bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weighing the Baghdādī Raṭl: A Metrological Muddle
Authors: Varisco Daniel Martin
Published: January 2023

This study addresses a metrological muddle: attempts to determine the metrical equivalence of the Baghdādī raṭl, a measure for coins, commerce, and religious requirements during the Abbasid and Mamluk eras. Western writers Sauvaire and Hinz interpreted the measure of the widespread Baghdādī raṭl by determining a metric equivalent around three grams for the building block of the silver dirham weight. Islamic scholars, however, proposed three different dirham amounts for this raṭl and noted that there were two different ways of determining the standard ratio of the dirham to the dinar. These scholars applied the Baghdādī raṭl of their day to determine the weights of two earlier measures, the ṣāʿ and the mudd from the time of the Prophet Muḥammad. The study of Islamic era metrology has received little critical attention, apart from the field of numismatics, since the work of Walther Hinz, last updated in 1970. I provide a prolegomenon for the need to reread both earlier Muslim authors and the seminal works of Don Vasquez Queipo, Henri Sauvaire and others. Suggestions for approaching the interpretation of Islamic era weights and measures are provided.
Impact of land use and land cover on urban ecosystem service value in Chandigarh, India: a GIS-based analysis
Authors: Sharma Sheenu , Hussain Sabir , Singh Anand Narain
Published: January 2023

Assessing the effects of land use and land cover (LULC) on ecosystem service values (ESVs) is critical for public understanding and policymaking. This study evaluated the impacts of LULC dynamics on ESVs in Chandigarh city of India. The assessment of LULC changes was performed by analyzing the satellite imagery of the study area for the years 1990 and 2020 with different band combinations in ArcGIS (10.8 version software). In addition, we analyzed ecosystem services changes which were based on the LULC classes of the study area. Five LULC classes were identified in the present study area (Water bodies, forest and vegetation, built-up, agriculture and shrubland and open spaces). The results demonstrated (from 1990 to 2020) that the forest cover and agricultural areas decreased by 4.19% and 37.01%, respectively, whereas the built-up area substantially increased by 104.61%. Overall, ESV decreased by 2.54% from 1990 to 2020 due to rapid urbanization. The combination of LULC and ecosystem services valuation can increase our understanding of different issues of an urban ecosystem. Hence, we recommend the integration of LULC and ecosystem services valuation as a tool that could provide information to policymakers, urban planners and land managers for sustainable use in future.
Walter Pater and Non-Darwinian Science
Authors: Kistler Jordan
Published: January 2023

Walter Pater’s engagement with nineteenth-century science has long been acknowledged, but critics have often characterized it in negative terms. This essay demonstrates that while Pater viewed Darwinian evolutionary theory negatively, insisting that it ‘stealthily withdraws the apparently solid earth itself from beneath one’s feet’ (Plato and Platonism, 1893), he embraced non-Darwinian theories of development. Peter J. Bowler has argued that an ‘eclipse of Darwinism’ or ‘non-Darwinian revolution’ took place in the second half of the nineteenth century, in which there was widespread public acceptance of the transmutation of species but not of the mechanism of adaptation and natural selection proposed by Darwin. Instead, as Bowler demonstrates, the prevailing understanding of evolution was of a non-Darwinian variety that emphasized form over function and design over random chance. I suggest that within these theories, such as the transcendental morphology propounded by Richard Owen, Pater finds a physical manifestation of his own particular philosophic blend of materialism and idealism. Viewed through this lens, many of Pater’s theories in art and philosophy become clearer, such as his belief in the ‘limitations’ of sculpture, discussed in Studies in the History of the Renaissance. Instead of viewing this as a denigration of sculpture as the art form furthest from the ideal, this essay demonstrates that Pater viewed sculpture in terms of the archetype of transcendental morphology: something both material and immaterial, simple and yet also ideal. Far from retreating from the spectre of contemporary science, as many critics suggest Pater does, Pater views science and the humanities as complementary disciplines, or homologues, sharing an underlying structure.
OsTKPR2 is part of a sporopollenin-producing metabolon required for exine formation in rice
Authors: Yang Huiting , Liu Feng , Wang Wang , Rui Qingchen , Li Ge , Tan Xiaoyun , Ye Jie , Shen Haodong , Liu Yanping , Liu Wenlong , Tang Rong , Hu Jingru , Liu Kai , Zhang Yunhui , Zhan Huadong , Wang Yihua , Bao Yiqun
Published: January 2023

