bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aspergillosis coinfection in patients with proven mucormycosis
Authors: Ra Sang Hyun , Kim Ji Yeun , Song Joon Seon , Jang Hyeon Mu , Chang Euijin , Bae Seongman , Jung Jiwon , Kim Min Jae , Chong Yong Pil , Lee Sang-Oh , Choi Sang-Ho , Kim Yang Soo , Kim Sung-Han
Published: August 2024

Although research on aspergillosis and mucormycosis confection is important to optimize antifungal therapy, data on this issue is scarce. Thus, we systematically investigated aspergillosis coinfection in patients with proven mucormycosis. Medical records of adult patients with proven mucormycosis whose formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue sections were available, in a tertiary hospital from August 2007 to July 2023 were retrospectively reviewed to assess coinfection with aspergillosis. We noted cultures of fungi from sterile and non-sterile sites and performed polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays on FFPE tissues to detect Aspergillus- and Mucorales-specific DNA. Sixty-seven patients with proven mucormycosis, including 12 (18%) with a positive culture of the mucormycosis agent from sterile site cultures, were enrolled. Fungal cultures from sterile and non-sterile sites revealed Aspergillus spp. growth in nine (13%) of the 67 patients, including two sterile and seven non-sterile cultures. The fungal PCR analysis from the FFPE sections was positive for Aspergillus-specific PCR in five (7%) and positive for both Aspergillus- and Mucorales-specific PCR results in eight (12%). Overall, 21 (31%) of the 67 patients with proven mucormycosis had microbiologic and/or molecular evidence of aspergillosis coinfection. Positive blood or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid galactomannan results were more common in the coinfection group (67% [14/21]) than in the mucormycosis group (37% [17/46], P = .024). No significant difference in mortality between the two groups was observed. Approximately one-third of patients with proven mucormycosis exhibited molecular and/or microbiologic evidence of aspergillosis coinfection. Further research is needed to identify patients with aspergillosis and mucormycosis coinfections, for optimal antifungal therapy.
Correlations of methyl formate (CH3OCHO), dimethyl ether (CH3OCH3), and ketene (H2CCO) in high-mass star-forming regions
Authors: Li Chuanshou , Qin Sheng-Li , Liu Tie , Liu Sheng-Yuan , Tang Mengyao , Liu Hong-Li , Chen Li , Li Xiaohu , Xu Fengwei , Zhang Tianwei , Liu Meizhu , Shi Hongqiong , Wu Yuefang
Published: August 2024

We present high-spatial resolution (0.7–1.0 arcsec) submillimeter observations of continuum and molecular lines of CH$_{3}$OCHO, CH$_{3}$OCH$_{3}$, and H$_{2}$CCO toward 11 high-mass star-forming regions using the Atacama large millimetre/submillimetre array (ALMA). A total of 19 separate cores from nine high-mass star-forming regions are found to be line-rich, including high-, intermediate-, and low-mass line-rich cores. The three molecules are detected in these line-rich cores. We map the emission of CH$_{3}$OCHO, CH$_{3}$OCH$_{3}$, and H$_{2}$CCO in nine high-mass star-forming regions. The spatial distribution of the three molecules is very similar and concentrated in the areas of intense continuum emission. We also calculate the rotation temperatures, column densities, and abundances of CH$_{3}$OCHO, CH$_{3}$OCH$_{3}$, and H$_{2}$CCO under the local thermodynamic equilibrium assumption. The abundances relative to H$_{2}$ and CH$_{3}$OH, and line widths of the three molecules are significantly correlated. The abundances relative to H$_{2}$, temperatures, and line widths of the three molecules tend to be higher in cores with higher mass and outflows detected. The possible chemical links of the three molecules are discussed.
Seeing the invisible: Tools to teach and study plant transcriptional responses
Authors: Baral Bikash , Riihelä Saku , Kemppinen Jasmin , Sierla Maija , Brosché Mikael
Published: August 2024

Reporter gene-expressing plants show promoter activity, the stability of transgene expression, and are suitable tools to teach students about plant biotechnology and plant–environment interaction.
Changing of the guard: the delicate jurisdiction of trustee removal and the balance of power
Authors: Henson Jessica , Dowley Clementine
Published: August 2024

In this article, Jessica Henson and Clementine Dowley of Payne Hicks Beach LLP consider recent developments in the jurisdiction of trustee removal. Noting the multiplicity of ways in which a trustee’s office can be challenged, the ever-present threat of costs sanctions and the potential for removal to be used to thwart a trustee’s discretion, the authors reflect on the value of consistent trusteeship and whether, in that context, there is a risk that trustee removals (whether forced or voluntary) are being effected too easily.
A Case Series of Primary Cutaneous Sarcomatoid Carcinoma With Aberrant Smooth Muscle Actin Expression: A Clinicopathologic and Immunophenotypic Study
Authors: Shafi Saba , Gru Alejandro A. , Roman Jorge , Maupin Jessica , Plaza Jose A.
Published: August 2024

