bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explaining the GDP trend of oil‐exporting countries during COVID‐19 period: The role of governance, adaptive stringency and fiscal policy
Authors: Ghecham Mahieddine Adnan
Published: March 2024

This paper brings to light the factors that played major role in explaining the trend of the economic growth of a number of oil‐exporting countries during the pandemic period, specifically, during the years 2020–2021 and 2022. The results show that the institutional factors, adaptive restrictions as well as the degree of trade openness and the size of government fiscal intervention were major determinants of the trend of the GDP of the countries in question. Based on the findings, the paper recommends some policy measures and highlights important future challenges that test efforts of globalization.
Dietary management ofIgEandnon‐IgE‐mediated food allergies in pediatric patients
Authors: Venter Carina , Roth‐Walter Franziska , Vassilopoulos Emilia , Hicks Allison
Published: March 2024

Food allergies (FA) consist of both IgE and non‐IgE‐mediated entities, with varying phenotypes and overlapping and different considerations for each specific disease presentation. In general, all FAs place children at increased risk for inadequate nutritional intake and negative impacts on their nutritional status, as well as negative impacts on the quality of life for the entire family. To minimize these untoward effects, a multidisciplinary approach should be taken, including consultation and management with a dietitian trained in the varying presentations of FA. Families should be instructed on label reading as a first line of nutritional management. During a nutrition consultation, the age of the child, growth, and nutritional status should be considered. Food refusal should be assessed and addressed. Families should be educated on avoidance and appropriate substitutions. In the case of cow's milk allergy, a suitable specialized formula should be suggested if the infant is not breastfed or if breast milk supply is not sufficient. Other mammalian milk should be avoided and careful consideration should be given before plant‐based milk is used in young children. Specific food allergies may differ in terms of advice provided on the level of avoidance required, whether precautionary advisory labels should be avoided, and if a maternal avoidance of the allergen during breastfeeding should be advised. The role of immunonutrition on overall health should be discussed.
Triptan treatment is associated with a higher number of red wine‐induced migraine episodes: An exploratory questionnaire‐based survey
Authors: Nedergaard Laura , Martens Maria Celine , Christensen Michala Daniela Bach , Pellesi Lanfranco
Published: March 2024

Aim

Diet, including foods and beverages, affects migraine. Conversely, the influence of migraine therapies on dietary habits is largely unknown. This study aimed at investigating the effects of triptan intake on foods and drinks consumed by adults with migraine with and/or without aura.

Methods

An exploratory questionnaire‐based survey took place online between November 2022 and June 2023. Participants were recruited through advertisements shared on social media accounts (e.g., Facebook and Instagram) and seasonal newsletters of three Danish patient associations. In addition, posters and flyers in headache and pain centers at Danish hospitals and private neurological, pain, and physiotherapeutic clinics were utilized.

Results

A total of 314 adults with migraine with and/or without aura completed the survey. Among the respondents, 236 individuals (75.2%) regularly used triptans to treat their migraines. Compared with non‐triptan users, individuals using triptans were characterized by significantly more foods and/or drinks triggering migraine (74.2% vs. 56.4%, p = 0.005). Alcoholic beverages and most specifically red wine were overreported as migraine triggers by triptan users (48.3% vs. 21.8%, p < 0.001). In the week preceding the survey, red wine was significantly less consumed by triptan users than non‐triptan users (92.4% vs. 76.9%, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Patients who regularly consume triptans report red wine most frequently as a migraine trigger. Triptan users are characterized by a lower consumption of red wine than non‐triptan users, suggesting that a regular triptan intake may promote an increased sensitivity to red wine‐induced migraine.
Predictors of survival of large non‐occlusal non‐incisal glass‐ionomer restorations in older adults
Authors: Shi Nailin , Peter Tabitha , Caplan Daniel J. , Xie Xian Jin , Dang Connor A. , Welhaven Anne , Pendleton Chandler , Allareddy Veeratrishul , Kolker Justine L. , Marchini Leonardo
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the predictors of survival of non‐occlusal non‐incisal glass‐ionomer restorations as a surrogate for root surface restorations among older adults.

Methods

In a retrospective cohort analysis using the University of Iowa College of Dentistry electronic dental records, we included 721 patients aged 65+ who received 2+ surface non‐occlusal non‐incisal glass ionomer restorations placed from January 2005 – December 2011. Restorations were followed until September 2017 or until they were deemed to have failed.

Results

At baseline, participants’ mean age was 77.6 ± 8.2 years, and 45.8% were females. Most patients were self‐pay (65.2%). Most restorations were placed by residents and dental students (82.7%) and included only two surfaces (95.6%). About half (49.1%) failed during follow‐up, with a median survival time of 3.7 years. The time ratio for lower incisors compared to other teeth was 0.6 (p = .006), for three‐and‐four‐surface restorations compared to two was 0.7 (p = .007), for faculty as providers compared to residents and students was 1.4 (p = .039), and for the Geriatric & Special Needs Clinic compared to others was 0.8 (p = .013). Time ratios less than one indicate association with shorter durations for restorations, and time ratios greater than one indicate association with longer durations for restorations.

