bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Closed‐form expressions for spatial correlation parameters for performance analysis of fluid antenna systems
Authors: Wong K. K. , Tong K. F. , Chen Y. , Zhang Y.
Published: April 2022

The emerging fluid antenna technology enables a high‐density position‐switchable antenna in a small space to obtain enormous performance gains for wireless communications. To understand the theoretical performance of fluid antenna systems, it is important to account for the strong spatial correlation over the different positions (referred to as ‘ports'). Previous works used a classical, generalised correlation model to characterise the channel correlation among the ports but were limited by the lack of degree of freedom of the model to imitate the correlation structures in an actual antenna. In this letter, it is proposed to use a common correlation parameter and to choose it by setting the correlation coefficient of any two ports to be the same as the average correlation coefficient of an actual fluid antenna taking up a linear space. A closed‐form expression for the spatial correlation parameter is first derived assuming that the number of ports is large, and it is illustrated that the correlation parameter depends only on the size of the fluid antenna but not the port density. Simpler expressions are then obtained for small and large sizes of fluid antenna. The resulting model is finally used to study the performance of fluid antenna systems. Simulation results based on the proposed model are provided to confirm the promising performance of fluid antenna in single and multiuser environments.
Adaptive aggregation with self‐attention network for gastrointestinal image classification
Authors: Li Sheng , Cao Jing , Yao Jiafeng , Zhu Jinhui , He Xiongxiong , Jiang Qianru
Published: April 2022

Automatic classification of diseases in endoscopic images is essential to the improvement of diagnostic performance and the reduction of colorectal cancer mortality. However, due to the ambiguous boundary between background and foreground, abnormal classification in endoscopic images is still challenging. To tackle such a situation, an adaptive aggregation with self‐attention network (AASAN), including a global branch, a local branch, and a fusion branch, is proposed imitating the diagnosis process of endoscopists. On this basis, the self‐attention with relative position encoding (SA‐RPE) module is designed to capture long‐range dependencies and gather lesion neighborhood information. Furthermore, an adaptive aggregation feature (AAF) module is proposed and embedded into the fusion branch for final image label prediction, which is helpful to capture more discriminant features. Extensive experiments show that the classification accuracy of the authors' method on Kvasir public dataset reaches 96.37% in a fivefold cross‐validation, higher than the state‐of‐the‐art deep learning algorithms.
Sensitivity analysis for evaluation of the effect of sensors error on the wind turbine variables using Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Biazar Dariush , Khaloozadeh Hamid , Siahi Mehdi
Published: April 2022

The dynamics of the wind turbine behaviour and identifying the factors that change turbine performance are very complex and challenging. Quantifying the impact of these factors on improving the wind turbine performance is invaluable. Many attempts have been made to describe the behaviour of the wind turbine variables. Sensitivity analysis and Monte Carlo simulation are methods to identify important parameters affecting model
behavior. Here, with these methods, the authors investigate the effect of error in sensors on output power and measured variables of the wind turbine in partial load region and full load region. Then, using the importance factor, the effect of error in the different sensors on the output power of the wind turbine is ranked in the two operating regions, so that, in practice, the sensors that have the greatest impact on the output power are designed as redundant.
Optimisation methods for dispatch and control of energy storage with renewable integration
Authors: Guo Zhongjie , Wei Wei , Shahidehpour Mohammad , Wang Zhaojian , Mei Shengwei
Published: April 2022

Renewable energy integration is an effective measure to resolve environmental problems and implement sustainable development, yet the volatility of wind and solar generation has a profound impact on power system operation, calling for sufficient backup capacity. Energy storage can shift demand over time and mitigate real‐time power mismatch and thus help integrate renewable energy resources into power grids. However, the unit capacity price of energy storage is still relatively high, and the capacity of energy storage is usually limited. Given the prominent uncertainty and finite capacity of energy storage, it is crucially important to take full advantage of energy storage units by strategic dispatch and control. From the mathematical point of view, energy storage dispatch and control give rise to a sequential decision‐making process involving uncertain parameters and inter‐temporal constraints. Multitudinous optimisation methods have been developed for such a problem while they differ in two aspects: the modelling of uncertainty and the mechanism to handle uncertainty. This review aims to draw a methodological picture of historical developments and state‐of‐the‐art advances in this research field. These methods are subsumed into three major categories: multistage optimisation, online optimisation, and multi‐timescale optimisation. In addition to introducing the advancements and applications, the authors also explain the motivations and theoretical foundations of these methodologies. The authors hope interested readers can attain a holistic outlook of these sophisticated approaches and choose the most appropriate one for their specific applications.
The synthesis of Au-NPs by ion implantation in the crystalline GaN and characterisation of their optical properties
Authors: Jagerová Adéla , Flaks Josef , Sofer Zdeněk , Vronka Marek , Michalcová Alena , Macková Anna
Published: April 2022

