bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of conductive ink alternation on the sustainability and functioning of printed electronics
Authors: Naji Nassajfar Mohammad , Välimäki Marja , Hakola Liisa , Eiroma Kim , Immonen Kirsi , Abdulkareem Mariam , Horttanainen Mika
Published: May 2023

The demand for printed electronics (PE) is expected to increase for improved functionality and autonomy of products in the context of the Internet of Things, especially for sensing and communication. With this trend, the environmental performance of novel technologies is of growing importance, and researchers are exploring ways to make them more environmentally friendly using bio-based substrates and additive printing methods. Conductive inks have the highest environmental impact in the life cycle of PE, and there are two options to decrease the impact: increase recycling rates or replace commonly used silver inks with less impactful materials such as copper or graphite. With the current mixed waste management system, a higher recycling rate for silver is not achievable. Copper and graphite have a lower environmental impact than silver, however, the electrical conductivity of copper and graphite inks is lower than silver ink. This article introduces a double-parameter comparison to simultaneously assess the environmental and electrical conductivity of PE using three inks of silver, copper, and graphite inks. Then based on the technical feasibility, this study proposes suitable applications for each substrate and ink combination.
Role of Fe in the hydrogen oxidation reaction in a NiFe-based catalyst: an in situ Mössbauer spectroscopic investigation
Authors: Ni Lingmei , Davydova Elena S , Singh Ramesh K , Kolik-Shmuel Lubov , Dekel Dario R , Kramm Ulrike I
Published: May 2023

Nickel-based catalysts reach a high activity for the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) in anion exchange membrane fuel cells. While incorporation of iron significantly decreases the HOR overpotential on NiFe-based catalysts, the reason for the enhanced activity remains only partially understood. For the first time, in situ
57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy is used to gain insights into the iron-related composition at different potentials. The aim is to evaluate which changes occur on iron at potentials relevant for the HOR on the active Ni sites. It is found that different pre-conditionings at low potentials stabilize the iron at a low oxidation state as compared to the as-prepared catalyst powder. It is likely that the lower average oxidation state enables a higher exchange current density and a more efficient OH adsorption, which make the Volmer step much faster in the HOR. Insights from in situ Mössbauer spectroscopy enlighten the role of iron in the nickel-iron catalyst, paving the way for developing improved Ni-based catalysts for HOR catalysis.
Induction equivalence for equivariant 𝒟-modules on rigid analytic spaces
Authors: Ardakov Konstantin
Published: May 2023

We prove an Induction Equivalence and a Kashiwara Equivalence for coadmissible equivariant

D

\mathcal {D}

-modules on rigid analytic spaces. This allows us to completely classify such objects with support in a single orbit of a classical point with co-compact stabiliser. As an application, we use the locally analytic Beilinson-Bernstein equivalence to construct new examples of large families of topologically irreducible locally analytic representations of certain compact semisimple

p
p

-adic Lie groups.
A short basis of the Stickelberger ideal of a cyclotomic field
Authors: Bernard Olivier , Kučera Radan
Published: May 2023

We exhibit an explicit short basis of the Stickelberger ideal of cyclotomic fields of any conductor

m
m

, i.e., a basis containing only short elements. An element

∑

σ
∈

G
m

ε

σ

σ

\sum _{\sigma \in G_m} \varepsilon _{\sigma }\sigma

of the group ring

Z

[

G

m

]

\mathbb {Z}[G_{m}]

, where

G
m

G_m

is the Galois group of the field, is said to be short if all of its coefficients

ε

σ

\varepsilon _{\sigma }

are

0
0

 or 

1
1

.

As a direct practical consequence, we deduce from this short basis an explicit upper bound on the relative class number that is valid for any conductor. This basis also has several concrete applications, in particular for the cryptanalysis of the Shortest Vector Problem on Ideal Lattices.
On characteristics of the range of kernel operators
Authors: Gerlach Moritz , Glück Jochen
Published: May 2023

We show that a positive operator between

L
p

L^p

-spaces is given by integration against a kernel function if and only if the image of each positive function has a lower semi-continuous representative with respect to a suitable topology. This is a consequence of a new characterization of kernel operators on general Banach lattices as those operators whose range can be represented over a fixed countable set of positive vectors. Similar results are shown to hold for operators that merely dominate a non-trivial kernel operator.
Integrability in the weak noise theory
Authors: Tsai Li-Cheng
Published: May 2023

We consider the variational problem associated with the Freidlin–Wentzell Large Deviation Principle (LDP) for the Stochastic Heat Equation (SHE). For a general class of initial-terminal conditions, we show that a minimizer of this variational problem exists, and any minimizer solves a system of imaginary-time Nonlinear Schrödinger equations. This system is integrable. Utilizing the integrability, we prove that the formulas from the physics work (see Alexandre Krajenbrink and Pierre Le Doussal [Phys. Rev. Lett. 127 (2021), p. 8]) hold for every minimizer of the variational problem. As an application, we consider the Freidlin–Wentzell LDP for the SHE with the delta initial condition. Under a technical assumption on the poles of the reflection coefficients, we prove the explicit expression for the one-point rate function that was predicted in the physics works (see Pierre Le Doussal, Satya N. Majumdar, Alberto Rosso, and Grégory Schehr [Phys. Rev. Lett. 117 (2016), p. 070403]; Alexandre Krajenbrink and Pierre Le Doussal [Phys. Rev. Lett. 127 (2021), p. 8]). Under the same assumption, we give detailed pointwise estimates of the most probable shape in the upper-tail limit.
Elliptic equations in Sobolev spaces with Morrey drift and the zeroth-order coefficients
Authors: Krylov N.
Published: May 2023

