bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Engineering of Hard–Soft Carbon Hybrid Anodes for Ultrafast and Ultradurable Potassium‐Ion Storage
Authors: Yang Lei , Zhao Yineng , Zhang Yiqun , Zhu Chunliu , Wang Wei , Shi Jing , Liu Shuai , Chen Jingwei , Huang Minghua , Wu Jingyi , Wang Huanlei
Published: December 2023

Hard–soft carbon hybrid materials, harvesting the expanded interlayer spacing of hard carbon and the high conductivity of soft carbon, hold great promise as anode materials for potassium‐ion batteries, but efficient and precise structural control remains a major challenge. Herein, hollow porous bowl‐like hard–soft carbon hybrid materials (BHSCs) are facilely synthesized by an in situ hard‐template strategy. It is found that the outer and inner walls of the hard carbon bowls are uniformly wrapped by graphene‐like soft carbon, which accelerates electron transport and promotes the insertion of potassium ions. Finite element simulation further reveals that the soft–hard–soft carbon shell structure releases stress during the insertion of potassium ions. As a result, BHSC anode exhibits an extraordinary rate capability (209 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1) and excellent cycle stability with a capacity of 208 mAh g−1 after 5000 cycles at 2 A g−1. Impressively, the as‐assembled potassium‐ion hybrid capacitor based on BHSC anode delivers a great energy/power density (116 Wh kg−1/12980 W kg−1) and outstanding capacity retention of 83% after 8000 cycles. This work provides guidance for rational structural design of hard–soft carbon hybrid materials to improve their potassium‐ion storage performance.
Surface‐based convection inland in winter? A further example
Authors: Webb Jonathan D
Published: December 2023

An apparent incidence of surface‐based winter convection was observed well inland over the south Midlands on 20 December 2020.
Fostering an “investigating mindset”: Why is it important in digital forensic science education?
Authors: Horsman Graeme , Ryser Elenore , Shavers Brett
Published: December 2023

The importance of the field of digital forensics (DF) is growing, where digital evidence is increasingly recognized as a crucial part of many investigations. As a result, criminal justice systems rely on DF practitioners to conduct robust investigations of digital devices and their data, and interpret and present these results in a way that can be relied upon. Undertaking this task appropriately requires a practitioner to have a range of skills; however, focus is often placed on the need for and importance of technical competency. Technical skills are vital in this role, that cannot be in dispute; however, this work discusses the need for practitioners to also have an “investigative mindset.”

This article is categorized under:

Digital and Multimedia Science > Cybercrime Investigation
Effect of co-trimoxazole and N-acetylcysteine alone and in combination on bacterial adherence on ureteral stent surface
Authors: AbdelRazek Mostafa , Mohamed Omar , Ashour Reham , Alemam Mohamed , El-Gelany Mohamed , Abdel-Kader Mohammed S.
Published: December 2023

To assess the effect of co-trimoxazole and N-acetylcysteine (NAC), alone and in combination, on bacterial adherence to biofilm formed on ureteral stent surfaces. This prospective randomized study was conducted on 636 patients who underwent double J ureteral stent insertion after variable urological procedures. Patients were randomized into four groups: A (n = 165), no antibiotics or mucolytics during stent indwelling; B (n = 153), oral NAC (200 mg/day for children aged < 12 years old and 600 mg/day for adults) during stent indwelling; C (n = 162), oral co-trimoxazole (2 mg TMP/kg/day) during stent indwelling; and D (n = 156), both oral NAC and co-trimoxazole during stent indwelling. Two weeks following double J stent (JJ stent) insertion, urinalysis was performed on all patients and urine culture was done for all the patients at the day of double J stent removal. The stent was removed 2 weeks postoperatively, and a stent segment sized 3–5 cm from the bladder segment of the stent was sent for culture. Positive stent cultures were found in 63.6% (105/165), 43.1% (66/153), 37% (60/162), and 19.2% (30/156) patients of groups A, B, C, and D, respectively. E. coli was the organism most commonly isolated from the stent culture in all groups. The combination of co-trimoxazole and NAC was more effective in reducing bacterial adherence on ureteral stent surfaces than either alone.
Niedrigwasseraufhöhung und Grundwasseranreicherung zwischen Klimaanpassung und Gewässerbewirtschaftung – Zugleich ein Beitrag zur Auslegung der Bewirtschaftungsziele der Wasserrahmenrichtlinie
Authors: Reinhardt Michael
Published: December 2023

Die Aufhöhung von Niedrigwasser oberirdischer Gewässer und die Anreicherung des Grundwassers
erlangen zunehmende Bedeutung als Maßnahmen zur künstlichen Kompensation klimabedingter Beeinträchtigungen
des natürlichen Wasserhaushalts. Der Beitrag nimmt eine erste wasserhaushaltsrechtliche Einordnung
vor und untersucht die überkommenen Bewirtschaftungsziele der Wasserrahmenrichtlinie unter dem Eindruck
der Bedürfnisse des Klimawandels. Danach sind Niedrigwasseraufhöhung und Grundwasseranreicherung
als Maßnahmen der Klimaanpassung nach geltendem Recht nicht Pflicht, sondern Kür der staatlichen
Gewässerbewirtschaftung.
Associations between ultrafine particle pollution and daily outpatient visits for respiratory diseases in Shanghai, China: a time-series analysis
Authors: Yan Ran , Ying Shengjie , Jiang Yixuan , Duan Yusen , Chen Renjie , Kan Haidong , Fu Qingyan , Gu Yiqin
Published: December 2023

