bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear kernel mode‐based regression for dependent data
Authors: Wang Tao
Published: May 2023

Under stationary ‐mixing dependent samples, we in this article develop a novel nonlinear regression based on mode value for time series sequences to achieve robustness without sacrificing estimation efficiency. The estimation process is built on a kernel‐based objective function with a constant bandwidth (tuning parameter) that is independent of sample size and can be adjusted to maximize efficiency. The asymptotic distribution of the resultant estimator is established under suitable conditions, and the convergence rate is demonstrated to be the same as that in nonlinear mean regression. To numerically estimate the kernel mode‐based regression, we develop a modified modal‐expectation‐maximization algorithm in conjunction with Taylor expansion. A robust Wald‐type test statistic derived from the resulting estimator is also provided, along with its asymptotic distribution for the null and alternative hypotheses. The local robustness of the proposed estimation procedure is studied using influence function analysis, and the good finite sample performance of the newly suggested model is verified through Monte Carlo simulations. We finally combine the recommended kernel mode‐based regression with neural networks to develop a kernel mode‐based neural networks model, the performance of which is evidenced by an empirical examination of exchange rate prediction.
Dynamics of market making algorithms in dealer markets: Learning and tacit collusion
Authors: Cont Rama , Xiong Wei
Published: May 2023

The widespread use of market‐making algorithms in electronic over‐the‐counter markets may give rise to unexpected effects resulting from the autonomous learning dynamics of these algorithms. In particular the possibility of “tacit collusion” among market makers has increasingly received regulatory scrutiny. We model the interaction of market makers in a dealer market as a stochastic differential game of intensity control with partial information and study the resulting dynamics of bid‐ask spreads. Competition among dealers is modeled as a Nash equilibrium, while collusion is described in terms of Pareto optima. Using a decentralized multi‐agent deep reinforcement learning algorithm to model how competing market makers learn to adjust their quotes, we show that the interaction of market making algorithms via market prices, without any sharing of information, may give rise to tacit collusion, with spread levels strictly above the competitive equilibrium level.
The reporting of ethical review and ethical considerations in articles published in medical education journals: A literature review
Authors: Schutte Tim , Fasel Maaike E. , Fokkens Janneke T. , Wouters Anouk
Published: May 2023

Background

Health professions education research (HPE‐R) must be ethically sound. Ethical review decisions and other ethical considerations should be clearly reported in journal articles to allow readers to assess the ethical soundness of the research. We explored and evaluated how ethical review decisions and ethical considerations for HPE‐R are reported in health professions education (HPE) journal articles.

Methods

We identified a 1‐year sample, for 2020, of eight HPE journals. We systematically assessed the reporting of ethical review and key ethical considerations in the articles in the sample.

Results

The search yielded 2004 articles, of which 955 articles (47.7%) were eligible and were thus assessed. Most (83.4%) of the assessed articles mentioned a review by an ethical review board (ERB). In the category ‘research articles’, 92% articles reported the outcome of the ethical review. In the category ‘other articles’ (e.g. educational case reports), reporting of ethical processes was less common (32%). Overall, the reporting of key ethical considerations was limited, although these considerations were more reported in ‘research articles’ compared with ‘other articles’.

Conclusions

ERB assessments and HPE‐R approval was reported in most research articles. This finding is an improvement compared with previous evaluations of ethical research practice in HPE‐R. All studies, particularly those that are exempted or not fully reviewed, should describe their key ethical considerations clearly to enable the HPE community to assess the ethical soundness. Our review revealed that the reporting of ethical considerations was limited and deserves attention from the research community.
Everything OLD is new again: How structural, functional, and bioinformatic advances have redefined a neglected nuclease family
Authors: Dot Elena Wanvig , Thomason Lynn C. , Chappie Joshua S.
Published: May 2023

Overcoming lysogenization defect (OLD) proteins are a conserved family of ATP‐powered nucleases that function in anti‐phage defense. Recent bioinformatic, genetic, and crystallographic studies have yielded new insights into the structure, function, and evolution of these enzymes. Here we review these developments and propose a new classification scheme to categorize OLD homologs that relies on gene neighborhoods, biochemical properties, domain organization, and catalytic machinery. This taxonomy reveals important similarities and differences between family members and provides a blueprint to contextualize future in vivo and in vitro findings. We also detail how OLD nucleases are related to PARIS and Septu anti‐phage defense systems and discuss important mechanistic questions that remain unanswered.
National indifferences during everyday nationalism: Experiencing the nation in Finland in the aftermath of the Second World War
Authors: Kivimäki Ville , Suodenjoki Sami , Vahtikari Tanja
Published: May 2023

Our article discusses the adaptability of the concept of national indifference to the context of post‐war Finnish society and everyday nationalism. This period witnessed a transformation of previously exclusive and aggressive nationalism into a tempered and relatively inclusive version. Within this historical context, national indifference became an entangled category that could not be clearly attributed to a specific group of people but which carried with it a gradual change in subjective attitudes and consciousness. The case of post‐war Finland demonstrates that just as nationalism changed its shape over time, becoming subtly embedded in everyday life, so too did national indifference. The article thus argues that an increase in the level of national indifference could actually make space for national integration and, furthermore, that any given expressions of nationalism, as well as the lack of them, must be studied against the background of people's experiences, which lend historically conditioned meaning to national sentiment and indifference alike.
Incidence of relapse and frequently relapsing/steroid‐dependent nephrotic syndrome in Chinese children with steroid‐sensitive nephrotic syndrome: A cohort study
Authors: Ying Daojing , Yu Nannan , Lin Zhilang , Chen Lizhi , Rong Liping , Wu Jingyi , Jiang Mengjie , Jiang Xiaoyun
Published: May 2023

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the incidence of relapse and FR/SDNS in Chinese children with SSNS and to develop clinical prediction models for relapse and FR/SDNS.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study involved 339 newly onset SSNS patients between 2006 and 2016. The incidence of relapse and FR/SDNS were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Prediction models were constructed based on Cox proportional‐hazards regression.

