bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel insights into host specificity of Pyricularia oryzae and Pyricularia grisea in the infection of gramineous plant roots
Authors: Xiang Zikai , Okada Daiki , Asuke Soichiro , Nakayashiki Hitoshi , Ikeda Kenichi
Published: August 2022

Pyricularia oryzae and Pyricularia grisea are pathogens that cause blast disease in various monocots. It has been reported that P. oryzae infects the leaves and roots of rice via different mechanisms. However, it is unclear to what extent the tissue types affect the host specificities of P. oryzae and P. grisea. Here, we evaluated the tissue‐specific infection strategies of P. oryzae and P. grisea in various gramineous plants. Generally, mycelial plug inoculation caused root browning but the degree of browning did not simply follow the disease index on leaves. Interestingly, the Triticum and Digitaria pathotypes caused strong root growth inhibition in rice, wheat, and barley. Moreover, the Digitaria pathotype inhibited root branching only in rice. Culture filtrate reproduced these inhibitory effects on root, suggesting that some secreted molecules are responsible for the inhibitions. Observation of root sections revealed that most of the infection hyphae penetrated intercellular spaces and further extended into root cells, regardless of pathotype and host plant. The infection hyphae of Digitaria and Triticum pathotypes tended to localize in the outer layer of rice roots, but not in those of wheat and barley roots. The infection hyphae of the Oryza pathotype were distributed in both the intercellular and intracellular spaces of rice root cells. Pathogenesis‐related genes and reactive oxygen species accumulation were induced after root inoculation with all combinations. These results suggest that resistance reactions were induced in the roots of gramineous plants against the infection with Pyricularia isolates but failed to prevent fungal invasion.
Fluorescence lectin binding analysis of carbohydrate components in dental biofilms grown in situ in the presence or absence of sucrose
Authors: Dige Irene , Paqué Pune N. , Del Rey Yumi Chokyu , Lund Marie Braad , Schramm Andreas , Schlafer Sebastian
Published: August 2022

Carbohydrate components, such as glycoconjugates and polysaccharides, are constituents of the dental biofilm matrix that play an important role in biofilm stability and virulence. Exopolysaccharides in Streptococcus mutans biofilms have been characterized extensively, but comparably little is known about the matrix carbohydrates in complex, in situ‐grown dental biofilms. The present study employed fluorescence lectin binding analysis (FLBA) to investigate the abundance and spatial distribution of glycoconjugates/polysaccharides in biofilms (n = 306) from 10 participants, grown in situ with (SUC) and without (H2O) exposure to sucrose. Biofilms were stained with 10 fluorescently labeled lectins with different carbohydrate specificities (AAL, ABA, ASA, HPA, LEA, MNA‐G, MPA, PSA, VGA and WGA) and analyzed by confocal microscopy and digital image analysis. Microbial composition was determined by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. With the exception of ABA, all lectins targeted considerable matrix biovolumes, ranging from 19.3% to 194.0% of the microbial biovolume in the biofilms, which illustrates a remarkable variety of carbohydrate compounds in in situ‐grown dental biofilms. MNA‐G, AAL, and ASA, specific for galactose, fucose, and mannose, respectively, stained the largest biovolumes. AAL and ASA biovolumes were increased in SUC biofilms, but the difference was not significant due to considerable biological variation. SUC biofilms were enriched in streptococci and showed reduced abundances of Neisseria and Haemophilus spp., but no significant correlations between lectin‐stained biovolumes and bacterial abundance were observed. In conclusion, FLBA demonstrates the presence of a voluminous biofilm matrix comprising a variety of different carbohydrate components in complex, in situ‐grown dental biofilms.
Successful use of intra‐operative continuous renal replacement therapy in pediatric liver transplant recipients: Single center case series
Authors: Blanchette Eliza , Pahlavan Sheila , Yoeli Dor , Brigham Dania , Sater Anna , Wachs Michael , Bock Margret , Adams Megan
Published: August 2022

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is common in pediatric patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT), with an incidence 17%–55%. Fluid, metabolic, and acid–base aberrancies are often pronounced pre‐operatively and further worsened by events during LT, making intra‐operative continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) an option for critically ill LT recipients.

Methods

All pediatric LT performed at our institution who underwent intra‐operative CRRT between January 2017 and August 2021 were included. Patient demographics and clinical data including graft outcomes, intra‐operative findings, and timing and indications for CRRT were collected from the electronic medical record.

