bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High efficient bi-functional metasurface with linear polarization conversion and asymmetric transmission for terahertz region
Authors: Nguyen Thi Quynh Hoa , Nguyen Thi Minh , Nguyen Hong Quang
Published: October 2024

Polarization control is crucial in contemporary photonics, but achieving broad bandwidths and high efficiencies remains a significant challenge. Here, we propose a wideband and high-efficiency metasurface designed for linear polarization conversion and asymmetric transmission (AT) in the terahertz region based on a three-layered chiral structure. By integrating a double-split ring resonator with a strip resonator, the proposed design can improve bandwidth and efficiency cross-polarization conversion and AT capabilities for a linearly polarized wave. The operating band for AT is 0.73–3.01 THz with an efficiency above 0.8, while the polarization conversion ratio exceeds 0.99 across the 0.56–3.94 THz range. The underlying physical mechanism behind wideband transmission polarization conversion is fully elucidated through theoretical analysis and the characterization of surface current distribution. The designed structure can be used in terahertz imaging, sensing, and communication.
Discovery of Multicomponent Materials
Authors: Cantor Brian
Published: October 2024

This chapter describes the events by which Cantor and his colleagues in the late 1970s and Yeh and his colleagues in the mid-1990s independently discovered and began to explore multicomponent high-entropy materials. It’s a personal account, a story, and written therefore, somewhat unusually for a textbook, in the first person. It covers: 1) the first discovery of multicomponent alloys; 2) the first recognition of the importance of high entropy in stabilising single-phase solid solutions rather than multiphase mixtures of compounds; 3) the first discovery of single-phase face-centred cubic (fcc) Cantor alloys and the subsequent discovery of single-phase body-centred cubic (bcc) Senkov alloys; 4) the first discovery of multicomponent intermetallic and then ceramic compounds; and 5) some brief biographical details of the scientists involved.
Structure of Multicomponent Materials
Authors: Cantor Brian
Published: October 2024

This chapter discusses several aspects of the structure of multicomponent high-entropy materials: the fundamental thermodynamics of single-phase and multiphase multicomponent materials; the atomic and electronic structure of multicomponent single-phase solid solutions; and defects such as vacancies, dislocations and grain boundaries in multicomponent single-phase solid solutions, as well as their effect on fundamental properties such as atomic diffusion, twinning, plastic flow and recrystallisation. It concentrates on the available experimental evidence for the structure of the materials, supported where appropriate by the use of thermodynamic and atomistic computer modelling techniques.
Making Multicomponent Materials
Authors: Cantor Brian
Published: October 2024

Multicomponent phase space is truly enormous, containing literally trillions upon trillions of different materials, almost all so far completely uninvestigated or even conceived. This discovery immediately raises the critical question of how best to chart such a vast range of possible new multicomponent materials with potentially exciting new and valuable properties. This chapter discusses two aspects of this problem; first it considers the different strategies that have been developed for trying to map parts of multicomponent phase space in a scientifically organised way, using methods such as multicomponent substitution, multicomponent Hume-Rothery rules, thermodynamic calculations, atomistic modelling, machine learning and high-throughput measurements; and second, it then describes some of the the manufacturing methods that are available and have been used for making multicomponent materials in a controlled and reliable way.
Properties of Multicomponent Materials
Authors: Cantor Brian
Published: October 2024

There are trillions of exciting new multicomponent high-entropy materials with wonderful new properties yet to be found. This chapter describes some of the properties and potential applications of multicomponent high-entropy materials that have begun to be investigated during the intensive research of the last decade or so. It does not cover in detail all the work that has been done, but instead concentrates on a few examples, on those properties and applications discovered so far that are particularly innovative and potentially valuable. In particular, it concentrates on: 1) the low- and high-temperature mechanical properties of multicomponent Cantor and Senkov alloys; 2) the mechanical and thermal properties of multicomponent hard-facing and thermal barrier coatings (TBCs); 3) the radiation, corrosion and wear resistance of multicomponent metallic and ceramic materials; and 4) the catalytic properties of multicomponent metallic and ceramic nanoparticles.
Special Series on the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-IV Performances in Five Asian Countries: Summary of Findings, Clinical Implications, and Future Directions
Authors: Fujii Daryl E
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This special series of exploratory studies compared WAIS-IV performances in five Asian countries: Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, India, and Indonesia with the U.S. The studies examined cognitive profiles across age groups to develop hypotheses on how culture can impact cognition. This summary article integrates the findings from each study to determine similarities and differences across Asian countries and proposes possible underlying cultural factors impacting cognition.