Previous epidemiological studies have linked short-term exposure to particulate matter with outpatient visits for respiratory diseases. However, evidence on ultrafine particle (UFP) is still scarce in China. To investigate the association between short-term UFP exposure and outpatient visits for respiratory diseases as well as the corresponding lag patterns, information on outpatient visits for main respiratory diseases during January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2019 was collected from electronic medical records of two large tertiary hospitals in Shanghai, China. Generalized additive models employing a Quasi-Poisson distribution were employed to investigate the relationships between UFP and respiratory diseases. We computed the percentage change and its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) for outpatient visits related to respiratory diseases per interquartile range (IQR) increase in UFP concentrations. Based on a total of 1,034,394 hospital visits for respiratory diseases in Shanghai, China, we found that the strongest associations of total UFP with acute upper respiratory tract infection (AURTI), bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pneumonia occurred at lag 03, 03, 0, and 03 days, respectively. Each IQR increase in the total UFP concentrations was associated with increments of 9.02% (95% CI: 8.64–9.40%), 3.94% (95% CI: 2.84–5.06%), 4.10% (95% CI: 3.01–5.20%), and 10.15% (95% CI: 9.32–10.99%) for AURTI, bronchitis, COPD, and pneumonia, respectively. Almost linear concentration–response relationship curves without apparent thresholds were observed between total UFP and outpatient-department visits for four respiratory diseases. Stratified analyses illustrated significantly stronger associations of total UFP with AURTI, bronchitis, and pneumonia among female patients, while that with COPD was stronger among male patients. After adjustment of criteria air pollutants, these associations all remained robust. This time-series study indicates that short-term exposure to UFP was associated with increased risk of hospital visits for respiratory diseases, underscoring the importance of reducing ambient UFP concentrations for respiratory diseases control and prevention.
Intelligent navigation for the cruise phase of solar system boundary exploration based on Q-learning EKF
Authors: Tao Wenjian , Zhang Jinxiu , Hu Hang , Zhang Juzheng , Sun Huijie , Zeng Zhankui , Song Jianing , Wang Jihe
Published: December 2023

With the continuous advancement of deep space exploration missions, the solar system boundary exploration mission is established as one of the China's most important deep space scientific exploration missions. The mission of the solar system boundary exploration has many challenges such as ultra-remote detection distance, ultra-long operation time, and ultra-long communication delay. Therefore, the problem of high-precision autonomous navigation needs to be solved urgently. This paper designs an autonomous intelligent navigation method based on X-ray pulsars in the cruise phase, which estimate the motion state of the probe in real time. The proposed navigation method employs the Q-learning Extended Kalman filter (QLEKF) to improve navigation accuracy during long periods of self-determining running. The QLEKF selects automatically the error covariance matrix parameter of the process noise and the measurement noise by the reward mechanism of reinforcement learning. Compared to the traditional EKF and AEKF, the QLEKF improves the estimation accuracy of position and velocity. Finally, the simulation result demonstrates the effectiveness and the superiority of the intelligent navigation algorithm based on QLEKF, which can satisfy the high-precision navigation requirements in the cruise phase of the solar system boundary exploration.
A critical review of the interactions between rhizosphere and biochar during the remediation of metal(loid) contaminated soils
Authors: Fan Chuanfang , Cui Yanshan , Zhang Qianru , Yin Naiyi , Cai Xiaolin , Yuan Xiangzhou , Senadheera Sachini , Cho Yoora , Ok Yong Sik
Published: December 2023

Biochar has a large specific surface area, well-developed pore structure, abundant surface functional groups, and superior nutrient supply capacity, which is widely available and environmentally friendly with its advantages in waste resource utilization, heavy metal(loid) remediation, and carbon storage. This review focuses on the interactions between biochar (including raw biochar, functional biochar (modified/ engineered/ designer biochar), and composite biochar) and rhizosphere during the remediation of soil contaminated with heavy metal(loid)s (Pb, As, Cd, Hg, Co, Cu, Ni, Zn, Cr, etc.) and the effects of these interactions on the microbial communities and root exudates (enzymes and low-molecular-weight organic acids (LMWOAs)). In terms of microorganisms, biochar affects the composition, diversity, and structure of microbial communities through the supply of nutrients, provision of microbial colonization sites, immobilization of heavy metal(loid)s, and introduction of exogenous microorganisms. With regard to root exudates, biochar provides electron transfer support between the microorganisms and exudates, regulates the secretion of enzymes to resist the oxidative stress stimulated by heavy metal(loid)s, ameliorates rhizosphere acidification caused by LMWOAs, and promotes the activity of soil enzymes. The roles and mechanisms of biochar on rhizosphere soils are discussed, as well as the challenges of biochar in the remediation of heavy metal(loid)-contaminated soils, and the issues that need to be addressed in future research are foreseen.

