bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Respiratory Virus–Specific Nasopharyngeal Lipidome Signatures and Severity in Infants With Bronchiolitis: A Prospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Kyo Michihito , Zhu Zhaozhong , Shibata Ryohei , Fujiogi Michimasa , Mansbach Jonathan M , Camargo Carlos A , Hasegawa Kohei
Published: May 2023

Background

In infant bronchiolitis, recent evidence indicates that respiratory viruses (eg, respiratory syncytial virus [RSV], rhinovirus [RV]) contribute to the heterogeneity of disease severity. Of the potential pathobiological molecules, lipids serve as signaling molecules in airway inflammation. However, little is known about the role of the airway lipidome in between-virus heterogeneity and disease severity.

Methods

In this multicenter prospective study of 800 infants hospitalized for RSV or RV bronchiolitis, we analyzed nasopharyngeal lipidome data. We examined discriminatory lipids between RSV and RV infection and the association of the discriminatory lipids with bronchiolitis severity, defined by positive pressure ventilation (PPV) use.

Results

We identified 30 discriminatory nasopharyngeal lipid species and 8 fatty acids between RSV and RV infection. In the multivariable models adjusting for patient-level confounders, 8 lipid species—for example, phosphatidylcholine (18:2/18:2) (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.23 [95% confidence interval {CI}, .11–.44]; false discovery rate [FDR] = 0.0004) and dihydroceramide (16:0) (aOR, 2.17 [95% CI, 1.12–3.96]; FDR = 0.04)—were significantly associated with the risk of PPV use. Additionally, 6 fatty acids—for example, eicosapentaenoic acid (aOR, 0.27 [95% CI, .11–.57]; FDR = 0.01)—were also significantly associated with the risk of PPV use.

Conclusions

In infants hospitalized for bronchiolitis, the nasopharyngeal lipidome plays an important role in the pathophysiology of between-virus heterogeneity and disease severity.
Prevalence of neonatal near miss in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Haile Teklehaimanot Gereziher , Gebregziabher Dawit , Gebremeskel Gebreamlak Gebremedhn , Mebrahtom Guesh , Aberhe Woldu , Hailay Abrha , Zereabruk Kidane , Gebrewahd Gebremeskel Tukue , Getachew Tamirat
Published: May 2023

Background

Neonatal near miss (NNM) applies to cases where newborns almost died during the first 28 d of life but survived life-threatening conditions following birth. The most vulnerable time for infant survival is the neonatal stage, corresponding to almost 50% of deaths occurring at <5 y of age. No study indicates the overall pooled prevalence of NNM in Africa. Thus this review aimed to estimate the overall pooled prevalence of NNMs in Africa.

Methods

Articles were retrieved through a comprehensive search strategy using PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Health InterNetwork Access to Research Initiative, Cochrane Library and Google Search. Data extraction was done independently by all authors. Forest plots and tables were used to represent the original data. The statistical heterogeneity was evaluated using I2 statistics. There was heterogeneity between the included articles. Therefore the authors used a meta-analysis of random effects to estimate the aggregate pooled prevalence of NNM in Africa. Funnel plot and Egger regression test methods were used to assess possible publication bias. R software version 3.5.3 and R studio version 1.2.5003 were used to analyse the data. The guideline of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses was used to publish this article. The review was registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration ID: CRD42021290223).

Results

Through an exhaustive search, we found 835 articles. However, we considered only eight full-text articles to be included in this meta-analysis. The analysis of included studies showed that the overall pooled prevalence of NNM in Africa was 30% (95% confidence interval [CI] 16 to 44). The subgroup analysis by study year showed that the prevalence of NNM from 2012–2015 and 2018–2019 was 36% (95% CI 23 to 49) and 20% (95% CI 1 to 39), respectively.

Conclusion

This finding suggests that the pooled prevalence of NNM is high in Africa as compared with other studies. Therefore the government and other stakeholders working on maternal and child health should assist in the design of interventions and strategies for improving the quality of neonatal care.
Incidence of ESBLs and carbapenemases among Enterobacterales and carbapenemases in Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates collected globally: results from ATLAS 2017–2019
Authors: Gales Ana C , Stone Gregory , Sahm Daniel F , Wise Mark G , Utt Eric
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To assess the global and regional distribution of ESBLs in Enterobacterales and carbapenemases in Enterobacterales and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Methods

Antimicrobial susceptibility of isolates collected from ATLAS (2017–2019) was determined per CLSI guidelines. Enterobacterales exhibiting meropenem MICs ≥2 mg/L and/or ceftazidime/avibactam and/or aztreonam/avibactam MICs ≥16 mg/L, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae with aztreonam and/or ceftazidime MICs ≥2 mg/L, and P. aeruginosa with meropenem MICs ≥4 mg/L were screened for β-lactamases by PCR and sequencing.

