bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eigenstates and temporal dynamics in cavity optomagnonics
Authors: Ding 丁 Yun-Jing 云静 , Xiao 肖 Yang 杨
Published: August 2023

Many studies of magnon–photon coupling are performed in the frequency domain for microwave photons. In this work, we present analytical results of eigenfrequency, eigenstates, and temporal dynamics for the coupling between ferromagnetic magnon and visible photon. In contrast to microwave photons, optical photons can be coupled with magnon in a dispersive interaction which produces both level repulsion and attraction by varying the magnon–photon frequency detuning. At resonance, the hybridized states are of linear polarization and circular polarization for level repulsion and level attraction respectively. As the detuning increases, the polarizations of level repulsion remain linear but those of level attraction vary from elliptical to linear polarizations. The temporal dynamics of level repulsion presents the beat-like behavior. The level attraction presents monotonous decay in the weak coupling regime but gives rise to instability in the strong coupling regime due to the magnon amplification. As the detuning is large, both magnon and photon amplitudes present a synchronizing oscillation. Our results are important for exploring the temporal evolution of magnon–photon coupling in the range of optical frequency and designing magnon-based timing devices.
Intruder trajectory tracking in a three-dimensional vibration-driven granular system: Unveiling the mechanism of the Brazil nut effect
Authors: Li 李 Tuo 拓 , Cheng 程 Ke 可 , Peng 彭 Zheng 政 , Yang 杨 Hui 晖 , Hou 厚 Meiying 美瑛
Published: August 2023

We employ a Hall-effect magnetic sensor array to accurately track the trajectory of a single magnetic sphere, referred to as the “intruder,” within a three-dimensional vibro-fluidized granular bed to unravel the underlying physical mechanism governing the motion of the intruder. Within the acceleration range of 3.5 g ≥ Γ ≥ 1.5 g, we find that, regardless of the intruder’s initial position, it consistently reaches the same equilibrium depth when the vibration acceleration (Γ) and frequency (ω) are fixed. For Γ ≤ 2.5 g, the equilibrium position lies on the surface of the granular bed, while for Γ > 2.5 g, it shifts below the surface. Additionally, intruders with different densities exhibit varying equilibrium depths, with higher density resulting in a deeper equilibrium position. To understand the mechanism behind the intruder’s upward or downward motion, we measure its rising or sinking velocities under different vibration parameters. Our findings demonstrate that the rising velocity of the intruder, under varying vibration accelerations (Γ) and frequencies (ω), can be collapsed using the ratio Γ/ω, while the sinking velocity remains unaffected by the vibration strength. This confirms that the upward motion of the larger sphere, associated with the Brazil nut effect, primarily arises from the void-filling mechanism of the bed particles. Furthermore, our experiments reveal that the presence of convection within the bed particles has minimal impact on the motion of the intruder.
Spin alignment of vector mesons from quark dynamics in a rotating medium*
Authors: Wei 魏 Minghua 明华 , Huang 黄 Mei 梅
Published: August 2023

Vorticities in heavy-ion collisions (HICs) are supposed to induce spin alignment and polarization phenomena of quarks and mesons. In this work, we analyze the spin alignment of vector mesons ϕ and ρ induced by rotation from quark dynamics in the framework of the Nambu-Jona-Lasinio (NJL) model. The rotating angular velocity induces mass splitting of spin components for vector

mesons

. This behavior contributes to the spin alignment of vector mesons

in an equilibrium medium and naturally explains the negative deviation of

for vector mesons. Incidentally, the positive deviation of

under the magnetic field can also be easily understood from quark dynamics.
A Better Candidate for Dark Matter is Cosmic Plasma
Authors: Zheng Yi-Jia
Published: August 2023

In the ΛCDM cosmological model, based on observations of supernovae Ia, the cosmic dark energy density is assumed to be ΩΛ ∼ 0.70 and the gravitational mass density is assumed to be Ω
m
∼ 0.30. Based on the assumption that the observed cosmic microwave background (CMB) is a thermal relic of the early hot universe, the cosmic plasma density should be small, i.e., Ω
b
∼ 0.05 (otherwise the Sunyaev-Zeldovich effect of the cosmic plasma would ruin the observed CMB's perfect blackbody spectrum). To fill the gap between Ω
m
and Ω
b
, non-baryonic dark matter Ω
c
∼ 0.25 is introduced into the ΛCDM model. If the CMB is the result of a partial thermal equilibrium between cosmic radiation and cosmic plasma, then the observed perfect blackbody spectrum of the CMB can coexist with cosmic plasma. In this case, it is not necessary to introduce non-baryonic cold dark matter into cosmological models. A better candidate for dark matter is the cosmic plasma.
Recent advancements and theranostics strategies in glioblastoma therapy
Authors: Baddam Sudhakar Reddy , Kalagara Sudhakar , Kuna Krishna , Enaganti Sreenivas
Published: August 2023