Results

The median follow‐up time was 8.7 years. The cumulative incidence of relapse at 1‐, 2‐, and 5‐year was 51.0%, 62.5%, and 66.6%. The cumulative incidence of FR/SDNS at 1‐, 2‐, and 5‐year was 18.4%, 29.0%, and 32.9%. The final prediction model for first relapse included four variables (serum albumin, triglycerides, IgM, and time to first remission). The model's discriminative ability was low (Harrell's C index = 0.62). The final prediction model for FR/SDNS included four variables (serum albumin, lipoprotein(a), time to first remission, and time to first relapse). The discrimination and calibration of the prediction model for FR/SDNS were acceptable (Harrell's C index = 0.73, Brier score at 1‐ and 2‐year were 0.11 and 0.17).

Conclusion

The first relapse and FR/SDNS mainly occurred in the first 2 years after initial SSNS onset. The prediction model for relapse developed using common clinical parameters performed poorly, while the prediction model for FR/SDNS might be useful.
Renal agenesis: A meta‐analysis of its prevalence and clinical characteristics based on 15 641 184 patients
Authors: Plutecki Dawid , Kozioł Tomasz , Bonczar Michał , Ostrowski Patryk , Skorupa Alicja , Matejuk Szymon , Walocha Jerzy , Pękala Jakub , Musiał Agata , Pasternak Artur , Koziej Mateusz
Published: May 2023

Our objective was to analyse the newest relevant data on worldwide prevalence and associated symptoms of renal agenesis (RA). This meta‐analysis builds on previous systematic reviews to include bilateral RA, its symptoms and data on gender, unilateral RA and anomaly location prevalence. Review of available data included records in English and other languages from PubMed, Embase, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, SciELO, BIOSIS, Current Content Connect Korean Journal Database and Russian Citation Index and Google. A total of 15 641 184 patients were analysed in relation to the prevalence of RA. The pooled prevalence of RA was 0.03% (95% CI: 0.03%–0.04%). Based on 500 subjects, a pooled prevalence of 47.96% (95% CI: 31.55%–64.58%) for unilateral and 52.04% (95% CI: 35.42%–68.45%) for bilateral RA has been set. Our study presents the newest generalized findings on bilateral RA. There appears to be universal disease and symptom prevalence with minor differences between world regions, although quality of future observational research should include genomic data. This will provide even further insight into the prognosis of various renal anomalies and their etiologies.
Just‐relations and responsibility for planetary health: The global nurse agenda for climate justice
Authors: Evans‐Agnew Robin , LeClair Jessica , Sheppard De‐Ann
Published: May 2023

There is an urgent call for nurses to address climate change, especially in advocating for those most under threat to the impacts. Social justice is important to nurses in their relations with individuals and populations, including actions to address climate justice. The purpose of this article is to present a Global Nurse Agenda for Climate Justice to spark dialog, provide direction, and to promote nursing action for just‐relations and responsibility for planetary health. Grounding ourselves within the Mi'kmaw concept of Etuaptmumk (two‐eyed seeing), we suggest that climate justice is both call and response, moving nurses from silence to Ksaltultinej (love as action). We review the movement for climate justice in nursing, weaving between our own stories, our relations with Mi'kmaw ways of knowing, and the stories of the movement, with considerations for the (w)holistic perspectives foundational to nursing's metaparadigm of person, environment, and health. We provide a background to the work of the Global Nurse Agenda for Climate Justice steering committee including their role at the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, 2021, and share our own stories of action to frame this agenda. We accept our Responsibility for the challenges of climate justice with humility and invite others to join us.
“Who has been here that looks like me?”: A narrative inquiry into Black, Indigenous, and People of Color graduate nursing students' experiences of white academic spaces
Authors: Hamzavi Neda , Brown Helen
Published: May 2023

Canadian Schools of Nursing rest upon white, colonial legacies that have shaped and defined what is valued as nursing knowledge and pedagogy. The diversity that exists in clinical nursing and is emerging within the graduate student population is not currently reflected within nursing faculty and academic leadership. Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) nurse leaders, historically and presently, are repeatedly left unacknowledged as knowers and keepers of nursing knowledge. This lack of diversity persists across nursing knowledge generation, research, and healthcare practices that ultimately aim to serve the increasingly diverse Canadian population. This narrative inquiry study examined the experiences of eight BIPOC graduate nursing students as they navigated white academic nursing spaces. The findings are presented to reflect their experiences of entrenched in whiteness, erasure of identity, and navigating belonging. These study findings highlight the importance of surfacing academic nursing history shaped by colonialism and racism, the need to diversify nursing faculty and the graduate nursing student population, and implementing nursing curricular and syllabi audits to ensure that they reflect the multitude of ways of knowing to expand dominant Eurocentric and Western knowledge in nursing education.
A pathogen effector FOLD diversified in symbiotic fungi
Authors: Teulet Albin , Quan Clément , Evangelisti Edouard , Wanke Alan , Yang Weibing , Schornack Sebastian
Published: May 2023

Pathogenic fungi use secreted effector proteins to suppress immunity and support their infection, but effectors have also been reported from fungi that engage in nutritional symbioses with plants. Sequence‐based effector comparisons between pathogens and symbiotic arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are hampered by the huge diversity of effector sequences even within closely related microbes.