Nanostructured surfaces with embedded noble metal nanoparticles is an attractive way for manipulation with the optical properties of wide bandgap semiconductors applied in optoelectronics, photocatalytic processes or for Surface-Enhanced Raman spectroscopy. Ion implantation offers an effective way for nanoparticle preparation without the use of additional chemicals that offers precise control of nanoparticle depth distribution. The aim of this study is a synthesis of the gold nanoparticles in GaN by implantation of 1.85 MeV Au ions with high fluences up to 7×1016 cm-2 and study of optical properties of Au implanted GaN. Implanted crystals were annealed at 800 °C in an ammonia atmosphere for 20 min to support Au nanoparticle creation and GaN recovery. The structure characterisation has been realized by Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy in channelling mode and it showed the formation of two separated disordered regions – the surface region and buried layer. The lower implantation fluences induce damage mainly in a buried layer; however, the increase of the Au-ion fluence leads to the increase of surface disorder as well. Further, the increase of the Au-ion fluence induces the Au dopant shift to the surface and multimodal Audepth profiles. TEM analyses confirmed the formation of Au nanoparticles in the implanted samples after annealing with sizes up to 14 nm. The increase of light absorption and modification of GaN bandgap of the Au modified GaN was deduced from the change in optical transmission spectra between 370 – 1400 nm.
The multi-energetic Au ion implantation of graphene oxide and polymers
Authors: Malinsky Petr , Novák Josef , Štěpanovská Eva , Slepička Petr , Švorčík Václav , Szőkölová Kateřina , Marvan Petr , Sofer Zdeněk , Mackova Anna
Published: April 2022

The electric properties of polymers are increasingly important in a wide range of applications such as sensors, energy storages, microelectronics, and filtration membranes among others. In this work, the effect of multi-energetic Au ion implantation on the graphene oxide (GO), polyimide (PI), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polylactide (PLLA) elemental, chemical, structural end electric properties is presented with potential application in 3D metal-dielectric structure synthetization. The three energies, 3.2, 1.6, 0.8 MeV of Au ions with fluence 3.75×1014 cm-2 were used in ascending or descending order to create two sample sets, which were subsequently analysed by RBS, ERDA, EDS and AFM. RBS analysis was used for Au-depth profile characterization in the implanted samples, the profiles agree reasonably with those simulated by SRIM code. Electrical properties were investigated by standard two-point technique with respect to the used parameters of the ion irradiation. The sheet resistance decreases after ion irradiation and it is evident that the ascending order of ion implantation energies has more significant effect on the conductivity enhancement compare to the descending one.
A multi-detector experimental setup for the study of space radiation shielding materials: Measurement of secondary radiation behind thick shielding and assessment of its radiobiological effect
Authors: Horst Felix , Boscolo Daria , Cartechini Giorgio , Durante Marco , Hartel Carola , Kozlova Ekaterina , La Tessa Chiara , Missiaggia Marta , Pierobon Enrico , Radon Torsten , Ridolfi Riccardo , Ritter Sylvia , Schuy Christoph , Sokolov Alexey , Weber Uli , Zbořil Miroslav
Published: April 2022

Space agencies have recognized the risks of astronauts’ exposure to space radiation and are developing complex model-based risk mitigation strategies. In the foundation of these models, there are still significant gaps of knowledge concerning nuclear fragmentation reactions which need to be addressed by ground-based experiments. There is a lack of data on neutron and light ion production by heavy ions, which are an important component of galactic cosmic radiation (GCR). A research collaboration has been set up to characterize the secondary radiation field produced by GCR-like radiation provided by a particle accelerator in thick shielding. The aim is to develop a novel method for producing high-quality experimental data on neutron and light ion production in shielding materials relevant for space radiation protection. Four complementary detector systems are used to determine the energy and angular distributions of high-energy secondary neutrons and light ions. In addition to the physical measurement approach, the biological effectiveness of the secondary radiation field is determined by measuring chromosome aberrations in human peripheral lymphocytes placed behind the shielding. The experiments are performed at the heavy ion
Simultaneous neutron and gamma imaging system for real time range and dose monitoring in Hadron Therapy and nuclear security applications
Authors: Lerendegui-Marco J. , Balibrea-Correa J. , Babiano-Suárez V. , Caballero L. , Domingo-Pardo C. , Ladarescu I.
Published: April 2022

GN-Vision is a novel dual γ-ray and neutron imaging system, which aims at imaging, simultaneously to the prompt gammas, the spatial origin of the slow and thermal neutron dose (<100 eV) generated during hadron therapy treatments. The proposed device can also be of interest for industrial applications as well as in nuclear security. The GN-Vision system has been designed following the technical developments of the iTED detector, an array of high efficiency Compton cameras intended for neutron-capture experiments, in which γ-ray energies span up to 5-6 MeV, similar to the energies encountered in hadron therapy. This manuscript presents the evolution of the i-TED detector towards the GN-Vision system and the first conceptual study of the simultaneous neutron and γ-ray imaging capability. Last, it reviews the status of the development and first results of the promising performance of this device for PG imaging in proton therapy, based on MC simulations.
First in-beam tests on simultaneous PET and Compton imaging aimed at quasi-real-time range verification in hadron therapy
Authors: Balibrea-Correa Javier , Lerendegui-Marco Jorge , Babiano-Suarez Victor , Domingo-Pardo César , Ladarescu Ion , Guerrero Carlos , Rodríguez-González Teresa , Jiménez-Ramos Maria del Carmen , Fernández-Martínez Begoña
Published: April 2022