We consider elliptic equations with operators

L
=

a

i
j

D

i
j

+

b

i

D

i

−
c

L=a^{ij}D_{ij}+b^{i}D_{i}-c

with

a
a

being almost in VMO,

b
b

in a Morrey class containing

L

d

L_{d}

, and

c
≥
0

c\geq 0

in a Morrey class containing

L

d

/

2

L_{d/2}

. We prove the solvability in Sobolev spaces of

L
u
=
f
∈

L

p

Lu=f\in L_{p}

in bounded

C

1
,
1

C^{1,1}

-domains, and of

λ
u
−
L
u
=
f

\lambda u-Lu=f

in the whole space for any

λ
>
0

\lambda >0

. Weak uniqueness of the martingale problem associated with such operators is also discussed.
Motivational Interviewing in Pediatric Obesity: A Meta-analysis of the Effects on Behavioral Outcomes
Authors: Kao Tsui-Sui A , Ling Jiying , Vu Christina , Hawn Rachel , Christodoulos Harrietta
Published: May 2023

Background

Currently, the effects of motivational interviewing (MI) on children’s behavioral changes remain obscure.

Purpose

This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of MI on children’s lifestyle behavioral changes (fruits and vegetables [F/V], dairy, sugary beverages, calories, snacks, fat intake, moderate vigorous physical activity [MVPA], and screen time).

Methods

Six databases (CINAHL, Cochrane, Embase, PsycINFO, PubMed, and Web of Sciences) from 2005 to 2022 were searched. Thirty-one intervention studies with a comparison group met the criteria. Random-effects models were performed to estimate the pooled effects; exploratory moderation analyses with mixed-effects models were used to explore potential intervention moderators.

Results

The pooled effect size was 0.10 (p = .334) on ↑F/V, 0.02 (p = .724) on ↑dairy, −0.29 (p < .001) on ↓calories, −0.16 (p = .054) on ↓sugary beverages, −0.22 (p = .002) on ↓snacks, −0.20 (p = .044) on ↓fat, 0.22 (p = .001) on ↑MVPA, and −0.06 (p = .176) on ↓screen time. The effects of MIs were moderated by ↑MI sessions regarding ↓snacks (B = −0.04, p = .010). Multicomponent and clinical programs had greater effects on dairy intake than their counterparts (0.09 vs. −0.21, p = .034; 0.12 vs. −0.14, p = .027, respectively). Similarly, interventions with a fidelity check resulted in greater dairy intake than those without a check (0.29 vs. −0.15, p = .014). A few long-term follow-up assessments revealed effects on ↓F/V (−0.18; p = .143, k = 2), ↓dairy (−0.13, p = .399, k = 4), ↓MVPA (−0.04; p = .611, k = 6), and ↑screen time (0.12; p = .242, k = 4).

Conclusions

Our findings support the short-term effects of MI on improving children’s lifestyle behaviors. Additional investigations are needed to better sustain children’s long-term behavioral changes.
Innovative Strategies for Remotely Sampling Hard-to-Reach Populations: Assessing Phone Versus Internet Respondent-Driven Sampling Approaches Among Venezuelan Refugees and Migrants in Colombia
Authors: Pham Phuong N , Johnston Lisa G , Keegan Katrina , Wei Carol , Vinck Patrick
Published: May 2023

It is challenging to quantitatively measure the health vulnerability and risk factors of refugees and migrants residing outside of formal settlement settings. For hard-to-reach populations without available sampling frames, researchers have increasingly turned to novel sampling and statistical methods, like respondent-driven sampling (RDS). “Standard” RDS is typically conducted face-to-face at fixed sites. However, during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, face-to-face survey methods and recruitment approaches posed high potential risk of virus transmission and infection, making remote RDS approaches optimal. In this paper, we explore the feasibility of implementing telephone and Internet RDS strategies to assess challenges faced by Venezuelan refugees and migrants in the city of Bogotá, Colombia’s capital, and the department of Norte de Santander, the main Venezuelan-Colombian border crossing site. We describe RDS assumptions, survey design, formative research, and the implementation of both strategies and present diagnostics for determining whether assumptions are met. Phone-based recruitment strategies in both locations and the Internet strategy in Bogotá achieved their calculated sample size; however, the Internet strategy in Norte de Santander did not. Most RDS assumptions were sufficiently met at sites where sample sizes were reached. These surveys provide valuable lessons for implementing innovative remote strategies with which to study hard-to-reach populations such as refugees and migrants.
The presence of intratumoral Porphyromonas gingivalis correlates with a previously defined pancreatic adenocarcinoma, immune cell expression phenotype and with tumor resident, adaptive immune receptor features
Authors: Kinskey Jacob C , Huda Taha I , Gozlan Etienne C , Quach Jessica U , Arturo Juan F , Chobrutskiy Andrea , Chobrutskiy Boris I , Blanck George
Published: May 2023