The sporopollenin polymer is a major component of the pollen exine. Fatty acid derivatives synthesized in the tapetum are among the precursors of sporopollenin. Progress has been made to understand sporopollenin metabolism in rice; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. We found that OsTKPR2 and OsTKPR1 share a similar expression pattern, and their coding proteins have a similar subcellular localization and enzyme activities towards reduced tetraketide α-pyrone and hydroxylated tetraketide α-pyrone. Unexpectedly, OsTKPR1pro:OsTKPR2-eGFP could not rescue the phenotype of ostkpr1-4. Three independent ostkpr2 mutant lines generated by CRISPR/Cas9 displayed reduced male fertility to various extents which were correlated with the severity of gene disruptions. Notably, the anther cuticle, Ubisch bodies, and pollen development were affected in the ostkpr2-1 mutant, where a thinner pollen exine was noticed. OsTKPR1 and OsTKPR2 were integrated into a metabolon including OsACOS12 and OsPKS2, which resulted in a significant increased enzymatic efficiency when both OsTKPR1 and OsTKPR2 were present, indicating the mutual dependence of OsTKPR2 and OsTKPR1 for their full biochemical activities. Thus, our results demonstrated that OsTKPR2 is required for anther and pollen development where an OsTKPR2-containing metabolon is functional during rice sporopollenin synthesis. Furthermore, the cooperation and possible functional divergence between OsTKPR2 and OsTKPR1 is also discussed.
Association between Serum α-Klotho Levels and Behçet Disease
Authors: Jafari Nakhjavani Mohammad Reza , Ghorbanihaghjo Amir , Malek Mahdavi Aida , Nemati Negin , Rashtchizadeh Nadereh , Abedi Azar Sima , Khabbazi Alireza
Published: January 2023

Background

Endothelial dysfunction (ED) has a well-known role in promoting vascular inflammation in Behçet disease (BD). α-klotho is involved in regulation of endothelial function, and its reduction has been reported to be associated with ED. 

Objective

To assess serum α-klotho in patients with BD, compared with healthy control individuals.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study, 55 patients with BD and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were enrolled, and their serum levels of α-klotho were measured.

Results

Common clinical symptoms in patients with BD were oral aphthous ulcers, uveitis, and genital ulcers. Median (IQR) serum α-klotho levels in the BD and control groups were 0.30 (0.20–0.70) and 1.00 (0.70–2.52) ng/mL, respectively. The difference was statistically significant (P = .005). No significant correlation was observed between serum α-klotho and age (r = 0.194; P = .14). Serum α-klotho levels in patients with uveitis were significantly lower.

Conclusion

α-klotho may have a role in the pathogenesis of ED and is a potential biomarker for uveitis in BD.
Increases in CLIA-Waived Testing Sites Since the Start of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Xia Yang , Anderson Nancy
Published: January 2023

The number of testing sites receiving their first Certificate of Waiver (CoW) under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) increased significantly after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. We compared the first-time CoWs in 2020–2021 to those in 2018–2019. The total number of first-time CoWs during 2020–2021 was more than twice what it was in 2018–2019, corresponding to population testing needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in assisted living facility, pharmacy, physician office, and school/student health service settings. This study highlighted the need to strengthen clinical testing strategies to be better prepared for future public health emergencies.
Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness and Test-Negative Study Design Within the Department of Defense
Authors: Sayers David R , Iskander John K
Published: January 2023

Test-negative observational studies are routinely used to assess vaccine effectiveness. This test method consistently shows lower annual vaccine effectiveness in the highly vaccinated U.S. military compared to the general population. Incorporating other test designs and broader impact measures may better estimate influenza vaccine benefits in highly vaccinated groups.
Reading the tea leaves in the Mbh–M*,sph and Mbh–Re,sph diagrams: dry and gaseous mergers with remnant angular momentum
Authors: Graham Alister W , Sahu Nandini
Published: January 2023

We recently revealed that bulges and elliptical galaxies broadly define distinct, superlinear relations in the (black hole mass, Mbh)–(spheroid stellar mass, M*,sph) diagram or Mbh−M*,sph diagram, with the order-of-magnitude lower Mbh/M*,sph ratios in the elliptical galaxies due to major (disc-destroying, elliptical-building) dry mergers. Here, we present a more nuanced picture. Galaxy mergers, in which the net orbital angular momentum does not cancel, can lead to systems with a rotating disc. This situation can occur with either wet (gas-rich) mergers involving one or two spiral galaxies, e.g. NGC 5128, or dry (relatively gas-poor) collisions involving one or two lenticular galaxies, e.g. NGC 5813. The spheroid and disc masses of the progenitor galaxies and merger remnant dictate the shift in the Mbh−M*,sph and Mbh−Re,sph diagrams. We show how this explains the (previously excluded merger remnant) Sérsic S0 galaxies near the bottom of the elliptical sequence and core-Sérsic S0 galaxies at the top of the bulge sequence, neither of which are faded spiral galaxies. Different evolutionary pathways in the scaling diagrams are discussed. We also introduce two ellicular (ES) galaxy types, explore the location of brightest cluster galaxies and stripped ‘compact elliptical’ galaxies in the Mbh−M*,sph diagram, and present a new merger-built Mbh−M*,sph relation which may prove helpful for studies of nanohertz gravitational waves. This work effectively brings into the fold many systems previously considered outliers with either overly massive or undermassive black holes relative to the near-linear Mbh−M*,sph ‘red sequence’ patched together with select bulges and elliptical galaxies.
Use of time dependent data in Bayesian global 21-cm foreground and signal modelling
Authors: Anstey Dominic , de Lera Acedo Eloy , Handley Will
Published: January 2023

