bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the working condition of large power solar panel cleaning device
Authors: Saitov E. , Khushakov G. , Masharipova U. , Mamasaliyev O. , Rasulova S.
Published: April 2023

Solar energy is becoming a key resource of electrical energy in the modern world. Therefore, it is necessary to use it rationally and profitably. The article deals with the issues of efficient use of solar panels due to automatic cleaning devices in winter. The proposed device allows you to use solar energy in maximum quantities, regardless of weather conditions and seasons. This device can be used in the construction of new solar power plants, as well as in the modernization of existing ones. The development and modernization of solar energy will improve the economic side of the energy situation in our country in the future.
Analysis of destruction and protection of details of agricultural machinery
Authors: Hozhimatov A.
Published: April 2023

Working parts and parts of agricultural machinery are made of special steels that decompose under the influence of various aggressive environments. In this experimental work, special types of metals were selected and their corrosion properties were determined. Studies have shown that, in general, metal materials used in machinery are more likely to corrode, corrode, or decompose in an agriculturally active corrosion environment. According to the selected method, the properties of adhesion or adhesion of the protective coatings to the metal surface, which are tested in atmospheric air in the environment of chemical and mineral fertilizers, were analyzed.
Modelling and calculation of stumulated oscillation for a crushing plant with vibration
Authors: Savinykh Petr , Aleshkin Alexei , Isupov Alexei , Kipriyanov Fedor , Skhlyaev Vladimir
Published: April 2023

The paper presents the results of the mathematical modelling of external stimuli to improve the efficiency of the removal of grain material from the grinding zone. Thus, the authors proposed to improve the evacuation conditions of the finished product from the working chamber of the crushing plant, as one of these solutions to improve the grinding process in crushers. As a result of creation of external vibrating influence. For this purpose, the calculation chart for modelling the proceeding process of the crushing plant body movement is created which takes into account weight and sizes of the crusher, weight, angular velocity of rotation and eccentric piece location, as well as rigidity of an elastic suspension on which the crusher is established. For the solution of the posed problem, we used methods of analytical mechanics, the Lagrange equation of the second kind, for the mechanical system with two degrees of freedom. As a result of calculations amplitude-frequency characteristics of mechanical system are determined. The conclusion about the choice of the angular velocity of the eccentric rotation for creation of necessary external stimulating influence on the crushing system and improvement of conditions of evacuation of a ready product from a working zone is given. The resonance frequencies of firstand second-order system vibrations and the vibrator frequency are determined to achieve resonance frequencies. Keywords: vibration, modelling, Lagrangian equations of the second kind, grinding, crushing plant.
Energy-efficient building materials for Arctic conditions as a criterion for “green building”
Authors: Karachentseva Iana , Kuzmenkov Alexander , Kaychenov Alexander , Voronin Zahar
Published: April 2023

The article presents the results of the analysis of the category “building materials” as one of the criteria for buildings environmental certification. The research aims to study one of the categories of “green” certification systems - environmental friendliness and energy efficiency of materials used in construction. The requirements for building materials in international and national rating systems of environmental certification of buildings are considered. Particular attention is paid to determining the most significant characteristics and parameters of building materials as a criterion for “green” construction in the Arctic territories. The use of energy-efficient “green” materials is considered on the example of model objects built in the territories of two northern regions of Russia - in the Murmansk region (Murmansk) and in the Republic of Karelia (Petrozavodsk).
Anodic oxidation of thiosulfate ions at a carbon-based electrode with deposited Au-particles
Authors: Kovaleva Svetlana , Korshunov Andrey , Aksinenko Olga
Published: April 2023

In the present work, the anodic oxidation of thiosulfate ions in neutral electrolytes at a carbon-based composite electrode with deposited submicron gold particles was studied using the direct current voltammetry method. It is shown that the oxidation process is displayed in the voltammetric curves in the form of two peaks of anodic current, the magnitude of which depends on the experimental conditions. An explanation of the most probable mechanism of the oxidation reactions of S2O32– ions at an anodically polarized gold-containing electrode has been proposed. It has been shown a possibility to monitor low concentrations of thiosulfate ions (0.1-10 μM) using a current peak at potentials E>1.0 V (vs. Ag/AgCl/1M KCl). The accuracy parameters of the analytical procedure were verified, practical applications of the analytical method have been outlined.
Compressibility of blends of diesel fuel with palm oil
Authors: Fedyanov Evgeny , Salykin Evgeny , Kurapin Alexey , Kadiata Emeri , Ilyushin Dmitry
Published: April 2023

The article presents the results of experimental studies to determine the compressibility of mixtures of diesel fuel with palm oil. To determine the compressibility of fuel mixtures in this work, we used a method based on measuring the speed of sound in the fuel in the injection pipeline. A description of a laboratory setup for measuring the speed of sound propagation in a mixed fuel is given, and the experimental procedure is outlined. The results obtained show that with an increase in the initial compression pressures and the density of fuel mixtures, which depends on the volumetric content of palm oil in them, the speed of sound increases, and the compressibility decreases. Formulas are presented that approximate the experimentally found dependences of compressibility on pressure and the proportion of palm oil in the mixed fuel. The results of the research can be used in modeling the fuel supply process of diesel engines operating on mixtures of diesel fuel and palm oil.
Determination of the optimal arrangement of engines along the wingspan
Authors: Li A.E. , Kremenchutsky V.V. , Tikhtey Yu.N. , Maysak M.V.
Published: April 2023