Graphical Abstract
Community health surveillance via digital collection of syndromic and behavior data by community healthcare workers in rural Kenya: a pilot study
Authors: van Herpen Maarten M. J. W. , Saadah Nicholas H. , Otieno Pieter , Kiara Lemmy , Diehl J. C.
Published: December 2023

Disease surveillance is essential to enable adequate detection and response to disease outbreaks. Syndromic surveillance is used to augment traditional approaches, especially in community-based surveillance. Here we demonstrate that Community Healthcare Workers (CHWs) supported by a mobile phone application can provide community-based syndromic disease surveillance in low-resource settings, and that they are able to generate relevant symptom-based and behavior data such as cough symptoms, use of mosquito nets and availability of household handwashing facilities. We analyzed 1.6 million data points collected by CHWs during home visits in rural Kenya as a proof of principle that the symptoms and behavior they observe can be used as a community-based health surveillance tool. To demonstrate the relevance of the data, we show that national covid-19 case numbers did not align with reported cough symptoms in remote populations, which implies that rural populations did not experience covid-19 outbreaks in tandem with urban populations. We also found that the behavior of using long-lasting insecticidal nets could be tracked by the CHWs, and it followed the seasonality of the mosquito burden. Strengthening community-based syndromic and behavior surveillance through CHWs is therefore a great opportunity to strengthen national public health surveillance and response in Africa and should be included in the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) strategy.
Conceptualization, development, and early dissemination of eMPACTTM: A competency-based career navigation system for translational research professionals
Authors: Choi Ikseon , Kwon Sejung , Rojewski Jay W. , Hill Janette R. , Kim Eunice S. , Fisher Elaine , Thomas Rebecca S. , McCauley Linda
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

Purposeful training and ongoing career support are necessary to meet the evolving and expanding roles of clinical research professionals (CRP). To address the training and employment needs of clinical research coordinators (CRCs), one of the largest sectors of the CRP workforce, we designed, developed, and implemented an online career navigation system, eMPACTTM (eMpowering Purposeful Advancement of Careers and Training).

Methods:

A design-based research method was employed as an overarching approach that frames iterative design, development, and implementation of educational interventions. The five major phases of this project – conceptualization, task analysis for measurement development, algorithms development, algorithms validation, and system evaluation – presented specific goals and relevant methods.

Results:

The results reported how the eMPACTTM system was conceptualized, developed, and validated. The system allowed CRCs to navigate tailored training and job opportunities by completing their task competencies and career goals. The data sets could, in turn, support employees’ and training coordinators’ informed decisions about organizational training needs and recruitment. The early dissemination results showed steady growth in registered CRCs and diversity in users’ ethnicity and job levels.

Conclusions:

The eMPACTTM service showed the possibility of supporting CRCs’ individual career advancement and organizational workforce enhancement and diversity. Long-term research is needed to evaluate its impact on CRC workforce development, explore key factors influencing workforce sustainability, and expand eMPACTTM service to other CRP sectors.
Cycling Assessment: A tool to inform policymakers and enhance the cyclist’s travel experience, with a gender perspective
Authors: Ángel Angie , Gómez Laura Daniela , Rincón Maryfely
Published: December 2023

Since 1998, Bogotá has consistently made substantial efforts to foster the bicycle’s role as a primary mode of transportation. Recent years have witnessed a compelling aspiration for the city to ascend as the “bicycle capital of the world,” evident in its accomplishment of 6.6% of daily trips completed by bicycle in 2019. This achievement translates to 880.367 daily cycling journeys (District Secretariat of Mobility of Bogotá, 2019). These statistics surpass regional benchmarks; for instance, other capital cities such as Santiago de Chile account for 510.569 bicycle trips, Mexico City for 433.981, and Rio de Janeiro for 217.000 (Ríos et al., 2015). Despite this progress, Bogotá lacks a comprehensive evaluation of both infrastructure quality and the user experience while cycling.

This translational research article aimed to explore this gap by delving into the integration of user perceptions and experiences within the policy formulation process. This strategic approach is poised to enhance cycling’s allure as a mode of transportation for prospective cyclists while simultaneously maximizing the efficiency of investments in cycling infrastructure.
The Basel Compactata and the Limits of Religious Coexistence in the Age of Conciliarism and Beyond
Authors: Pálka Adam
Published: December 2023

The Compactata, one of the most significant documents related to the Council of Basel, have not been analyzed and understood properly in the historiography, both in relation to their content and impact. This article aims to provide a better understanding of the Basel Compactata by discussing the controversial nature of these documents as demonstrated in international diplomacy and polemical writings of the fifteenth century. The diplomatic missions of J. Carvajal, N. Cusanus, J. Capistrano, and E. S. Piccolomini prove that the Compactata could easily have become a crucial bone of contention between Catholics and Bohemian Utraquists even on the international level. Rather surprisingly, the Catholic diplomats’ negative approach toward the Compactata does not appear to have been influenced by their origins in the controversial Council of Basel, for other phenomena such as craving for perfect unity and alleged transgressions of the treaties played a more prominent role. A thorough examination of polemical writings shows that there existed major differences between the standard Catholic and Utraquist interpretation of the key provision of the Compactata, which was possible due to their compromise wording. Such differences could affect considerably the situation in the Czech Lands. For instance, the emergence of a semi-independent Utraquist Church after 1436 was not explicitly stated in the Compactata and was enabled by the manner in which the Utraquists interpreted their text. Although the Compactata did contribute to the stabilization of the political situation in the Czech Lands, unproductive disputes over their meaning actually disturbed the idea of peaceful coexistence between the Catholics and Utraquists.
THE LONG AND UNFINISHED ROAD TO FRIEDMAN AND MEISELMAN’S “THE RELATIVE STABILITY OF MONETARY VELOCITY AND THE INVESTMENT MULTIPLIER”
Authors: Tavlas George S.
Published: December 2023

