bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
State-Level Gestational Diabetes Prevalence Estimates from Three Data Sources, 2018
Authors: Bolduc Michele L.F. , Mercado Carla I. , Zhang Yan , Lundeen Elizabeth A. , Ford Nicole D. , Bullard Kai McKeever , Carty Denise C.
Published: October 2023

We investigated 2018 gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) prevalence estimates in three surveillance systems (National Vital Statistics System, State Inpatient Database, and Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring Survey). We calculated state GDM prevalence for each system; a subset of data was analyzed for women 18-39 years old in 22 locations present in all three systems to observe dataset-specific demographics and GDM prevalence using comparable categories. GDM prevalence estimates varied widely by data system and within the data subset despite comparable demographics. Understanding the differences between GDM surveillance data systems can help researchers better identify people and places at higher risk of GDM.
Infernape uncovers cell type–specific and spatially resolved alternative polyadenylation in the brain
Authors: Kang Bowei , Yang Yalan , Hu Kaining , Ruan Xiangbin , Liu Yi-Lin , Lee Pinky , Lee Jasper , Wang Jingshu , Zhang Xiaochang
Published: October 2023

Differential polyadenylation sites (PAs) critically regulate gene expression, but their cell type–specific usage and spatial distribution in the brain have not been systematically characterized. Here, we present Infernape, which infers and quantifies PA usage from single-cell and spatial transcriptomic data and show its application in the mouse brain. Infernape uncovers alternative intronic PAs and 3′-UTR lengthening during cortical neurogenesis. Progenitor–neuron comparisons in the excitatory and inhibitory neuron lineages show overlapping PA changes in embryonic brains, suggesting that the neural proliferation–differentiation axis plays a prominent role. In the adult mouse brain, we uncover cell type–specific PAs and visualize such events using spatial transcriptomic data. Over two dozen neurodevelopmental disorder–associated genes such asCsnk2a1andMecp2show differential PAs during brain development. This study presents Infernape to identify PAs from scRNA-seq and spatial data, and highlights the role of alternative PAs in neuronal gene regulation.
Promoting X-ray scattering data analysis with two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy
Authors: Zhang Peng , Liu Zhen , Wei Cuiting , Chen Guixiang , Zhao Qianning , Sun Dongbai
Published: October 2023

In situ X-ray scattering (XrS) experiments provide an impressive level of detail about microstructures and their evolution following a change in environment in soft matter; however, a major obstacle is examining the huge amount of data. In this work, the applications of two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2DCS) in the XrS data analysis are demonstrated with three exemplary studies. The responses of three typical soft-matter systems (thin film, solution and solid) to a change in environment (i.e. concentration, temperature) were chosen as the subjects of this study. In situ grazing-incidence small-angle X-ray scattering, small-angle X-ray scattering and wide-angle X-ray scattering results were analyzed with the 2DCS method. On the basis of Noda's rule, it is demonstrated that the 2DCS-XrS results could not only disclose the weak scattering signal common to organic-based materials but also determine the sequential order of the structures of interest by referring to their strong response to a change in environment. It is expected that the 2DCS method could promote XrS data analysis in a simple, fast and reliable way, which might interest users without extensive X-ray scattering knowledge. These features could help to convert XrS data into knowledge that can be implemented in advanced materials preparation.
HETU: a new high-resolution stress and texture neutron diffractometer at China Mianyang Research Reactor
Authors: Wang Baihua , Zhong Shengyi , Lin Hao , Goukassov Arsen , Yang Zhaolong , Li Jian , Sun Guang-ai
Published: October 2023

HETU is a new high-resolution stress and texture neutron diffractometer installed at the C1 neutron guide at China Mianyang Research Reactor. The diffractometer is designed for precise residual stress and texture analysis of engineering components, as well as in situ investigations under various sample environments for engineering materials. The wavelength range of monochromatic incident neutrons is 1.634–5.800 Å, provided either by a double-focusing perfect single-crystal silicon monochromator in high instrument resolution mode or by a highly oriented pyrolytic graphite monochromator in high neutron flux mode. The intrinsic peak widths of HETU have been measured using a standard silicon powder sample, and residual stress measurements of an aluminium alloy shrink-fit ring and plug have been carried out. These results demonstrate that HETU is a reliable and appropriately designed diffractometer for promoting materials investigation.
Synthesis, crystal structure and properties of tetrakis(pyridine-3-carbonitrile)dithiocyanatoiron(II) and of diaquabis(pyridine-3-carbonitrile)dithiocyanatoiron(II) pyridine-3-carbonitrile monosolvate
Authors: Näther Christian , Müller-Meinhard Asmus , Jess Inke
Published: October 2023