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive and lethal malignant brain tumor, and it is challenging to cure with surgery and treatment. The prevention of permanent brain damage and tumor invasion, which is the ultimate cause of recurrence, are major obstacles in GBM treatment. Besides, emerging treatment modalities and newer genetic findings are helping to understand and manage GBM in patients. Accordingly, researchers are focusing on advanced nanomaterials-based strategies for tackling the various problems associated with GBM. In this context, researchers explored novel strategies with various alternative treatment approaches such as early detection techniques and theranostics approaches. In this review, we have emphasized the recent advancement of GBM cellular models and their roles in designing GBM therapeutics. We have added a special emphasis on the novel genetic and drug target findings as well as strategies for early detection. Besides, we have discussed various theranostic approaches such as hyperthermia therapy, phototherapy and image-guided therapy. Approaches utilized for targeted drug delivery to the GBM were also discussed. This article also describes the recent in vivo, in vitro and ex vivo advances using innovative theranostic approaches.
Generation of cell-laden GelMA microspheres using microfluidic chip and its cryopreservation method
Authors: Tan Jia , Li Jiahui , Zhou Xinli
Published: August 2023

Gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogels have been widely used in tissue engineering because of their excellent biological and physical properties. Here, we used a microfluidic flow-focusing chip based on polymethyl methacrylate to fabricate cell-laden GelMA hydrogel microspheres. Structures of the throat region and photo crosslinking region on the chip, flow rate ratio of GelMA and oil phase, and GelMA concentration were optimized to obtain the stable and suitable size of microspheres. Cell-laden GelMA microspheres can be cryopreserved by slow freezing and rapid freezing. The survival rate of encapsulated cells after rapid freezing was significantly higher than that of unencapsulated cells. There was no significant difference between the results of the rapid freezing of encapsulated cells with 5% DMSO and the traditional slow freezing of suspended cells with 10% DMSO. It demonstrates the possibility that GelMA hydrogel itself can replace some of the cryoprotective agents and has some protective effect on cells. Our study provides new ideas to optimize GelMA hydrogels for cell cryopreservation, facilitating the off-the-shelf availability of tissue-engineered constructs.
Processing and characterization of aligned electrospun gelatin/polycaprolactone nanofiber mats incorporating borate glass (13-93B3) microparticles
Authors: Ege Duygu , Pourshahrestani Sara , Iorio Francesco , Reinfelder Heike , de Ligny Dominique , Boccaccini Aldo R
Published: August 2023

Aligned biodegradable fibers incorporating bioactive glass particles are being highly investigated for tissue engineering applications. In this study, 5, 7 and 10 wt% melt-derived 1393B3 borate glass (BG) microparticles (average size: 3.15 µm) were incorporated in 83 wt% polycaprolactone (PCL) and 17 wt% gelatin (GEL) (83PCL/17GEL) solutions to produce aligned electrospun composite nanofiber mats. Addition of 5 wt% BG particles significantly increased the alignment of the nanofibers. However, further incorporation of BG particles led to reduced degree of alignment, likely due to an increase of viscosity. Mechanical tests indicated a tensile modulus and tensile strength of approximately 51 MPa and 3.4 MPa, respectively, for 5 wt% addition of 1393B3 BG microparticles, values considered suitable for soft tissue engineering applications. However, with the increasing amount of 1393B3 BG, the nanofiber mats became brittle. Contact angle was reduced after the addition of 5 wt% of 1393B3 BG particles from ∼45° to ∼39°. Cell culture studies with normal human dermal fibroblast (NHDF) cells indicated that 5 wt% 1393B3 BG incorporated nanofiber mats were cytocompatible whereas higher doping with 1393B3 BGs reduced biocompatibility. Overall, 5 wt% 1393B3 BG doped PCL/GEL nanofiber mats were aligned with high biocompatibility exhibiting desirable mechanical properties for soft tissue engineering, which indicates their potential for applications requiring aligned nanofibers, such as peripheral neural regeneration.
Repeated fires in forested peatlands in sporadic permafrost zone in Western Canada
Authors: Kuosmanen Niina , Väliranta Minna , Piilo Sanna , Tuittila Eeva-Stiina , Oksanen Pirita , Wallenius Tuomo
Published: August 2023

Wildfires play a crucial role in northern boreal peatland ecosystems, influencing the functioning of these ecosystems by affecting vegetation composition and biomass, peat accumulation patterns, and soil carbon stocks. Northern peatland ecosystems are under pressure due to climate warming and increasing anthropogenic stress. The frequency and severity of wildfires is predicted to increase in the coming years. Therefore, understanding long-term natural fire dynamics and their effect on peatland functionality will provide crucial information for peatland management and preservation policies. To investigate the long-term fire history of Western Canada and its effect on peat accumulation and vegetation succession, we analyzed macroscopic plant remains and charcoal within peat cores taken from five peatlands in the region. Records of the most recent fire events were derived from fire scars and documented fires in the study area. Regional long-term peatland fire patterns were examined by pooling together macroscopic charcoal records and calculating 100 year moving averages. All studied sites, except the northernmost one, demonstrated repeated fires throughout the past 1500 years, suggesting that fires have been an integral part of the peatland ecosystem in Western Canada. Compiled charcoal records indicated a peak in fire activity, with the highest abundance of charcoal for the period from the 1300s to the 1550s and decreasing fire activity during recent centuries. The clear and consistent post-fire increase in the abundance of Sphagnum mosses suggests a relatively rapid recovery of peatland ecosystems after burning. The regeneration pattern, where pre-fire vegetation repeatedly re-establishes, suggests that from a long-term perspective, fires do not necessarily have a negative effect on peatland functioning and peat accumulation. In conclusion, peatlands could remain as effective carbon sinks if their natural state is secured.
Divergent responses of permafrost degradation to precipitation increases at different seasons on the eastern Qinghai–Tibet Plateau based on modeling approach
Authors: Yang Jingjing , Wang Taihua , Yang Dawen
Published: August 2023

The Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP) has responded to remarkable climate warming with dramatic permafrost degradation over the past few decades. Previous studies have mostly focused on permafrost responses to rising air temperature, while the effects of accompanying increases in precipitation remain contentious and largely unknown. In this study, a distributed process-based model was applied to quantify the impacts of increased precipitation on permafrost thermal regimes in a warming climate by employing model experiments in the source region of Yellow River (SRYR) on the eastern QTP. The results showed that the active layer thickness (ALT) of permafrost increased by 0.25 m during 2010–2019 compared to 2000 across the SRYR, which was primarily driven by climate warming. In contrast, the increased annual precipitation played a relatively limited role and just slightly mitigated active layer thickening by 0.03 m. Intriguingly, increased precipitation in the cold and warm seasons exerted opposite effects on permafrost across the SRYR. The increased precipitation in the cold season mainly promoted ALT increases, while the increased precipitation in the warm season mitigated ALT increases. In ∼81.0% of the permafrost across the SRYR, the cooling effects of warm season wetting outweighed the warming effects of cold season wetting; while at the transition zone where permafrost was unstable and degrading to seasonally frozen ground, the warming effects of cold season wetting played a relatively larger role which contributed to permafrost degradation. This study explored the physical mechanisms of permafrost thermal responses to climate wetting, thus providing a better understanding of permafrost change in a warmer and wetter climate on the QTP.
Diagnostic accuracy of eNose ‘breathprints’ for therapeutic drug monitoring of Tacrolimus trough levels in lung transplantation
Authors: Wijbenga Nynke , Muller Marjolein M , Hoek Rogier A S , Mathot Bas J , Seghers Leonard , Aerts Joachim G J V , de Winter Brenda C M , Bos Daniel , Manintveld Olivier C , Hellemons Merel E
Published: August 2023

In order to prevent long-term immunity-related complications after lung transplantation, close monitoring of immunosuppressant levels using therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is paramount. Novel electronic nose (eNose) technology may be a non-invasive alternative to the current invasive procedures for TDM. We investigated the diagnostic and categorization capacity of eNose breathprints for Tacrolimus trough blood plasma levels (TACtrough) in lung transplant recipients (LTRs). We performed eNose measurements in stable LTR attending the outpatient clinic. We evaluated (1) the correlation between eNose measurements and TACtrough, (2) the diagnostic capacity of eNose technology for TACtrough, and (3) the accuracy of eNose technology for categorization of TACtrough into three clinically relevant categories (low: <7 µg ml−1, medium: 7–10 µg ml−1, and high: >10 µg ml−1 ). A total of 186 measurements from 86 LTR were included. There was a weak but statistically significant correlation (r = 0.21, p = 0.004) between the eNose measurements and TACtrough. The root mean squared error of prediction for the diagnostic capacity was 3.186 in the training and 3.131 in the validation set. The accuracy of categorization ranged between 45%–63% for the training set and 52%–69% in the validation set. There is a weak correlation between eNose breathprints and TACtrough in LTR. However, the diagnostic as well as categorization capacity for TACtrough using eNose breathprints is too inaccurate to be applicable in TDM.
Enhance the photocatalytic activity of fluoride graphdiyne/TiO2 through introducing organic components
Authors: Wang Kaihang , Liu Jingyi , Zhang Luwei , Wang Ning
Published: August 2023

Structure engineering of hybrid materials has been proved to be an efficient method to screen out superior photocatalysis. The distribution and bonding environment of covalent linkage segments can be well regulated through structure decoration. Here, we propose a controlled strategy to optimize the photocatalytic performance of hybrid catalysts. Systematic adjusting of the performance can be achieved by introducing organic components into the carbon supporter. Under the guidance of this strategy, fluoride graphdiyne (FGDY) and phloroglucinol regulating FGDY (P-FGDY) is compounded with titanium dioxide (TiO2) under solvent thermal condition to obtain hybrid catalyst FGDY/TiO2 and P-FGDY/TiO2, respectively. Notably, the as-prepared P-FGDY/TiO2 exhibits superior enhancements towards photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B, methylene blue, and levofloxacin under visible-light irradiation compared with FGDY/TiO2. These enhanced photocatalytic activities stem from the fact that the regulation of FGDY could further increase the photogenerated electron and hole separation efficiency of hybrid catalyst. This work provides a novel regulating pathway to optimize the photocatalytic activity of carbon-based hybrid photocatalysis material systems.
Anisotropic energy transfer near multi-layer black phosphorus
Authors: Nayem Suzit Hasan , Sikder Bejoy , Uddin Shiekh Zia
Published: August 2023