Milton Friedman and David Meiselman’s 1963 article, “The Relative Stability of Monetary Velocity and the Investment Multiplier in the United States, 1897–1958,” was one of the most influential studies to come out of the Keynesian-monetarist debates of the 1960s and 1970s. The gestation of the article, however, is shrouded with considerable inaccuracy and ambiguity. I use archival materials to provide a more accurate chronological ordering of the gestation of the article than has hitherto been available. I show that the gestation was subject to considerable delays. I provide reasons that explain why a long-promised follow-up paper was never completed and why a book sequel to Friedman’s 1956 Studies in the Quantity Theory of Money, planned as a co-edited work shortly after the appearance of the Friedman and Meiselman 1963 article, was not published until 1970 and was edited by Meiselman alone.
THE ORIGINS OF YIELD CURVE THEORY: IRVING FISHER AND JOHN MAYNARD KEYNES
Authors: Brillant Lucy
Published: December 2023

The purpose of the paper is to rescue Irving Fisher’s theorizing of the yield curve (1896, 1907, 1930) from relative obscurity and to contrast it with the better known and equally pioneering theory of John Maynard Keynes (1930, 1936). The paper also adduces evidence that Fed economists and the U.S. monetary experience in the 1920s greatly influenced these authors, both of whom were concerned with the management of the long-term interest rate.
Stress bewältigen, Herausforderungen meistern
Authors: Steeneveld Matthijs
Published: December 2023

Sie schaffen es gerade so, die vielen Dinge auf der To-do-Liste zu erledigen, fühlen sich aber ständig gestresst? Sie würden eigentlich gerne dieses eine Projekt verfolgen, machen aber doch einen Rückzieher, weil Sie es sich nicht zutrauen? Ein Vorhaben hat nicht geklappt und nun grübeln Sie darüber nach, um der Sache auf den Grund zu gehen? Schnelle, „bequeme“ Lösungsstrategien beseitigen die Probleme zwar meistens kurzfristig, sind aber langfristig oft nicht effektiv. Wie aber schaffen wir es, grundsätzlich besser mit Stress, Herausforderungen und Rückschlägen umzugehen?
Dieses Buch stellt auf Grundlage der Positiven Psychologie vier Eigenschaften vor, die Ihnen dabei helfen: Optimismus, Hoffnung, Resilienz und Selbstvertrauen. Der Autor beschreibt, was diese positiven Eigenschaften ausmacht und was sie bewirken können. Viele praktische Übungen und Beispiele unterstützen Sie dabei, diese Ressourcen – Ihr „psychologisches Kapital“ – bei sich zu stärken. Das ermöglicht Ihnen, sich selbst weiterzuentwickeln, sodass Sie Probleme leichter anpacken und das Ruder wieder selbst in die Hand nehmen können.
Efficient gene editing in induced pluripotent stem cells enabled by an inducible adenine base editor with tunable expression
Authors: Nandy Krittika , Babu Dinesh , Rani Sonam , Joshi Gaurav , Ijee Smitha , George Anila , Palani Dhavapriya , Premkumar Chitra , Rajesh Praveena , Vijayanand S. , David Ernest , Murugesan Mohankumar , Velayudhan Shaji R.
Published: December 2023

The preferred method for disease modeling using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) is to generate isogenic cell lines by correcting or introducing pathogenic mutations. Base editing enables the precise installation of point mutations at specific genomic locations without the need for deleterious double-strand breaks used in the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing methods. We created a bulk population of iPSCs that homogeneously express ABE8e adenine base editor enzyme under a doxycycline-inducible expression system at the AAVS1 safe harbor locus. These cells enabled fast, efficient and inducible gene editing at targeted genomic regions, eliminating the need for single-cell cloning and screening to identify those with homozygous mutations. We could achieve multiplex genomic editing by creating homozygous mutations in very high efficiencies at four independent genomic loci simultaneously in AAVS1-iABE8e iPSCs, which is highly challenging with previously described methods. The inducible ABE8e expression system allows editing of the genes of interest within a specific time window, enabling temporal control of gene editing to study the cell or lineage-specific functions of genes and their molecular pathways. In summary, the inducible ABE8e system provides a fast, efficient and versatile gene-editing tool for disease modeling and functional genomic studies.
Research on cross regional emergency material scheduling algorithm based on seed optimization algorithm
Authors: Li Jinbao , Cui Lichong , Chu Huayu , Su Lei , Wang Junsheng
Published: December 2023