To find sequence‐divergent but structurally similar effectors shared between symbiotic and pathogenic fungi, we compared secreted protein structure models of the AM fungus Rhizophagus irregularis to known pathogen effectors. We identified proteins with structural similarity to known Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici dual domain (FOLD) effectors, which occur in low numbers in several fungal pathogens. Contrastingly, FOLD genes from AM fungi (MycFOLDs) are found in enlarged and diversified gene families with higher levels of positive selection in their C‐terminal domains.

Our structure model comparison suggests that MycFOLDs are similar to carbohydrate‐binding motifs. Different MycFOLD genes are expressed during colonisation of different hosts and MycFOLD‐17 transcripts accumulate in plant intracellular arbuscules.

The exclusive presence of MycFOLDs across unrelated plant‐colonising fungi, their inducible expression, lineage‐specific sequence diversification and transcripts in arbuscules suggest that FOLD proteins act as effectors during plant colonisation of symbiotic and pathogenic fungi.
Clinical Outcomes of Open‐Door Laminoplasty Combined with Bilateral Lateral Mass Screw Fixation for Multi‐Level Cervical Spinal Stenosis with Traumatic Cervical Instability and Spinal Cord Injury: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Liu Guanyi , Hu Lihua , Ma Weihu , Xu Ding , Gu Yongjie , Hu Yong , Ruan Hongfeng , Tian Kun
Published: May 2023

Objectives

The prevalence of multi‐level cervical spinal stenosis complicated with traumatic cervical instability and spinal cord injury (MCSS‐TCISCI) is low, and the optimal surgical approach remains unclear. Open‐door laminoplasty combined with bilateral lateral mass screw fixation (ODL‐BLMSF) is a relatively new surgical technique; however, its clinical effectiveness in managing MCSS‐TCISCI has not been well‐established. This study aims to assess the clinical value of ODL‐BLMSF against MCSS‐TCISCI.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 20 cases of MCSS‐TCISCI treated with ODL‐BLMSF from July 2016 to June 2020. Radiographic alterations of all included patients were measured using plain radiographs, CT scans, and MRI scans. Cervical lordosis was evaluated using C2‐C7 Cobb angle and cervical curvature index (CCI) on lateral radiographs, and Pavlov ratio at the C5 level. Neurological functional recovery was assessed using Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores and Nurick grade, while neck and axial symptoms were assessed using the neck disability index (NDI) and the visual analog scale (VAS). The paired t‐test was utilized for statistical analysis.

Results

All included patients were followed up for an average period of 26.5 months (range: 24–30 months) after ODL‐BLMSF. The average Pavlov ratio at the C5 level significantly improved from 0.57 ± 0.1 preoperatively to 1.13 ± 0.1 and 1.12 ± 0.04 at 6 months postoperatively and at the last follow‐up (t = 16.347, 16.536, p < 0.001). Importantly, this approach significantly increased the JOA score from 5.0 ± 2.6 before surgery to 11.65 ± 4.3 and 12.1 ± 4.3 at 6 months postoperatively and at the last follow‐up (t = 9.6, −9.600, p < 0.001), with an average JOA recovery rate of 59.1%; and the average Nurick disability score decreased from 3.0 ± 1.3 (preoperative) to 1.65 ± 1.22 and 1.5 ± 1.2 (6 months postoperatively and at last follow‐up) (t = 5.111, 1.831, p < 0.001). Meanwhile, the NDI score decreased from 30.3 ± 4.3 preoperatively to 13.2 ± 9.2 at 6 months (t = 12.305, p < 0.001), and to 12.45 ± 8.6 at the final follow‐up (t = 13.968, p < 0.001), while the VAS score decreased from 4.0 ± 1.5 preoperatively to 1.5 ± 0.7 at 6 months (t = 9.575, p < 0.001), and to 1.15 ± 0.7 at the final follow‐up (t = 10.356, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

ODL‐BLMSF can effectively dilate the stenotic spinal canal to decompress the spinal cord, maintain good cervical alignment and stability, and improve the recovery of neurological function and neck function. This technique is suitable for treating selected cases of MCSS‐TCISCI.
Long‐term success of a multi‐electrode substrate mapping and ablation strategy versus a classic single tip mapping and ablation strategy for ventricular tachycardia ablation in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Balt Jippe C. , Abeln Bob G. S. , Mahmoodi Bakhtawar K. , van Dijk Vincent F. , Wijffels Maurits C. E. F. , Boersma Lucas V. A.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Over the past years, mapping and ablation techniques for the treatment of ventricular tachycardia (VT) have evolved rapidly. High Density (HD) substrate mapping is now routine and pre‐procedural imaging is increasingly used. The additional value of these techniques for long‐term VT‐free survival is not clear.

Methods

We compared baseline and procedural characteristics, procedural success, safety and outcome of mapping and ablation of ventricular tachycardia in patients with ischemic heart disease between two groups. (1) Low Density (LD) group: VT mapping and ablation with a 4 mm single tip catheter (2) HD group: HD substrate mapping with the Pentaray (Biosense Webster, USA) or HD Grid (Abbott, USA) catheter and ablation with a 4 mm single tip catheter.