Hadron therapy with protons has advantages with respect to conventional radiotherapy because of the maximization of the dose at the Bragg peak. As a drawback, and because of different systematic uncertainty sources, a quasi-real time monitoring for the proton range verification is required to reduce safety margins. In this respect, two gamma-ray imaging techniques are pursued: prompt gamma-ray monitoring and positron-annihilation tomography (PET). The promising prompt gamma-ray monitoring requires detection systems with large detection efficiency, high time resolution, compactness, fast response, low sensitivity to neutron-induced backgrounds and powerful image reconstruction capabilities. On the other hand, in-beam PET surveys require additionally good γ-ray position reconstruction resolution. In this contribution we show that, to a large extent, both approaches can be simultaneously accomplished by using an array of Compton cameras conveniently arranged around the target volume. Here we demonstrate experimentally the suitability of such an array, named i-TED, for PG monitoring in ion-range monitoring during Hadron Therapy, in-beam PET survey and β+ production yield measurements capability. Furthermore, with the use of GPUs, a quasi-real time PG monitoring and in-beam PET can be achieved.
Future buildings might sustainably generate their own power with luminescent solar concentrators
Authors: Johnson-Groh Mara
Published: April 2022

Luminescent solar concentrators could be key to creating more sustainably powered buildings.
High-bandwidth Si/In2O3 hybrid plasmonic waveguide modulator
Authors: Huang Yishu , Zheng Jun , Pan Bingcheng , Song Lijia , Chen Kuan-An , Yu Zejie , Ye Hui , Dai Daoxin
Published: April 2022

A novel Si/In2O3 hybrid plasmonic waveguide modulator was experimentally realized by using an asymmetric directional coupler (ADC), which consists of a silicon photonic waveguide and a Si/In2O3 hybrid plasmonic waveguide. All the silicon cores are covered with a silica layer, above which there is a metal–oxide–semiconductor (MOS) capacitor consisting of the In2O3/HfO2/Au layers. The Au layer sitting on the top of the MOS capacitor works as the top-electrode, while the In2O3 thin film covers the sidewall and contacts with the Au bottom-electrode. When the bias voltage is not applied, light launched from the silicon photonic waveguide is weakly coupled into the Si/In2O3 hybrid plasmonic waveguide, and thus, one has a high transmission at the through port of the ADC. On the other hand, when the bias voltage is applied, the carrier density in the In2O3 layer is changed, which introduces some modification to the refractive index of the In2O3 thin film. As a result, light is strongly cross-coupled from the silicon photonic waveguide to a Si/In2O3 hybrid plasmonic waveguide, and one has low transmission at the through port. In this Letter, an ultra-compact Si/In2O3 hybrid plasmonic waveguide modulator is realized with a 3.5-μm-long ADC. In the experiments, the fabricated waveguide modulator works well and exhibits a high modulation bandwidth of >40 GHz for the first time.
Polarization of gravitational waves from helical MHD turbulent sources
Authors: Roper Pol Alberto , Mandal Sayan , Brandenburg Axel , Kahniashvili Tina
Published: April 2022

We use direct numerical simulations of decaying primordial
hydromagnetic turbulence with helicity to compute the resulting
gravitational wave (GW) production and its degree of circular
polarization. The turbulence is sourced by magnetic fields that are
either initially present or driven by an electromotive force applied
for a short duration, given as a fraction of one Hubble time. In
both types of simulations, we find a clear dependence of the
polarization of the resulting GWs on the fractional helicity of the
turbulent source. We find a low frequency tail below the spectral
peak shallower than the f 3 scaling expected at super-horizon
scales, in agreement with similar recent numerical simulations.
This type of spectrum facilitates its observational detection with
the planned Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA). We show that
driven magnetic fields produce GWs more efficiently than magnetic
fields that are initially present, leading to larger spectral
amplitudes, and to modifications of the spectral shape. In
particular, we observe a sharp drop of GW energy above the spectral
peak that is in agreement with the previously obtained results. The
helicity does not have a huge impact on the maximum spectral
amplitude in any of the two types of turbulence considered.
However, the GW spectrum at wave numbers away from the peak becomes
smaller for larger values of the magnetic fractional helicity. Such
variations of the spectrum are most noticeable when magnetic fields
are driven. The degree of circular polarization approaches zero at
frequencies below the peak, and reaches its maximum at the peak. At
higher frequencies, it stays finite if the magnetic field is
initially present, and it approaches zero if it is driven. We
predict that the spectral peak of the GW signal can be detected by
LISA if the turbulent energy density is at least ∼3% of the
radiation energy density, and the characteristic scale is a
hundredth of the horizon at the electroweak scale. We show that the
resulting GW polarization is unlikely to be detectable by the
anisotropies induced by our proper motion in the dipole response
function of LISA. Such signals can, however, be detectable by
cross-correlating data from the LISA-Taiji network for turbulent
energy densities of ∼5%, and fractional helicity of 0.5 to
1. Second-generation space-base GW detectors, such as BBO and
DECIGO, would allow for the detection of a larger range of the GW
spectrum and smaller amplitudes of the magnetic field.
Compressive creep behavior of Ti-6Al-4V-xSi-ySc alloys under high-pressure at room temperature
Authors: Deng Tongsheng , Cao Wei , Yang Kemai , Shen Jianxin
Published: April 2022