In order to improve the response capability of cross regional emergency material scheduling (CREMS), a CREMS algorithm based on seed optimization algorithm is proposed. Construct a segmented regional grid distribution model structure for CREMS, use a grid matching algorithm based on block link distribution to construct the optimization objective function during the emergency material scheduling process, use variable neighborhood search technology to solve the diversity problem of cluster optimization in CREMS, and combine seed optimization algorithms for combination control and recursive analysis in the emergency material scheduling process. Based on the combination of deep learning and reinforcement learning, the optimal route and configuration scheme design for CREMS process is achieved. The simulation results show that this method has better active configuration capability, better path optimization capability and stronger spatial regional planning capability for CREMS.
Association analysis of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A (VEGF-A) polymorphism in rheumatoid arthritis using computational approaches
Authors: Ahmed Iraj , John Peter , Bhatti Attya
Published: December 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), is marked by joint inflammation leading to pannus formation which results in cartilage destruction promoting bone erosion. The pathological hallmark of RA includes synovial hyperplasia and synovial angiogenesis. Active tissue neovascularization is observed in RA. Vascular endothelial Growth factor A (VEGFA), an endothelial cell-specific proangiogenic molecule is triggered by hypoxic cells and its levels are upregulated in RA. The aim of this study was to investigate functional and pathogenic VEGFA variants and to identify the impact of point mutation in VEGFA’s interaction with VEGFR2 and how these polymorphisms affect the susceptibility and severity of RA. We investigated impact of these point mutations on the stability of VEGFA using various computational tools. These mutations were further identified by conservational profile as they are highly involved as structural and functional mutations. Furthermore, these selected variants were modelled and docked against targeted domain regions IGD2 and IGD3 of VEGFR2. Further molecular dynamic simulations were performed using Gromacs. Out of 168 nsSNPS, 19 were highlighted as highly pathogenic using insilico prediction tools. InterPro and ConSurf revealed domains and conserved variants respectively. After stability analysis, we concluded that almost all the mutations were responsible for decreasing the protein stability. HOPE predicted that all the selected damaging nsSNPs were present in the domain which is essential for the functioning of VEGFA protein. Constructed Ramachandran plot and ERRAT validated the quality of all the models. Based on the interactions predicted by STRING database, we performed Protein–Protein docking between VEGFA and VEGFR2. We found few conserved interactions and new polar contacts among wild-type and mutants with VEGFR2. From the simulations, we concluded that mutant R108Q was the most stabilizing mutant among all others whereas R82Q, C86Y, and R108W complexed with VEGFR2 were comparatively less stabilizing as compared to the wild type. This study provides insight into pathogenic nsSNPs that can affect VEGFA protein structure and function. These high-risk variants must be taken into consideration for genetic screening of patients suffering from RA.
Molecular mechanism of CCDC106 regulating the p53-Mdm2/MdmX signaling axis
Authors: Zhou Ting , Ke Zhiqiang , Ma Qianqian , Xiang Jiani , Gao Meng , Huang Yongqi , Cheng Xiyao , Su Zhengding
Published: December 2023

The tumor suppressor p53 (p53) is regulated by murine double minute 2 (Mdm2) and its homologous MdmX in maintaining the basal level of p53. Overexpressed Mdm2/MdmX inhibits cellular p53 activity, which is highly relevant to cancer occurrence. Coiled-coil domain-containing protein 106 (CCDC106) has been identified as a p53-interacting partner. However, the molecular mechanism of the p53/Mdm2/MdmX/CCDC106 interactions is still elusive. Here, we show that CCDC106 functions as a signaling regulator of the p53-Mdm2/MdmX axis. We identified that CCDC106 directly interacts with the p53 transactivation domain by competing with Mdm2 and MdmX. CCDC106 overexpression downregulates the cellular level of p53 and Mdm2/MdmX, and decreased p53 reversibly downregulates the cellular level of CCDC106. Our work provides a molecular mechanism by which CCDC106 regulates the cellular levels of p53 and Mdm2/MdmX.
Dopamine precursor depletion affects performance and confidence judgements when events are timed from an explicit, but not an implicit onset
Authors: Jovanovic Ljubica , Chassignolle Morgane , Schmidt-Mutter Catherine , Behr Guillaume , Coull Jennifer T. , Giersch Anne
Published: December 2023

Dopamine affects processing of temporal information, but most previous work has tested its role in prospective tasks, where participants know in advance when the event to be timed starts. However, we are often exposed to events whose onset we do not know in advance. We can evaluate their duration after they have elapsed, but mechanisms underlying this ability are still elusive. Here we contrasted effects of acute phenylalanine and tyrosine depletion (APTD) on both forms of timing in healthy volunteers, in a within-subject, placebo-controlled design. Participants were presented with a disc moving around a circular path and asked to reproduce the duration of one full revolution and to judge their confidence in performance. The onset of the revolution was either known in advance (explicit onset) or revealed only at the end of the trial (implicit onset). We found that APTD shortened reproduced durations in the explicit onset task but had no effect on temporal performance in the implicit onset task. This dissociation is corroborated by effects of APTD on confidence judgements in the explicit task only. Our findings suggest that dopamine has a specific role in prospective encoding of temporal intervals, rather than the processing of temporal information in general.
An expanded RT-PCR melting temperature coding assay to rapidly identify all known SARS-CoV-2 variants and sub-variants of concern
Authors: Banada Padmapriya P. , Green Raquel , Streck Deanna , Kurvathi Rohini , Reiss Robert , Banik Sukalyani , Daivaa Naranjargal , Montalvan Ibsen , Jones Robert , Marras Salvatore A. E. , Chakravorty Soumitesh , Alland David
Published: December 2023