Energy transfer (ET) between quantum emitters is a key process for many scientific domains and technological applications, and can be influenced by strategic placement of appropriate materials in the vicinity. However, all explored conventional isotropic materials lacks directional control over this process. Here, we show that multilayered black phosphorus (bP), a novel anisotropic two-dimensional material, can simultaneously dramatically boost and directionally control ET rates in the near-field regime. We find that bP exhibits a critical thickness above which the ET rates increase by several orders of magnitude compared to vacuum. Moreover, we demonstrate that bP can manipulate the ET in specific in-plane directions due to its strong in-plane anisotropy. Our results build the framework and provide fundamental insights into the mechanisms of ET near anisotropic materials, and open up new possibilities for designing and optimizing ET-based devices, systems and applications.
Deep learning-based detection and identification of brain tumor biomarkers in quantitative MR-images
Authors: Tampu Iulian Emil , Haj-Hosseini Neda , Blystad Ida , Eklund Anders
Published: August 2023

The infiltrative nature of malignant gliomas results in active tumor spreading into the peritumoral edema, which is not visible in conventional magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) even after contrast injection. MR relaxometry (qMRI) measures relaxation rates dependent on tissue properties and can offer additional contrast mechanisms to highlight the non-enhancing infiltrative tumor. To investigate if qMRI data provides additional information compared to cMRI sequences when considering deep learning-based brain tumor detection and segmentation, preoperative conventional (T1w per- and post-contrast, T2w and FLAIR) and quantitative (pre- and post-contrast R1, R2 and proton density) MR data was obtained from 23 patients with typical radiological findings suggestive of a high-grade glioma. 2D deep learning models were trained on transversal slices (n = 528) for tumor detection and segmentation using either cMRI or qMRI. Moreover, trends in quantitative R1 and R2 rates of regions identified as relevant for tumor detection by model explainability methods were qualitatively analyzed. Tumor detection and segmentation performance for models trained with a combination of qMRI pre- and post-contrast was the highest (detection Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) = 0.72, segmentation dice similarity coefficient (DSC) = 0.90), however, the difference compared to cMRI was not statistically significant. Overall analysis of the relevant regions identified using model explainability showed no differences between models trained on cMRI or qMRI. When looking at the individual cases, relaxation rates of brain regions outside the annotation and identified as relevant for tumor detection exhibited changes after contrast injection similar to region inside the annotation in the majority of cases. In conclusion, models trained on qMRI data obtained similar detection and segmentation performance to those trained on cMRI data, with the advantage of quantitatively measuring brain tissue properties within a similar scan time. When considering individual patients, the analysis of relaxation rates of regions identified by model explainability suggests the presence of infiltrative tumor outside the cMRI-based tumor annotation.
Developing Consensus-Based Guidelines for Case Reporting in Aesthetic Medicine: Enhancing Transparency and Standardization
Authors: Rahman Eqram , Philip-Dormston Wolfgang G , Webb William Richard , Rao Parinitha , Carruthers Jean Diana , Carruthers Alastair , Swift Arthur , Goodman Greg Julian , Mosahebi Afshin , Nahai Foad
Published: August 2023

Clinical case reporting plays a vital role in sharing detailed patient narratives, providing insights into rare conditions, innovative treatments, and unexpected outcomes. However, existing reporting guidelines in aesthetic medicine fail to capture the specific nuances of procedures and outcomes in this field. The authors’ objectives were to develop comprehensive guidelines for Case REporting in Aesthetic Medicine (CREAM). The study employed a 3-phase consensus process, including a literature review, expert interviews, and a consensus meeting. A diverse group of 10 expert participants (plastic surgeons, dermatologists, noncore specialists, evidence-based medicine expert, and research scientist) in Phase I and 30 experienced aesthetic practitioners in Phase II contributed to the research. Statistical analysis was conducted to assess agreement levels among participants and explore associations and variations within the data. The participants represented various specialties, genders, LGBTQ+ identities, and ethnic backgrounds. The research resulted in the development of the CREAM guidelines, consisting of a 16-item checklist. The guidelines covered essential aspects of case reporting, such as patient and practice information, procedure details, clinical assessment and outcomes, adverse events, and ethical considerations. Statistical analysis indicated a high level of consensus among participants, as well as significant associations between checklist items. CREAM guidelines represent a step toward enhancing transparency and standardization in case reporting in aesthetic medicine. Adhering to these guidelines will allow authors to contribute to a robust evidence base, prioritize patient safety, and drive advancements aesthetic medicine.
Splicing defects in rare diseases: transcriptomics and machine learning strategies towards genetic diagnosis
Authors: Wang Robert , Helbig Ingo , Edmondson Andrew C , Lin Lan , Xing Yi
Published: August 2023