Global 21-cm cosmology aims to investigate the cosmic dawn and epoch of reionization by measuring the sky averaged H i absorption signal, which requires, accurate modelling of, or correction for, the bright radio foregrounds and distortions arising from chromaticity of the antenna beam. We investigate the effect of improving foreground modelling by fitting data sets from many observation times simultaneously in a single Bayesian analysis, fitting for the same parameter set by performing these fits on simulated data. We find that for a hexagonal dipole antenna, this simultaneous fitting produces a significant improvement in the accuracy of the recovered 21-cm signal, relative to fitting a time average of the data. Furthermore, the recovered models of the foreground are also seen to become more accurate by up to a factor of ∼2–3 relative to time averaged fitting. For a less chromatic log spiral antenna, no significant improvement in signal recovery was found by this process. However, the modelling of the foregrounds was still significantly improved. We also investigate extending this technique to fit multiple data sets from different antennas simultaneously for the same parameters. This is also found to improve both 21-cm signal and foreground modelling, to a higher degree than fitting data set from multiple times from the same antenna.
A rapid optical and X-ray timing study of the neutron star X-ray binary Swift J1858.6−0814
Authors: Shahbaz T , Paice J A , Rajwade K M , Veledina A , Gandhi P , Dhillon V S , Marsh T R , Littlefair S , Kennedy M R , Breton R P , Clark. C J
Published: January 2023

We present a rapid timing analysis of optical (HiPERCAM and ULTRACAM) and X-ray (NICER) observations of the X-ray transient Swift J1858.6−0814 during 2018 and 2019. The optical light curves show relatively slow, large amplitude (∼1 mag in gs) ‘blue’ flares (i.e. stronger at shorter wavelengths) on time-scales of ∼minutes as well as fast, small amplitude (∼0.1 mag in gs) ‘red’ flares (i.e. stronger at longer wavelengths) on time-scales of ∼seconds. The ‘blue’ and ‘red’ flares are consistent with X-ray reprocessing and optically thin synchrotron emission, respectively, similar to what is observed in other X-ray binaries. The simultaneous optical versus soft- and hard-band X-ray light curves show time- and energy-dependent correlations. The 2019 March 4 and parts of the June data show a nearly symmetric positive cross-correlations (CCFs) at positive lags consistent with simple X-ray disc reprocessing. The soft- and hard-band CCFs are similar and can be reproduced if disc reprocessing dominates in the optical and one component (disc or synchrotron Comptonization) dominates both the soft and hard X-rays. A part of the 2019 June data shows a very different CCFs. The observed positive correlation at negative lag in the soft band can be reproduced if the optical synchrotron emission is correlated with the hot flow X-ray emission. The observed timing properties are in qualitative agreement with the hybrid inner hot accretion flow model, where the relative role of the different X-ray and optical components that vary during the course of the outburst, as well as on shorter time-scales, govern the shape of the optical/X-ray CCFs.
Preconception paternal alcohol exposure decreases IVF embryo survival and pregnancy success rates in a mouse model
Authors: Roach Alexis N , Zimmel Katherine N , Thomas Kara N , Basel Alison , Bhadsavle Sanat S , Golding Michael C
Published: January 2023

Increasingly, couples struggling with fertility turn to assisted reproductive techniques, including IVF, to have children. Despite the demonstrated influence of periconception male health and lifestyle choices on offspring development, studies examining IVF success rates and child health outcomes remain exclusively focused on maternal factors. Using a physiologically relevant mouse model, we tested the hypothesis that chronic paternal preconception alcohol intake adversely affects IVF success and negatively impacts IVF offspring fetoplacental growth. Using a voluntary, binge-like mouse model, we exposed sexually mature C57BL/6J males to three preconception treatments (0% (Control), 6% EtOH or 10% EtOH) for 6 weeks, isolated and cryopreserved caudal sperm from treated males, and then used these samples to fertilize oocytes before assessing IVF embryo developmental outcomes. We found that preconception paternal alcohol use reduced IVF embryo survival and pregnancy success rates in a dose-dependent manner, with the pregnancy success rate of the 10% EtOH treatment falling to half those of the Controls. Mechanistically, we found that preconception paternal alcohol exposure disrupts embryonic gene expression, including Fgf4 and Egfr, two critical regulators of trophectoderm stem cell growth and placental patterning, with lasting impacts on the histological organization of the late-term placenta. The changes in placental histoarchitecture were accompanied by altered regulation of pathways controlling mitochondrial function, oxidative phosphorylation and some imprinted genes. Our studies indicate that male alcohol use may significantly impede IVF success rates, increasing the couple’s financial burden and emotional stress, and highlights the need to expand prepregnancy messaging to emphasize the reproductive dangers of alcohol use by both parents.
Postoperative Inflammation and Fever After Elective Aortic Valve and Aortic Root Replacement: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Keijmel Stephan P , Zwartkruis Iris M M , Jongenotter Jochem , Geuzebroek Guillaume S C , Kouijzer Ilse J E
Published: January 2023

Background

Fever after cardiac surgery is common. More knowledge of postoperative fever could lead to better patient selection for diagnostic workup and empirical antibiotic treatment. We aimed to analyze the postoperative course of inflammation and fever after elective aortic valve and aortic root replacement.