The continued emergence of vaccine-resistant SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOC) requires specific identification of each VOC as it arises. Here, we report an expanded version of our previously described sloppy molecular beacon (SMB) melting temperature (Tm) signature-based assay for VOCs, now modified to include detection of Delta (B.1.617.2) and Omicron (B.1.1.529) sub-variants. The SMB-VOC assay targets the signature codons 501, 484 and 452 in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein which we show can specifically detect and differentiate all known VOCs including the Omicron subvariants (BA.1, BA.2, BA.2.12.1, BA.4/BA.5). The limit of detection (LOD) of the assay was 20, 22 and 36 genomic equivalents (GE) per reaction with the Delta, Omicron BA.1 and BA.2 respectively. Clinical validation of the 3-codon assay in the LC480 instrument showed the assay detected 94% (81/86) of the specimens as WT or VOCs and 6% (5/86) of the tests producing indeterminate results compared to sequencing. Sanger sequencing also failed for four samples. None of the specimens were incorrectly identified as WT or as a different VOC by our assay. Thus, excluding specimens with indeterminant results, the assay was 100% sensitive and 100% specific compared to Sanger sequencing for variant identification. This new assay concept can be easily expanded to add newer variants and can serve as a robust diagnostic tool for selecting appropriate monoclonal antibody therapy and rapid VOC surveillance.
Multiphase CT angiography perfusion maps for predicting target mismatch and ischemic lesion volumes
Authors: Chung Kevin J. , Pandey Sachin K. , Khaw Alexander V. , Lee Ting-Yim
Published: December 2023

The complexity of CT perfusion (CTP) acquisition protocols may limit the availability of target mismatch assessment at resource-limited hospitals. We compared CTP mismatch with a mismatch surrogate generated from a simplified dynamic imaging sequence comprising widely available non-contrast CT (NCCT) and multiphase CT angiography (mCTA). Consecutive patients with anterior circulation acute ischemic stroke who received NCCT, mCTA, and CTP were retrospectively included in this study. An mCTA-perfusion (mCTA-P) dynamic series was formed by co-registering NCCT and mCTA. We simulated an ideal mCTA-P study by down-sampling CTP (dCTP) dynamic images according to mCTA timing. Ischemic core and penumbra volumes were estimated by cerebral blood flow and Tmax thresholding, respectively, on perfusion maps calculated independently for CTP, dCTP, and mCTA-P by deconvolution. Concordance in target mismatch (core < 70 ml, penumbra ≥ 15 ml, mismatch ratio ≥ 1.8) determination by dCTP and mCTA-P versus CTP was assessed. Of sixty-one included patients, forty-six had a CTP target mismatch. Concordance with CTP profiles was 90% and 82% for dCTP and mCTA-P, respectively. Lower mCTA-P concordance was likely from differences in collimation width between NCCT and mCTA, which worsened perfusion map quality due to a CT number shift at mCTA. Moderate diagnostic agreement between CTP and mCTA-P was found and may improve with optimal mCTA scan parameter selection as simulated by dCTP. mCTA-P may be a pragmatic alternative where CTP is unavailable or the risks of additional radiation dose, contrast injections, and treatment delays outweigh the potential benefit of a separate CTP scan.
Comparing SARS-CoV-2 antigen-detection rapid diagnostic tests for COVID-19 self-testing/self-sampling with molecular and professional-use tests: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Katzenschlager Stephan , Brümmer Lukas E. , Schmitz Stephani , Tolle Hannah , Manten Katharina , Gaeddert Mary , Erdmann Christian , Lindner Andreas , Tobian Frank , Grilli Maurizio , Pollock Nira R. , Macé Aurélien , Erkosar Berra , Carmona Sergio , Ongarello Stefano , Johnson Cheryl C. , Sacks Jilian A. , Denkinger Claudia M. , Yerlikaya Seda
Published: December 2023

Self-testing is an effective tool to bridge the testing gap for several infectious diseases; however, its performance in detecting SARS-CoV-2 using antigen-detection rapid diagnostic tests (Ag-RDTs) has not been systematically reviewed. This study aimed to inform WHO guidelines by evaluating the accuracy of COVID-19 self-testing and self-sampling coupled with professional Ag-RDT conduct and interpretation. Articles on this topic were searched until November 7th, 2022. Concordance between self-testing/self-sampling and fully professional-use Ag-RDTs was assessed using Cohen’s kappa. Bivariate meta-analysis yielded pooled performance estimates. Quality and certainty of evidence were evaluated using QUADAS-2 and GRADE tools. Among 43 studies included, twelve reported on self-testing, and 31 assessed self-sampling only. Around 49.6% showed low risk of bias. Overall concordance with professional-use Ag-RDTs was high (kappa 0.91 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.88–0.94]). Comparing self-testing/self-sampling to molecular testing, the pooled sensitivity and specificity were 70.5% (95% CI 64.3–76.0) and 99.4% (95% CI 99.1–99.6), respectively. Higher sensitivity (i.e., 93.6% [95% CI 90.4–96.8] for Ct < 25) was estimated in subgroups with higher viral loads using Ct values as a proxy. Despite high heterogeneity among studies, COVID-19 self-testing/self-sampling exhibits high concordance with professional-use Ag-RDTs. This suggests that self-testing/self-sampling can be offered as part of COVID-19 testing strategies.