Genomic variants affecting pre-messenger RNA splicing and its regulation are known to underlie many rare genetic diseases. However, common workflows for genetic diagnosis and clinical variant interpretation frequently overlook splice-altering variants. To better serve patient populations and advance biomedical knowledge, it has become increasingly important to develop and refine approaches for detecting and interpreting pathogenic splicing variants. In this review, we will summarize a few recent developments and challenges in using RNA sequencing technologies for rare disease investigation. Moreover, we will discuss how recent computational splicing prediction tools have emerged as complementary approaches for revealing disease-causing variants underlying splicing defects. We speculate that continuous improvements to sequencing technologies and predictive modeling will not only expand our understanding of splicing regulation but also bring us closer to filling the diagnostic gap for rare disease patients.
Artificial intelligence-aided protein engineering: from topological data analysis to deep protein language models
Authors: Qiu Yuchi , Wei Guo-Wei
Published: August 2023

Protein engineering is an emerging field in biotechnology that has the potential to revolutionize various areas, such as antibody design, drug discovery, food security, ecology, and more. However, the mutational space involved is too vast to be handled through experimental means alone. Leveraging accumulative protein databases, machine learning (ML) models, particularly those based on natural language processing (NLP), have considerably expedited protein engineering. Moreover, advances in topological data analysis (TDA) and artificial intelligence-based protein structure prediction, such as AlphaFold2, have made more powerful structure-based ML-assisted protein engineering strategies possible. This review aims to offer a comprehensive, systematic, and indispensable set of methodological components, including TDA and NLP, for protein engineering and to facilitate their future development.
Truly Listening to Accounts of Mental Health Act Assessments: Reflections on my Practice
Authors: Blakley Louise
Published: August 2023

This article draws upon the experience of the author whilst undertaking a qualitative research study exploring service user experiences of being assessed for detention to a mental health hospital. Doing research as a social work practitioner is a growing area and a common motivation is to improve practice. This article brings a different way of reporting research, which is embedded in the reflective tradition of social work. It explores practitioner research and insider/outsider perspectives. Through reflection, the author examines in depth two participants’ narratives, how this impacted her as a mental health social worker and the changes in her practice. These assessments are complex pieces of social work with involuntary service users in a pressured setting and are a challenging area for practitioners to improve service user experiences.
Tree pruning improves tree form but not understory plant production in mixed stands of Sitka spruce and western hemlock, USA
Authors: Nelson Kellen N , Barnard Jeffrey C , Massingham Preston M , Crotteau Justin S
Published: August 2023

Precommercial thinning and tree pruning are frequently used together to improve timber quality and wildlife habitat in even-aged Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) and western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) stands. Thinning enhances crop tree growth and understory plant production; however, the benefits and drawbacks of tree pruning have received less attention. Tree pruning was investigated in two long-term experiments on the Tongass National Forest, Alaska, USA. Experiment 1 tracked four uniformly thinned sites for ~30 years that received 2.4, 3.6, and 5.2 m lift, and no pruning treatments. Experiment 2 tracked 11 sites for 16 years that received thinning/no pruning, thinning plus pruning (25% of trees), thinning plus pruning (50% of trees), and no thinning/no pruning treatments. We investigated (i) how pruning lift height affects tree form and understory production and (ii) how pruning density affects canopy closure and understory production. In Experiment 1, pruning reduced butt log taper and did not adversely affect diameter or height in either species. Pruning lift was visible in height-to-live crown measurements. Crown recession occurred first in low lift treatments and later in all treatments until crown form was similar after 28–31 years. Epicormic branching rates in Sitka spruce peaked 6–9 years after treatment before falling sharply. Deer forage declined through time and did not differ between lift treatments. In Experiment 2, canopy closure was lower shortly after thinning and pruning, but did not differ from the control after 16 years. Epicormic branching rates were greater shortly after thinning and pruning but did not differ from the control after 16 years. Deer forage declined with canopy closure and thinned and pruned treatments exhibited greater forage than the control. We conclude that pruning can improve log quality for timber applications but does not enhance understory plant biomass and deer forage over thinning treatment alone.
Optimizing Motor Learning in Older Adults
Authors: Khalaji Zahra , Nezakat Alhosseini Maryam , Safavi Hamami Shila , Iwatsuki Takehiro , Wulf Gabriele
Published: August 2023

Objectives

According to the Optimizing Performance Through Intrinsic Motivation and Attention for Learning (OPTIMAL) theory of Wulf and Lewthwaite, enhanced expectancies (EE), autonomy support (AS), and an external focus (EF) of attention facilitate motor performance and learning. The present study examined whether consecutive implementation of EE, AS, and EF during practice would enhance the learning of a square-stepping task in older adults.

Methods

Participants were randomly assigned to optimized and control groups. After the pretest, 1 of the 3 factors was implemented during each of the three 12-trial practice blocks, in a counterbalanced order, in the optimized group: positive feedback (EE), choice of mat color (AS), and instructions to focus on the squares (EF). Control group participants practiced without any of these factors.

Results

Results indicated that the optimized group had faster movement times than the control group during the practice phase and on 24-hr retention and transfer tests.