One of the characteristics of Titanium alloys is that they are prone to creep due to the service conditions under high-pressure, such as deep-sea equipment. The compressive properties and deformation mechanism of Ti-6Al-4V-xSi-ySc alloys at room temperature are investigated in this study. The alloy samples are subjected to uniaxial compressive and creep tests. The obtained compression creep properties at room temperature follow the power-law function, and creep is mainly found in the first and second stage. Si and Sc are observed to improve the creep properties where the latter shows significant effect. This can be attributed to the strengthening of the solid solution of Si and Sc. Sc and Si strengthen the α and β phases respectively. The stability of these phases contributes to increasing the creep resistance of Titanium alloys. The creep resistance mechanisms of the alloys involve dislocation movement and twins.
Metallic and complex hydride-based electrochemical storage of energy
Authors: Cuevas Fermin , Amdisen Mads B , Baricco Marcello , Buckley Craig E , Cho Young Whan , de Jongh Petra , de Kort Laura M , Grinderslev Jakob B , Gulino Valerio , Hauback Bjørn C , Heere Michael , Humphries Terry , Jensen Torben R , Kim Sangryun , Kisu Kazuaki , Lee Young-Su , Li Hai-Wen , Mohtadi Rana , Møller Kasper T , Ngene Peter , Noréus Dag , Orimo Shin-ichi , Paskevicius Mark , Polanski Marek , Sartori Sabrina , Skov Lasse N , Sørby Magnus H , Wood Brandon C , Yartys Volodymyr A , Zhu Min , Latroche Michel
Published: April 2022

The development of efficient storage systems is one of the keys to the success of the energy transition. There are many ways to store energy, but among them, electrochemical storage is particularly valuable because it can store electrons produced by renewable energies with a very good efficiency. However, the solutions currently available on the market remain unsuitable in terms of storage capacity, recharging kinetics, durability, and cost. Technological breakthroughs are therefore expected to meet the growing need for energy storage. Within the framework of the Hydrogen Technology Collaboration Program—H2TCP Task-40, IEA’s expert researchers have developed innovative materials based on hydrides (metallic or complex) offering new solutions in the field of solid electrolytes and anodes for alkaline and ionic batteries. This review presents the state of the art of research in this field, from the most fundamental aspects to the applications in battery prototypes.
A Core Curriculum for Postgraduate Program in Nonsurgical Aesthetics: A Cross-sectional Delphi Study
Authors: Kumar Narendra , Parsa Ali Davod , Rahman Eqram
Published: April 2022

Background

The desire for portraying a young and beautiful face and body is driving people to seek aesthetic treatment and accelerating the exponential growth of nonsurgical aesthetic (NSA) procedures. Unfortunately, despite impressive advances, NSA is yet to have a formal clinical education program.

Objectives

This study aimed to identify the content and structure of an evidence-based postgraduate curriculum in NSA.

Methods

The Delphi questionnaire was developed after a comprehensive literature review and a focus group discussion. The questionnaire was emailed to 40 experts and 20 trainee physicians worldwide through the online survey platform and was asked to assign a rating on a 4-point Likert scale. A “1” represents a strong disagreement about integrating a topic in the NSA curriculum, and a “4” indicates a firm agreement. A pre-fixed percentage agreement of 80% and Cronbach’s α = 0.90 was established to represent a consensus for the current study.

Results

The response rate for the Delphi study was 90.0%, 88.8%, and 90% in the first, second, and third rounds, respectively. The experts and trainee physicians agreed with all the proposed topics (≥80%) and considered them critical for the proposed NSA curriculum. The mean score for each was ≥ 3, and Cronbach’s α value for the Delphi was 0.94, confirming internal consistency and reliability.

Conclusions

The consensus demonstrates significant advances toward developing an evidence-based curriculum for a postgraduate program in NSA, which is essential to support the growing demand for trained aesthetic physicians.
Semaglutide in type 2 diabetes with chronic kidney disease at high risk progression—real-world clinical practice
Authors: Aviles Bueno Beatriz , Soler Maria Jose , Perez-Belmonte Luis , Jimenez Millan Anabel , Rivas Ruiz Francisco , Garcia de Lucas Maria Dolores
Published: April 2022

Background

Semaglutide [glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor-agonist (GLP-1RA)] has shown nephroprotective effects in previous cardiovascular studies. However, its efficacy and safety in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) have been rarely studied.