Methods

In each study, raw scores corresponding to a subscale score of 10 were scored with U.S. norms across all age groups. Index scores were calculated with the adjusted scale scores. The impact of education on test performances was determined by correlating WAIS-IV scores with a ratio of educational attainment for each country with the U.S. for each age group. Findings from each country were then integrated to develop hypotheses on cultural factors that impacted cognitive profiles.

Results

East Asian countries (Japan, South Korea, Taiwan) demonstrated weaker Verbal Comprehension Index scores and stronger Processing Speed Index scores than the U.S. sample, although the latter was moderated by age. East Asian countries demonstrated stronger performances on Perceptual Reasoning versus Verbal Comprehension tests. East Asians and the Java subset of the Indonesian sample demonstrated a pattern of stronger performances in younger versus older cohorts which was significantly correlated with educational attainment.

Discussion

Cultural factors impacting cognition were proposed. Clinical implications of the findings were discussed and directions for future studies to examine the relationship between culture and cognition were recommended.
Evaluation of Permanent Nipple-Areolar Complex Sensitivity Loss Following Reduction Mammaplasty
Authors: Francalancia Stephanie , Lou Mary , McIntire Damon , Sobti Nikhil , Barrow Brooke , Marquez-Garcia Josué , Kwan Daniel , Sullivan Rachel , Liu Paul , Breuing Karl
Published: October 2024

Background

Predictors for permanent nipple-areolar complex (NAC) insensitivity after reduction mammaplasty are sparsely defined.

Objectives

We analyzed factors associated with NAC insensitivity over long-term follow-up.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of reduction mammaplasties on 1598 breasts performed by 4 surgeons from March 2015 to February 2023 was conducted. Data on patient demographics, intraoperative factors, and postoperative complications were collected from patient records. Analysis was conducted by breast, separated into breasts with NAC insensitivity (permanent and transient) and those without. Wilcoxon rank sum test for continuous variables and Fisher's exact test or Pearson's chi-square test for categorical variables evaluated differences between the groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyzed the association of pedicle choice with NAC insensitivity onset and permanence.

Results

Of 1598 breasts, 9.8% had loss of NAC sensation, of which 49.0% had permanent loss. A total of 51.0% regained sensitivity, taking an average of 116 days (median 64, range 6-798) to regain sensation. NAC-insensitive breasts had longer sternal notch to NAC (P < .001) and NAC to IMF (P < .001) measurements, greater weight removed (P < .001), and fat necrosis co-complication (P = .022). Greater weight removed (P = .044) and longer sternal notch to NAC measurements (P = .011) were associated with permanent insensitivity. The superomedial pedicle was associated with an increased rate of transient NAC insensitivity, whereas the inferior pedicle had a decreased rate. There was no significant association between pedicle choices and permanent insensitivity.

Conclusions

Transient loss of NAC sensitivity is associated with pedicle choice, and breasts with permanent insensitivity were more likely to have longer breast measurements and a greater amount of tissue removed.