A modern gas turbine engine, in the layout of the designed aircraft, allows us to consider fundamentally different placement options. The contradictory influence of the type, number and location of engines on the safety and efficiency of flight leads to the need to study these tasks at the early stages of design. This article discusses an approach to determining the optimal position of engines by wingspan at the stage of preliminary design. The calculation features consist in taking into account various factors: strength, for different design cases, mass-inertial, operational-technological and others. In the course of the study, the aircraft wing power set was simulated with its subsequent calculation in the NX system. As a result of the study, the optimal arrangement of engines for a four-engine aircraft with known geometric characteristics of the wing and its shape was obtained. An approach is shown, as a result of which it is possible to determine the optimal position of the engines, both in terms of the magnitude of bending moments in the root part of the wing and moments of inertia. The same method can be used to prove or correct the already accepted position of the engines on the designed aircraft.
Quel cirque, ces virus
Authors: Serge Chasseur Alexis , Muylkens Benoît , Coupeau Damien
Published: April 2023

Les ARN circulaires (ARNcirc) font partie intégrante de la relation hôte-pathogène. Après la description de la dérégulation d’ARNcirc cellulaires lors d’infections virales, de nombreux ARNcirc d’origine virale ont été identifiés et caractérisés. Des rôles régulateurs, aussi bien du cycle cellulaire que du cycle viral, leur ont été attribués. Ils sont associés à l’oncogenèse viro-induite, à la régulation du système immunitaire et à la différenciation cellulaire. Ces boucles d’ARN, aussi archaïques que les premiers virus, réservent bien des surprises aux chercheurs tant au niveau de leurs fonctions que de leurs biogenèses !
Die Möglichkeiten der Phytotherapie bei entzündlichen
Hautkrankheiten
Authors: Wölfle Ute , Hoffmann Julia , Schempp Christoph
Published: April 2023

In den letzten Jahren wurden einige neue pflanzliche Arzneimittel,
Medizinprodukte und Hautpflegemittel für die topische Behandlung von
entzündlichen Hauterkrankungen entwickelt. Besonders gut belegt ist die
Wirksamkeit von Inhaltsstoffen aus dem Süßholz bei der
atopischen Dermatitis und von Indigo-Extrakten bei der Psoriasis. Ein neuer
vielversprechender Therapieansatz zur äußerlichen Behandlung
einer geschädigten Hautbarriere sind Bitterstoffe, die an
Bitterstoff-Rezeptoren der Haut binden und die Keratin- und Lipidsynthese der
Keratinozyten anregen. Weitere pflanzliche Wirkstoffe für die Behandlung
von Rosazea und Akne vulgaris werden ebenfalls besprochen, wie z. B.
Extrakte aus dem Grüntee, der Blutwurz oder dem Hopfen.
Perioperative Management in the Collegiate Athlete: An Integrated
Approach
Authors: Rugg Caitlin M. , Ginder Jordan H. , Bharadwaj Ananyaa , Vomer Rock , Dale Gregory A. , Ketterly Jennifer , Zarzour Hap , Amendola Annunziato , Lau Brian C.
Published: April 2023

Collegiate athletes face rigorous physical, academic, and emotional demands.
While significant attention has been paid to injury prevention among young
athletes in the past two decades, orthopedic injury rates remain high among
collegiate athletes, and a significant number will undergo surgical management
for injuries each year. In this narrative review, we describe techniques for
perioperative management of pain and stress after surgery in collegiate
athletes. In particular, we outline pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic
management of surgical pain, with a goal of minimizing opiate consumption. We
emphasize a multi-disciplinary approach to optimizing post-operative recovery in
collegiate athletes help minimize reliance on opiate pain medication.
Additionally, we recommend that institutional resources should be harnessed to
support athletes in their well-being, from a nutritional, psychological and
sleep standpoint. Critical to success in perioperative pain management is the
communication among the athletic medicine team members and with the athlete and
family to address pain and stress management and encourage timely, safe return
to play.
Use of Hypertonic Saline in Neuroanesthesia and Neurocritical Care Practice: A Narrative Review
Authors: Barik Amiya K. , Thappa Priya , Jangra Kiran , Bhagat Hemant , Kaur Kirandeep
Published: April 2023