Results

CRRT was used in nine of the 76 (12%) pediatric LT performed at our center during the study period. Ages at LT ranged from 39 to 17.7 years. Recipients requiring CRRT were more likely to have acute liver failure, status 1A, and higher calculated MELD/PELD scores. CRRT was initiated pre‐transplant in three recipients and continued post‐transplant in six recipients. Median duration of CRRT was two (range 0–14) days. Indications included hyperammonemia (3/9), acidosis (3/9), fluid overload (6/9), and hyperkalemia (2/9). The CRRT group had a significantly longer post‐transplant intensive care unit length of stay in comparison to those that did not require CRRT (median 6, range 3–40 days vs. median 3, range 0–121 days, p = .02], but there were no significant differences in reoperations, hospital length of stay, or recipient or graft survival.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that CRRT can be safely performed in pediatric LT recipients, including young infants through adolescents.
Temperature modulation of CAMTA3 gene induction activity is mediated through the DNA binding domain
Authors: Chao Lumen , Kim Yongsig , Gilmour Sarah J. , Thomashow Michael F.
Published: August 2022

The calmodulin‐binding transcription activator (CAMTA) proteins of Arabidopsis thaliana play a major role in cold acclimation, contributing to the rapid induction of the C‐REPEAT BINDING FACTOR (CBF) genes and other genes that impart freezing tolerance in plants exposed to cold temperature (4°C). The goal of this study was to better understand how the gene induction activity of CAMTA3 is modulated by temperature. Our results indicate that a severely truncated version of CAMTA3, CAMTA3334, which includes the N‐terminal CG‐1 DNA binding domain and a newly identified transcriptional activation domain (TAD), was able to rapidly induce the expression of CBF2 and two newly identified target genes, EXPANSIN‐LIKE A1 (EXPL1) and NINE‐CIS‐EPOXYCAROTENOID DIOXYGENASE 3 (NCED3), in response to cold temperature. Additionally, CAMTA3334 was able to restore freezing tolerance when expressed in a camta23 double mutant. The ability of CAMTA3 and CAMTA3334 to induce target genes at cold temperature did not involve increased levels of these proteins or increased binding of these proteins to target gene promoters in cold‐treated plants. Rather, domain‐swapping experiments indicated that the CAMTA3 CG‐1 domain conferred temperature dependence to the ability of the CAMTA3 TAD to induce gene expression. The CG‐1 domain also enabled the TAD to induce the expression of target genes at a moderate temperature (22°C) in response to cycloheximide treatment, consistent with the TAD activity not being intrinsically temperature dependent. We propose a working model in which the temperature modulation of CAMTA3 gene induction activity occurs independently from the C‐terminal calmodulin‐binding domains that previously have been proposed to activate CAMTA3 transcriptional activity in response to cold temperature.
A Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici effector inhibits high‐temperature seedling‐plant resistance in wheat
Authors: Hu Yangshan , Su Chang , Zhang Yue , Li Yuxiang , Chen Xianming , Shang Hongsheng , Hu Xiaoping
Published: August 2022

Resistance to Pseudomonas syringae pv. maculicola 1 (RPM1)‐induced protein kinase (RIPK) in Arabidopsis belongs to the receptor‐like cytoplasmic kinase (RLCK) family and plays a vital role in immunity. However, the role of RLCKs in the high‐temperature seedling‐plant (HTSP) resistance of wheat (Triticum aestivum) to Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), the stripe rust pathogen, remains unclear. Here, we identified a homologous gene of RIPK in wheat, namely TaRIPK. Expression of TaRIPK was induced by Pst inoculation and high temperatures. Silencing of TaRIPK reduced the expression level of TaRPM1, resulting in weaker HTSP resistance. Moreover, TaRIPK interacts with and phosphorylates papain‐like cysteine protease 1 (TaPLCP1). Meanwhile, we found that the Pst‐secreted protein PSTG_01766 targets TaPLCP1. Transient expression of PSTG_01766 inhibited basal immunity in tobacco (Nicotiana benthamiana) and wheat. The role of PSTG_01766 as an effector involved in HTSP resistance was further supported by host‐induced gene silencing and bacterial type three secretion system‐mediated delivery into wheat. PSTG_01766 inhibited the TaRIPK‐induced phosphorylation of TaPLCP1. Furthermore, PSTG_01766 has the potential to influence the subcellular localization of TaPLCP1. Overall, we suggest that the TaRIPK–TaPLCP1–TaRPM1 module fits the guard model for disease resistance, participating in HTSP resistance. PSTG_01766 decreases HTSP resistance via targeting TaPLCP1. Guarded by wheat and attacked by Pst, TaPLCP1 may serve as a central hub of the defense response. Our findings improve the understanding of the molecular mechanism of wheat HTSP resistance, which may be an important strategy for controlling stripe rust in the face of global warming.
Ultrasound is an accurate method compared to radiography for diagnosing the presence of acute hip luxation in cadaver dogs and can identify the direction of luxation with variable reliability
Authors: Todd‐Donato Amy B. , Porter Ian R. , VanDeventer Gretchen M. , Krotscheck Ursula
Published: August 2022