Conclusion

Tooth type, number of restored surfaces, provider type, and clinic were all significant factors associated with survival of these restorations.
Soil health and carbon storage in community gardens in the Perth metropolitan area, Australia
Authors: Zhao Haochen , O'Connor James , Zou Sarah , Solaiman Zakaria M. , Mickan Bede S. , Bolan Nanthi
Published: March 2024

Community gardens, as common spaces where people gather to grow food, help foster public health, greener urban environments, life‐long learning and vibrant communities. However, despite being promoted as sustainable horticulture and conservation agriculture, their soil health and carbon (C) sequestration potential, with implication for climate change mitigation, remains underexplored. This study assessed soil samples collected from raised beds (gardening area) and adjacent bare ground (control) at six community gardens in the Perth metropolitan area, Australia. These sites covered three soil mapping units (SMUs): calcareous deep sands, coloured sand and pale sands The soil in raised beds exhibited superior characteristics than surrounding urban soil including lower bulk density, higher pH buffering capacity, available nutrients including nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), cation exchange capacity (CEC), total C and microbial biomass. Notably, we estimated that raised bed soils accumulated significant levels of C in the top 10 cm layer (0.55 kg/m2 or 5.5 T/ha). Our findings also indicate no significant heavy metal contamination in any of the community garden soils. Although the global area of community gardens is marginally small, these results suggest they hold potential for carbon sequestration, especially in urban and peri‐urban environments. The improved soil health and C storage potential in community garden soil are largely attributed to the regular application of compost produced within the community gardens.
Reversible primes
Authors: Dartyge Cécile , Martin Bruno , Rivat Joël , Shparlinski Igor E. , Swaenepoel Cathy
Published: March 2024

For an ‐bit positive integer written in binary as where , , , let us define the digital reversal of . Also let . With a sieve argument, we obtain an upper bound of the expected order of magnitude for the number of such that and are prime. We also prove that for sufficiently large ,
where denotes the number of prime factors counted with multiplicity of and is an absolute constant. Finally, we provide an asymptotic formula for the number of ‐bit integers such that and are both squarefree. Our method leads us to provide various estimates for the exponential sum
Female thermal sensitivity and behaviour across the lifespan: A unique journey
Authors: Filingeri Davide , Blount Hannah , Valenza Alessandro
Published: March 2024

Women are a group of individuals that undergo unique anatomical, physiological and hormonal changes across the lifespan. For example, consider the impact of the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause, all of which are accompanied by both short‐ and long‐term effects on female body morphology (e.g., changes in breast size) and temperature regulation, heat tolerance, thermal sensitivity and comfort. However, empirical evidence on how skin thermal and wetness sensitivity might change across the lifespan of women, and the implications that this has for female‐specific thermal behaviours, continues to be lacking. This paper is based on a symposium presentation given at Physiology 2023 in Harrogate, UK. It aims to review new evidence on anatomical and physiological mechanisms underpinning differences in skin thermal and wetness sensitivity amongst women varying in breast size and age, in addition to their role in driving female thermal behaviours. It is hoped that this brief overview will stimulate the development of testable hypotheses to increase our understanding of the behavioural thermal physiology of women across the lifespan and at a time of climate change.
Impact Disturbance Rejection for a Humanoid Robot With Optimal Footstep Regulation Trigger
Authors: Zhang Runming , Chen Xuechao , Zhang Yu , Yu Zhangguo , Huang Qiang
Published: March 2024

Rejecting impact force by adjusting footsteps during walking is crucial for a humanoid robot in an interactive environment. This paper proposes an optimal footstep regulation trigger for an analytic footstep regulation algorithm in the singular-linear-quadratic-preview walking controller framework. The trigger avoids regulating the footstep in every cycle to reduce the computational cost. Moreover, adjusting the footstep at the optimal trigger time achieves lower regulation cost than before and after the optimal trigger time. Before implementing the optimal trigger, we propose a method to identify the impact force occurrence based on the feedback acceleration and zero moment point. After that, a determining function about system states is calculated over time. According to the analysis, the regulation cost meets the minimum when the value of the determining function is null. The moment is taken as the optimal trigger time. The method is demonstrated by experiments with multiple directions of impact forces.
Bioresorbable shape-adaptive structures for ultrasonic monitoring of deep-tissue homeostasis
Authors: Liu Jiaqi , Liu Naijia , Xu Yameng , Wu Mingzheng , Zhang Haohui , Wang Yue , Yan Ying , Hill Angela , Song Ruihao , Xu Zijie , Park Minsu , Wu Yunyun , Ciatti Joanna L. , Gu Jianyu , Luan Haiwen , Zhang Yamin , Yang Tianyu , Ahn Hak-Young , Li Shupeng , Ray Wilson Z. , Franz Colin K. , MacEwan Matthew R. , Huang Yonggang , Hammill Chet W. , Wang Heling , Rogers John A.
Published: March 2024

