bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient spatio-temporal feature clustering for large event-based datasets
Authors: Oubari Omar , Exarchakis Georgios , Lenz Gregor , Benosman Ryad , Ieng Sio-Hoi
Published: October 2022

Event-based cameras encode changes in a visual scene with high temporal precision and low power consumption, generating millions of events per second in the process. Current event-based processing algorithms do not scale well in terms of runtime and computational resources when applied to a large amount of data. This problem is further exacerbated by the development of high spatial resolution vision sensors. We introduce a fast and computationally efficient clustering algorithm that is particularly designed for dealing with large event-based datasets. The approach is based on the expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm and relies on a stochastic approximation of the E-step over a truncated space to reduce the computational burden and speed up the learning process. We evaluate the quality, complexity, and stability of the clustering algorithm on a variety of large event-based datasets, and then validate our approach with a classification task. The proposed algorithm is significantly faster than standard k-means and reduces computational demands by two to three orders of magnitude while being more stable, interpretable, and close to the state of the art in terms of classification accuracy.
Some topological results of Ricci limit spaces
Authors: Pan Jiayin , Wang Jikang
Published: October 2022

We study the topology of a Ricci limit space

(
X
,
p
)

(X,p)

, which is the Gromov-Hausdorff limit of a sequence of complete

n
n

-manifolds

(

M
i

,

p
i

)

(M_i, p_i)

with

R
i
c

≥
−
(
n
−
1
)

\mathrm {Ric}\ge -(n-1)

. Our first result shows that, if

M
i

M_i

has Ricci bounded covering geometry, i.e. the local Riemannian universal cover is non-collapsed, then

X
X

is semi-locally simply connected. In the process, we establish a slice theorem for isometric pseudo-group actions on a closed ball in the Ricci limit space. In the second result, we give a description of the universal cover of

X
X

if

M
i

M_i

has a uniform diameter bound; this improves a result by Ennis and Wei [Differential Geom. Appl. 24 (2006), pp. 554-562].
Transnational arbitration agreements as contracts: in search of the parties’ common intention
Authors: Bantekas Ilias
Published: October 2022

Although agreements to arbitrate constitute contracts that are distinct from those in which they are contained, the practice of arbitral statutes, international instruments, and arbitral tribunals is to conflate the parties’ common intention to be bound with the particular form required of the arbitral agreement. This sui generis (conflated) contractual nature is unique to arbitral agreements and serves the transnational character of international arbitration. The required form, which is conflated with the parties’ common intention, is meant to serve a procedural, rather than a substantive/contractual purpose, namely the triggering of the jurisdiction of the arbitral tribunal. All this is in sharp contrast with the rigid assessment of offer, acceptance and common intention to be bound that permeates contracts under national laws, all three of which are distinct actions. It further serves as evidence that transnational law does not neatly distinguish between substantive and procedural law, with contracts being an inextricable part of this transnational legal process.
The GR2D2 estimator for the precision matrices
Authors: Gan Dailin , Yin Guosheng , Zhang Yan Dora
Published: October 2022

Biological networks are important for the analysis of human diseases, which summarize the regulatory interactions and other relationships between different molecules. Understanding and constructing networks for molecules, such as DNA, RNA and proteins, can help elucidate the mechanisms of complex biological systems. The Gaussian Graphical Models (GGMs) are popular tools for the estimation of biological networks. Nonetheless, reconstructing GGMs from high-dimensional datasets is still challenging. The current methods cannot handle the sparsity and high-dimensionality issues arising from datasets very well. Here, we developed a new GGM, called the GR2D2 (Graphical $R^2$-induced Dirichlet Decomposition) model, based on the R2D2 priors for linear models. Besides, we provided a data-augmented block Gibbs sampler algorithm. The R code is available at https://github.com/RavenGan/GR2D2. The GR2D2 estimator shows superior performance in estimating the precision matrices compared with the existing techniques in various simulation settings. When the true precision matrix is sparse and of high dimension, the GR2D2 provides the estimates with smallest information divergence from the underlying truth. We also compare the GR2D2 estimator with the graphical horseshoe estimator in five cancer RNA-seq gene expression datasets grouped by three cancer types. Our results show that GR2D2 successfully identifies common cancer pathways and cancer-specific pathways for each dataset.
Molecular insights to the sperm–cervix interaction and the consequences for cryopreserved sperm
Authors: Warr Sophie , Pini Taylor , de Graaf Simon P , Rickard Jessica P
Published: October 2022