The association between pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) and the pancreatic microbiome is not fully understood, although bacteria may decrease the effectiveness of chemotherapy and lead to anti-apoptotic, pro-inflammatory microenvironments. To better understand the relationship between the PAAD microbiome and the microenvironment, we identified Porphyromonas gingivalis-positive PAAD samples and found a strong association between intratumoral P. gingivalis and: (i) an immune cell gene expression phenotype previously defined by others as gene program 7; and (ii) recovery of immunoglobulin recombination, sequencing reads. We applied a novel chemical complementarity scoring algorithm, suitable for a big data setting, and determined that the previously established P. gingivalis antigen, rpgB had a reduced chemical complementarity with T-cell receptor (TCR) complementarity-determining region-3 amino acid sequences recovered from PAAD samples with P. gingivalis in comparison to TCR-rpgB chemical complementarity represented by the PAAD samples that lacked P. gingivalis. This finding strengthens the existing body of evidence correlating P. gingivalis with PAAD, which may have implications for the treatment and prognosis of patients. Furthermore, demonstrating the correlation of P. gingivalis and gene program 7 raises the question of whether P. gingivalis infection is responsible for the gene program 7 subdivision of PAAD?
Support local: Google Maps’ local guides platform, spatial power and constructions of “the local”
Authors: Bhandari Aparajita , Noone Rebecca
Published: May 2023

Experiences within cities are increasingly mediated by digital platforms such as Google Maps; thus, it has become imperative to establish critical frameworks to understand the spatial relationships these platforms reinforce and produce. Google draws on “local” knowledge through its Local Guides platform to add location-based data in the form of reviews and rankings to Google Maps. Through a critical technocultural discourse analysis (CTDA) of the Local Guides platform’s rhetoric and Local Guides’ reviews across varying sites in Toronto, we compare and contrast the ways the platform constructs user-mediated local participation with the actual content the platform produces. We complicate Google’s claims to supporting the local by identifying review practices and patterns that use the platform to target and harass workers. We argue that the reviews reveal who and what belongs to the platform’s construction of “the local,” while at the same time rendering hyper-visible what it constructs as not belonging.
Reflections and Revolutions: The Role of AI in A Changing World
Authors: Shirley Dame Stephanie
Published: May 2023

Global IT entrepreneur, workplace revolutionary, philanthropist, and first female former President of BCS Dame Stephanie Shirley CH DBE FREng FBCS reflects on her time in the industry and considers the origins and implications of AI.
Cyberwar and Ukraine: One Year On
Authors: Penketh Claire
Published: May 2023

Since invading Ukraine a year ago, Russia has used cyber-attacks, disinformation and hacking as weapons of war. But where are we now, and what are the implications for Ukraine and further afield? Claire Penketh MBCS reports.
If Babbage Had Been an IT Professional…
Authors: Runciman Brian
Published: May 2023

BCS has been championing the concept of professionalism almost from its inception. In early 2023 we asked members what professionalism means to them today, as BCS looks at further codifying its professionalism approach. Brian Runciman MBCS reports.
Leadership
Authors: Hall Jon G
Published: May 2023

Jon G. Hall CITP FBCS explores organisational information flows and encourages leaders to take a walk through theirs.
Attracting the Best Talent by Being A Great Workplace
Authors: Cooper Martin
Published: May 2023

The market for top IT talent is incredibly competitive. Helen Thomas, CEO of Digital Health and Care Wales (DHCW), tells Martin Cooper MBCS why communicating your values can help you find and retain the best people.
Could the Lights Go Out in Europe?
Authors: Proctor Tony , Proctor Emily
Published: May 2023

Tony Proctor MBCS and Emily Proctor explore how nation states, including Russia, have deployed offensive cyber activities and assess what these mean for UK citizens and their devices.
What AI Means for Intellectual Property
Authors: Ume Jude
Published: May 2023

The new generation of generative AI represents a sea change in how we see creativity and ownership. Jude Umeh FBCS CITP reflects on what this means for human input and intellectual property.
The Birth of the Barcode
Authors: Brown Derrick
Published: May 2023

50 years ago, the barcode was born. Millions of barcodes are read around the world every hour of the day – but how did they come to be? Derrick Brown explains.
scBrainMap: a landscape for cell types and associated genetic markers in the brain
Authors: Chi Yuhao , Qi Ruicheng , Zhou Yue , Tong Huige , Jin Hanbo , Turck Christoph W , Chen Wei-Hua , Wang Guang-Zhong
Published: May 2023

The great variety of brain cell types is a fundamental element for neuronal circuits. One major goal of modern neuroscience is to decipher the various types of cellular composition and characterize their properties. Due to the high heterogeneity of neuronal cells, until recently, it was not possible to group brain cell types at high resolution. Thanks to the single-cell transcriptome technology, a dedicated database of brain cell types across species has been established. Here, we developed scBrainMap, a database for brain cell types and associated genetic markers for several species. The current scBrainMap database contains 4881 cell types with 26 044 genetic markers identified from 6 577 222 single cells, which link to 14 species, 124 brain regions and 20 different disease states. scBrainMap enables users to perform customized, cross-linked, biologically relevant queries for different cell types of interest. This quantitative information facilitates exploratory research on the role of cell types with regard to brain function in health and disease.