Results

Globally, ESBL-positive E. coli (23.7%, 4750/20047) and K. pneumoniae (35.1%, 6055/17229) carried predominantly the CTX-M-15 variant (E. coli: 53.9%; K. pneumoniae: 80.0%) with highest incidence in Africa/Middle East (AfME). Among carbapenem-resistant (CR) E. coli (1.1%, 217/20047) and Enterobacter cloacae (3.8%, 259/6866), NDMs were predominant (E. coli in AfME: 62.5%; E. cloacae in Asia Pacific: 59.7%). CR K. pneumoniae (13.3%, 2299/17 229) and P. aeruginosa (20.3%, 4187/20 643) carried predominantly KPC (30.9%) and VIM (14.7%), respectively, with highest frequency in Latin America. Among ESBL-positive Enterobacterales, susceptibility to ceftazidime/avibactam (>90.0%) and amikacin (>85.0%) was higher than to piperacillin/tazobactam (>45.0%) and ciprofloxacin (>7.4%). In CR Enterobacterales, susceptibility to amikacin (>54.0%) and ceftazidime/avibactam (>31.0%) was higher than to ciprofloxacin (>2.7%) and piperacillin/tazobactam (>0.5%). CR P. aeruginosa similarly demonstrated higher susceptibility to amikacin (63.4%) and ceftazidime/avibactam (61.9%) than to ciprofloxacin (26.2%) and piperacillin/tazobactam (25.3%).

Conclusions

Varied distribution of resistance genotypes across regions among ESBL-positive Enterobacterales and CR Enterobacterales and P. aeruginosa provide crucial insights on major resistance mechanisms and trends observed in recent years. Continued surveillance is warranted for monitoring global dissemination and resistance.
Heritability of beef cow metabolizable energy for maintenance
Authors: Freetly Harvey C , Jacobs Devin R , Thallman R Mark , Snelling Warren M , Kuehn Larry A
Published: May 2023

Most of the metabolizable energy that a cow uses during a production year is for maintenance; however, less is known about the heritability of maintenance compared to other traits that can be measured directly. Feed intake is a heritable trait in the mature cow and most of the feed consumed is used for maintenance. We hypothesized that maintenance energy was a heritable trait. Individual feed intake was measured for 84 or 85 d on 5 yr old pregnant cows (N = 887) from a pedigreed population of cattle that represent prominent breeds in the United States. Phenotypic mean (± SD) values were 654 ± 68 kg for cow body weight, 0.21 ± 0.24 kg/d for average daily gain, and 175 ± 17 d for midpoint fetal age. Dry matter intake averaged (± SD) 10.84 ± 1.41 kg/d. Metabolizable energy for maintenance was estimated by subtracting the metabolizable energy used for conceptus growth and tissue accretion from metabolizable energy intake. Metabolizable energy for maintenance averaged (± SD) 139 ± 18 ME kcal/d/BW kg0.75 and had a heritability of 0.31 ± 0.11. Cows have a moderate heritability for maintenance suggesting an opportunity for selection.
“Want” versus “Need”: How Linguistic Framing Influences Responses to Crowdfunding Appeals
Authors: Su Lei , Sengupta Jaideep , Li Yiwei , Chen Fangyuan
Published: May 2023

This research uses a crowdfunding context to examine when and why a simple difference in frame—using “want” versus “need” in the request—affects funders’ compliance with an appeal for contributions. Building on the semantic framing and psycholinguistics literature, we propose that using “want” (vs. “need”) signals that the fundraiser is a relatively less (vs. more) dependent person. This perception difference then exerts opposing effects on the two major forms of crowdfunding appeals. For reward-based appeals, in which fundraisers promise a return on contribution, funders have a for-profit (i.e., incentive-seeking) goal and are more willing to contribute to a less dependent fundraiser. In contrast, for donation-based appeals, in which no incentives are promised by the fundraisers, funders are primarily motivated by a nonprofit (i.e., helping) goal and are more willing to contribute to a fundraiser who is seen as more dependent on help. Therefore, we predict that a “want” (vs. “need”) frame is more effective in reward-based (vs. donation-based) crowdfunding. Results from two large-scale observational studies and four experiments support our predictions and also illuminate the underlying mechanisms. Collectively, the findings contribute to the literature on semantic framing and crowdfunding and also offer practical implications for fundraisers, marketers, and policymakers.
No evidence of inbreeding depression despite a historical severe bottleneck in the endangered Bermuda petrel (Pterodroma cahow)
Authors: Afonso Rita O , Pina-Martins Francisco , Friesen Vicki , Sun Zhengxin , Campioni Letizia , Madeiros Jeremy , Silva Mónica C
Published: May 2023

The Bermuda petrel Pterodroma cahow is an island endemic seabird that belongs to the Procellariiformes, one of the most endangered orders of birds. Historical records suggest a significant population size decline following human settlement in Bermuda, bringing the species to near extinction. Since the 1950s, the population has been recovering aided by the implementation of an ongoing conservation plan. However, it still faces several threats, and negative genetic effects resulting from that drastic decline are to be expected, including inbreeding and genetic drift. We studied genetic diversity and levels of inbreeding, and their effects on individual fitness and mating choice. We also tested for a genetic signature of the recent demographic bottleneck. For this, we analyzed variation in thousands of nuclear single-nucleotide polymorphisms derived from double digest restriction site-associated DNA sequencing and 1 mitochondrial gene (cytochrome oxidase I). The results revealed that the Bermuda petrel suffered a recent genetic bottleneck and shows low mitochondrial diversity compared with other petrel species. Conversely, nuclear diversity was similar to that of other endangered petrels. Inbreeding levels were not high overall, although some individuals were highly inbred. However, we found no evidence that individual inbreeding or relatedness between mates affected hatching success, or that mate choice is influenced by kinship in this very small population.
The Quadrilemma: Appointing Adjudicators in Future Investor–State Dispute Settlement
Authors: Langford Malcolm , Behn Daniel , Malaguti Maria Chiara
Published: May 2023