Acute hip luxation is a common musculoskeletal injury in dogs, with radiographs being the preferred imaging modality for confirming the diagnosis. In large animal and human medicine, ultrasound is often utilized for this purpose. The objectives of this three‐part study were to utilize a canine cadaver model to establish ultrasonographic features of hip luxation and evaluate the accuracy and reliability for diagnosing hip luxation with ultrasound. For the first prospective, exploratory study, a cadaver model was developed that allowed manual luxation and subsequent ultrasonography of the hip joint while in four directions of luxation. For the second prospective, anatomic study, a description of the ultrasonographic features for each direction of luxation was created. For the third prospective diagnostic accuracy, observer agreement study, 16 residency‐trained and intern veterinarians without prior experience in this technique performed randomized, repeated ultrasound exams on cadaver hips assigned as normal or luxated (equally distributed between the 4 directions). A total of 1140 hip ultrasounds were performed with good accuracy (median, 90.8%; range, 61.4–100%), sensitivity (89.5%), and specificity (80.0%) for diagnosing the presence of hip luxation. Accuracy for identifying the correct quadrant of luxation was significantly lower (mean, 58.6%; range, 24.6–90.8%;P< 0.001). Intraobserver accuracy agreement varied widely from none to almost perfect agreement, and interobserver agreement ranged from slight to moderate agreement. The results of this study supported the use of ultrasound for diagnosing the presence of hip luxation but did not support replacing radiographs for diagnosing the direction of luxation.
Digital Image Classification: a Comparison of Classic Methods for Land Cover and Land Use Mapping
Authors: Santos Alex Mota dos , Carmo Nadyelle Curcino do , Nunes Fabrizia Gioppo , Aguiar Larissa Andrade de , Silva Carlos Fabricio Assunção da
Published: August 2022

In the classification of images for land cover and land use mapping, several methods can be applied, however, they can present different results in relation to field truth. Therefore, the objective of this work was to test techniques for classifying high spatial digital images obtained from the Google Earth Pro® platform. The images refer to a section of the Federal University of Goias, campus Samambaia Goiania - GO, Brazil. Classification tests were performed on the images obtained, using two classifiers per region and two classifiers per pixel, both available free of charge, in the Spring software of the National Institute for Space Research (INPE / Brazil). For the analysis of the quality of the classifications, the results were compared to a survey by direct method, in this case the topographic one, seeking to identify which classifier came closest to the field truth. The classification that presented the best performance and class separability was the Bhattacharya, with Global Accuracy of 0.85. Bhattacharya was also the classifier that came closest in terms of measured areas, by the topographic survey, with the areas of the “zinc roofing” use class, analyzed and calculated.
A Framework for In-Service Life Extension of Hydroelectric Generation Assets
Authors: Melani Arthur Henrique de Andrade , Michalski Miguel Angelo de Carvalho , da Silva Renan Favarão , de Souza Gilberto Francisco Martha
Published: August 2022

The integrity assessment of aged or worn out large electromechanical equipment units, such as in hydroelectric generators, for possible life extension has been identified as a growing challenge in the electrical power generation industry worldwide. Although the available recommended practices provide a general assessment process, it is necessary to have more detailed guidelines. This can be achieved by adding relevant theories and models which can capture time-dependent equipment unit degradation more precisely. Seeking to fulfill this gap, this work aims to present a framework that combines several techniques of data analysis, reliability, and decision-making to support engineers, operators, and managers in the often-complex decision process, regarding whether or not to extend the time in service of an equipment or system, thus postponing the moment of a scheduled maintenance shutdown. To demonstrate the application of the proposed framework, a case study is presented considering simulated scenarios based on data and information from a real Hydroelectric Power Plant. The results show how the reliability of the components and the remaining useful life of those in fault can impact the decision-making regarding the in-service life extension of a system.
Numerical Modeling of Conical-Shaped Bone Marrow Biopsy Needle Into Multilayer Iliac Crest Model
Authors: Nadda Rahul , Repaka Ramjee , Sahani Ashish Kumar
Published: August 2022

Bone marrow biopsy (BMB) is a standard technique used in various therapies, research, diagnosis, and prognosis. The extensive forces during biopsy result in un-necessary stress concentrations that are primarily hazardous to weak end bones. To enhance protection and to better identify the risks of bone biopsy, it is essential to understand and predict the interaction of needles with multiple layers of skin and bone. The present investigation aimed to find out the numerical evaluation of forces involved in the insertion and extraction of the needle into multilayer iliac crest model. The insertion and extraction forces have been studied at different diameters of biopsy needles up to a depth of 15.35 mm and insertion speeds in the range of 1 mm/s to 10 mm/s. The results showed that the insertion and extraction forces vary according to the needle diameter and relative velocity among the needle and tissue layers. A linear force versus depth relationship has been obtained in the preliminary phase, and as the depth of insertion increases, the forces increase nonlinearly. At the end phase of penetration, the forces augmented more rapidly at a low insertion rate compared to the high insertion rate.
A new species of Brasilopsis and redescription of Acarothorectes curculionium (Acari: Pygmephoridae) associated with ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera: Scolytinae) from USA
Authors: Khaustov Alexander A. , Berto Marielle , Carrillo Daniel
Published: August 2022

Phoretic females of Acarothorectes curculionium (Cross) and a new species Brasilopsis floridensis sp. nov. (Acari: Pygmephoridae) were collected as associates of ambrosia beetles in Florida, USA. The genera Acarothorectes and Brasilopsis are recorded from USA for the first time and redefined. Acarothorectes curculionium is redescribed based on material from USA. Some morphological structures of described mites and the present state of knowledge of taxonomy of Pygmephoroidea are discussed.
Analysis of Recovery Methods’ Efficacy Applied up to 72 Hours Postmatch in Professional Football: A Systematic Review With Graded Recommendations
Authors: Querido Sérgio M. , Radaelli Régis , Brito João , Vaz João R. , Freitas Sandro R.
Published: August 2022

