bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skin-associated
Corynebacterium amycolatum
shares cobamides
Authors: Swaney M. H. , Henriquez N. , Campbell T. , Handelsman J. , Kalan L. R.
Published: December 2024

The underlying interactions that occur to maintain skin microbiome composition, function, and overall skin health are largely unknown. Often, these types of interactions are mediated by microbial metabolites. Cobamides, the vitamin B
12
family of cofactors, are essential for metabolism in many bacteria but are only synthesized by a fraction of prokaryotes, including certain skin-associated species. Therefore, we hypothesize that cobamide sharing mediates skin community dynamics. Preliminary work predicts that several skin-associated
Corynebacterium
species encode
de novo
cobamide biosynthesis and that their abundance is associated with skin microbiome diversity. Here, we show that commensal
Corynebacterium amycolatum
produces cobamides and that this synthesis can be tuned by cobalt limitation. To demonstrate cobamide sharing by
C. amycolatum
, we employed a co-culture assay using an
E. coli
cobamide auxotroph and showed that
C. amycolatum
produces sufficient cobamides to support
Escherichia coli
growth, both in liquid co-culture and when separated spatially on solid medium. We also generated a
C. amycolatum
non-cobamide-producing strain (cob
–
) using UV mutagenesis that contains mutated cobamide biosynthesis genes
cobK
(precorrin-6X reductase) and
cobO
(corrinoid adenosyltransferase) and confirm that disruption of cobamide biosynthesis abolishes the support of
E. coli
growth through cobamide sharing. Our study provides a unique model to study metabolite sharing by microorganisms, which will be critical for understanding the fundamental interactions that occur within complex microbiomes and for developing approaches to target the human microbiota for health advances.

IMPORTANCE

The human skin serves as a crucial barrier for the body and hosts a diverse community of microbes known as the skin microbiome. The interactions that occur to maintain a healthy skin microbiome are largely unknown but are thought to be driven in part, by nutrient sharing between species in close association. Here we show that the skin-associated bacteria
Corynebacterium amycolatum
produces and shares cobalamin, a cofactor essential for survival in organisms across all domains of life. This study provides a unique model to study metabolite sharing by skin microorganisms, which will be critical for understanding the fundamental interactions that occur within the skin microbiome and for developing therapeutic approaches aiming to engineer and manipulate the skin microbiota.
K-Mg salt distribution in the Zechstein Group of the Northern Permian Basin (UK and Norway)— Interplays with the Southern Permian Basin and implications for salt cavern development
Authors: Pichat Alexandre , Célini Naïm , Kergaravat Charlie
Published: December 2024

The Zechstein Group in the Northern Permian Basin (UK and south Norway sectors of the North Sea) is subdivided into four halite-rich evaporitic sequences. These sequences contain K-Mg salts, the amount and distribution of which are still poorly constrained. Understanding the lithological variations of the evaporites is important for understanding the syn- to post-salt basin evolution and for predicting the development of salt caverns. We compiled well data to perform intra-salt correlations and to constrain the stratal architecture of the halite-rich units. Our results enable refinement of depositional zones of the Zechstein Group in the Northern Permian Basin with emphasis on the spatial distribution of the K-Mg salt deposits. Our analysis suggests that K-Mg salts were preferentially precipitated in the Forth Approaches Basin and north of the West Central Shelf. This was likely the result of geographic position restricting the direct influx of marine water and early halokinetic movements associated with salt relief that promoted the development of isolated intra-salt minibasins. We then use the revised stratigraphy of the Zechstein Group to propose an evolutionary scenario of the Zechstein Group that considers both the Northern Permian Basin and the Southern Permian Basin and that highlights discrepancies in the bathymetric conditions of halite deposition and the spatial repartition of the K-Mg salts. Finally, our results allow an assessment of the potential risk of finding insoluble deposits or K-Mg salts in bedded salt, salt pillows, or salt diapirs that are otherwise suitable in terms of depth and thickness for the development of salt caverns in the Northern Permian Basin.
Late onset paediatric dacryoadenitis associated with SARS-CoV-2 confirmed by histological analysis
Authors: Yokoyama Koji , Sato Yasuharu , Suimon Yuka , Kase Satoru
Published: December 2024

We report a case of chronic dacryoadenitis associated with SARS-CoV-2, confirmed by histological analysis. A previously healthy school-aged boy was admitted to the paediatric department with a 1 month history of both eyebrow swelling and very mild pain in the upper parts of both eyelids. Gadolinium-enhanced T1-weighted MRI revealed enlargement of both lacrimal glands. Clinicopathological analysis confirmed bilateral chronic dacryoadenitis. Topical steroids were given, resulting in slow resolution over 2 months, and clinical stability at 10 months. The patient had experienced mild respiratory symptoms and tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 antigen via PCR testing, diagnosed as SARS-CoV-2, 3 months prior to the onset of dacryoadenitis. Inflammatory cells around the lacrimal gland demonstrated immunoreactivity for SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein. However, PCR testing of lacrimal fluid for SARS-CoV-2 was negative. This case illustrates protean complications and suggests a probable pathogenetic mechanism of dacryoadenitis associated with SARS-CoV-2.
Idiopathic hypoparathyroidism presenting as fatigue
Authors: Gaddehosur Mylaraiah Ravishankar , Kanakatte Sathyanarayan Soumya
Published: December 2024