Cryopreserved ram spermatozoa are limited in their capacity to traverse the ovine cervix and achieve fertilization. This altered interaction may be related to modified molecular communication between frozen-thawed ram spermatozoa, seminal plasma, and the female tract. As such, this review aims to identify the biological processes which underpin sperm maturation and transport throughout the female reproductive tract to elucidate factors which may alter this natural process in cryopreserved ram spermatozoa. We also assess critical barriers to ram spermatozoa specific to the ovine cervix and the role of seminal plasma in mitigating these barriers. Transcriptomics is explored as a new approach to understand the sperm–cervix interaction. Recent studies have demonstrated that both spermatozoa and seminal plasma contain a complex profile of coding and non-coding RNAs. These molecular species have clear links with functional fertility, and mounting evidence suggests they may be altered by cryopreservation. Emerging in vitro cell culture models are also investigated as a “next step” in studying this interaction, utilizing transcriptomics to identify subtle changes in female tract gene expression in response to spermatozoa. The application of such models is proposed as an exciting opportunity to investigate the unique challenges faced by cryopreserved spermatozoa traversing the ovine cervix prior to fertilization.
Genetic and environmental factors influencing neonatal resting-state functional connectivity
Authors: Blanchett Reid , Chen Yuanyuan , Aguate Fernando , Xia Kai , Cornea Emil , Burt S Alexandra , de Los Campos Gustavo , Gao Wei , Gilmore John H , Knickmeyer Rebecca C
Published: October 2022

Functional magnetic resonance imaging has been used to identify complex brain networks by examining the correlation of blood-oxygen-level-dependent signals between brain regions during the resting state. Many of the brain networks identified in adults are detectable at birth, but genetic and environmental influences governing connectivity within and between these networks in early infancy have yet to be explored. We investigated genetic influences on neonatal resting-state connectivity phenotypes by generating intraclass correlations and performing mixed effects modeling to estimate narrow-sense heritability on measures of within network and between-network connectivity in a large cohort of neonate twins. We also used backwards elimination regression and mixed linear modeling to identify specific demographic and medical history variables influencing within and between network connectivity in a large cohort of typically developing twins and singletons. Of the 36 connectivity phenotypes examined, only 6 showed narrow-sense heritability estimates greater than 0.10, with none being statistically significant. Demographic and obstetric history variables contributed to between- and within-network connectivity. Our results suggest that in early infancy, genetic factors minimally influence brain connectivity. However, specific demographic and medical history variables, such as gestational age at birth and maternal psychiatric history, may influence resting-state connectivity measures.
Sustained upregulation of widespread hippocampal–neocortical coupling following memory encoding
Authors: Folvik Line , Sneve Markus H , Ness Hedda T , Vidal-Piñeiro Didac , Raud Liisa , Geier Oliver M , Walhovd Kristine B , Fjell Anders M
Published: October 2022

Systems consolidation of new experiences into lasting episodic memories involves hippocampal–neocortical interactions. Evidence of this process is already observed during early post-encoding rest periods, both as increased hippocampal coupling with task-relevant perceptual regions and reactivation of stimulus-specific patterns following intensive encoding tasks. We investigate the spatial and temporal characteristics of these hippocampally anchored post-encoding neocortical modulations. Eighty-nine adults participated in an experiment consisting of interleaved memory task- and resting-state periods. We observed increased post-encoding functional connectivity between hippocampus and individually localized neocortical regions responsive to stimuli encountered during memory encoding. Post-encoding modulations were manifested as a nearly system-wide upregulation in hippocampal coupling with all major functional networks. The configuration of these extensive modulations resembled hippocampal–neocortical interaction patterns estimated from active encoding operations, suggesting hippocampal post-encoding involvement exceeds perceptual aspects. Reinstatement of encoding patterns was not observed in resting-state scans collected 12 h later, nor when using other candidate seed regions. The similarity in hippocampal functional coupling between online memory encoding and offline post-encoding rest suggests reactivation in humans involves a spectrum of cognitive processes engaged during the experience of an event. There were no age effects, suggesting that upregulation of hippocampal–neocortical connectivity represents a general phenomenon seen across the adult lifespan.
Age-related reorganization of functional network architecture in semantic cognition
Authors: Martin Sandra , Williams Kathleen A , Saur Dorothee , Hartwigsen Gesa
Published: October 2022

Cognitive aging is associated with widespread neural reorganization processes in the human brain. However, the behavioral impact of such reorganization is not well understood. The current neuroimaging study investigated age differences in the functional network architecture during semantic word retrieval in young and older adults. Combining task-based functional connectivity, graph theory and cognitive measures of fluid and crystallized intelligence, our findings show age-accompanied large-scale network reorganization even when older adults have intact word retrieval abilities. In particular, functional networks of older adults were characterized by reduced decoupling between systems, reduced segregation and efficiency, and a larger number of hub regions relative to young adults. Exploring the predictive utility of these age-related changes in network topology revealed high, albeit less efficient, performance for older adults whose brain graphs showed stronger dedifferentiation and reduced distinctiveness. Our results extend theoretical accounts on neurocognitive aging by revealing the compensational potential of the commonly reported pattern of network dedifferentiation when older adults can rely on their prior knowledge for successful task processing. However, we also demonstrate the limitations of such compensatory reorganization and show that a youth-like network architecture in terms of balanced integration and segregation is associated with more economical processing.
Fear of negative evaluation modulates the processing of social evaluative feedback with different valence and contexts
Authors: Zhang Yinling , Li Yanju , Mai Xiaoqin
Published: October 2022