Discussion

The key variables in the OPTIMAL theory can be applied sequentially in order to facilitate motor performance and learning in older adults.
The Impact of Cannabis Use on Clinical Outcomes in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Population-based Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Glickman Danny , Dalessio Shannon , Raup-Konsavage Wesley M , Vrana Kent E , Coates Matthew D
Published: August 2023

Background

Cannabis use is common in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Recent studies demonstrated that use of cannabis may relieve symptoms; however, it is still unclear how safe cannabis and its derivatives are for IBD patients. We performed this study to evaluate the impact of cannabis use on several key clinical outcomes in IBD.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study using the TriNetX Diamond Network. Cannabis use and noncannabis use subcohorts were identified for 3 patient groups: (1) IBD, (2) Crohn’s disease (CD), and (3) ulcerative colitis (UC). Baseline differences between subcohorts for each group were controlled by propensity score matching. In each group, we compared relative incidence of emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalization, corticosteroid use, opioid use, IBD-related surgery, and death between cannabis users and noncannabis users.

Results

Inflammatory bowel disease cannabis users demonstrated an increased risk for corticosteroid use (risk ratios [R],1.095; 95% CI, 1.021-1.174; P = .011), ED visits (RR, 2.143; 95% CI, 2.034-2.257; P < .001), hospitalizations (RR, 1.925; 95% CI, 1.783-2.079; P < .001) and opioid use (RR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.14-1.6); P < .001), but not an increased risk of IBD-related surgery or death. The CD and UC groups exhibited similar outcomes, except only CD demonstrated an increased risk for corticosteroid and opioid use.

Conclusions

Cannabis use in IBD patients is associated with several poor clinical outcomes, including increased risk of corticosteroid and opioid use, ED visits and hospitalization, though not IBD-related surgery or death. It is not clear what drives these risks or whether they are directly related to IBD-associated disease activity or other factors. Further prospective studies are warranted to more carefully investigate these relationships.
Clinical pharmacists’ perspective of medication adherence support in Ethiopian hospital settings: a qualitative study
Authors: Tegegn Henok G , Wark Stuart , Tursan d’Espaignet Edouard , Spark M Joy
Published: August 2023

Background

Hospital pharmacists can assist patients with medication adherence in a hospital setting. No studies have explored the views of hospital pharmacists on medication adherence.

Objectives

The study aimed to explore Ethiopian clinical pharmacists’ understanding of and experience with medication adherence, and identify strategies for medication adherence support.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted via ZOOM/Skype. Hospital pharmacists were recruited through a professional network and snowball sampling. All interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, translated into English and analysed using thematic analysis techniques. The data coding followed a hybrid deductive and inductive approach.

Key findings

Fourteen Ethiopian clinical pharmacists participated in the study. Analysis yielded five main themes including: medication adherence definition and measurement; pharmacists’ perceived roles; enablers of medication adherence; barriers to medication adherence; and ways forward. Participants indicated that accurately assessing medication adherence was complicated because of an absence of cost-effective and validated tools. Pharmacist education, clinical pharmacy services, physical structure, sources of medication information, and government initiatives to reduce financial burdens were the facilitators identified. Eight barriers were identified, and these were broadly classified as factors intrinsic or extrinsic to the patient.

Conclusions

Medication adherence support could face barriers intrinsic or extrinsic to patients. Strategies were proposed to overcome the identified barriers and to harness existing facilitators. These strategies included the need for validated local language medication adherence tools, instituting regular adherence measurement and prioritizing patients for available interventions. Patient’s preferred dosage form should be considered along with medication complexity and medication knowledge when supporting medication adherence.
Modified peritoneal flap hernioplasty and abdominoplasty in large incisional hernia after cesarean section with midline vertical incision: a case report
Authors: Elfiah Ulfa , Saputra Antonius Dwi
Published: August 2023

An incisional hernia (IH) is a common complication after a cesarean section (CS). Large IH mesh repair is problematic when initial fascial closure cannot be accomplished. We report the case of a large IH for 20 months after a CS with a midline vertical incision that was treated with a combination of modified peritoneal flap hernioplasty and abdominoplasty. There was a large fascia defect (15 × 21 cm) and adhesions of the omentum and the ileum to the anterior abdominal wall. CS with midline vertical incision, history of surgical site infections and obesity are risk factors that increase IH. In conclusion, this combination successfully repairs a large IH, reduces obesity, prevents recurrence and complications after hernia repair, improves the abdominal shape and patient quality of life. Abdominoplasty is also performed to create new umbilical and vascular preservation.
The Pristine dwarf galaxy survey–V. The edges of the dwarf galaxy Hercules
Authors: Longeard Nicolas , Jablonka Pascale , Battaglia Giuseppina , Malhan Khyati , Martin Nicolas , Sánchez-Janssen Rubén , Sestito Federico , Starkenburg Else , Venn Kim A
Published: August 2023

We present a new spectroscopic study of 175 stars in the vicinity of the dwarf galaxy Hercules (d ∼ 132 kpc) with data from the Anglo-Australian Telescope and its AAOmega spectrograph together with the Two Degree Field multi-object system to solve the conundrum that whether Hercules is tidally disrupting. We combine broad-band photometry, proper motions from Gaia, and our Pristine narrow-band and metallicity-sensitive photometry to efficiently weed out the Milky Way contamination. Such cleaning is particularly critical in this kinematic regime, as both the transverse and heliocentric velocities of Milky Way populations overlap with Hercules. Thanks to this method, three new member stars are identified, including one at almost 10rh of the satellite. All three have velocities and metallicities consistent with that of the main body. Combining this new data set with the entire literature cleaned out from contamination shows that Hercules does not exhibit a velocity gradient (d〈v〉/dχ $= 0.1^{+0.4}_{-0.2}$ km s−1 arcmin−1, 1.6 km s−1 arcmin−1 as a 3σ upper limit) and, as such, does not show evidence to undergo tidal disruption.
Photoevaporation versus enrichment in the cradle of the Sun
Authors: Patel Miti , Polius Cheyenne K M , Ridsdill-Smith Matthew , Lichtenberg Tim , Parker Richard J
Published: August 2023

