bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In-situ experimental investigations of the morphological characteristics of plumes and chimneys formed during the directional solidification of a binary alloy
Authors: Kumar Alok , Kumar Arvind
Published: March 2023

The defects such as freckles formed during the directional solidification of binary alloys severely affect the performance of cast products. The phenomenon of freckle formation is strongly influenced by the convective flows generated during solidification. The rejection of solute during the solidification at the solid/liquid interface induces the concentration gradients in the liquid. These concentration gradients in combination with existing temperature gradients, may induce buoyancy-driven convection in the mushy zone (plumes) and the parent liquid region (fingers). As the mushy zone evolves, small chimneys are formed, which leads to the formation of discrete plumes of interdendritic liquid. These plumes have a very complex flow structure which leads to the structural and compositional heterogeneities in the final cast product. The current study is an effort to investigate the morphological characteristics of plumes and chimneys formed during the directional alloy solidification. For this, controlled solidification experiments in a bottom-cooled rectangular cavity with an analogue transparent aqua ammonia system (NH4Cl + 74 wt% H2O) are performed. Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), High Speed (HS) imaging and thermocouples temperature measurement techniques are used for real-time measurement of flow field, solidified and mushy zone dynamics and local temperature during the course of solidification. The dynamical nature of plumes is captured and the morphology of chimneys (shape, size, spacings, etc.) and plumes (velocity magnitude, shape, size, etc.) are quantified. The phase-locking with 180° phase difference due to the coupling between nearby plumes is observed. Also, the evolution of double-diffusive layers (DDLs) is captured and the critical value of thermal Rayleigh number for the onset of DDLs is estimated.
Forecasting the steelmaking and casting of a medium manganese steel
Authors: Santillana B. , Rana R. , Burghardt A.
Published: March 2023

The steelmaking and casting of medium Mn steels brings some challenges in the production route because of their high alloying content. In this paper, the evaluation of the casting processes for these steel chemistries is assessed with a set of models and laboratory-scale tests, in order to find possible casting conditions. Results evaluation from this study pointed out to the regular conventional slab casting and hot rolling route, so that it can be produced through a conventional production line.
Effective evaluation of permeability for interdendritic fluid flow using adaptive mesh refinement: Phase-field lattice Boltzmann study
Authors: Mitsuyama Y , Sakane S , Takaki T
Published: March 2023

An effective permeability prediction method was developed by applying an adaptive mesh refinement (AMR) scheme to the lattice Boltzmann (LB) simulations to compute interdendritic liquid flow. The developed method can automatically create adaptive meshes for LB simulations based on dendrite morphologies obtained by phase-field (PF) simulations. The AMR scheme drastically reduces the number of grid points and accurately computes the liquid flow around dendrites. We found that the reduction rate of the number of meshes was remarkable when using coarser meshes compared to those used in the PF simulation. This method will enable the systematic evaluation of the permeability for liquid flow in various dendritic structures.
Data assimilation for dendritic solidification with melt convection: phase-field lattice Boltzmann study
Authors: Yamamura Ayano , Sakane Shinji , Ohno Munekazu , Yasuda Hideyuki , Takaki Tomohiro
Published: March 2023

Time-resolved in-situ X-ray tomography and high-performance phase-field simulations are state-of-the-art approaches to clarifying dendrite solidification. However, major issues persist, such as the insufficiency of spatiotemporal resolution in experiments and lack of material properties in simulations. To overcome these issues, in this study, we developed a data assimilation system using an ensemble Kalman filter based on the phase-field lattice Boltzmann method as a simulation model for the dendrite solidification of binary alloys with liquid flow. The validity of the developed system was confirmed through twin experiments to infer the kinematic viscosity in a two-dimensional dendrite growth problem with forced convection.
2D multi-phase-field lattice Boltzmann simulations of semi-solid shear deformation
Authors: Yamanaka N , Sakane S , Takaki T
Published: March 2023

The deformation of solid–liquid coexistence regions strongly affects the formation of solidification defects in casting applications. Thus, understanding the mechanism of semi-solid deformation is crucial. This study used the multi-phase-field lattice Boltzmann model (MPF-LBM), which can simulate polycrystalline solidification with solid motion and liquid flow, to simulate two-dimensional semi-solid shear deformation with various grain shapes and solid fractions. It was concluded that the MPF-LBM could express the characteristic behaviors of semi-solid deformation, such as the Reynolds’ dilatancy and shear band, depending on the grain shape and solid fraction.
Macrosegregation maps in industrial continuous casting low alloyed steel ingots
Authors: Gennesson M , Evrard S , Amhoud Y
Published: March 2023

Macrosegregation is a critical defect in industrial steel ingots in both conventional ingot castings and continuous castings. Improvements in terms of macrosegregation require to be able to precisely quantify the intensity and the repartition of macrosegregation along the cast product. However, traditional macrosegregation measurements are a tedious and time consuming process. In this study, three different product lengths of the same caster strand were taken during the same heat. Each sample was cut along the longitudinal central plane of the cast product. One additional transverse section was also cut for one of the sample. Drilling with constant spacing was performed on 50% of the area of longitudinal sections and 25% of the transverse section. Carbon and sulfur contents were then measured on each drilled location. Plotting methodologies to produce chemical maps are carefully described regarding the different parameters such as color map choices and normalization methods. Data for all the characterized sections is compared with each other and the differences are commented with the help of the process parameters.
A self-actuated electrocaloric polymer heat pump design exploiting the synergy of electrocaloric effect and electrostriction
Authors: Chen Xin , Zhu Wenyi , Rattner Alexander S , Zhang Q M
Published: March 2023