Primary cutaneous sarcomatoid squamous cell carcinoma can show significant histologic overlap with other malignant spindle cell tumors, posing a diagnostic challenge. Even with a wide array of immunohistochemical markers, the exact line of differentiation can be a challenge to identify in some cases. The picture is further complicated by the aberrant expression of myofibroblastic markers [such as smooth muscle actin (SMA)] by these neoplasms, along with a concomitant loss of conventional epithelial markers. The histologic differential diagnoses of primary cutaneous sarcomatoid squamous cell carcinoma include desmoplastic melanoma, leiomyosarcoma, and spindle cell atypical fibroxanthoma/pleomorphic dermal sarcoma (AFX/PDS). A retrospective analysis of 16 cases of PCSSCCs with SMA expression, obtained from large academic institutions, was performed and is summarized below. The tumors were in the scalp (6 cases), arm (4 cases), leg (2 cases), face (2 cases), hand (1 case), and neck (1 case). Immunohistochemical studies were performed in all cases with the following antibodies: AE1/AE3, CAM 5.2, MNF-116, p63, p40, CK5/6, S-100, SOX10, SMA, desmin, calponin, H-caldesmon, CD10, CD68, CD163, and CD34. Histopathologically, all cases were classified as high-grade malignant poorly differentiated neoplasms. Tumors were characterized by an infiltrative neoplasm that involved the entire reticular dermis and, in 7 cases, the subcutaneous fat. Three cases were associated with a well-differentiated squamous cell component. The neoplasms were composed of atypical spindle and epithelioid cells arranged in long and intersecting fascicles. All neoplasms were positive for epithelial markers (at least 1 marker), and all cases were strongly positive for SMA. Our data emphasize the diagnostic utility of multiple epithelial markers as a first screening tool in the detection and workup of malignant cutaneous sarcomatoid neoplasms. Awareness of SMA expression in these tumors can complicate its diagnosis, and it is important to recognize this aberrant immunophenotype to facilitate definitive diagnosis and avoid misdiagnosis.
Effects of Social Isolation and Loneliness on Heart Failure Self-care
Authors: Platz Katherine , Cavanagh Casey E. , Metzger Maureen , Park Linda G. , Howie-Esquivel Jill
Published: August 2024

Background

Patients with heart failure (HF) who engage in effective HF self-care have better quality of life, and lower risks of all-cause and HF-related hospital readmission and mortality. It is unclear whether social isolation and loneliness, which are prevalent among patients with HF and known to affect other self-care behaviors, can predict HF self-care.

Objective

The aim was to explore the relationship between social isolation, loneliness, and HF self-care.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional secondary analysis (n = 49) of the GEtting iNTo Light Exercise for HF randomized controlled trial, a 6-month home-based live group gentle exercise intervention for patients with HF. Measures included the following: 6-item Lubben Social Network Scale for social isolation, Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Social Isolation survey for loneliness, Self-Care of Heart Failure Index, and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Depression survey. Multiple linear regression modeling was used to examine the relationships of 4 HF self-care processes to social isolation and loneliness, adjusting for depression and grouping (control group or intervention group).

Results

Scores indicating less social isolation predicted higher self-care maintenance (B = 0.937, P = .015), monitoring (B = 0.799, P = .041), and management (B = 1.812, P < .001). Loneliness did not predict HF self-care.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study to predict HF self-care using distinct measures for social isolation and loneliness. Patients who were less socially isolated engaged in better HF self-care; loneliness had no relationship with HF self-care. Prospective studies are needed to investigate causal relationships between social isolation and HF-self-care engagement to determine the effect on outcomes such as hospital readmission and mortality.
Results of Laser-assisted Closure (SiLaC) Surgery in Pilonidal Sinus Disease: Factors Associated With Success
Authors: Yildirim Murat , Koca Bulent
Published: August 2024

Background:

Pilonidal sinus treatment with sinus laser-assisted closure (SiLaC) method has produced promising results in a limited number of studies conducted in recent years. We aimed to examine the efficacy and safety of this method in a tertiary care training hospital to reveal the factors affecting failure and to share our first experiences.

Methods:

All adult patients treated with this procedure between March 2020 and December 2023 were included in the study. Demographic and clinical data, complications, and recurrence rates of the patients were compared. Univariate analysis was performed between recovered and non-recovered patients to find the factors influencing successful treatment. Logistic regression analysis was performed using significant factors in the single variable analysis.

Results:

The study cohort consisted of 64 patients. The mean follow-up period was 17.0±8.06 months (range: 3 to 36), and the mean time for return to work was 2.4±2.78 days (range: 0 to 14). Our recovery rate was 85.9%. The complication rate was 14%, and the majority (50%) were wound infections. High BMI and advanced disease were significant factors for recurrence in the comparison of patients with successful and unsuccessful treatment (P<0.01 and 0.013, respectively). The same situation persisted in multivariate analysis (P=0.026, 95% CI: 1.36-7.81, and P=0.004, 95% CI: 1.36-1.78, respectively). In the ROC Curve analysis for BMI, the cutoff point was 29 (sensitivity: 66.9%, specificity: 77.4%, AUC 0.809). Other parameters were not significant (P>0.05).