The reaction of iron thiocyanate with 3-cyanopyridine (C6H4N2) leads to the formation of two compounds with the composition [Fe(NCS)2(C6H4N2)4] (1) and [Fe(NCS)2(C6H4N2)2(H2O)2]·2C6H4N2 (2). The asymmetric unit of 1 consists of one iron cation, two thiocyanate anions and four 3-cyanopyridine ligands in general positions. The iron cation is octahedrally coordinated by two N-bonded thiocyanate anions and four 3-cyanopyridine ligands. The complexes are arranged in columns along the crystallographic c-axis direction and are linked by weak C—H...N interactions. In 2, the asymmetric unit consists of one iron cation on a center of inversion as well as one thiocyanate anion, one 3-cyanopyridine ligand, one water ligand and one 3-cyanopyridine solvate molecule in general positions. The iron cation is octahedrally coordinated by two N-bonded thiocyanate anions, two cyanopyridine ligands and two water ligands. O—H...N and C—H...S hydrogen bonding is observed between the water ligands and the solvent 3-cyanopyridine molecules. In the crystal structure, alternating layers of the iron complexes and the solvated 3-cyanopyridine molecules are observed. Powder X-ray (PXRD) investigations reveal that both compounds were obtained as pure phases and from IR spectroscopic measurements conclusions on the coordination mode of the thiocanate anions and the cyanogroup were made. Thermogravimetric (TG) and differential thermoanalysis (DTA) of 1 indicate the formation of a compound with the composition {[Fe(NCS)2]3(C6H4N2)4}
n
that is isotypic to the corresponding Cd compound already reported in the literature. TG/DTA of 2 show several mass losses. The first mass loss corresponds to the removal of the two water ligands leading to the formation of 1, which transforms into {[Fe(NCS)2]3(C6H4N2)4}
n
, upon further heating.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of triazatriborinotris[1,3,2]benzodiazaborole acetone disolvate
Authors: Streeter Cole , Wheeler Kraig A. , Lamm Ashley N.
Published: October 2023

The title compound, alternatively known as benzodiazaborole trimer, C18H15B3N6·2C3H6O, at 100 K crystallizes in the triclinic system, space group P\overline{1}. The structure displays N—H...O hydrogen bonding connecting the main molecule with the crystallization solvent. Disorder of the main molecule is observed with occupancy factors refined to 0.8922 (14):0.1078 (14). The packing of the crystal shows a parallel-displaced atom-centered orientation with 3.30 (2) Å between the planes of the rings. In the solid state, the title compound is linked with weak C—H...π interactions, which is supported by Hirshfeld surface analysis.
Open‐label, clinical trial extension: Two‐year safety and efficacy results of seladelpar in patients with primary biliary cholangitis
Authors: Mayo Marlyn J. , Vierling John M. , Bowlus Christopher L. , Levy Cynthia , Hirschfield Gideon M. , Neff Guy W. , Galambos Michael R. , Gordon Stuart C. , Borg Brian B. , Harrison Stephen A. , Thuluvath Paul J. , Goel Aparna , Shiffman Mitchell L. , Swain Mark G. , Jones David E. J. , Trivedi Palak , Kremer Andreas E. , Aspinall Richard J. , Sheridan David A. , Dörffel Yvonne , Yang Ke , Choi Yun‐Jung , McWherter Charles A.
Published: October 2023

Background

Seladelpar is a potent and selective peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐δ agonist that targets multiple cell types involved in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), leading to anti‐cholestatic, anti‐inflammatory and anti‐pruritic effects.

Aims

To evaluate the long‐term safety and efficacy of seladelpar in patients with PBC.

Methods

In an open‐label, international, long‐term extension study, patients with PBC completing seladelpar lead‐in studies continued treatment. Seladelpar was taken orally once daily at doses of 5 or 10 mg with dose adjustment permitted for safety or tolerability. The primary analysis was for safety and the secondary efficacy analysis examined biochemical markers of cholestasis and liver injury. The study was terminated early due to the unexpected histological findings in a concurrent study for non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis, which were subsequently found to predate treatment. Safety and efficacy data were analysed through 2 years.

Results

There were no serious treatment‐related adverse events observed among 106 patients treated with seladelpar for up to 2 years. There were four discontinuations for safety, one possibly related to seladelpar. Among 53 patients who completed 2 years of seladelpar, response rates increased from years 1 to 2 for the composite endpoint (alkaline phosphatase [ALP] <1.67 × ULN, ≥15% decrease in ALP, and total bilirubin ≤ULN) and ALP normalisation from 66% to 79% and from 26% to 42%, respectively. In those with elevated bilirubin at baseline, 43% achieved normalisation at year 2.

Conclusions

Seladelpar was safe, and markedly improved biochemical markers of cholestasis and liver injury in patients with PBC. These effects were maintained or improved throughout the second year. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03301506; Clinicaltrialsregister.eu: 2017‐003910‐16.
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk profile of patients with chronic hepatitis B treated with tenofovir alafenamide or tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for 96 weeks
Authors: Fung Scott K. , Pan Calvin Q. , Wong Grace Lai‐Hung , Seto Wai‐Kay , Ahn Sang Hoon , Chen Chi‐Yi , Hann Hie‐Won L. , Jablkowski Maciej S. , Kim Yoon Jun , Yurdaydin Cihan , Peng Cheng‐Yuan , Nguyen Tuan , Yatsuhashi Hiroshi , Flaherty John F. , Yee Leland J. , Abramov Frida , Wang Hongyuan , Abdurakhmanov Dzhamal , Lim Young‐Suk , Buti Maria
Published: October 2023

Background

Patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) who switch from tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) to tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) show changes in lipid profiles.

Aim

To evaluate how these changes affect cardiovascular risk.

Methods

This pooled analysis, based on two large prospective studies, evaluated fasting lipid profiles of patients with CHB who were treated with TAF 25 mg/day or TDF 300 mg/day for 96 weeks. Patients who fulfilled the American College of Cardiology criteria (age 40–79 years, high‐density lipoprotein [HDL] 20–100 mg/dL, total cholesterol [TC] 130–320 mg/dL and systolic blood pressure 90–200 mmHg) required to assess 10‐year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk with baseline lipid data and at least one post‐baseline measurement were included in the ASCVD‐risk population. The 10‐year ASCVD risk was calculated for patients in this population, and changes from baseline to Week 96 were assessed using intermediate‐ (≥7.5%) and high‐risk (≥20%) cut‐offs.