Level of Evidence: 4 (Therapeutic)
Deep contrastive learning for predicting cancer prognosis using gene expression values
Authors: Sun Anchen , Franzmann Elizabeth J , Chen Zhibin , Cai Xiaodong
Published: October 2024

Recent advancements in image classification have demonstrated that contrastive learning (CL) can aid in further learning tasks by acquiring good feature representation from a limited number of data samples. In this paper, we applied CL to tumor transcriptomes and clinical data to learn feature representations in a low-dimensional space. We then utilized these learned features to train a classifier to categorize tumors into a high- or low-risk group of recurrence. Using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), we demonstrated that CL can significantly improve classification accuracy. Specifically, our CL-based classifiers achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) greater than 0.8 for 14 types of cancer, and an AUC greater than 0.9 for 3 types of cancer. We also developed CL-based Cox (CLCox) models for predicting cancer prognosis. Our CLCox models trained with the TCGA data outperformed existing methods significantly in predicting the prognosis of 19 types of cancer under consideration. The performance of CLCox models and CL-based classifiers trained with TCGA lung and prostate cancer data were validated using the data from two independent cohorts. We also show that the CLCox model trained with the whole transcriptome significantly outperforms the Cox model trained with the 16 genes of Oncotype DX that is in clinical use for breast cancer patients. The trained models and the Python codes are publicly accessible and provide a valuable resource that will potentially find clinical applications for many types of cancer.
Rural areas as winners of COVID-19, digitalization and remote working? Empirical evidence from recent internal migration in Germany
Authors: Knuepling Louis , Sternberg Rolf , Otto Anne
Published: October 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused economic crises and increased inter-regional economic disparities. However, the catalyst effect that the pandemic has had on digitalization may change the traditional pattern of internal migration, in favour of rural areas. Using time-sensitive register data we explain changes in net migration rates of German districts from an economic geography perspective. We show that, since the beginning of the pandemic, rural regions benefited more from migration. In particular, younger and highly skilled individuals increasingly move to rural areas. This confirms that rural regions can benefit from increasing remote work, but these effects differ across region types and individual skill levels.
Comparison of open and hybrid endovascular repair for aortic arch: a multi-centre study of 1052 adult patients
Authors: Sakamoto Kazuhisa , Shimamoto Takeshi , Esaki Jiro , Komiya Tatsuhiko , Ohno Nobuhisa , Nakayama Shogo , Paku Masaki , Hidaka Yu , Morita Satoshi , Marui Akira , Minatoya Kenji ,   Advance-Kyoto Investigators, Ikeda Tadashi , Yamazaki Kazuhiro , Masumoto Hidetoshi , Ide Yujiro , Kawatou Masahide , Kumagai Motoyuki , Sakai Jiro
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to evaluate early and late outcomes by comparing open total arch repair and endovascular arch repair using proximal landing zone analysis in a multicentre cohort.

METHODS

From 2008 to 2019, patients treated surgically for aortic arch disease at 6 centres were included, excluding cases with type A aortic dissection, additional aortic root replacement and extensive aortic aneurysm. In all patients and populations with proximal landing zones 0/1 (N = 144) and 2 (N = 187), early and late outcomes were compared using propensity score matching.

RESULTS

A total of 1052 patients, including 331 (31%) and 721 (69%) patients undergoing endovascular arch repair and open total arch repair, respectively, were enrolled. After propensity score match (endovascular arch repair, 295; open total arch repair, 566), no significant difference was observed in in-hospital mortality rate (endovascular arch repair, 6.8%; open total arch repair, 6.2%; P = 0.716). Open total arch repair was associated with a lower risk of all-cause death [log-rank test; P = 0.010, hazard ratio (HR) 1.41 (95% confidence interval 1.17–1.71)]. The incidence of aorta-related death was higher in endovascular arch repair [Gray’s test; P = 0.030, HR; 1.44 (95% confidence interval 1.20–1.73)]. When compared to endovascular arch repair with proximal landing zone 0/1, open total arch repair was associated with lower risks of all-cause death [log-rank test; P < 0.001, HR 2.04 (95% confidence interval 1.43–2.90)] and aorta-related death [Gray’s test; P = 0.002, HR 1.67 (95% confidence interval; 1.25–2.24)]. There was no difference in the risk of all-cause death [log-rank test; P = 0.961, HR 0.99 (95% confidence interval 0.67–1.46)] and aorta-related death [Gray’s test; P = 0.55, HR 1.31 (95% confidence interval 1.03–1.67)] between endovascular arch repair with proximal landing zone 2 and open total arch repair.