Methods

In a retrospective single-center cohort study, we included 3 groups of patients after elective cardiac surgery: aortic root with aortic valve replacement (Bentall procedure, from 2014 to 2021), valve-sparing root replacement (VSRR, from 2014 to 2021), and isolated surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR, from 2018 to 2021). Exclusion criteria were age <18 years, cardiac surgery other than described, use of deep-hypothermic circulatory arrest, reoperations, and preexisting infections. Primary outcome measure was the number of patients per group with postoperative fever (≥38°C). Secondary outcome measures were the percentage of patients per group with infections and outcome.

Results

Among 307 patients included (76 Bentall, 40 VSRR, 191 SAVR), 71% had postoperative fever. Fever occurred significantly more often in the Bentall (84%) and VSRR group (83%) compared with patients after SAVR (64%, P = .001). Seventeen patients had fever due to infection versus 202 with diagnoses of postoperative inflammation. In case of infection, fever was significantly higher (38.8°C vs 38.4°C, P = .03), and both the number of days with fever and hospital admission duration were significantly longer.

Conclusions

Postoperative fever is more often observed after Bentall procedure and VSRR compared to SAVR. In diagnoses of infection, there is a higher and prolonged fever.
Color-scalable flow cytometry with Raman tags
Authors: Nishiyama Ryo , Hiramatsu Kotaro , Kawamura Shintaro , Dodo Kosuke , Furuya Kei , de Pablo Julia Gala , Takizawa Shigekazu , Min Wei , Sodeoka Mikiko , Goda Keisuke
Published: January 2023

Flow cytometry is an indispensable tool in biology and medicine for counting and analyzing cells in large heterogeneous populations. It identifies multiple characteristics of every single cell, typically via fluorescent probes that specifically bind to target molecules on the cell surface or within the cell. However, flow cytometry has a critical limitation: the color barrier. The number of chemical traits that can be simultaneously resolved is typically limited to several due to the spectral overlap between fluorescence signals from different fluorescent probes. Here, we present color-scalable flow cytometry based on coherent Raman flow cytometry with Raman tags to break the color barrier. This is made possible by combining a broadband Fourier-transform coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (FT-CARS) flow cytometer, resonance-enhanced cyanine-based Raman tags, and Raman-active dots (Rdots). Specifically, we synthesized 20 cyanine-based Raman tags whose Raman spectra are linearly independent in the fingerprint region (400 to 1,600 cm−1). For highly sensitive detection, we produced Rdots composed of 12 different Raman tags in polymer nanoparticles whose detection limit was as low as 12 nM for a short FT-CARS signal integration time of 420 µs. We performed multiplex flow cytometry of MCF-7 breast cancer cells stained by 12 different Rdots with a high classification accuracy of 98%. Moreover, we demonstrated a large-scale time-course analysis of endocytosis via the multiplex Raman flow cytometer. Our method can theoretically achieve flow cytometry of live cells with >140 colors based on a single excitation laser and a single detector without increasing instrument size, cost, or complexity.
Efficacy and Dose of Rehabilitation Approaches for Severe Upper Limb Impairments and Disability During Early Acute and Subacute Stroke: A Systematic Review
Authors: Doumen Steff , Sorba Luca , Feys Peter , Tedesco Triccas Lisa
Published: January 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the evidence of the efficacy of rehabilitation approaches for improving severe upper limb impairments and disability during acute and early subacute stroke, taking into consideration the dosage of therapy.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials from PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched by 2 independent researchers. Studies were selected if they involved active rehabilitation interventions that were conducted in the acute stage (<7 days after stroke) or the early subacute stage (>7 days–3 months after stroke), with the aim of improving severe upper limb motor impairments and disability. Data were extracted on the basis of the type and effect of rehabilitation interventions and on the dosage (duration, frequency, session length, episode difficulty, and intensity). Study quality was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database Scale.

Results

Twenty-three studies (1271 participants) with fair to good methodological quality were included. Only 3 studies were performed in the acute stage. Regardless of the type of intervention, upper limb rehabilitation was found to be beneficial for severe upper limb impairments and disability. Robotic therapy and functional electrical stimulation were identified as the most popular upper limb interventions; however, only a limited number of studies showed their superiority over a dose-matched control intervention for severe upper limb impairments in the subacute stage. A longer rehabilitation session length (<60 minutes) did not seem to have a larger impact on the magnitude of improved upper limb impairments.

Conclusion

Different rehabilitation approaches seem to improve severe upper limb impairments and disability in the subacute stage after stroke; however, they are not distinctly superior to standard care or other interventions provided at the same dosage.

Impact

Robotic therapy and functional electrical stimulation add variety to rehabilitation programs, but their benefit has not been shown to exceed that of standard care. Further research is necessary to identify the impact of dosage parameters (eg, intensity) on severe upper limb motor impairments and function, especially in the acute stage.
Extending time-series models for irregular observational gaps with a moving average structure for astronomical sequences
Authors: Ojeda C , Palma W , Eyheramendy S , Elorrieta F
Published: January 2023