Trial registration: PROSPERO: CRD42021250706.
Machine learning model for predicting immediate postoperative desaturation using spirometry signal data
Authors: Shin Youmin , Kim Yoon Jung , Jin Juseong , Lee Seung-Bo , Kim Hee-Soo , Kim Young-Gon
Published: December 2023

Postoperative desaturation is a common post-surgery pulmonary complication. The real-time prediction of postoperative desaturation can become a preventive measure, and real-time changes in spirometry data can provide valuable information on respiratory mechanics. However, there is a lack of related research, specifically on using spirometry signals as inputs to machine learning (ML) models. We developed an ML model and postoperative desaturation prediction index (DPI) by analyzing intraoperative spirometry signals in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery. We analyzed spirometry data from patients who underwent laparoscopic, robot-assisted gynecologic, or urologic surgery, identifying postoperative desaturation as a peripheral arterial oxygen saturation level below 95%, despite facial oxygen mask usage. We fitted the ML model on two separate datasets collected during different periods. (Datasets A and B). Dataset A (Normal 133, Desaturation 74) was used for the entire experimental process, including ML model fitting, statistical analysis, and DPI determination. Dataset B (Normal 20, Desaturation 4) was only used for verify the ML model and DPI. Four feature categories—signal property, inter-/intra-position correlation, peak value/interval variability, and demographics—were incorporated into the ML models via filter and wrapper feature selection methods. In experiments, the ML model achieved an adequate predictive capacity for postoperative desaturation, and the performance of the DPI was unbiased.
Molecular characterization of a galactomannan extracted from Tara (Caesalpinia spinosa) seeds
Authors: Ibieta Gabriela , Bustos Atma-Sol , Ortiz-Sempértegui Jimena , Linares-Pastén Javier A. , Peñarrieta J. Mauricio
Published: December 2023

Tara gum (TG) is a polysaccharide extracted from the seeds of a South American tree called Tara (Caesalpinia spinosa). TG is a galactomannan with many applications in the food industry, mainly as an emulsifier and stabilizer agent. In addition, it is also used in the paper and cosmetic industries. In the present study, we performed a molecular characterization based on chemical composition and physicochemical properties to understand the properties behind TG applications. TG was extracted and purified from Tara seeds distributed in different ecoregions of Bolivia. The monosaccharide composition analysis was determined by high-performance anion-exchange chromatography/pulsed amperometric detection (HPAEC-PAD). At the same time, their molecular characteristics, such as molar mass, root-mean-square radius, hydrodynamic radius, conformation, and densities, were studied by asymmetrical flow field-flow fractionation coupled to multi-angle light scattering refractive index (AF4-MALS-dRI), also the specific refractive index increment (dn/dc) was determined for the first time using AF4 for TG. The results revealed that the gum samples are galactomannans composed of mannose (Man) and galactose (Gal) in a ratio of 3.37 (Man/Gal), with an average molar mass range from 2.460 × 107 to 3.699 × 107 Da, distributed in a single population. The root-mean-square radius range from 260.4 to 281.6 nm, and dn/dc is 0.1454. The Kratky plots based on 14 scattering angles indicated that the conformation of all samples corresponds to random coil monodisperse, while their gyration radius/hydrodynamic radius ratio (ρ) is high. All these results suggest that the chains have a low branched density, consistent with the Gal/Man composition. To the best of our knowledge, we report for the first time an integrated physicochemical study of TG relevant to developing emulsifier and stabilizer formulations.
Higher gamma-glutamyl transferase levels are associated with an increased risk of incident systemic sclerosis: a nationwide population-based study
Authors: Kwon Oh Chan , Han Kyungdo , Park Min-Chan
Published: December 2023

Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) is known to promote oxidative stress. As oxidative stress is a key component in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc), we investigated whether GGT levels are associated with the risk of incident SSc. A cohort of individuals without SSc who underwent national health examination in 2009 were extracted from the Korean National Health Insurance Service database. The incidence rate of SSc during the observation period, between 2009 and 2019, was estimated. GGT levels measured in 2009 were categorized into quartiles (Q1 [lowest], Q2, Q3, and Q4 [highest]). Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the risk of incident SSc according to the quartiles of GGT, using Q1 as the reference. A total of 6,091,788 individuals were included. Incidence rate of SSc was 1.16 per 100,000 person-years over a mean observation period of 9.2 years. After adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, economic income, smoking status, alcohol consumption, physical activity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and chronic kidney disease, higher quartiles of GGT levels were significantly associated with a higher risk of incident SSc (Q4: adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.807, 95% confidence interval CI 1.446–2.259; Q3: aHR 1.221, 95% CI 0.971–1.536; and Q2: aHR 1.034, 95% CI 0.807–1.324; p for trend < 0.001). Higher GGT levels were associated with a higher risk of incident SSc. These findings could lead to a closer monitoring for high risk individuals and an earlier diagnosis and treatment.
Validating the association of Oxford classification and renal function deterioration among Taiwanese individuals with Immunoglobulin A nephropathy
Authors: Chen Cheng-Hsu , Wu Ming-Ju , Tsai Shang-Feng
Published: December 2023