Caloric cooling is an attractive family of technologies owing to their environmental friendliness and potential for higher efficiency than present refrigeration systems. Cooling devices based on the electrocaloric (EC) effect specifically have the added benefit of being easily miniaturized, enabling applications in electronic thermal management, wearables and localized cooling. A challenge in prior compact EC cooling devices has been the need for a separate actuation mechanism to cyclically contact the EC material with hot and cold interfaces. Here, we propose a self-actuated EC polymer heat pump, exploiting recent discoveries of giant EC and electromechanical responses under low electric fields in P(VDF-TrFE-CFE-FA) (VDF: vinylidene fluoride, TrFE: trifluoroethylene, CFE: chlorofluoroethylene, FA: fluorinated alkynes) relaxor tetrapolymers. We show that the transverse electroactuation of P(VDF-TrFE-CFE-FA) relaxor tetrapolymer films can be tailored over a broad range, from strong actuation to weak actuation, without affecting the high EC response. Using this principle, a unimorph actuator was constructed from two EC tetrapolymer layers with large differences in electroactuation. This device autonomously achieves a large displacement between the heating and cooling cycles of the EC films, which could be used to switch thermal contact between hot and cold interfaces. This concept could thus enable highly efficient and compact EC heat pumps.
Dynamic Brillouin cooling for continuous optomechanical systems
Authors: Zhu Changlong , Stiller Birgit
Published: March 2023

Up until now, ground state cooling using optomechanical interaction is realized in the regime where optical dissipation is higher than mechanical dissipation. Here, we demonstrate that optomechanical ground state cooling in a continuous optomechanical system is possible by using backward Brillouin scattering while mechanical dissipation exceeds optical dissipation which is the common case in optical waveguides. The cooling is achieved in an anti-Stokes backward Brillouin process by modulating the intensity of the optomechanical coupling via a pulsed pump to suppress heating processes in the strong coupling regime. With such dynamic modulation, a significant cooling factor can be achieved, which can be several orders of magnitude lower than for the steady-state case. This modulation scheme can also be applied to Brillouin cooling generated by forward intermodal Brillouin scattering.
‘Being able to work has kept our life fairly constant:’ reconciling social practice models to assess the impact of (infra)structural inequities on household wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ahamed Sonya , Schelly Chelsea , Floress Kristin , Lytle William , Caggiano Holly , Cuite Cara L. , Wallace Charles , Cook Ryan , Jarvis Rebekah , Shwom Rachael , Watkins David
Published: March 2023

Social practice theory offers a multidisciplinary perspective on the relationship between infrastructure and wellbeing. One prominent model in practice theory frames systems of provision as the rules, resources, and structures that enable the organization of social practices, encompassing both material and immaterial aspects of infrastructures. A second well-known model frames social practices in terms of their constituent elements: meanings, materials, and competences. Reconciling these two models, we argue that household capacity to respond to shifting systems of provision to maintain wellbeing is profoundly tied to the dynamics of privilege and inequity. To examine these dynamics, we propose a new analytical tool utilizing the Bourdieuian conceptualization of forms of capital, deepening the ability of social practice theory to address structural inequities by re-examining the question of who is able to access specific infrastructures. To illustrate this approach, we examine how households adapted to shifting systems of provision during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using data from 183 households in the Midwestern United States, we apply this tool to analyze adaptations to disruptions of multiple systems of provision, including work, school, food, and health, from February 2020 to August 2021. We highlight how household wellbeing during the pandemic has been impacted by forms of capital available to specific households, even as new social practices surrounding COVID-19 prevention became increasingly politicized. This research provides insight into both acute challenges and resilient social practices involving household consumption, indicating a need for policies that can address structural inequities across multiple systems of provision.
Sustainability analysis of overhead cable line powered freight trucks: a life cycle impact and techno-economic assessment toward transport electrification
Authors: Ramshankar Arjun Thangaraj , Desai Aditya Girish , De La Villarmois Julien Artur , Bozeman III Joe Frank
Published: March 2023