In this study, we introduce a novel moving-average model for analyzing stationary time-series observed irregularly in time. The process is strictly stationary and ergodic under normality and weakly stationary when normality is not assumed. Maximum likelihood (ML) estimation can be efficiently carried out through a Kalman algorithm obtained from the state-space representation of the model. The Kalman algorithm has order O(n) (where n is the number of observations in the sequence), from which it is possible to efficiently generate parameter estimators, linear predictors, and their mean-squared errors. Two procedures were developed for assessing parameter estimation errors: one based on the Hessian of the likelihood function and another one based on the bootstrap method. The behaviour of these estimators was assessed through Monte Carlo experiments. Both methods give accurate estimation performance, even with relatively small number of observations. Moreover, it is shown that for non-Gaussian data, specifically for the Student's t and generalized error distributions, the parameters of the model can be estimated precisely by ML. The proposed model is compared to the continuous autoregressive moving average (MA) models, showing better performance when the MA parameter is negative or close to one. We illustrate the implementation of the proposed model with light curves of variable stars from the OGLE and HIPPARCOS surveys and stochastic objects from Zwicky Transient Facility. The results suggest that the irregular MA model is a suitable alternative for modelling astronomical light curves, particularly when they have negative autocorrelation.
A Phase II randomized controlled trial of oral prednisolone in early diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (PRedSS)
Authors: Griffiths-Jones Deborah J , Garcia Yvonne Sylvestre , Ryder W David , Pauling John D , Hall Frances , Lanyon Peter , Bhat Smita , Douglas Karen , Gunawardena Harsha , Akil Mohammed , Anderson Marina , Griffiths Bridget , Del Galdo Francesco , Youssef Hazem , Madhok Rajan , Arthurs Barbara , Buch Maya , Fligelstone Kim , Zubair Mohammed , Mason Justin C , Denton Christopher P , Herrick Ariane L
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Although the painful and disabling features of early diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc) have an inflammatory basis and could respond to corticosteroids, corticosteroids are a risk factor for scleroderma renal crisis. Whether or not they should be prescribed is therefore highly contentious. Our aim was to examine safety and efficacy of moderate-dose prednisolone in early dcSSc.

Methods

PRedSS set out as a Phase II, multicentre, double-blind randomized controlled trial, converted to open-label during the Covid-19 pandemic. Patients were randomized to receive either prednisolone (∼0.3 mg/kg) or matching placebo (or no treatment during open-label) for 6 months. Co-primary endpoints were the HAQ Disability Index (HAQ-DI) and modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS) at 3 months. Over 20 secondary endpoints included patient reported outcome measures reflecting pain, itch, fatigue, anxiety and depression, and helplessness. Target recruitment was 72 patients.

Results

Thirty-five patients were randomized (17 prednisolone, 18 placebo/control). The adjusted mean difference between treatment groups at 3 months in HAQ-DI score was −0.10 (97.5% CI: −0.29, 0.10), P = 0.254, and in mRSS −3.90 (97.5% CI: −8.83, 1.03), P = 0.070, both favouring prednisolone but not significantly. Patients in the prednisolone group experienced significantly less pain (P = 0.027), anxiety (P = 0.018) and helplessness (P = 0.040) than control patients at 3 months. There were no renal crises, but sample size was small.

Conclusion

PRedSS was terminated early primarily due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and so was underpowered. Therefore, interpretation must be cautious and results considered inconclusive, indicating the need for a further randomized trial.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, https://clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03708718.
A Sustainable Solution or Just a Different Form of Humanitarian Assistance? Examining the Kalobeyei Integrated Socio-Economic Development Plan (KISEDP)
Authors: Fellesson Måns
Published: January 2023

This article contributes to the understanding of operational challenges linked to the implementation of the Global Compact on Refugees and the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework . In the scope of the analysis is the operationalisation of the Kalobeyei Integrated Socio-Economic Development Plan in Kenya, aimed at promoting economic and social integration through greater opportunities for self-reliance, livelihood, and inclusion in national service systems for refugees and the host population alike. The article sheds light on the conditions and prospects for developing the Kalobeyei Integrated Socio-Economic Development Plan by examining key circumstances and interplays in two areas central to the idea of refugee/host integration – relevant national legal frameworks and the composition of grounding socio-economic factors. The results show the need for revisions to the Kalobeyei Integrated Socio-Economic Development Plan if its most grounding objectives are to materialise. As it stands, the implementation builds on an incompatible amalgamation of a grand development vision, speaking about inclusion, mobility, and economic development, to be carried out in a much restricted and economically challenging environment.
Longitudinal self-concept development in adolescence
Authors: van der Cruijsen Renske , Blankenstein Neeltje E , Spaans Jochem P , Peters Sabine , Crone Eveline A
Published: January 2023

This longitudinal behavioral neuroimaging study tested two hypotheses concerning self-concept development in adolescence: domain-specific self-concept and similarity between own (direct) and perceived peers’ (reflected) opinions of the self. Participants (N = 189; 10–24 years) evaluated their traits in academic, physical appearance and prosocial domains from direct and reflected perspectives in an functional magnetic resonance imaging session across three time points (TP1: n = 160; TP2: n = 151; TP3: n = 144). Behaviorally, we observed a mid-adolescent dip in self-concept positivity, which was strongest for the academic domain, showing domain differentiation in mid-adolescence. Self-evaluations were associated with activity in, e.g. medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and temporal–parietal junction (TPJ). mPFC showed an adolescent-emerging peak in activation, pronounced more for direct than reflected self-evaluations. TPJ activation was generally stronger for reflected self-evaluations, and activation linearly increased with age for both reflected and direct self-evaluations. Longitudinal prediction analyses showed that positivity of self-evaluations predicted increases in self-concept clarity and less fear of negative evaluation 1 and 2 years later, highlighting the developmental benefits of acquiring a positive self-concept. Together, we show that adolescent self-development is characterized by dissociable neural patterns underlying self-evaluations in different domains, and from reflected and direct perspectives, confirming adolescence as a formative phase for developing a coherent and positive self-concept.
Right amygdala–right precuneus connectivity is associated with childhood trauma in major depression patients and healthy controls
Authors: Fan Jie , Gao Feng , Wang Xiang , Liu Qian , Xia Jie , Han Yan , Yi Jinyao , Tan Changlian , Zhu Xiongzhao
Published: January 2023