Fatigue is a common symptom encountered in clinical practice, often posing a diagnostic challenge due to its myriad underlying causes. A comprehensive clinical history can serve as a valuable guide in such diagnostic dilemmas. A man in his 30s presented with a history of intermittent fatigue. The history of premature cataract surgery prompted an investigation for hypocalcaemia. Subsequent evaluation revealed hypocalcaemia, hyperphosphatemia and low serum parathyroid hormone. Additionally, elevated creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase levels were noted. Treatment with calcium and alfacalcidol yielded a favourable response. This case underscores the significance of revisiting clinical history and considering hypocalcaemia as a potential aetiology in cases of unexplained fatigue. It also emphasises the potential for overlooking the diagnosis due to the inconspicuous nature of hypocalcaemic myopathy in idiopathic hypoparathyroidism.
Clofazimine-induced crystalline keratopathy in a leprosy patient
Authors: Agarwal Richa , Tripathi Alka , Parveen Shadman , Agnihotri Kritika
Published: December 2024

A young male in his late 20s presented with brownish discolouration of the conjunctiva and periocular area of both eyes. He was diagnosed as a case of lepromatous leprosy with recurrent type II lepra reaction 4 years ago and was started on multidrug therapy-multi bacillary, which included clofazimine. The best-corrected visual acuity was 20/20 in both eyes. Examination revealed reddish-brown discolouration of the facial skin including the periorbital area and the eyelids, brownish discolouration of the conjunctiva with shiny sub-conjunctival deposits and multiple polychromatic refractile crystalline corneal deposits. Both eyes had clear lenses with normal fundus. On follow-up after 4 months of discontinuing clofazimine and again after 1 year, the deposits had decreased than previous visits, but they had not totally disappeared. Few studies documented similar ocular side effects of this drug. When diagnosing crystalline deposits in the cornea and conjunctiva, one should rule out clofazimine-induced crystalline keratopathy especially in a leprosy patient.
Combined chest wall perforator flap and synchronous fat grafting for partial breast reconstruction
Authors: Aggarwal Shweta , Faheem Michael
Published: December 2024

Chest wall perforator flaps (CWPFs) have been a well-recognised surgical option for volume replacement following breast conservation surgery (BCS). However, the flap volume can sometimes be limited, which may adversely affect the aesthetic outcome or even disqualify the patient from having BCS. We report the first case of hybrid partial breast reconstruction using immediate autologous fat injection into CWPF.
Lower limb necrotising fasciitis descending from malignant colonic perforation: a rare pattern
Authors: Robbie Elliot , Desai Seema , Ramavath Ashok
Published: December 2024

Necrotising fasciitis (NF) is a rare surgical emergency characterised by soft tissue necrosis and systemic compromise. Typically it originates following adjacent skin and soft tissue insult; however, our unusual case required a high index of clinical suspicion to avert potential mortality. A man in his 60s with diabetes mellitus presented with 2 weeks of knee pain, swelling and necrotic skin on the posterior calf. X-ray demonstrated subcutaneous emphysema. Initial debridement confirmed extensive necrotising fasciitis of the whole lower limb with tracking through femoral canal into the abdomen. CT confirmed sigmoid colon perforation. Both life-saving Hartmann’s and hip disarticulation procedures were performed with good outcomes. Histology confirmed locally invasive sigmoid colon adenocarcinoma. Our case highlights lower limb necrotising fasciitis as a rare complication secondary to sigmoid perforation associated with malignancy. In cases where the infection nidus cannot be identified, an abdominal source should be considered.
Methaemoglobinaemia in neonates with acute gastroenteritis: lethal, but curable
Authors: Morishetty Arjun , Balakrishnan Umamaheswari , Amboiram Prakash , Pradhan Saishree
Published: December 2024

Methaemoglobinaemia is a rare factor that can lead to cyanosis. The predominant cause of acquired methaemoglobinaemia is commonly attributed to anaesthetic agents. This case series presents three instances of acquired methaemoglobinaemia resulting from acute gastroenteritis caused by formula feeds. While uncommon, it is important to consider the potential occurrence of acquired methaemoglobinaemia because of acute gastroenteritis in newborns. This case series highlights the significance of promptly identifying and addressing the issue. The presence of metabolic acidosis and methaemoglobinaemia was detected and promptly treated by administering methylene blue and normal fluid therapy. Following that, the newborns have been discharged on exclusive breastfeeds. Despite being infrequent, the initial manifestation of these instances exhibited characteristics that deviated from the norm for a differential diagnosis in an infant experiencing hypoxia, metabolic acidosis and diarrhoea. It is crucial to promptly identify and administer methylene blue treatment to potentially rescue the life of the neonate.
Renal artery thrombosis with deterioration of kidney function
Authors: Gajić Selena
Published: December 2024

Renal artery thrombosis is an uncommon but serious cause of acute kidney injury that can result in permanent loss of function. It is frequently misdiagnosed due to its non-specific appearance, which can mimic renal colic and other more common causes of abdominal pain. There is no agreement on the first-line treatment and no prospective studies comparing thrombolysis, anticoagulation and embolectomy. We present a case of a patient with right renal artery thrombosis and acute kidney injury, in whom renal function was recovered with anticoagulation therapy.
Maternal and fetal responses to acute high-intensity resistance exercise during pregnancy
Authors: Moolyk Amy N , Wilson Megan K , Matenchuk Brittany A , Bains Gyanjot , Gervais Matthew J , Wowdzia Jenna B , Davenport Margie H
Published: December 2024

Objective

To examine maternal and fetal cardiovascular responses to high-intensity resistance exercise in pregnancy.