CONCLUSIONS

Open total arch repair was considered the 1st choice based on early and late results; however, endovascular arch repair may be a useful option if the proximal landing zone is limited to zone 2.
Coronary artery bypass grafting vs. percutaneous coronary intervention in severe ischaemic cardiomyopathy: long-term survival
Authors: Bloom Jason E , Vogrin Sara , Reid Christopher M , Ajani Andrew E , Clark David J , Freeman Melanie , Hiew Chin , Brennan Angela , Dinh Diem , Williams-Spence Jenni , Dawson Luke P , Noaman Samer , Chew Derek P , Oqueli Ernesto , Cox Nicholas , McGiffin David , Marasco Silvana , Skillington Peter , Royse Alistair , Stub Dion , Kaye David M , Chan William
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

The optimal revascularization strategy in patients with ischaemic cardiomyopathy remains unclear with no contemporary randomized trial data to guide clinical practice. This study aims to assess long-term survival in patients with severe ischaemic cardiomyopathy revascularized by either coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

Using the Australian and New Zealand Society of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgeons and Melbourne Interventional Group registries (from January 2005 to 2018), patients with severe ischaemic cardiomyopathy [left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <35%] undergoing PCI or isolated CABG were included in the analysis. Those with ST-elevation myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock were excluded. The primary outcome was long-term National Death Index–linked mortality up to 10 years following revascularization. Risk adjustment was performed to estimate the average treatment effect using propensity score analysis with inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW).

Results

A total of 2042 patients were included, of whom 1451 patients were treated by CABG and 591 by PCI. Inverse probability of treatment weighting–adjusted demographics, procedural indication, coronary artery disease extent, and LVEF were well balanced between the two patient groups. After risk adjustment, patients treated by CABG compared with those treated by PCI experienced reduced long-term mortality [adjusted hazard ratio 0.59, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.45–0.79, P = .001] over a median follow-up period of 4.0 (inter-quartile range 2.2–6.8) years. There was no difference between the groups in terms of in-hospital mortality [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.42, 95% CI 0.41–4.96, P = .58], but there was an increased risk of peri-procedural stroke (aOR 19.6, 95% CI 4.21–91.6, P < .001) and increased length of hospital stay (exponentiated coefficient 3.58, 95% CI 3.00–4.28, P < .001) in patients treated with CABG.

Conclusions

In this multi-centre IPTW analysis, patients with severe ischaemic cardiomyopathy undergoing revascularization by CABG rather than PCI showed improved long-term survival. However, future randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the effect of any such benefits.
Low ambient temperature and incident myocardial infarction with or without obstructive coronary arteries: a Chinese nationwide study
Authors: Huang Jia , He Qinglin , Jiang Yixuan , Wong Jennifer Ming Jen , Li Jianxuan , Liu Jiangdong , Wang Ruochen , Chen Renjie , Dai Yuxiang , Ge Junbo
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

Although non-optimum ambient temperature is a major non-traditional risk factor for acute myocardial infarction, there is no prior knowledge on whether non-optimum ambient temperature could differentially affect myocardial infarction with obstructive coronary artery disease (MI-CAD) and myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA).

Methods

Using the Chinese Cardiovascular Association database-Chest Pain Center Registry, a nationwide, time-stratified, case-crossover investigation was conducted from 2015 to 2021. Meteorological data were obtained from an established satellite-based model, and daily exposures were assigned according to the onset of myocardial infarction in each patient. A conditional logistic regression model combined with distributed lag non-linear models (10 days) was used to estimate the exposure–response relationships.