Hypertonic saline (HTS) is a group of fluids containing sodium and chloride in a higher concentration as compared to physiological saline. The authors have conducted this review to evaluate the use of HTS in neuroanesthesia and neurocritical care. The articles for this narrative review on HTS were searched on databases like PubMed Central, EMBASE, and Google Scholar using the Medical Subject Headings keywords “Hypertonic Saline,” “Neuroanesthesia,” and “Neurocritical Care.” The review focuses on the mechanisms of HTS and its in routine clinical practice. The results of various comparative studies between HTS and mannitol and guidelines regarding the use of HTS have also been reviewed. HTS can be used to treat hyponatremia, reduce intracranial pressure, provide intraoperative relaxed brain, and aid in resuscitation during cardiogenic, neurogenic, and septic shock. Its side effects include renal toxicity in the case of hypernatremia, rebound intracranial hypertension, volume overload, dyselectrolytemia, phlebitis, local tissue damage, and osmotic demyelination syndrome in the case of rapid correction of serum sodium concentration.
MRI Staging of Anorectal Malignancy—A Reporting Dilemma: Is It Adenocarcinoma or Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
Authors: Chandramohan Anuradha , Sathyakumar Kirthi , Augustine Antony , John Reetu , Simon Betty , Issac Rijo , Masih Dipti , Karunya Jeba , Ram Thomas S. , Singh Ashish , Jesudason Mark Ranjan , Mittal Rohin
Published: April 2023

Aim Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of anorectal malignancy is often reported assuming low rectal adenocarcinoma (LRC). The biopsy may, however, reveal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Thus, the aim was to compare the imaging findings of SCC and LRC.

Methods This was a retrospective study of patients who underwent staging MRI for anorectal malignancy (<5 cm from the anal verge) for adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma between 2016 and 2021. Two radiologists blinded to biopsy reviewed MRI. Imaging findings and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values were compared between SCC and LRC.

Results We studied 137 patients (n = 60 SCC, n = 77 LRC) with a mean age of 50.4 (standard deviation: 12.4) years and tumor length of 5.6 ± 1.9 cm. SCC patients were older, and their distal tumor margin was closer to the anal verge (5.3 vs. 22 mm for LRC; p <0.001). T2 intermediate signal and diffusion restriction was seen in 97 and 98.2% of SCC and 75.3 and 77% of LRC, respectively. SCC had lower ADC values (0.910 × 10−3 mm2/s) than LRC (1.126 × 10−3 mm2/s; p < 0.001). But there was no difference in the ADC values when T2 hyperintense tumors were excluded (p = 0.132). Extramural vascular invasion (EMVI) was more frequent in LRC (35.1 vs. 16.7%; p = 0.013). A combination of distance from the anal verge of less than 11 mm, absent EMVI, and the presence of internal iliac and inguinal nodes had an area under the curve (95% confidence interval) of 0.810 (0.737–0.884).

Conclusion ADC values are unhelpful in differentiating SCC and LRC. Tumors closer to anal verge, absence of EMVI, and the presence of inguinal and internal-iliac nodes may point towards SCC.
Controlled crossover of electron transport in graphene nanoconstriction: From Coulomb blockade to electron interference
Authors: Yu Wei , Guo Xiao , Cai Yuwen , Yu Xiaotian , Liang Wenjie
Published: April 2023

The ability to control transport behaviors in nanostructure is crucial for usage as a fundamental research platform as well as a practical device. In this study, we report a gate-controlled crossover of electron transport behaviors using graphene nanoconstrictions as a platform. The observed transport properties span from Coulomb blockade-dominated single electron transmission to electron–wave interference-dominated quantum behavior. Such drastic modulation is achieved by utilizing a single back gate on a graphene nanoconstriction structure, where the size of nanostructure in the constriction and coupling strength of it to the electrodes can be tuned electrically. Our results indicate that electrostatic field by gate voltage upon the confined nanostructure defines both the size of the nanoconstriction as well as its interaction to electrodes. Increasing gate voltage raises Fermi level to cross the energy profile in the nanoconstriction, resulting in decreased energy barriers which affect the size of nanoconstriction and transmissivity of electrons. The gate-tunable nanoconstriction device can therefore become a potential platform to study quantum critical behaviors and enrich electronic and spintronic devices.
Synthesis and characterisation of single and duplex ZnO/TiO2 ceramic films on additively manufactured bimetallic material of 316L stainless steel and Ti6Al4V
Authors: Yetim T , Tekdir H , Taftalı M , Turalıoğlu K , Yetim A F
Published: April 2023

Selective laser melting (SLM), one of the Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) additive manufacturing methods, has enabled the layered production of Ti6Al4V/316L layered samples, thanks to the layer-by-layer construction. Although 316L and Ti6Al4V are used in many engineering applications, their wear performance is limited. This study aims to improve the tribological and electrochemical properties of Ti6Al4V/316L layered samples. Thus, ZnO, TiO2 monolayer, composite, and ZnO/TiO2, TiO2/ZnO multilayer ceramic films on Ti6Al4V/316L layered surface sample, were coated via the sol-gel dip-coating process. The structural, morphological, and tribological properties of ZnO-TiO2 ceramic films were analyzed via x-ray diffractometer, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and 3D profilometer. The tribological properties of these coatings were examined using a reciprocating tribo-tester, and the electrochemical properties of samples were evaluated through potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements. Structural and mechanical results indicated that ZnO and TiO2 films (monolayer, composite, and multilayer-coated) have higher surface roughness and hardness values than additively manufactured Ti6Al4V/316L layered models. Both single and multilayer ZnO and TiO2 ceramic-coated films improved the wear resistance of the Ti6Al4V/316L substrate. Also, The best tribological and corrosion resistance was acquired for the multilayer film (ZnO/TiO2) among all the coated models.
‘Near-ambient’ superconductivity found
Authors: Banks Michael
Published: April 2023