Concern with the selection and appointment of arbitrators has been central in the ‘legitimacy crisis’ surrounding investor–state dispute settlement (ISDS). The regime has been criticized for the outsized role of litigating parties in appointment, absence of transparency in the appointment procedure, potential for conflicts of interests, lack of diversity, and little emphasis on public international law competence. However, attempts to reform the selection and appointment of adjudicators involve confronting dilemmas, requiring trade-offs between different normative values. We therefore introduce a quadrilemma that captures the underlying values of independence, accountability, diversity, and procedural fairness that actors often seek to realize through adjudicatory design. We then set out seven idealized selection and appointment reform options under discussion in the ISDS reform process at UN Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) (from incremental reform through to new permanent mechanisms and removal of ISDS). The quadrilemma is employed to analyse their advantages and disadvantages of each model. In light of empirical and doctrinal evidence, it is clear that some reform options are more likely than others to optimize the quadrilemma. However, the effects are often conditional and sometimes there is a need for accompanying mechanisms.
Modelling the Diffusion of the Deterrent Effects of Competition Policy
Authors: Dierx Adriaan , Ilzkovitz Fabienne , Pataracchia Beatrice , Pericoli Filippo
Published: May 2023

Through its competition policy interventions, the European Commission not only addresses infringements of EU competition law by the firms directly involved but also deters possible future anticompetitive behaviour by these firms and other market players. The present paper associates deterrence with the diffusion of information about the competition authority’s interventions to market players. In the mixed-influence diffusion model developed below, competition policy interventions act as an external signal sent to market players. Interactions between market players, in particular through legal counsels and law firms, further propagate the interventions’ deterrent effects. The focus of the model simulations is on interventions by the European Commission. The parameters of the mixed-influence diffusion model are calibrated using survey-based information on the order of magnitude of the deterrent effects of competition policy interventions and an assessment of the reputation of the European Commission as an enforcer of EU competition rules. On this basis, estimates of the deterrent effect of each individual intervention by the European Commission can be obtained. In addition, the sensitivity of the deterrent effects of competition policy interventions to the reputation of the competition authority and to the importance of interactions between market participants is analysed.
Fatigue in Children and Adolescents: A Population-Based Longitudinal Study on Fatigue and Chronic Pain
Authors: Sommer Ariane , Grothus Susanne , Claus Benedikt B , Stahlschmidt Lorin , Wager Julia
Published: May 2023

Objective

There are limited data on the prevalence and stability of fatigue in pediatrics, particularly among youth with chronic pain. Little is known about longitudinal effects of fatigue on health outcomes such as sleep quality, psychological distress, Health-Related Quality of Life, and chronic pain.

Methods

A community-based sample of N = 1276 students (9–17 years; 52% female; 30.3% with chronic pain) from 3 schools was screened at 2 measurement points 3 months apart. Prevalence and stability of fatigue were examined. Longitudinal analyses regarding fatigue and health outcomes were run using repeated measures correlations. The impact of change in fatigue on pain progression was analyzed using multilevel linear models.

Results

In the total community sample, 4.4% reported severe fatigue symptoms. The prevalence of severe fatigue was significantly higher in students with chronic pain (11.4%) compared to those without (1.3%). Fatigue symptoms persisted for several months, worsening of symptoms was more common and improvement less common in children with chronic pain. Sleep, psychological distress, and Health-Related Quality of Life were significantly associated with fatigue across both measurement points (rs = |0.16–0.44|), with no significant differences in the strength of correlations between children with and without chronic pain (ps > .05). There was a significant interaction between change in fatigue and courses of pain intensity and functional impairment.

Conclusions

Fatigue is highly prevalent, particularly in youth with chronic pain. The negative association of fatigue with health outcomes, and its impact on the course of pain, require early identification and treatment of those affected to prevent negative long-term consequences.
Predicting the effect of pharmacist’s communication with patients: medical communication analysis using facial responses
Authors: Miyagi Yukina , Gocho Saori , Yamaguchi Naoko , Miyachi Yuka , Nakayama Chika , Okada Shoshiro , Oshima Taeyuki
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To provide patient-centred care, psychological knowledge, and skills are necessary for pharmaceutical communication. Acquisition of these communication skills is closely related to patient comprehension. Therefore, to improve pharmacist’s communication skills, pharmacist need to learn the characteristics of their medication instructions, such as posture, facial expressions, eye contact, nodding, and more. For the analysis of medical communication, there is a rating scale, functional analysis, and others. However, these methods may not match the actual emotions due to their analysis skills and the psychological stress of the patients. In this study, we examined the methods to evaluate patient-pharmacist communication using emotion recognition AI software, which recognises emotions from facial expressions.