Fear of negative evaluation (FNE) is a susceptible and maintaining factor of social anxiety disorders. However, the question, how people process negative evaluation is influenced by individual differences in FNE, is poorly understood. To clarify the habitual processing characteristics of individuals with different levels of FNE, electroencephalography was recorded when two groups of participants with high FNE (hFNE) and low FNE (lFNE) performed a social evaluation perception task in which the feedback context/source (human vs. a computer) and valence (thumb-up/like vs. thumb-down/dislike) were manipulated. We found effects of feedback source and valence on N1, P2, and P3, which reflect early attention, integrated perception, and elaborative processing, respectively, as well as general reward effects on reward positivity (RewP) across contexts. Importantly, compared to the lFNE group, the hFNE group showed larger midfrontal N1 and theta oscillation in response to negative feedback indicating dislike (vs. like), and also showed larger P3. These findings suggest that individuals with hFNE are more attentional vigilance to negative (vs. positive) social feedback, implying that individuals with different levels of FNE assign different implicit threat values to social-evaluation threat stimuli.
Characterizing the Rise of Disseminated Gonococcal Infections in California, July 2020–July 2021
Authors: Tang Eric C , Johnson Kelly A , Alvarado Lizzete , Burghardt Nicole O , Hernandez Cindy , Lopez Edwin , Jenkins-Barnes Tazima , Hughes Bryan , Salas Krysta L , Jacobson Kathleen R
Published: October 2022

Background

California has experienced an increase in reported cases of disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI). Given significant morbidity associated with DGI and the ability of Neisseria gonorrhoeae to rapidly develop antibiotic resistance, characterization of these cases can inform diagnosis, management, and prevention of DGI.

Methods

As part of the public health response to increased reports of DGI, we used gonorrhea surveillance data reported to the California Department of Public Health to identify all DGI cases in a geographically-bound region. Standardized case report forms were used to collect epidemiologic risk factors and clinical information obtained from provider/laboratory reports, medical records, and patient interviews.

Results

From 1 July 2020 to 31 July 2021, we identified 149 DGI patients among 63 338 total gonorrhea infections, representing 0.24% of gonorrhea cases. Estimated incidence was 0.47 DGI cases per 100 000 person-years. Mean age of DGI patients was 40 years, and 75 (50%) were cisgender men, of whom only 13 were known to have male partners. Where reported, more than one-third (36%) used methamphetamine and nearly one-quarter (23%) experienced homelessness. Clinically, 61% lacked urogenital, pharyngeal, or rectal symptoms; 2 patients died in the hospital. Among 47 isolates from patients with antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) results available, all were susceptible to ceftriaxone and cefixime.

Conclusions

Most DGI patients lacked urogenital symptoms and were not among populations for which routine gonorrhea screening is currently recommended. Expanding gonorrhea screening might prevent DGI. Cefixime is likely the best option if transitioning from parenteral to oral therapy when AST results are unavailable.
Impact of Respiratory Infection and Chronic Comorbidities on Early Pediatric Antibiotic Dispensing in the United States
Authors: Kissler Stephen M , Wang Bill , Mehrotra Ateev , Barnett Michael , Grad Yonatan H
Published: October 2022

Background

In the United States, children aged <5 years receive high volumes of antibiotics, which may contribute to antibiotic resistance. It has been unclear what role preventable illnesses and chronic comorbidities play in prompting antibiotic prescriptions.

Methods

We conducted an observational study with a cohort of 124 759 children aged <5 years born in the United States between 2008 and 2013 with private medical insurance. Study outcomes included the cumulative number of antibiotic courses dispensed per child by age 5 and the proportion of children for whom at least 1 antibiotic course was dispensed by age 5. We identified which chronic medical conditions predicted whether a child would be among the top 20% of antibiotic recipients.

Results

Children received a mean of 6.8 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.7–6.9) antibiotic courses by age 5, and 91% (95% CI: 90%–92%) of children had received at least 1 antibiotic course by age 5. Most antibiotic courses (71%; 95% CI: 70%–72%) were associated with respiratory infections. Presence of a pulmonary/respiratory, otologic, and/or immunological comorbidity substantially increase a child's odds of being in the top 20% of antibiotic recipients. Children with at least 1 of these conditions received a mean of 10.5 (95% CI: 10.4–10.6) antibiotic courses by age 5.

Conclusions

Privately insured children in the United States receive many antibiotics early in life, largely due to respiratory infections. Antibiotic dispensing varies widely among children, with more antibiotics dispensed to children with pulmonary/respiratory, otologic, and/or immunological comorbidities.
China’s Multi-Front Institutional Strategies in International Development Finance
Authors: Wang Jue , Sampson Michael
Published: October 2022

China has expressed its dissatisfaction with aspects of the international development finance regime for many years, related to issues such as its lack of voting power and an insufficient focus on infrastructure spending by traditional multilateral development banks. To address these dissatisfactions, China has utilised a range of approaches, from the application of pressure inside existing institutions, to building outside pressure in the form of using alternative institutions or creating new ones. But how has the combination and timing of these different measures impacted its success in ultimately securing reforms? Applying insights from the institutional choice literature, we find that China has pursued both inside and outside measures to try to secure its objectives in development finance with varying degrees of success. Simply combining these measures has been insufficient to secure success however. In cases where China has exerted internal leverage prior to utilising outside options, it has been the most successful. We conclude that combination and sequencing of these approaches is an under-appreciated factor in determining success of dissatisfied states in securing changes to institutions.
Potential Solutions for the Mitigation of Hip Injuries Caused by Falls in Older Adults: A Narrative Review
Authors: Tarbert Rebecca J , Zhou Junhong , Manor Brad
Published: October 2022

Background

Hip injuries caused by falling are common and often catastrophic for older adults. There is thus an urgent need to develop solutions designed to mitigate fall injuries to the hip by reducing the forces created on the body by ground impact.