Superconductivity has been observed at temperatures up to 20 °C in a nitrogen-doped lutetium hydride, but the claims will need careful validation, as Michael Banks reports.
Women in academia migrate shorter distances than men
Authors: Hiscott Laura
Published: April 2023

Female researchers who migrate for work tend to pick nearby destinations and go to fewer countries than their male counterparts, according to a new analysis of worldwide migration patterns.
Hydrogen keeps it all together
Authors: Roberts Steve
Published: April 2023

A reply to the feature article “Home, green home” by Margaret Harris, which describes the challenges of changing the heat supply for homes and buildings so they don’t use fossil fuels anymore.
Fusion oversights
Authors: Evans John
Published: April 2023

A reply to the news and analysis article “Physicists plot laser fusion path”, which describes how the US National Ignition Facility (NIF) demonstrated ignition late last year.
More finance, please
Authors: Bradley Brian
Published: April 2023

A reply to Jon Cartwright’s feature “What goes up…”, which describes the mathematical modelling of ultra-long financial bonds.
Philosophical ding-dong
Authors: Timpson Chris , Crease Robert P , Elia Gino
Published: April 2023

A reply to an analysis by Robert P Crease and Gino Elia of the philosophical implications of the 2022 Nobel Prize for Physics, which was won by Alain Aspect, John Clauser and Anton Zeilinger for their work on the fundamentals of quantum information science.
Ask me anything: Zahra Hussaini
Authors: Commissariat Tushna
Published: April 2023

Zahra Hussaini is a senior software reliability engineer (SRE) at Waymo, an autonomous driving technology company that started as Google’s Self-Driving Car Project. Prior to Waymo, she was a Google Search SRE, a satellite imagery software engineer, and a research assistant at the National Institute of Standards and Technology. She graduated with BS degrees in physics and mathematics from Arizona State University in 2013.
Feasibility analysis of AERONET lunar AOD for nighttime particulate matter estimation
Authors: Kim Kwang Nyun , Kim Seung Hee , Park Sang Seo , Lee Yun Gon
Published: April 2023

Several studies have attempted to estimate particulate matter (PM) concentrations using aerosol optical depth (AOD), based on AOD and PM relationships. Owing to the limited availability of nighttime AOD data, PM estimation studies using AOD have focused on daytime. Recently, the Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) produced nighttime AOD, called lunar AOD, providing an opportunity to estimate nighttime PM. Nighttime AOD measurements are particularly important as they help fill gaps in our understanding of aerosol variability and its impact on the atmosphere, as there are significant variations in AOD between day and night. In this study, the relationship between lunar AOD and PM was investigated using data from AERONET station, meteorological station, and air pollution station in Seoul Metropolitan area from May 2016 to December 2019, and then PM estimation model was developed covering both daytime and nighttime using random forest machine learning techniques. We have found the differences in the importance of variables affecting the AOD-PM relationship between day and night from the random forest model. The AOD-PM relationship in the daytime was more affected by time-related variables, such as the day of the year among the variables. The new model was developed using additional lunar AOD data to estimate continuous PM concentrations. The results have shown that the model based on lunar AOD data estimated well PM10 and PM2.5 with similar performance of model using solar AOD. The results imply the possibility of seamless near-surface PM concentration data on a large scale once satellites produce nighttime AOD data.
Improved performance HEMT device with backup bulk for LNA application
Authors: Kourdi Zakarya , Four Imane , Khaouani Mohammed
Published: April 2023

This study proposes a 30 nm gate length double-gate InAlN/GaN on a 4H-SiC substrate high-electron-mobility transistor. Different electrical characteristics such as DC, AC, capacity and noise analysis were performed through TCAD device simulations. The proposed device exhibited a maximum drain current of 2.15 A mm−1, a transconductance of 1308 mS/mm, (350/610) GHz of FT/FMAX and a maximum noise figure of NFMax = 9.5 dB at 1 THz. Thus, LNA-HEMT has been designed considering the main characteristics of power with a new structure, in terms of temperature and low noise figure effect. Adopting the backup bulk in the optimization procedure, the proposed device obtained an outstanding performance with appropriate low power consumption for the GEO satellite application.
Life cycle of Melittobia acasta (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) using Megachile rotundata (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae) as a host
Authors: Anderson Alan R , Ramirez Ricardo A , Creech J Earl , Pitts-Singer Theresa L
Published: April 2023