Conclusions:

The SiLaC procedure may be the treatment of choice for pilonidal sinus disease as a safe and effective method with mild complications and reasonable recurrence rates. The success rate decreased in obese patients and patients with advanced disease.
David Smith. 26 November 1935—15 February 2023
Authors: Španěl Patrik , Risby Terence H.
Published: August 2024

David Smith was an exceptional chemical physicist who greatly contributed to the field of molecular science by inventing novel techniques and instruments to study gas-phase reactions of electrons and ions. These reactions are important for understanding the atmospheres and interstellar media. One of his inventions was the flowing afterglow Langmuir probe apparatus, which was used to collect data on electron attachment and electron–ion recombination. Another technique he developed was the selected ion flow tube (SIFT), which helped to understand thousands of ion–molecule reactions. This innovative technique has become the foundation of a new analytical method called SIFT-MS, which is currently used in various industries such as semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, as well as in biological and medical research.
Dynamics and bifurcations in genetic circuits with fibration symmetries
Authors: Stewart Ian , Reis Saulo D. S. , Makse Hernán A.
Published: August 2024

Circuit building blocks of gene regulatory networks (GRN) have been identified through the fibration symmetries of the underlying biological graph. Here, we analyse analytically six of these circuits that occur as functional and synchronous building blocks in these networks. Of these, the lock-on, toggle switch, Smolen oscillator, feed-forward fibre and Fibonacci fibre circuits occur in living organisms, notably
Escherichia coli
; the sixth, the repressilator, is a synthetic GRN. We consider synchronous steady states determined by a fibration symmetry (or balanced colouring) and determine analytic conditions for local bifurcation from such states, which can in principle be either steady-state or Hopf bifurcations. We identify conditions that characterize the first bifurcation, the only one that can be stable near the bifurcation point. We model the state of each gene in terms of two variables: mRNA and protein concentration. We consider all possible ‘admissible’ models—those compatible with the network structure—and then specialize these general results to simple models based on Hill functions and linear degradation. The results systematically classify using graph symmetries the complexity and dynamics of these circuits, which are relevant to understand the functionality of natural and synthetic cells.
CYP168A1 from Pseudomonas aeruginosa may not be involved in the hydroxylation of medium chain-length fatty acids
Authors: Bonaldo Chiara , Thomas Nerissa E. , Price Claire Louise
Published: August 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative opportunistic pathogen and the main cause of chronic lung infections in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Its resistance to multiple antibiotics poses a significant challenge in eradicating the bacteria from CF’s patients airways. Consequently, the World Health Organization (WHO) has classified it as priority health concern, underscoring the urgent need to identify new antibiotic targets. While the function of cytochrome P450 (P450) enzymes in P. aeruginosa remains unclear, these enzymes are involved in fatty acid metabolism in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a closely related bacterium, aiding its survival and growth in the lung. This suggests that P. aeruginosa P450 enzymes might contribute to CF airway colonization and the lung destruction by hydroxylating fatty acids in the lung surfactant. Previous research has demonstrated that CYP168A1, a P450 enzyme in P. aeruginosa, can biochemically hydroxylate fatty acids. To explore the biological role of CYP168A1, we monitored changes in gene expression after fatty acids exposure using RT-PCR. Our analyses revealed no change in CYP168A1 expression, suggesting that CYP168A1 is not involved in hydroxylation of medium-chain length fatty acids. Further knock-out analyses are essential to elucidate the biological role of CYP168A1, and its potential as an antimicrobial target against P. aeruginosa.
A simple method for methanol quantification in Spirits using UV Visible Spectroscopy and FTIR
Authors: Shadrack Ronick Spenly , Kotra Krishna Kumar , Tari Daniel , Tabi Hancy , Botleng Jacinta , Kelep Rolina , Regenvanu Ladyshia
Published: August 2024

Although standards methods of food safety assessment are important, these methods are expensive and requires intensive work and time. Quality assessment for high alcohol in spirits is still a challenged for industries in developing states due to lack of financial support and technical assistance. Ultra violet visible spectroscopy (UV VIS) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) offers the low cost alternative testing methods that are affordable with a short turnaround time for dissemination of results. In this work, methanol content in ethanol was assessed in two approaches using UV VIS and FTIR spectroscopy. For UV VIS method, Potassium dichromate was used as the chromogenic reagent. In FTIR, calibration curve was built by increasing methanol ration from 0 to 40% (m V-1) at the expense of ethanol while keeping deionised water (DO) constant at 5% (m V-1) concentration. This helps gauge the change in methanol concentration relative to ethanol. Results of analysis using UV VIS showed a strong negative correlation for Methanol concentration and absorbance value at UV region from 900 to 1100 cm-1(r = 98.00, RMSE = 0.023) relative to increasing ethanol concentration. A strong peak was observed for methanol concentration at spectral region of 970 cm-1which is related to the methanoic acid C-O bond. The FTIR spectra region at 900 to 1050 cm-1was used for observing methanol concentration with absorbance. A strong correlation was established from spectral region of 1010 cm-1 to 1026 cm-1, enabling quantification of methanol (r= 0.99, RMSEC = 0.55). Methanol peak was observed at 1020 cm-1region of the spectrum. A set of experimental repetition was made to determine limit of detection (LOD) for UV VIS and FTIR methods which was observed at 0.29 and 0.5 % (m V-1), respectively. The limit of quantification was 0.89 and 1.5 % (m V-1) for UV VIS and FTIR respectively. This study has reaffirmed the utilisation of UV VIS and FTIR as considerable alternative method for quality control of high alcohol in distilled spirits.
Documented transboundary transmission of mpox between the Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Hasivirwe Vakaniaki Emmanuel , Kinganda-Lusamaki Eddy , Merritt Sydney , Kasongo Francois , Malembi Emile , Lunyanga Lygie , Linsuke Sylvie , Halbrook Megan , Kalthan Ernest , Pukuta Elisabeth , Amuri Aziza Adrienne , Makangara Cigolo Jean Claude , Lumembe Raphael , Kabamba Gabriel , Anta Yvon , Bolunza Pierrot , Kanda Innocent , Nganzobo Raoul , Kalonji Thierry , Nsio Justus , Matoka Patricia , Mwamba Dieudonné , Ngandu Christian , Shaw Souradet Y. , Shongo Robert , Madinga Joule , Boum Yap , Liesenborghs Laurens , Delaporte Eric , Ayouba Ahidjo , Low Nicola , Ahuka Mundeke Steve , Hensley Lisa E. , Muyembe Tamfum Jean-Jacques , Nakoune Emmanuel , Peeters Martine , Hoff Nicole A. , Kindrachuk Jason , Rimoin Anne W. , Mbala-Kingebeni Placide
Published: August 2024