Methods

The goal of this narrative review was to synthesize published literature on available products developed with the expressed goal of reducing fall-related hip injuries.

Results

Three categories were identified: passive wearables (eg, hip protectors), active wearables (eg, instrumented belts with deployable airbags), and compliant flooring. Laboratory studies indicate that each technology can reduce peak forces induced by simulated falls. Considerable preliminary data suggest that passive wearables and compliant flooring may reduce fall-related injuries within long-term care facilities. Controlled trials of specific types of these 2 technologies, however, have produced inconsistent results. While little is known about the effectiveness of active wearables, promising early data indicate the feasibility of an instrumented belt worn around the waist to effectively deploy an airbag to protect the hips prior to ground impact. Important challenges associated with one or more identified technologies included poor adherence to instructed wear as well as the potential for significant physical or time burden to caregivers or health care professionals.

Conclusions

Passive wearables, active wearables, and compliant flooring have shown promise in reducing fall-related hip injuries in older adults. Still, each type of product is accompanied by limited real-world data and/or significant challenges that must be overcome to maximize effectiveness and minimize unintended side effects.
New archaeomagnetic directions from Late Neolithic sites in Shandong province, China
Authors: Wang Qingzhu , Gong Zheng , Victor Stephen K , Corolla Michael , Underhill Anne P , McIntosh Roderick J , Fang Hui , Ding Jikai , Zhao Yichao , Chen Xuexiang , Song Yanbo
Published: October 2022

Archaeomagnetism provides important constraints to help us understand the past behaviour of the geomagnetic field. For archaeologists, archaeomagnetic dating has become a potential supplement to traditional dating methods (e.g. radiocarbon dating). Although China has a long history with numerous archaeological discoveries, the collection of archaeomagnetic data remains scarce. In this paper, we provide new archaeomagnetic directions from four late Neolithic (c. 2000 BC) sites in Shandong province, China. After a careful characterization of magnetic mineralogy and a detailed alternating-field demagnetization of the oriented samples, a total of nine archaeomagnetic directions (each with both declinations and inclinations) were obtained, which fill the large gap at c. 2000 BC in the Chinese palaeomagnetic secular variation (PSV) curve. Combining these new results with previously published data, we updated the Chinese PSV curve for the last 7 kyr. We have compared the updated curve with several global geomagnetic models (e.g. pfm9k.1a, ARCH10k.1, CALS10k.1b). Comparisons show that the CALS10k.1b model does not yield a reasonable fit of the data, and the fit becomes worse for older intervals. This poor fit could be explained by the fact that the CALS10k.1b model consists of a large amount of sedimentary data. Therefore, the PSV pattern is difficult to determine due to the strong aliasing effect. On the contrary, the ARCH10k.1 model gives a much better fit than other models because its data are mostly from archaeological materials and the data are mainly from the Northern Hemisphere. The field intensity and PSV are potentially correlated, with a weak field corresponding to an enhanced PSV. However, due to the lack of data for certain time intervals, the proposed correlations need to be further tested. To explore if PSV exhibits longitudinal symmetric or latitudinal antisymmetric patterns like those of the geocentric-axial-dipole (GAD) model, we compiled and compared data from three East Asia countries (China, Korea and Japan) and from four areas (East Asia, North America, Europe and the Middle East, and Australia and New Zealand) of which the latitudes are between 30° and 40°. In the East Asia region, the PSV patterns shown in each data set are consistent because of the geographic proximity of these three countries. However, when comparing the PSV curves from the four global areas, we suggest a potential declinational minimum between 0 AD and 2000 AD. Although further confirmation and investigation are needed, this declination minimum could be diachronous, sweeping from East Asia to Australia and New Zealand, and then North America. Future studies should focus on adding more reliable and precisely dated data to better delineate the PSV trends. Archaeomagnetic dating is promising when a PSV curve can be continuously reconstructed.
Gravity and magnetic fast inversion method with cross-gradient based on function fitting
Authors: Li Zongrui , Ma Guoqing , Meng Qingfa , Wang Taihan , Li Lili
Published: October 2022