We must move toward electrification of the transportation sector to help mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change. Carbon emission reduction in long-haul freight transport should be developed and administered given it accounts for 22% of transportation related emissions worldwide. Although electrified transport can make tail-pipe vehicle carbon emissions negligible, it does not mean that the entire system that supports electrified transport is carbon-neutral. We address this latter point in the present study by conducting a cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment of long-haul electric trucks that are powered by overhead cable lines (OCL). The environmental impacts were compared with those of battery electric vehicle trucks (BEV), and conventional diesel-powered trucks. The techno-economic analysis of long-haul freight OCL technology was conducted based on data from pilot-scale studies in Germany. The feasibility of implementing this technology in other countries was examined by comparing environmental impacts across respective electricity mixes. Results show that the environmental and economic impacts of OCL technology depends on the adoption percent. After analyzing different adoption rate scenarios, OCL adoption was found to be economically and environmentally beneficial at the 10% adoption rate or higher. We also found that use phase electricity accounts for over 83% of the net greenhouse gas emissions, thereby making the electricity mix powering this technology a determining factor for implementation around the world. Across their life cycles, the carbon footprint of both OCL and BEV was 2.5 times lesser than that of the conventional truck. Other findings reveal adaptable methods, a unique environmental-to-economic ratio measure, and equity considerations that can be leveraged for immediate decision-making activities and future studies alike.
Proving infinite index for a subgroup of matrices
Authors: Hulpke Alexander
Published: March 2023

We show how tools from computational group theory can be used to prove that a subgroup of matrices has infinite index.
Compact components of planar surface group representations
Authors: Goldman William
Published: March 2023

Recently Deroin, Tholozan and Toulisse found connected components of relative character varieties of surface group representations in a Hermitian Lie group

G
G

with remarkable properties. For example, although the Lie groups are never compact, these components are compact. In this way they behave more like relative character varieties for compact Lie groups. (A relative character variety comprises equivalence classes of homomorphisms of the fundamental group of a surface

S
S

, where the holonomy around each boundary component of

S
S

is constrained to a fixed conjugacy class in

G
G

.)

The first examples were found by Robert Benedetto and myself in an REU in summer 1992. Here

S
S

is the 4-holed sphere and

G
=

S
L

(

2
,

R

)

G = {\mathsf {SL}}({2,\mathbb {R}})

. Although computer visualization played an important role in the discovery of these unexpected compact components, computation was invisible in the final proof, and its subsequent extensions.
The diffeomorphism group of the solid closed torus and Hochschild homology
Authors: Müller Lukas , Woike Lukas
Published: March 2023

We prove that for a self-injective ribbon Grothendieck-Verdier category

C

\mathcal {C}

in the sense of Boyarchenko-Drinfeld the cyclic action on the Hochschild complex of

C

\mathcal {C}

extends to an action of the diffeomorphism group of the solid closed torus

S

1

×

D

2

\mathbb {S}^1 \times \mathbb {D}^2

.
BAG6 supports stress fiber formation by preventing the ubiquitin-mediated degradation of RhoA
Authors: Miyauchi Maho , Matsumura Reina , Kawahara Hiroyuki
Published: March 2023

We identified BAG6 as the first factor need to protect RhoA from ubiquitination. BAG6 deficiency enhanced the association between Cullin-3 (CUL3) and RhoA, promoted its polyubiquitination, and stimulated the degradation of RhoA, leading to the abrogation of F-actin polymerization. These findings reveal a crucial role for BAG6 in stress fiber formations.
Systematic analysis of microtubule plus-end networks defines EB-cargo complexes critical for mitosis in budding yeast
Authors: Kornakov Nikolay , Westermann Stefan
Published: March 2023

Comprehensive analysis of EB-dependent microtubule plus-end networks in budding yeast defines a Bim1-Bik1-Cik1-Kar3 complex that acts during metaphase spindle assembly and supports tension establishment and sister chromatid biorientation.
Aesthetic Testimony and Aesthetic Authenticity
Authors: Bräuer Felix
Published: March 2023

Relying on aesthetic testimony seems problematic. For instance, it seems problematic for me to simply believe or assert that The Velvet Underground's debut album The Velvet Underground and Nico (1964) is amazing solely because you have told me so, even though I know you to be an honest and competent music critic. But why? After all, there do not seem to be similar reservations regarding testimony from many other domains. In this paper, I will argue that relying on aesthetic testimony seems problematic because we are attached to an ideal of aesthetic authenticity and feel that living up to this ideal is anathema to simply relying on aesthetic testimony.
Labiaplasty in Adolescents: Indications and Treatment Protocol
Authors: Qin Feng , Xia Zenan , Yang Yuyan , Kang Yuanbo , Zhang Mingzi , Shan Mengjie , Zhu Lin , Long Xiao
Published: March 2023

Background

Adolescents constitute a unique group of labia minora hypertrophy patients, but the necessity and benefits of labiaplasty for adolescents remain controversial.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to summarize the surgical indications, the details of the treatment procedure, postoperative complications, and therapeutic outcomes of labiaplasty in the adolescent population.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed of adolescent patients aged <18 years old who underwent labiaplasty between January 2016 and May 2022. Patient characteristics, surgical method, concomitant procedures, procedure side, operative time, complications, and follow-up data were recorded.

Results

A total of 12 patients aged <18 years were included in this study. All procedures were performed for functional reasons. The mean [standard deviation] operative time was 61.75 [20.77] minutes (range, 38-114 minutes). Unilateral labia minora hematoma within 24 hours occurred in 2 of the 12 patients (16.7%) and surgical evacuations were performed immediately. All patients were followed up electronically at 42.33 [16.88] months (range, 14-67 months). Notably, 83.33% (10/12) of patients reported being very satisfied, and 16.67% (2/12) of patients were satisfied. There was no patient dissatisfaction. Preoperative discomfort was completely resolved in 9 patients (75.00%) and significantly improved in 3 patients (25.00%). Furthermore, no patients indicated that symptoms were not improved or made worse.

