bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cumulative fission yield measurements with 14.7 MeV neutrons on 238U*
Authors: Yang Xianlin , Lan Changlin , Nie Yangbo , Jiang Liyang , Qiu Yijia , Ge Yujie , Chen Hongtao , Zhang Kai , Wei Yuting , Wang Jiahao , Jiang Gong , Ruan Xichao , Yang Yi
Published: November 2022

The fission yield data in the 14 MeV energy neutron induced fission of 238U play an important role in decay heat calculations and generation-IV reactor designs. In order to accurately measure fission product yields (FPYs) of 238U induced by 14 MeV neutrons, the cumulative yields of fission products ranging from 92Sr to 147Nd in the 238U(n, f) reaction with a 14.7 MeV neutron were determined using an off-line γ-ray spectrometric technique. The 14.7 MeV quasi-monoenergetic neutron beam was provided by the K-400 D-T neutron generator at China Academy of Engineering Physics (CAEP). Fission products were measured by a low background high purity germanium gamma spectrometer. The neutron flux was obtained from the 93Nb (n, 2n)92mNb reaction, and the mean neutron energy was calculated using the cross-section ratios for the 90Zr(n, 2n)89Zr and 93Nb(n, 2n)92mNb reactions. With a series of corrections, high precision cumulative yields of 20 fission products were obtained. Our FPYs for the 238U(n, f) reaction at 14.7 MeV were compared with the existing experimental nuclear reaction data and evaluated nuclear data, respectively. The results will be helpful in the design of a generation-IV reactor and the construction of evaluated fission yield databases.
Wireless optoelectronic devices for vagus nerve stimulation in mice
Authors: Donahue Mary J , Ejneby Malin Silverå , Jakešová Marie , Caravaca April S , Andersson Gabriel , Sahalianov Ihor , Đerek Vedran , Hult Henrik , Olofsson Peder S , Głowacki Eric Daniel
Published: November 2022

Objective. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a promising approach for the treatment of a wide variety of debilitating conditions, including autoimmune diseases and intractable epilepsy. Much remains to be learned about the molecular mechanisms involved in vagus nerve regulation of organ function. Despite an abundance of well-characterized rodent models of common chronic diseases, currently available technologies are rarely suitable for the required long-term experiments in freely moving animals, particularly experimental mice. Due to challenging anatomical limitations, many relevant experiments require miniaturized, less invasive, and wireless devices for precise stimulation of the vagus nerve and other peripheral nerves of interest. Our objective is to outline possible solutions to this problem by using nongenetic light-based stimulation. Approach. We describe how to design and benchmark new microstimulation devices that are based on transcutaneous photovoltaic stimulation. The approach is to use wired multielectrode cuffs to test different stimulation patterns, and then build photovoltaic stimulators to generate the most optimal patterns. We validate stimulation through heart rate analysis. Main results. A range of different stimulation geometries are explored with large differences in performance. Two types of photovoltaic devices are fabricated to deliver stimulation: photocapacitors and photovoltaic flags. The former is simple and more compact, but has limited efficiency. The photovoltaic flag approach is more elaborate, but highly efficient. Both can be used for wireless actuation of the vagus nerve using light impulses. Significance. These approaches can enable studies in small animals that were previously challenging, such as long-term in vivo studies for mapping functional vagus nerve innervation. This new knowledge may have potential to support clinical translation of VNS for treatment of select inflammatory and neurologic diseases.
Approximate zero-crossing: a new interpretable, highly discriminative and low-complexity feature for EEG and iEEG seizure detection
Authors: Zanetti R , Pale U , Teijeiro T , Atienza D
Published: November 2022

Objective. Long-term monitoring of people with epilepsy based on electroencephalography (EEG) and intracranial EEG (iEEG) has the potential to deliver key clinical information for personalised epilepsy treatment. More specifically, in outpatient settings, the available solutions are not satisfactory either due to poor classification performance or high complexity to be executed in resource-constrained devices (e.g. wearable systems). Therefore, we hypothesize that obtaining high discriminative features is the main avenue to improve low-complexity seizure-detection algorithms. Approach. Inspired by how neurologists recognize ictal EEG data, and to tackle this problem by targeting resource-constrained wearable devices, we introduce a new interpretable and highly discriminative feature for EEG and iEEG, namely approximate zero-crossing (AZC). We obtain AZC by applying a polygonal approximation to mimic how our brain selects prominent patterns among noisy data and then using a zero-crossing count as a measure of the dominating frequency. By employing Kullback–Leiber divergence, leveraging CHB-MIT and SWEC-ETHZ iEEG datasets, we compare the AZC discriminative power against a set of 56 classical literature features (CLF). Moreover, we assess the performances of a low-complexity seizure detection method using only AZC features versus employing the CLF set. Main results. Three AZC features obtained with different approximation thresholds are among the five with the highest median discriminative power. Moreover, seizure classification based on only AZC features outperforms an equivalent CLF-based method. The former detects 102 and 194 seizures, against 99 and 161 for the latter (CHB-MIT and SWEC-ETHZ, respectively). Moreover, the AZC-based method keeps a similar false-alarm rate (i.e. an average of 2.1 and 1.0, against 2.0 and 0.5, per day). Significance. We propose a new feature and demonstrate its capability in seizure classification for both scalp and intracranial EEG. We envision the use of such a feature to improve outpatient monitoring with resource-constrained devices.
Investigation for the movement of the laser entrance hole and bubble plasmas in laser-driven hohlraum
Authors: Li Qi , Guo Liang , Li Sanwei , Li Zhichao , Deng Bo , Wang Qiangqiang , Deng Keli , Cao Zhurong , Du Huabin , Che Xinshen , Yang Yimeng , Hou Lifei , Gong Tao , Yang Dong , Yang Jiamin
Published: November 2022