The underground density and magnetic susceptibility structure obtained by cross-gradient inversion of gravity and magnetic data can provide an important basis for the evaluation of mineral resource potential. The inversion is realized by discretizing the subsurface into a series of cells and calculating the physical properties of each cell. This restricts the application in the inversion of large-area data because of the large memory usage and low computational efficiency owing to the large solution matrix. We proposed a high-efficiency cross-gradient inversion method of gravity and magnetic data based on function fitting, which uses a parametrized function to fit the physical properties of the central points of a number of cells in certain space based on the assumption that the physical property in each cell is uniform in the inversion. Therefore, the calculation of physical properties is replaced by the calculation of function coefficients. The number of cells that can be fitted by a function is more than the number of function coefficients. Thus, the new method requires less memory and can improve computational efficiency. In addition, with the function fitting method, the gradient terms can be directly obtained by the function coefficients instead of using the traditional central difference or multipoint fitting method, which could further improve the computational efficiency. The effectiveness and high computational efficiency of the proposed method were verified by model tests, and the accuracy of the inversion results was not lower than that of the traditional inversion method. We also proved that the proposed method is suitable for uniform hexahedral and unstructured tetrahedral cells. The real application area is located in eastern China and contains skarn-type magnetite deposits, which are characterized by high density and high magnetic susceptibility. The proposed method was used to obtain subsurface high-resolution density and magnetic susceptibility structures. We obtained the distribution range of mineral resources based on the ratio of density to magnetic susceptibility, which provides an important basis for further exploration. The model tests and real data applications show that the proposed method is more suitable for large-scale precise inversion and has better practicability.
The identification of the Rosa S-locus provides new insights into the breeding and wild origins of continuous-flowering roses
Authors: Kawamura Koji , Ueda Yoshihiro , Matsumoto Shogo , Horibe Takanori , Otagaki Shungo , Wang Li , Wang Guoliang , Hibrand-Saint Oyant Laurence , Foucher Fabrice , Linde Marcus , Debener Thomas
Published: October 2022

This study aims to: (i) identify the Rosa S-locus controlling self-incompatibility (SI); (ii) test the genetic linkage of the S-locus with other loci controlling important ornamental traits, such as the continuous-flowering (CF) characteristic; (iii) identify the S-alleles (SC) of old Chinese CF cultivars (e.g, Old Blush, Slater’s Crimson China) and examine the changes in the frequency of cultivars with Sc through the history of breeding; (iv) identify wild species carrying the Sc-alleles to infer wild origins of CF cultivars. We identified a new S-RNase (SC2) of Rosa chinensis in a contig from a genome database that has not been integrated into one of the seven chromosomes yet. Genetic mapping indicated that SC2 is allelic to the previously-identified S-RNase (SC1) in chromosome 3. Pollination experiments with half-compatible pairs of roses confirmed that they are the pistil-determinant of SI. The segregation analysis of an F1-population indicated genetic linkage between the S-locus and the floral repressor gene KSN. The non-functional allele ksn is responsible for the CF characteristic. A total of five S-alleles (SC1–5) were identified from old CF cultivars. The frequency of cultivars with SC dramatically increased after the introgression of ksn from Chinese to European cultivars and remains high (80%) in modern cultivars, suggesting that S-genotyping is helpful for effective breeding. Wild individuals carrying SC were found in Rosa multiflora (SC1), Rosa chinensis var. spontanea (SC3), and Rosa gigantea (SC2, SC4), supporting the hypothesis of hybrid origins of CF cultivars and providing a new evidence for the involvement of Rosa multiflora.
Investigating a possible causal relationship between maternal serum urate concentrations and offspring birthweight: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Decina Caitlin S , Hopkins Rhian , Bowden Jack , Shields Beverly M , Lawlor Deborah A , Warrington Nicole M , Evans David M , Freathy Rachel M , Beaumont Robin N
Published: October 2022

Background

Higher urate levels are associated with higher systolic blood pressure (SBP) in adults, and in pregnancy with lower offspring birthweight. Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses suggest a causal effect of higher urate on higher SBP and of higher maternal SBP on lower offspring birthweight. If urate causally reduces birthweight, it might confound the effect of SBP on birthweight. We therefore tested for a causal effect of maternal urate on offspring birthweight.

Methods

We tested the association between maternal urate levels and offspring birthweight using multivariable linear regression in the Exeter Family Study of Childhood Health (EFSOCH; n = 872) and UK Biobank (UKB; n = 133 187). We conducted two-sample MR to test for a causal effect of maternal urate [114 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs); n = 288 649 European ancestry] on offspring birthweight (n = 406 063 European ancestry; maternal SNP effect estimates adjusted for fetal effects). We assessed a causal relationship between urate and SBP using one-sample MR in UKB women (n = 199 768).

Results

Higher maternal urate was associated with lower offspring birthweight with similar confounder-adjusted magnitudes in EFSOCH [22 g lower birthweight per 1-SD higher urate (95% CI: –50, 6); P = 0.13] and UKB [–28 g (95% CI: –31, –25); P = 1.8 × 10–75]. The MR causal effect estimate was directionally consistent, but smaller [–11 g (95% CI: –25, 3); PIVW = 0.11]. In women, higher urate was causally associated with higher SBP [1.7 mmHg higher SBP per 1-SD higher urate (95% CI: 1.4, 2.1); P = 7.8 × 10–22], consistent with that previously published in women and men.