Conclusions

In the adolescent population, severe hypertrophy of the labia minora and the clitoral hood will cause discomfort, affecting the quality of life and mental health. Therefore, labiaplasty is a safe and effective procedure in adolescents to improve genital appearance and quality of life.

Level of Evidence: 4
Safety and Efficacy of Renuvion Helium Plasma to Improve the Appearance of Loose Skin in the Neck and Submental Region
Authors: Ruff Paul G , Bharti Gaurav , Hunstad Joseph , Kortesis Bill , DiBernardo Barry , Gentile Richard , Cohen Steven , Martinez Allison , Shridharani Sachin M
Published: March 2023

Background

Minimally invasive procedures that deliver thermal energy to subcutaneous tissue offer a solution when deciding between excisional and noninvasive options to address face and neck aging-related changes. A minimally invasive helium plasma device, Renuvion, was first utilized for subdermal tissue heating to reduce skin laxity under an FDA general clearance for cutting, coagulation, and ablation of soft tissue.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of the helium plasma device for improving the appearance of loose skin in the neck and submental region.

Methods

Patients undergoing the procedure with the helium plasma device in the neck and submentum were studied. They were seen for 6 months following the procedure. The primary effectiveness endpoint for improvement in lax skin in the treatment area was determined by 2 of 3 blinded photographic reviewers. The primary safety endpoint was the level of pain after treatment.

Results

The primary effectiveness endpoint was met; 82.5% demonstrated improvement at Day 180. The primary safety endpoint was met; 96.9% of patients experienced no pain to moderate pain to Day 7. There were no serious adverse events reported related to the study device or procedure.

Conclusions

The data demonstrate benefit to patients by improvement of the appearance of lax skin in the neck and submental region. Outcomes resulted in US Food and Drug Administration 510(k) clearance in July 2022, expanding indications for the device to include subcutaneous dermatological and aesthetic procedures to improve the appearance of loose skin in the neck and submental region.
Predicting phenotypes from novel genomic markers using deep learning
Authors: Sehrawat Shivani , Najafian Keyhan , Jin Lingling
Published: March 2023

Summary: Genomic selection (GS) models use single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers to predict phenotypes. However, these predictive models face challenges due to the high dimensionality of genome-wide SNP marker data. Thanks to recent breakthroughs in DNA sequencing and decreased sequencing cost, the study of novel genomic variants such as structural variations (SVs) and transposable elements (TEs) become increasingly prevalent. In this article, we develop a deep convolutional neural network model, NovGMDeep, to predict phenotypes using SVs and TEs markers for GS. The proposed model is trained and tested on samples of Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa using k-fold cross-validation. The prediction accuracy is evaluated using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient (PCC), mean absolute error (MAE) and SD of MAE. The predicted results showed higher correlation when the model is trained with SVs and TEs than with SNPs. NovGMDeep also has higher prediction accuracy when comparing with conventional statistical models. This work sheds light on the unappreciated function of SVs and TEs in genotype-to-phenotype associations, as well as their extensive significance and value in crop development.
NDEx IQuery: a multi-method network gene set analysis leveraging the Network Data Exchange
Authors: Pillich Rudolf T , Chen Jing , Churas Christopher , Fong Dylan , Gyori Benjamin M , Ideker Trey , Karis Klas , Liu Sophie N , Ono Keiichiro , Pico Alexander , Pratt Dexter
Published: March 2023

Motivation

The investigation of sets of genes using biological pathways is a common task for researchers and is supported by a wide variety of software tools. This type of analysis generates hypotheses about the biological processes that are active or modulated in a specific experimental context.

Results

The Network Data Exchange Integrated Query (NDEx IQuery) is a new tool for network and pathway-based gene set interpretation that complements or extends existing resources. It combines novel sources of pathways, integration with Cytoscape, and the ability to store and share analysis results. The NDEx IQuery web application performs multiple gene set analyses based on diverse pathways and networks stored in NDEx. These include curated pathways from WikiPathways and SIGNOR, published pathway figures from the last 27 years, machine-assembled networks using the INDRA system, and the new NCI-PID v2.0, an updated version of the popular NCI Pathway Interaction Database. NDEx IQuery’s integration with MSigDB and cBioPortal now provides pathway analysis in the context of these two resources.

Availability and implementation

NDEx IQuery is available at https://www.ndexbio.org/iquery and is implemented in Javascript and Java.
genomepy: genes and genomes at your fingertips
Authors: Frölich Siebren , van der Sande Maarten , Schäfers Tilman , van Heeringen Simon J
Published: March 2023

Motivation

Analyzing a functional genomics experiment, such as ATAC-, ChIP-, or RNA-sequencing, requires genomic resources such as a reference genome assembly and gene annotation. These data can generally be retrieved from different organizations and in different versions. Most bioinformatic workflows require the user to supply this genomic data manually, which can be a tedious and error-prone process.

