monitoring regimens.

DATA SOURCES:

Search of Medline, Cochrane, EMBASE, CINAHL, and ClinicalTrials.gov from inception to December 1, 2022, searching for home BP monitoring in postpartum individuals.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION:

We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), nonrandomized comparative studies, and single-arm studies that evaluated the effects of postpartum home BP monitoring (up to 1 year), with or without telemonitoring, on postpartum maternal and infant outcomes, health care utilization, and harm outcomes. After double screening, we extracted demographics and outcomes to SRDR+.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS:

Thirteen studies (three RCTs, two nonrandomized comparative studies, and eight single-arm studies) met eligibility criteria. All comparative studies enrolled participants with a diagnosis of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. One RCT compared home BP monitoring with bidirectional text messaging with scheduled clinic-based BP visits, finding an increased likelihood that at least one BP measurement was ascertained during the first 10 days postpartum for participants in the home BP–monitoring arm (relative risk 2.11, 95% CI 1.68–2.65). One nonrandomized comparative study reported a similar effect (adjusted relative risk [aRR] 1.59, 95% CI 1.36–1.77). Home BP monitoring was not associated with the rate of BP treatment initiation (aRR 1.03, 95% CI 0.74–1.44) but was associated with reduced unplanned hypertension-related hospital admissions (aRR 0.12, 95% CI 0.01–0.96). Most patients (83.3–87.0%) were satisfied with management related to home BP monitoring. Home BP monitoring, compared with office-based follow-up, was associated with reduced racial disparities in BP ascertainment by approximately 50%.

CONCLUSION:

Home BP monitoring likely improves ascertainment of BP, which is necessary for early recognition of hypertension in postpartum individuals, and may compensate for racial disparities in office-based follow-up. There is insufficient evidence to conclude that home BP monitoring reduces severe maternal morbidity or mortality or reduces racial disparities in clinical outcomes.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION:

PROSPERO, CRD42022313075.
A novel prognostic signature contributes to precision treatment in colon adenocarcinoma with KRAS mutation
Authors: Dong Weiwei , Zhang He , Li Qingyan , Guan Na , Yun Chao , Zhao Huixia , Zhang Fengyun , Zeng Zhiyan , Hu Yanyan , Li Qiuwen , Yang Jingwen , Ma Zihuan , Chen Meiling , Xiao Wenhua
Published: June 2023

Background

Approximately 40% of colon cancer harbor Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene (KRAS) mutations, but the prognostic value of KRAS mutations in colon cancer is still controversial.

Methods

We enrolled 412 colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) patients with KRAS mutations, 644 COAD patients with KRAS wild-type and 357 COAD patients lacking information on KRAS status from five independent cohorts. A random forest model was developed to estimate the KRAS status. The prognostic signature was established using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator-Cox regression and evaluated by Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, multivariate-Cox analysis, receiver operating characteristic curve and nomogram. The expression data of KRAS-mutant COAD cell lines from the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia database and the corresponding drug sensitivity data from the Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer database were used for potential target and agent exploration.

Results

We established a 36-gene prognostic signature classifying the KRAS-mutant COAD as high and low risk. High risk patients had inferior prognoses compared to those with low risk, while the signature failed to distinguish the prognosis of COAD with KRAS wild-type. The risk score was the independent prognostic factor for KRAS-mutant COAD and we further fabricated the nomograms with good predictive efficiency. Moreover, we suggested FMNL1 as a potential drug target and three drugs as potential therapeutic agents for KRAS-mutant COAD with high risk.

Conclusion

We established a precise 36-gene prognostic signature with great performance in prognosis prediction of KRAS-mutant COAD providing a new strategy for personalized prognosis management and precision treatment for KRAS-mutant COAD.
Changes in early postoperative outcomes and complications observed in a single center during the 2022 COVID-19 pandemic wave in China: A single-center ambispective cohort study
Authors: Wang Lini , Zheng Ziyu , Zhu Shouqiang , Luo Gang , Gao Baobao , Ma Yumei , Xu Shuai , Dong Hailong , Lei Chong
Published: June 2023

Background:

Currently, the effect of the 2022 nationwide coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) wave on the perioperative prognosis of surgical patients in China is unclear. Thus, we aimed to explore its influence on postoperative morbidity and mortality in surgical patients.

Methods:

An ambispective cohort study was conducted at Xijing Hospital, China. We collected 10-day time-series data from December 29 until January 7 for the 2018–2022 period. The primary outcome was major postoperative complications (Clavien–Dindo class III–V). The association between COVID-19 exposure and postoperative prognosis was explored by comparing consecutive 5-year data at the population level and by comparing patients with and without COVID-19 exposure at the patient level.

Results:

The entire cohort consisted of 3350 patients (age: 48.5 ± 19.2 years), including 1759 females (52.5%). Overall, 961 (28.7%) underwent emergency surgery, and 553 (16.5%) had COVID-19 exposure (from the 2022 cohort). At the population level, major postoperative complications occurred in 5.9% (42/707), 5.7% (53/935), 5.1% (46/901), 9.4% (11/117), and 22.0% (152/690) patients in the 2018–2022 cohorts, respectively. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, the 2022 cohort (80% patients with COVID-19 history) had a significantly higher postoperative major complication risk than did the 2018 cohort (adjusted risk difference [aRD], 14.9% (95% confidence interval [CI], 11.5–18.4%); adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 8.19 (95% CI, 5.24–12.81)). At the patient level, the incidence of major postoperative complications was significantly greater in patients with (24.6%, 136/553) than that in patients without COVID-19 history (6.0% [168/2797]; aRD, 17.8% [95% CI, 13.6–22.1%]; aOR, 7.89 [95% CI, 5.76–10.83]). Secondary outcomes of postoperative pulmonary complications were consistent with primary findings. These findings were verified through sensitivity analyses using time-series data projections and propensity score matching.

Conclusion:

Based on a single-center observation, patients with recent COVID-19 exposure were likely to have a high incidence of major postoperative complications.

Registration:

NCT05677815 at https://clinicaltrials.gov/.