Results

VT ablation was performed in 133 patients (71 patients in LD group and 62 patients in HD group). The median follow‐up was 5.0 years in LD group and 2.0 years in HD group. One‐, two‐, and five‐year VT recurrence rates were 47%, 56%, and 65% in the LD group versus 39%, 50%, and 55% in the HD group (log‐rank test for VT recurrence p = .70). One‐, two‐, and five‐year ICD shock recurrence rates were 14%, 18%, and 24% in the LD group versus 8%, 15%, and 19% in the HD group (log‐rank test for ICD‐shock p = .79). All‐cause mortality, cardiac (non‐arrhythmic), and arrhythmic death, were similar in both groups. Severe procedural complications (tamponade, stroke, or procedural death) occurred in four patients (5%, 1 vascular, 3 tamponade) in the LD group versus two patients (3%, both tamponade) in the HD group (NS). In univariate and multivariable analysis, only a higher LVEF was significantly associated with VT‐free survival. HD mapping was not significantly associated with VT‐free survival. Anterior infarct location and age were significantly associated with ICD recurrent shock in both univariate and multivariable analyses.

Conclusions

In patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy, a HD substrate mapping, and ablation strategy did not lead to higher VT‐free survival and shock‐free survival compared to a single tip mapping and ablation strategy. In this study, only LVF is an independent predictor for VT recurrence. Anterior infarct location and age predict recurrent ICD shocks.
Breeding evaluation and precise mapping of Fhb8 for Fusarium head blight resistance in wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Authors: Wang Xin , Li Guoqiang , Jia Haiyan , Cheng Rui , Zhong Jinkun , Shi Jinxing , Chen Ruitong , Wen Yixuan , Ma Zhengqiang
Published: May 2023

The percentage of Fusarium‐damaged kernels (FDK) was proposed as a type of Fusarium head blight (FHB) resistance displayed in matured wheat kernels. In this study, Qfdk.nau‐7D, a QTL identified in the Wangshuibai genome for its association with FDK, was introduced into FHB‐susceptible common wheat line PH691 through marker‐assisted selection and backcrossing. Evaluation of two resulted near‐isogenic lines (NILs) showed that the contribution of Qfdk.nau‐7D interval to lower FDK resulted from its effects on resistance to pathogen infection and to disease spread within the spike. Of a few major agronomic traits evaluated, head length was the only one that made difference between PH691 and the NILs. To reduce the QTL interval, a high‐density marker map was constructed using a BC3F2 population of 97 plants. Through resistance evaluation of the homozygous recombinant lines in repeated field trials, Qfdk.nau‐7D, designated as Fhb8, was placed in a 1.0‐cM Xwgrb1500‐Xwgrb1559 interval (from 93.9–96.5 Mb in CS) and showed co‐segregation with Xwgrb1587. Moreover, it was found that the association of Fhb8 with head length was due to close linkage with spike length QTL HL2.
B‐GATA factors are required to repress high‐light stress responses in Marchantia polymorpha and Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Schröder Peter , Hsu Bang‐Yu , Gutsche Nora , Winkler Jana Barbro , Hedtke Boris , Grimm Bernhard , Schwechheimer Claus
Published: May 2023

GATAs are evolutionarily conserved zinc‐finger transcription factors from eukaryotes. In plants, GATAs can be subdivided into four classes, A–D, based on their DNA‐binding domain, and into further subclasses based on additional protein motifs. B‐GATAs with a so‐called leucine‐leucine‐methionine (LLM)‐domain can already be found in algae. In angiosperms, the B‐GATA family is expanded and can be subdivided in to LLM‐ or HAN‐domain B‐GATAs. Both, the LLM‐ and the HAN‐domain are conserved domains of unknown biochemical function. Interestingly, the B‐GATA family in the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha and the moss Physcomitrium patens is restricted to one and four family members, respectively. And, in contrast to vascular plants, the bryophyte B‐GATAs contain a HAN‐ as well as an LLM‐domain. Here, we characterise mutants of the single B‐GATA from Marchantia polymorpha. We reveal that this mutant has defects in thallus growth and in gemma formation. Transcriptomic studies uncover that the B‐GATA mutant displays a constitutive high‐light (HL) stress response, a phenotype that we then also confirm in mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana LLM‐domain B‐GATAs, suggesting that the B‐GATAs have a protective role towards HL stress.
Oral candidiasis and seborrheic dermatitis in an 8‐year‐old female with a heterozygous variant of the IL‐17RC gene
Authors: Bentivegna Kathryn , Adalsteinsson Jonas A. , Chang Mary Wu
Published: May 2023

An 8‐year‐old female with chronic oral candidiasis and severe seborrheic dermatitis was found to have a heterozygous mutation (p.R14X c.40 C>T) of the IL‐17RC gene, which was predicted to possibly represent a new pathogenic variant via truncation or nonsense‐mediated mRNA decay. Given previously reported IL‐17RC‐related disorders are autosomal recessive, we would expect an affected individual to have two mutated alleles whereas our patient was heterozygous. Given the overlapping clinical picture, this variant could be responsible for altered immunity against both Candida and Malassezia species. This is the first report to our knowledge of chronic oral candidiasis and severe seborrheic dermatitis in a patient with a heterozygous variant (p.R14X c.40 C>T) for the IL‐17RC gene.
Metopic ridge presenting to pediatric dermatology and vascular anomalies clinics
Authors: Mologousis Mia A. , Rork Jillian F. , Balkin Daniel M. , Berry Jay G. , Liang Marilyn G.
Published: May 2023