Monitoring homeostasis is an essential aspect of obtaining pathophysiological insights for treating patients. Accurate, timely assessments of homeostatic dysregulation in deep tissues typically require expensive imaging techniques or invasive biopsies. We introduce a bioresorbable shape-adaptive materials structure that enables real-time monitoring of deep-tissue homeostasis using conventional ultrasound instruments. Collections of small bioresorbable metal disks distributed within thin, pH-responsive hydrogels, deployed by surgical implantation or syringe injection, allow ultrasound-based measurements of spatiotemporal changes in pH for early assessments of anastomotic leaks after gastrointestinal surgeries, and their bioresorption after a recovery period eliminates the need for surgical extraction. Demonstrations in small and large animal models illustrate capabilities in monitoring leakage from the small intestine, the stomach, and the pancreas.
Breathing control of vocalization
Authors: Hage Steffen R.
Published: March 2024

A crucial brainstem circuit for vocal-respiratory coordination of the larynx is revealed
U.S. giant telescopes imperiled by funding limit
Authors: Clery Daniel
Published: March 2024

NSF faces choice between multibillion-dollar projects after board sets cost cap
Gars truly are ‘living fossils,’ massive DNA data set shows
Authors: Heidt Amanda
Published: March 2024

The fish’s genomes change so slowly that species separated since the dinosaurs can produce fertile hybrids today
Phospholipase C epsilon-1 (PLCƐ1) mediates macrophage activation and protection against tuberculosis
Authors: Gupta Ananya , Thirunavukkarasu Shyamala , Rangel-Moreno Javier , Ahmed Mushtaq , Swanson Rosemary V. , Mbandi Stanley Kimbung , Smrcka Alan V. , Kaushal Deepak , Scriba Thomas J. , Khader Shabaana A.
Published: March 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) caused by
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(
Mtb
) infects up to a quarter of the world’s population. Although immune responses can control
Mtb
infection, 5%–10% of infected individuals can progress to active TB disease (progressors). A myriad of host factors regulate disease progression in TB and a better understanding of immune correlates of protection and disease is pivotal for the development of new therapeutics. Comparison of human whole blood transcriptomic metadata with that of macaque TB progressors and
Mtb
-infected diversity outbred mice (DO) led to the identification of differentially regulated gene (DEG) signatures, associated with TB progression or control. The current study assessed the function of Phospholipase C epsilon (
PLCƐ1
), the top downregulated gene across species in TB progressors, using a gene-specific knockout mouse model of
Mtb
infection and in vitro
Mtb
-infected bone marrow-derived macrophages.
PLCƐ1
gene expression was downregulated in TB progressors across species.
PLCε1
deficiency in the mouse model resulted in increased susceptibility to
Mtb
infection
,
coincident accumulation of lung myeloid cells, and reduced ability to mount antibacterial responses. However,
PLCε1
was not required for the activation and accumulation of T cells in mice. Our results suggest an important early role for
PLCƐ1
in shaping innate immune response to TB and may represent a putative target for host-directed therapy.
Complete genome of
Microbacterium plantarum
CoE-159-22, isolated from traditionally produced Montenegrin cheese
Authors: Daza Prieto Beatriz , Raicevic Nadja , Hyden Patrick , Mösenbacher Tobias , Ladstätter Johann , Stöger Anna , Cabal Adriana , Mach Robert L. , Martinovic Aleksandra , Ruppitsch Werner
Published: March 2024

Microbacterium plantarum
(
M. plantarum
) was recently described as a new species isolated from copper globemallow (
Sphaeralcea angustifolia
). Here, we report the complete genome of
M. plantarum
CoE-159-22, which was obtained from traditionally produced Montenegrin cheese.
A comparison of short-read, HiFi long-read, and hybrid strategies for genome-resolved metagenomics
Authors: Eisenhofer Raphael , Nesme Joseph , Santos-Bay Luisa , Koziol Adam , Sørensen Søren Johannes , Alberdi Antton , Aizpurua Ostaizka
Published: March 2024

Shotgun metagenomics enables the reconstruction of complex microbial communities at a high level of detail. Such an approach can be conducted using both short-read and long-read sequencing data, as well as a combination of both. To assess the pros and cons of these different approaches, we used 22 fecal DNA extracts collected weekly for 11 weeks from two respective lab mice to study seven performance metrics over four combinations of sequencing depth and technology: (i) 20 Gbp of Illumina short-read data, (ii) 40 Gbp of short-read data, (iii) 20 Gbp of PacBio HiFi long-read data, and (iv) 40 Gbp of hybrid (20 Gbp of short-read +20 Gbp of long-read) data. No strategy was best for all metrics; instead, each one excelled across different metrics. The long-read approach yielded the best assembly statistics, with the highest N50 and lowest number of contigs. The 40 Gbp short-read approach yielded the highest number of refined bins. Finally, the hybrid approach yielded the longest assemblies and the highest mapping rate to the bacterial genomes. Our results suggest that while long-read sequencing significantly improves the quality of reconstructed bacterial genomes, it is more expensive and requires deeper sequencing than short-read approaches to recover a comparable amount of reconstructed genomes. The most optimal strategy is study-specific and depends on how researchers assess the trade-off between the quantity and quality of recovered genomes.