Database URL https://scbrainmap.sysneuro.net/
Multiple calcium signaling genes play a role in the circadian period of Neurospora crassa
Authors: Baruah Darshana , Marak Christy Noche K , Roy Avishek , Gohain Dibakar , Kumar Ajeet , Das Pallavi , Borkovich Katherine A , Tamuli Ranjan
Published: May 2023

The Ca2+ signaling genes cpe-1, plc-1, ncs-1, splA2, camk-1, camk-2, camk-3, camk-4, cmd, and cnb-1 are necessary for a normal circadian period length in Neurospora crassa. In addition, the Q10 values ranged between 0.8 and 1.2 for the single mutants lacking cpe-1, splA2, camk-1, camk-2, camk-3, camk-4, and cnb-1, suggesting that the circadian clock exhibits standard temperature compensation. However, the Q10 value for the ∆plc-1 mutant was 1.41 at 25 and 30 °C, 1.53 and 1.40 for the ∆ncs-1 mutant at 20 and 25 °C, and at 20 and 30 °C, respectively, suggesting a partial loss of temperature compensation in these two mutants. Moreover, expression of frq, a regulator of the circadian period, and the blue light receptor wc-1, were increased >2-fold in the Δplc-1, ∆plc-1; ∆cpe-1, and the ∆plc-1; ∆splA2 mutants at 20 °C. The frq mRNA level was increased >2-fold in the Δncs-1 mutant compared to the ras-1bd strain at 20 °C. Therefore, multiple Ca2+ signaling genes regulate the circadian period, by influencing expression of the frq and wc-1 genes that are critical for maintaining the normal circadian period length in N. crassa.
Adapting 3-PG foliar variables to deciduous trees in response to water restriction: poplar short rotation plantations under Mediterranean conditions
Authors: Fuertes A , Oliveira N , Pérez-Cruzado C , Cañellas I , Sixto H , Rodríguez-Soalleiro R
Published: May 2023

Poplar plantations growing in short rotation are a crucial biomass source of raw material for bioenergy and/or bioproducts, making an important contribution towards achieving a low-carbon bioeconomy. To optimize yield predictions of poplar plantations, this study aims to adapt the foliar variables of the process-based model 3-PG (Physiological Principles Predicting Growth) to a deciduous species like poplar. A total of 138 trees were sampled from a poplar plantation of the highly productive hybrid P. x canadensis (‘AF2’) over a first rotation at a planting density of 10 000 trees ha−1. Two irrigation scenarios, full soil field capacity (FC) and 50% FC, were considered to take into account the impact of climate change in the context of irrigation restrictions. Based on this information, the objectives were not only to determine the required species-specific foliar parameters but also to adapt the 3-PG model architecture to a pattern of variation along each growing season and identify the foliar parameters which present a significant response to restrictive irrigation. For this, specific leaf area (SLA) changes were modelled and the litterfall rate (${\gamma}_F$), and maximum canopy quantum efficiency (${\alpha}_{Cx}$) were calculated. SLA follows a similar dynamic in terms of water availability and year, with SLA for mature leaves being 19.9 m2 kg−2 and the SLA at the beginning of the growing season 10.4 m2 kg2. Leaf litter season begins in late August and lasts until early December, with 26 per cent litterfall by October. Additionally, the highly sensitive parameter ${\alpha}_{Cx}$ was calibrated and a proposed value of 0.093 molC mol PAR−1 was used. The validation of the proposed parameterization showed realistic estimates of the changes of leaf biomass and LAI during the growing season. These results will enable improved 3-PG-based estimations of the real variation along the growing season of variables such as Net Primary Productivity, leaf litterfall or analysis of the soil–plant nutrient cycle.
Loneliness and Psychological Distress Among Older Californians: The Moderating Roles of Citizenship Status and English Proficiency
Authors: Tsuchiya Kazumi , Taylor Harry Owen , Bacong Adrian Matias , Niño Michael David
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Guided by the theory of stress proliferation, our study examined whether loneliness, citizenship status, and English proficiency were associated with psychological distress among older adults, and if citizenship status and English proficiency moderated these relationships.

Methods

Using the older adult subsample (65+ years) of the 2019–2020 California Health Interview Survey (N = 15,210), we assessed cross-sectional associations between loneliness, citizenship status, and English proficiency on psychological distress by conducting multivariable linear regression models. Interaction terms were included in subsequent models to determine if citizenship status and English proficiency moderated the relationship between loneliness and psychological distress.

Results

In unadjusted models, greater loneliness was associated with higher distress. Both naturalized citizens and noncitizens, and those with limited English proficiency (LEP) exhibited greater distress than US born citizens and those who speak English only (EO). After adjusting for sociodemographic and health covariables, loneliness remained significant for distress although the relationships between citizenship status and English proficiency became attenuated. With the inclusion of interactions, the magnitude of the relationship between loneliness and distress was stronger for naturalized citizens and those with LEP than native-born citizens and those who speak EO, respectively.