Results

Among 1632 patients, 620 (38%) met the criteria for the ASCVD‐risk population. At Week 96, fasting levels of all lipids, except TC:HDL ratio, were lower with TDF than TAF. No significant increase was observed in overall ASCVD risk or in any ASCVD‐risk categories during the 96‐week treatment period compared with baseline. A similar proportion of patients in the TAF and TDF treatment groups (1.3% and 2.3%, respectively; p = 0.34) reported cardiovascular events.

Conclusion

Despite on‐treatment differences in lipid profiles with TAF and TDF, predicted cardiovascular risk and clinical events were similar for both groups after 96 weeks.
DNA‐pools targeted‐sequencing as a robust cost‐effective method to detect rare variants: Application to dilated cardiomyopathy genetic diagnosis
Authors: Perret Claire , Proust Carole , Esslinger Ulrike , Ader Flavie , Haas Jan , Pruny Jean‐François , Isnard Richard , Richard Pascale , Trégouët David‐Alexandre , Charron Philippe , Cambien François , Villard Eric
Published: October 2023

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heart disease characterized by left ventricular dilatation and systolic dysfunction. In 30% of cases, pathogenic variants, essentially private to each patient, are identified in at least one of almost 50 reported genes. Thus, while costly, exons capture‐based Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) of a targeted gene panel appears as the best strategy to genetically diagnose DCM. Here, we report a NGS strategy applied to pools of 8 DNAs from DCM patients and validate its robustness for rare variants detection at 4‐fold reduced cost. Our pipeline uses Freebayes to detect variants with the expected 1/16 allele frequency. From the whole set of detected rare variants in 96 pools we set the variants quality parameters optimizing true positives calling. When compared to simplex DNA sequencing in a shared subset of 50 DNAs, 96% of SNVs/InsDel were accurately identified in pools. Extended to the 384 DNAs included in the study, we detected 100 variants (ACMG class 4 and 5), mostly in well‐known morbid gene causing DCM such as TTN, MYH7, FLNC, and TNNT2. To conclude, we report an original pool‐sequencing NGS method accurately detecting rare variants. This innovative approach is cost‐effective for genetic diagnostic in rare diseases.
Neural Shading Fields for Efficient Facial Inverse Rendering
Authors: Rainer G. , Bridgeman L. , Ghosh A.
Published: October 2023

Given a set of unstructured photographs of a subject under unknown lighting, 3D geometry reconstruction is relatively easy, but reflectance estimation remains a challenge. This is because it requires disentangling lighting from reflectance in the ambiguous observations. Solutions exist leveraging statistical, data‐driven priors to output plausible reflectance maps even in the under‐constrained single‐view, unknown lighting setting. We propose a very low‐cost inverse optimization method that does not rely on data‐driven priors, to obtain high‐quality diffuse and specular, albedo and normal maps in the setting of multi‐view unknown lighting. We introduce compact neural networks that learn the shading of a given scene by efficiently finding correlations in the appearance across the face. We jointly optimize the implicit global illumination of the scene in the networks with explicit diffuse and specular reflectance maps that can subsequently be used for physically‐based rendering. We analyze the veracity of results on ground truth data, and demonstrate that our reflectance maps maintain more detail and greater personal identity than state‐of‐the‐art deep learning and differentiable rendering methods.
Efficient Caustics Rendering via Spatial and Temporal Path Reuse
Authors: Xu Xiaofeng , Wang Lu , Wang Beibei
Published: October 2023

Caustics are complex optical effects caused by the light being concentrated in a small area due to reflection or refraction on surfaces with low roughness, typically under a sharp light source. Rendering caustic effects is challenging for Monte Carlo‐based approaches, due to the difficulties of sampling the specular paths. One effective solution is using the specular manifold to locate these valid specular paths. Unfortunately, it needs many iterations to find these paths, leading to a long rendering time. To address this issue, our key insight is that the specular paths tend to be similar for neighboring shading points. To this end, we propose to reuse the specular paths spatially. More specifically, we generate some specular path samples with a low sample rate and then reuse these specular path samples as the initialization for specular manifold walk among neighboring shading points. In this way, much fewer specular path‐searching iterations are performed, due to the efficient initialization close to the final solution. Furthermore, this reuse strategy can be extended for dynamic scenes in a temporal manner, such as light moving or specular geometry deformation. Our method outperforms current state‐of‐the‐art methods and can handle multiple bounces of light and various scenes.
Beneficial effects of automated insulin delivery over one‐year follow‐up in real life for youths and adults with type 1 diabetes irrespective of patient characteristics
Authors: Henry Zoé , Villar Fimbel Sylvie , Bendelac Nathalie , Perge Kevin , Thivolet Charles
Published: October 2023

Aim

To investigate glycaemic outcomes in youths and adults with type 1 diabetes with either MiniMed™ 780G or Tandem t:slim X2™ control‐IQ automated insulin delivery (AID) systems and to evaluate clinical factors that migrate, mitigate the achievement of therapeutic goals.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective, real‐world, observational study was conducted in a specialized university type 1 diabetes centre with patients observed for 3‐12 months post‐initiation of an AID system. Primary outcomes were the percentage time in the target glucose range [TIR70‐180 mg/dl (3.9‐10 mmol/L)] as measured by continuous glucose monitoring, mean glucose management indicator (GMI) and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels.