Methods

With the cooperation of six simulated patients (SP) and eight pharmacists, we recorded the SP’s facial expressions during medication instruction. The facial expression video was analysed using emotion recognition AI, which can obtain emotion values (anger, contempt, disgust, fear, joy, sadness, surprise, and engagement). We compared the emotion of the extracted peaks with the feedback and calculated the emotion match rate.

Key findings

As a result, 33% of the emotions matched in the peak and feedback. This result indicates that emotion recognition AI cannot capture every feedback emotion. However, in joy, the result was not affected by engagement, and the match rate between peak and feedback was high.

Conclusions

In the future, emotion recognition AI will allow us to assess the effects of communication skills of the pharmacists on the psychological state of the patients more objectively and noninvasively.
Extended biosynthesis of rhamnolipid by immobilized Pseudomonas aeruginosa USM-AR2 cells in a fluidized bed bioreactor
Authors: Zulkhifli Nur Ardhani Mohammed , Solong Dewi Rohayuh , Mohd Yahya Ahmad Ramli , Noh Nur Asshifa Md
Published: May 2023

This study aims to evaluate rhamnolipid production by immobilized Pseudomonas aeruginosa USM-AR2 cells using waste cooking oil (WCO) as the carbon source. P. aeruginosa USM-AR2 cells were entrapped in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-alginate hydrogel beads. The performance of entrapped cells was compared with free cells in shake flasks before cultivation in a custom-designed fluidized bed reactor (FBR). A mass of 1 g of wet cells entrapped in PVA-alginate hydrogel beads was successfully recycled three times in shake flasks at 200 rpm, producing between 0.66 to 1.34 g L−1 rhamnolipid after 120 h. Meanwhile, cultivation of entrapped cells in FBR with broth recirculation showed that the suitable hydrogel beads to medium ratio was 1:20 at an aeration rate of 0.5 vvm, producing between 0.77 to 1.58 g L−1 rhamnolipid and degrading 8.67 to 20.93g L−1 of waste cooking oil in 15 cycles of repeated batch cultivation. Entrapped P. aeruginosa USM-AR2 cells achieved a higher rhamnolipid production by 1.03-fold during cycle 3 in shake flasks and 1.19-fold during cycle 11 in an FBR, compared to free cells. These results show that entrapment enables the reusability of viable cells and maintains the stability of rhamnolipid production throughout the extended cultivation, increasing cell tolerance to perturbations in fermentation conditions.
Practices and Policies That Support Breastfeeding Among Military Women: A Systematic Review
Authors: Owens Bridget A , DiTomasso Diane
Published: May 2023

Background

Previous and limited assessments of breastfeeding in women serving on active duty in the U.S. military demonstrate varied and conflicting data regarding breastfeeding outcomes. Disparities exist within the military where enlisted service members have consistently lower rates of breastfeeding duration compared to officers. Yet, little is known about successful care practices and military policies that promote breastfeeding in military women. The aim of this systematic review is to examine care practices and military policies associated with increased breastfeeding initiation and duration among women serving in the U.S. military.

Materials and Methods

We searched Cochrane Database, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PubMed, and PsycInfo for studies published from 2000 to 2022 that included U.S. military personnel and that focused on care practices and military policies that support breastfeeding. Our search terms included (breastfeeding OR breastfeed AND military) and (lactation OR lactating AND military). We included randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental, cohort, cross-sectional, and other observational designs. We evaluated potential bias in studies using the Evidence Project Risk of Bias Tool and synthesized the overall evidence using the Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice Synthesis and Recommendations Tool.

Results

We included 14 studies that were independently reviewed by two authors. Breastfeeding initiation rates among military women were between 66% and 98%, and breastfeeding duration rates at 6 months ranged from 13% to 62%. In these studies, researchers examined various inpatient care practices (skin-to-skin care, timing of circumcision, and infant baths) (n = 3), care delivered by different types of providers (n = 3), group versus individual prenatal care (n = 2), breastfeeding education (n = 2), length of maternity leave (n = 2), and workplace support (n = 2). Skin-to-skin contact following delivery was positively associated with breastfeeding outcomes. There is insufficient evidence to determine if care by different types of medical providers, different types of prenatal care and education, timing of circumcision or baths, length of maternity leave, and workplace support influence breastfeeding outcomes.

Conclusion

Certain perinatal practices designed to encourage early skin-to-skin contact appear to improve breastfeeding initiation and duration among women serving in the U.S. military. However, there is an overall lack of quality evidence supporting effective practices and policies associated with increased breastfeeding initiation and duration in this population. Given the recent movement toward policy changes that support pregnant and postpartum service members across services, more research is needed to determine the impact of these and other practices and policies on breastfeeding rates, specifically among enlisted service members who have demonstrated lower breastfeeding rates than officers.
Chemotherapy Treatment Costs and Clinical Outcomes of Colon Cancer in the U.S. Military Health System’s Direct and Private Sector Care Settings
Authors: Eaglehouse Yvonne L , Seabury Seth A , Aljehani Mayada , Koehlmoos Tracey , Lee Jerry S H , Shriver Craig D , Zhu Kangmin
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Identifying low-value cancer care may be an important step in containing costs associated with treatment. Low-value care occurs when the medical services, tests, or treatments rendered do not result in clinical benefit. These may be impacted by care setting and patients’ access to care and health insurance. We aimed to study chemotherapy treatment and the cost paid by the Department of Defense (DoD) for treatment in relation to clinical outcomes among patients with colon cancer treated within the U.S. Military Health System’s direct and private sector care settings to better understand the value of cancer care.