IMPORTANCE

Mice are an important model organism for understanding the gut microbiome. When studying these gut microbiomes using DNA techniques, researchers can choose from technologies that use short or long DNA reads. In this study, we perform an extensive benchmark between short- and long-read DNA sequencing for studying mice gut microbiomes. We find that no one approach was best for all metrics and provide information that can help guide researchers in planning their experiments.
On Embedding of Besov Spaces of Zero Smoothness into Lorentz Spaces
Authors: Stolyarov D. M.
Published: March 2024

We show that the zero smoothness Besov space $$B_{p,q}^{0,1}$$ does not embed into the Lorentz space $$L_{p,q}$$ unless $$p=q$$; here $$p,q\in (1,\infty)$$. This answers in the negative a question posed by O. V. Besov.
What is cystic fibrosis screen positive inconclusive diagnosis? And what is it not?
Authors: Devoy Emily , Hughes Dominic , Alharbi Asma Falah , Francis Jacqueline , Davies Jane C
Published: March 2024

Since screening for cystic fibrosis (CF) was incorporated into the newborn screening program, the number of recognised variants in theCF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene has significantly increased. This has led to the discovery of combinations of gene variants with an uncertain prognosis. One outcome is the designation of ‘cystic fibrosis screen positive inconclusive diagnosis’ (CFSPID). While the majority of these children are expected to be unaffected by theirCFTRvariants, a small proportion have been seen to develop symptoms or increasing sweat chloride levels over time, which may reflect dysfunction of the CFTR protein.

As the number of children with CFSPID increases, paediatricians and those working in primary care are more likely to encounter them in their practice. It is important that professionals have an understanding of CFSPID: what it is and, importantly, what it is not (ie, they do not have CF). In this article, we hope to explore this using some example cases, illustrating the ways in which these children may present symptomatically and how to manage them.
Longitudinal changes in diet quality and food intake before and after diabetes awareness in American adults: the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study
Authors: Cha EunSeok , Choi Yuni , Bancks Michael , Faulkner Melissa Spezia , Dunbar Sandra B , Umpierrez Guillermo E , Reis Jared , Carnethon Mercedes R , Shikany James M , Yan Fengxia , Jacobs David R
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Limited longitudinal research is available examining how American adults make dietary changes after learning they have diabetes. We examined the associations between diabetes awareness and changes in dietary quality and food intake in a prospective cohort from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study.

Research design and methods

A nested case-control design was used. In the original CARDIA study, black and white participants were recruited from four US urban areas and partitioned into one control group (no diabetes over 30-year follow-up) and three case groups (early-onset, intermediate-onset, later-onset diabetes groups) based on timing of diagnosis and first awareness of diabetes. Estimated meanA Priori Diet Quality Score(APDQS), and food subgroup intake were examined at three CARDIA examinations (year (Y)0, Y7, and Y20). The mean APDQS with 95% CIs and food intake (servings/day) were compared across the one control group and three case groups using exam-specific and repeated measures linear regression.

Results

Among 4576 participants (mean age: 25±4 years; 55% female; 49% black race), 653 incident cases (14.3%) of diabetes were observed over 30 years. APDQS was lowest at Y0 when the diabetes-free participants were aged 18–30 years (61.5–62.8), but increased over 20 years with advancing age across all groups (64.6–73.3). Lower APDQS in young adulthood was associated with a higher incidence of diabetes later in life. Diabetes awareness was associated with a net increase of 2.95 points in APDQS. The greatest increase of APDQS was when people learned of their diabetes for the first time (an increase of 5.71 in early-onset and 6.64 in intermediate-onset diabetes groups, respectively).

Conclusions

Advancing age and diabetes awareness were associated with more favorable dietary changes leading to improved diet quality. Optimal diet quality and healthy food intake in young adulthood seem important to prevent diabetes later in life.
Prepublication abstract-only reports compared with full-text manuscripts for randomised controlled trials in inflammatory bowel disease: a systematic review
Authors: Sinopoulou Vassiliki , Gordon Morris , Moran Gordon William , Egiz Abdullah Mohammed Abousaleh ma , Phlananthachai Sanjana , Rane Aditi , Al-Tameemi Ahmed Hussein Ali
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of key therapies in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are often presented and available as abstracts for significant periods of time prior to full publication, often being employed to make strategic and clinical prescribing decisions. We compared the concordance of prepublication abstract-only reports and their respective full-text manuscripts.

Methods

Pairs of full-text manuscripts and their respective prepublication abstract-only reports for the same RCT outcomes, at the same time point of analysis were included. The RCTs were on treatments for IBD with full-text manuscripts published between 2010 and 2023.

Results

We found 77 pairs of full-text manuscripts and their prepublication abstract-only reports. There were significant mismatches in the reporting of stated planned outcomes (65/77 matched, p<0.001) and primary outcomes reported in their results sections (67/77, p<0.001); trial registrations (34/65, p<0.001); the number of randomised participants (49/77, p=0.18); participants reaching end of study (21/71, p<0.001) and primary outcome data (40/73, p<0.001). Authors conclusions matched (75/77, p=0.157). Authors did not provide explicit or implied justifications for the absence or non-concordance for any of the above items.