Background: Sleep, nutrition, active recovery, cold-water immersion, and massage were recently reported as the most used postmatch recovery methods in professional football. However, the recommendations concerning the effect of these methods remain unclear. Purpose: To systematically review the literature regarding the effectiveness of the most common recovery methods applied to male and female football players (or other team sports) 72 hours postmatches and to provide graded recommendations for their use. Methods: A systematic search of the literature was performed, and the level of evidence of randomized and nonrandomized studies was classified as 1 or 2, respectively, with additional ++, +, and − classification according to the quality of the study and risk of bias. Graded recommendations were provided regarding the effectiveness of recovery methods for physical, physiological, and perceptive variables. Results: From the 3472 articles identified, 39 met the inclusion criteria for analysis. The studies’ levels of evidence varied among methods (sleep: 2+ to 1++; nutrition: 2− to 1+; cold-water immersion: 2− to 1++; active recovery: 2− to 1+; and massage: 1− to 1+). Different graded recommendations were attributed, and none of them favored the effective use of recovery methods for physiological and physical parameters, whereas massage and cold-water immersion were recommended as beneficial for perceptive variables. Conclusions: Cold-water immersion and massage can be recommended to recover up to 72 hours postmatch at a perceptive level. However, there is a current need for high-quality research that identifies effective recovery strategies that enhance recovery at the physical and physiological levels.
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Increased Hamstring Mobility
Authors: Doeringer Jeffrey R. , Ramirez Ramon , Colas Megan
Published: August 2022

Context: Limited research reveals that the use of different soft tissue mobilization techniques increases tissue mobility in different regions of the body. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a difference between administering instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) and therapeutic cupping (TC) on hamstring tightness. Design: Subjects attended one session wherein treatment and leg order were randomized before attending the session. A statistical analysis was completed using a 2 (intervention) × 2 (time) repeated-measures analysis of variance at α level ≤ .05. Participants: Thirty-three subjects between the age of 18–35 years old with bilateral hamstring tightness participated in this study. Interventions: The IASTM and TC were administered on different legs for 5 minutes and over the entire area of the hamstring muscles. One TC was moved over the entire treatment area in a similar fashion as the IASTM. Main Outcome Measures: The intervention measurements included soreness numeric rating scale, Sit-n-Reach (single leg for side being tested), goniometric measurement for straight-leg hip-flexion motion, and superficial skin temperature. The timeline for data collection included: (1) intervention measurements for the first randomized leg, (2) 5-minute treatment with the first intervention treatment, (3) intervention measurements repeated for postintervention outcomes, and (4) repeat the same steps for 1 to 3 with the contralateral leg and the other intervention. Results: There was a main effect over time for Sit-n-Reach, measurement (pre-IASTM—29.50 [8.54], post-IASTM—32.11 [8.31] and pre-TC—29.67 [8.21], post-TC—32.05 [8.25]) and goniometric measurement (pre-IASTM—83.45 [13.86], post-IASTM—92.73 [13.20] and pre-TC—83.76 [11.97], post-TC—93.67 [12.15]; P < .05). Conclusion: Both IASTM and TC impacted hamstring mobility during a single treatment using only an instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization technique without any additional therapeutic intervention.
Even a little delocalization produces large kinetic enhancements of charge-separation efficiency in organic photovoltaics
Authors: Balzer Daniel , Kassal Ivan
Published: August 2022

In organic photovoltaics, charges can separate efficiently even if their Coulomb attraction is an order of magnitude greater than the available thermal energy. Delocalization has been suggested to explain this fact, because it could increase the initial separation of charges in the charge-transfer (CT) state, reducing their attraction. However, understanding the mechanism requires a kinetic model of delocalized charge separation, which has proven difficult because it involves tracking the correlated quantum-mechanical motion of the electron and the hole in large simulation boxes required for disordered materials. Here, we report the first three-dimensional simulations of charge-separation dynamics in the presence of disorder, delocalization, and polaron formation, finding that even slight delocalization, across less than two molecules, can substantially enhance the charge-separation efficiency, even starting with thermalized CT states. Delocalization does not enhance efficiency by reducing the Coulomb attraction; instead, the enhancement is a kinetic effect produced by the increased overlap of electronic states.
Invariable resistance of conductive nanocomposite over 30% strain
Authors: Muhammed Ajmal C. , Cha Seokjae , Kim Wonjoon , Faseela K. P. , Yang Heejun , Baik Seunghyun
Published: August 2022