Results

Our study cohort consisted of 48 adolescents and 183 adults (55% females) aged 10‐77 years. The mean (95% confidence interval) TIR70‐180 mg/dl after 30 days was higher than baseline and by 14% points after 360 days with 71.33% (69.4‐73.2) (n = 123, p < .001). HbA1c levels decreased by 0.7% and GMI by 0.6% after 360 days. The proportion of time spent <70 mg/dl (3.9 mmol/L) was not significantly different from baseline. During follow‐up, 780G users had better continuous glucose monitoring results than control‐IQ users but similar HbA1c levels, and an increased risk of weight gain. Age at onset influenced TIR70‐180 mg/dl in univariate analysis but there was no significant relationship after adjusting on explanatory variables. Baseline body mass index did not influence the performance of AID systems.

Conclusions

This analysis showed the beneficial effects of two AID systems for people with type 1 diabetes across a broad spectrum of participant characteristics. Only half of the participants achieved international recommendations for glucose control with TIR70‐180 mg/dl >70%, HbA1c levels or GMI <7%, which outlines the need to maintain strong educational and individual strategies.
Cross‐scale assessments of the impacts and resilience of subtropical montane cloud forests to chronic seasonal droughts and episodic typhoons
Authors: Wang Hsueh‐Ching , Huang Cho‐ying
Published: October 2023

Montane cloud forests (MCFs) are ecosystems frequently immersed in fog and are vital for the terrestrial hydrological cycle and biodiversity hotspots. However, the potential impacts of climate change, particularly intensified droughts and typhoons, on the persistence of ecosystems remain unclear. Our study conducted cross‐scale assessments using 6‐year (2016–2021) ground litterfall and 21‐year (2001–2021) satellite greenness data (the Enhanced Vegetation Index [EVI] and the EVI anomaly change [ΔEVI%]), gross primary productivity anomaly change (ΔGPP%), and meteorological variables (the standardized precipitation index [SPI] and wind speed). We found a positive correlation between summer EVI and ΔGPP% with the SPI‐3 (3‐month time scale), while winter litterfall showed a negative correlation. Maximum typhoon daily wind speed was negatively correlated with summer and the monthly ΔEVI% and ΔGPP%. These findings suggest vegetation damage and productivity loss were related to drought and typhoon intensities. Furthermore, our analysis highlighted that chronic seasonal droughts had more pronounced impacts on MCFs than severe typhoons, implying that high precipitation and frequent fog immersion do not necessarily mitigate the ramifications of water deficit on MCFs but might render MCFs more sensitive and vulnerable to drought. A significant negative correlation between the summer and winter ΔEVI% and ΔGPP% of the same year, suggesting disturbance severity during summer may facilitate vegetation regrowth and carbon accumulation in the subsequent winter. This finding may be attributed to the ecological resilience of MCFs, which enables them to recover from the previous summer. In the long‐term, our results indicated an increase in vegetation resilience over two decades in MCFs, likely driven by rising temperatures and elevated carbon dioxide levels. However, the enhancement of resilience might be overshadowed by the potential intensified droughts and typhoons in the future, potentially causing severe damage and insufficient recovery times for MCFs, thus raising concerns about uncertainties regarding their sustained resilience.
Negotiating autonomy in the public sector and nonprofits “collaborations” in politically contested fields
Authors: Caló Francesca , Numerato Dino , Bontenbal Ilona , Kourachanis Nikos , Scognamiglio Fulvio
Published: October 2023

Nonprofits are increasingly involved in cross‐sectoral collaborations with the public sector. However, we know little about the dynamics behind these collaborations and what happens to them in politically contested fields where actors may have divergent positions. In this article, a multi‐country comparison of data gathered from semi‐structured interviews (n = 68) with representatives of nonprofits involved in the labor market inclusion of newcomers is presented. Our findings indicate that, in politically contested fields, the possibility of participating in cross‐sectoral collaborations (political autonomy) is influenced by nonprofits' financial and ideological autonomy. Welfare models and migration regimes play a fundamental role in shaping the inclusion of these organizations in collaborations, and in most cases, the collaborations are based on latent conflicts. Our article discusses that if the costs of autonomy associated with cross‐sectoral collaborations are not offset, the collaboration in a politically contested field becomes a liability for nonprofits (and their beneficiaries).
PD‐1 expression on tumour‐infiltrating cells is a prognostic factor for relapsed or refractory diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Wada Fumiya , Kamijo Kimimori , Shimomura Yoshimitsu , Yamashita Daisuke , Hara Shigeo , Ishikawa Takayuki
Published: October 2023

Background

The tumour microenvironment (TME), which is modulated after immune‐chemotherapy, is involved in tumour growth and metastasis. Programmed cell death 1 (PD‐1) expressed on tumour‐infiltrating non‐malignant cells plays an important role in the TME through the PD‐1/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) signalling pathway. However, its impact in patients with relapsed or refractory (R/R) diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) remains unclear.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study using tissue samples at relapse for patients with R/R DLBCL (n = 45) and evaluated the clinical impact of PD‐1 expression on tumour‐infiltrating non‐malignant cells (microenvironmental PD‐1, mPD‐1). In addition, corresponding 27 samples at diagnosis were analysed to evaluate the changes in PD‐1/PD‐L1 expression in the TME after chemotherapy.