Results

A total of 83 784 MINOCA patients and 918 730 MI-CAD patients were included. The risk of MINOCA and MI-CAD associated with low temperature occurred at lag 2 day and lasted to 1 week. Extremely low temperature was associated with a substantially greater odds ratio (OR) of MINOCA [OR 1.58, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.31–1.90] than MI-CAD (unmatched: OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.23–1.43; equally matched by age and sex: OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.04–1.50), compared with the corresponding reference temperatures (30°C, 35°C, and 30°C). Stronger associations were observed for patients who were aged ≥65 years, female, or resided in the south. There was no significant difference for the impacts of high temperature on MINOCA and MI-CAD.

Conclusions

This nationwide study highlights the particular susceptibility of MINOCA patients to ambient low temperature compared with that of MI-CAD patients.
High Mortality Rates Among Individuals Misdiagnosed With Tuberculosis: A Matched Retrospective Cohort Study of Individuals Diagnosed With Tuberculosis in Brazil
Authors: Thompson Ryan R , Kim Sun , Pelissari Daniele Maria , Harada Luiza Ohana , de Barros Silva José Nildo , Oliveira Patricia Bartholomay , Castro Marcia C , Cohen Ted , Menzies Nicolas A
Published: October 2024

We conducted a matched retrospective cohort study comparing mortality among individuals receiving a false-positive tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis (n = 3701) to individuals correctly diagnosed with TB (n = 8595) in Brazil from 2007 to 2016. Over an average 5.4-year follow-up period, we estimated a mortality rate ratio of 1.95 (95% confidence interval, 1.80–2.11) for individuals incorrectly diagnosed with TB compared to controls. The leading causes of death among the misdiagnosed were malignant neoplasms (40.9%) and respiratory system disorders (15.9%), conditions with symptoms similar to TB. Our findings highlight the need for improved follow-up care after identification of false-positive cases to increase survival for this high-risk population.
Bactericidal versus bacteriostatic antibacterials: clinical significance, differences and synergistic potential in clinical practice
Authors: Ishak Angela , Mazonakis Nikolaos , Spernovasilis Nikolaos , Akinosoglou Karolina , Tsioutis Constantinos
Published: October 2024

Antibacterial activity can be classified as either bactericidal or bacteriostatic, using methods such as the MBC/MIC ratio and time–kill curves. However, such categorization has proven challenging in clinical practice, as these definitions only apply under specific laboratory conditions, which may differ from clinical settings. Several factors, such as the specific bacteria or infectious medium, can affect the action of antibiotics, with many antibacterials exerting both activities. These definitions have also led to the belief that bactericidal antibacterials are superior to bacteriostatic, especially in more severe cases, such as endocarditis, neutropenia and bacteraemia. Additionally, current dogma dictates against the combination of bactericidal and bacteriostatic antibacterials in clinical practice, due to potential antagonism. This review aimed to assess the differences in antibacterial activity of bactericidal and bacteriostatic antibacterials based on in vitro and in vivo studies and examine their antagonistic or synergistic effects. Our findings show that specific bacteriostatic agents, such as linezolid and tigecycline, are clinically non-inferior to bactericidals in multiple infections, including pneumonia, intra-abdominal infections, and skin and soft tissue infections. Studies also support using several bacteriostatic agents as salvage therapies in severe infections, such as neutropenic fever and endocarditis. Additionally, not all combinations of bacteriostatic and bactericidal agents appear to be antagonistic, with many combinations, such as linezolid and rifampicin, already being used. The findings should be interpreted with caution, as most evidence is from observational studies and there is a need for randomized controlled trials to assess their effectiveness and combinations, especially within the context of rising antimicrobial resistance.
Efficacy of meropenem against ceftazidime–avibactam-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae producing KPC-31, KPC-33, KPC-90, KPC-106 and KPC-114
Authors: Pariona Jesus G M , Vásquez-Ponce Felipe , Pariona Eva M M , Sousa-Carmo Rubens R , Martins-Gonçalves Thais , Becerra Johana , de Lima Aline V , Queiroga Gustavo , Sampaio Jorge L M , Lincopan Nilton
Published: October 2024

Background

Klebsiella pneumoniae producing KPC variants conferring resistance to ceftazidime–avibactam often remain susceptible to meropenem, suggesting a potential therapeutic use of this antibiotic.