The presence of short-lived radioisotopes (SLRs) 26Al and 60Fe in the Solar system places constraints on the initial conditions of our planetary system. Most theories posit that the origin of 26Al and 60Fe is in the interiors of massive stars, and they are either delivered directly to the protosolar disc from the winds and supernovae of the massive stars, or indirectly via a sequential star formation event. However, massive stars that produce SLRs also emit photoionizing far and extreme ultraviolet radiation, which can destroy the gas component of protoplanetary discs, possibly precluding the formation of gas giant planets like Jupiter and Saturn. Here, we perfom N-body simulations of star-forming regions and determine whether discs that are enriched in SLRs can retain enough gas to form Jovian planets. We find that discs are enriched and survive the photoionizing radiation only when the dust radius of the disc is fixed and not allowed to move inwards due to the photoevaporation, or outwards due to viscous spreading. Even in this optimal scenario, not enough discs survive until the supernovae of the massive stars and so have zero or very little enrichment in 60Fe. We therefore suggest that the delivery of SLRs to the Solar system may not come from the winds and supernovae of massive stars.
On constraining cosmology and the halo mass function with weak gravitational lensing
Authors: Gu Shiming , Dor Marc-Antoine , van Waerbeke Ludovic , Asgari Marika , Mead Alexander , Tröster Tilman , Yan Ziang
Published: August 2023

The discrepancy between the weak lensing (WL) and the Planck measurements of S8 has been a subject of several studies. Assuming that residual systematics are not the cause, these studies tend to show that a strong suppression of the amplitude of the mass power spectrum P(k) in the late Universe at high k could resolve it. The WL signal at the small scale is sensitive to various effects not related to lensing, such as baryonic effects and intrinsic alignment. These effects are still poorly understood therefore the accuracy of P(k) depends on the modelling precision of these effects. A common approach for calculating P(k) relies on a halo model. Among the various components necessary for the construction of P(k) in the halo model framework, the halo mass function (HMF) is an important one. Traditionally, the HMF has been assumed to follow a fixed model, motivated by dark matter-only numerical simulations. Recent literature shows that baryonic physics, among several other factors, could affect the HMF. In this study, we investigate the impact of allowing the HMF to vary. This provides a way of testing the validity of the halo model-HMF calibration using data. In the context of the aforementioned S8 discrepancy, we find that the Planck cosmology is not compatible with the vanilla HMF for both the DES-y3 and the KiDS-1000 data. Moreover, when the cosmology and the HMF parameters are allowed to vary, the Planck cosmology is no longer in tension. The modified HMF predicts a matter power spectrum with a $\sim 25~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ power loss at k ∼ 1 h Mpc−1, in agreement with the recent studies that try to mitigate the S8 tension with modifications in P(k). We show that stage IV surveys will be able to measure the HMF parameters with a few per cent accuracy.
The extended ‘stellar halo’ of the Ursa Minor dwarf galaxy
Authors: Sestito Federico , Zaremba Daria , Venn Kim A , D’Aoust Lina , Hayes Christian , Jensen Jaclyn , Navarro Julio F , Jablonka Pascale , Fernández-Alvar Emma , Glover Jennifer , McConnachie Alan W , Chené André-Nicolas
Published: August 2023

Stellar candidates in the Ursa Minor (UMi) dwarf galaxy have been found using a new Bayesian algorithm applied to Gaia EDR3 data. Five of these targets are located in the extreme outskirts of UMi, from ∼5 to 12 elliptical half-light radii (rh), where rh(UMi) = 17.32 ± 0.11 arcmin, and have been observed with the high-resolution Gemini Remote Access to CFHT ESPaDOnS Spectrograph at the Gemini North telescope. Precise radial velocities (σRV < 2 km s−1) and metallicities ($\sigma _{\rm {{\rm [Fe/H]}}}\ \lt\ 0.2$ dex) confirm their memberships of UMi. Detailed analysis of the brightest and outermost star (Target 1, at ∼12rh), yields precision chemical abundances for the α (Mg, Ca, and Ti), odd-Z (Na, K, and Sc), Fe-peak (Fe, Ni, and Cr), and neutron-capture (Ba) elements. With data from the literature and APOGEE data release 17, we find the chemical patterns in UMi are consistent with an outside-in star-formation history that includes yields from core-collapse supernovae, asymptotic giant branch stars, and Type Ia supernovae. Evidence for a knee in the [α/Fe] ratios near [Fe/H] ∼ −2.1 indicates a low star-formation efficiency similar to that in other dwarf galaxies. Detailed analysis of the surface number density profile shows evidence that UMi’s outskirts have been populated by tidal effects, likely as a result of completing multiple orbits around the Galaxy.
Role of the Killer Immunoglobulin-like Receptor and Human Leukocyte Antigen I Complex Polymorphisms in Kaposi Sarcoma–Associated Herpesvirus Infection
Authors: Zhang Xin , Li Yi , Han Xinyu , Xu Yiyun , Wang Haili , Wang Tianye , Zhang Tiejun
Published: August 2023

Background

Kaposi sarcoma, caused by the pathogen Kaposi sarcoma–associated herpesvirus (KSHV), is the most common neoplasm for patients with AIDS. Susceptibility to KSHV has been associated with several different genetic risk variants. The purpose of this study was to test whether variants of killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) and their human leukocyte antigen (HLA-I) ligands influence the risk of KSHV infection.