Conclusion

The marked attenuation of the MR result of maternal urate on offspring birthweight compared with the multivariable regression result suggests previous observational associations may be confounded. The 95% CIs of the MR result included the null but suggest a possible small effect on birthweight. Maternal urate levels are unlikely to be an important contributor to offspring birthweight.
Predictors of Electroconvulsive Therapy Outcome in Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Su Liang , Zhang Yi , Jia Yuping , Sun Junfeng , Mellor David , Yuan Ti-Fei , Xu Yifeng
Published: October 2022

Background

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is an effective therapy for major depressive disorder (MDD) patients. However, few clinical predictors are available to predict the treatment outcome. This study aimed to characterize the response trajectories of MDD patients undergoing ECT treatment and to identify potential clinical and demographic predictors for clinical improvement.

Methods

We performed a secondary analysis on data from a multicenter, randomized, blinded, controlled trial with 3 ECT modalities (bifrontal, bitemporal, unilateral). The sample consisted of 239 patients whose demographic and clinical characteristics were investigated as predictors of ECT outcomes.

Results

The results of growth mixture modeling suggested there were 3 groups of MDD patients: a non-remit group (n = 17, 7.11%), a slow-response group (n = 182, 76.15%), and a rapid-response group (n = 40, 16.74%). Significant differences in age, education years, treatment protocol, types of medication used, Hamilton Depression Scale, Hamilton Anxiety Scale score, Mini-Mental State Examination score, and Clinical Global Impression score at baseline were observed across the groups.

Conclusions

MDD patients exhibited distinct and clinically relevant response trajectories to ECT. The MDD patients with more severe depression at baseline are associated with a rapid response trajectory. In contrast, MDD patients with severe symptoms and older age are related to a less response trajectory. These clinical predictors may help guide treatment selection.
A draft reference genome of the red abalone, Haliotis rufescens, for conservation genomics
Authors: Griffiths Joanna S , Sahasrabudhe Ruta M , Marimuthu Mohan P A , Chumchim Noravit , Nguyen Oanh H , Beraut Eric , Escalona Merly , Whitehead Andrew
Published: October 2022

Red abalone, Haliotis rufescens, are herbivorous marine gastropods that primarily feed on kelp. They are the largest and longest-lived of abalone species with a range distribution in North America from central Oregon, United States, to Baja California, MEX. Recently, red abalone have been in decline as a consequence of overharvesting, disease, and climate change, resulting in the closure of the commercial fishery in the 1990s and the recreational fishery in 2018. Protecting this ecologically and economically important species requires an understanding of their current population dynamics and connectivity. Here, we present a new red abalone reference genome as part of the California Conservation Genomics Project (CCGP). Following the CCGP genome strategy, we used Pacific Biosciences HiFi long reads and Dovetail Omni-C data to generate a scaffold-level assembly. The assembly comprises 616 scaffolds for a total size of 1.3 Gb, a scaffold N50 of 45.7 Mb, and a BUSCO complete score of 97.3%. This genome represents a significant improvement over a previous assembly and will serve as a powerful tool for investigating seascape genomic diversity, local adaptation to temperature and ocean acidification, and informing management strategies.
Does reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with allograft-prosthesis composite (APC) have surgical benefits over hemiarthroplasty with APC in patients with tumors of the proximal humerus?
Authors: Han Jian , Kim Wan Lim , Kim Yongsung , Cho Hwan Seong , Oh Joo Han
Published: October 2022

Background

The research on surgical outcomes of hemiarthroplasty and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty using allograft-prosthesis composites for the proximal humeral oncologic condition is still scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to compare surgical outcomes of shoulder joint reconstruction with hemiarthroplasty and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty using allograft-prosthesis composites for tumors of the proximal humerus.

Methods

Eleven patients underwent hemiarthroplasty or reverse total shoulder arthroplasty using allograft-prosthesis composites for tumors of the proximal humerus between July 2011 and April 2018 were reviewed. Radiographic analysis for bone union of allograft-host bone junction, implant loosening, stress shielding and shoulder dislocation or subluxation was performed. Functional outcomes were evaluated using visual analog scales for pain, range of motion, Simple Shoulder Test score and Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score. Furthermore, oncologic outcome and complications were also assessed, respectively.

Results

There were five patients with hemiarthroplasty (mean age, 23.2 years) and six patients with reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (mean age, 46.8 years, P = 0.05). Radiographically, there were no events associated with implant loosening, stress shielding and shoulder dislocation or subluxation in the two groups. There were no differences in functional outcomes between the two groups. There was no local recurrence in entire cohort. In the hemiarthroplasty group, one patient was required revision surgery to reverse total shoulder arthroplasty at postoperative 6 years due to rotator cuff dysfunction. In the reverse total shoulder arthroplasty group, one patient showed the fracture occurred at allograft-host bone junction at postoperative 6 months.