Results

Here, we present genomepy, which can search, download, and preprocess the right genomic data for your analysis. Genomepy can search genomic data on NCBI, Ensembl, UCSC, and GENCODE, and inspect available gene annotations to enable an informed decision. The selected genome and gene annotation can be downloaded and preprocessed with sensible, yet controllable, defaults. Additional supporting data can be automatically generated or downloaded, such as aligner indexes, genome metadata, and blacklists.

Availability and implementation

Genomepy is freely available at https://github.com/vanheeringen-lab/genomepy under the MIT license and can be installed through pip or Bioconda.
Divergent patterns of intraspecific trait variation among floral and vegetative characters in the hyperdominant dioecious Neotropical treeVirola sebifera(Myristicaceae)
Authors: De Oliveira Brito Wellison Rafael , De Sales Dambros Cristian , Cardoso Domingos , Scudeller Veridiana Vizoni , Zartman Charles E
Published: March 2023

Many Neotropical tree species are widespread at continental and even inter-continental scales, but phenotypic variation across their respective ranges has rarely been quantified. We measured traits in the widespread, unisexual Neotropical tree Virola sebifera (Myristicaceae) across its continental-scale range, and predicted that, given its hyperdominant status, generalist-pollinated flower type, high dispersal capacity and wide ecological amplitude there would be: (1) a weak relationship among and within reproductive and vegetative characters with environmental, spatial and biome correlates; (2) undetectable canalization of reproductive traits; and (3) high phenotypic variation of vegetative characters. We measured five foliar and seven floral traits from 187 male-expressing individuals of V. sebifera in specimens collected from Central to South America. Spatial regression models were employed to test for the importance of distance, elevation, mean annual rainfall and temperature on phenotypic variation. Pairwise correlations of vegetative and reproductive characters were calculated to examine intraspecific trait variation among and within these two classes. We found that most phenotypic variation was weakly explained by spatial predictors such as certain major South American domains like the Andes Cordillera and the Amazon Basin. Within-class comparisons of floral characters were no different than among-class (floral-foliar) correlates, suggesting the absence of canalization of reproductive structures. Greater phenotypic variation in flowers relative to leaves may be due to the generalist pollinator regime and high dispersal capacity thus relaxing divergences in the evolutionary process of its floral morphology. The results of these morphometric analyses (e.g. weak signals of isolation by distance) in combination with the biology of this Neotropical tree suggest that V. sebifera operates as a well-dispersed metapopulation across most of its range.
ARID1Amutations in cancer development: mechanism and therapy
Authors: Zhang Xuewei , Zhang Yixuan , Zhao Jinyi , Wu Yinjie , Zhang Na , Shen Wenjing
Published: March 2023

AT-Rich Interaction Domain 1A (ARID1A) is an important SWItch/Sucrose Non-Fermentation (SWI/SNF) chromatin remodeling complex subunit, and its coding gene has a high mutation frequency in many cancers. Current studies have reported that ARID1A mutational status is correlated to cancer development, including cell proliferation, invasiveness, metastasis, and morphological alterations. ARID1A acts as a tumor suppressor, regulating gene transcription, participating in DNA damage response, and influencing tumor immune microenvironment and signaling pathways. The absence of ARID1A in cancer can lead to widespread dysregulation of gene expression in cancer initiation, promotion, and progression. For patients with ARID1A mutations, effective individualized treatment can improve the prognosis of patients. In this review, we aim to discuss the mechanism of ARID1A mutations in cancer development and explore the significance of discoveries for treatment.
Association of alopecia areata with alcohol use disorder, attention–deficit hyperactivity disorder and insomnia: a case–control analysis using the All of Us research programme
Authors: Joshi Tejas P , Zhu Harrison , Tomaras Miranda , Terrell Maci , Strouphauer Emily , Stafford Haleigh , Okundia Fyona , Iacobucci Alexander , Holla Swathi , Hinson Darien , Hanania Hannah , Gonzalez Clarissa , Gedeon Francesca , Garcia Danielle , Friske Sarah , Fernandez Briana , Stolar Andrea , Ren Vicky
Published: March 2023

Although recent research has shown a clear link between alopecia areata (AA) and anxiety and depression, the association of AA with other psychiatric comorbidities has been poorly studied. In this National Institutes of Health database study, we show AA to be significantly associated with alcohol use disorder, attention–deficit hyperactivity disorder and insomnia. Dermatologists may be uniquely situated to screen for these previously under-recognized comorbidities and refer people to mental health services when appropriate.
What do we know about co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory immune checkpoint signals in ankylosing spondylitis?
Authors: Schütz Christian , Baraliakos Xenofon
Published: March 2023