Metopic ridge (MeR) is a midline osseous forehead prominence resulting from physiologic closure of the underlying metopic suture. This mass‐like ridge can be mistaken for serious conditions such as a craniosynostosis or vascular anomaly, prompting concern and workup. We reviewed patients presenting for a forehead mass to Vascular Anomalies and Dermatology clinics and diagnosed with MeR to increase familiarity with this finding and to encourage MeR in the differential diagnosis of pediatric midline forehead masses.
Understanding relationship satisfaction during COVID‐19: Assessing unstable work experiences and negative communication
Authors: Kanter Jeremy B. , Monk J. Kale , Proulx Christine M. , Ogan Matthew A.
Published: May 2023

The coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic resulted in economic concerns and disruptions in daily life for many families, which may amplify relational strains and create new tensions between romantic partners. Economic stressors may be particularly salient to later relationship quality in the context of more negative relationship functioning. This study investigated dyadic trajectories of relationship satisfaction in 116 different‐sex couples over a 6‐month period during the pandemic. We explored the impact of unstable work experiences on later relationship satisfaction, and if this effect was exacerbated by higher levels of negative communication. Men and women had different initial levels of relationship satisfaction, but indistinguishable rates of change in satisfaction. For men, reports of unstable work experiences early in the pandemic were positively associated with declines in relationship satisfaction, but this was not the case for women. The consequential impact of unstable work experiences did not differ based on levels of negative communication, nor was negative communication early in the pandemic related to either partner's change in satisfaction over time. We conclude by highlighting the importance of accounting for the context in which relationships develop.
fMRI reveals overlapping and non‐overlapping neural bases of domain‐general and emotional conflict control
Authors: Guo Tingting , Schwieter John W. , Liu Huanhuan
Published: May 2023

The present study uses functional magnetic resonance image (fMRI) to examine the overlapping and specific neural correlates of contextualized emotional conflict control and domain‐general conflict control. During a performance on emotional and domain‐general conflict tasks, conjunction analyses showed that neural areas distributed in the frontoparietal network were engaged in both processes, supporting the notion that similar neural mechanisms are implemented in these two types of control. Importantly, disjunction analyses revealed a broader neural recruitment of emotional conflict control compared to domain‐general conflict control as shown by the possible lateralization of the lateral prefrontal cortex (lPFC), such that emotional conflict control significantly involved the left lPFC while domain‐general conflict control seemly involved the right lPFC. Results of generalized psychophysiological interaction (gPPI) analyses further demonstrated that emotional conflict control, compared to domain‐general conflict control, elicited broader synergistic activities in individuals' brain networks. Together, these findings offer novel and compelling neural evidence that furthers our understanding of the complex relationship between domain‐general and emotional conflict control.
Exceptional Laurent biorthogonal polynomials through spectral transformations of generalized eigenvalue problems
Authors: Luo Yu , Tsujimoto Satoshi
Published: May 2023

A formulation is given for the spectral transformation of the generalized eigenvalue problem through the decomposition of the second‐order differential operators. This allows us to construct some Laurent biorthogonal polynomial systems with gaps in the degree of the polynomial sequence. These correspond to an exceptional‐type extension of the orthogonal polynomials, as an extension of the Laurent biorthogonal polynomials. Specifically, we construct the exceptional extension of the Hendriksen–van Rossum polynomials, which are biorthogonal analogs of the classical orthogonal polynomials. Similar to the cases of exceptional extensions of classical orthogonal polynomials, both state‐deletion and state‐addition occur.
Identifying people requiring special care dentistry: A scoping review
Authors: Bogner Marie‐Sophie , Eschevins Caroline , Faulks Denise
Published: May 2023

Aims

This scoping review aimed to document tools designed to identify persons requiring special care dentistry (SCD) and to provide a better understanding of the factors that justify adaptation in the provision of care.

Methods

A scoping review methodology was applied. An electronic search was performed in April 2021 using Pubmed and Embase. Additional tools were sought using hand searches and informal professional networking.

Results

Ten tools were identified that either predict the complexity of dental management or that retrospectively judge the complexity of care, of which two are as yet unpublished. Some had been developed for a specific population (e.g., patients with Alzheimer's disease, with learning disability, elderly persons) whilst others were applicable for any population (case mix tools). Factors considered included the patient's medical history, ability to cooperate, physical and cognitive autonomy, communication skills, anxiety, need for sedation, oral risk factors, ability to consent and the administrative burden for the dentist.

Conclusion

Identifying persons requiring SCD is possible by looking at various factors that influence the provision of dental care. There may be need for adaptation of tools to local circumstances and to the intended usage of the tool at a health services, systems or policy level.
Clay minerals in soils and sediment as tracers of provenance: The case study of the N'fis watershed, Morocco
Authors: Gourfi Abdelali , Daoudi Lahcen , Daoud Najat Ben , Fagel Nathalie
Published: May 2023

Reservoir siltation remains a complex and challenging problem worldwide. Understanding the sources of sedimentation will be of great interest to preserving reservoir storage capacity as well as addressing land loss. This study selected the Takerkouste reservoir, at the outlet of the N'fis basin (High Atlas of Morocco). Four sediment cores and 30 soil samples were collected in the basin. Size distribution and mineralogy of soil and sediment samples were compared and used as tracers to identify the provenances of the sediments reaching the reservoirs from different tributaries. Results show that sediments in the Takerkouste reservoir are illite‐rich minerals with high crystallinity mainly originating from the erosion of schist formations situated in the northern part of the watershed. In parallel, mineralogy, illite crystallinity and chemistry indices of sediments in the reservoir indicate a change in sources because of the construction of a new dam upstream.
The control of collisional tectonics over valley morphology: the case of the largest glacier in the European Alps
Authors: Musso Piantelli Ferdinando , Truttmann Sandro , Herwegh Marco
Published: May 2023