Methods

10 healthy pregnant (26.4±3.2 weeks gestation) and 10 healthy non-pregnant individuals were recruited (34.8±6 and 33.5±2.9 years, respectively). At least 48 hours after baseline strength testing to determine 10-repetition maximum (10 RM), participants completed 10 repetitions of barbell back squat, bench press and deadlift at 70%, 80% and 90% of 10 RM with free breathing, followed by 10 repetitions at 90% 10 RM with a Valsalva manoeuvre. Maternal heart rate was monitored continuously. Fetal heart rate, umbilical systolic/diastolic (S/D) ratio, resistive index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI), as well as maternal blood pressure, glucose and lactate were assessed immediately before and after exercise.

Results

The amount of weight lifted and the rate of perceived exertion by pregnant and non-pregnant participants were similar throughout each exercise. Maternal heart rate increased with the amount of weight lifted, peaking with the use of the Valsalva manoeuvre (squat: 137.3±8.4 bpm; bench press: 110.5±10.4 bpm; deadlift: 130.7±9.0 bpm). Fetal bradycardia was not observed, and fetal heart rate did not change from pre-to-post exercise (squat: p=0.639; bench press: p=0.682; deadlift: p=0.847). Umbilical blood flow metrics, such as RI, remained within normal ranges throughout each set of squats (p=0.642), bench press (p=0.287) and deadlifts (p=0.614).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that high-intensity resistance exercises are well tolerated by both mother and fetus, including while using the Valsalva manoeuvre.
Alzheimer’s disease mortality among taxi and ambulance drivers: population based cross sectional study
Authors: R Patel Vishal , Liu Michael , Worsham Christopher M , Jena Anupam B
Published: December 2024

Objective

To analyze mortality attributed to Alzheimer’s disease among taxi drivers and ambulance drivers, occupations that demand frequent spatial and navigational processing, compared with other occupations.

Design

Population based cross-sectional study.

Setting

Use of death certificates from the National Vital Statistics System in the United States, which were linked to occupation, 1 January 2020-31 December 2022.

Participants

Deceased adults aged 18 years and older.

Main outcomes measures

Among 443 occupations studied, percentage of deaths attributed to Alzheimer’s disease for taxi drivers and ambulance drivers and each of the remaining 441 occupations, adjusting for age at death and other sociodemographic factors.

Results

Of 8 972 221 people who had died with occupational information, 3.88% (348 328) had Alzheimer’s disease listed as a cause of death. Among taxi drivers, 1.03% (171/16 658) died from Alzheimer’s disease, while among ambulance drivers, the rate was 0.74% (10/1348). After adjustment, ambulance drivers (0.91% (95% confidence interval 0.35% to 1.48%)) and taxi drivers (1.03% (0.87% to 1.18%)) had the lowest proportion of deaths due to Alzheimer’s disease of all occupations examined. This trend was not observed in other transportation related jobs that are less reliant on real time spatial and navigational processing or for other types of dementia. Results were consistent whether Alzheimer’s disease was recorded as an underlying or contributing cause of death.

Conclusions

Taxi drivers and ambulance drivers, occupations involving frequent navigational and spatial processing, had the lowest proportions of deaths attributed to Alzheimer’s disease of all occupations.
Sequential exploratory mixed-method research of an eHealth intervention on blood pressure, sleep quality and physical activity in obstructive sleep apnoea: rationale and methodology of the Moore4Medical trial protocol
Authors: Valenzuela-Pascual Fran , Verdejo-Amengual Francisco Jose , Martinez-Navarro Oriol , Blanco-Blanco Joan , El Arab Rabie Adel , Rubinat-Arnaldo Esther , Masbernat-Almenara Maria , Rubí‑Carnacea Francesc , Manuel Martí Blanca , Barbé Ferran , Sanchez-de-la-Torre Manuel
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The management of a chronic and frequent pathology, such as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), requires personalised programmes that implement new technology-based tools to improve the comprehensive treatment of the patient to reduce the morbidity associated with this disease. This study will evaluate the effectiveness of an eHealth tool in managing the pathophysiological consequences of OSA and how they impact the quality of life after 3 months of intervention among adults.

Methods and analysis

This is a mixed-method sequential exploratory study protocol. Participants will be≥18 years with a new diagnosis of moderate OSA and diagnosed with hypertension. The qualitative phase will consist of personal semistructured interviews. The quantitative phase will be a triple-blind randomised controlled trial. The experimental group (n=135) will receive an eHealth intervention using an electronic wrist device and a mobile application that will offer specific healthcare recommendations, physical activity indications and hygienic and dietary advice. These recommendations will be based on the information obtained in the qualitative phase. Those in the control group (n=135) will receive the usual educational materials from the sleep unit. The primary outcome will be blood pressure changes at 3 months. Secondary outcomes are subjective sleep quality, sleep apnoea-related parameters, daytime sleepiness, physical activity, empowerment and motivation for change, quality of life, anthropometry, cost–benefit and adherence.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for the study has been obtained from the Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova (CEIC-2511). Results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT05380726.
Bile acids in the lower airways is associated with airway microbiota changes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: an observational study
Authors: Caparros-Martin Jose A , Saladié Montserrat , Agudelo-Romero S Patricia , Nichol Kristy S , Reen F Jerry , Moodley Yuben P , Mulrennan Siobhain , Stick Stephen , Wark Peter A B , O’Gara Fergal
Published: December 2024

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a complex disorder with a high degree of interindividual variability. Gastrointestinal dysfunction is common in patients with COPD and has been proposed to influence the clinical progression of the disease. Using the presence of bile acid(s) (BA) in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid as a marker of gastric aspiration, we evaluated the relationships between BAs, clinical outcomes and bacterial lung colonisation.