Validation of the Oxford classification (MEST and MEST-C) for Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) in the Taiwanese population is lacking. Our study aimed to validate this classification and assess individual lesion impact. We conducted a retrospective cohort study at Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan (Jan 2011–Jul 2023). Composite renal outcomes were evaluated using clinical conditions and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). We used Kaplan–Meier, univariable/multivariable logistic regression and ROC curves. Subgroup analysis considered eGFR < or ≥ 30.0 ml/min/1.73 m2. In 366 renal biopsies, serum creatinine was 1.34 mg/dl, eGFR 53.8 ml/min/1.73 m2, urine protein–creatinine ratio 1159 mg/g. T1/T2 lesions had lowest baseline eGFR (39.6/11.5 ml/min/1.73 m2), correlating with poorest renal survival (median survival 54.7/34.4 months). Univariable analysis linked all individual variables to worse renal outcomes. Multivariable analysis (MEST/MEST-C) showed only T1/T2 linked to worse outcomes. T score had highest predictive power (AUC 0.728, sensitivity 60.2%, specificity 83.6%), with MEST having high AUC (0.758). No extra predictive power was seen transitioning MEST to MEST-C. Subgroup analysis (eGFR < 30.0 ml/min/1.73 m2) associated C1 with improved renal outcomes (odds ratio 0.14, 95% CI 0.03–0.65). T lesion correlated with worse outcomes across subgroups. The T lesion consistently correlated with worse renal outcomes across all groups and baseline statuses. Integrating the C lesion into the transition from MEST to MEST-C did not enhance predictive power. Importantly, the C1 lesion was linked to improved renal outcomes in the eGFR < 30.0 ml/min/1.73 m2 subgroup, likely due to treatment effects.
Comprehensive relationship between disease activity indices, mTSS, and mHAQ and physical function evaluation and QOL in females with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Nagafusa Tetsuyuki , Mizushima Takashi , Suzuki Motohiro , Yamauchi Katsuya
Published: December 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) causes significant physical disability. We comprehensively investigated the relationship between RA disease activity (Disease Activity Score 28-C-reactive protein [DAS28-CRP], Simplified Disease Activity Index [SDAI], and Clinical Disease Activity Index [CDAI]), physical function (10-Meter Walk Test [10 MWT], Timed Up and Go test [TUG], Functional Reach Test [FRT], and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand [DASH]), and quality of life (QOL) (Short-Form 36 [SF-36®]). We also investigated the relationship between van der Heijde’s modified Total Sharp Score (mTSS), modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (mHAQ), and physical function and QOL assessments. Among 35 female patients with RA, DAS28-CRP correlated solely with DASH (r = 0.376), while SDAI and CDAI did not correlate with physical function. The mTSS-hand roentgenographic evaluation correlated with TUG (r = 0.359), FRT (r = − 0.415), and DASH (r = 0.533) among physical function assessments. The mHAQ correlated with 10 MWT (r = 0.347), TUG (r = 0.356), FRT (r = − 0.420), and DASH (r = 0.646). DAS28-CRP correlated with six of the eight subscales of SF-36®, and mTSS and mHAQ correlated with only one subscale. RA disease activity assessments may not reflect all physical functions and QOL domains of female patients with RA. Evaluating physical function and QOL in female patients with RA is essential.
Global visual attention SPAN in different video game genres
Authors: Argilés Marc , González-Fortuny Xavier , Fonts Elisabet , Sunyer-Grau Bernat
Published: December 2023

Video games, specifically action video games, have been demonstrated to be a useful tool in improving certain visual aspects in the general population. Visual attention span, the ability to simultaneously process multiple distinct visual elements during a single fixation, has been shown to improve among action video game players. The goal of this study was to verify that visual attention span is better not only in action video games, but also in other video game genres such as sports simulators or role-playing games. A total of 41 participants, aged 18 to 40 years old, were asked about the type of video games they were playing, name and genre, and the frequency of play. Visual attention span was assessed in all participants. Participants were divided into 4 groups according to the genre of video game they played. The total percentage of letter identification in the visual attention span was not significantly different between groups. A significant difference was found in the sixth position letter, and the right hemifield performance between groups, especially in sports simulators and action video game participants who showed a better performance. The action video game group showed a significant correlation between visual attention span performance and weekly hours played. Playing regularly different genres other than action video games can contribute to raise visual attention resources.
Using the Blackburne-Peel index to measure the patellar height on magnetic resonance images
Authors: Kızılgöz Volkan
Published: December 2023

To reveal the normal values of patellar height measurements using the Blackburne-Peel index on magnetic resonance (MR) images and to show the gender and age differences regarding this measurement technique. This retrospective cross-sectional study investigated 148 knee MR images, and those images were re-evaluated to find out the normal values of patellar height using the Blackburne-Peel index (BPI). An adapted measurement technique of this index was applied to MR images. The study group was analyzed regarding the sex and age differences, correlation with age was investigated, and all descriptive data were presented. Independent Samples T-test, Kruskal–Wallis variance analysis, and Spearman’s Rho correlation test was applied to calculate the results. The mean value was 0.80 ± 0.09 for the total of patients. The measurements regarding the height of the inferior edge of the patella articular surface and the length of the patella articular surface indicated a significant difference between females and males (p < 0.001 for both measurements). The descriptive data obtained from this study revealed the mean values of the whole study group, different sexes, and age groups separately. Additional studies are needed for adapting BPI on MR images and verifying the normal values of the population.