In indirect-drive hohlraum, the heated plasmas from the
laser entrance hole (LEH) and bubbles blow radially inward with
time, which plays an important role in the evolution of hohlraum
plasmas. Previously, the boundary of the LEH and bubble plasmas is
measured using time-integrated x-ray images or x-ray images at
several discrete moments. A new experiment is conducted to study the
continuous temporal behaviors of the LEH and bubble plasmas, which
utilizes a gas-filled hohlraum truncated on one side. Compared
experiments are performed with 3 different LEH diameters (1.0 mm,
1.2 mm, and 1.4 mm). An x-ray streak camera (XSC) is employed for
the first time to diagnose the continuous temporal x-ray images of
the LEH and bubble plasmas, which are also measured by an x-ray
framing camera (XFC) at several discrete moments. The XSC and the
XFC are combined for the first time and give coincident results for
the movement of the LEH and bubble plasmas. In addition, 2 sets of
flat-response x-ray diode (FXRD) measure the total x-ray flux from
both the LEH and the open end and thus give the radiation
temperature (Tr) in the hohlraum. The Tr from the LEH end shows a
visual increase compared with that from the open end, due to the LEH
closure, which is coincident with the temporal x-ray images. This
work presents more precise and detailed description for the
continuous movement of the LEH and bubble plasmas, which is
beneficial to optimize our radiation hydrodynamic code and hohlraum
design for ignition.
Determination of the full energy peak efficiency of HPGe detector for varying soil compositions and Marinelli beaker dimensions using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Hossny K. , Salama E. , Mageed Karwan F. , Zair Al-Bakhat Yousif M. , ElFiki S.
Published: November 2022

Natural radioactivity measurement is studying the radiation
emitted naturally from any nature's components such as air, soil,
water, etc. This field of study plays an important role in public
health and safety management. Scientists and engineers can calculate
the radiation doses received by inhabitants of a certain area by
measuring the natural radioactivity in the same area. One of the
main issues facing the standard measurement procedure is determining
the appropriate volume of the sample to be taken from the area under
investigation. The volume of the investigated sample affects the
detection efficiency of the HPGe detector due to the self-shielding
effect. In this work we show how using artificial neural networks
can help in choosing the proper dimensions of the Marinelli beaker
to be used in the detection process. We used the various
compositions of soil as a case study. Results showed that artificial
neural networks were capable of finding the relation between soil
composition, Marinelli beaker dimensions, and gamma energy as inputs
and the HPGe detection efficiency as output. The developed model's
regression was 99% compared to the detection efficiency calculated
using MCNP. This will help to have a better prediction of the
detection efficiency of natural radioactivity measurements.
Progress in commissioning a neutron/X-ray radiography and tomography systems at IAEA NSIL
Authors: Gan Pingping , Abdelouahed Haifa Ben , Skukan Natko , Bily Tomas , Ridikas Danas
Published: November 2022

The Nuclear Science and Instrumentation Laboratory (NSIL) is currently establishing a Neutron Science Facility (NSF) based on two compact neutron generators: Deuterium-Deuterium (DD), resulting in 2.45 MeV neutrons, and Deuterium-Tritium (DT), resulting in 14.1 MeV neutrons, with maximum source intensities up to 5 × 106 n/s and 4 × 108 n/s over 4π, respectively. Neutron/X-ray radiography and tomography are two of the applications the NSF will be equipped with. In this paper, we report the state of the radiography and tomography system, and the neutron/X-ray radiography and tomography experiments we performed. Good radiographs and tomographs are obtained with X-ray. The spatial resolution of the X-ray radiography system is measured to be about 0.1 mm. The thermal neutron radiographs and fast neutron radiographs have proved that the DD neutron generator will be beneficial to demonstrate neutron radiography capabilities for educational purposes. Additionally, the detail of the collimator optimization of the DD neutron radiography was presented.
Health effects of liquid and gaseous fuels for household energy use: systematic evidence mapping
Authors: Nix Emily , Fleeman Nigel , Lorenzetti Federico , Lewis Jessica , Shen Guofeng , Abebe Lydia , Li Yaojie , Xing Ran , Maden Michelle , Duarte Rui , Bresnahan Rebecca , Williams Kendra N , Adair-Rohani Heather , Pope Daniel , Puzzolo Elisa
Published: November 2022