The present study investigated the effect of childhood trauma (CT) on amygdala and hippocampus functional connectivity (FC) and the association with clinical presentations of major depressive disorder (MDD). Participants included 73 MDD patients (42 with moderate-to-severe CT and 31 with no or low CT) and 64 healthy controls (HC; 30 with moderate-to-severe CT and 34 with no or low CT). Seed-based whole-brain resting-state FC analyses were performed with seeds located in amygdala and hippocampus. Individuals with moderate-to-severe CT, irrespective of MDD diagnosis, had decreased right amygdala–right precuneus connectivity compared to those with no or low CT. Right amygdala–right precuneus connectivity was significantly correlated with physical and social trait anhedonia in MDD. Mediation effects of this FC on relationship between CT (specifically neglect but not abuse) and trait anhedonia in MDD were significant. MDD patients demonstrated increased right amygdala–left middle frontal gyrus FC, decreased right amygdala–right medial superior frontal gyrus (mSFG) FC and decreased right hippocampus–bilateral mSFG FC relative to HC. Findings highlight the effect of CT on right amygdala–right precuneus FC irrespective of MDD diagnosis. FC of right amygdala–right precuneus may be involved in the mechanism linking CT and depression through its association with trait anhedonia.
E-cigarettes Induce Dysregulation of Autophagy Leading to Endothelial Dysfunction in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Liu Chen-wei , Le Hoai Huong Thi , Denaro Philip , Dai Zhiyu , Shao Ning-Yi , Ong Sang-Ging , Lee Won Hee
Published: January 2023

Given the increasing popularity of electronic cigarettes (e-cigs), it is imperative to evaluate the potential health risks of e-cigs, especially in users with preexisting health concerns such as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The aim of the present study was to investigate whether differential susceptibility exists between healthy and patients with PAH to e-cig exposure and the molecular mechanisms contributing to it. Patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cell-derived endothelial cells (iPSC-ECs) from healthy individuals and patients with PAH were used to investigate whether e-cig contributes to the pathophysiology of PAH and affects EC homeostasis in PAH. Our results showed that PAH iPSC-ECs showed a greater amount of damage than healthy iPSC-ECs upon e-cig exposure. Transcriptomic analyses revealed that differential expression of Akt3 may be responsible for increased autophagic flux impairment in PAH iPSC-ECs, which underlies increased susceptibility upon e-cig exposure. Moreover, knockdown of Akt3 in healthy iPSC-ECs significantly induced autophagic flux impairment and endothelial dysfunction, which further increased with e-cig treatment, thus mimicking the PAH cell phenotype after e-cig exposure. In addition, functional disruption of mTORC2 by knocking down Rictor in PAH iPSC-ECs caused autophagic flux impairment, which was mediated by downregulation of Akt3. Finally, pharmacological induction of autophagy via direct inhibition of mTORC1 and indirect activation of mTORC2 with rapamycin reverses e-cig-induced decreased Akt3 expression, endothelial dysfunction, autophagic flux impairment, and decreased cell viability, and migration in PAH iPSC-ECs. Taken together, these data suggest a potential link between autophagy and Akt3-mediated increased susceptibility to e-cig in PAH.
The effect of supplementation of essential amino acid combinations in a low crude protein diet on growth performance in weanling pigs
Authors: Wellington Michael O , Hulshof Tetske G , Resink Jan Wellim , Ernst Kristi , Balemans Anke , Page Greg I
Published: January 2023