Methods

We used BAL specimens from a cohort of patients with COPD and healthy controls. BAs were profiled and quantified in BAL supernatants using mass spectrometry. Microbial DNA was extracted from BAL pellets and quantified using quantitative PCR. We profiled the BAL microbiota using an amplicon sequencing approach targeting the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene.

Results

Detection of BAs in BAL was more likely at the earliest clinical stages of COPD and was independent of the degree of airway obstruction. BAL specimens with BAs demonstrated higher bacterial biomass and lower diversity. Likewise, the odds of recovering bacterial cultures from BAL were higher if BAs were also detected. Detection of BAs in BAL was not associated with either inflammatory markers or clinical outcomes. We also observed different bacterial community types in BAL, which were associated with different clinical groups, levels of inflammatory markers and the degree of airway obstruction.

Conclusion

Detection of BAs in BAL was associated with alterations in the airway bacterial communities. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether BAs in BAL can be used to stratify patients and predict disease progression trajectories.
Rete anomaly of the middle cerebral artery: case series of 13 patients from the Northeastern United States
Authors: Ramaswamy Srinath , Colah Cyrus X , Guan Shaobo , Fayed Mahmoud , Spektor Vadim , Connolly E Sander , Willey Joshua
Published: December 2024

Background

Rete middle cerebral artery (MCA) is a rare anomaly of the intracranial circulation that mimics congenital Moyamoya disease (MMD). Similar to MMD, it is reported almost exclusively in East-Asian ethnicities. Here, we report 13 patients with rete MCA anomaly from a predominantly non-Asian background in the USA.

Methods

Consecutive patients (≥18 years of age) with rete MCA seen in the neurovascular clinic at Columbia University Medical Center (2014–2024) were included. We retrieved demographics, clinical presentation, imaging findings, neurosurgical interventions, and clinical outcomes.

Results

13 patients were identified (mean age 42±21 years, 83.3% female): 7 were White (53.8%), 3 were multiracial Hispanic (23.1%), 2 were South-Asian (15.4%), and 1 was Black (7.7%). Rete MCA was unilateral in all (n=13) and collaterals typical of MMD were absent. MRI vessel wall imaging (n=6) did not show enhancement characteristic of MMD. With serial imaging (n=12), there was no progression or contralateral MCA involvement. Strokes occurred in 5 (38.5%): subarachnoid hemorrhage (n=2), intracerebral hemorrhage (n=2), and ischemic stroke (n=1) from cardioembolism (n=1). 5 (38.5%) underwent neurosurgical bypass (encephaloduroarteriosynangiosis) due to presumed initial diagnosis of MMD (n=4), or for hypoperfusion on imaging related to rete MCA (n=1). Over a 4±3-year mean follow-up, there were no acute neurovascular events.

Conclusions

Rete MCA anomaly occurs in non-Asian populations, and is likely benign relative to MMD. The diagnosis should be considered with unilateral, non-progressive findings, and absent MMD-type collaterals. Neurosurgical bypass appears safe, but studies are required to assess the natural history and stroke risk in this condition.
Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome and future risk of dementia among individuals managed in UK general practice
Authors: Wang Jingya , Subramanian Anuradhaa , Cockburn Neil , Xiao Jingyi , Nirantharakumar Krishnarajah , Haroon Shamil
Published: December 2024

Background

Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) has been recognised as a potential risk factor for cognitive decline, yet its precise relationship with dementia remains uncertain. This study aimed to determine the risk of dementia among individuals with and without OSAS.

Methods

Data derived from 2.3 million adults (aged ≥18 years) were extracted from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (2000–2022), a nationally representative primary care electronic health records database in the UK. 193 600 individuals with OSAS were propensity score-matched to 536 701 individuals without OSAS. Cox proportional hazard regression models were applied to quantify the risk of developing all-cause dementia, vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease between individuals with and without OSAS.

Results

With a median follow-up of 4.0 (IQR 1.8–7.5) years, 2802 and 6211 individuals developed all-cause dementia in those with and without OSAS, corresponding to crude incidence rates of 2.47 and 2.34 per 1000 person-years, respectively. The presence of OSAS was associated with higher risks of all-cause dementia (adjusted HR (aHR) 1.12, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.17), vascular dementia (1.29, 95% CI 1.19 to 1.41) and unchanged risk of Alzheimer’s disease (1.07, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.16). Individuals with OSAS who had received continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment exhibited a similar risk of all-cause dementia as their matched counterparts (0.99, 95% CI 0.74 to 1.32).