Four confirmed mpox cases in South Ubangi province, Democratic Republic of the Congo, were linked to documented transboundary transmission from Central African Republic. Viral genome sequencing shows that the MPXV sequences belong to subclade Ia. This demonstrates the borderless nature of mpox and highlights the need for vigilant regional surveillance.
Improving prenatal detection of congenital heart disease with a scalable composite analysis of six fetal cardiac ultrasound biometrics
Authors: Reddy Aneela , Rizvi Sara , Moon-Grady Anita J. , Arnaout Rima
Published: August 2024

Although screening of prenatal congenital heart disease (CHD) has improved over the last decade, the diagnosis rate can still be as low as 40%. The axial 4 chamber (A4C) is the most reliably obtained cardiac view in the fetal screening ultrasound but alone only has a maximum clinical sensitivity of 50-60%, particularly in large multicenter studies in low-risk populations. Standard biometrics, like cardiac axis (CA), cardiothoracic ratio (CTR) and cardiac chamber fractional area change (FAC), have individually been shown to be useful for CHD screening and can all be obtained from A4C alone. However, these biometrics are vastly underutilized because they are time-consuming to extract and difficult to interpret all at once. We hypothesized that using six standard biometrics in combination can improve complex CHD screening versus any one biometric alone. K-means clustering was performed to segregate the patterns of heart measurements into clusters. Sensitivity and specificity for CHD was 87% and 75%, respectively. Here, we demonstrate that a composite of six standard biometric has better sensitivity and accuracy for CHD than any one biometric alone and better than A4C visual assessment.
Comparative Analysis of Adverse Event Reporting on Reddit and the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS)
Authors: Shoults Catherine C. , Abulez Dana , Nowak Matthew , Bledsoe Alasiah , Dormer Nathan , Garza Maryam Y. , Bona Jonathan , Powell Thomas , Hayes Corey J.
Published: August 2024

This study explores the potential of Reddit as a pharmacovigilance data source by comparing its adverse event reports related to mental health drugs with those from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). Using data mining techniques, we annotated 1,000 Reddit posts to identify drug-adverse event pairs, which were then compared to FAERS data. Significant differences were noted in the frequency and types of adverse events reported on each platform. For instance, Reddit showed higher reports of sexual dysfunction and cognitive disorders for certain drugs, which were less frequently reported in FAERS. This disparity suggests that Reddit could capture a different demographic or more candid discussions, potentially influenced by its pseudonymous nature. The findings indicate that social media platforms like Reddit can provide valuable insights into real-world drug effects, complementing traditional pharmacovigilance systems. This study highlights the need for further research to integrate social media data to enhance drug safety monitoring.
Time to death and its predictors among neonates with perinatal asphyxia at a tertiary hospital in southern Ethiopia
Authors: Bekele Jenenu Getu , Kara Niguse Mekonnen , Kerbo Amene Abebe , Urkashe Tadiwos Utalo
Published: August 2024

Background

Perinatal asphyxia (PNA) remains a leading, yet preventable, cause of neonatal death, disproportionately affecting low-resource settings like Ethiopia. Despite its significance, data on the burden and factors influencing survival among asphyxiated neonates in this region are scarce. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the time to death and its associated predictors in this vulnerable population.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at Wolaita Sodo University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in southern Ethiopia. Medical records of 404 neonates diagnosed with PNA between January 2019 and December 2023 were reviewed. The study followed these neonates for a total of 2889 person-days to assess their survival outcomes. Kaplan-Meier analysis estimated the median time to death, and a Weibull regression model identified independent predictors of mortality.