Results

Patients with mPD‐1+ DLBCL showed significantly better overall survival compared with patients with mPD‐1− DLBCL (hazard ratio, 0.30, p = 0.03). Among patients with mPD‐1− DLBCL, those positive for neoplastic or microenvironmental PD‐L1 (nPD‐L1+ or mPD‐L1+) showed significantly worse outcomes. Microenvironmental PD‐1 and PD‐L1 expression has high correlation at relapse, although none was found at diagnosis.

Conclusion

We determined the clinical impact of microenvironmental PD‐1 expression and its relationship with neoplastic or microenvironmental expression of PD‐L1 in patients with R/R DLBCL. The expression of PD‐1 and PD‐L1 in the TME dramatically changes during the chemotherapy. Therefore, evaluating TME at relapse, not at diagnosis is useful to predict the outcomes of R/R DLBCL patients.
Differences in the perception of the role of instructors among Western and Chinese students in online teaching practices
Authors: Liu Xiaojing , Zhou Chunmiao
Published: October 2023

Background

The global introduction of complex measures directed at the containment of the COVID‐19 spread has spurred a massive shift to distance learning among educational institutions. As far as such a learning mode is rather forced and, probably, only a few establishments faced no difficulties with it, the matter of assuring teaching activities' effectiveness in the practice of e‐learning is relevant.

Objectives

The main purpose of this article was to assess the efficiency of online‐based tools and technologies in the context of distance education and develop a set of recommendations aimed at improving the effectiveness of online teaching.

Methods

The research methodology was based on an empirical approach presupposing an exploratory questionnaire survey addressed to university students. As for the e‐learning platform used, the focus was set on Microsoft Teams.

Results and Conclusions

In general, the conducted investigation unveiled that the perception of the role of the instructor differs among Western and Chinese students in terms of willingness to accept psychological help and the feeling of safety during online lessons. Given this, it is reasonable to pay more attention to the psychological well‐being of international students. The comprehensive analysis of survey outcomes allowed the development of a set of recommendations able to enhance the effectiveness of teaching in online settings. These encompass, for example, giving preference to small student group formations, setting greater emphasis on means increasing students' motivation to learn, involvement of instructors in the development and delivery of video lectures, the introduction of automated student assessment, use of multimedia information, and informing students about possible ways of interaction.
A prospective study of the association of cognitive and motor function with odds of life space constriction in older adults
Authors: Zammit Andrea R. , Yu Lei , Buchman Aron S. , Lange‐Maia Brittney S. , Bennett David A. , Grodstein Francine
Published: October 2023

Background

Many studies indicate that smaller life space is related to worse cognitive and motor function. It is plausible that cognitive and motor function also predict life space constriction, thus long‐term, prospective studies are needed of cognitive and motor function as predictors of life space.

Methods

A total of 1246 participants of the Rush Memory and Aging Project, who reported initial maximal life space and at least one follow‐up assessment were included in this prospective study, with up to 19 years follow‐up. The outcome of interest was the Modified version of the Life Space Questionnaire; which we categorized into large (beyond community), medium (neighborhood/community), and small (home/yard) life space. Participants also had detailed composite measures of global cognition and motor function as predictors and available at the first life space assessment. Life space transitions over one‐year periods were modeled using multistate Markov modeling, including confounders and both predictors simultaneously.

Results

Better cognitive and motor function were broadly associated with lower odds of life space constriction (Cognitive: Large ➔ medium: OR = 0.91, 95% CI 0.83–1.00; Large ➔ small: OR = 0.85, 95% CI 0.74–0.97; Medium ➔ small: OR = 1.01, 95% CI 0.82–1.22. Motor: large ➔ medium: OR = 0.76, 95% CI 0.69–0.83; large ➔ small: OR = 0.58, 95% CI 0.51–0.67; medium ➔ small: OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.57–0.87).

Conclusions

Combined with previous literature that life space predicts function, these results support the notion of complex inter‐relations of cognitive function, motor function, and life space.
Contraception and Abortion Care for People Living With HIV: A Clinical Guide for Reproductive Health Practitioners
Authors: Yang Lanbo , Allen Rebecca H. , Cambou Mary Catherine , Nielsen‐Saines Karin , Brown Benjamin P.
Published: October 2023

People capable of pregnancy are disproportionately affected by HIV. Family planning needs and services are often unmet in this population, and clinical care guidelines regarding contraceptive options and abortion care are not well elucidated. Individuals living with HIV often face unique barriers in accessing contraception and abortion services due to internalized stigma, medically complex care (eg, drug–drug interactions, adverse effects of antiretroviral therapy), and distrust of health care providers. There is also a lack of clarity among reproductive health, primary, and infectious disease care providers on best‐practice contraceptive counseling and contraceptive care for individuals living with HIV, given limited opportunities to enhance expertise in reproductive infectious disease. In this review, we summarize existing and updated evidence and clinical considerations regarding contraceptive counseling and abortion care in this population.
Firm Matching in the Market for Technology: Business Stealing and Business Creation*
Authors: Arqué‐Castells Pere , Spulber Daniel F.
Published: October 2023

We propose an empirical framework for studying the prevalence of business creation and business stealing in technology transfers from the effect of technological overlap and product market overlap. We estimate the model on a new dataset that tracks interactions in the market for technology between publicly held US companies. Product market overlap has a negative effect on matching patterns that is suggestive of business stealing while technological proximity has a positive effect that is consistent with business creation. We assess the relevance of IP rights in deterring undesirable technology adoptions and discuss the suitability of alternative strategies of technology exchange.
Risk of incident chronic kidney disease in metabolically healthy obesity and metabolically unhealthy normal weight: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Iqbal Junaid , Wu Hui‐Xuan , Nawaz Muhammad Asad , Jiang Hong‐Li , Xu Shi‐Na , Huang Bi‐Ling , Li Long , Cai Jun‐Min , Zhou Hou‐De
Published: October 2023