Objectives

In this study, the efficacy of clinically relevant concentrations of meropenem was evaluated against high-risk clones of ceftazidime–avibactam-resistant K. pneumoniae strains producing KPC variants, in a tandem in vitro time-kill/in vivo Galleria mellonella survival model.

Methods

In vitro/in vivo efficacy of meropenem against ceftazidime–avibactam-resistant K. pneumoniae of CG16, CG25 and CG258, producing KPC-31, KPC-33, KPC-90, KPC-106 and KPC-114 variants, was evaluated using EUCAST dosing recommendation adjusted to the G. mellonella model. For in vivo assays, untreated, meropenem (40 mg/kg × 1)-treated and ceftazidime–avibactam (40 mg/kg ceftazidime–10 mg/kg avibactam × 1)-treated groups were established, with 60 larvae per group. Kaplan–Meier curves, log-rank tests, univariate Cox regression and hazard ratios (HR) were used to assess treatment effects (P < 0.05).

Results

For all KPC-variant producers, time-kill assays showed >3 log-kills reduction (−6.91 ± 1.28 SD) after 6 h interaction when exposed to 8–32 mg/L meropenem MIC values (i.e.  ≥  × 4 MIC). In the assessment of in vivo efficacy of meropenem, at the 4-day follow-up, mortality rates were 96.7% (untreated), 83.3% (ceftazidime–avibactam-treated) and 13.3% (meropenem-treated) (P < 0.05). Univariate Cox regression analysis showed significantly lower risk in the meropenem group compared to untreated group [HR 0.02 (95% CI: 0.01–0.05)].

Conclusions

These pre-clinical results might support use of meropenem as a potential alternative for treatment of infections due to KPC-variant producers displaying in vitro susceptibility to meropenem.
It all made sense: ASL-first approach in classroom practice
Authors: Noschese Emily Jo
Published: October 2024

This qualitative study delves into the innovative Bilingual Grammar Curriculum. The curriculum aims to enhance bilingualism and linguistic skills among deaf students by integrating American Sign Language instruction and written language grammatical structures. The researcher conducted in-depth interviews with 12 experienced educators of the deaf who have implemented the curriculum in their teaching practices. Employing a thematic analysis approach, the researcher sought to uncover the educators’ perceptions, experiences, and insights regarding the curriculum’s effectiveness and its impact on bilingual language acquisition for deaf learners. Findings revealed a diverse range or perspectives, highlighting both the advantages and challenges of the curriculum’s implementation. Themes emerged encompassing the curriculum’s alignment with linguistic theories, its adaptability to diverse learning needs, the role of educator training, and the incorporation of cultural nuances within bilingual instruction. The study contributes valuable insights to the field of deaf education, shedding light on the intricate dynamics of bilingual grammar pedagogy and providing recommendations for curriculum refinement and educator professional development. Ultimately, this research underscores the significance of innovative approaches in enhancing the linguistic abilities and educational experiences of deaf and hard-of-hearing students within a bilingual framework.
Spectroscopic analysis of the strongly lensed SN Encore: constraints on cosmic evolution of Type Ia supernovae
Authors: Dhawan S , Pierel J D R , Gu M , Newman A B , Larison C , Siebert M , Petrushevska T , Poidevin F , Jha S W , Chen W , Ellis Richard S , Frye B , Hjorth J , Koekemoer Anton M , Pérez-Fournon I , Rest A , Treu T , Windhorst R A , Zenati Y
Published: October 2024