Megachile rotundata F. is the primary commercial pollinator for alfalfa seed production in North America. Managed M. rotundata populations are susceptible to several mortality factors including attack by parasitoids. One such parasitoid, Melittobia acasta Walker, is a multivoltine wasp whose infestations can decimate bee stocks. Details of M. acasta life history using M. rotundata as a host are needed to develop control strategies. Our objectives were (i) to describe the M. acasta life cycle using M. rotundata prepupae as hosts and (ii) to determine the M. acasta developmental base temperature and propose a degree-day model. First, 150–300 M. acasta adults were introduced to 60 M. rotundata prepupae (10–20 wasp females/4 bee prepupae) upon which they oviposited. Progeny development (at 30 °C) was monitored through adulthood. We identified 12 distinct phases of the M. acasta life cycle that were observed among samples over an average of 19.5 days. Second, vials each containing a M. rotundata prepupa with M. acasta eggs were positioned across a temperature gradient bar (2 vials per temperature). In repeated trials, wasp development was tracked from egg to adult where a mean development time for 30 °C was found to be 13 days. A linear regression analysis determined the lower developmental temperature threshold to be 8.55 °C. Application of this base temperature in a degree-day model revealed an average of 305.8-degree-day accumulation from egg to adult. These results provide a framework to assist bee managers in devising M. acasta control strategies and timing their implementation.
Lessons learned from patient outcomes when lowering hemoglobin transfusion thresholds during COVID-19 blood shortages
Authors: Qiao Jesse , Ray Bradford , Singh Vishwajeet , Geno Aaron , Abadie Jude
Published: April 2023

Objectives

This study examines whether patient outcomes were affected when the hemoglobin (Hb) transfusion threshold was lowered by 1 g/dL during COVID-19–related blood shortages.

Methods

Outcomes of lowered Hb thresholds (from <7 to <6 g/dL) were defined by 14-month intervals in 2 patient groups (prepandemic [January 2019-February 2020] and pandemic [April 2020-May 2021]). We evaluated patient admissions, pretransfusion (if transfused) or nadir admission (if not transfused) Hb levels between 5.0 and 8.0 g/dL, and total red blood cell (RBC) transfusions during admission (if transfused). Baseline variables and outcomes were selected from electronic health records. Primary COVID-19–related admissions were excluded. Regression analysis was conducted to determine outcomes.

Results

Those in the prepandemic group (1976) and pandemic group (1547) were transfused. Fewer RBCs (2186, vs 3337) were used in the prepandemic group than in the pandemic group, respectively. Those in the prepandemic group had significantly higher rates of hypertension and diabetes as well as more smokers. Significant differences were observed when comparing the number of procedures and incidence of sepsis between the patient groups. Similar patterns were observed for the not transfused and transfused subgroups.

Conclusions

Patient outcomes were not affected after implementing lower Hb pretransfusion thresholds. Although confounding factors were mitigated, some may have been associated with procedures or sepsis. Proactive patient blood management strategies during COVID-19–related blood shortages may include adopting lower Hb thresholds.
Validation of a rapid HLA-DQA1*05 pharmacogenomics assay to identify at-risk resistance to anti–tumor necrosis factor therapy among patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: DelBaugh Regina M , Cook Leanne J , Siegel Corey A , Tsongalis Gregory J , Khan Wahab A
Published: April 2023

Objectives

The HLA-DQA1*05 variant (rs2097432) is associated with increased risk of immunogenicity to tumor necrosis factor antagonists, with subsequent resistance to therapy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Identification of these patients would optimize personalized therapeutic selection.

Methods

Genomic DNA was extracted from 80 deidentified samples in an unselected patient population with an unknown rs2097432 genotype. Split sample analysis was performed using a reference laboratory. Primer probes for a TaqMan quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay (Thermo Fisher Scientific) were custom designed. Synthesized genomic-block fragments were used as controls. All qPCR reactions were performed using a TaqMan GTXpress Master Mix (Thermo Fisher Scientific) on the Applied Biosystems 7500 system under fast cycling conditions.

Results

Of 80 samples, 50% were wild-type reference genotypes, 22.5% were heterozygous, and 27.5% were homozygous variant calls, comparable to population data. Split analysis samples between 2 independent laboratories were 100% concordant. The detection limit tested across genomic-block controls processed in duplicate was reproducible on sample input from 10 ng titrated down to 1.25 ng across 2 independent runs. Further, analytical specificity assessed with previous wild-type reference and homozygous variant DNA spiked into genomic-block controls produced appropriate heterozygous genotypes.

Conclusions

Here we present validation of a lab-developed test for a rapid HLA-DQA1*05 (rs2097432) pharmacogenomics assay targeting a hotspot identified by genome-wide association studies. Targeted genotyping employed here will allow for expeditious personalized therapeutic selection.
Trends and Characteristics of Blood Pressure Prescription Fills Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the United States
Authors: Yang Peter K , Park SoYoun , Jackson Sandra L , Attipoe-Dorcoo Sharon , Gray Elizabeth , Ritchey Matthew D , Sperling Laurence S
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted healthcare in the United States and raised concerns about certain antihypertensives, and may have impacted both prescribing practices and access to blood pressure (BP) medications.

METHODS

We assessed trends in BP prescription fills before and during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, using cross-sectional data for BP fills and tablets in the IQVIA (IMS Health) National Prescription Audit® database. Drugs filled via retail (92% coverage), mail-order (78% coverage), and long-term care (72% coverage) channels from January 2018 through December 2020 were included. Data were projected nationally and by state.