Results

The findings revealed the incidence density of PNA-related mortality of 30.8 per 1,000 person-days (95% CI: 25.0-37.9). Notably, nearly 72% of deaths occurred within the first critical week of life, with a median survival time of 20 days. The multivariable Weibull regression analysis identified several factors significantly associated with shorter time to death at p 0.05. These are presence of meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF), low fifth-minute Apgar score (less than 7), birth weight greater than 4000gm, low admission oxygen saturation level, treatment with anticonvulsant, the use of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) for oxygen administration, and need for resuscitation with chest compression.

Conclusion

This study highlights the significant burden of PNA-related mortality, particularly during the first week of life, in a resource-limited setting. The findings underscore the urgent need for improved PNA management strategies. Furthermore, specific treatment decisions, including the use of anticonvulsants, oxygen therapy methods, and resuscitation techniques, emerged as crucial factors influencing survival outcomes. These results call for further investigation into these specific interventions and potentially revising PNA management protocols to optimize the chances of survival for asphyxiated neonates in low-resource settings like Ethiopia.
FhaA plays a key role in mycobacterial polar elongation and asymmetric growth
Authors: Rossello Jessica , Rivera Bernardina , Fialho Maximiliano Anzibar , Augusto Ingrid , Gil Magdalena , Forrellad Marina Andrea , Bigi Fabiana , Taño Azalia Rodríguez , Urdániz Estefanía , Piuri Mariana , Miranda Kildare , Wehenkel Anne Marie , Alzari Pedro M , Malacrida Leonel , Durán Rosario
Published: August 2024

Mycobacteria, including pathogens likeMycobacterium tuberculosis, exhibit unique growth patterns and cell envelope structures that challenge our understanding of bacterial physiology. This study sheds light on FhaA, a conserved protein inMycobacteriales, revealing its pivotal role in coordinating cell envelope biogenesis and asymmetric growth.

The elucidation of the FhaA interactome in living mycobacterial cells reveals its participation in the protein network orchestrating cell envelope biogenesis and cell elongation/division. By manipulating FhaA levels, we uncovered its influence on cell morphology, cell envelope organization, and the localization of peptidoglycan biosynthesis machinery. Notably,fhaAdeletion disrupted the characteristic asymmetric growth of mycobacteria, highlighting its importance in maintaining this distinctive feature.

Our findings position FhaA as a key regulator in a complex protein network, orchestrating the asymmetric distribution and activity of cell envelope biosynthetic machinery. This work not only advances our understanding of mycobacterial growth mechanisms but also identifies FhaA as a potential target for future studies on cell envelope biogenesis and bacterial growth regulation. These insights into the fundamental biology of mycobacteria may pave the way for novel approaches to combat mycobacterial infections addressing the ongoing challenge of diseases like tuberculosis in global health.
A non-catalytic function of a disintegrin and metalloprotease 10 determines hepatic progenitor cell fate
Authors: Wöhner Birte , Müller Miryam , Pearen Michael , Köhn-Gaone Julia , Gorki Luise , Philippsen Rebecca , Gogoi-Tiwari Jully , John Clara , Scheja Ludger , Krause Freia , Halwachs Birgit , Barikbin Roja , Schwinge Dorothee , Rose-John Stefan , Saftig Paul , Schramm Christoph , Olynyk John K. , Heeren Jörg , Tirnitz-Parker Janina EE , Ramm Grant A , Schmidt-Arras Dirk
Published: August 2024

During chronic liver disease, hepatocytes may undergo proliferative arrest, leading to the activation, expansion and differentiation of hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs). Here we observe that expression of A Disintegrin And Metalloprotease (ADAM) 10 is increased in human and murine chronic liver disease correlating with HPC expansion. We report that proteolytic processing of ADAM10 by ADAM9 and generation of an ADAM10 intracellular domain that translocates to the nucleus, rather than ADAM10 enzymatic activity is essential for the regulation of HPC gene expression and differentiation. Genetic loss of ADAM10in vitroandin vivoenhances stemness gene expression, increases the accumulation of undifferentiated HPCs and promotes the formation of liver fibrosis. Taken together, we demonstrate that a non-catalytic function of ADAM10 is an essential regulator of HPC fate and HPC-driven regeneration. Our data ascribe a non-proteolytic function to ADAM proteases which may be a general concept in adult tissue stem cells.
Extended quantum process tomography of logical operations on an encoded bosonic qubit
Authors: Kervinen Mikael , Ahmed Shahnawaz , Kudra Marina , Eriksson Axel , Quijandría Fernando , Kockum Anton Frisk , Delsing Per , Gasparinetti Simone
Published: August 2024

We demonstrate the use of coherent-state quantum process tomography (csQPT) for a bosonic-mode superconducting circuit. We have enhanced our methodology over previous implementations of csQPT by leveraging Kraus operators and constrained gradient descent to learn the underlying process. We show the results of our method by characterizing a logical quantum gate implemented using displacement and selective number-dependent arbitrary phase operations on an encoded qubit. Our use of csQPT allows for the reconstruction of Kraus operators for the larger Hilbert space rather than being limited to the logical subspace. This approach enables us to more accurately identify and quantify the various error mechanisms that can lead to gate infidelity, including those occurring outside of the computational subspace. We showcase the potential of our approach by demonstrating the ability to quantify leakage outside of the computational subspace, a key factor for developing more robust and reliable quantum gates in high-dimensional systems.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Fingerprints of composite fermion Lambda levels in scanning tunneling microscopy
Authors: Pu Songyang , Balram Ajit C. , Hu Yuwen , Tsui Yen-Chen , He Minhao , Regnault Nicolas , Zaletel Michael P. , Yazdani Ali , Papić Zlatko
Published: August 2024