Discussion

Loneliness was the most consistent stressor affecting multiple life domains. However, our findings demonstrate that stress proliferation is occurring among older immigrant adults and the interplay between loneliness, citizenship status, and English proficiency is contributing to heightened distress. Further attention is needed in understanding the role of multiple stressors influencing mental health among immigrant older adults.
ANK2 loss-of-function variants are associated with epilepsy, and lead to impaired axon initial segment plasticity and hyperactive network activity in hiPSC-derived neuronal networks
Authors: Teunissen Maria W A , Lewerissa Elly , van Hugte Eline J H , Wang Shan , Ockeloen Charlotte W , Koolen David A , Pfundt Rolph , Marcelis Carlo L M , Brilstra Eva , Howe Jennifer L , Scherer Stephen W , Le Guillou Xavier , Bilan Frédéric , Primiano Michelle , Roohi Jasmin , Piton Amelie , de Saint Martin Anne , Baer Sarah , Seiffert Simone , Platzer Konrad , Jamra Rami Abou , Syrbe Steffen , Doering Jan H , Lakhani Shenela , Nangia Srishti , Gilissen Christian , Vermeulen R Jeroen , Rouhl Rob P W , Brunner Han G , Willemsen Marjolein H , Nadif Kasri Nael
Published: May 2023

Purpose

To characterize a novel neurodevelopmental syndrome due to loss-of-function (LoF) variants in Ankyrin 2 (ANK2), and to explore the effects on neuronal network dynamics and homeostatic plasticity in human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons.

Methods

We collected clinical and molecular data of 12 individuals with heterozygous de novo LoF variants in ANK2. We generated a heterozygous LoF allele of ANK2 using CRISPR/Cas9 in human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). HiPSCs were differentiated into excitatory neurons, and we measured their spontaneous electrophysiological responses using micro-electrode arrays (MEAs). We also characterized their somatodendritic morphology and axon initial segment (AIS) structure and plasticity.

Results

We found a broad neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD), comprising intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorders and early onset epilepsy. Using MEAs, we found that hiPSC-derived neurons with heterozygous LoF of ANK2 show a hyperactive and desynchronized neuronal network. ANK2-deficient neurons also showed increased somatodendritic structures and altered AIS structure of which its plasticity is impaired upon activity-dependent modulation.

Conclusions

Phenotypic characterization of patients with de novo ANK2 LoF variants defines a novel NDD with early onset epilepsy. Our functional in vitro data of ANK2-deficient human neurons show a specific neuronal phenotype in which reduced ANKB expression leads to hyperactive and desynchronized neuronal network activity, increased somatodendritic complexity and AIS structure and impaired activity-dependent plasticity of the AIS.
C-reactive protein and procalcitonin use in adults in low- and middle-income countries: a narrative review
Authors: Lamrous Amin , Repetto Ernestina , Depp Tim , Jimenez Carolina , Chua Arlene C , Kanapathipillai Rupa , Jensen Tomas O
Published: May 2023

Objectives

C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) are widely used biomarkers in high-income countries. However, evidence for their use in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is scant. Because many factors, including rates of endemic disease, comorbidities and genetics, may influence biomarkers’ behaviour, we aimed to review available evidence generated in LMICs.

Methods

We searched the PubMed database for relevant studies within the last 20 years that originated in regions of interest (Africa, Latin America, Middle East, South Asia or South East Asia), and full-text articles involving diagnosis, prognostication and evaluation of therapeutic response with CRP and/or PCT in adults (n = 88) were reviewed and categorized in 12 predefined focus areas.

Results

Overall, results were highly heterogeneous, at times conflicting, and often lacking clinically useful cut-off values. However, most studies demonstrated higher levels of CRP/PCT in patients with bacterial versus other infections. HIV and TB patients had consistently higher levels of CRP/PCT versus controls. In addition, higher CRP/PCT levels at baseline and follow-up in HIV, TB, sepsis and respiratory tract infections were associated with poorer prognosis.

Conclusions

Evidence generated from LMIC cohorts suggests that CRP and PCT may have potential to become effective clinical guiding tools particularly in respiratory tract infections, sepsis and HIV/TB. However, more studies are needed to define potential scenarios for use and cost-effectiveness. Consensus across stakeholders regarding target conditions, laboratory standards and cut-off values would support the quality and applicability of future evidence.
Building a collaborative cloud platform to accelerate heart, lung, blood, and sleep research
Authors: Ahalt Stan , Avillach Paul , Boyles Rebecca , Bradford Kira , Cox Steven , Davis-Dusenbery Brandi , Grossman Robert L , Krishnamurthy Ashok , Manning Alisa , Paten Benedict , Philippakis Anthony , Borecki Ingrid , Chen Shu Hui , Kaltman Jon , Ladwa Sweta , Schwartz Chip , Thomson Alastair , Davis Sarah , Leaf Alison , Lyons Jessica , Sheets Elizabeth , Bis Joshua C , Conomos Matthew , Culotti Alessandro , Desain Thomas , Digiovanna Jack , Domazet Milan , Gogarten Stephanie , Gutierrez-Sacristan Alba , Harris Tim , Heavner Ben , Jain Deepti , O'Connor Brian , Osborn Kevin , Pillion Danielle , Pleiness Jacob , Rice Ken , Rupp Garrett , Serret-Larmande Arnaud , Smith Albert , Stedman Jason P , Stilp Adrienne , Barsanti Teresa , Cheadle John , Erdmann Christopher , Farlow Brandy , Gartland-Gray Allie , Hayes Julie , Hiles Hannah , Kerr Paul , Lenhardt Chris , Madden Tom , Mieczkowska Joanna O , Miller Amanda , Patton Patrick , Rathbun Marcie , Suber Stephanie , Asare Joe
Published: May 2023