Exposure to household air pollution results in a substantial global health burden. The World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality: Household Fuel Combustion stipulate emission rates for household energy devices should meet air quality guidelines and protect health. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), biogas, natural gas (NG), and alcohol fuels are considered clean for health due to their low emissions at the point of use. In light of the ongoing energy transition and increasing emphasis on these fuels, it is imperative to provide an updated synthesis of the impacts of these fuels on health. A systematic review was completed on the health effects of liquid and gaseous fuels for household energy use for cooking, heating, and lighting across high-, middle- and low-income countries. Comprehensive searches were undertaken in 12 international databases and selected studies were compiled into a new publicly available WHO Health Effects of Household Liquid & Gaseous Fuels Database, containing key study characteristics including pollutants and/or health outcomes measured. This database was then mapped to understand the breadth of evidence and potential gaps. From 48 130 search results, 587 studies were extracted for inclusion in the database on completion of the full-text review. Studies represented low-, middle- and high-income countries (HICs) over several decades - there has been a substantial increase in evidence from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) published in the last decade, particularly in Asia. Most evidence focused on LPG for cooking in LMICs or NG used in HICs for cooking and heating. Women were the most studied demographic, with self-reported health outcomes and symptoms being the most common assessment method. Particulate matter and nitrogen oxides were the most monitored pollutants. A wide array of health symptoms and disease and injury outcomes were assessed, and most concerned respiratory health. This is the first time that evidence on the health effects of liquid and gaseous fuels for household energy use has been systematically catalogued and mapped. Most evidence concerned cooking and heating, with a paucity of information on the health effects from lighting. Limited evidence was available on the health effects of liquid fuels (such as alcohol fuels), with most studies concerning gaseous fuels. The WHO Health Effects of Household Liquid & Gaseous Fuels Database represents a valuable resource to enable the examination of the positive and negative health effects from these fuels.
Effect of neutral pressure on the blue core in Ar helicon plasma under an inhomogeneous magnetic field
Authors: WANG Chenwen , LIU Yang , SUN Meng , ZHANG Tianliang , XIE Junfa , CHEN Qiang , ZHANG Haibao
Published: November 2022

The effect of neutral pressure on the blue core in Ar helicon plasma under an inhomogeneous magnetic field was investigated in this work. The neutral pressure was set to 0.08 Pa, 0.36 Pa, and 0.68 Pa. A Nikon camera, intensified charge-coupled device (ICCD), optical emission spectrometer (OES), and Langmuir probe were used to diagnose the blue core in helicon plasma. Helicon plasma discharges experienced density jumps from the E mode, H mode to W mode before power just rose to 200 W. The plasma density increased and maintained a central peak with the increase of neutral pressure. However, the brightness of the blue core gradually decreased. It is demonstrated that the relative intensity of Ar II spectral lines and the ionization rate in the central area were reduced. Radial electron temperature profiles were flattened and became hollow as neutral pressure increased. It is demonstrated that increasing the neutral pressure weakened the central heating efficiency dominated by the helicon wave and strengthened the edge heating efficiency governed by the TG wave and skin effect. Therefore, the present experiment successfully reveals how the neutral pressure affects the heating mechanism of helicon plasma in an inhomogeneous magnetic field.
An analysis and preliminary experiment of the discharge characteristics of RF ion source with electromagnetic shielding
Authors: WANG Na , LIU Zhimin , XIE Yahong , WEI Jianglong , JIANG Caichao , LIU Wei , PENG Xufeng , SU Guojian , XIE Junwei
Published: November 2022

Combined with two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) finite element analysis and preliminary experimental tests, the effects of size and placement of the electromagnetic shield of the radio-frequency (RF) ion source with two drivers on plasma parameters and RF power transfer efficiency are analyzed. It is found that the same input direction of the current is better for the RF ion source with multiple drivers. The electromagnetic shield (EMS) should be placed symmetrically around the drivers, which is beneficial for the plasma to distribute uniformly and symmetrically in both drivers. Furthermore, the bigger the EMS shield radius is the better generating a higher electron density. These results will be of guiding significance to the design of electromagnetic shielding for RF ion sources with a multi-driver.
Review of the structure and performance of through-holed anodes and cathodes prepared with a picosecond pulsed laser for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Matsumoto Futoshi , Yamada Mitsuru , Tsuta Masaya , Nakamura Susumu , Ando Nobuo , Soma Naohiko
Published: November 2022

To move the performance of lithium-ion batteries into the next stage, the modification of the structure of cells is the only choice except for the development of materials exhibiting higher performance. In this review paper, the employment of through-holing structures of anodes and cathodes prepared with a picosecond pulsed laser has been proposed. The laser system and the structure for improving the battery performance were introduced. The performance of laminated cells constructed with through-holed anodes and cathodes was reviewed from the viewpoints of the improvement of high-rate performance and energy density, removal of unbalanced capacities on both sides of the current collector, even greater high-rate performance by hybridizing cathode materials and removal of irreversible capacity. In conclusion, the points that should be examined and the problem for the through-holed structure to be in practical use are summarized.
Constraints on parameter choices for successful time-series prediction with echo-state networks
Authors: Storm L , Gustavsson K , Mehlig B
Published: November 2022

Echo-state networks are simple models of discrete dynamical systems driven by a time series. By selecting network parameters such that the dynamics of the network is contractive, characterized by a negative maximal Lyapunov exponent, the network may synchronize with the driving signal. Exploiting this synchronization, the echo-state network may be trained to autonomously reproduce the input dynamics, enabling time-series prediction. However, while synchronization is a necessary condition for prediction, it is not sufficient. Here, we study what other conditions are necessary for successful time-series prediction. We identify two key parameters for prediction performance, and conduct a parameter sweep to find regions where prediction is successful. These regions differ significantly depending on whether full or partial phase space information about the input is provided to the network during training. We explain how these regions emerge.
The physiological blood concentration of phenylalanine-proline can ameliorate cholesterol metabolism in HepG2 cells
Authors: Banno Arata , Yamamoto Mako , Mijiti Maihemuti , Takeuchi Asahi , Ye Yuyang , Oda Natsuki , Nishino Nanami , Ebihara Akio , Nagaoka Satoshi
Published: November 2022