RESULTS

Between 2.9 and 3.4 billion BP tablets were dispensed monthly until February 2020, increasing sharply to 3.8 billion in March 2020 and declining to 3.5 billion in April, then increasing at 3-month intervals until December 2020. The number of tablets per fill increased slightly over time, with the largest increase (from 66.7 to 68.6) during February–March, 2020. Tablets were dispensed through retail channels (99.7 billion), mail-order (14.7 billion), and long-term care (5.3 billion). Rates of patients initiating new medications decreased during 2020 compared to prior years. Fills did not vary significantly by drug class.

CONCLUSIONS

A sharp increase in BP fills occurred with COVID-19 emergence, suggesting patients may have secured medications in preparation for potential access limitations. A decrease in new fills, indicating decreased initiation and/or modification of treatment regimens, suggests need for efforts to re-engage patients in the healthcare system and provide alternative ways to obtain medication refills and adjustments.
Pocket to concavity: a tool for the refinement of protein–ligand binding site shape from alpha spheres
Authors: Kudo Genki , Hirao Takumi , Yoshino Ryunosuke , Shigeta Yasuteru , Hirokawa Takatsugu
Published: April 2023

Understanding the binding site of the target protein is essential for rational drug design. Pocket detection software predicts the ligand binding site of the target protein; however, the predicted protein pockets are often excessively estimated in comparison with the actual volume of the bound ligands. This study proposes a refinement tool for the pockets predicted by an alpha sphere-based approach, Pocket to Concavity (P2C). P2C is divided into two modes: Ligand-Free (LF) and Ligand-Bound (LB) modes. The LF mode provides the shape of the deep and druggable concavity where the core scaffold can bind. The LB mode searches the deep concavity around the bound ligand. Thus, P2C is useful for identifying and designing desirable compounds in Structure-Based Drug Design (SBDD).

Availability and implementation

Pocket to Concavity is freely available at https://github.com/genki-kudo/Pocket-to-Concavity. This tool is implemented in Python3 and Fpocket2.
ICAT: a novel algorithm to robustly identify cell states following perturbations in single-cell transcriptomes
Authors: Hawkins Dakota Y , Zuch Daniel T , Huth James , Rodriguez-Sastre Nahomie , McCutcheon Kelley R , Glick Abigail , Lion Alexandra T , Thomas Christopher F , Descoteaux Abigail E , Johnson William Evan , Bradham Cynthia A
Published: April 2023

Motivation

The detection of distinct cellular identities is central to the analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) experiments. However, in perturbation experiments, current methods typically fail to correctly match cell states between conditions or erroneously remove population substructure. Here, we present the novel, unsupervised algorithm Identify Cell states Across Treatments (ICAT) that employs self-supervised feature weighting and control-guided clustering to accurately resolve cell states across heterogeneous conditions.

Results

Using simulated and real datasets, we show ICAT is superior in identifying and resolving cell states compared with current integration workflows. While requiring no a priori knowledge of extant cell states or discriminatory marker genes, ICAT is robust to low signal strength, high perturbation severity, and disparate cell type proportions. We empirically validate ICAT in a developmental model and find that only ICAT identifies a perturbation-unique cellular response. Taken together, our results demonstrate that ICAT offers a significant improvement in defining cellular responses to perturbation in scRNA-seq data.

Availability and implementation

https://github.com/BradhamLab/icat.
Brain microvascular disease and functional network connectivity—a call for a stage-based approach
Authors: Schreiber Stefanie , Arndt Philipp , Meuth Sven G , Dityatev Alexander , Mattern Hendrik
Published: April 2023

This scientific commentary refers to ‘Functional connectivity in older adults—the effect of cerebral small vessel disease’ by Drenth et al. (https://doi.org/10.1093/braincomms/fcad126).
Development and function of FOXP3+ regulators of immune responses
Authors: Golzari-Sorkheh Mahdieh , Zúñiga-Pflücker Juan Carlos
Published: April 2023

The Forkhead Box P3 (FOXP3) protein is an essential transcription factor for the development and function of regulatory T cells (Tregs), involved in the maintenance of immunological tolerance. Although extensive research over the last decade has investigated the critical role of FOXP3+ cells in preserving immune homeostasis, our understanding of their specific functions remains limited. Therefore, unveiling the molecular mechanisms underpinning the up- and downstream transcriptional regulation of and by FOXP3 is crucial for developing Treg-targeted therapeutics. Dysfunctions in FOXP3+ Tregs have also been found to be inherent drivers of autoimmune disorders and have been shown to exhibit multifaceted functions in the context of cancer. Recent research suggests that these cells may also be involved in tissue-specific repair and regeneration. Herein, we summarize current understanding of the thymic-transcriptional regulatory landscape of FOXP3+ Tregs, their epigenetic modulators, and associated signaling pathways. Finally, we highlight the contributions of FOXP3 on the functional development of Tregs and reflect on the clinical implications in the context of pathological and physiological immune responses.
Sodium polystyrene is unsafe and should not be prescribed for the treatment of hyperkalaemia: primum non nocere!
Authors: Rossignol Patrick , Pitt Bertram
Published: April 2023