Conclusion

OSAS is associated with higher risks of all-cause dementia and some of its subtypes. Further investigation is needed to investigate the clinical benefits of screening for cognitive impairment in people with OSAS and to further evaluate the impact of CPAP on cognitive decline and dementia risk.
Hospitalised older adults with community-acquired pneumonia and sepsis have dysregulated neutrophil function but preserved glycolysis
Authors: Grudzinska Frances , Faniyi Aduragbemi A , Belchamber Kylie B R , Chen Celine , Stockley Robert , Jasper Alice , Parekh Dhruv , Sapey Elizabeth , Scott Aaron , Thickett David R
Published: December 2024

Objective

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a leading cause of hospitalisation in older adults and is associated with a high likelihood of adverse outcomes. Given the ageing population and lack of therapeutic advances in CAP, new strategies to manage the burden of this disease are needed. Neutrophil dysfunction has been widely demonstrated in CAP and is associated with poor outcomes. We hypothesised that impaired glycolytic metabolism was driving neutrophil dysfunction in older adults with CAP.

Methods

To investigate the mechanism underlying neutrophil dysfunction in CAP, we recruited older adults with CAP and sepsis, age-matched controls and healthy young adults to assess neutrophil function and glycolytic metabolism in peripheral blood neutrophils.

Results

We demonstrate that neutrophils from older donors with CAP display a broad range of functional defects, including inaccurate migration to interleukin 8, impaired respiratory burst in response to phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and increased spontaneous degranulation compared with age-matched controls. Glycolysis (assessed by extracellular flux and RNA-sequencing) was not significantly altered between age-matched groups; however, basal rates of neutrophil glycolysis were significantly higher in patients with CAP and older adult controls compared with healthy young adults, and stimulated glycolysis was significantly higher in young adults compared with older adults with and without CAP.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that neutrophil dysfunction in older adults with CAP may be implicated in poor outcomes, irrespective of glycolytic metabolism.
The effectiveness of exercise referral schemes on patient health and their cost: an umbrella review
Authors: O'Brien Myles W. , Shivgulam Madeline E. , Liu Haoxuan , Courish Molly K. , Wu Yanlin , Fowles Jonathon R. , Nagpal Taniya S.
Published: December 2024

Exercise referral schemes (ERS) involving referrals from primary care providers to exercise programs and professionals may be a useful strategy for helping patients lead more active lifestyles. We performed an umbrella review to determine the impact of ERS on patient activity/fitness, clinical outcomes, and their cost-effectiveness. The review was pre-registered in Prospero (CRD42023443094) and conducted in July 2023. PRISMA reporting was followed. Our umbrella review screened 2129 citations with 12 studies meeting our inclusion criteria ( n = 8 meta-analyses) that included 110 unique individual studies of 62 815 unique participants. The average study quality was 8.9 ± 1.9 (out of 11). Studies examined patient physical activity or fitness ( n = 9/12), a clinical outcome ( n = 8/12), and/or cost-effectiveness ( n = 4/12). Earlier reviews observed that physical activity or fitness was unchanged following ERS, but more recent (post-2015), larger sample size studies observe low-to-moderate improvements. Recent reviews reported that ERS lowered blood pressure, body mass index, and depression. ERS cost-effectiveness was conflicting. Altogether our umbrella review of high-quality reviews with a low risk of bias demonstrated that although early work indicated null effects, more up-to-date reviews of ERS observe improved patient activity/fitness, cardiometabolic, and mental health. ERS are an effective strategy to improve patient health.
Assessing the potential of upcoming laser-driven neutron sources and their practical applications for industry and society
Authors: Zimmer Marc , Rösch Thomas F. , Scheuren Stefan , Seupel Thomas , Jäger Tim , Kohl Jonas , Hofmann Daniel , Schaumann Gabriel , Roth Markus
Published: December 2024

Laser-driven neutron sources (LDNS) are an emerging technology with significant potential. The most promising types of LDNS are based on laser wakefield acceleration or target normal sheath acceleration, driven in a “pitcher-catcher” configuration. In this publication, we estimate the performance of LDNS once they have been optimized for industrial-scale usage and identify for which applications they can be used. For this purpose, we evaluate the current laser developments and identify the three most promising laser systems that can be used to cover the most relevant applications. A scaling system is then derived to predict the neutron production rate for each of the three systems. The first system is expected to produce $$8 \times 10^{8}\,\hbox {n}\,\hbox {s}^{-1}$$

8
×

10
8

n

s

-
1

to $$8 \times 10^{9}\,\hbox {n}\,\hbox {s}^{-1}$$

8
×

10
9

n

s

-
1

for thermalized neutrons. The second one $${1 \times 10^{11}}\,\hbox {n}\,\hbox {s}^{-1}$$

1
×

10
11

n

s

-
1

for fast neutrons and the third one $$1 \times 10^{14}\,\hbox {n}\,\hbox {s}^{-1}$$

1
×

10
14

n

s

-
1

to $$1 \times 10^{15}\,\hbox {n}\,\hbox {s}^{-1}$$

1
×

10
15

n

s

-
1

fast neutrons. This is followed by an evaluation of possible applications that can be driven with each of the different LDNS system. We conclude with a comparison of the scaling law and the neutron production rate to existing experimental data and scaling laws from other groups to evaluate the accuracy of the model and the estimates for the different applications.
AGRICULTURE LAND USE EFFICIENCY IN RAPID URBANIZED CHINA, 2006–2022
Authors: ZHAO HAIPENG , HAN ZE , DENG XIANGZHENG
Published: December 2024