We have previously reported that the dipeptide Phe-Pro affects lipid metabolism in vivo and in vitro, but very little is known regarding the mechanism of action of Phe-Pro after it is absorbed by the intestines via PepT1. In this study, we administered a single oral dose of Phe-Pro to rats and quantified its concentration in the portal plasma using LC-TOF/MS analysis. Additionally, the physiological blood concentration of Phe-Pro was added to the lipid accumulation model of HepG2 cells to decrease intracellular cholesterol and increase the expression of CYP7A1 and PPARα mRNA levels. Moreover, we analyzed the binding of PPARα and Phe-Pro using AlphaFold2. We found that Phe-Pro is a ligand for PPARα. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that shows Phe-Pro to be present in the portal plasma. We found for the first time that Phe-Pro ameliorated cholesterol metabolism in HepG2 cells.
ImaGene: a web-based software platform for tumor radiogenomic evaluation and reporting
Authors: Sukhadia Shrey S , Tyagi Aayush , Venkataraman Vivek , Mukherjee Pritam , Prasad Pratosh , Gevaert Olivier , Nagaraj Shivashankar H
Published: November 2022

Radiographic imaging techniques provide insight into the imaging features of tumor regions of interest, while immunohistochemistry and sequencing techniques performed on biopsy samples yield omics data. Relationships between tumor genotype and phenotype can be identified from these data through traditional correlation analyses and artificial intelligence (AI) models. However, the radiogenomics community lacks a unified software platform with which to conduct such analyses in a reproducible manner. To address this gap, we developed ImaGene, a web-based platform that takes tumor omics and imaging datasets as inputs, performs correlation analysis between them, and constructs AI models. ImaGene has several modifiable configuration parameters and produces a report displaying model diagnostics. To demonstrate the utility of ImaGene, we utilized data for invasive breast carcinoma (IBC) and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and identified potential associations between imaging features and nine genes (WT1, LGI3, SP7, DSG1, ORM1, CLDN10, CST1, SMTNL2, and SLC22A31) for IBC and eight genes (NR0B1, PLA2G2A, MAL, CLDN16, PRDM14, VRTN, LRRN1, and MECOM) for HNSCC. ImaGene has the potential to become a standard platform for radiogenomic tumor analyses due to its ease of use, flexibility, and reproducibility, playing a central role in the establishment of an emerging radiogenomic knowledge base.

Availability and implementation

www.ImaGene.pgxguide.org, https://github.com/skr1/Imagene.git.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at https://github.com/skr1/Imagene.git.
Learning at your brain’s rhythm: individualized entrainment boosts learning for perceptual decisions
Authors: Michael Elizabeth , Covarrubias Lorena Santamaria , Leong Victoria , Kourtzi Zoe
Published: November 2022

Training is known to improve our ability to make decisions when interacting in complex environments. However, individuals vary in their ability to learn new tasks and acquire new skills in different settings. Here, we test whether this variability in learning ability relates to individual brain oscillatory states. We use a visual flicker paradigm to entrain individuals at their own brain rhythm (i.e. peak alpha frequency) as measured by resting-state electroencephalography (EEG). We demonstrate that this individual frequency-matched brain entrainment results in faster learning in a visual identification task (i.e. detecting targets embedded in background clutter) compared to entrainment that does not match an individual’s alpha frequency. Further, we show that learning is specific to the phase relationship between the entraining flicker and the visual target stimulus. EEG during entrainment showed that individualized alpha entrainment boosts alpha power, induces phase alignment in the pre-stimulus period, and results in shorter latency of early visual evoked potentials, suggesting that brain entrainment facilitates early visual processing to support improved perceptual decisions. These findings suggest that individualized brain entrainment may boost perceptual learning by altering gain control mechanisms in the visual cortex, indicating a key role for individual neural oscillatory states in learning and brain plasticity.
Occupations Associated With Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection and Vaccination, US Blood Donors, May 2021–December 2021
Authors: Shah Melisa M , Spencer Bryan R , Feldstein Leora R , Haynes James M , Benoit Tina J , Saydah Sharon H , Groenewold Matthew R , Stramer Susan L , Jones Jefferson M
Published: November 2022

Background

There are limited data on the risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in the United States by occupation. We identified occupations at higher risk for prior SARS-CoV-2 infection as defined by the presence of infection-induced antibodies among US blood donors.

Methods

Using a nested case-control study design, blood donors during May–December 2021 with anti-nucleocapsid (anti-N) testing were sent an electronic survey on employment status, vaccination, and occupation. The association between previous SARS-CoV-2 infection and occupation-specific in-person work was estimated using multivariable logistic regression adjusting for sex, age, month of donation, race and ethnicity, education, vaccination, and telework.