Research increasingly relies on interrogating large-scale data resources. The NIH National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute developed the NHLBI BioData CatalystⓇ (BDC), a community-driven ecosystem where researchers, including bench and clinical scientists, statisticians, and algorithm developers, find, access, share, store, and compute on large-scale datasets. This ecosystem provides secure, cloud-based workspaces, user authentication and authorization, search, tools and workflows, applications, and new innovative features to address community needs, including exploratory data analysis, genomic and imaging tools, tools for reproducibility, and improved interoperability with other NIH data science platforms. BDC offers straightforward access to large-scale datasets and computational resources that support precision medicine for heart, lung, blood, and sleep conditions, leveraging separately developed and managed platforms to maximize flexibility based on researcher needs, expertise, and backgrounds. Through the NHLBI BioData Catalyst Fellows Program, BDC facilitates scientific discoveries and technological advances. BDC also facilitated accelerated research on the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
Travel restrictions cannot prevent the introduction of new COVID variants
Authors: Zhang Qingpeng , Ye Yang , Zeng Daniel D
Published: May 2023

We predict the arrival time of a hypothetically new variant emerging from China for each country/region to examine the effectiveness of travel restrictions in preventing the importation of new variants of SARS-COV-2. Results show that travel restrictions are ineffective in delaying the arrival of the virus in the post-pandemic era.
Exploring the role of structuralist methodology in the neuroscience of consciousness: a defense and analysis
Authors: Kob Lukas
Published: May 2023

Traditional contrastive analysis has been the foundation of consciousness science, but its limitations due to the lack of a reliable method for measuring states of consciousness have prompted the exploration of alternative approaches. Structuralist theories have gained attention as an alternative that focuses on the structural properties of phenomenal experience and seeks to identify their neural encoding via structural similarities between quality spaces and neural state spaces. However, the intertwining of philosophical assumptions about structuralism and structuralist methodology may pose a challenge to those who are skeptical of the former. In this paper, I offer an analysis and defense of structuralism as a methodological approach in consciousness science, which is partly independent of structuralist assumptions on the nature of consciousness. By doing so, I aim to make structuralist methodology more accessible to a broader scientific and philosophical audience. I situate methodological structuralism in the context of questions concerning mental representation, psychophysical measurement, holism, and functional relevance of neural processes. At last, I analyze the relationship between the structural approach and the distinction between conscious and unconscious states.
Dimensionality-driven metal to Mott insulator transition in two-dimensional 1T-TaSe2
Authors: Tian Ning , Huang Zhe , Jang Bo Gyu , Guo Shuaifei , Yan Ya-Jun , Gao Jingjing , Yu Yijun , Hwang Jinwoong , Tang Cenyao , Wang Meixiao , Luo Xuan , Sun Yu Ping , Liu Zhongkai , Feng Dong-Lai , Chen Xianhui , Mo Sung-Kwan , Kim Minjae , Son Young-Woo , Shen Dawei , Ruan Wei , Zhang Yuanbo
Published: May 2023

Two-dimensional materials represent a major frontier for research into exotic many-body quantum phenomena. In the extreme two-dimensional limit, electron-electron interaction often dominates over other electronic energy scales, leading to strongly correlated effects such as quantum spin liquid and unconventional superconductivity. The dominance is conventionally attributed to the lack of electron screening in the third dimension. Here, we discover an intriguing metal to Mott insulator transition in 1T-TaSe2 that defies conventional wisdom. Specifically, we find that dimensionality crossover, instead of reduced screening, drives the transition in atomically thin 1T-TaSe2. A dispersive band crossing the Fermi level is found to be responsible for the bulk metallicity in the material. Reducing the dimensionality, however, effectively quenches the kinetic energy of these initially itinerant electrons, and drives the material into a Mott insulating state. The dimensionality-driven metal to Mott insulator transition resolves the long-standing dichotomy between metallic bulk and insulating surface of 1T-TaSe2. Our work further reveals a new pathway for modulating two-dimensional materials that enables exploring strongly correlated systems across uncharted parameter space.
Vitamin D levels and the risk of overactive bladder: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Zhang Zhicheng , He Xueyu , Liu Zhenmin , Shen Lianju , Long Chunlan , Wei Guanghui , Liu Xing , Guo Chunming
Published: May 2023

Context

Overactive bladder is treated mainly with behavioral and drug therapy, and symptoms of urinary frequency and incontinence are challenging to eliminate. There is thus a continuous unmet need for new drugs with a substitution effect mechanism.

Objective

It not known whether vitamin D deficiency can lead to overactive bladder or urinary incontinence or whether vitamin D supplementation alleviates bladder symptoms. This comprehensive systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted to determine whether overactive bladder is associated with vitamin D deficiency.

Data Sources

The PubMed and Cochrane Library databases were searched systematically up to July 3, 2022.

Data Extraction

Initially, 706 articles were identified in the literature search, of which 13 were included in the systematic review: 4 randomized controlled trials, 3 cohort studies, 3 cross-sectional studies, and 3 case-control studies.