Conclusions

Abstract-only reports have consistent issues with both limited reporting of key information and significant differences in data when compared with their later full-text publications. These are not related to further recruitment of patients or word count limitations and are never explained. As abstracts are often used in guidelines, reviews and stakeholder decision-making on prescribing, caution in their use is strongly suggested. Further work is needed to enhance minimum reporting standards in abstract-only works and ensure consistency with final published papers.
All cause and cause specific mortality associated with transition to daylight saving time in US: nationwide, time series, observational study
Authors: Zhao Shi , Cao Wangnan , Liao Gengze , Guo Zihao , Xu Lufei , Shen Chen , Chang Chun , Liang Xiao , Wang Kai , He Daihai , Sun Shengzhi , Chen Rui , Dominici Francesca
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To estimate the association between the transition to daylight saving time and the risks of all cause and cause specific mortality in the US.

Design

Nationwide time series observational study based on weekly data.

Setting

US state level mortality data from the National Center for Health Statistics, with death counts from 50 US states and the District of Columbia, from the start of 2015 to the end of 2019.

Population

13 912 837 reported deaths in the US.

Main outcome measures

Weekly counts of mortality for any cause, and for Alzheimer's disease, dementia, circulatory diseases, malignant neoplasms, and respiratory diseases.

Results

During the study period, 13 912 837 deaths were reported. The analysis found no evidence of an association between the transition to spring daylight saving time (when clocks are set forward by one hour on the second Sunday of March) and the risk of all cause mortality during the first eight weeks after the transition (rate ratio 1.003, 95% confidence interval 0.987 to 1.020). Autumn daylight saving time is defined in this study as the time when the clocks are set back by one hour (ie, return to standard time) on the first Sunday of November. Evidence indicating a substantial decrease in the risk of all cause mortality during the first eight weeks after the transition to autumn daylight saving time (0.974, 0.958 to 0.990). Overall, when considering the transition to both spring and autumn daylight saving time, no evidence of any effect of daylight saving time on all cause mortality was found (0.988, 0.972 to 1.005). These patterns of changes in mortality rates associated with transition to daylight saving time were consistent for Alzheimer's disease, dementia, circulatory diseases, malignant neoplasms, and respiratory diseases. The protective effect of the transition to autumn daylight saving time on the risk of mortality was more pronounced in elderly people aged ≥75 years, in the non-Hispanic white population, and in those residing in the eastern time zone.

Conclusions

In this study, transition to daylight saving time was found to affect mortality patterns in the US, but an association with additional deaths overall was not found. These findings might inform the ongoing debate on the policy of shifting daylight saving time.
Mezagitamab in systemic lupus erythematosus: clinical and mechanistic findings of CD38 inhibition in an autoimmune disease
Authors: McDonnell Scott R P , Nguyen Van Anh , Walton Noah M , Merkwirth Carsten , Hong Feng , Berg Deborah , Muensterman Elena Tomaselli , Furie Richard A
Published: March 2024

Objective

To evaluate safety and mechanism of action of mezagitamab (TAK-079), an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody, in patients with moderate to severe systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

A phase 1b double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentre study was conducted in patients with SLE receiving standard background therapy. Eligible patients were adults who met the 2012 SLICC or ACR criteria for diagnosis, had a baseline SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K) score of ≥6 and were positive for anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies and/or anti-extractable nuclear antigens antibodies. Patients received 45 mg, 90 mg or 135 mg of mezagitamab or placebo every 3 weeks over 12 weeks. Primary endpoints were safety and tolerability. Secondary endpoints included pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Exploratory assessments included disease activity scales, deep immune profiling and interferon pathway analysis.

Results

22 patients received at least one dose of either mezagitamab or placebo. In patients exposed to mezagitamab (n=17), drug was well tolerated. Adverse event (AEs) were balanced across treatment groups, with no treatment emergent AEs exceeding grade 2. Responder analyses for Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Disease Area and Severity Index (CLASI) and SLEDAI-2K did not reveal any observable differences across treatment groups. However, there was a trend for more profound skin responses among patients with higher CLASI scores (>10) at baseline. Pharmacodynamic analysis showed median CD38 receptor occupancy up to 88.4% on CD38+ natural killer cells with concurrent depletion of these cells up to 90% in the 135 mg group. Mean reductions in IgG and autoantibodies were less than 20% in all dose groups. Cytometry by time of flight and type 1 interferon gene analysis revealed unique fingerprints that are indicative of a broad immune landscape shift following CD38 targeting.

Conclusions

Mezagitamab had a favourable safety profile in patients with moderate to severe SLE and elicited a pharmacodynamic effect consistent with CD38+ cell depletion. These findings reveal novel insights into the drug’s mechanism of action and support the continued investigation of mezagitamab in autoimmune diseases.
Hyperactivation and altered selection of B cells in patients with paediatric Sjogren’s syndrome
Authors: Boni Alessandra , Nicolai Rebecca , Caiello Ivan , Marinaro Francesca , Farina Luciapia , Pires Marafon Denise , Carsetti Rita , De Benedetti Fabrizio , Bracaglia Claudia , Marasco Emiliano
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Paediatric Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) is a rare chronic autoimmune disorder, characterised by inflammation of exocrine glands. B cell hyperactivation plays a central role in adult-onset Sjogren. This study was designed to analyse B cell and T cell phenotype, levels of BAFF, and selection of autoreactive B cells in patients with pSS.