A composite fermion (CF) is a topological quasiparticle that emerges from a nonperturbative attachment of vortices to electrons in strongly correlated two-dimensional materials. Similar to noninteracting fermions that form Landau levels in a magnetic field, CFs can fill analogous “Lambda” levels, giving rise to the fractional quantum Hall (FQH) effect of electrons. Here, we show that Lambda levels can be directly visualized through the characteristic peak structure in the signal obtained via spectroscopy with scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) on a FQH state. Complementary to transport, which probes the low-energy properties of CFs, we show that features in STM spectra can be interpreted in terms of Lambda levels. We numerically demonstrate that STM spectra can be accurately modeled using Jain's CF theory. Our results show that STM provides a powerful tool for revealing the anatomy of FQH states and identifying physics beyond the noninteracting CF paradigm.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Chiral-odd generalized parton distributions of sea quarks at
ξ=0
in the light-cone quark model
Authors: Luan Xiaoyan , Lu Zhun
Published: August 2024

We study the chiral-odd generalized parton distributions (GPDs) of the u¯ and d¯ quarks inside the proton at zero skewness using the overlap representation within the light-cone formalism. Utilizing the light-cone wave functions of the proton obtained from the baryon-meson fluctuation model in terms of the |qq¯B⟩ Fock states, we provide expressions for the GPDs H˜Tq¯/P(x,0,t), HTq¯/P(x,0,t), and ETq¯/P(x,0,t) where q¯=u¯ and d¯. Numerical results for these GPDs in momentum space as well as in impact parameter space are presented. Additionally, we investigate specific combinations of the chiral-odd GPDs in impact parameter space, focusing on the spin-orbit correlation effect of the sea quarks.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Exciton-Exciton Interactions in Van der Waals Heterobilayers
Authors: Steinhoff Alexander , Wietek Edith , Florian Matthias , Schulz Tommy , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Zhao Shen , Högele Alexander , Jahnke Frank , Chernikov Alexey
Published: August 2024

Exciton-exciton interactions are key to understanding nonlinear optical and transport phenomena in van der Waals heterobilayers, which emerged as versatile platforms to study correlated electronic states. We present a combined theory-experiment study of excitonic many-body effects based on first-principle band structures and Coulomb interaction matrix elements. Key to our approach is the explicit treatment of the fermionic substructure of excitons and dynamical screening effects for density-induced energy renormalization and dissipation. We demonstrate that dipolar blueshifts are almost perfectly compensated by many-body effects, mainly by screening-induced self-energy corrections. Moreover, we identify a crossover between attractive and repulsive behavior at elevated exciton densities. Theoretical findings are supported by experimental studies of spectrally narrow, mobile interlayer excitons in atomically reconstructed, h-BN-encapsulated MoSe2/WSe2 heterobilayers. Both theory and experiment show energy renormalization on a scale of a few meV even for high injection densities in the vicinity of the Mott transition. Our results revise the established picture of dipolar repulsion dominating exciton-exciton interactions in van der Waals heterostructures and open up opportunities for their external design.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Nonequilibrium Antigen Recognition during Infections and Vaccinations
Authors: Morán-Tovar Roberto , Lässig Michael
Published: August 2024

The initial immune response to an acute primary infection is a coupled process of antigen proliferation, molecular recognition by naive B cells, and their subsequent clonal expansion. This process contains a fundamental problem: the recognition of an exponentially time-dependent antigen signal. Here, we show that an efficient immune response must be stringently constrained to B-cell lineages with high antigen binding affinity. We propose a tuned proofreading mechanism for primary recognition of new antigens, where the molecular recognition machinery is adapted to the complexity of the immune repertoire. We show that this process produces potent, specific, and fast recognition of antigens, maintaining a spectrum of genetically distinct B-cell lineages as input for affinity maturation. Our analysis maps the proliferation-recognition dynamics of a primary infection to a generalized Luria-Delbrück process, akin to the dynamics of the classic fluctuation experiment. This map establishes a link between signal recognition dynamics and evolution. We derive the resulting statistics of the activated immune repertoire: Antigen binding affinity, expected size, and frequency of active B-cell clones are related by power laws, which define the class of generalized Luria-Delbrück processes. Their exponents depend on the antigen and B-cell proliferation rate, the number of proofreading steps, and the lineage density of the naive repertoire. We extend the model to include spatiotemporal processes, including the diffusion-recognition dynamics of a vaccination. Empirical data of activated mouse immune repertoires are found to be consistent with activation involving about three proofreading steps. The model predicts key clinical characteristics of acute infections and vaccinations, including the emergence of elite neutralizers and the effects of immune aging. More broadly, our results establish infections and vaccinations as a new probe into the global architecture and functional principles of immune repertoires.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
CheckMyMetal (CMM): validating metal-binding sites in X-ray and cryo-EM data
Authors: Gucwa Michal , Bijak Vanessa , Zheng Heping , Murzyn Krzysztof , Minor Wladek
Published: August 2024