Materials and Methods

A cohort of patients aged 18 to 64 years with primary colon cancer diagnosed between January 1, 1999, and December 31, 2014, were identified in the Military Cancer Epidemiology database. Multivariable time-dependent Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to assess the relationship between chemotherapy treatment and the cost paid by the DoD (in quartiles, Q) and the outcomes of cancer progression, cancer recurrence, and all-cause death modeled as adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). The Military Cancer Epidemiology data were approved for research by the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences’ Institutional Review Board.

Results

The study included 673 patients using direct care and 431 patients using private sector care. The median per patient chemotherapy costs in direct care ($111,202) were lower than in private sector care ($350,283). In direct care, higher chemotherapy costs were associated with an increased risk of any outcome but not with all-cause death. In private sector care, higher chemotherapy costs were associated with a higher risk of any outcome and with all-cause death (aHR, 2.67; 95% CI, 1.20-5.92 for Q4 vs. Q1).

Conclusions

The findings in the private sector may indicate low-value care in terms of the cost paid by the DoD for chemotherapy treatment and achieving desirable survival outcomes for patients with colon cancer in civilian health care. Comprehensive evaluations of value-based care among patients treated for other tumor types may be warranted.
Sensitivity study of chemistry in AGB outflows using chemical kinetics
Authors: Maes S , Van de Sande M , Danilovich T , De Ceuster F , Decin L
Published: May 2023

Asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars shed a significant amount of their mass in the form of a stellar wind, creating a vast circumstellar envelope (CSE). Owing to the ideal combination of relatively high densities and cool temperatures, CSEs serve as rich astrochemical laboratories. While the chemical structure of AGB outflows has been modelled and analysed in detail for specific physical setups, there is a lack of understanding regarding the impact of changes in the physical environment on chemical abundances. A systematic sensitivity study is necessary to comprehend the nuances in the physical parameter space, given the complexity of the chemistry. This is crucial for estimating uncertainties associated with simulations and observations. In this work, we present the first sensitivity study of the impact of varying outflow densities and temperature profiles on the chemistry. With the use of a chemical kinetics model, we report on the uncertainty in abundances, given a specific uncertainty on the physical parameters. In addition, we analyse the molecular envelope extent of parent species and compare our findings to observational studies. Mapping the impact of differences in physical parameters throughout the CSE on the chemistry is a strong aid to observational studies.
KMT-2022-BLG-0440Lb: A new q < 10−4 microlensing planet with the central-resonant caustic degeneracy broken
Authors: Zhang Jiyuan , Zang Weicheng , Jung Youn Kil , Yang Hongjing , Gould Andrew , Sumi Takahiro , Mao Shude , Dong Subo ,   (Leading Authors), Albrow Michael D , Chung Sun-Ju , Han Cheongho , Hwang Kyu-Ha , Ryu Yoon-Hyun , Shin In-Gu , Shvartzvald Yossi , Yee Jennifer C , Cha Sang-Mok , Kim Dong-Jin , Kim Hyoun-Woo , Kim Seung-Lee , Lee Chung-Uk , Lee Dong-Joo , Lee Yongseok , Park Byeong-Gon , Pogge Richard W ,   (The KMTNet Collaboration), Qian Qiyue , Liu Zhuokai , Maoz Dan , Penny Matthew T , Zhu Wei ,   (The MAP, and μFUN Follow-up Teams), Abe Fumio , Barry Richard , Bennett David P , Bhattacharya Aparna , Bond Ian A , Fujii Hirosane , Fukui Akihiko , Hamada Ryusei , Hirao Yuki , Silva Stela Ishitani , Itow Yoshitaka , Kirikawa Rintaro , Kondo Iona , Koshimoto Naoki , Matsubara Yutaka , Matsumoto Sho , Miyazaki Shota , Muraki Yasushi , Okamura Arisa , Olmschenk Greg , Ranc Clément , Rattenbury Nicholas J , Satoh Yuki , Suzuki Daisuke , Toda Taiga , Tomoyoshi Mio , Tristram Paul J , Vandorou Aikaterini , Yama Hibiki , Yamashita Kansuke ,   (The MOA Collaboration)
Published: May 2023

We present the observations and analysis of a high-magnification microlensing planetary event, KMT-2022-BLG-0440, for which the weak and short-lived planetary signal was covered by both the KMTNet survey and follow-up observations. The binary-lens models with a central caustic provide the best fits, with a planet/host mass ratio, q = 0.75–1.00 × 10−4 at 1σ. The binary-lens models with a resonant caustic and a brown-dwarf mass ratio are both excluded by Δχ2 > 70. The binary-source model can fit the anomaly well but is rejected by the ‘colour argument’ on the second source. From Bayesian analyses, it is estimated that the host star is likely a K or M dwarf located in the Galactic disc, the planet probably has a Neptune-mass, and the projected planet-host separation is $1.9^{+0.6}_{-0.7}$ or $4.6^{+1.4}_{-1.7}$  au, subject to the close/wide degeneracy. This is the third q < 10−4 planet from a high-magnification planetary signal (A ≳ 65). Together with another such planet, KMT-2021-BLG-0171Lb, the ongoing follow-up program for the KMTNet high-magnification events has demonstrated its ability to detect high-magnification planetary signals for q < 10−4 planets, which are challenging for the current microlensing surveys.
Intracluster light in the core of z ∼ 2 galaxy proto-clusters
Authors: Werner S V , Hatch N A , Matharu J , Gonzalez A H , Bahé Y M , Mei S , Noirot G , Wylezalek D
Published: May 2023