Methods

This is a multicenter, retrospective, observational study in patients with T2D and CKD with glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) of 7.5–9.5% treated with subcutaneous semaglutide for 12 months in real-world clinical practice. The main objectives were glycemic control as HbA1c <7% and weight loss >5%.

Results

We studied a total of 122 patients, ages 65.50 ± 11 years, 62% men, duration of T2D 12 years, baseline HbA1c 7.57% ± 1.36% and an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 50.32 ± 19.21 mL/min/1.73 m2; 54% had a urinary albumin:creatinine ratio (UACR) of 30–300 mg/g and 20% had a UACR >300 mg/g. After 12 months of follow-up, HbA1c declined −0.73% ± 1.09% (P < .001), with 57% of patients achieving values <7% and weight loss of −6.95 kg (P < .001), with 59% of patients showing a reduction of >5% of their body weight. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased −9.85 mmHg and −5.92 mmHg, respectively (P < .001). The mean UACR decreased 51% in the group with baseline macroalbuminuria (UACR >300 mg/g). The mean eGFR (by the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration) remained stable. The need for basal insulin decreased 20% (P < .005). Only 7% of patients on insulin had mild hypoglycemic episodes. Semaglutide was stopped in 5.7% of patients for digestive intolerance.

Conclusions

In this real-world study, patients with T2D and CKD treated with subcutaneous semaglutide for 12 months significantly improved glycemic control and decreased weight. Albuminuria decreased by >50% in patients with macroalbuminuria. The administration of GLP-1RA in patients with T2D and CKD was safe and well tolerated.
Greater chronic morbidity is associated with greater fatigue in six countries
Authors: Schrock Joshua M , Sugiyama Lawrence S , Naidoo Nirmala , Kowal Paul , Snodgrass J Josh
Published: April 2022

Background and objectives

Human susceptibility to chronic non-communicable disease may be explained, in part, by mismatches between our evolved biology and contemporary environmental conditions. Disease-induced fatigue may function to reduce physical activity during acute infection, thereby making more energy available to mount an effective immune response. However, fatigue in the context of chronic disease may be maladaptive because long-term reductions in physical activity increase risks of disease progression and the acquisition of additional morbidities. Here, we test whether cumulative chronic morbidity is associated with subjective fatigue.

Methodology

We constructed a cumulative chronic morbidity score using self-reported diagnoses and algorithm-based assessments, and a subjective fatigue score based on four questionnaire items using cross-sectional survey data from the Study on global AGEing and adult health, which features large samples of adults from six countries (China, Ghana, India, Mexico, Russia and South Africa).

Results

In a mixed-effects linear model with participants nested in countries (N = 32 455), greater cumulative chronic morbidity is associated with greater subjective fatigue (β = 0.34, SE = 0.005, P < 2e−16). This association replicates within each country and is robust to adjustment for key sociodemographic and physical covariates (sex, age, household wealth, physical function score, habitual physical activity, BMI and BMI2).

Conclusions and implications

Fatigue is a common but perhaps maladaptive neuropsychological response to chronic morbidity. Disease-induced fatigue may mediate a self-perpetuating cycle, in which chronic morbidity reduces physical activity, and less physical activity increases cumulative chronic morbidity. Longitudinal research is needed to test whether chronic morbidity, fatigue and physical activity form a cyclical feedback loop.

Lay Summary: Fatigue during acute illness may promote recovery, but persistent fatigue in the context of chronic disease may make matters worse. We present evidence from six countries that more chronic disease is associated with more fatigue. This fatigue may reduce physical activity, which increases risks of acquiring additional chronic health problems.
Assembly of wood-inhabiting archaeal, bacterial and fungal communities along a salinity gradient: common taxa are broadly distributed but locally abundant in preferred habitats
Authors: Ferrer Astrid , Heath Katy D , Mosquera Sergio L , Suaréz Yaraví , Dalling James W
Published: April 2022

Wood decomposition in water is a key ecosystem process driven by diverse microbial taxa that likely differ in their affinities for freshwater, estuarine and marine habitats. How these decomposer communities assemble in situ or potentially colonize from other habitats remains poorly understood. At three watersheds on Coiba Island, Panama, we placed replicate sections of branch wood of a single tree species on land, and in freshwater, estuarine and marine habitats that constitute a downstream salinity gradient. We sequenced archaea, bacteria and fungi from wood samples collected after 3, 9 and 15 months to examine microbial community composition, and to examine habitat specificity and abundance patterns. We found that these microbial communities were broadly structured by similar factors, with a strong effect of salinity, but little effect of watershed identity on compositional variation. Moreover, common aquatic taxa were also present in wood incubated on land. Our results suggest that either taxa dispersed to both terrestrial and aquatic habitats, or microbes with broad habitat ranges were initially present in the wood as endophytes. Nonetheless, these habitat generalists varied greatly in abundance across habitats suggesting an important role for habitat filtering in maintaining distinct aquatic communities in freshwater, estuarine and marine habitats.
Tannerella forsythiastrains differentially induce interferon gamma-induced protein 10 (IP-10) expression in macrophages due to lipopolysaccharide heterogeneity
Authors: Chinthamani Sreedevi , Settem Rajendra P , Honma Kiyonobu , Stafford Graham P , Sharma Ashu
Published: April 2022