Methods

A total of 17 patients diagnosed with pSS and 13 healthy donors (controls) comparable for age were enrolled in the study. B cell and T cell subsets and frequency of autoreactive B cells in peripheral blood were analysed by flow cytometry. Levels of BAFF were analysed by ELISA.

Results

The relative frequency of total B cells, transitional, naïve and switched memory B cells was similar between pSS patients and controls. In patients with pSS, we observed a reduction in the frequency of unswitched memory B cells, an increased frequency of atypical memory B cells and an expansion of PD1hiCXCR5−T peripheral helper cells. Levels of BAFF were higher in patients with pSS compared with controls and correlated with serum levels of total IgG and titres of anti-Ro antibodies. The frequency of autoreactive B cells in the transitional, unswitched memory and plasmablast compartment was significantly higher in pSS patients than in controls.

Conclusions

Our results point to a hyperactivation of B cells in pSS. Current therapies do not seem to affect B cell abnormalities, suggesting that novel therapies targeting specifically B cell hyperactivation need to be implemented for paediatric patients.
Sports drinks do not increase acute kidney injury risk in males during industrial work in the heat when euhydration is maintained, a randomized crossover trial
Authors: Atkins Whitley C. , McKenna Zachary J. , McDermott Brendon P.
Published: March 2024

Industrial workers regularly perform physical labor under high heat stress, which may place them at risk for dehydration and acute kidney injury. Current guidelines recommend that workers should consume sports drinks to maintain euhydration during work shifts. However, the impact of fructose sweetened sports drinks on acute kidney injury risk is unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of sports drink consumption on markers of acute kidney injury following simulated industrial work in the heat. Twenty males completed two matched 2 h simulated industrial work trial visits in a warm and humid environment (30 °C and 55% relative humidity). During and following the bout of simulated work, participants consumed either a commercially available sports drink or a noncaloric placebo. Urine and blood samples, collected pre-, post-, and 16 h post-work were assayed for markers of hydration (plasma/urine osmolality, and urine specific gravity) and acute kidney injury (KIM-1 and NGAL). There were no differences in physiological or perceptual responses to the bout of work (interaction p > 0.05 for all indices), and markers of hydration were similar between trials (interaction p > 0.05 for all indices). KIM-1 (Placebo: Δ Ln 1.18 ± 1.64; Sports drink: Δ Ln 1.49 ± 1.10 pg/mL; groupwide d = 0.89, p < 0.001) and NGAL (Placebo: Δ Ln 0.44 ± 1.11; Sports drink: Δ Ln 0.67 ± 1.22 pg/mL; groupwide d = 0.39, p = 0.03) were elevated pre- to post-work, but there were no differences between trials (interaction p > 0.05). These data provide no evidence that consumption of fructose sweetened sports drinks increases the risk of acute kidney injury during physical work in the heat.
Experimental and theoretical study of sediment scour around angled bridge piers
Authors: Habibi Kamyab , Fard Farinaz Erfani , Pari Seyed Amin Asghari , Shafai-Bejestan Mahmood
Published: March 2024

The present study investigated a square-shaped group pier with attack angles of 0°, 10°, 15°, 20°, and 30° and spacing of 2, 3, and 4 times the pier width and a single pier with the same attack angles in the same experimental conditions. Also, a semi-empirical equation was presented for predicting the maximum depth of scour for single pier and group pier, which had good agreement with experimental results. Results indicated that by considering the angle of the single square pier, the flow impact area on the pier was altered, and the maximum depth of scour was reduced due to deformation resulting from the attack angle of the pier. In the tests related to the group pier, the attack angle of 15° was known as the critical attack angle in this study, which agreed with the results of previous studies.
Dynamics of viable f(R) dark energy models in the presence of curvature–matter interactions
Authors: Chatterjee Anirban , Roy Rahul , Dey Sayantan , Bandyopadhyay Abhijit
Published: March 2024

In this study, we analyze the dynamics of the interaction between dark matter and curvature-driven dark energy in viable f(R) gravity models using the framework of dynamical system analysis. We incorporate this interaction by introducing a source term in their respective continuity equations, given by $$Q = \frac{\kappa ^2 \alpha }{3\,H}\tilde{\rho }_\textrm{m}\rho _\textrm{curv}$$

Q
=

κ
2

α

3

H

ρ
~

m

ρ
curv

, and examine two f(R) gravity models that comply with local gravity constraints and cosmological viability criteria. Our findings reveal subtle modifications to fixed points and their stability criteria when compared to the conventional dynamical analysis of f(R) gravity models without matter-curvature interactions as proposed and examined in prior literature. We determine the parameter limits associated with the stability criteria of critical points of the dynamical system for both the models. Additionally, the introduction of interaction reveals variations in the dynamical aspects of cosmic evolution, contingent on the range of values for the relevant model parameters. These results are consistent with the observed features of cosmic evolution within specific limits of the f(R) models parameters and the coupling parameter $$\alpha $$
α
. We also examine the evolutionary dynamics of the universe in the interacting scenario through cosmological and cosmographic parameters. Our analysis demonstrates that the interacting scenario comprehensively accounts for all the observed phases of the universe’s evolution and also results in a stable late-time cosmic acceleration. Additionally, we’ve studied how the coupling parameter affects evolutionary dynamics, particularly its impact on the matter-to-curvature energy density ratio. Our findings suggest that the chosen form of interaction can also address the cosmic coincidence problem.
The simpliciality of higher-order networks
Authors: Landry Nicholas W. , Young Jean-Gabriel , Eikmeier Nicole
Published: March 2024