The dependence of the electrical resistance on materials’ geometry determines the performance of conductive nanocomposites. Here, we report the invariable resistance of a conductive nanocomposite over 30% strain. This is enabled by the in situ–generated hierarchically structured silver nanosatellite particles, realizing a short interparticle distance (4.37 nm) in a stretchable silicone rubber matrix. Furthermore, the barrier height is tuned to be negligible by matching the electron affinity of silicone rubber to the work function of silver. The stretching results in the electron flow without additional scattering in the silicone rubber matrix. The transport is changed to quantum tunneling if the barrier height is gradually increased by using different matrix polymers with smaller electron affinities, such as ethyl vinyl acetates and thermoplastic polyurethane. The tunneling current decreases with increasing strain, which is accurately described by the Simmons approximation theory. The tunable transport in nanocomposites provides an advancement in the design of stretchable conductors.
Distributed interfacing by nanoscale photodiodes enables single-neuron light activation and sensory enhancement in 3D spinal explants
Authors: Thalhammer Agnes , Fontanini Mario , Shi Jiuyun , Scaini Denis , Recupero Luca , Evtushenko Alexander , Fu Ying , Pavagada Suraj , Bistrovic-Popov Andrea , Fruk Ljiljana , Tian Bozhi , Ballerini Laura
Published: August 2022

Among emerging technologies developed to interface neuronal signaling, engineering electrodes at the nanoscale would yield more precise biodevices opening to progress in neural circuit investigations and to new therapeutic potential. Despite remarkable progress in miniature electronics for less invasive neurostimulation, most nano-enabled, optically triggered interfaces are demonstrated in cultured cells, which precludes the studies of natural neural circuits. We exploit here free-standing silicon-based nanoscale photodiodes to optically modulate single, identified neurons in mammalian spinal cord explants. With near-infrared light stimulation, we show that activating single excitatory or inhibitory neurons differently affects sensory circuits processing in the dorsal horn. We successfully functionalize nano-photodiodes to target single molecules, such as glutamate AMPA receptor subunits, thus enabling light activation of specific synaptic pathways. We conclude that nano-enabled neural interfaces can modulate selected sensory networks with low invasiveness. The use of nanoscale photodiodes can thus provide original perspective in linking neural activity to specific behavioral outcome.
A tandem radiative/evaporative cooler for weather-insensitive and high-performance daytime passive cooling
Authors: Li Jinlei , Wang Xueyang , Liang Dong , Xu Ning , Zhu Bin , Li Wei , Yao Pengcheng , Jiang Yi , Min Xinzhe , Huang Zhengzong , Zhu Shining , Fan Shanhui , Zhu Jia
Published: August 2022

Radiative cooling and evaporative cooling with low carbon footprint are regarded as promising passive cooling strategies. However, the intrinsic limits of continuous water supply with complex systems for evaporative cooling, and restricted cooling power as well as the strict requirement of weather conditions for radiative cooling, hinder the scale of their practical applications. Here, we propose a tandem passive cooler composed of bilayer polymer that enables dual-functional passive cooling of radiation and evaporation. Specifically, the high reflectivity to sunlight and mid-infrared emissivity of this polymer film allows excellent radiative cooling performance, and its good atmospheric water harvesting property of underlayer ensures self-supply of water and high evaporative cooling power. Consequently, this tandem passive cooler overcomes the fundamental difficulties of radiative cooling and evaporative cooling and shows the applicability under various conditions of weather/climate. It is expected that this design can expand the practical application domain of passive cooling.
Climate change is increasing the risk of a California megaflood
Authors: Huang Xingying , Swain Daniel L.
Published: August 2022

Despite the recent prevalence of severe drought, California faces a broadly underappreciated risk of severe floods. Here, we investigate the physical characteristics of “plausible worst case scenario” extreme storm sequences capable of giving rise to “megaflood” conditions using a combination of climate model data and high-resolution weather modeling. Using the data from the Community Earth System Model Large Ensemble, we find that climate change has already doubled the likelihood of an event capable of producing catastrophic flooding, but larger future increases are likely due to continued warming. We further find that runoff in the future extreme storm scenario is 200 to 400% greater than historical values in the Sierra Nevada because of increased precipitation rates and decreased snow fraction. These findings have direct implications for flood and emergency management, as well as broader implications for hazard mitigation and climate adaptation activities.
Disparities in dermatology AI performance on a diverse, curated clinical image set
Authors: Daneshjou Roxana , Vodrahalli Kailas , Novoa Roberto A. , Jenkins Melissa , Liang Weixin , Rotemberg Veronica , Ko Justin , Swetter Susan M. , Bailey Elizabeth E. , Gevaert Olivier , Mukherjee Pritam , Phung Michelle , Yekrang Kiana , Fong Bradley , Sahasrabudhe Rachna , Allerup Johan A. C. , Okata-Karigane Utako , Zou James , Chiou Albert S.
Published: August 2022

An estimated 3 billion people lack access to dermatological care globally. Artificial intelligence (AI) may aid in triaging skin diseases and identifying malignancies. However, most AI models have not been assessed on images of diverse skin tones or uncommon diseases. Thus, we created the Diverse Dermatology Images (DDI) dataset—the first publicly available, expertly curated, and pathologically confirmed image dataset with diverse skin tones. We show that state-of-the-art dermatology AI models exhibit substantial limitations on the DDI dataset, particularly on dark skin tones and uncommon diseases. We find that dermatologists, who often label AI datasets, also perform worse on images of dark skin tones and uncommon diseases. Fine-tuning AI models on the DDI images closes the performance gap between light and dark skin tones. These findings identify important weaknesses and biases in dermatology AI that should be addressed for reliable application to diverse patients and diseases.
056 Online assessment and monitoring of cognitive decline in neurological conditions
Authors: Lerede Annalaura , Middleton Rodden , Rodgers Jeff , Tuite-Dalton Katherine , Trender William , Hellyer Peter , Nicholas Richard , Hampshire Adam
Published: August 2022