Researchers worldwide have examined the intricate aspects of land use efficiency. Despite their efforts, a clear consensus remains elusive, especially in comparing the efficiency of construction and agricultural land in the context of Chinese rapid urbanization. This study uses the Malmquist index to conduct a detailed analysis of Total Factor Productivity (TFP), technological progress, technological efficiency, pure technical efficiency and scale efficiency for agricultural and construction land across 31 provinces in China from 2006 to 2022. The findings reveal fluctuating but generally stable TFP in China’s agricultural sector during this period. A closer examination of TFP shows that technological progress has a more significant impact than technical efficiency. The technical efficiency of agricultural land, driven mainly by pure technical efficiency and scale efficiency, highlights a crucial aspect of the Chinese agricultural sector. In contrast, construction land in China experienced steady TFP growth throughout the same period. The analysis indicates that the technical efficiency of construction land relies heavily on pure technical efficiency. A province-specific analysis from 2006 to 2022 shows that Shanghai experienced a unique decline in agricultural land TFP compared to the previous year, while all other provinces showed an upward trend. Similarly, Heilongjiang and Jiangxi recorded decreases in construction land TFP compared to the previous years, whereas other provinces showed overall improvements.
Bitcoin return volatility forecasting using nonparametric GARCH models
Authors: Mestiri Sami
Published: December 2024

Bitcoin has received a lot of attention from both investors and analysts, as it forms the highest market capitalization in the cryptocurrency market. The use of parametric GARCH models to characterize the volatility of Bitcoin returns is widely observed in the empirical literature. In this paper, we consider an alternative approach involving nonparametric method to model and forecast Bitcoin return volatility. We show that the out-of-sample volatility forecast of the nonparametric GARCH model yields superior performance relative to an extensive class of parametric GARCH models. The improvement in forecasting accuracy of Bitcoin return volatility based on the nonparametric GARCH model suggests that this method offers an attractive and viable alternative to the commonly used parametric GARCH models.
Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Single Center Retrospective Study in Malaysia
Authors: Leong Piem Jie , Salleh Anna Farazilah Mohd
Published: December 2024

Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, laboratory findings, treatments, and their impact on the outcome of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)-related diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) in our local setting.

Methods: A total of seven patients were selected from our hospital’s local SLE database between 2013 and 2024 based on the inclusion criteria. Various variables were captured and analyzed using the Mann-Whitney [Formula: see text] test or Fisher’s exact test for comparison where appropriate.

Results: All seven patients were female, with a median age of 26 years, and the median duration of SLE before DAH was 3 months. More than half were presented with all three symptoms: fever (57%), dyspnea (71.4%), and hemoptysis (85.7%). Kidney involvement was present in all cases. All patients received methylprednisolone as initial treatment with 71.4% subsequently received plasmapheresis, 57% received cyclophosphamide, 28.6% received intravenous immunoglobulin, and 14.3% received rituximab. Five out of the seven patients required invasive mechanical ventilation. The mortality rate was 57%. Two out of three survivors received a combination of multiple immunosuppressive agents. Non-survivors had significantly higher acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) scores ([Formula: see text] = 0.034), while other variables were not statistically linked to mortality. In spite of that, all patients with nosocomial infection did not survive.

Conclusion: Our observational study showed that a higher APACHE-II score was associated with a higher mortality rate. The efficacy of these treatment modalities cannot be conclusively determined due to the small sample size of this study. However, a combination of multiple immunosuppressive agents appeared to be associated with better outcomes in some patients.
Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning based Edge Content Caching for Connected Autonomous Vehicles in IoV
Authors: Xu Xiaolong , Gu Linjie , Bilal Muhammad , Khan Maqbool , Wen Yiping , Liu Guoqiang , Yuan Yuan
Published: December 2024

Connected Autonomous Vehicle (CAV) Driving, as a data-driven intelligent driving technology within the Internet of Vehicles (IoV), presents significant challenges to the efficiency and security of real-time data management. The combination of Web3.0 and edge content caching holds promise in providing low-latency data access for CAVs’ real-time applications. Web3.0 enables the reliable pre-migration of frequently requested content from content providers to edge nodes. However, identifying optimal edge node peers for joint content caching and replacement remains challenging due to the dynamic nature of traffic flow in IoV. Addressing these challenges, this article introduces GAMA-Cache, an innovative edge content caching methodology leveraging Graph Attention Networks (GAT) and Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning (MARL). GAMA-Cache conceptualizes the cooperative edge content caching issue as a constrained Markov decision process. It employs a MARL technique predicated on cooperation effectiveness to discern optimal caching decisions, with GAT augmenting information extracted from adjacent nodes. A distinct collaborator selection mechanism is also developed to streamline communication between agents, filtering out those with minimal correlations in the vector input to the policy network. Experimental results demonstrate that, in terms of service latency and delivery failure, the GAMA-Cache outperforms other state-of-the-art MARL solutions for edge content caching in IoV.
Optimal approximation of the 1/
x
function using Chebyshev polynomials and magic constants
Authors: Walczyk Cezary J. , Moroz Leonid V. , Samotyy Volodymyr , Cieśliński Jan L.
Published: December 2024