Results

Among 85 986 included survey respondents, 9504 (11.1%) were anti-N reactive. Healthcare support (20.3%), protective service (19.9%), and food preparation and serving related occupations (19.7%) had the highest proportion of prior infection. After adjustment, prior SARS-CoV-2 infection was associated with healthcare practitioners (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.74–2.54) and healthcare support (aOR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.39–2.40) occupations compared with computer and mathematical occupations as the referent group. Lack of coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination (aOR, 16.13; 95% CI, 15.01–17.34) and never teleworking (aOR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.05–1.30) were also independently associated with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. Construction and extraction occupations had the highest proportion of unvaccinated workers (30.5%).

Conclusions

Workers in healthcare, protective services, and food preparation had the highest prevalence of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. Occupational risks for SARS-CoV-2 infection remained after adjusting for vaccination, telework, and demographic factors. These findings underscore the need for mitigation measures and personal protection in healthcare settings and other workplaces.
Differential-Aided Preimage Attacks On Round-Reduced Keccak
Authors: Wei Congming , Dong Xiaoyang , Meier Willi , Qin Lingyue , Fu Ximing
Published: November 2022

At FSE 2008, Leurent introduced the preimage attack on MD4 by exploiting differential trails. In this paper, we apply the differential-aided preimage attack to Keccak with the message modification techniques. Instead of directly finding the preimage, we exploit differential characteristics to modify the messages, so that the differences of their hashing values and the changes of given target can be controlled. By adding some constraints, a trail can be used to change one bit at a time and reduce the time complexity by a factor of 2. When the number of rounds increases, we introduce two-stage modification techniques to satisfy part of constraints as well. In order to solve other constraints, we also combine the linear-structure technique and accordingly give a preimage attack on 5-round Keccak[$r=1440,c=160,l=80$].
Strong Anonymous Communication System Based on Segment Routing Over SDN
Authors: Feng Li , Ni Xiaoling , Ling Zhen , Wang Liangmin
Published: November 2022

Software defined networking (SDN) has brought a novel networking paradigm for achieving the goal of anonymous communication. In this paper, we propose a strong anonymous communication scheme based on segment routing (STAR), which does not need all forwarding devices to support OpenFlow protocol and is easy to deploy in SDNs. In STAR, by expanding the packet format of segment routing via Sphinx protocol, the required routing information is encrypted and hidden in the packet header to prevent the enemy from associating with the communication parties. Moreover, to avoid the adversary connecting the communication parties based on load information, the trust controller is employed as an auxiliary node to negotiate the symmetric key between the communication parties for encrypting the packet load. The theoretical analysis shows that, when the adversary compromises multiple intermediate nodes, a low correct linking probability and effective attack resistance are obtained, which proves the weak correlation and stronger anonymity of STAR. Besides, evaluation results confirm that, compared with existing anonymous systems, the proposed STAR can ensure stronger anonymity and higher throughput (83.7% for that of no anonymity) by just introducing very small communication latency (microseconds) and resource cost. Especially for the large-volume data in large-scale SDNs, the advantages will be more obvious.
Pledge-and-Review Bargaining: from Kyoto to Paris
Authors: Harstad Bård
Published: November 2022

A tractable dynamic model of international climate policies is analysed. The choice of bargaining game influences participation levels, emission quotas and technology investment levels. I derive several predictions that are arguably consistent with the differences between the 1997 Kyoto Protocol and the 2015 Paris Agreement—including the transitioning from the former to the latter.
Ventricular morphology of single-ventricle hearts has a significant impact on outcomes after Fontan palliation: a meta-analysis
Authors: Ponzoni Matteo , Azzolina Danila , Vedovelli Luca , Gregori Dario , Di Salvo Giovanni , D’Udekem Yves , Vida Vladimiro , Padalino Massimo A
Published: November 2022

OBJECTIVES

A conclusive interpretation of the role of ventricular dominance in outcomes after Fontan palliation has not been formulated yet. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of scientific literature to give an insight into the impact of ventricular morphology in single-ventricle palliation, focusing on its influence on survival, morbidities, ventricular performance and functional capacity.

METHODS

A systematic review of PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases was performed. A random-effect meta-analysis was conducted, and survival data were reconstructed using the published Kaplan–Meier survival curves.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven studies were selected, for a total of 4529 left-dominant versus 4844 right-dominant patients. Estimated survival at 1, 5, 10, 20 and 30 years of follow-up was 0.99 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.98–0.99], 0.95 [95% CI = 0.94–0.96], 0.92 [95% CI = 0.91–0.93], 0.86 [95% CI = 0.84–0.88] and 0.68 [95% CI = 0.65–0.83] for left-dominant patients and 0.94 [95% CI = 0.93–0.95], 0.89 [95% CI = 0.88–0.9], 0.85 [95% CI = 0.83–0.87], 0.69 [95% CI = 0.63–0.75] and 0.59 [95% CI = 0.5–0.69] for right-dominant patients, respectively. Survival was statistically lower for right-dominant patients (P < 0.001), with an hazard ratio for the mortality of 2.38 (2.03–2.80); also, they displayed significantly longer hospital stay, worse ventricular function, larger ventricular volumes and a higher incidence of moderate or severe atrioventricular valve regurgitation when compared to left-dominant patients.