Ankylosing spondylitis is the main entity of a family of inflammatory diseases affecting many musculoskeletal (sacroiliac joints, spine, and peripheral joints) and extra-musculoskeletal sites, termed spondyloarthritis. While it is debated whether disease onset is primarily driven by autoimmune or autoinflammatory processes, what is certain is that both innate and adaptive immune responses orchestrate local and systemic inflammation, which leads to chronic pain and immobility. Immune checkpoint signals are one key player in keeping the immune system in check and in balance, but their role in disease pathogenesis is still rather elusive. Therefore, we ran a MEDLINE search utilizing the PubMed platform for a variety of immune checkpoint signals in regard to ankylosing spondylitis. In this review, we summarize the experimental and genetic data available and evaluate the relevance of immune checkpoint signalling in the pathogenesis of ankylosing spondylitis. Markers such as PD-1 and CTLA-4 have been extensively studied and facilitate the concept of an impaired negative immune regulation in ankylosing spondylitis. Other markers are either neglected completely or insufficiently examined, and the data is conflicting. Still, some of those markers remain interesting targets to decipher the pathogenesis of ankylosing spondylitis and to develop new treatment strategies.
Clinical Perspective on Human Immunodeficiency Virus Care of Ukrainian War Refugees in Poland
Authors: Parczewski Miłosz , Jabłonowska Elżbieta , Wójcik-Cichy Kamila , Zhyvytsia Dmytro , Witak-Jędra Magdalena , Leszczyszyn-Pynka Magdalena , Aksak-Wąs Bogusz , Siwak Ewa , Cielniak Iwona , Olczak Anita , Szymczak Aleksandra , Szetela Bartosz , Bociąga-Jasik Monika , Kalinowska-Nowak Anna , Mularska Elżbieta , Witor Adam , Jakubowski Paweł , Hlebowicz Maria , Rozpłochowski Błażej , Łojewski Władysław , Scheibe Kaja , Serwin Karol
Published: March 2023

Background

The Russian invasion of Ukraine forced migration for safety, protection, and assistance. Poland is the primary sheltering country for Ukrainian refugees, providing support including medical care, which resulted in the rapid ∼15% increase in the number of followed-up people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (PWH) in the country. Here, we present the national experience on HIV care provided for refugees from Ukraine.

Methods

Clinical, antiretroviral, immunological, and virologic data from 955 Ukrainian PWH entering care in Poland since February 2022 were analyzed. The dataset included both antiretroviral-treated (n = 851) and newly diagnosed (n = 104) patients. In 76 cases, protease/reverse transcriptase/integrase sequencing was performed to identify drug resistance and subtype.

Results

Most (70.05%) of the patients were female, with a predominance of heterosexual (70.3%) transmissions. Anti–hepatitis C antibody and hepatitis B antigen were present in 28.7% and 2.9% of the patients, respectively. A history of tuberculosis was reported in 10.1% of cases. Among previously treated patients, the viral suppression rate was 89.6%; 77.3% of newly HIV diagnosed cases were diagnosed late (with lymphocyte CD4 count <350 cells/μL or AIDS). The A6 variant was observed in 89.0% of sequences. Transmitted mutations in the reverse transcriptase were found in 15.4% treatment-naive cases. Two patients with treatment failure exhibited multiclass drug resistance.

Conclusions

Migration from Ukraine influences the characteristics of HIV epidemics in Europe, with an increase in the proportion of women and hepatitis C coinfected patients. Antiretroviral treatment efficacy among previously treated refugees was high, with new HIV cases frequently diagnosed late. The A6 subtype was the most common variant.
Future landscape for the management of membranous nephropathy
Authors: Caravaca-Fontán Fernando , Yandian Federico , Fervenza Fernando C
Published: March 2023

Among all glomerular diseases, membranous nephropathy (MN) is perhaps the one in which major progress has been made in recent decades, in both the understanding of the pathogenesis and treatment. Despite the overall significant response rates to these therapies—particularly rituximab and cyclical regimen based on corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide—cumulative experience over the years has shown, however, that 20%–30% of cases may confront resistant disease. Thus, these unmet challenges in the treatment of resistant forms of MN require newer approaches. Several emerging new agents—developed primarily for the treatment of hematological malignancies or rheumatoid diseases—are currently being evaluated in MN. Herein we conducted a narrative review on future therapeutic strategies in the disease. Among the different novel therapies, newer anti-CD20 agents (e.g. obinutuzumab), anti-CD38 (e.g. daratumumab, felzartamab), immunoadsorption or anti-complement therapies (e.g. iptacopan) have gained special attention. In addition, several technologies and innovations developed primarily for cancer (e.g. chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy, sweeping antibodies) seem particularly promising. In summary, the future therapeutic landscape in MN seems encouraging and will definitely move the management of this disease towards a more precision-based approach.
Bioenergetics modelling of growth processes in parasitized Eastern Baltic cod (Gadus morhua L.)
Authors: Ryberg Marie Plambech , Christensen Asbjørn , Jørgensen Christian , Neuenfeldt Stefan , Skov Peter V , Behrens Jane W
Published: March 2023