Identifying and characterizing metal-binding sites (MBS) within macromolecular structures is imperative for elucidating their biological functions. CheckMyMetal (CMM) is a web based tool that facilitates the interactive validation of MBS in structures determined through X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). Recent updates to CMM have significantly enhanced its capability to efficiently handle large datasets generated from cryo-EM structural analyses. In this study, we address various challenges inherent in validating MBS within both X-ray and cryo-EM structures. Specifically, we examine the difficulties associated with accurately identifying metals and modeling their coordination environments by considering the ongoing reproducibility challenges in structural biology and the critical importance of well annotated, high-quality experimental data. CMM employs a sophisticated framework of rules rooted in the valence bond theory for MBS validation. We explore how CMM validation parameters correlate with the resolution of experimentally derived structures of macromolecules and their complexes. Additionally, we showcase the practical utility of CMM by analyzing a representative cryo-EM structure. Through a comprehensive examination of experimental data, we demonstrate the capability of CMM to advance MBS characterization and identify potential instances of metal misassignment.
The role of perceived proximity and employee voice in teleworkers’ well-being
Authors: Labrado-Antolín Maribel , Rodríguez-Ruiz Óscar , Fernández-Menéndez José
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper studies the impact that perceived proximity and employee voice have on the affective well-being of employees working from home (WFH). Drawing on Wilson et al.'s (2008) model of perceived proximity in virtual work, we believe that effectiveness in the use of the enterprise social network (ESN), communication and workmate identification increase the perceived proximity of teleworkers. We also propose that employee voice and perceived proximity have in turn positive implications in terms of well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

The study analyzes a dataset of 542 professionals with experience in home-based telework. Structural equation modeling (SEM) has been used to test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

Results show that perceived proximity is significant and positively associated with affective well-being. Conversely, the expression of direct voice using electronic channels has a negative influence on the well-being of home-based teleworkers.

Originality/value

This study reveals the need to re-think the challenges of telework after the forced experiment of WFH provoked by the COVID-19 pandemics. Building on the “far-but-close” paradox, it emphasizes the role of workmate identification and communication and the perceived effectiveness of the ESN as sources of perceived proximity. At the same time, the paper adds to telework research by explaining how the expression of direct voice through electronic channels and indirect voice can have consequences in terms of well-being.
A morphology-Euclidean-linear recognition method for rebar point clouds of highway tunnel linings during the construction phase
Authors: Zhou Lizhi , Wang Chuan , Niu Pei , Zhang Hanming , Zhang Ning , Xie Quanyi , Wang Jianhong , Zhang Xiao , Liu Jian
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Laser point clouds are a 3D reconstruction method with wide range, high accuracy and strong adaptability. Therefore, the purpose is to discover a construction point cloud extraction method that can obtain complete information about the construction of rebar, facilitating construction quality inspection and tunnel data archiving, to reduce the cost and complexity of construction management.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, this paper analyzes the point cloud data of the tunnel during the construction phase, extracts the main features of the rebar data and proposes an M-E-L recognition method. Secondly, based on the actual conditions of the tunnel and the specifications of Chinese tunnel engineering, a rebar model experiment is designed to obtain experimental data. Finally, the feasibility and accuracy of the M-E-L recognition method are analyzed and tested based on the experimental data from the model.

Findings

Based on tunnel morphology characteristics, data preprocessing, Euclidean clustering and PCA shape extraction methods, a M-E-L identification algorithm is proposed for identifying secondary lining rebars in highway tunnel construction stages. The algorithm achieves 100% extraction of the first-layer rebars, allowing for the three-dimensional visualization of the on-site rebar situation. Subsequently, through data processing, rebar dimensions and spacings can be obtained. For the second-layer rebars, 55% extraction is achieved, providing information on the rebar skeleton and partial rebar details at the construction site. These extracted data can be further processed to verify compliance with construction requirements.

Originality/value

This paper introduces a laser point cloud method for double-layer rebar identification in tunnels. Current methods rely heavily on manual detection, lacking objectivity. Objective approaches for automatic rebar identification include image-based and LiDAR-based methods. Image-based methods are constrained by tunnel lighting conditions, while LiDAR focuses on straight rebar skeletons. Our research proposes a 3D point cloud recognition algorithm for tunnel lining rebar. This method can extract double-layer rebars and obtain construction rebar dimensions, enhancing management efficiency.
The relationship between the cost of living and food security in developing countries. Evidence from Ghana
Authors: Sogah Ernest , Mawutor John Kwaku Mensah , Gborse Freeman Christian
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The aim of the quantity study is to investigate the cost of living and food security nexus in Ghana. Time series secondary quarterly data from 2012Q1 to 2018Q4 were examined.

Design/methodology/approach

The autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) to cointegration bound test was employed for the econometrics analysis. Time series secondary quarterly data from 2012Q1 to 2018Q4 were examined. Food security data based on the Global Food Security Index score were employed.