CONCLUSIONS

According to our meta-analysis, the morphology of the dominant ventricle has a significant impact on outcomes after Fontan palliation. Right-dominant patients experience an inferior long-term survival when the anatomical right ventricle is included in the systemic circulation.
May Measurement Month 2018: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Benin
Authors: Houehanou Corine , Sonou Arnaud , Adjagba Philippe , Dohou Hugues , Hounkponou Murielle , Kpolédji Gwladys , Saka Dominique , Assogba Gildas , Assani Salimatou , Wang Wei , Beaney Thomas , Poulter Neil R , Codjo Léopold , Houenassi Martin D
Published: November 2022

Hypertension is the strongest cardiovascular risk factor worldwide. May Measurement Month (MMM) is an international campaign for blood pressure (BP) screening initiated by the International Society of Hypertension. This work aims to estimate the proportion and the levels of awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension in participants of the MMM survey in Benin in 2018. A cross-sectional survey focused on people aged ≥18 years was conducted in May 2018 in nine rural and urban areas in Benin. A sampling of volunteers was done. BP was measured following the MMM protocol. Hypertension was defined as a systolic BP ≥140 mm Hg and/or a diastolic BP ≥90 mm Hg (mean of the second and third readings) and/or taking antihypertensive medication. Linear regression was used to identify BP associations. A total of 2035 people were screened, including 55.9% women. The mean age was 44.2 ± 15.9 years. The percentage with hypertension was 35.4%. Of 721 participants with hypertension, 56.2% were aware of their diagnosis, 39.7% were on antihypertensive medication, and 13.6% were controlled (<140/90 mmHg). The results confirm the significant proportion of hypertension in Benin. Education programs on risk factors, early detection, and better management strategies should be developed.
A novel and practical method to add video monitoring to tilt table testing
Authors: de Lange Frederik Jorrit , Hofland Willem Petrus Merijn Emmanuël , Ferrara Alessio , Gargaro Alessio , Brignole Michele , van Dijk Jan Gerrit
Published: November 2022

Aims

We describe a novel, practical, and inexpensive method to add video recording during tilt table testing (TTT): Open-Access-Video-TTT.

Methods and results

The Open-Access-Video-TTT set-up uses a personal computer (PC) to capture screen video data from a non-invasive-beat-to-beat (NIBTB) haemodynamic blood pressure (BP) device, combined with video recording of a patient, using Open Broadcaster Software (OBS®). The new Open-Access-Video-TTT set up was tested with both the Finometer (model Finapres Nova®, Medical Systems, the Netherlands) and the Task Force® Touch Cardio monitor (CNSystems, Austria). For this, the Finapres Nova® was enabled in ‘remote’ mode and Real Video Network Computing (RealVNC®) was installed on the PC/laptop. The Task Force® has a DisplayPort (DP) port, for which a DP/ high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) cable and a video capture card is used to merge the signals to the PC/laptop. With this method the combined images are stored as a new video signal. TTT can be performed with any routine protocol.

Conclusions

Open Access-Video-TTT worked well for both the Finapres NOVA® and the Task Force Monitor ®. This novel method can be used easily by all physicians who wish to add video recording during TTT who do not have access to an electroencephalogram machine.
Metabolic pathways and ΔpH regulation in Escherichia coli during the fermentation of glucose and glycerol in the presence of formate at pH 6.5: the role of FhlA transcriptional activator
Authors: Gevorgyan Heghine , Khalatyan Satenik , Vassilian Anait , Trchounian Karen
Published: November 2022

Escherichia coli is able to ferment mixed carbon sources and produce various fermentation end-products. In this study, the function of FhlA protein in the specific growth rate (µ), metabolism, regulation of ΔpH and proton ATPase activity was investigated. Reduced µ in fhlA mutant of ∼25% was shown, suggesting the role of FhlA in the growth process. The utilization rate of glycerol is decreased in fhlA ∼ 2 fold, depending on the oxidation-reduction potential values. Bacteria regulate the activity of hydrogenase enzymes during growth depending on the external pH, which manifests as a lack of hydrogen gas generation during glycerol utilization at pH values below 5.9. It is suggested that cells maintain ΔpH during the fermentative growth via formate-lactate-succinate exchange. The decrement of the value of pHin, but not of pHex in mutant cells, is regulating ΔpH and consequently proton motive force generation.
Subjective Cognitive Decline Is Associated With Lower Baseline Cognition and Increased Rate of Cognitive Decline
Authors: Morrison Cassandra , Oliver Michael D
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is a known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. However, little research has examined whether healthy older adults with SCD (SCD+) exhibit lower cognition and increased rates of cognitive decline compared to those without SCD (SCD−). The goal of this study was to examine if cognitive change over a 15-year period differs between SCD+ and SCD−.

Method

3,019 cognitively normal older adults (831 SCD+) from 3 Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center cohort studies were followed annually for up to a maximum of 15 years. Due to attrition, the average follow-up time was 5.7 years. Cognition was measured using z-scores of global cognition, episodic memory, semantic memory, perceptual speed, visuospatial ability, and working memory. Linear mixed-effects models investigated whether SCD was associated with cognitive change.

Results

Both baseline cognition and cognitive change over time differed between SCD+ and SCD−. People with SCD+ exhibited lower baseline scores and a steeper decline in global cognition, episodic memory, semantic memory, and perceptual speed. People with SCD+ did not differ from SCD− in baseline visuospatial ability or working memory but exhibited increased change over time in those two domains compared to SCD−.