Higher-order networks are widely used to describe complex systems in which interactions can involve more than two entities at once. In this paper, we focus on inclusion within higher-order networks, referring to situations where specific entities participate in an interaction, and subsets of those entities also interact with each other. Traditional modeling approaches to higher-order networks tend to either not consider inclusion at all (e.g., hypergraph models) or explicitly assume perfect and complete inclusion (e.g., simplicial complex models). To allow for a more nuanced assessment of inclusion in higher-order networks, we introduce the concept of “simpliciality” and several corresponding measures. Contrary to current modeling practice, we show that empirically observed systems rarely lie at either end of the simpliciality spectrum. In addition, we show that generative models fitted to these datasets struggle to capture their inclusion structure. These findings suggest new modeling directions for the field of higher-order network science.
Global Phase Portraits of Piecewise Quadratic Differential Systems with a Pseudo-Center
Authors: Barkat Meriem , Benterki Rebiha , Ponce Enrique
Published: March 2024

This paper deals with the global dynamics of planar piecewise smooth differential systems constituted by two different vector fields separated by one straight line that passes through the origin. From a quasi-canonical family of piecewise quadratic differential systems with a pseudo-focus point at the origin, which has six parameters, we investigate the subfamilies where the origin is indeed a pseudo-center. For such subfamilies, we classify its global phase portraits in the Poincaré disk and the associated bifurcation sets.
Finite-Time Synchronization of Fractional-Order Nonlinear Systems with State-Dependent Delayed Impulse Control
Authors: Gokul P. , Mohanrasu S. S. , Kashkynbayev A. , Rakkiyappan R.
Published: March 2024

This paper delves into the topics of Finite-Time Stabilization (FTS) and Finite-Time Contractive Stabilization (FTCS) for Fractional-Order Nonlinear Systems (FONSs). To address these issues, we employ a State-Dependent Delayed Impulsive Controller (SDDIC). By leveraging both Lyapunov theory and impulsive control theory, we establish sufficient conditions for achieving stability criteria for fractional-order systems. Initially, we employ the aforementioned sufficient conditions to derive stability criteria for general FONSs within the SDDIC framework, employing Linear Matrix Inequality (LMI) techniques. Furthermore, we apply these theoretical findings to tackle the challenge of finite-time synchronization in fractional-order chaotic systems using the proposed SDDIC. We substantiate the efficacy of these theoretical advancements through numerical simulations that vividly demonstrate their capability to achieve finite-time synchronization in fractional-order cellular neural networks and fractional-order Chua’s circuits. Moreover, we introduce an innovative chaos-based multi-image encryption algorithm, thereby contributing significantly to the field. To ensure the algorithm’s robustness, we subject it to rigorous statistical tests, which confidently affirm its capacity to provide the requisite level of security.
The Effects of Negative Regulation on the Dynamical Transition in Epileptic Network
Authors: Hou Songan , Wang Haodong , Fan Denggui , Yu Ying , Wang Qingyun
Published: March 2024

The transiting mechanism of abnormal brain functional activities, such as the epileptic seizures, has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we employ a probabilistic neural network model to investigate the impact of negative regulation, including negative connections and negative inputs, on the dynamical transition behavior of network dynamics. It is observed that negative connections significantly influence the transition behavior of the network, intensifying the oscillation of discharge probability, corresponding to uneven discharge and epileptic states. Negative inputs, within a certain range, exhibited a similar impact on the dynamic state of the network as negative connections, enhancing network oscillations and resulting in higher fragility. However, larger negative inputs can led to the disappearance of oscillations in the discharge probability, indicating a maintenance of lower fragility. We speculate that negative regulation may be an indispensable factor in the occurrence of epileptic seizures, and future research should give it due consideration.
On characteristic classes modulo torsion for spin groups
Authors: Karpenko Nikita A.
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we study the ring of Chow characteristic classes (also called the Chow ring of the classifying space) for the split spin group Spin([Formula: see text]) with [Formula: see text] odd or divisible by [Formula: see text]. For such [Formula: see text] up to [Formula: see text], we determine this ring modulo torsion.
Multi-Domain Collaborative Task Allocation and Conflict Resolution in Unmanned Systems under Complex Constraints
Authors: Liu Qihui , Huang Kuihua , Liu Haiying , Wang Rui , Cheng Guangquan
Published: March 2024