The present study investigated the impact of providing different supplemental essential amino acids (EAA) in a low crude protein (CP) diet on growth performance in weanling pigs. A total of 324 mixed-sex 24-d weaned piglets (initial BW 6.9 ± 0.34 kg) were used in a 27-d growth trial with six dietary treatments immediately post-weaning. The first two treatments were a control standard CP (19%) diet (positive control; PC) and a negative control (NC) diet with low CP (16%) and reduced Ile, Leu, and histidine levels. The rest of the treatments had low CP with varied EAA types and levels; T1 had similar Ile, Leu, and His levels as PC but with low CP (16%), while T2 had low CP and 10% higher His, Thr, Trp, and Met+Cys compared to PC. The T3 was a low CP diet with 10% supplemental Leu, Ile, and Val compared to PC, while T4 was a low CP diet with 10% supplementation with all the EAA except Lys compared to PC. The initial body weight (BW) was not statistically different (P > 0.05) among the treatments. Also, on d 6, no statistical differences in BW were observed among the treatments. The average BW recorded on d 13, 20, and 27 showed significant treatment differences where the PC had consistently higher BW than all the other treatments (P < 0.05). The average daily gain (ADG) of the PC was higher than the rest of the treatments. Between d 13 and 20, the average daily feed intake (ADFI) for PC was not different from NC and T1 (P > 0.05), but compared to T2, T3, and T4, the PC treatment showed a high ADFI (P < 0.05). Overall (d 0–27), the ADFI for PC was not different from T1 and was significantly higher than all other treatments. Overall, results showed that the gain to feed (G:F) ratio was higher (P < 0.05) for PC compared to other dietary treatments. In summary, although the treatments (T1–T4) consisted of varying levels of EAA above the recommended requirement levels for optimal performance, we did not see a significant impact on growth performance improvement, which may indicate that the targeted EAA (His, Val, Thr, lle, Leu, Trp, and Met) may not have been limiting in these diets. On the other hand, the phenylalanine (Phe) requirement may be limited in the current formulations, or perhaps the EAA: total N ratio in T1, T2, T3, and T4 may have been too high, resulting in the inefficiency of EAA utilization for growth.
Temporal asymmetries and interactions between dorsal and ventral visual pathways during object recognition
Authors: Ayzenberg Vladislav , Simmons Claire , Behrmann Marlene
Published: January 2023

Despite their anatomical and functional distinctions, there is growing evidence that the dorsal and ventral visual pathways interact to support object recognition. However, the exact nature of these interactions remains poorly understood. Is the presence of identity-relevant object information in the dorsal pathway simply a byproduct of ventral input? Or, might the dorsal pathway be a source of input to the ventral pathway for object recognition? In the current study, we used high-density EEG—a technique with high temporal precision and spatial resolution sufficient to distinguish parietal and temporal lobes—to characterise the dynamics of dorsal and ventral pathways during object viewing. Using multivariate analyses, we found that category decoding in the dorsal pathway preceded that in the ventral pathway. Importantly, the dorsal pathway predicted the multivariate responses of the ventral pathway in a time-dependent manner, rather than the other way around. Together, these findings suggest that the dorsal pathway is a critical source of input to the ventral pathway for object recognition.
Systematic evaluation of chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing to study histone occupancy in dormancy transitions of grapevine buds
Authors: Hermawaty Dina , Cahn Jonathan , Lister Ryan , Considine Michael J
Published: January 2023

The regulation of DNA accessibility by histone modification has emerged as a paradigm of developmental and environmental programming. Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (ChIP-seq) is a versatile tool to investigate in vivo protein–DNA interaction and has enabled advances in mechanistic understanding of physiologies. The technique has been successfully demonstrated in several plant species and tissues; however, it has remained challenging in woody tissues, in particular complex structures such as perennating buds. Here we developed a ChIP method specifically for mature dormant buds of grapevine (Vitis vinifera cv. Cabernet Sauvignon). Each step of the protocol was systematically optimized, including crosslinking, chromatin extraction, sonication and antibody validation. Analysis of histone H3-enriched DNA was performed to evaluate the success of the protocol and identify occupancy of histone H3 along grapevine bud chromatin. To our best knowledge, this is the first ChIP experiment protocol optimized for the grapevine bud system.
Risk Factors for Refractory Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-related Pneumonitis in Patients With Lung Cancer
Authors: Tan Peixin , Huang Wei , He Xinyan , Lv Fengquan , Cui Yanhai , Du Shasha
Published: January 2023

Checkpoint inhibitor-related pneumonitis (CIP) is one of the most important immune checkpoint inhibitors side effects, and it is rare but fatal. Identifying patients at risk of refractory CIP before the start of CIP therapy is important for controlling CIP. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 60 patients with lung cancer who developed CIP. Refractory CIP was defined as CIP with poor response to corticosteroid treatment, including CIP not relieved with corticosteroid administration or CIP recurrence during the corticosteroid tapering period. We analyzed clinical characteristics, peripheral blood biomarkers, treatment, and outcomes in nonrefractory and refractory CIP. Risk factors associated with refractory CIP were assessed. Among 60 patients with CIP, 16 (26.7%) had refractory CIP. The median onset time for patients with nonrefractory and those with refractory CIP was 16.57 (interquartile range [IQR], 6.82–28.14) weeks and 7.43 (IQR, 2.71–19.1) weeks, respectively. The level of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was significantly higher in the refractory CIP group at baseline (255 [222, 418] vs. 216 [183, 252], P=0.031) and at CIP onset (321.5 [216.75, 487.5] vs. 219 [198. 241], P=0.019). An LDH level >320 U/L at CIP onset was an independent risk factor of refractory CIP (odds ratio [OR], 8.889; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.294–61.058; P=0.026). The incidence of refractory CIP is high among patients with CIP. An increased LDH level at CIP onset is independently associated with refractory CIP. Monitoring LDH levels during immune checkpoint inhibitors treatment is recommended.
Efgartigimod: a breakthrough medicine for myasthenia gravis
Authors: Shaikh Omer Ahmad , Idrees Rahma , Aftab Rameel Muhammad , Shaikh Gulrukh , Ochani Sidhant , Ullah Kaleem
Published: January 2023