Studies have reported inconsistent results about the risk of incident chronic kidney disease (CKD) in people with metabolically healthy obesity (MHO). We designed this systematic review and meta‐analysis to evaluate the risk of developing CKD in people with MHO and metabolically unhealthy normal weight (MUNW). We used a predefined search strategy to retrieve eligible studies from multiple databases up to June 20, 2022. Random‐effects model meta‐analyses were implied to estimate the overall hazard ratio (HR) of incident CKD in obesity phenotypes. Eight prospective cohort studies, including approximately 5 million participants with a median follow‐up ranging between 3 and 14 years, were included in this meta‐analysis. Compared to the metabolically healthy normal weight (MHNW), the mean differences in cardiometabolic and renal risk factors in MHO, MUNW, and metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUO) were evaluated with overall HR of 1.42, 1.49, and 1.84, respectively. Compared to MHNW, the mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) were significantly lower, and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL), blood pressure, blood glucose, and triglycerides were higher in MHO and MUNW. In conclusion, MHO and MUNW are not benign conditions and pose a higher risk for incident CKD. Obesity, whether in the presence or absence of metabolic health, is a risk factor for CKD.
Adsorption mechanism of dimeric Ga precursors in metalorganic chemical vapor deposition of gallium nitride
Authors: Kim Hankyu , Kim Miso , Kim Bumsang , Shong Bonggeun
Published: October 2023

Gallium nitride (GaN) has attracted significant interest as a next-generation semiconductor material with various potential applications. During metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) of GaN using trimethyl gallium (TMG) and NH3, dimeric precursors are produced by gas-phase reactions such as adduct formation or thermal decomposition. In this work, the surface adsorption reactions of monomeric and dimeric Ga molecules including TMG, [(CH3)2Ga(NH2)]2, and [(CH3)GaNH]2 on the GaN surface are investigated using density functional theory calculations. It is found that [(CH3)2Ga(NH2)]2 is the most predominant form among the various dimeric precursors under typical GaN MOCVD process conditions. Our results indicate that the dimeric [(CH3)GaNH]2 precursor, which is generated through the thermal decomposition of [(CH3)2Ga(NH2)]2, would have higher reactivity on the GaN surface. Our work provides critical insights that can inform the optimization of GaN MOCVD processes, leading to advancements in GaN-based high-performance semiconductors.
Effect of nitrogen pressure on the fabrication of AlCrFeCoNiCu0.5 high entropy nitride thin films via cathodic arc deposition
Authors: Jiang Tenghao , Zhao Hong , Tsoutas Kostadinos , Sun Lixian , Liu Hongwei , Liu Yanping , Xu Fanjun , Zheng Zhong , Bilek Marcela M. , Liu Zongwen
Published: October 2023

In the past two decades, high entropy alloy (HEA) coatings have attracted great attention due to their superior mechanical properties, outstanding corrosion and oxidation resistance, and exceptionally high thermal stability. In comparison to HEA thin films, high entropy nitrides (HENs) exhibit higher mechanical strength and chemical inertness. In this work, AlCrFeCoNiCu0.5 HEA and HEN thin films were fabricated using a filtered cathodic arc. By regulating the deposition pressure from 0.0005 Pa (HEA thin film) to 0.05 Pa, the nitrogen concentration in each thin film was precisely controlled to tune the mechanical properties. Scanning transmission electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy revealed that the nitrogen concentration of the films was up to 21.2 at. % at the pressure of 0.05 Pa. The reduced effect of preferential sputtering increased aluminum concentration from 8.3 ± 1.5 to 12.9 ± 2.2 at. % as pressure increased up to 0.05 Pa. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy further confirmed the formation of AlN and CrN at pressures of 0.01–0.05 Pa. The highest hardness and elastic modulus of the HEN film were 12.4 ± 0.6 and 347.3 ± 17.7 GPa, respectively, which were 84.8% and 131.4% higher than those of the HEA thin film.
Redox-active endosomes mediate α5β1 integrin signaling and promote chondrocyte matrix metalloproteinase production in osteoarthritis
Authors: Miao Michael Z. , Su Qian Peter , Cui Yang , Bahnson Edward M. , Li Gang , Wang Menglin , Yang Yuchen , Collins John A. , Wu Di , Gu Qisheng , Chubinskaya Susan , Diekman Brian O. , Yamada Kenneth M. , Loeser Richard F.
Published: October 2023

Mechanical cues sensed by integrins induce cells to produce proteases to remodel the extracellular matrix. Excessive protease production occurs in many degenerative diseases, including osteoarthritis, in which articular cartilage degradation is associated with the genesis of matrix protein fragments that can activate integrins. We investigated the mechanisms by which integrin signals may promote protease production in response to matrix changes in osteoarthritis. Using a fragment of the matrix protein fibronectin (FN) to activate the α5β1 integrin in primary human chondrocytes, we found that endocytosis of the integrin and FN fragment complex drove the production of the matrix metalloproteinase MMP-13. Activation of α5β1 by the FN fragment, but not by intact FN, was accompanied by reactive oxygen species (ROS) production initially at the cell surface, then in early endosomes. These ROS-producing endosomes (called redoxosomes) contained the integrin-FN fragment complex, the ROS-producing enzyme NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2), and SRC, a redox-regulated kinase that promotes MMP-13 production. In contrast, intact FN was endocytosed and trafficked to recycling endosomes without inducing ROS production. Articular cartilage from patients with osteoarthritis showed increased amounts of SRC and the NOX2 complex component p67
phox
. Furthermore, we observed enhanced localization of SRC and p67
phox
at early endosomes, suggesting that redoxosomes could transmit and sustain integrin signaling in response to matrix damage. This signaling mechanism not only amplifies the production of matrix-degrading proteases but also establishes a self-perpetuating cycle that contributes to the ongoing degradation of cartilage matrix in osteoarthritis.
Microbiota do not restrict rotavirus infection of colon
Authors: Hellysaz Arash , Nordgren Johan , Neijd Magdalena , Martí Magalí , Svensson Lennart , Hagbom Marie
Published: October 2023