Data Analysis

An increased risk of overactive bladder and urinary incontinence was observed with vitamin D deficiency (odds ratio [OR] = 4.46; 95%CI, 1.03–19.33; P = 0.046 and OR = 1.30; 95%CI, 1.01–1.66; P = 0.036, respectively). Vitamin D levels were relatively low in patients with overactive bladder or urinary incontinence (SMD = −0.33; 95%CI, −0.61 to −0.06, P = 0.019). On the basis of existing data, the risk of urinary incontinence was reduced by 66% after vitamin D supplementation (OR = 0.34; 95%CI, 0.18–0.66; P = 0.001). Egger test was conducted to assess publication bias, and the results were tested for robustness using a sensitivity analysis.

Conclusions

Vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of overactive bladder and urinary incontinence, and vitamin D supplementation reduces the risk of urinary incontinence. The development of new strategies to prevent or alleviate bladder symptoms is crucial. Vitamin D supplementation may be gaining recognition as an effective strategy for prevention or alleviation of bladder symptoms such as overactive bladder and incontinence.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42022351443.
An NDM-Producing Escherichia coli Clinical Isolate Exhibiting Resistance to Cefiderocol and the Combination of Ceftazidime-Avibactam and Aztreonam: Another Step Toward Pan-β-Lactam Resistance
Authors: Simner Patricia J , Bergman Yehudit , Conzemius Rick , Jacobs Emily , Tekle Tsigereda , Beisken Stephan , Tamma Pranita D
Published: May 2023

Background

Cefiderocol and ceftazidime-avibactam plus aztreonam (CZA-ATM) are preferred treatment regimens for New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM)-producing infections.

Methods

We report the case of a US patient who traveled to India to receive a renal transplant. He subsequently experienced pyelonephritis by an NDM-producing Escherichia coli. Broth microdilution and the broth disk elution method indicated resistance to all β-lactams, including cefiderocol and CZA-ATM. Whole-genome sequencing investigations were undertaken to identify resistance mechanisms.

Results

An E. coli isolate belonging to sequence type (ST) 167 containing a blaNDM-5 gene was identified on a plasmid of the IncFIA/IncFIB/IncFIC replicon groups. When compared with the genome of another ST167 E. coli clinical isolate containing blaNDM-5 and exhibiting susceptibility to cefiderocol and CZA-ATM, a 12–base pair insertion in ftsI, translating to a 4–amino acid duplication in PBP3, was identified. Moreover, a blaCMY-59 gene was harbored on an IncI-γ replicon type, and frameshift mutations were identified in the cirA iron transport gene.

Conclusions

This is the first clinical case of a US patient harboring an NDM-producing isolate exhibiting resistance to all available β-lactam agents. The isolate's unexpected resistance to cefiderocol and CZA-ATM was likely due to a combination of (1) a modified PBP3 (increased MICs to both regimens), (2) truncated iron-binding protein (increased cefiderocol MIC), and (3) a blaCMY gene (reduced CZA-ATM activity). E. coli ST167 clinical isolates harboring blaNDM-5 genes are a recognized international high-risk clone. When coupled with the additional mechanisms identified in our patient's isolate, which is not uncommon for this high-risk clone, pan-β-lactam resistance may occur.
Hypofractionated Stereotactic Re-irradiation and Anti-PDL1 Durvalumab Combination in Recurrent Glioblastoma: STERIMGLI Phase I Results
Authors: Pouessel Damien , Ken Soléakhéna , Gouaze-Andersson Valérie , Piram Lucie , Mervoyer Augustin , Larrieu-Ciron Delphine , Cabarrou Bastien , Lusque Amélie , Robert Marie , Frenel Jean-Sebastien , Uro-Coste Emmanuelle , Olivier Pascale , Mounier Muriel , Sabatini Umberto , Sanchez Eduardo Hugo , Zouitine Mehdi , Berjaoui Ahmad , Cohen-Jonathan Moyal Elizabeth
Published: May 2023

Background

Hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (hFSRT) is a salvage option for recurrent glioblastoma (GB) which may synergize anti-PDL1 treatment. This phase I study evaluated the safety and the recommended phase II dose of anti-PDL1 durvalumab combined with hFSRT in patients with recurrent GB.

Methods

Patients were treated with 24 Gy, 8 Gy per fraction on days 1, 3, and 5 combined with the first 1500 mg Durvalumab dose on day 5, followed by infusions q4weeks until progression or for a maximum of 12 months. A standard 3 + 3 Durvalumab dose de-escalation design was used. Longitudinal lymphocytes count, cytokines analyses on plasma samples, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were collected.

Results

Six patients were included. One dose limiting toxicity, an immune-related grade 3 vestibular neuritis related to Durvalumab, was reported. Median progression-free interval (PFI) and overall survival (OS) were 2.3 and 16.7 months, respectively. Multi-modal deep  learning-based analysis including MRI, cytokines, and lymphocytes/neutrophil ratio isolated the patients presenting pseudoprogression, the longest PFI and those with the longest OS, but statistical significance cannot be established considering phase I data only.

Conclusion

Combination of hFSRT and Durvalumab in recurrent GB was well tolerated in this phase I study. These encouraging results led to an ongoing randomized phase II. (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02866747).
Fentanyl Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion: Narrative Review and Clinical Significance Related to Illicitly Manufactured Fentanyl
Authors: Bird H. Elizabeth , Huhn Andrew S. , Dunn Kelly E.
Published: May 2023

Objectives

This narrative review summarizes literature on pharmaceutical fentanyl's absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion patterns to inform research on illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF).