Changes in physiological processes can reveal how individuals respond to environmental stressors. It can be difficult to link physiological responses to changes in vital rates such as growth, reproduction and survival. Here, bioenergetics modelling can aid in understanding non-intuitive outcomes from stressor combinations. Building on an established bioenergetics model, we examine the potential effects of parasite infection on growth rate and body condition. Parasites represent an overlooked biotic factor, despite their known effects on the physiology of the host organism. As a case study, we use the host–parasite system of Eastern Baltic cod (Gadus morhua) infected with the parasitic nematode Contraceacum osculatum. Eastern Baltic cod have during the past decade experienced increasing infection loads with C. osculatum that have been shown to lead to physiological changes. We hypothesized that infection with parasites affects cod growth negatively as previous studies reveal that the infections lead to reduced energy turnover, severe liver disease and reduced nutritional condition. To test this, we implemented new variables into the bioenergetics model representing the physiological changes in infected fish and parameterized these based on previous experimental data. We found that growth rate and body condition decreased with increased infection load. Highly infected cod reach a point of no return where their energy intake cannot maintain a surplus energy balance, which may eventually lead to induced mortality. In conclusion, parasite infections cannot be ignored when assessing drivers of fish stock dynamics.
Clinical and prognostic associations of autoantibodies recognizing adrenergic/muscarinic receptors in patients with heart failure
Authors: Markousis-Mavrogenis George , Minich Waldemar B , Al-Mubarak Ali A , Anker Stefan D , Cleland John G F , Dickstein Kenneth , Lang Chim C , Ng Leong L , Samani Nilesh J , Zannad Faiez , Metra Marco , Seemann Petra , Hoeg Antonia , Lopez Patricio , van Veldhuisen Dirk J , de Boer Rudolf A , Voors Adriaan A , van der Meer Peter , Schomburg Lutz , Bomer Nils ,   The BIOSTAT-CHF Consortium
Published: March 2023

Aims

The importance of autoantibodies (AABs) against adrenergic/muscarinic receptors in heart failure (HF) is not well-understood. We investigated the prevalence and clinical/prognostic associations of four AABs recognizing the M2-muscarinic receptor or the β1-, β2-, or β3-adrenergic receptor in a large and well-characterized cohort of patients with HF.

Methods and results

Serum samples from 2256 patients with HF from the BIOSTAT-CHF cohort and 299 healthy controls were analysed using newly established chemiluminescence immunoassays. The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause mortality and HF rehospitalization at 2-year follow-up, and each outcome was also separately investigated. Collectively, 382 (16.9%) patients and 37 (12.4%) controls were seropositive for ≥1 AAB (P = 0.045). Seropositivity occurred more frequently only for anti-M2 AABs (P = 0.025). Amongst patients with HF, seropositivity was associated with the presence of comorbidities (renal disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, stroke, and atrial fibrillation) and with medication use. Only anti-β1 AAB seropositivity was associated with the primary outcome [hazard ratio (95% confidence interval): 1.37 (1.04–1.81), P = 0.024] and HF rehospitalization [1.57 (1.13–2.19), P = 0.010] in univariable analyses but remained associated only with HF rehospitalization after multivariable adjustment for the BIOSTAT-CHF risk model [1.47 (1.05–2.07), P = 0.030]. Principal component analyses showed considerable overlap in B-lymphocyte activity between seropositive and seronegative patients, based on 31 circulating biomarkers related to B-lymphocyte function.

Conclusions

AAB seropositivity was not strongly associated with adverse outcomes in HF and was mostly related to the presence of comorbidities and medication use. Only anti-β1 AABs were independently associated with HF rehospitalization. The exact clinical value of AABs remains to be elucidated.
Diagnostic accuracy of cardiovascular magnetic resonance strain analysis and atrial size to identify heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Ng Ming-Yen , Kwan Chi Ting , Yap Pui Min , Fung Sau Yung , Tang Hok Shing , Tse Wan Wai Vivian , Kwan Cheuk Nam Felix , Chow Yin Hay Phoebe , Yiu Nga Ching , Lee Yung Pok , Fong Ambrose Ho Tung , Hwang Subin , Fong Zachary Fai Wang , Ren Qing-Wen , Wu Mei-Zhen , Wan Eric Yuk Fai , Lee Ka Chun Kevin , Leung Chun Yu , Li Andrew , Montero David , Vardhanabhuti Varut , Hai JoJo , Siu Chung-Wah , Tse Hung-Fat , Pennell Dudley John , Mohiaddin Raad , Senior Roxy , Yiu Kai-Hang
Published: March 2023

Aims

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) continues to be a diagnostic challenge. Cardiac magnetic resonance atrial measurement, feature tracking (CMR-FT), tagging has long been suggested to diagnose HFpEF and potentially complement echocardiography especially when echocardiography is indeterminate. Data supporting the use of CMR atrial measurements, CMR-FT or tagging, are absent. Our aim is to conduct a prospective case-control study assessing the diagnostic accuracy of CMR atrial volume/area, CMR-FT, and tagging to diagnose HFpEF amongst patients suspected of having HFpEF.

Methods and results

One hundred and twenty-one suspected HFpEF patients were prospectively recruited from four centres. Patients underwent echocardiography, CMR, and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) measurements within 24 h to diagnose HFpEF. Patients without HFpEF diagnosis underwent catheter pressure measurements or stress echocardiography to confirm HFpEF or non-HFpEF. Area under the curve (AUC) was determined by comparing HFpEF with non-HFpEF patients. Fifty-three HFpEF (median age 78 years, interquartile range 74–82 years) and thirty-eight non-HFpEF (median age 70 years, interquartile range 64–76 years) were recruited. Cardiac magnetic resonance left atrial (LA) reservoir strain (ResS), LA area index (LAAi), and LA volume index (LAVi) had the highest diagnostic accuracy (AUCs 0.803, 0.815, and 0.776, respectively). Left atrial ResS, LAAi, and LAVi had significantly better diagnostic accuracy than CMR-FT left ventricle (LV)/right ventricle (RV) parameters and tagging (P < 0.01). Tagging circumferential and radial strain had poor diagnostic accuracy (AUC 0.644 and 0.541, respectively).