Rotavirus is associated with extensive infection of the small intestine, whereas colon is considered to be uninfected. Considering that almost all bacteria in the gut colonize the colon, we hypothesized that the microbiota may act as a physical barrier preventing rotavirus infection in the colon
in vivo
. To address this hypothesis, we used human and mice colonoids, and biopsies of different intestinal segments of untreated and antibiotic-treated adult and infant mice. Rotavirus quantification was performed by qPCR and volumetric 3D imaging of intestinal segments. By 3D imaging, we observed infection in all the small intestinal segments, most extensively in the ileum, with most limited number of infected cells in colon. Broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment yielded no significant change in infection in either ileum or colon of adults and mice pups, although there is a substantial decrease in microbial load. We also show that rotavirus can successfully infect and replicate in colonoids from both mice and humans. Collectively, our data, including novel 3D imaging of the gut, mouse, and human colonoids, conclude that microbiota does not affect rotavirus infection in colon.

IMPORTANCE

Alterations of the gut microbiome can have significant effects on gastrointestinal homeostasis leading to various diseases and symptoms. Increased understanding of rotavirus infection in relation to the microbiota can provide better understanding on how microbiota can be used for clinical prevention as well as treatment strategies. Our volumetric 3D imaging data show that antibiotic treatment and its consequent reduction of the microbial load does not alter the extent of rotavirus infection of enterocytes in the small intestine and that restriction factors other than bacteria limit the infection of colonocytes.
Autophagy gene-dependent intracellular immunity triggered by interferon-γ
Authors: McAllaster Michael R. , Bhushan Jaya , Balce Dale R. , Orvedahl Anthony , Park Arnold , Hwang Seungmin , Sullender Meagan E. , Sibley L. David , Virgin Herbert W.
Published: October 2023

Genes required for the lysosomal degradation pathway of autophagy play key roles in topologically distinct and physiologically important cellular processes. Some functions of
ATG
genes are independent of their role in degradative autophagy. One of the first described of these
ATG
gene-dependent, but degradative autophagy independent, processes is the requirement for a subset of
ATG
genes in interferon-γ (IFNγ)-induced inhibition of norovirus and
Toxoplasma gondii
replication. Herein, we identified additional genes that are required for, or that negatively regulate, this innate immune effector pathway. Enzymes in the UFMylation pathway negatively regulated IFNγ-induced inhibition of norovirus replication via effects of
Ern1
. IFNγ-induced inhibition of norovirus replication required
Gate-16
(also termed
GabarapL2
),
Wipi2b
,
Atg9a
,
Cul3
, and
Klhl9
but not
Becn1
(encoding Beclin 1),
Atg14
,
Uvrag
, or
Sqstm1
. The phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate and ATG16L1-binding domains of WIPI2B, as well as the ATG5-binding domain of ATG16L1, were required for IFNγ-induced inhibition of norovirus replication. Other members of the
Cul3
,
Atg8
, and
Wipi2
gene families were not required, demonstrating exquisite specificity within these gene families for participation in IFNγ action. The generality of some aspects of this mechanism was demonstrated by a role for GATE-16 and WIPI2 in IFNγ-induced control of
Toxoplasma gondii
infection in human cells. These studies further delineate the genes and mechanisms of an
ATG
gene-dependent programmable form of cytokine-induced innate intracellular immunity.

IMPORTANCE

Interferon-γ (IFNγ) is a critical mediator of cell-intrinsic immunity to intracellular pathogens. Understanding the complex cellular mechanisms supporting robust interferon-γ-induced host defenses could aid in developing new therapeutics to treat infections. Here, we examined the impact of autophagy genes in the interferon-γ-induced host response. We demonstrate that genes within the autophagy pathway including
Wipi2
,
Atg9
, and
Gate-16
, as well as ubiquitin ligase complex genes
Cul3
and
Klhl9
are required for IFNγ-induced inhibition of murine norovirus (norovirus hereinafter) replication in mouse cells.
WIPI2
and
GATE-16
were also required for IFNγ-mediated restriction of parasite growth within the
Toxoplasma gondii
parasitophorous vacuole in human cells. Furthermore, we found that perturbation of UFMylation pathway components led to more robust IFNγ-induced inhibition of norovirus via regulation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Enhancing or inhibiting these dynamic cellular components could serve as a strategy to control intracellular pathogens and maintain an effective immune response.
Construction and functional verification of size-reduced plasmids based on TMP resistance gene
dfrB10
Authors: Li Chun-cao , Hu Rui , Hua Xiu-min , Ni Yi-xuan , Ge Lu , Zhang Lu , Yu Wen , Hao Ni-xin , Xia Hui , Fang Qiang , Tao Zhi-yong
Published: October 2023