Discussion

The observed results reveal that older adults with SCD+ have lower baseline cognition and steeper declines in cognition over time compared to SCD−. Older adults with SCD may be aware of subtle cognitive declines that occur over time in global cognition, episodic memory, semantic memory, perceptual speed, visuospatial ability, and working memory compared to those without SCD.
The Paradox of the DABUS Judgment of the German Federal Patent Court
Authors: Kim Daria
Published: November 2022

The judgment of the German Federal Patent Court (Bundespatentgericht) in the Food container case1 holds a unique place in the worldwide series of DABUS2 cases. On the one hand, it confirmed that an artificial intelligence (AI) system cannot be regarded as an inventor under patent law, which has so far been a dominant trend in other jurisdictions concerned with the matter.3 On the other hand, it allowed the applicant Stephen Thaler, who insisted on not having invented the food container, to be designated as the inventor in the patent application, thus, opening up an opportunity for him to become the patent owner. While the case outcome may appear as a constructive compromise, one may question the internal consistency of the court’s reasoning. This analysis shows that the judgment is paradoxical in that, by allowing Thaler to be deemed the inventor of the food container, it contradicts the very principle of human creativity underlying the inventor’s (moral) right to be named – the principle that was relied upon by the adjudicating Board when denying the designation of DABUS as the inventor.
Is news media sharing an active framing process? Examining whether individual tweets retain news media frames about climate change
Authors: Hubner Austin , Dixon Graham
Published: November 2022

Social network sites have become a primary tool for consuming and sharing news. Typically, sharing a news media article on social media involves two pieces of information: the news media frame and the individual’s commentary. With framing as an active, iterative process, we examine the extent to which individuals replicate or reframe when sharing news about climate change to Twitter. First, we conducted a framing analysis of news about climate change. Then, we assessed whether tweets sharing the news media articles in our framing analysis (n = 9,557) retained or reframed the original frame. Results show 74.64% of the tweets were not a direct replication of the original news media frame. Furthermore, the likelihood that an individual chose to reframe depended on the frame of the original article. Overall, our study illustrates how a constructionist framing approach can be applied to understand the dynamic nature of news sharing on Twitter.
Natural variations of HSFA2 enhance thermotolerance in grapevine
Authors: Liu Xinna , Chen Haiyang , Li Shenchang , Lecourieux David , Duan Wei , Fan Peige , Liang Zhenchang , Wang Lijun
Published: November 2022

Heat stress limits growth and development of crops including grapevine which is a popular fruit in the world. Genetic variability in crops thermotolerance is not well understood. We identified and characterized heat stress transcription factor HSFA2 in heat sensitive Vitis vinifera ‘Jingxiu’ (named as VvHSFA2) and heat tolerant Vitis davidii ‘Tangwei’ (named as VdHSFA2). The transcriptional activation activities of VdHSFA2 are higher than VvHSFA2, the variation of single amino acid (Thr315Ile) in AHA1 motif leads to the difference of transcription activities between VdHSFA2 and VvHSFA2. Based on 41 Vitis germplasms, we found that HSFA2 is differentiated at coding region among heat sensitive V. vinifera, and heat tolerant Vitis davidii and Vitis quinquangularis. Genetic evidence demonstrates VdHSFA2 and VvHSFA2 are positive regulators in grape thermotolerance, and the former can confer higher thermotolerance than the latter. Moreover, VdHSFA2 can regulate more target genes than VvHSFA2. As a target gene of both VdHSFA2 and VvHSFA2, overexpression of MBF1c enhanced the grape thermotolerance whereas dysfunction of MBF1c resulted in thermosensitive phenotype. Together, our results revealed that VdHSFA2 confers higher thermotolerance than VvHSFA2, and MBF1c acts as their target gene to induce thermotolerance. The VdHSFA2 may be adopted for molecular breeding in grape thermotolerance.
Real-time monitoring of polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis by the shadowgraph technique
Authors: Murakami Satoshi , Adachi Hiroaki , Matsumura Hiroyoshi , Takano Kazufumi , Inoue Tsuyoshi , Mori Yusuke
Published: November 2022

Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) with sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) and Coomassie brilliant blue (CBB) staining is widely used in protein research and requires time for electrophoresis, staining and destaining. Because the protein bands electrophoresed in the gel are invisible in most cases, the results cannot be observed until the whole process is complete. In this study, shadowgraph was applied to detect biomolecules such as proteins during electrophoresis. A simple optical system and camera-enabled real-time monitoring of migration and separation of individual protein bands in polyacrylamide gels without staining. The visibility was high enough that it was possible to visualize substances other than proteins, such as DNA. This method provides protein profiles instantly in the early stage of electrophoresis. The elimination of the staining and destaining steps will help save researchers’ time. The method is also environmentally friendly and will help reduce the generation of waste solutions containing synthetic dyes.
Transmission of Xylella fastidiosa subsp. pauca ST53 by the Sharpshooter Cicadella viridis From Different Source Plants and Artificial Diets
Authors: Bodino Nicola , Cavalieri Vincenzo , Saponari Maria , Dongiovanni Crescenza , Altamura Giuseppe , Bosco Domenico
Published: November 2022