Findings

The result revealed that the variables are cointegrated in the long run. The study also revealed that the cost of living worsens food security in Ghana both in the short run and the long run. This could imply that people may not have enough money to afford adequate and nutritious food, which can lead to food insecurity. As the cost of living increases, people may have to spend more of their income on basic necessities such as housing, healthcare and transportation, leaving less money for food. This can result in people choosing cheaper and less nutritious options, or even skipping meals, which can have negative impacts on their health and well-being.

Practical implications

For policy implications, it is recommended that effort should be made by the Ministry of Finance Ghana, financial analysts and other economic agents to stabilize prices of goods and services in the country.

Originality/value

The study is among the few to have investigated the nexus between the cost of living and food security in non-Western economy using the secondary data.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-04-2023-0309
Gaining acceptance for digital servitization: the role of legitimacy in the development of a smart service in established manufacturing ecosystems
Authors: Kristiansen Marius , Aas Tor Helge
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Digital servitization research has focused on how manufacturing firms use digital technologies to change business models and offer smart services; less attention has been devoted to the degree to which external actors in the existing ecosystem accept these smart services. Therefore, the authors pose the following research question: How does a manufacturing firm introduce and gain acceptance of new smart services within an established ecosystem?

Design/methodology/approach

Building on servitization, ecosystem and legitimacy theories, this paper addresses the research question through an in-depth case study of a world-leading original equipment manufacturer that is currently developing and introducing new smart services in its existing ecosystem.

Findings

The findings suggest that external actors emphasize different types of legitimacy in deciding whether to accept a new smart service. The findings also show that the type of legitimacy required to gain acceptance changes throughout the development of the smart service, from the definition of the value proposition to the design and delivery of the service.

Practical implications

This study can assist smart service providers in identifying which type of legitimacy is important for each ecosystem actor and strengthening these types of legitimacy to gain acceptance from the ecosystem.

Originality/value

This study develops a framework to help describe the thresholds for acceptance of a smart service through the development phases, as well as to indicate the types of legitimacy that smart service providers must relate to when seeking to gain acceptance for their new offering.
Teaching ethics and ethical leadership with the Harvard Everest simulation
Authors: Lvina Elena
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This is a step-by-step guide for teaching Ethics and Ethical Leadership utilizing the Harvard Everest Leadership and Teams Simulation, V.3. The suggested approach is focused on facilitating a discussion and coaching students to recognize and solve problems by applying moral theory explicitly and deliberately. Applying this approach can also help them develop a habit of analyzing one’s own and others' behavior using ethical lenses and principles of authentic leadership. It offers practical debrief steps and specific discussion questions that can be used as a standalone resource or alongside the Harvard teaching note accompanying the simulation.

Design/methodology/approach

This innovative approach enables teaching and coaching students on the ethical aspects of their leadership and decision-making based on this hands-on experience with the Harvard Everest Leadership and Teams Simulation. This approach enriches the original HBR teaching suggestions by enabling students to recognize moral dilemmas, confront typical rationalizations and practice ethical actions and decision-making in real time.

Findings

In-class discussion and student reflection assignments provide evidence of the method's effectiveness in translating values into impactful insights and enhanced likelihood of ethical behaviors in real-life scenarios. Students’ end-of-class feedback and course evaluations often cite the benefits of using the Everest simulation as a backdrop for raising self-awareness and practicing ethical decision-making.

Practical implications

The approach discussed in the paper can serve as a flexible framework for analyzing and debriefing the HBR Everest simulation and other simulations, “survival scenario” exercises and activities designed to teach and facilitate practicing ethical leadership, authentic leadership and ethical decision making. It is adaptable and can be effectively applied across various disciplines centered around ethical leadership, teamwork, communication and decision-making in higher education and business.

Originality/value

Harvard Everest Leadership and Teams Simulation is among the most popular ones in business education and is used by teachers worldwide (Roberto & Edmondson, 2017). While a comprehensive teaching note on communication and group dynamics is available through Harvard Business Publishing, it still needs to address the ethical issues students face during the simulation. This paper provides a roadmap for instructors who want to improve the student experience with ethical decision-making and ethical leadership.
Does too much or too little task conflict hurt service performance? A multilevel curvilinear model
Authors: Yang Mingjun , Luu Tuan , Wang Dan
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The quality of service determines whether service firms can satisfy customers and achieve business quality and sustainability. As contemporary service firms are dependent on both team and employee to serve customers, it is important to investigate how to simultaneously facilitate team service performance (TSP) and employee service performance (ESP). Our aim is to build a multilevel model of the curvilinear effect of task conflict (TC) on TSP and ESP, as well as the moderating effects underlying the above curvilinear relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Two-sourced data were obtained from 47 team leaders and 326 employees in Chinese hotels. Multilevel structural equation modeling was utilized for validating the model.

Findings

The results revealed that TC exerted a curvilinear effect on both TSP and ESP. Ethical climate (EC) and internal knowledge transfer (IKT) served as moderators strengthening the curvilinear nexus between TC and ESP.

Originality/value

We contribute to the conflict-performance stream in management literature by unmasking the curvilinear effects of TC on both TSP and ESP, and the moderation mechanisms underlying such curvilinear effects.