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease of the neuromuscular junction origin that causes persistent fatigue and weakening of voluntary muscles. MG is the most prevalent neuromuscular junction disorder, with an estimated 150–200 new cases per million individuals per year. Patients with MG presently lack a specific and effective long-term therapeutic option. Patients with generalized MG who test positive for anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies have demonstrated a positive response to Efgartigimod therapy. Thus, the clinical trial of Efgartigimod for the treatment of generalized MG is a significant step toward the availability of an internationally licensed medicine for the ailment.
Population Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Target Attainment Analyses for Dalbavancin in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Carrothers Timothy J. , Lagraauw H. Maxime , Lindbom Lars , Riccobene Todd A.
Published: January 2023

Background:

Dalbavancin, approved for the treatment of pediatric and adult patients with acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections, has a terminal half-life of >14 days allowing administration as a single-dose regimen.

Methods:

We developed a population pharmacokinetic (PK) model using 1124 dalbavancin concentrations from 211 pediatric patients, with allometric scaling of clearance and volume parameter exponents fixed at 0.75 and 1, respectively. Serum albumin was included as a covariate on all PK parameters; creatinine clearance or estimated glomerular filtration rate was a covariate on clearance. The final model, qualified by visual predictive checks and bootstrapping, was used to simulate 1000 PK profiles for a range of pediatric age groups. PK/pharmacodynamic target attainment (PTA) was calculated for targets associated with stasis, 1-log kill, and 2-log kill of Staphylococcus aureus (neutropenic murine thigh infection model).

Results:

Dalbavancin PK was well characterized by a three-compartment model. No additional significant covariates were identified. Simulations showed that single-dose (30-minute intravenous infusion) regimens of 22.5 mg/kg (patients <6 years) and 18 mg/kg (patients 6 years to <18 years) resulted in PTA ≥94% for minimal inhibitory concentrations ≤2 mg/L and ≤0.5 mg/L for the stasis and 2-log kill targets, respectively. PTA for pediatric patients was similar to adults with exposures within the range for adults administered 1500 mg dalbavancin.

Conclusion:

Dalbavancin PK in pediatric patients was well characterized by a three-compartment model. Simulations with the final model demonstrated adequate PTA across the entire age range for the approved pediatric dalbavancin doses.
COVID-19 as a Trigger of Acute-on-Chronic Hepatitis B Presenting With Undetectable INR Due to Hypercoagulability in a 16-Year-Old Girl
Authors: Giugliano Laura , Pinon Michele , Calvo Pier Luigi
Published: January 2023

In patients with SarS-CoV2 and chronic Hepatitis B (HBV) co-infection liver injury is associated with a worse prognosis. We report a case of acute chronic liver failure (ACLF) with encephalopathy due to HBV reactivation during COVID-19 with undetectable INR. Thromboelastography showed a profile consistent with a prothrombotic state so INR was not a reliable marker of liver function until plasma infusion. After plasma infusion, indeed, an imbalance of hepatic function was shown by an underlying INR prolongation that was consistent with an ACLF.
Comparison of Epidemiologic and Clinical COVID-19 Profiles in Children in Argentina, During Circulation of Original and Variant (Alpha, Gamma and Lambda) Strains
Authors: Gentile Angela , Juárez María Del Valle , Romero Bollon Lucia , Aprea Valeria , Matteucci Erika , Falaschi Andrea , Brizuela Martin , Euliarte Cristina , Gregorio Gabriela , Della Latta Maria Paula , Russ Carlota , Ensinck Gabriela Nidia , Saraceni Liliana , Bruno Miriam , Garnero Analía , Cohen Arazi Laura , Melonari Pablo , Pebe Florian Victor , Bogdanowicz Elizabeth , Gaiano Alejandra , Bellone Luciana , Areso Maria Soledad ,   on behalf of the COVID-19 Pediatric Networka
Published: January 2023

Background:

Information on the impact of the different variants in children in Latin America is scarce. The objective of this study was to describe epidemiologic and clinical features of COVID-19 infection in children under 18 years of age in Argentina, comparing the periods before and after the circulation of new variants.

Methods:

Observational, cross-sectional, multicentric, analytical study. All patients under 18 years of age with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection admitted at 22 healthcare centers were included. Two study periods were established: Period 1 (EW10-2020 to EW12-2021) for the Wuhan strain; Period 2 (EW13 to EW35 2021) for Alpha, Gamma, Delta and Lambda variants.

Findings:

A total of 6330 confirmed cases were included. Period 1: 3575 (56.5%), period 2: 2755 (43.5%). During period 2, a lower number of asymptomatic cases was observed, while general, respiratory and neurologic signs and symptoms increased in all age groups. Oxygen therapy requirement was higher during the first period (36.7% vs 19.1%; P < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in the rates of severe or critical cases (6.3% vs 5,4%; P = 0.102), intensive care admission (2.1% vs 2%; P < 0.656) or case fatality (0.3% vs 0.5 %; P < 0.229). MIS-C cases occurred more frequently during the first period (1.9% vs 1.1%; P = 0.009)

Interpretation:

The clinical spectrum of COVID-19 in Argentina has evolved. With the emergence of new variants, although the number of asymptomatic cases declined, numbers of severe and critical cases, as well as case fatality rates in children, remained unchanged.