The sharpshooter Cicadella viridis L. (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) is the most common sharpshooter in Europe and, given its xylem feeding behavior, is considered a potential vector of the plant pathogenic bacterium Xylella fastidiosa Wells et al. (Xanthomonadales: Xanthomonadaceae). We tested X. fastidiosa subsp. pauca ST53 (Xfp) transmission capabilities of C. viridis adults, namely 1) acquisition efficiency from four host plant species—periwinkle, milkwort, lavender, alfalfa—and from two artificial diets (PD3 and Xfm), 2) inoculation efficiency to periwinkle at different times post acquisition from different plant and artificial diet sources. The main European vector species—Philaenus spumarius L. (Hemiptera: Aphrophoridae)—was used as a control. C. viridis was able to acquire Xfp from periwinkle, milkwort, and lavender, although with low efficiency (3–16%) and from artificial diets (23–25%). Successful inoculation on periwinkle was extremely rare, being observed only three times, following feeding on milkwort plant and PD3 artificial diet sources. Our study shows that C. viridis is not a relevant vector of Xfp, given the very low transmission rate in controlled conditions, and the inability to feed on olive. The low efficiency reported here correlates with ecological constraints of the vector (mainly monocots host plants, humid environments) that make it difficult to forecast a relevant role in dispersing X. fastidiosa, at least within the present distribution of the exotic bacterium in Europe. However, a possible role of this species in spreading Xf in other agroecosystems, e.g., vineyard and stone fruits grown in humid areas, cannot be excluded.
Mesorectal excision with or without lateral lymph node dissection for elderly patients with mid-low rectal cancer: safety and feasibility analysis
Authors: Zhou Sicheng , Mei Shiwen , Feng Bo , Yang Yingchi , Wang Xin , Wang Quan , Liu Qian ,   the Chinese Lateral Node Collaborative Group
Published: November 2022

Objective

The perioperative safety and survival benefits of lateral lymph node dissection in elderly patients have been less reported. This study aimed to compare short-term and survival outcomes of total mesorectal excision and total mesorectal excision + lateral lymph node dissection in elderly patients.

Methods

A total of 444 elderly patients (≥65 years) with middle-low rectal cancer were enrolled in three institutions and divided into the total mesorectal excision + lateral lymph node dissection group (n = 110) and the total mesorectal excision group (n = 334). Eighty-three matched pairs were selected for evaluation after propensity matching. Data of 297 patients (age <65 years) with middle-low rectal cancer who underwent total mesorectal excision + lateral lymph node dissection were also collected and reviewed. Clinical and pathological features, postoperative outcomes and survival data were collected and analyzed.

Results

Compared with the total mesorectal excision group, the operation time of patients in the total mesorectal excision + lateral lymph node dissection group was significantly longer (277.6 vs. 171.4 min, P < 0.001), and the estimated blood loss was significantly more (119.6 vs. 57.5 ml, P = 0.014). Although there was no significant difference in overall complications (24.1% vs. 14.4%, P = 0.115) and grade 3–5 complications (9.6% vs. 7.2%, P = 0.576) between the two groups, the incidence of urinary retention (10.8% vs. 2.4%, P = 0.029) was higher in the total mesorectal excision + lateral lymph node dissection group. Two groups of patients achieve a similar 3-year overall survival (92.8% vs. 85.4%, P = 0.195) and 3-year disease-free survival (81.5% vs. 73.0%, P = 0.625). In addition, we compared long-term outcomes in 110 elderly patients with total mesorectal excision + lateral lymph node dissection and 297 non-elderly patients with total mesorectal excision + lateral lymph node dissection, and the results showed that 3-year (89.2% vs. 80.9%, P = 0.546) and disease-free survival (76.4% vs. 70.4%, P = 0.346) were similar between elderly and non-elderly patients.

Conclusions

Although urinary retention is closely related to the implementation of lateral lymph node dissection in elderly patients, total mesorectal excision with lateral lymph node dissection could be performed safely with accepted overall and grade 3–5 postoperative complications in elderly patients with rectal cancer. Moreover, elderly patients with clinical lateral lymph node metastasis can also benefit from lateral lymph node dissection as well as younger patients. Prospective studies with large sample sizes are needed to verify our results further.
Neuropathological findings in COVID-19: an autopsy cohort
Authors: Eschbacher Kathryn L , Larsen Rachel A , Moyer Ann M , Majumdar Ramanath , Reichard Robert Ross
Published: November 2022

The literature regarding the neuropathological findings in cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection, which causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is expanding. We identified 72 patients who died of COVID-19 (n = 48) or had recovered shortly before death (n = 24) and had autopsies performed at our institution (49 males, 23 females; median age at death 76.4 years, range: 0.0–95.0 years). Droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 was performed (n = 58) in multiple brain regions. In cases the assay was successfully completed (n = 50), 98.0% were negative (n = 49) and 2% were indeterminate (n = 1). Most histologic findings were typical of the patient age demographic, such as neurodegenerative disease and arteriolosclerosis. A subset of cases demonstrated findings which may be associated with sequelae of critical illness. We identified 3 cases with destructive perivascular lesions with axonal injury, one of which also harbored perivascular demyelinating lesions. These rare cases may represent a parainfectious process versus sequelae of vascular injury. The lack of detectable SARS-CoV-2 by ddPCR or significant histologic evidence of direct infection suggests that active encephalitis is not a feature of COVID-19.