Understanding how bedrock properties influence the valley‐forming processes of Alpine landscapes is an outstanding challenge. A multi‐methodological approach was used to uniformly quantify fault frequency, orientation, and rock hardness of crystalline basement rocks to evaluate their impact on the erosional processes that shaped the valley of the Aletsch Glacier, Switzerland. We show how variations in fault frequency and orientations, imposed by the inherited collisional framework of the area, controls the local erodibility of the valley, affecting both hillslopes and channel erosion processes. Our results highlight how tectonic preconditioning exerts a first‐order control on the efficiency of erosion in the mountain chain, elucidating an integral link between deep‐seated collisional dynamics and surface‐based mountain shaping. Moreover, our results express the importance of a uniform, quantitative characterization of bedrock properties to comprehend the interaction and variability of erosional processes and hazards distributed within the valley systems.
SARS‐CoV‐2 seroprevalence among blood donors in Uganda: 2019–2022
Authors: Bloch Evan M. , Kyeyune Dorothy , White Jodie L. , Ddungu Henry , Ashokkumar Swetha , Habtehyimer Feben , Baker Owen , Kasirye Ronnie , Patel Eshan U. , Grabowski M. Kate , Musisi Ezra , Moses Khan , Hume Heather A. , Lubega Irene , Shrestha Ruchee , Motevalli Mahnaz , Fernandez Reinaldo E. , Reynolds Steven J. , Redd Andrew D. , Wambongo Musana Hellen , Dhabangi Aggrey , Ouma Joseph , Eroju Priscilla , de Lange Telsa , Fowler Mary Glenn , Musoke Philippa , Stramer Susan L. , Whitby Denise , Zimmerman Peter A. , McCullough Jeffrey , Sachithanandham Jaiprasath , Pekosz Andrew , Goodrich Raymond , Quinn Thomas C. , Ness Paul M. , Laeyendecker Oliver , Tobian Aaron A. R.
Published: May 2023

Background

The true burden of COVID‐19 in low‐ and middle‐income countries remains poorly characterized, especially in Africa. Even prior to the availability of SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines, countries in Africa had lower numbers of reported COVID‐19 related hospitalizations and deaths than other regions globally.

Methods

Ugandan blood donors were evaluated between October 2019 and April 2022 for IgG antibodies to SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleocapsid (N), spike (S), and five variants of the S protein using multiplexed electrochemiluminescence immunoassays (MesoScale Diagnostics, Rockville, MD). Seropositivity for N and S was assigned using manufacturer‐provided cutoffs and trends in seroprevalence were estimated by quarter. Statistically significant associations between N and S antibody seropositivity and donor characteristics in November–December 2021 were assessed by chi‐square tests.

Results

A total of 5393 blood unit samples from donors were evaluated. N and S seropositivity increased throughout the pandemic to 82.6% in January–April 2022. Among seropositive individuals, N and S antibody levels increased ≥9‐fold over the study period. In November–December 2021, seropositivity to N and S antibody was higher among repeat donors (61.3%) compared with new donors (55.1%; p = .043) and among donors from Kampala (capital city of Uganda) compared with rural regions (p = .007). Seropositivity to S antibody was significantly lower among HIV‐seropositive individuals (58.8% vs. 84.9%; p = .009).

Conclusions

Despite previously reported low numbers of COVID‐19 cases and related deaths in Uganda, high SARS‐CoV‐2 seroprevalence and increasing antibody levels among blood donors indicated that the country experienced high levels of infection over the course of the pandemic.
Ripple effects in regional value chains: Evidence from an episode of the US–China trade war
Authors: Hayakawa Kazunobu , Pyun Ju Hyun , Yamashita Nobuaki , Yang Chih‐hai
Published: May 2023

This study empirically examines the ripple effect of demand shocks on upstream suppliers in regional value chains. Specifically, we investigate how changes in US imports from China alter China's imports of intermediate inputs in machinery industries from Japan, South Korea and Taiwan. The analysis of China's monthly imports from the three supplier economies during 2018–2019 finds that the decrease in China's output exports to the US caused by the Trump tariffs reduced China's input imports from supplier economies. Also, this adverse ripple effect was the most significant in Taiwan, where multinational enterprises use China as an export platform.
Accelerating Chemical Kinetics Calculations With Physics Informed Neural Networks
Authors: Almeldein Ahmed , Van Dam Noah
Published: May 2023

Detailed chemical kinetics calculations can be very computationally expensive, and so various approaches have been used to speed up combustion calculations. Deep neural networks (DNNs) are one promising approach that has seen significant development recently. Standard DNNs, however, do not necessarily follow physical constraints such as conservation of mass. Physics Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) are a class of neural networks that have physical laws embedded within the training process to create networks that follow those physical laws. A new PINN-based DNN approach to chemical kinetics modeling has been developed to make sure mass fraction predictions adhere to the conservation of atomic species. The approach also utilizes a mixture-of-experts (MOE) architecture where the data is distributed on multiple subnetworks followed by a softmax selective layer. The MOE architecture allows the different subnetworks to specialize in different thermochemical regimes, such as early stage ignition reactions or post-flame equilibrium chemistry, then the softmax layer smoothly transitions between the subnetwork predictions. This modeling approach was applied to the prediction of methane-air combustion using the GRI-Mech 3.0 as the reference mechanism. The training database was composed of data from 0D ignition delay simulations under initial conditions of 0.2–50 bar pressure, 500–2000 K temperature, an equivalence ratio between 0 and 2, and an N2-dilution percentage of up to 50%. A wide variety of network sizes and architectures of between 3 and 20 subnetworks and 6,600 to 77,000 neurons were tested. The resulting networks were able to predict 0D combustion simulations with similar accuracy and atomic mass conservation as standard kinetics solvers while having a 10-50× speedup in online evaluation time using CPUs, and on average over 200× when using a GPU.
Comparison study of mouse brain tissue by using ToF-SIMS within static limits and hybrid SIMS beyond static limits (dynamic mode)
Authors: Shon Hyun Kyong , Son Jin Gyeong , Lee Sun Young , Moon Jeong Hee , Lee Ga Seul , Kim Kyoung-Shim , Lee Tae Geol
Published: May 2023