Antibiotic resistance screening is crucial in the construction of recombinant plasmids. The
dfrB10
gene, a short-size trimethoprim (TMP)-resistance type B dihydrofolate reductase gene, is a promising antibiotic drug screening marker for plasmid construction in molecular genetic research. Currently, available plasmid backbones (without the resistance gene) were amplified using PCR, and then we ligated these products with
dfrB10
gene fragments via homologous recombination to construct new plasmid vectors with TMP resistance. The cloning, expression, and gene editing functions of the new plasmids based on their different purposes were verified. By successfully replacing the original resistance genes of pUC19, pET28a, pcDNA3.1, and pX330 plasmids with
dfrB10
, we constructed a series of plasmids with TMP resistance. The change of the resistance selection marker to TMP did not affect the function of the plasmids compared to the original ones. Furthermore, a short (988 bp) TMP-resistant miniature tool plasmid, pTMi, was constructed based on the pUC19 plasmid. With the use of the
dfrB10
gene as a resistance marker under TMP drug screening, various size-reduced tool plasmids can be routinely constructed. These plasmids have similar functions to the original ones and can be used for research applications in molecular genetics.

IMPORTANCE

Plasmid size is one of the factors affecting transfection efficacy in most of the molecular genetic research studies. One effective approach for reducing plasmid size is to replace relatively large, conventional antibiotic resistance genes with the short-size
dfrB10
gene. The successful construct of a series of
dfrB10-
based tool plasmids and their functional validation, via comparison with original plasmids, suggest that
dfrB10
is a potent drug resistance selection marker. The antibiotic trimethoprim offers convenient usage comparable to that of ampicillin or kanamycin. Additionally, fluorescence analysis has demonstrated the compatibility of TMP with protein expression in various host cells. Based on these findings, TMP-
dfrB10
could be an alternative choice for future use in molecular genetic research studies that require miniature plasmids to achieve optimal results.
Neonatal varicella
Authors: Longbottom Katherine , Lyall Hermione
Published: October 2023

Primary infection with varicella zoster virus (VZV) in the final 3 weeks of pregnancy may cause transplacental infection and neonatal varicella. Infants are most at risk of severe disease if born from 5 days before to 2 days after onset of the maternal varicella rash. Administration of post-exposure prophylaxis with varicella zoster immunoglobulin and treatment of varicella with aciclovir for those at highest risk of progression to severe disease is advised. Universal vaccination against VZV significantly reduces the incidence of neonatal varicella.
Use of healthcare services before diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a population-based matched case-control study
Authors: Prasad Vibhore , Rezel-Potts Emma , White Patrick , Downs Johnny , Boddy Nicholas , Sayal Kapil , Sonuga-Barke Edmund
Published: October 2023

Objective

To compare use of healthcare services and reasons for attendance by children and young people (CYP) with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) versus non-ADHD controls.

Design

Population-based matched case-control study.

Setting

English primary care electronic health records with linked hospital records from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink, 1998–2015.

Participants

8127 CYP with an ADHD diagnosis aged 4–17 years at the time of diagnosis and 40 136 non-ADHD controls matched by age, sex and general practitioner (GP) practice.

Main outcome measures

Medical diagnoses, prescriptions, hospital admissions and hospital procedures in the 2 years before diagnosis (or the index date for controls).

Results

CYP with ADHD attended healthcare services twice as often as controls (rate ratios: GP: 2.0, 95% CI=2.0, 2.1; hospital 1.8, 95% CI=1.8, 1.9). CYP with ADHD attended their GP, received prescriptions and were admitted to hospital for a wide range of reasons. The strongest association for GP attendances, comparing CYP with versus without ADHD, was for ‘mental and behavioural disorders’ (OR=25.2, 95% CI=23.3, 27.2). Common reasons for GP attendance included eye, ear, nose, throat, oral (OR=1.5, 95% CI=1.4, 1.5) and conditions such as asthma (OR=1.3, 95% CI=1.3, 1.4) or eczema (OR=1.2, 95% CI=1.0, 1.3).

Conclusions

Two years before diagnosis, CYP with ADHD attended healthcare services twice as often as CYP without. CYP with ADHD had increased rates of physical conditions, such as asthma and eczema. These contacts may be an opportunity for earlier recognition and diagnosis of ADHD.
Maxillary osteomyelitis in a young female with osteopetrosis: unveiling an uncommon connection
Authors: Chawla Jitendra , Yerragudi Navaneeth , Arumulla Mithilesh , Gunturur Shrikanth
Published: October 2023

Osteopetrosis encompasses a spectrum of conditions marked by heightened bone density due to faulty osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, leading to an accumulation of immature bone and thickened cortical structures. This condition gives rise to bone fragility, blood cell irregularities, nerve entrapment and growth challenges, all stemming from disrupted bone remodelling. Craniofacial distinctiveness, encompassing anomalies in the skull and jaw, is a frequent occurrence. Osteopetrosis presents a range of clinical signs, including facial and dental anomalies. The diagnostic process involves thorough clinical and radiological assessments, often obviating the need for genetic testing. Interestingly, few prior reports have delved into the specifics of craniofacial and dental issues in osteopetrosis. The presented case showcases rare occurrence of maxillary osteomyelitis. The diagnosis was established through a combination of history, clinical, radiographic and laboratory findings. The patient declined surgical intervention, leading to the implementation of conservative management involving regular irrigation alongside systemic antibiotic therapy.