Neurological conditions present with cognitive impairment that greatly affects the quality of life of the patients and should be routinely evaluated. However, it can be difficult to detect and impractical to monitor with classic in person cognitive assessment due to limitations of sensitivity, scalability and cost. Internet- and app-based tools for cognitive assessment are a potential solution of this problem, offering superior sensitivity and being deliverable remotely in the context of clinical registries, providing an acces- sible and cost-effective way to combine large-scale longitudinal cognitive and clinical data. To validate this idea, we administered a superset of 23 internet-deliverable cognitive tasks from the Cognitron platform to people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) through the UKMSRegister. These tasks come with extensive normative data (N>400,000) collected during previous large-scale studies. We report high sensitivity to cognitive deficits in PwMS and identify the cognitive domains that are most vulnerable. We propose an optimal subset of tasks that can provide an efficient multivariate profile of cognitive decline in PwMS at scale and longitudinally via MSRegisters. This same approach will be extended to other neurological conditions, offering a way to measure and predict the evolution of cognitive impairment over time, and monitor the long-term impacts of interventions.
101 Motor and non-motor features of prodromal PD
Authors: Rees Richard , Simonet Cristina , Gill Aneet , Giovannoni Gavin , Bestwick Jonathan , Lees Andrew , Noyce Alastair , Schrag Anette
Published: August 2022

Introduction

A range of non-motor features can be evident at the point of diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Objectives

To identify non-motor features of prodromal PD in participants from the PREDICT-PD study.

Methods

Higher-risk (HR) (odds of PD >1:30) and matched lower-risk (LR) participants from PREDICT-PD and PD patients underwent validated clinical assessments, in which the assessor was blinded to risk scores, including MDS-UPDRS I-III, other functional motor tasks, and standardised assessments of cognition, autonomic function, pain and sleep.

Results

28 LR, 31 HR and 22 PD patients were examined. HR participants were more impaired than LR in all motor tasks, as well as the SCOPA-AUT, PD Sleep scale, HADS and MDS-UPDRS I & II. There were no sig- nificant differences between HR and PD, other than for the MDS-UPDRS part II, part III, the gastrointestinal sub-score of the SCOPA-AUT, and measured orthostatic hypotension. In all domains tested there was a relationship between the log odds of PD risk and dysfunction using linear regression.

Conclusion

This study provides strong evidence that non-motor features are prominent in at-risk indi- viduals, as well as mild motor impairment, and that these symptoms and signs are similar to patients with established PD. Further follow-up will establish which patients develop the cardinal motor signs necessary for a clinical diagnosis of PD.
188 SUNFISH 3-year efficacy and safety of risdiplam in types 2 and 3 SMA
Authors: Servais Laurent , Day John W , Mazzone Elena S , Nascimento Andres , Oskoui Maryam , Baranello Giovanni , Gerber Marianne , Martin Carmen , Yeung Wai Yin , Mercuri Eugenio
Published: August 2022

Risdiplam (EVRYSDI®) is an oral survival of motor neuron 2 (SMN2) premRNA splicing modifier approved by the EMA and MHRA for the treatment of patients aged ≥2 months, with a clinical diagnosis of Type 1, 2 or 3 spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) or 1–4 copies of SMN2.

SUNFISH (NCT02908685) is a two-part, randomised, placebocontrolled, double-blind study in a broad population of patients aged 2–25 years with Type 2/3 SMA. Part 2 assesses the efficacy and safety of the Part 1-selected dose of risdiplam versus placebo in Type 2 and non-ambulant Type 3 SMA. Participants were treated with risdiplam or placebo for 12 months; all participants then received risdiplam until Month 24. At Month 24, patients were offered the opportunity to enter the openlabel extension.

The primary outcome of Part 2 – change from baseline to Month 12 in the 32-item Motor Function Measure total score in patients treated with risdiplam (n=120) versus placebo (n=60) – was met. Gains observed with risdiplam at Month 12 were maintained or improved upon at Month 24. At Month 24, there were no treatment-related safety findings leading to withdrawal. Here we present efficacy and safety data of patients who have received risdiplam for 36 months.
006 A novel approach in the management of functional neurological disorder in the hyper-acute setting
Authors: Shivji Dhiren , Petrochilos Panayiota , Balaratnam Michelle , Lane Charlie , Nicholson Clare , See Isaiah , Alim-Marvasti Ali-Jesus , Chandratheva Arvind , Simister Robert , Haider Salman
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is common and can lead to multiple emergency department (ED) presentations and unnecessary investigation. Early identification and intervention have been shown to reduce health care costs and re-presentation to acute services by more than 50%1.

We created a pilot model to provide early access to a multi-disciplinary FND team for patients assessed by the ED-embedded neurology team (Stroke or Neurology SDEC pathway) to have a new diagnosis of FND. The MDT provided patients with individualised information about FND, pathway navigation, and shown self-management tools.