‘Old-generation’ potassium (K) binders [i.e. sodium (SPS) and calcium polystyrene sulfonate] are widely used, but with substantial heterogeneity across countries to treat hyperkalaemia (HK). However, there are no randomized data to support their chronic use to manage HK, nor have they been shown to have a renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitor (RAASi)-enabling effect. These compounds have poor tolerability and an unpredictable onset of action and magnitude of K lowering. Furthermore, SPS may induce fluid overload, owing to the fact that it exchanges K for sodium. Its use has also been associated with colonic necrosis, as emphasized by a black box warning from the US Food and Drug Administration. In contrast, two new K binders, patiromer and sodium zirconium cyclosilicate, have been shown to be safe and well tolerated for chronic management of HK, thereby enabling RAASi optimization, as acknowledged by the latest international cardiorenal guidelines. In view of the lack of reliable evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of the old-generation K binders compared with the placebo-controlled randomized and real-word evidence demonstrating the safety, efficacy and RAASi-enabling effect of the new K binders, clinicians should now use these new K binders to treat HK (primum non nocere!).
Integrative analysis of the association between circadian rhythm and lupus nephritis
Authors: Jin Meiling , Teng Fei , Cao Baoping , Sun Qianmei , Li Diangeng
Published: April 2023

Background

Lupus nephritis (LN) is an autoimmune nephropathy associated with systemic lupus erythematosus. Circadian rhythms are involved in the development of several diseases, especially inflammation-related diseases, but their relationship with LN is unclear.

Methods

This was an integrative bioinformatics study. The expression profile from glomeruli, tubular interstitium and renal whole tissue samples was used to assess the expression levels and relevance of circadian rhythm–related genes. To screen for circadian rhythm–related signatures, we employed the LASSO and SVM-RFE algorithms. A consensus clustering algorithm was used to classify LN patients into two circadian rhythm patterns (cluster A and cluster B). We made immune cell infiltration analysis. We used the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) algorithm to identify cluster-specific differentially expressed genes. Nephroseq data were used to observe the relationship between genes and renal function.

Results

We found more significant differences in circadian rhythm–related gene expression in LN glomeruli compared with tubulointerstitial and whole-kidney tissues. We established a circadian rhythm–related signature consisting of eight genes that can easily distinguish LN from healthy individuals. Patients in cluster A were associated with B-cell-dominated immunity, whereas patients in cluster B were associated with T-cell-dominated immunity. As most of the patients with proliferative LN combined with membranous LN belonged to cluster B, patients in cluster B may have more severe renal pathology compared with patients in cluster A. Fifteen circadian rhythm–related genes associated with LN and LN typing were screened using the WGCNA algorithm, with COL1A2 and DOCK2 associated with renal prognosis.

Conclusions

This study found that circadian rhythms are associated with the occurrence of LN, providing new ideas for the development of new LN treatment options from the perspective of circadian rhythms.
Associations between eGFR and albuminuria with right ventricular measures: the MESA-Right Ventricle study
Authors: Husain-Syed Faeq , DiFrancesco Matthew F , Deo Rajat , Barr R Graham , Scialla Julia J , Bluemke David A , Kronmal Richard A , Lima Joao A C , Praestgaard Amy , Tracy Russell P , Shlipak Michael , Kawut Steven M , Kim John S
Published: April 2023

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with an increased risk of pulmonary hypertension, which may lead to right ventricular (RV) pressure overload and RV dysfunction. However, the presence of subclinical changes in RV structure or function in early CKD and the influence of these changes on mortality are not well studied. We hypothesized that early CKD, as indicated by elevated albuminuria or mild reductions in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), is associated with greater RV dilation and RV mass.

Methods

We included 4063 participants (age 45–84 years) without baseline clinical cardiovascular disease from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. The associations of baseline creatinine–cystatin C-based eGFR and albuminuria with cardiac magnetic resonance–derived RV measures (2000–02) were examined cross-sectionally with linear regression models. Cox regression models were used to examine whether RV parameters modified the associations of eGFR and albuminuria with all-cause mortality.

Results

Participants with reductions in eGFR primarily within the 60–89 mL/min/1.73 m2 category had smaller RV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes and stroke volume (all adjusted P-trends <.001) than those with eGFR ≥90 mL/min/1.73 m2, an association that was predominantly seen in participants with albuminuria below 30 mg/g creatinine. Albuminuria was more strongly associated with death among those with lower RV volumes (P-values for interaction <.03).

Conclusions

Among community-dwelling adults, reductions in eGFR primarily within the normal range were associated with smaller RV volumes and the association of albuminuria with worse survival was stronger among those with smaller RV volumes. Further studies are needed to elucidate the underlying mechanistic pathways that link kidney measures and RV morphology.
Revocable Public Key Encryption with Equality Test without Pairing in Cloud Storage
Authors: Yang Tian , Ma Sha , Du Jiaojiao , Jiang Chengyu , Huang Qiong
Published: April 2023