Tannerella forsythia is strongly implicated in the development of periodontitis, an inflammatory disease that destroys the bone and soft tissues supporting the tooth.  To date, the knowledge of the virulence attributes of T. forsythia species has mainly come from studies with a laboratory adapted strain (ATCC 43037). In this study, we focused on two T. forsythia clinical isolates, UB4 and UB20, in relation to their ability to activate macrophages. We found that these clinical isolates differentially induced proinflammatory cytokine expression in macrophages. Prominently, the expression of the chemokine protein IP-10 (CXCL10) was highly induced by UB20 as compared to UB4 and the laboratory strain ATCC 43037. Our study focused on the lipopolysaccharide component (LPS) of these strains and found that UB20 expressed a smooth-type LPS, unlike UB4 and ATCC 43037 each of which expressed a rough-type LPS. The LPS from UB20, via activation of TLR4, was found to be a highly potent inducer of IP-10 expression via signaling through STAT1 (signal transducer and activator of transcription-1). These data suggest that pathogenicity of T. forsythia species could be strain dependent and the LPS heterogeneity associated with the clinical strains might be responsible for their pathogenic potential and severity of periodontitis.
Inducible degradation of dosage compensation protein DPY-27 facilitates isolation ofCaenorhabditis elegansmales for molecular and biochemical analyses
Authors: Li Qianyan , Kaur Arshdeep , Mallory Benjamin , Hariri Sara , Engebrecht JoAnne
Published: April 2022

Biological sex affects numerous aspects of biology, yet how sex influences different biological processes have not been extensively studied at the molecular level. Caenorhabditis elegans, with both hermaphrodites (functionally females as adults) and males, is an excellent system to uncover how sex influences physiology. Here, we describe a method to isolate large quantities of C. elegans males by conditionally degrading DPY-27, a component of the dosage compensation complex essential for hermaphrodite, but not male, development. We show that germ cells from males isolated following DPY-27 degradation undergo meiosis and spermiogenesis like wild type and these males are competent to mate and sire viable offspring. We further demonstrate the efficacy of this system by analyzing gene expression and performing affinity pull-downs from male worm extracts.
Digital communication platforms in cardiothoracic surgery during COVID-19 pandemic: keeping us connected or isolated?
Authors: Naruka Vinci , Zientara Alicja , Hussein Nabil , Punjabi Prakash P
Published: April 2022

During the COVID-19 pandemic, performing a surgeon’s duties has become challenging while adhering to social distancing mandates. To aid in the continuity of healthcare services, rapid implementation of digital communication tools became a necessity. This is an account of experiences using digital communication platforms, namely Microsoft Teams and Zoom, for clinical and educative purposes in the field of Cardiothoracic Surgery in the UK. While enabling ongoing virtual clinical meetings, conferences and learning opportunities for residents with little face-to-face contact, are these digital communication platforms keeping us connected or isolated?
The evolution of color naming reflects pressure for efficiency: Evidence from the recent past
Authors: Zaslavsky Noga , Garvin Karee , Kemp Charles , Tishby Naftali , Regier Terry
Published: April 2022

It has been proposed that semantic systems evolve under pressure for efficiency. This hypothesis has so far been supported largely indirectly, by synchronic cross-language comparison, rather than directly by diachronic data. Here, we directly test this hypothesis in the domain of color naming, by analyzing recent diachronic data from Nafaanra, a language of Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, and comparing it with quantitative predictions derived from the mathematical theory of efficient data compression. We show that color naming in Nafaanra has changed over the past four decades while remaining near-optimally efficient, and that this outcome would be unlikely under a random drift process that maintains structured color categories without pressure for efficiency. To our knowledge, this finding provides the first direct evidence that color naming evolves under pressure for efficiency, supporting the hypothesis that efficiency shapes the evolution of the lexicon.
On the origins and fate of chromosomal abnormalities in human preimplantation embryos: an unsolved riddle
Authors: Regin Marius , Spits Claudia , Sermon Karen
Published: April 2022

About 8 out of 10 human embryos obtained in vitro harbour chromosomal abnormalities of either meiotic or mitotic origin. Abnormalities of mitotic origin lead to chromosomal mosaicism, a phenomenon that has sparked much debate lately as it confounds results obtained through preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A). PGT-A in itself is still highly debated, not only on the modalities of its execution but also on whether it should be offered to patients at all. We will focus on post-zygotic chromosomal abnormalities leading to mosaicism. First, we will summarize what is known about the rates of chromosomal abnormalities at different developmental stages. Next, based on the current understanding of the origin and cellular consequences of chromosomal abnormalities, which is largely based on studies on cancer cells and model organisms, we will offer a number of hypotheses on which mechanisms may be at work in early human development. Finally, and very briefly, we will touch upon the impact our current knowledge has on the practice of PGT-A. What is the level of abnormal cells that an embryo can tolerate before it loses its potential for full development? And is blastocyst biopsy as harmless as it seems?
Successful treatment for eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis causing severe myocarditis followed by cardiac magnetic resonance
Authors: Asatani Shinya , Kobayashi Hitomi , Nagasawa Yosuke , Nishihara Masahiro , Tanikawa Yutaka , Hamaguchi Marina , Yoshizawa Shoei , Tsuzuki Hiroshi , Sugiyama Kaita , Tsukamoto Masako , Kitamura Noboru , Nakamura Hideki
Published: April 2022