Under the background that multi-domain collaborative tasks with complex constraints executed by heterogeneous unmanned systems, based on a consensus-based bundle algorithm, a consensus-based synergy algorithm is proposed to solve the distributed multi-domain collaborative task planning problem. First, a multi-domain collaborative task allocation model and score evaluation system are established by considering task resource requirement constraints, task timing constraints, and path threat constraints. Second, the time sequence constraints of collaborative tasks are transformed into elastic time window constraints. The bidding method based on collaborative constraints is used for task allocation, and the improved consistency conflict resolution principle is adopted to realize distributed multi-domain collaborative task allocation conflict resolution. Finally, the path planning is coupled to the task allocation process by using the Bezier curve path, and the results of multi-domain collaborative task allocation and path planning are obtained synchronously. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can effectively solve the problem of multi-domain collaborative task planning for heterogeneous unmanned systems.
Self-adapting Machine Learning-based Systems via a Probabilistic Model Checking Framework
Authors: Casimiro Maria , Soares Diogo , Garlan David , Rodrigues Luís , Romano Paolo
Published: March 2024

This article focuses on the problem of optimizing the system utility of Machine Learning (ML)-based systems in the presence of ML mispredictions. This is achieved via the use of self-adaptive systems and through the execution of adaptation tactics, such asmodel retraining, which operate at the level of individual ML components.

To address this problem, we propose a probabilistic modeling framework that reasons about the cost/benefit tradeoffs associated with adapting ML components. The key idea of the proposed approach is to decouple the problems of estimating (1) the expected performance improvement after adaptation and (2) the impact of ML adaptation on overall system utility.

We apply the proposed framework to engineer a self-adaptive ML-based fraud detection system, which we evaluate using a publicly available, real fraud detection dataset. We initially consider a scenario in which information on the model’s quality is immediately available. Next, we relax this assumption by integrating (and extending) state-of-the-art techniques for estimating the model’s quality in the proposed framework. We show that by predicting the system utility stemming from retraining an ML component, the probabilistic model checker can generate adaptation strategies that are significantly closer to the optimal, as compared against baselines such as periodic or reactive retraining.
Toward Energy-efficient STT-MRAM-based Near Memory Computing Architecture for Embedded Systems
Authors: Li Yueting , Wang Xueyan , Zhang He , Pan Biao , Qiu Keni , Kang Wang , Wang Jun , Zhao Weisheng
Published: March 2024

Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) have significantly impacted embedded system applications across various domains. However, this exacerbates the real-time processing and hardware resource-constrained challenges of embedded systems. To tackle these issues, we propose spin-transfer torque magnetic random-access memory (STT-MRAM)-based near memory computing (NMC) design for embedded systems. We optimize this design from three aspects: Fast-pipelined STT-MRAM readout scheme provides higher memory bandwidth for NMC design, enhancing real-time processing capability with a non-trivial area overhead. Direct index compression format in conjunction with digital sparse matrix-vector multiplication (SpMV) accelerator supports various matrices of practical applications that alleviate computing resource requirements. Custom NMC instructions and stream converter for NMC systems dynamically adjust available hardware resources for better utilization. Experimental results demonstrate that the memory bandwidth of STT-MRAM achieves 26.7 GB/s. Energy consumption and latency improvement of digital SpMV accelerator are up to 64× and 1,120× across sparsity matrices spanning from 10% to 99.8%. Single-precision and double-precision elements transmission increased up to 8× and 9.6×, respectively. Furthermore, our design achieves a throughput of up to 15.9× over state-of-the-art designs.
Crossover Flux and Ionic Resistance Metrics in Polysulfide-Permanganate Redox Flow Battery Membranes
Authors: Cassady Harrison J. , Yang Zhiwei , Rochow Maria F. , Saraidaridis James D. , Hickner Michael A.
Published: March 2024

A survey of 23 commercially available cation exchange membranes was performed for the downselection of membranes for use in a polysulfide-permanganate redox flow battery (pS-Mn RFB). The survey measured the flux of permanganate ions across a 0.1 mol L−1 concentration gradient as well as the membrane resistance in a 0.5 mol L−1 sodium chloride solution. The membranes exhibited the characteristic flux/resistance trade-off observed in most classes of membranes. To connect the individual membrane testing to how the membranes will perform in a device, cell performance data in a pS-Mn RFB was collected for three membranes from the survey. The coulombic, voltaic, and energy efficiency at low cycle counts aligned with the predictions from the membrane flux and resistance survey results. The study also identified three membranes—Fumapem F-930-RFS, Fumapem FS-715-RFS, and Aquivion E98-09S—that outperformed most other membranes regarding their position on the flux-resistance trade-off curve, indicating them to be good candidates for further testing.
Mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathophysiology of renal diseases
Authors: Guo Yuxian , Che Ruochen , Wang Peipei , Zhang Aihua
Published: March 2024

Mitochondria are essential organelles in the human body, serving as the metabolic factory of the whole organism. When mitochondria are dysfunctional, it can affect all organs of the body. The kidney is rich in mitochondria, and its function is closely related to the development of kidney diseases. Studying the relationship between mitochondria and kidney disease progression is of great interest. In the past decade, scientists have made inspiring progress in investigating the role of mitochondria in the pathophysiology of renal diseases. This article discusses various mechanisms for maintaining mitochondrial quality, including mitochondrial energetics, mitochondrial biogenesis, mitochondrial dynamics, mitochondrial DNA repair, mitochondrial proteolysis and the unfolded protein response, mitochondrial autophagy, mitochondria-derived vesicles, and mitocytosis. The article also highlights the cross talk between mitochondria and other organelles, with a focus on kidney diseases. Finally, the article concludes with an overview of mitochondria-related clinical research.