In this paper we analyze low-cost accurate approximation of the function

\(1/x\)

using Chebyshev polynomials of the first kind and minimizing number of elementary operations in computer codes (in particular, by using the so called magic constants). It is shown that Newton-Raphson iterative method is not optimal and a new approach is proposed. We prove that optimal Chebyshev polynomials can be factorized in terms of Chebyshev polynomials of lower order which leads to new -optimal- iteration schemes. We also construct a family of new algorithms by dividing the considered interval into sub-intervals where different magic constants and multiplicative factors are used (in order to increase the accuracy). Theoretical considerations and proofs are completed with numerical tests on three types of microcontroller processors.
Large Language Model for Vulnerability Detection and Repair: Literature Review and the Road Ahead
Authors: Zhou Xin , Cao Sicong , Sun Xiaobing , Lo David
Published: December 2024

The significant advancements in Large Language Models (LLMs) have resulted in their widespread adoption across various tasks within Software Engineering (SE), including vulnerability detection and repair. Numerous studies have investigated the application of LLMs to enhance vulnerability detection and repair tasks. Despite the increasing research interest, there is currently no existing survey that focuses on the utilization of LLMs for vulnerability detection and repair. In this paper, we aim to bridge this gap by offering a systematic literature review of approaches aimed at improving vulnerability detection and repair through the utilization of LLMs. The review encompasses research work from leading SE, AI, and Security conferences and journals, encompassing 43 papers published across 25 distinct venues, along with 15 high-quality preprint papers, bringing the total to 58 papers. By answering three key research questions, we aim to (1) summarize the LLMs employed in the relevant literature, (2) categorize various LLM adaptation techniques in vulnerability detection, and (3) classify various LLM adaptation techniques in vulnerability repair. Based on our findings, we have identified a series of limitations of existing studies. Additionally, we have outlined a roadmap highlighting potential opportunities that we believe are pertinent and crucial for future research endeavors.
Dancing through Time: An Interactive Installation to Discover a Dance Audiovisual Archive
Authors: Alliata Giacomo , Kenderdine Sarah
Published: December 2024

Dancing through Time
is an interactive installation created to discover the Prix de Lausanne archive, a collection of dance performances recordings over fifty-one years. It consists in a 4k-touch screen mounted on a twelve-meter rail, offering visitors the opportunity to walk through the fifty-one editions of the Prix de Lausanne dance competition. This paper presents the installation and the results of an extensive evaluation on users’ questionnaires. Our main findings validate
Dancing through Time
in terms of User Experience and User Engagement, indicating that receiving prior instructions only affects the latter. Furthermore, the interaction logs with the application inform us on the benefits on browsing through the entire collection, increasing watch time and distance travelled through time. Finally, we extracted different users’ interaction behaviors to better understand how visitors engaged with
Dancing through Time
in the situated context of the 2024 edition.
Parallelize Single-Site Dynamics up to Dobrushin Criterion
Authors: Liu Hongyang , Yin Yitong
Published: December 2024

Single-site dynamics are canonical Markov chain based algorithms for sampling from high-dimensional distributions, such as the Gibbs distributions of graphical models. We introduce a simple and generic parallel algorithm that faithfully simulates single-site dynamics. Under a much relaxed, asymptotic variant of the ℓ

p

-Dobrushin’s condition—where the Dobrushin’s influence matrix has a bounded ℓ

p

-induced operator norm for an arbitrary
p
∈ [1, ∞]—our algorithm simulates
N
steps of single-site updates within a parallel depth of
O
(
N
/
n
+log
n
) on Õ(
m
) processors, where
n
is the number of sites and
m
is the size of the graphical model. For Boolean-valued random variables, if the ℓ

p

-Dobrushin’s condition holds—specifically, if the ℓ

p

-induced operator norm of the Dobrushin’s influence matrix is less than 1—the parallel depth can be further reduced to
O
(log
N
+ log
n
), achieving an exponential speedup.

These results suggest that single-site dynamics with near-linear mixing times can be parallelized into RNC sampling algorithms, independent of the maximum degree of the underlying graphical model, as long as the Dobrushin influence matrix maintains a bounded operator norm. We show the effectiveness of this approach with RNC samplers for the hardcore and Ising models within their uniqueness regimes, as well as an RNC SAT sampler for satisfying solutions of conjunctive normal form formulas in a local lemma regime. Furthermore, by employing non-adaptive simulated annealing, these RNC samplers can be transformed into RNC algorithms for approximate counting.
Ni–Co MOF Flowers/ZnO NRs Mediated Electrochemical Sensor for Rapid and Ultrasensitive Detection of Neotame in Food Samples
Authors: Manuel Manju , Kanchi Suvardhan
Published: December 2024