A 38-year-old woman had a history of asthma for 20 years. Bullous lesions had appeared on her left side of the back. Two months before admission, the biopsy revealed eosinophilic cellulitis. One month later, she experienced numbness in both legs. She was admitted to our hospital for emergency treatment due to chest pain and loss of consciousness. Emergency coronary angiography revealed triple-vessel vasospasm. She had cardiac arrest for 4 min during the examination. We suspected eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis due to pulmonary infiltrate, eosinophilia, and a history of illness. We, therefore, started methylprednisolone pulse therapy. Although her condition and laboratory findings improved, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging performed on day 16 showed myocardial oedema and myocardial fibrosis on late gadolinium enhancement. Coronary angiography on day 35 revealed no spasm, and myocardial biopsy showed the absence of vasculitis. There was no improvement in myocardial oedema. CMR showed enlargement of late gadolinium enhancement and formation of a ventricular aneurysm. As myocarditis did not improve sufficiently, five courses of intravenous cyclophosphamide pulse therapy were administered. CMR on day 152 showed the disappearance of myocardial oedema. We report a unique case of successful treatment of severe myocarditis and the usefulness of follow-up CMR.
A Collaborative Initiative to Establish Genomic Biomarkers for Assessing Tumorigenic Potential to Reduce Reliance on Conventional Rodent Carcinogenicity Studies
Authors: Corton J Christopher , Mitchell Constance A , Auerbach Scott , Bushel Pierre , Ellinger-Ziegelbauer Heidrun , Escobar Patricia A , Froetschl Roland , Harrill Alison H , Johnson Kamin , Klaunig James E , Pandiri Arun R , Podtelezhnikov Alexei A , Rager Julia E , Tanis Keith Q , van der Laan Jan Willem , Vespa Alisa , Yauk Carole L , Pettit Syril D , Sistare Frank D
Published: April 2022

There is growing recognition across broad sectors of the scientific community that use of genomic biomarkers has the potential to reduce the need for conventional rodent carcinogenicity studies of industrial chemicals, agrochemicals, and pharmaceuticals through a weight-of-evidence approach. These biomarkers fall into 2 major categories: (1) sets of gene transcripts that can identify distinct tumorigenic mechanisms of action; and (2) cancer driver gene mutations indicative of rapidly expanding growth-advantaged clonal cell populations. This call-to-action article describes a collaborative approach launched to develop and qualify biomarker gene expression panels that measure widely accepted molecular pathways linked to tumorigenesis and their activation levels to predict tumorigenic doses of chemicals from short-term exposures. Growing evidence suggests that application of such biomarker panels in short-term exposure rodent studies can identify both tumorigenic hazard and tumorigenic activation levels for chemical-induced carcinogenicity. In the future, this approach will be expanded to include methodologies examining mutations in key cancer driver gene mutation hotspots as biomarkers of both genotoxic and nongenotoxic chemical tumor risk. Analytical, technical, and biological validation studies of these complementary genomic tools are being undertaken by multisector and multidisciplinary collaborative teams within the Health and Environmental Sciences Institute. Success from these efforts will facilitate the transition from current heavy reliance on conventional 2-year rodent carcinogenicity studies to more rapid animal- and resource-sparing approaches for mechanism-based carcinogenicity evaluation supporting internal and regulatory decision-making.
Antimicrobial diterpene induced by two gall-inducing adelgids coexisting on Picea koraiensis
Authors: Jia Mingyue , Liu Jiayi , Zhou Wei , Hua Juan , Luo Shihong
Published: April 2022

The mechanism by which closely related species can coexist is a central factor in the stability of ecological communities. The larch adelgid (Adelges laricis laricis) and the eastern spruce adelgid (Adelges (Sacchiphantes) abietis) have both been found on the branches of Picea koraiensis in China. These two adelgids exhibit strong infectivity and readily induce the formation of ‘fish scale-like’ and ‘pineapple-like’ galls with branch parasitism rates of between 75.01 ± 7.03 and 88.02 ± 4.39%. Interestingly, the gall tissues in which these two gall-inducing insects were found to be coexisting were discovered at a rate of ~0.2% in the studied populations. The weight and number of gall chambers as well as the number of adelgids in the ‘fish scale-like’ side were higher than those in the ‘pineapple-like’ side. Furthermore, compared with the normal branches, a diterpene neoabietic acid was found at elevated concentrations in the gall tissues, with especially high concentrations seen in the tissues of the co-occupied galls. Neoabietic acid exhibited strong antibacterial activities against Bacillus spp. isolated from the branches of P. koraiensis, as well as potent antifungal activity against the hyphal growth of Fusarium graminearum JMY-1, which was obtained from the gall tissues. Our result provides evidence that the coexistence of the two closely related species could be explained by alterations of the host tissues by the insects resulting in increased concentrations of the antimicrobial agent.
Problem Partners: How to Deal With a Colleague Who Causes Problems
Authors: McCarthy James , von Allmen Daniel , Liston Nichole
Published: April 2022