Conclusions

Surgical outcomes of hemiarthroplasty with allograft-prosthesis composites were not inferior to reverse total shoulder arthroplasty when applied in properly selected patients. The authors recommended that hemiarthroplasty with allograft-prosthesis composites could be used for young age patients without glenoid metastasis involvement, and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty with allograft-prosthesis composites could be used for patients with old age or metastatic bone tumors.
Molecular phylogenetic and taxonomic status of the large-eared desert shrew Notiosorex evotis (Eulipotyphla: Soricidae)
Authors: Camargo Issac , Álvarez-Castañeda Sergio Ticul , Polly P David , Stuhler John D , Maldonado Jesús E
Published: October 2022

Notiosorex is the only genus of shrews in North America with particular adaptations for arid habitats such as deserts. Five species currently are recognized in the genus, one of which, Notiosorex evotis, lives in deciduous rain forest from northern Sinaloa to the state of Jalisco in México. Notiosorex evotis originally was described as a subspecies of N. crawfordi; however, it was recently proposed as a valid species based on a discriminant function analysis of craniodental characters. Morphological differentiation between N. evotis populations and sympatric occurrences with N. crawfordi in northern Sinaloa have been recognized. Here, we used a phylogenetic analysis of a mitochondrial gene (Cytb; 1,140 bp) and the nuclear beta fibrinogen intron 7 (β-fib I7; 385 bp), as well as cranial geometric morphometrics, to assess the taxonomic status of N. evotis. We found sequences of N. evotis forming two main subclades: one that includes the populations of the state of Sinaloa, the other including populations of Nayarit and Jalisco. The boundaries between the two groups seem to be related to the ecotonal cline between the Pacific Lowlands province and the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt province, which acts as a geographical barrier. The discriminant function analysis revealed clear differences in skull shape between the three species of Notiosorex to the northwest of its distribution. Considering these multiple lines of evidence from our data set, we confirm that N. evotis is a monotypic species. Our results suggest that geometric morphometrics can be used successfully to identify sibling species by shape, especially in groups where determination by craniodental measurements is not possible.
Emotional Well-Being of Pediatric Brain Tumor Survivors and Comparison Peers: Perspectives From Children and Their Parents
Authors: Brown Kara L , Fairclough Diane , Noll Robert B , Barrera Maru , Kupst Mary Jo , Gartstein Maria A , Egan Anna M , Bates Carolyn R , Gerhardt Cynthia A , Vannatta Kathryn
Published: October 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the emotional well-being of pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTS) from the perspective of children’s self-reports and parents’ reports relative to matched comparison peers (COMP) and their parents. It was hypothesized that PBTS would self-report more depression symptoms, loneliness, and lower self-concept than COMP. We also hypothesized that mothers and fathers of PBTS would report more internalizing symptoms and lower total competence for their children. Age and sex effects were examined in exploratory analyses.

Methods

Families of 187 PBTS and 186 COMP participated across 5 sites. Eligible children in the PBTS group were 8–15 years of age and 1–5 years post-treatment for a primary intracranial tumor without progressive disease. COMP were classmates matched for sex, race, and age.

Results

PBTS self-reported lower scholastic, athletic, and social competence, but not more depression, loneliness, or lower global self-worth than COMP. Parents of PBTS reported more internalizing symptoms and lower total competence than parents of COMP. With few exceptions, group differences did not vary as a function of child age and sex.

Conclusion

PBTS reported diminished self-concept in scholastic, athletic, and social domains, while their parents reported broader challenges with internalizing symptoms and total competence. Discrepancies between self-report and parent report require further study to inform targeted interventions for PBTS. Screening survivors for emotional challenges in follow-up clinic or in school setting may help with the allocation of psychosocial support and services for PBTS and their families.
The transcriptional co-regulators NBCL1 and NBCL2 redundantly coordinate aerial organ development and root nodule identity in legumes
Authors: Liu Shengbin , Magne Kévin , Zhou Jing , Laude Juliette , Dalmais Marion , Le Signor Christine , Bendahmane Abdelhafid , Thompson Richard , Couzigou Jean-Malo , Ratet Pascal
Published: October 2022

Medicago truncatula NODULE ROOT1 (MtNOOT1) and Pisum sativum COCHLEATA1 (PsCOCH1) are orthologous genes belonging to the NOOT-BOP-COCH-LIKE (NBCL) gene family which encodes key transcriptional co-regulators of plant development. In Mtnoot1 and Pscoch1 mutants, the development of stipules, flowers, and symbiotic nodules is altered. MtNOOT2 and PsCOCH2 represent the single paralogues of MtNOOT1 and PsCOCH1, respectively. In M. truncatula, MtNOOT1 and MtNOOT2 are both required for the establishment and maintenance of symbiotic nodule identity. In legumes, the role of NBCL2 in above-ground development is not known. To better understand the roles of NBCL genes in legumes, we used M. truncatula and P. sativum nbcl mutants, isolated a knockout mutant for the PsCOCH2 locus and generated Pscoch1coch2 double mutants in P. sativum. Our work shows that single Mtnoot2 and Pscoch2 mutants develop wild-type stipules, flowers, and symbiotic nodules. However, the number of flowers was increased and the pods and seeds were smaller compared to the wild type. Furthermore, in comparison to the corresponding nbcl1 single mutants, both the M. truncatula and P. sativum nbcl double mutants show a drastic alteration in stipule, inflorescence, flower, and nodule development. Remarkably, in both M. truncatula and P. sativum nbcl double mutants, stipules are transformed into a range of aberrant leaf-like structures.
‘Homeless in their own home’: the case of home-deprived single mothers
Authors: Benyamin Shlomit
Published: October 2022