In the study of degenerative brain diseases, changes in lipids, the main component of neurons, are particularly important because they are used as indicators of pathological changes. One method for the sensitive measurement of biomolecules, especially lipids, is time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) using pulsed argon cluster ions. In this study, biomolecules including various lipids present in normal mouse brain tissue were measured using ToF-SIMS equipped with pulsed argon cluster primary ions. Based on the ToF-SIMS measurement results, hybrid SIMS (OrbiSIMS), which is a ToF-SIMS system with the addition of an orbitrap mass analyzer, was used to directly identify the biomolecules by the region in the real tissue samples. For this, the results of ToF-SIMS, which measured the tissue samples from a single mouse brain within static limits, were compared with those from OrbiSIMS measured beyond the static limits in terms of the differences in molecular profiling. From this analysis, two types of positive and negative ions were selected for identification, with the OrbiSIMS MS/MS results indicating that the positive ions were glycerophosphocholine and the negative ions were glycerophosphoinositol and sulfatide, a sphingolipid. Then, to confirm the identification of the molecular candidates, lipids were extracted from mirror image tissue samples, and LC-MS/MS also using an orbitrap mass analyzer was performed. As a result, the direct identification of molecular candidate groups distributed in particular regions of the tissue samples via OrbiSIMS was found to be consistent with the identification results by LC-MS/MS for extracted samples.
Time-of-flight SIMS investigation of peptides containing cell penetrating sequences
Authors: Auditore Alessandro , Tuccitto Nunzio , Grasso Giuseppe , Monasson Olivier , Peroni Elisa , Licciardello Antonino
Published: May 2023

Surface functionalization with biological molecules, such as peptides or proteins, is a very promising method for developing new biomaterials with many potential applications. However, due to their chemical complexity, the characterization of biological materials is often a very challenging task. In this context, time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry is a very helpful characterization tool due to its ability to provide very detailed spatially resolved chemical information of the topmost layer. The peculiar emission/ion formation mechanisms involved in ToF-SIMS analysis often do not allow the detection of the molecular ion of proteins and peptides, providing a rich fragmentation pattern, which is difficult to be related to the surface composition using a univariate approach, due to the relevant number of peaks in the SIMS spectra of peptides and proteins and the slight differences in intensities between different samples. Therefore, we used multivariate analysis to extract the information contained in the ToF-SIMS spectra of four peptides with high amino acid sequence similarity along the peptide chain. The reference peptide (TAT1) is a 12-unit sequence of six amino acids (GRKKRRQRRRPS). The other three peptides have been obtained by inserting a bAla-H dipeptide (carnosine) in three different positions inside the TAT1 chain, namely, GRKKRRQRRRPS-bAla-H (TAT1-Car), bAla-HGRKKRRQRRRPS (Car-TAT1), and GRKKRRQ-bAla-H-RRRPS (T-Car-T). We show that these peptides can be distinguished by ToF-SIMS combined with multivariate data analysis.
Fast volumetric ultrasound facilitates high-resolution 3D mapping of tissue compartments
Authors: Park Eun-Yeong , Cai Xiran , Foiret Josquin , Bendjador Hanna , Hyun Dongwoon , Fite Brett Z. , Wodnicki Robert , Dahl Jeremy J. , Boutin Robert D. , Ferrara Katherine W.
Published: May 2023