One of the least appealing responsibilities of physician leadership is managing situations in which a physician partner is creating problems. Nevertheless, it is one of the most important aspects in maintaining a healthy team dynamic. When the behavior of problem partners goes unchecked these situations often grow to negatively impact others and detract from providing optimal patient care on multiple levels. Although little guidance has been given on how to handle these challenging situations, many of the principles of dealing with surgical complications are applicable and may be more familiar to surgeons. Similar to complications, preventing problems by carefully recruiting those who work well with the team is optimal. However, if and when disruptive behaviors occur, providing clear communication and setting well defined expectations is critical to the resolution.
Crisis Leadership: Lessons Learned From the COVID Pandemic
Authors: Glotzbecker Michael P.
Published: April 2022

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had unique and profound personal and professional challenges for everyone. However, this is not the first or last health care crisis we will face. There are clear lessons learned from historical examples and the current pandemic that can be utilized to tackle future challenges. In this article a combination of personal experience, interviews with respected leaders, and literature were used to reflect on lessons learned as a leader navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. Key components to leadership through a crisis include communication, flexibility, patience, teamwork, resiliency, and understanding individuals’ struggles. What was clear is that the ability of the health care system and the people that drive it to adapt and evolve so rapidly to the COVID-19 pandemic was truly remarkable.
Influence of ocular biometric parameters such as effective lens position, keratometry, and axial length on near add power of multifocal intraocular lens
Authors: Wu Ping , Sun Yang , Peng Hui , Liu Zhen , Wen Yan , Chen Maosheng
Published: April 2022

Visual quality after multifocal intraocular lens (mIOL) implantation has received increased attention. Postoperative residual ametropia, posterior capsule opacification, dry eye, IOL decentration, pupil size, and other factors can affect patient visual acuity. In addition, patient dissatisfaction after mIOL implantation has a relationship with the near add power of mIOLs, which is correlated with vision habits of different patients. Indeed, the actual spectacle plane add power of mIOLs is incompletely consistent with the near add power given by the manufacturers. Ocular biometric parameters such as effective lens position, keratometry, and axial length have effect on the near add power of mIOLs in the lens plane. In this article, the influence of ocular biometric eye parameters on the actual near add power of mIOLs in the lens plane was reviewed.
Challenges and Strategies for Patient Safety in Primary Care: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Yuan Christina T. , Dy Sydney M. , Yuanhong Lai Alden , Oberlander Tyler , Hannum Susan M. , Lasser Elyse C. , Heughan JaAlah-Ai , Dukhanin Vadim , Kharrazi Hadi , Kim Julia M. , Gurses Ayse P. , Bittle Mark , Scholle Sarah H. , Marsteller Jill A.
Published: April 2022

Although most health care occurs in the ambulatory setting, limited research examines how providers and patients think about and enact ambulatory patient safety. This multimethod qualitative study seeks to identify perceived challenges and strategies to improve ambulatory safety from the perspectives of clinicians, staff, and patients. Data included interviews (N = 101), focus groups (N = 65), and observations of safety processes (N = 79) collected from 10 patient-centered medical homes. Key safety issues included the lack of interoperability among health information systems, clinician-patient communication failures, and challenges with medication reconciliation. Commonly cited safety strategies leveraged health information systems or involved dedicated resources (eg, providing access to social workers). Patients also identified strategies not mentioned by clinicians, emphasizing the need for their involvement in developing safety solutions. This work provides insight into safety issues of greatest concern to clinicians, staff, and patients and strategies to improve safety in the ambulatory setting.
Building High-Performance Team Dynamics for Rapid Response Events in a US Tertiary Hospital: A Quality Improvement Model for Sustainable Process Change
Authors: Raff Lauren , Reilly Kelly , Ratner Shana , Moore Carlton , Raff Evan
Published: April 2022

Hospital rapid response systems are designed to reduce unmet patient needs and prevent clinical deterioration. Rapid response teams are the principal component of a rapid response system and require teamwork to function optimally; poor communication among team members can result in substandard patient care. The authors describe a process for developing and implementing standardized communication and a teamwork structure for rapid response events (RREs) at a large academic hospital. The multidisciplinary team developed a project charter and key driver diagram, developed a “communication bundle,” used quality improvement methodology, monitored adherence to the changes, and reported these data to key stakeholders on a weekly basis. By project end, the team met the goal of having 70% or more of adult RREs include the use of the “communication bundle.” The balancing measure demonstrated that the introduction of a formalized communication framework did not significantly increase the duration of RREs.