Intracluster light is thought to originate from stars that were ripped away from their parent galaxies by gravitational tides and galaxy interactions during the build up of the cluster. The stars from such interactions will accumulate over time, so semi-analytic models suggest that the abundance of intracluster stars is negligible in young proto-clusters at z∼ 2 and grows to around a quarter of the stellar mass in the oldest, most mature clusters. In contrast to these theoretical expectations, we report on the detection of intracluster light within two proto-clusters at z= 2 using deep HST images. We use the colour of the intracluster light to estimate its mass-to-light ratio in annuli around the brightest cluster galaxies (BCG), up to a radius of 100 kpc. We find that 54 ± 5 per cent and 71 ± 3 per cent of the stellar mass in these regions is located more than 10 kpc away from the BCGs in the two proto-clusters. This low concentration is similar to BCGs in lower redshift clusters, and distinct from other massive proto-cluster galaxies. This suggests that intracluster stars are already present within the core 100 kpc of proto-clusters. We compare these observations to the Hydrangea hydrodynamical galaxy cluster simulations and find that intracluster stars are predicted to be a generic feature of group-sized haloes at z= 2. These intracluster stars will gradually move further away from the BCG as the proto-cluster assembles into a cluster.
Preoperative neurocognitive function as an independent survival prognostic marker in primary glioblastoma
Authors: Liouta Evangelia , Koutsarnakis Christos , Komaitis Spyridon , Kalyvas Aristotelis V , Drosos Evangelos , García-Gómez Juan M , Juan-Albarracín Javier , Katsaros Vasileios , Stavrinou Lampis , Stranjalis George
Published: May 2023

Background

Aim of the present study is to investigate whether preoperative neurocognitive status is prognostically associated with overall survival (OS) in newly diagnosed glioblastoma (GBM) patients.

Methods

Ninety patients with dominant-hemisphere IDH-wild-type GBM were assessed by Mini Mental Status Exam (MMSE), Trail Making Test (TMT) A and B parts, and Control Word Association Test (COWAT) phonemic and semantic subtests. Demographics, Karnofsky Performance Scale, tumor parameters, type of surgery, and adjuvant therapy data were available for patients.

Results

According to Cox proportional hazards model the neurocognitive variables of TMT B (P < .01), COWAT semantic subset (P < .05), and the MMSE (P < .01) were found significantly associated with survival prediction. From all other factors, only tumor volume and operation type (debulking vs biopsy) showed a statistical association (P < .05) with survival prediction. Kaplan Meier Long rank test showed statistical significance (P < .01) between unimpaired and impaired groups for TMT B, with median survival for the unimpaired group 26 months and 10 months for the impaired group, for COWAT semantic (P < .01) with median survival 23 months and 12 months, respectively and for MMSE (P < .01) with medial survival 19 and 12 months respectively.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that neurocognitive status at baseline—prior to treatment—is an independent prognostic factor for OS in wild-type GBM patients, adding another prognostic tool to assist physicians in selecting the best treatment plan.
Surface defect detection competition with a bio-inspired vision sensor
Authors: Guo Anjing , Ma Jupo , Dian Renwei , Ma Fuyan , Wu Jinjian , Li Shutao
Published: May 2023

This paper reports the background and results of the Surface Defect Detection Competition with Bio-inspired Vision Sensor, as well as summarizes the champion solutions, current challenges and future directions.
Diabetes Mellitus and Tuberculosis Treatment Outcomes: Interaction Assessment Between Hyperglycemia and Human Immunodeficiency Virus in the State of Georgia, 2015–2020
Authors: Houck Kennedy , Chakhaia Tsira , Gorvetzian Sarah , Critchley Julia A , Schechter Marcos C , Magee Matthew J
Published: May 2023

Background

Diabetes mellitus and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are independent risk factors for poor outcomes among people with tuberculosis (TB). To date, information on the joint impact of diabetes and HIV on TB outcomes is limited. We aimed to estimate (1) the association between hyperglycemia and mortality and (2) the effect of joint exposure to diabetes and HIV on mortality.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study among people with TB in the state of Georgia between 2015 and 2020. Eligible participants were 16 or older, did not have a previous TB diagnosis, and were microbiologically confirmed or clinical cases. Participants were followed during TB treatment. Robust Poisson regression was used to estimate risk ratios for all-cause mortality. Interaction between diabetes and HIV was assessed on the additive scale using the attributable proportion and on the multiplicative scale with product terms in regression models.

Results

Of 1109 participants, 318 (28.7%) had diabetes, 92 (8.3%) were HIV positive, and 15 (1.4%) had diabetes and HIV. Overall, 9.8% died during TB treatment. Diabetes was associated with an increased risk of death among people with TB (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] = 2.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.62–4.13). We estimated that 26% (95% CI, −43.4% to 95.0%) of deaths among participants with diabetes mellitus and HIV were due to biologic interaction.