Volumetric ultrasound imaging has the potential for operator-independent acquisition and enhanced field of view. Panoramic acquisition has many applications across ultrasound; spanning musculoskeletal, liver, breast, and pediatric imaging; and image-guided therapy. Challenges in high-resolution human imaging, such as subtle motion and the presence of bone or gas, have limited such acquisition. These issues can be addressed with a large transducer aperture and fast acquisition and processing. Programmable, ultrafast ultrasound scanners with a high channel count provide an unprecedented opportunity to optimize volumetric acquisition. In this work, we implement nonlinear processing and develop distributed beamformation to achieve fast acquisition over a 47-centimeter aperture. As a result, we achieve a 50-micrometer −6-decibel point spread function at 5 megahertz and resolve in-plane targets. A large volume scan of a human limb is completed in a few seconds, and in a 2-millimeter dorsal vein, the image intensity difference between the vessel center and surrounding tissue was ~50 decibels, facilitating three-dimensional reconstruction of the vasculature.
PSMC3 proteasome subunit variants are associated with neurodevelopmental delay and type I interferon production
Authors: Ebstein Frédéric , Küry Sébastien , Most Victoria , Rosenfelt Cory , Scott-Boyer Marie-Pier , van Woerden Geeske M. , Besnard Thomas , Papendorf Jonas Johannes , Studencka-Turski Maja , Wang Tianyun , Hsieh Tzung-Chien , Golnik Richard , Baldridge Dustin , Forster Cara , de Konink Charlotte , Teurlings Selina M.W. , Vignard Virginie , van Jaarsveld Richard H. , Ades Lesley , Cogné Benjamin , Mignot Cyril , Deb Wallid , Jongmans Marjolijn C.J. , Cole F. Sessions , van den Boogaard Marie-José H. , Wambach Jennifer A. , Wegner Daniel J. , Yang Sandra , Hannig Vickie , Brault Jennifer Ann , Zadeh Neda , Bennetts Bruce , Keren Boris , Gélineau Anne-Claire , Powis Zöe , Towne Meghan , Bachman Kristine , Seeley Andrea , Beck Anita E. , Morrison Jennifer , Westman Rachel , Averill Kelly , Brunet Theresa , Haasters Judith , Carter Melissa T. , Osmond Matthew , Wheeler Patricia G. , Forzano Francesca , Mohammed Shehla , Trakadis Yannis , Accogli Andrea , Harrison Rachel , Guo Yiran , Hakonarson Hakon , Rondeau Sophie , Baujat Geneviève , Barcia Giulia , Feichtinger René Günther , Mayr Johannes Adalbert , Preisel Martin , Laumonnier Frédéric , Kallinich Tilmann , Knaus Alexej , Isidor Bertrand , Krawitz Peter , Völker Uwe , Hammer Elke , Droit Arnaud , Eichler Evan E. , Elgersma Ype , Hildebrand Peter W. , Bolduc François , Krüger Elke , Bézieau Stéphane
Published: May 2023

A critical step in preserving protein homeostasis is the recognition, binding, unfolding, and translocation of protein substrates by six AAA-ATPase proteasome subunits (ATPase-associated with various cellular activities) termed PSMC1-6, which are required for degradation of proteins by 26
S
proteasomes. Here, we identified 15 de novo missense variants in the
PSMC3
gene encoding the AAA-ATPase proteasome subunit PSMC3/Rpt5 in 23 unrelated heterozygous patients with an autosomal dominant form of neurodevelopmental delay and intellectual disability. Expression of
PSMC3
variants in mouse neuronal cultures led to altered dendrite development, and deletion of the
PSMC3
fly ortholog Rpt5 impaired reversal learning capabilities in fruit flies. Structural modeling as well as proteomic and transcriptomic analyses of T cells derived from patients with
PSMC3
variants implicated the
PSMC3
variants in proteasome dysfunction through disruption of substrate translocation, induction of proteotoxic stress, and alterations in proteins controlling developmental and innate immune programs. The proteostatic perturbations in T cells from patients with
PSMC3
variants correlated with a dysregulation in type I interferon (IFN) signaling in these T cells, which could be blocked by inhibition of the intracellular stress sensor protein kinase R (PKR). These results suggest that proteotoxic stress activated PKR in patient-derived T cells, resulting in a type I IFN response. The potential relationship among proteosome dysfunction, type I IFN production, and neurodevelopment suggests new directions in our understanding of pathogenesis in some neurodevelopmental disorders.
Mapping the Kitchen Microbiota in Five European Countries Reveals a Set of Core Bacteria across Countries, Kitchen Surfaces, and Cleaning Utensils
Authors: Moen Birgitte , Langsrud Solveig , Berget Ingunn , Maugesten Tove , Møretrø Trond
Published: May 2023

There is limited knowledge of the characteristics, differences, and similarities of the bacterial composition in residential kitchens. Here, we report the microbiota of cleaning utensils (sponges and cloths) and five different surface samples in 74 households across five European countries.
Characterization of a Filamentous Phage, Vaf1, from
Vibrio alginolyticu
s AP-1
Authors: Li Xiaoyu , Wang Xiao , Li Ruoyu , Zhang Wan , Wang Lili , Yan Bo , Zhu Tongyu , Xu Yongping , Tan Demeng
Published: May 2023

Non-lytic filamentous phages can replicate without killing their host, establishing long-term persistence within the bacterial host. In contrast to the well-studied CTXφ phage of the human-pathogenic
Vibrio cholerae
, little is known about the filamentous phage Vaf1 and its biological role in host fitness.
Long Noncoding RNA Metastasis-Associated Lung Adenocarcinoma Transcript 1 Promotes HIV-1 Replication through Modulating microRNAs in Macrophages
Authors: Yuan Zhihong , Huang Yunlong , Sadikot Ruxana T.
Published: May 2023

Viral reservoirs constitute an obstacle to curing HIV-1 diseases, despite antiretroviral therapy. Macrophages serve as viral reservoirs in HIV infection by promoting long-term replication and latency.
Complete Genome Sequences of Xylella fastidiosa subsp.
fastidiosa
and X. fastidiosa subsp.
multiplex
Strains Causing Blueberry Bacterial Leaf Scorch Disease in Georgia, USA
Authors: Oliver Jonathan E. , Lewis Kippy J. , Taylor Shae J. , Chen Jianchi
Published: May 2023

Here, we report the complete genome sequences of
Xylella fastidiosa
subsp.
fastidiosa
strain AlmaReb2 and
X. fastidiosa
subsp.
multiplex
strain AlmaRebR6, causing blueberry bacterial leaf scorch disease in Georgia, USA. The
X. fastidiosa
subsp.
fastidiosa
AlmaRebR2 chromosome is 2,549,422 bp, and the
X. fastidiosa
subsp.
multiplex
AlmaReb6 chromosome is 2,530,348 bp.