Methods

We reviewed data for all patients seen to date by the pilot service.

Results

Since commencement in November 2021, nine patients have been seen by the MDT. All patients were seen within two weeks by a neurophysiotherapist and neuropsychiatrist with neurology support.

6 were female and median age was 41 years. All presented with limb weakness and/or sensory distur- bance. 7 reported prior anxiety or depression. 6 had psychiatric factors, including Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder and health anxiety. Follow up, 2 of the 9 patients so far demonstrated reduced health anxiety and increased confidence.

Conclusion

An acute FND pathway can provide timely intervention and reduce symptoms for new presentations with FND.

1. Stepped care for functional neurological disorder, A new approach to improving outcomes for a common neurological problem in Scotland. Report and Recommendations, NHS Improvement, February 2012
Deep learning and high harmonic generation
Authors: Lytova Marianna , Spanner Michael , Tamblyn Isaac
Published: August 2022

Using machine learning, we explore the utility of various deep neural networks when applied to high harmonic generation scenarios. First, we train the neural networks to predict the time-dependent dipoles and spectra of high harmonic emission from reduced-dimensionality models of di- and triatomic systems based on sets of randomly generated parameters (laser pulse intensity, internuclear distance, and molecular orientation). These networks, once trained, are useful tools to rapidly simulate the high harmonic spectra of our systems. Similarly, we have trained the neural networks to solve the inverse problem—to determine the molecular parameters based on high harmonic spectra or dipole acceleration data. The latter types of networks could then be used as spectroscopic tools to invert high harmonic spectra in order to recover the underlying physical parameters of a system. Next, we demonstrate that transfer learning can be applied to our networks to expand the range of applicability of the networks with only a small number of new test cases added to our training sets. Finally, we demonstrate neural networks that can be used to classify molecules by type: di- or triatomic, symmetric or asymmetric. With outlooks toward training with experimental data, these neural network topologies offer a novel set of spectroscopic tools that could be incorporated into high harmonic generation experiments.
Understanding the topology of the road network and identifying key bayonet nodes to avoid traffic congestion
Authors: Guan Lechen , Wang Dongle , Shao Hu , Fu Hao , Zhou Jincheng
Published: August 2022

Network topology is the basic for the development of traffic management and control. In a road network, bayonets with installation of surveillance facilities are key components to recognize traffic congestion from time to time. Therefore, identifying the essential bayonets in a road network becomes one of the most efficient ways to alleviate traffic congestion for traffic engineers and transport department. To do so, this paper aims to propose a novel sorting algorithm based on similarity measurements and traffic flow information to efficiently identify key bayonets in road networks. Our research results show that by analyzing the bayonet data in a fixed period of time in a medium-sized city of China, we have successfully identified the location of key bayonet points. Most of these key bayonet points are closed to residential areas and important traffic stations. The rank of these bayonet points can help the city managers better understand the topological characteristics of the road network as well as the propagation of congestion so as to make the traffic policies or control strategies for traffic congestion alleviation.
Semi-supervised Multi-Source Transfer Learning for Motor Imagery Recognition
Authors: Gao Chang , Sun Jie
Published: August 2022

In the field of motor imagery (MI) recognition, poor generalization and low recognition performance are major challenges. An MI recognition method based on semi-supervised learning and multi-source transfer learning is proposed. In this approach, samples are transferred from some source domains to the target domain using the multi-source transfer learning method. The source domains selection method based on distribution similarity is designed to select source domains with similar distribution to the target domain, and samples with high information entropy are selected from these source domains for transfer. In this regard, we propose a semi-supervised learning labeling method for labeling the unlabeled samples of the target domain, which utilizes the labeling information from a few labeled samples without increasing the labeling cost. The sample confidence measurement method and the dynamic adjustment mechanism are proposed to ensure labeling accuracy and minimize the influence of mislabeled samples. A fusion classification model can identify the new sample in the target domain. As a measure of the effectiveness of the proposed method, four types of MI from the BCI Competition IV dataset 2A were used to evaluate the recognition ability, and the outcomes confirmed an excellent recognition performance as well as a superior training efficiency when compared with the currently used methods.
Photoinactivation of Escherichia coli using five photosensitizers and the same number of photons
Authors: Ortega-Zambrano Daniel , Fuentes-López Denisse , Mercado-Uribe Hilda
Published: August 2022

Bacterial resistance is today a matter of great medical concern, so it is urgent to investigate alternatives to alleviate it. Photodynamic inactivation (PDI) is a method that has been endorsed to inactivate different pathogens, including bacteria, fungi and viruses. PDI is achieved by using a photosensitizer (PS) molecule which generates reactive oxygen species under visible or UV radiation. We use visible light and UV-A radiation to excite four commercial PSs (methylene blue, rose bengal, riboflavin and curcumin), and nanoparticles synthesized in our laboratory. Despite these PSs having been thoroughly studied in the past by other research groups, in order to compare their effects in an appropriate way, we matched the number of photons they absorb. We found that methylene blue leads to the major inactivation of Escherichia coli. Furthermore, we evaluated the production of singlet oxygen and hydroxyl radicals in the photoinactivation process.
The Binding Behavior of Peptide Ligands to Human Osteoclast-Stimulating Factor SH3 Domain Shifted by a Rationally Designed π-Stacking System
Authors: Huang Qi , Xu Xianquan , Song Xiaoting , Hong Dun
Published: August 2022