This study focuses on the bioreduction of waste-derived graphite rods into reduced graphene oxide(rGO), followed by the fabrication with Ni-Co metal-organic flowers and Zinc oxide nanorods(ZnO NRs) using Nafion, for sensitive detection of neotame. The Ni-Co metal-organic flowers and ZnO NRs were synthesized using solvothermal synthesis and Azadirachta indica leaf extract, respectively. Additionally, Nafion polymer enhances the stability and conductivity of the nanocomposite. The nanocomposite was characterized using UV–vis, Fourier transform infrared spectorscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, Dynamic light scattering, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Field-emission scanning electron microscopy, Energy-dispersive X-ray analsysis, Transmission electron microscopy, and Atomic force microscopy. The electrochemical studies were carried out using Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and Cyclic voltammetry. The modified electrode (rGO/Nafion/Ni-Co MOF/ZnO NRs) demonstrated improved electrochemical activity (34.01 μA) for neotame with an enhanced peak current at +0.73 V. The LOD and LOQ values were calculated and found to be 0.32 and 0.99 μM with a recovery (%) ranging from 94.50 to 101.34%. The outcome of this study identifies the morphological and electrochemical factors as major contributors to the adsorption affinities and catalytical activities, with promising possibilities for the design of electrochemical sensing of artificial sweeteners.
A Cone-Like TSV Structured ZnO NO2 Gas Sensor that is Produced Using Room-Temperature Laser Drilling and Radio-Frequency Sputtering
Authors: Wen Chih-Kai , Chen Zhi-Sheng , Hsueh Ting-Jen
Published: December 2024

A typical through-silicon via (TSV) has vertical and high aspect ratio holes, making special equipment required to deposit the film on the vertical hole walls. This study used room-temperature laser drilling to fabricate a cone-like TSV structure so that no special process equipment was required. Radio-frequency sputtering was used to deposit SiNx, ITO, and ZnO films on the cone-like TSV structure to form a ZnO NO2 gas sensor. Scanning electron microscopy and focused ion beam results show that the ZnO film connects the front and back sides of the substrate, enabling sensing on both sides. If the concentration of NO2 gas is increased, the sensor response increases and the average sensor response is 34,7%, with an inaccuracy of <± 1% for five 5 consecutive measurements using a NO2 concentration of 3ppm. Reactions with NH3, CO, CO2, and SO2 gases are almost insignificant, giving the cone-like TSV structure ZnO gas sensor good selectivity, stability, and reproducibility for NO2 gas.
Synthesis of Porous Anodic Alumina Featuring a Periodic Pore Structure by Regulating the Anode Temperature
Authors: Xie K. Z. , Li Y. , Che X. T. , Cheng J. H. , Hu X. , Ling Z. Y.
Published: December 2024

Porous anodic alumina (PAA) with a periodic pore structure has been synthesized by using an innovative preparation method. The morphology of PAA pores can be modulated within the same electrolyte by adjusting the temperature of the aluminum anode, enabling periodic variations in pore size (D

p
). The formation mechanism of PAA has been elucidated through analyses of micromorphology, anodization current density (i
a), interpore distance (D

int
), and D

p
of the samples. Results indicate that the average D

int
for the synthesized PAA is approximately 260–340 nm, while the average D

p
ranges from 90 to 260 nm. Both i
a and D

p
exhibit periodic fluctuations corresponding to changes in anode temperature under consistent electrolyte conditions and anodization voltage (U
a). Lateral pores are generated via a phosphoric acid etching process, resulting in PAA with a distinctive three-dimensional interconnected pore architecture. Furthermore, ridges with an arc-like shape on the outer walls of PAA pores have been observed; their formation mechanism can be effectively explained by the convection model and the viscous flow model. These findings contribute significantly to achieving precise control over the pore structure of PAA.
Student perceptions of the usefulness of core concepts when reasoning in physiology
Authors: Cole Elijah J. , Doherty Jennifer H.
Published: December 2024

We explore how students perceive the benefits of using physiology core concepts in their learning. Students believe core concepts guide and strengthen their reasoning across topics, while improving their confidence in their ability to understand and reason. Our findings provide useful insights for educators on why and how they should integrate the core concepts of physiology into their teaching.
Health Workers’ Job Satisfaction and Associated Factors at Public Primary Healthcare Centers in Hargeisa, Somaliland: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Mohamed Ridwan A. , Salih Omran
Published: December 2024

This study investigates health workers’ job satisfaction and its associated factors at public primary healthcare centers in Hargeisa, Somaliland. The study aims to understand the levels of job satisfaction among health workers and identify the organizational and individual factors that contribute to their satisfaction. The research was conducted using a cross‐sectional survey design, with data collected from 248 healthcare workers in 13 public health centers from 651 professionals in 26 healthy centers from November 15, 2023, to June 12, 2024. The sample is selected using simple random sampling and convenient sampling techniques of health centers and participants. Data were collected with a pretested administered questionnaire. Data were entered into SPSS and analyzed using Stata 17 software. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis was used. Statistical significance was determined by considering p‐values below 0.05. The results showed that a total of 651 selected from 248 participants were involved in the study. The overall level of job satisfaction among healthcare workers was 62.50% of respondents reported being satisfied, while 37.50% indicated being dissatisfied. While workers aged 31–40 had an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 0.32 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.13–0.77, p ≤ 0.011), a satisfied salary (AOR = 7.10, 95% CI = 3.19–15.7, p ≤ 0.001), being a midwife or medical doctor, was significantly associated with higher job satisfaction (AOR = 5.38, 95% CI = 1.31–22.0, p ≤ 0.019; AOR = 17.3, 95% CI = 2.16–138, p ≤ 0.007), respectively. A satisfied professional type is also significantly associated with higher job satisfaction (AOR = 2.53, 95% CI = 1.14–5.60, p ≤ 0.021). The findings of this study recommend that the age group of 31–40 has a satisfied salary, professional type (midwives and medical doctors), and satisfied professional type to enhance the job satisfaction of healthcare workers further.