Conclusion

Cardiac magnetic resonance LA ResS, LAAi, and LAVi have the highest diagnostic accuracy to identify HFpEF patients from non-HFpEF patients amongst clinically suspected HFpEF patients. Cardiac magnetic resonance feature tracking LV/RV parameters and tagging had low diagnostic accuracy to diagnose HFpEF.
The legacy of Covid-19 in education
Authors: Werner Katharina , Woessmann Ludger
Published: March 2023

If school closures and social-distancing experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic impeded children’s skill development, they may leave a lasting legacy in human capital. Our parental survey during the second German school lockdown provides new measures of socio-emotional development and panel evidence on how students’ time use and educational inputs adapted over time. Children’s learning time decreased severely during the first school closures, particularly for low-achieving students, and increased only slightly 1 year later. In a value-added model, learning time increases with daily online class instruction, but not with other school activities. Parental assessments of children’s socio-emotional development are mixed. Discussing our findings in light of the emerging literature on substantial achievement losses, we conclude that unless remediated, the school closures will persistently increase inequality and reduce skill development, lifetime income and economic growth.
Market structure and creative cluster formation: the origins of urban clusters in German literature, 1700–1932
Authors: Kuld Lukas , Mitchell Sara
Published: March 2023

Using yearly data on 153 prominent German authors (1700–1932), we show how changes in the political and economic environment facilitated the formation of literary clusters. Early authors follow general population patterns, leading to geographic dispersion in a patronage system characterized by spatial competition. At the end of the nineteenth century, authors concentrate in large economic and political capitals. These changes in location patterns mirror trends in political and territorial consolidation and the professionalization of authorship. The last cohort shows large-scale migration into literary centers around the age of 20 years. Therefore, these literary clusters are not due to changing birth locations.
Quantitative PCR versus metagenomics for monitoring antibiotic resistance genes: balancing high sensitivity and broad coverage
Authors: Ferreira Catarina , Otani Saria , Aarestrup Frank Møller , Manaia Célia M
Published: March 2023

The widespread occurrence of clinically relevant antibiotic resistance within humans, animals, and environment motivates the development of sensitive and accurate detection and quantification methods. Metagenomics and quantitative PCR (qPCR) are amongst the most used approaches. In this study, we aimed to evaluate and compare the performance of these methods to screen antibiotic resistance genes in animal faecal, wastewater, and water samples. Water and wastewater samples were from hospital effluent, different treatment stages of two treatment plants, and of the receiving river at the discharge point. The animal samples were from pig and chicken faeces. Antibiotic resistance gene coverage, sensitivity, and usefulness of the quantitative information were analyzed and discussed. While both methods were able to distinguish the resistome profiles and detect gradient stepwise mixtures of pig and chicken faeces, qPCR presented higher sensitivity for the detection of a few antibiotic resistance genes in water/wastewater. In addition, the comparison of predicted and observed antibiotic resistance gene quantifications unveiled the higher accuracy of qPCR. Metagenomics analyses, while less sensitive, provided a markedly higher coverage of antibiotic resistance genes compared to qPCR. The complementarity of both methods and the importance of selecting the best method according to the study purpose are discussed.
Evaluation of an oral health programme targeting prison inmates in Saudi Arabia
Authors: AlHumaid Jehan , Gaffar Balgis , Alluhaidan Tasneem , AlSulaimi Leenah , AlShuraim Faris , Aljamaan Ibrahim , Al Onaizan Faisal
Published: March 2023

This paper aimed to evaluate the impact of an oral health programme targeting prisoners in eastern Saudi Arabia. The reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation and maintenance (RE-AIM) strategy was used as the evaluation framework to assess both process and outcome. This annual programme included four stations: an interview, an educational session, dental examination and treatment. Programme indicators included the number of prisoners reached, percent improvement in oral health practices, teeth present in the mouth and percent reduction in dental treatment needs. A non-experimental pre- and post-programme evaluation design was implemented. Prisons in eastern Saudi Arabia were visited once a year from 2016 to 2019. The evaluation used primary data collected during the visits in the form of clinical examination and surveys. The number of beneficiaries increased from 270 to 634, and three cities within the Eastern province were covered. The percent of inmates who smoke and consume sugary drinks decreased by 24 and 30%, respectively; however, there was a 25% reduction in regular toothbrushing using a fluoridated toothpaste. The long-term outcomes showed an improvement in the overall oral health condition and treatment needs: periodontal treatment needs and surgical procedures were reduced by 91 and 79%, respectively. The programme was successful based on the RE-AIM framework. This is the first sustainable oral health programme targeting prison inmates in the Middle East. The findings indicate that the oral health programme had positive effects on prisoners’ oral health and achieved its objectives. Such programmes can help address health disparities among populations.