Human osteoclast-stimulating factor (OSF) induces osteoclast formation and bone resorption in osteoporosis by recruiting multiple signaling complexes with downstream partners. Protein contains a peptide-recognition Src homology 3 (SH3) domain that can recognize and bind class II linear motif [Formula: see text] to its partner proteins. The motif is defined by two prolines at positions [Formula: see text]1 and [Formula: see text]2, which are the primary anchor residues required for the domain recognition, and a positively charged amino acid at position [Formula: see text]4, which is the secondary anchor residue and determines the binding orientation of the motif peptides on the domain surface. In this study, we systematically examined the intermolecular interaction of OSF SH3 domain with a high-affinity decapeptide segment derived from its partner protein Sam68 at structural and energetic levels. It was found that, in addition to the primary and secondary anchor residues, the residue at peptide position [Formula: see text]1 is also important, which can form a [Formula: see text]-stacking system (consisting of multiple cation-[Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] stacking interactions) with its vicinal aromatic residues Phe23, Trp49 and Tyr65 of OSF SH3 domain, thus, largely stabilizing the domain–peptide complex. Here, we assigned the position [Formula: see text]1 as the third anchor residue and investigated the stacking effect by systematically substituting the position [Formula: see text]1 residue with six charged/aromatic amino acids (Arg, Lys, His, Phe, Tyr and Trp) and one neutral amino acid (Ala), as well as their impacts on the domain–peptide binding. A strong stacking effect was observed in association with charged/aromatic substitutions relative to neutral substitution, conferring substantial stability to the complex formation. A further fluorescence-based assay also substantiated the computational findings; the lysine and tyrosine substitutions ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]) were observed to significantly and moderately improve peptide affinity by 4.7-fold and 1.4-fold relative to wild-type Sam68 decapeptide ([Formula: see text]), respectively.
Household Financial Transaction Data
Authors: Baker Scott R. , Kueng Lorenz
Published: August 2022

The growth of the availability and use of detailed household financial transaction micro data has dramatically expanded the ability of researchers to understand both household decision making and aggregate economic fluctuations across a wide range of fields. This class of transaction data is derived from a myriad of sources, including financial institutions, FinTech apps, and payment intermediaries. We review how these detailed data have been utilized in finance and economics research and analyze both their benefits and limitations as compared to more traditional measures of income, spending, and wealth. Finally, we discuss the future potential of this flexible class of data in firm-focused research, real-time policy analysis, and macro statistics.
Experimental Economics: Past and Future
Authors: Fréchette Guillaume R. , Sarnoff Kim , Yariv Leeat
Published: August 2022

Over the past several decades, lab experiments have offered economists a rich source of evidence on incentivized behavior. In this article, we use detailed data on experimental papers to describe recent trends in the literature. We also discuss various experimentation platforms and new approaches to the design and analysis of the data they generate.
Self-Compassion: Theory, Method, Research, and Intervention
Authors: Neff Kristin D.
Published: August 2022

Self-compassion refers to being supportive toward oneself when experiencing suffering or pain—be it caused by personal mistakes and inadequacies or external life challenges. This review presents my theoretical model of self-compassion as comprised of six different elements: increased self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness as well as reduced self-judgment, isolation, and overidentification. It discusses the methodology of self-compassion research and reviews the increasingly large number of empirical studies that indicate self-compassion is a productive way of approaching distressing thoughts and emotions that engenders mental and physical well-being. It also reviews research that dispels common myths about self-compassion (e.g., that it is weak, selfish, self-indulgent or undermines motivation). Interventions designed to increase self-compassion, such as compassion-focused therapy and mindful self-compassion, are discussed. Finally, the review considers problematic issues in the field, such as the differential effects fallacy, and considers limitations and future research directions in the field of self-compassion research.
Understanding the Need for Sleep to Improve Cognition
Authors: Leong Ruth L.F. , Chee Michael W.L.
Published: August 2022

The restorative function of sleep is shaped by its duration, timing, continuity, subjective quality, and efficiency. Current sleep recommendations specify only nocturnal duration and have been largely derived from sleep self-reports that can be imprecise and miss relevant details. Sleep duration, preferred timing, and ability to withstand sleep deprivation are heritable traits whose expression may change with age and affect the optimal sleep prescription for an individual. Prevailing societal norms and circumstances related to work and relationships interact to influence sleep opportunity and quality. The value of allocating time for sleep is revealed by the impact of its restriction on behavior, functional brain imaging, sleep macrostructure, and late-life cognition. Augmentation of sleep slow oscillations and spindles have been proposed for enhancing sleep quality, but they inconsistently achieve their goal. Crafting bespoke sleep recommendations could benefit from large-scale, longitudinal collection of objective sleep data integrated with behavioral and self-reported data.