Results

Fentanyl is highly lipophilic, lending itself to rapid absorption by highly perfused tissues (including the brain) before redistributing from these tissues to muscle and fat. Fentanyl is eliminated primarily by metabolism and urinary excretion of metabolites (norfentanyl and other minor metabolites). Fentanyl has a long terminal elimination, with a documented secondary peaking phenomenon that can manifest as “fentanyl rebound.” Clinical implications in overdose (respiratory depression, muscle rigidity, and “wooden chest syndrome”) and opioid use disorder treatment (subjective effects, withdrawal, and buprenorphine-precipitated withdrawal) are discussed. The authors highlight research gaps derived from differences in medicinal fentanyl studies and IMF use patterns, including that medicinal fentanyl studies are largely conducted with persons who were opioid-naive, anesthetized, or had severe chronic pain and that IMF use is characterized by supratherapeutic doses and frequent and sustained administration patterns, as well as adulteration with other substances and/or fentanyl analogs.

Conclusions

This review reexamines information yielded from decades of medicinal fentanyl research and applies elements of the pharmacokinetic profile to persons with IMF exposure. In persons who use drugs, peripheral accumulation of fentanyl may be leading to prolonged exposure. More focused research on the pharmacology of fentanyl in persons using IMF is warranted.
Reliability of the Modified Method for Sphericity Deviation Score Using Only the Involved Hip Radiographs in the Patients With Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Authors: Kang Michael Seungcheol , Kak Arnav , Prasadh Jai Ganesh , Kim Harry Kwang-Woo
Published: May 2023

Background:

The sphericity deviation score (SDS) is a validated radiographic outcome measure that quantifies the severity of the femoral head deformity in the healed stage of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (LCPD). The current method requires radiographs of both hips regardless of unilateral involvement to standardize radiographic magnification. As LCPD affects the unilateral hip in 85% to 90% of cases, the current method imposes unnecessary radiation exposure to most of the patients and having to exclude patients from research studies who only had unilateral hip radiographs. We thus modified the SDS method to use unilateral hip radiographs. The purpose of this study was to investigate the reliability of the modified SDS method using the radiographs containing only one hip.

Methods:

This retrospective study involved 40 patients with LCPD with unilateral involvement in the healed stage of LCPD. We modified the SDS measurement method by using the distance between the teardrop and the lateral acetabulum for magnification correction and providing a clear anatomic description of reference points on the femoral head. Three independent observers performed measurements using radiographs containing the affected hip only (modified method) and both hips (conventional method). The intraclass correlation (ICC) estimates were calculated. To verify clinical relevance, the correlation of the SDS with the Stulberg classification and hip range of motion (ROM) were also investigated.

Results:

Measurements using the modified SDS showed excellent inter-/intra-observer ICCs (0.903 to 0.978). The ICCs between the modified and conventional methods were also excellent: 0.940 to 0.966 within the same observer and 0.897 to 0.919 between different observers. The modified SDS showed moderate-to-strong correlations with the Stulberg classification (Spearman ρ=0.650) and hip ROM (Pearson r=−0.661).

Conclusion:

The modified SDS measurement method showed excellent inter-/intra-observer reliability and moderate-to-strong correlations with the Stulberg classification and hip ROM. This method will help reduce unnecessary radiation exposure in patients with unilateral LCPD and prevent the exclusion of patients with unilateral radiographs from future research studies.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—diagnostic study.
Menopause hormone therapy and urinary symptoms: a systematic review
Authors: Christmas Monica M. , Iyer Shilpa , Daisy Cassandra , Maristany Sumiko , Letko Juraj , Hickey Martha
Published: May 2023

Importance

Urogenital changes associated with menopause are now classified as genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), which includes symptoms of urgency, frequency, dysuria, and recurrent urinary tract infections for which the recommended treatment is estrogen. However, the association between menopause and urinary symptoms and the efficacy of hormone therapy for these symptoms is uncertain.

Objective

Our objective was to define the relationship between menopause and urinary symptoms including dysuria, urgency, frequency, recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), and urge and stress incontinence by conducting a systematic review of the effects of hormone therapy (HT) for urinary symptoms in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.

Evidence Review

Eligible studies included randomized control trials with perimenopausal and postmenopausal women with a primary or secondary outcome of the following urinary symptoms: dysuria, frequent UTI, urgency, frequency, and incontinence, included at least one treatment arm of estrogen therapy, and were in English. Animal trials, cancer studies and pharmacokinetic studies, secondary analyses, and conference abstracts were excluded. PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched until April 2022. Two authors reviewed each article with discrepancies resolved through whole group consensus. Data extracted included the following: publication date, country, setting, subject number, follow-up, duration, age, race/ethnicity, study design, inclusion criteria, and main findings.

Findings

There is insufficient evidence to confirm that menopause is associated with urinary symptoms. The effect of HT on urinary symptoms depends on type. Systemic HT may cause urinary incontinence or worsen existing urinary symptoms. Vaginal estrogen improves dysuria, frequency, urge and stress incontinence, and recurrent UTI in menopausal women.

Conclusions and Relevance

Vaginal estrogen improves urinary symptoms and decreases the risk of recurrent UTI in postmenopausal women.