Methods

A case-control study was performed in Xinjiang, a KSHV-endemic region of China. We recruited 299 individuals with HIV, including 123 KSHV-seropositive persons and 176 KSHV-seronegative controls. We used logistic regression and the MiDAS package to evaluate the association between KIR/HLA-I polymorphisms and KSHV infection.

Results

HLA-A*31:01, HLA-C*03:04, and HLA-C*12:03 were found to be associated with KSHV infection, with A*31:01 showing a protective effect under 3 different models (dominant: 0.30 [95% confidence interval {CI}, .08–.82], P = .031; additive: 0.30 [95% CI, .09–.80], P = .030; overdominant: 0.31 [95% CI, .09–.88], P = .042). The effect of A*31:01 might cause the variants of amino acid at HLA-A position 56, with individuals carrying an arginine having a lower KSHV infection risk. The increased homozygous KIR2DL3 was associated with a relatively high KSHV viral load (16.30% vs 41.94%, P = .010).

Conclusions

This study provides further insight into the link between HLA-I alleles and KIR genes and KSHV infection, highlighting KSHV-susceptible variants of HLA-I and KSHV replication caused by specific KIR genotype, and revealing a potential role of KIR-mediated natural killer cell activation in anti-KSHV infection.
Assessing the Measurement Properties of the Self-Administered Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale–Revised (ALSFRS-R): A Rasch Analysis
Authors: Mehdipour Ava , Teshler Lizabeth , Dal Bello-Haas Vanina , Richardson Julie , Beauchamp Marla , Turnbull John , Chum Marvin , Johnston Wendy , O’Connell Colleen , Luth Westerly , Kuspinar Ayse
Published: August 2023

Objective

The self-administered version of the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale–Revised (ALSFRS-R) is used to monitor function and disease progression in individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, the performance of the self-administered ALSFRS-R has not been assessed using Rasch Measurement Theory. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the self-administered ALSFRS-R using Rasch analysis.

Methods

Rasch analysis was performed on self-administered ALSFRS-R data from individuals with ALS across Canada. The following 6 aspects of Rasch analysis were examined using RUMM2030: fit via residuals and chi-square statistics, targeting via person-item threshold maps, dependency via item residual correlations, unidimensionality through principal components analysis of residuals, reliability via person separation index, and stability through differential item functioning analyses for sex, age, and language.

Results

Analysis was performed on 122 participants (mean age: 52.9 years; 62.8% men). The overall scale demonstrated good fit, reliability, and stability; however, multidimensionality was found. To address this issue, items were divided into 3 subscales (bulbar, motor, and respiratory function), and Rasch analysis was performed for each subscale. The subscales demonstrated good fit, reliability, stability, and unidimensionality. However, there were still issues with item dependency for all subscale and targeting for bulbar and respiratory subscales.

Conclusions

The self-administered ALSFRS-R is reliable, internally valid, and stable across sex, age, and language subgroups; however, it is recommended that the ALSFRS-R be scored by subscale. Future studies can look at revising and/or adding items to tackle misfit, redundancy, and ceiling effects.

Impact

Self-administered measures are simple to administer and inexpensive. The self-administered ALSFRS-R was found to be psychometrically sound and can be used as a tool to monitor disease progression and function in ALS.
The effects of CenteringPregnancy on maternal and infant health outcomes: a moderation analysis
Authors: Park Chul H , Driver Nichola , Richards Robert C , Ward Penny
Published: August 2023

Background

CenteringPregnancy (CP) has been expected to produce beneficial outcomes for women and their infants. However, previous studies paid little attention to testing variations in CP’s effects across women from different demographic groups. This study aimed to test how multiple demographic factors (obesity, race, ethnicity, marital status and socioeconomic status) moderate CP’s effects on health outcomes.

Methods

This study employed a quasi-experimental design. De-identified hospital birth data were collected from 216 CP participants and 1159 non-CP participants. We estimated the average treatment effect of CP on outcome variables as a baseline. Then we estimated the average marginal effect of CP by adding each of the moderating variables in regression adjustment models.

Results

CP produced salutary effects among those who were obese or overweight and unmarried as well as women with lower socioeconomic status. These salutary effects were also strengthened as maternal age increased. However, CP was ineffective for Hispanic/Latinx women.

Conclusions

CP produced more beneficial health outcomes for high-risk women such as obese, unmarried women and those with lower socioeconomic status. These are meaningful findings from a public health perspective.