Public key encryption with equality test (PKEET) plays an important role in the cloud storage. It allows a third party to test whether two ciphertexts contain the same message without decryption. Since the third party is not fully trusted, it is sometimes necessary to prevent the third party from testing the ciphertexts all the time. To this end, we propose the notion of revocable public key encryption with equality test (R-PKEET). We give the construction of R-PKEET in the random oracle model, which employs time key to update trapdoor and partial ciphertexts. In details, our scheme enables a user to revoke the third party’s test right by sending a time key to the cloud server, which is responsible for updating partial ciphertexts using the time key. Compared with related works, our scheme achieves both lightweight revocation and lower computational complexity by using Shamir’s secret sharing and Lagrange interpolating polynomial.
2-Layer k-Planar Graphs Density, Crossing Lemma, Relationships And Pathwidth
Authors: Angelini Patrizio , Da Lozzo Giordano , Förster Henry , Schneck Thomas
Published: April 2023

The $2$-layer drawing model is a well-established paradigm to visualize bipartite graphs where vertices of the two parts lie on two horizontal lines and edges lie between these lines. Several beyond-planar graph classes have been studied under this model. Surprisingly, however, the fundamental class of $k$-planar graphs has been considered only for $k=1$ in this context. We provide several contributions that address this gap in the literature.

First, we show tight density bounds for the classes of $2$-layer $k$-planar graphs with $k\in \{2,3,4,5\}$. Based on these results, we provide a Crossing Lemma for $2$-layer $k$-planar graphs, which then implies a general density bound for $2$-layer $k$-planar graphs. We prove this bound to be almost optimal with a corresponding lower bound construction. Finally, we study relationships between $k$-planarity and $h$-quasiplanarity in the $2$-layer model and show that $2$-layer $k$-planar graphs have pathwidth at most $k+1$ while there are also $2$-layer $k$-planar graphs with pathwidth at least $(k+3)/2$.
First-in-man transradial percutaneous closure of ventricular septal defect with an Amplatzer Duct Occluder IΙ in an adult patient: a case report
Authors: Samaras Athanasios , Papadopoulos Konstantinos , Giannakoulas George , Tzikas Apostolos
Published: April 2023

Background

Transcatheter closure of perimembranous ventricular septal defect (VSD) is a promising alternative to surgical closure but has been associated with conduction disorders. Vascular access via multiple large vessels is associated with procedure-related complications, undermining the benefit of percutaneous approaches. In this case, we present the first-in-man transcatheter closure of a perimembranous VSD with an Amplatzer Duct Occluder IΙ in an adult patient via a single transradial artery access.

Case summary

A 62-year-old female was admitted to the hospital due to gradually worsening fatigue and shortness of breath on exertion. Transoesophageal echocardiogram (TOE) revealed a VSD size of 4–6 mm and a left ventricular ampulla size of 12 mm. A percutaneous VSD closure with the Amplatzer Duct Occluder II was decided. The angiography and TOE showed successful device placement and excellent procedural results. The patient was discharged home the next day after the procedure. The patient did not report any post-procedural complications during the 8-month follow-up. Echocardiographic assessment showed a gradual decrease in left ventricular dimensions.

Discussion

Transcatheter closure of perimembranous VSD is a promising alternative to surgical closure, but it is not free of complications. Traditional VSD occluders rely on multivessel access and complex formation of arteriovenous loops. In this case, we report the feasibility of perimembranous VSD closure with an Amplatzer Duct Occluder IΙ via a single radial artery access in an adult patient. This approach is a much simpler technique with several potential advantages and should be considered in selected adult patients and in similar clinical scenarios.
Decolonization as pedagogy: a praxis of ‘becoming’ in ELT
Authors: Canagarajah Suresh
Published: April 2023

This introduction to the special issue on ‘Decolonizing ELT’ defines pedagogy as expanding beyond the classroom and knowledge concerns to accommodate embodied affective, social, and cultural learning that draws from and transforms environmental and geopolitical spaces. It defines pedagogy as a ‘praxis’, involving the reflexivity of action, reflection, and relearning, thus challenging the condescending view of ‘practice’ as secondary to research, policy, and scholarship. This perspective enhances the political stakes in pedagogy by contesting the micro/macro binary that relegates pedagogic resistance to ineffectual local changes. Reviewing constructs from Southern epistemologies, such as non-duality, relationality, becoming, coexistence, ethical values, and non-representational dispositions, this introduction outlines a decolonial ELT. A decolonial pedagogy focuses on developing the ethical, relational, and critical dispositions that will help students negotiate very diverse and unpredictable communicative contexts for meaningful and inclusive communication, drawing from all the semiotic resources in the environment. Rather than ‘transferable’ norms and rules, it focuses on ‘adaptive’ dispositions that help negotiate unpredictable communicative interactions.
On the right track? Railways and population dynamics in Spain, 1860–1930
Authors: Esteban-Oliver Guillermo
Published: April 2023

This article explores how 19th century railways shaped population dynamics in Spain. Results showed that the municipalities closest to stations experienced significantly greater population growth. However, this effect was heterogeneous over time and depended on the territorial specificities and municipal features of the areas traversed. It was greatest in densely populated and industrializing areas, and in the valleys and the coast, although it also remained relevant in less dynamic contexts. These findings suggest that railways likely stimulated factor mobility and economies of agglomeration. However, this technology also reinforced existing hierarchies thus exacerbating an unequal distribution of the population in space.