Institutional statistics and academic research in Israel tend to present a partial description of the gender characteristics of the problem of Israeli homelessness. They often focus on the manifest aspect of the phenomenon, which essentially characterizes homelessness as men living on the streets. By doing so, they ignore its hidden aspect, especially its feminine characteristics. Based on 10 interviews that I conducted with Jewish and Arab women, who are home-deprived single mothers, the article reveals how these women, who have some kind of roof over their heads, have living arrangements that are characterized by a lack of stability and security. The women engage in a number of strategies, which include, for example: living with family and friends, constantly moving from one apartment to another, refusing to evacuate, and squatting in empty apartments, which make them invisible homeless, hidden from the public eye. The analysis of the women's coping strategies reveals that the women are not passive objects of the hegemonic discourse, but rather active members of society. The women engage in resistance and redefine the boundaries of the social problem of homelessness, in order to meet their parental obligations and ensure that their children will have a roof over their heads.

Keywords: hidden homelessness; women; feminism; social problem, resistance, Israel
Thermal desorption of H2O ice: from nanoscale films to the bulk
Authors: Rosu-Finsen Alexander , Chikani Bharvi , Salzmann Christoph G
Published: October 2022

The desorption properties of H2O films are investigated across a wide range of film thicknesses from 53 nanometres (nm) to 101 micrometres (μm) using a quartz-crystal microbalance (QCM) and temperature-programmed desorption. Three desorption stages are observed belonging to amorphous solid water (ASW), stacking disordered ice I (ice Isd), and hexagonal ice I (ice Ih). The desorption of ASW is only detectable for the ≥10 μm films and is separated from the ice I desorption by 10–15 K with an associated desorption energy of ∼64 kJ mol−1. The desorption energy of the 53-nm film was found to be near 50 kJ mol−1 as also noted in the literature, but with increasing film thickness, the desorption energy of ice I rises, reaching a plateau around 65–70 kJ mol−1. The reason for the increased desorption energy is suggested to be due to molecules unable to desorb due to the thick covering layer of H2O and possibly re-adsorption events. Before complete desorption of ice I at around 220 K for the 101 μm film, a two-stage ice I desorption is observed with the QCM for the ≥10 μm films near 200 K. This event corresponds to the desorption of ice Isd as corroborated by X-ray diffraction patterns collected upon heating from 92 to 260 K at ambient pressure. Cubic ice is not observed as is commonly stated in the literature as resulting from the crystallization of ASW. Therefore, ice Isd is the correct terminology for the initial crystallization product of ASW.
The impact of resistive electric fields on particle acceleration in reconnection layers
Authors: Puzzoni E , Mignone A , Bodo G
Published: October 2022

In the context of particle acceleration in high-energy astrophysical environments featuring magnetic reconnection, the importance of the resistive term of the electric field compared to the convective one is still under debate. In this work, we present a quantitative analysis through 2D magnetohydrodynamic numerical simulations of tearing-unstable current sheets coupled to a test-particles approach, performed with the pluto code. We find that the resistive field plays a significant role in the early-stage energization of high-energy particles. Indeed, these particles are first accelerated due to the resistive electric field when they cross an X-point, created during the fragmentation of the current sheet. If this preliminary particle acceleration mechanism dominated by the resistive field is neglected, particles cannot reach the same high energies. Our results support therefore the conclusion that the resistive field is not only non-negligible but it does actually play an important role in the particle acceleration mechanism.
The TRIPLE PHD FINGERS proteins are required for SWI/SNF complex-mediated +1 nucleosome positioning and transcription start site determination in Arabidopsis
Authors: Diego-Martin Borja , Pérez-Alemany Jaime , Candela-Ferre Joan , Corbalán-Acedo Antonio , Pereyra Juan , Alabadí David , Jami-Alahmadi Yasaman , Wohlschlegel James , Gallego-Bartolomé Javier
Published: October 2022

Eukaryotes have evolved multiple ATP-dependent chromatin remodelers to shape the nucleosome landscape. We recently uncovered an evolutionarily conserved SWItch/Sucrose Non-Fermentable (SWI/SNF) chromatin remodeler complex in plants reminiscent of the mammalian BAF subclass, which specifically incorporates the MINUSCULE (MINU) catalytic subunits and the TRIPLE PHD FINGERS (TPF) signature subunits. Here we report experimental evidence that establishes the functional relevance of TPF proteins for the complex activity. Our results show that depletion of TPF triggers similar pleiotropic phenotypes and molecular defects to those found in minu mutants. Moreover, we report the genomic location of MINU2 and TPF proteins as representative members of this SWI/SNF complex and their impact on nucleosome positioning and transcription. These analyses unravel the binding of the complex to thousands of genes where it modulates the position of the +1 nucleosome. These targets tend to produce 5′-shifted transcripts in the tpf and minu mutants pointing to the participation of the complex in alternative transcription start site usage. Interestingly, there is a remarkable correlation between +1 nucleosome shift and 5′ transcript length change suggesting their functional connection. In summary, this study unravels the function of a plant SWI/SNF complex involved in +1 nucleosome positioning and transcription start site determination.