Conclusions

Diabetes alone and co-occurring diabetes and HIV were associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality during TB treatment. These data suggest a potential synergistic effect between diabetes and HIV.
An Experimental Study of the Effect of Pressure on the Formation of Chromite Deposits
Authors: Drage Natashia , Brenan James
Published: May 2023

Despite extensive research on massive chromitites, the mechanism(s) that form such anomalous chromite segregations remains uncertain. Recent work that considered a theoretical parental melt to the Critical Zone of the Bushveld Complex applied the MELTS thermodynamic model to propose that reduction of pressure upon magma ascent shifts the silicate-in temperature to lower values, such that chromite is the sole liquidus phase, resulting in formation of chromitites. Herein the effect of pressure on Cr solubility at constant fO2 relative to the FMQ buffer is evaluated through laboratory phase equilibrium experiments done at 0.1 MPa, 0.5 GPa, and 1 GPa. Two bulk compositions were employed: (1) the theoretical melt used in the MELTS modelling study and (2) B1, which is a widely accepted parental composition to the Bushveld Critical Zone. Experiments were conducted at 0.1 MPa by equilibrating compositions on Fe-Ir alloy wire loops from 1170–1300°C in a vertical-tube, gas-mixing furnace for 12–48 hours. Experiments at 0.5 GPa and 1 GPa were conducted with a piston-cylinder apparatus at 1230°C and 1280°C for 4–12 hours using Fe-Ir alloy and graphite-lined Pt capsules. Experiments show that the B1 composition reproduces phase equilibria and mineral compositions observed in the Bushveld whereas mineral compositions produced by the theoretical melt composition used in the MELTS modelling study are too Al-rich, excluding it as viable parental liquid. Results show no significant change in Cr content of the melt at chromite saturation with pressure at constant relative fO2. However, reduction of pressure can promote chromite crystallization, as the modal abundance and DCr(px/liq) of orthopyroxene decrease with pressure in experiments, increasing the availability of Cr for chromite crystallization. While a low-pressure interval of chromite-alone crystallization is plausible, results indicate that significant volumes of unusually Cr-enriched B1 magma would be required to produce the chromitites observed in the Bushveld by the pressure reduction mechanism.
Experimentally probing anomalous time evolution of a single photon
Authors: Okamoto Ryo , Cohen Eliahu
Published: May 2023

In quantum mechanics, a quantum system is irreversibly collapsed by a projective measurement. Hence, delicately probing the time evolution of a quantum system holds the key to understanding curious phenomena. Here, we experimentally explore an anomalous time evolution, where, illustratively, a particle disappears from a box and emerges in a different box, with a certain moment in which it can be found in neither of them. In this experiment, we directly probe this curious time evolution of a single photon by measuring up to triple-operator sequential weak values (SWVs) using a novel probeless scheme. The naive interpretation provided by single-operator weak values (WVs) seems to imply the “disappearance” and “re-appearance” of a photon as theoretically predicted. However, double- and triple-operator SWVs, representing temporal correlations between the aforementioned values, show that spatial information about the photon does not entirely vanish in the intermediate time. These results show that local values (in space and time) alone, such as single-operator WVs, cannot fully explain all types of quantum evolution in time—higher order correlations are necessary in general, shedding new light on time evolution in quantum mechanics. The probeless measurement technique proposed here for measuring multiple-operator WVs can be straightforwardly extended to study various other cases of curious quantum evolution in time.
Women Experts and Gender Bias in Political Media
Authors: Ozer Adam L
Published: May 2023

Widely held gender stereotypes present obstacles for women experts, who are generally evaluated less positively than equally qualified men across a range of fields. While audiences may view women as better equipped to handle certain feminine-stereotyped issues, Role Congruency Theory suggests that expert authority in politics may be incongruent with traditional feminine gender roles, leading to a subsequent backlash. Building upon the latter theory, I hypothesize that when cued to consider the expertise of a news source, the (in)congruence of gender-stereotyped roles will activate gender biases which increase the gap in evaluations and trust of women and men. Using selection experiments, I assess the relationship between domain-relevant expertise and gender biases across a range of gender-stereotyped issues. I find that women experts are rewarded less for additional expertise and punished more severely for a lack of expertise, exacerbating gender-based biases relative to the control. I find that this pattern is consistent across both masculine- and feminine-stereotyped issues, including issues that disproportionately impact women, such as women’s health care and the gender wage gap. The addition of competing partisan cues, however, overwhelms the influence of gender. The normative implications suggest women in the media often face an uphill battle to advocate for their interests on key issues that affect them even when they may have more direct relevant experience in addition to their qualifications.
Human ESC-derived vascular cells promote vascular regeneration in a HIF-1α dependent manner
Authors: Lei Jinghui , Jiang Xiaoyu , Huang Daoyuan , Jing Ying , Yang Shanshan , Geng Lingling , Yan Yupeng , Zheng Fangshuo , Cheng Fang , Zhang Weiqi , Belmonte Juan Carlos Izpisua , Liu Guang-Hui , Wang Si , Qu Jing
Published: May 2023

Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF-1α), a core transcription factor responding to changes in cellular oxygen levels, is closely associated with a wide range of physiological and pathological conditions. However, its differential impacts on vascular cell types and molecular programs modulating human vascular homeostasis and regeneration remain largely elusive. Here, we applied CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing of human embryonic stem cells and directed differentiation to generate HIF-1α-deficient human vascular cells including vascular endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), as a platform for discovering cell type-specific hypoxia-induced response mechanisms. Through comparative molecular profiling across cell types under normoxic and hypoxic conditions, we provide insight into the indispensable role of HIF-1α in the promotion of ischemic vascular regeneration. We found human MSCs to be the vascular cell type most susceptible to HIF-1α deficiency, and that transcriptional inactivation of ANKZF1, an effector of HIF-1α, impaired pro-angiogenic processes. Altogether, our findings deepen the understanding of HIF-1α in human angiogenesis and support further explorations of novel therapeutic strategies of vascular regeneration against ischemic damage.
Childhood secondhand smoke exposure and respiratory disease mortality among never-smokers: the Japan collaborative cohort study for evaluation of cancer risk
Authors: Kawachi Haruna , Teramoto Masayuki , Muraki Isao , Shirai Kokoro , Yamagishi Kazumasa , Tamakoshi Akiko , Iso Hiroyasu
Published: May 2023

Background

The main source of secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure during childhood occurs at home due to close family members who smoke. This study examined the association between childhood SHS exposure and the risk of respiratory disease mortality among non-smoking adults.

Methods

Data from 44 233 never-smoking Japanese men and women aged 40–79 years who participated in the JACC study between 1988 and 1990 were analyzed. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to calculate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals of respiratory disease mortality according to the number of smoking family members during childhood. Subdistribution HRs (SHRs) were calculated as a competing risk analysis.

Results

A total of 735 deaths from respiratory diseases were documented in a median follow-up of 19.2 years. Living with three or more smoking family members during childhood was associated with a higher risk of respiratory disease mortality in adulthood among women; multivariable SHR compared with participants with no family member smokers during childhood was 1.60 (1.01–2.54) for participants with three or more family members who smoked during their childhood.

Conclusions

SHS exposure from three or more family members during childhood was associated with an increased risk of respiratory disease-related mortality in adulthood.
Suicidal ideation and associated risk factors among COVID-19 patients who recovered from the first wave of the pandemic in Wuhan, China
Authors: Chen Xu , Dai Zhenwei , Fu Jiaqi , Si Mingyu , Jing Shu , Wu Yijin , Wang Hao , Huang Yiman , Cui Dan , Qu Yimin , Su Xiaoyou
Published: May 2023

Background

Symptoms of psychiatric, neurological, and physical illnesses with post-COVID syndrome could increase suicidal ideation (SI) and behavior in Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) survivors. However, information on the level of SI among COVID-19 survivors in China is still limited.

Aim

To assess the prevalence and risk factors of SI among COVID-19 survivors in Wuhan, China.

Design

The cross-sectional study was carried out among former COVID-19 patients in Jianghan District (Wuhan, China) from June 10 to July 25, 2021.

Methods

SI, fatigue, stigma, sleep disorder, resilience, peace of mind, and social support of the participants were measured by the SI-related item, Fatigue Scale (FS-14), short version of COVID-19 Stigma Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), The Peace of Mind Scale (PoM), The Resilience Style Questionnaire (RSQ) and two single separate items for measuring social support. Logistic regression was utilized to identify associated factors of SI. Mediation analysis was performed to assess the potential mechanisms between psychological factors and SI.

Results

A total of 1,297 participants were included in this study. 6.7% of them reported SI. Marriage (AOR = 0.389, P = 0.003) and peace of mind (AOR = 0.854, P < 0.001) were negatively associated with SI. History of psychological or emotional counseling before COVID-19 infection (AOR = 1.889, P = 0.049), fatigue (AOR = 1.110, P = 0.007), higher self-reported COVID-19 related stigma (AOR = 1.054, P = 0.003) and sleep disorder (AOR = 1.112, P = 0.001) were positively associated with SI.

Conclusions

Consideration should be taken into account to develop appropriate alleviating measures such as mindfulness-based cognitive therapy to reduce the rates of SI among COVID-19 survivors and improve their resilience to cope with the personal impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Vacancy Durations and Entry Wages: Evidence from Linked Vacancy–Employer–Employee Data
Authors: Mueller Andreas I , Osterwalder Damian , Zweimüller Josef , Kettemann Andreas
Published: May 2023

This article explores the relationship between the duration of a vacancy and the starting wage of a new job, using linked data on vacancies, the posting establishments, and the workers eventually filling the vacancies. The unique combination of large-scale, administrative worker, establishment, and vacancy data is critical for separating establishment- and job-level determinants of vacancy duration from worker-level heterogeneity. Conditional on observables, we find that vacancy duration is negatively correlated with the starting wage and its establishment component, with precisely estimated elasticities of −0.07 and −0.21, respectively. While the negative relationship is qualitatively consistent with search-theoretic models where firms use the wage as a recruiting device, these elasticities are small, suggesting that firms’ wage policies can account only for a small fraction of the variation in vacancy filling across establishments.