Strong gravitational lensing magnifies the light from a background source, allowing us to study these sources in detail. Here, we study the spectra of a $z = 1.95$ lensed Type Ia supernova (SN Ia) SN Encore for its brightest image A, taken 39 d apart. We infer the spectral age with template matching using the supernova identification (snid ) software and find the spectra to be at $29.0 \pm 5.0$ and $37.4 \pm 2.8$ rest-frame days post-maximum, respectively, consistent with separation in the observer frame after accounting for time dilation. Since SNe Ia measure dark energy properties by providing relative distances between low- and high-z SNe, it is important to test for the evolution of spectroscopic properties. Comparing the spectra to composite low-z SN Ia spectra, we find strong evidence of the similarity between the local sample and SN Encore. The line velocities of common SN Ia spectral lines, Si ii 6355 $\mathring{\rm A}$ and Ca ii near-infrared triplet, are consistent with the distribution for the low-z sample as well as other lensed SNe Ia, e.g. iPTF16geu ($z = 0.409$) and SN H0pe ($z = 1.78$). The consistency between the low-z sample and lensed SNe at high-z suggests no obvious cosmic evolution demonstrating their use as high-z distance indicators, though this needs to be confirmed/refuted via a larger sample. We also find that the spectra of SN Encore match the predictions for explosion models very well. With future large samples of lensed SNe Ia, e.g. with the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, spectra at such late phases will be important to distinguish between different explosion scenarios.
A new multiple-arc model of the resonant Kuiper belt objects – Plutinos
Authors: Chen Yue , Li Jian
Published: October 2024

To incorporate the gravitational influence of Kuiper belt objects (KBOs) in planetary ephemerides, uniform-ring models are commonly employed. In this paper, for representing the KBO population residing in Neptune’s 2:3 mean motion resonance (MMR), known as the Plutinos, we introduce a three-arc model by considering their resonant characteristics. Each ‘arc’ refers to a segment of the uniform ring and comprises an appropriate number of point masses. Then the total perturbation of Plutinos is numerically measured by the change in the Sun–Neptune distance ($\Delta d_{\mathrm {SN}}$). We conduct a comprehensive investigation to take into account various azimuthal and radial distributions associated with the resonant amplitudes (A) and eccentricities (e) of Plutinos, respectively. The results show that over a 100-yr period: (1) at the smallest $e=0.05$, the Sun–Neptune distance change $\Delta d_{\mathrm {SN}}$ caused by Plutinos decreases significantly as A reduces. It can deviate from the value of $\Delta d_{\mathrm {SN}}$ obtained in the ring model by approximately 100 km; (2) as e increases in the medium range of 0.1–0.2, the difference in $\Delta d_{\mathrm {SN}}$ between the arc and ring models becomes increasingly significant; (3) at the largest $e\gtrsim 0.25$, $\Delta d_{\mathrm {SN}}$ can approach zero regardless of A, and the arc and ring models exhibit a substantial difference in $\Delta d_{\mathrm {SN}}$, reaching up to 170 km. Then the applicability of our three-arc model is further verified by comparing it to the perturbations induced by observed Plutinos on the positions of both Neptune and Saturn. Moreover, the concept of the multiple-arc model, designed for Plutinos, can be easily extended to other MMRs densely populated by small bodies.
Impact of orthopaedic surgical intervention on difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis: A propensity score-matched study
Authors: Toyama Shogo , Ishikawa Hajime , Abe Asami , Hao Nariaki , Otani Hiroshi , Takamura Sayuri , Sudo Masanori , Ito Satoshi , Nakazono Kiyoshi , Oda Ryo , Takahashi Kenji , Murasawa Akira
Published: October 2024

Objective: 

To elucidate the therapeutic effect of orthopaedic surgical intervention (OSI) in difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis (D2T RA) compared with non-D2T RA.

Methods

A total of 534 recent surgeries were analysed only in patients who had undergone OSI since 2016 and for whom a 12-month postoperative follow-up was available. D2T RA was determined according to the European League against Rheumatism definition, and patients with D2T RA were matched to patients with non-D2T RA using propensity scores calculated by a logistic regression analysis. The Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ-DI), Disease Activity Index 28 (DAS28), face scale, and patient’s assessment of general health were measured repeatedly at baseline and 6 and 12 months and were compared using a two-way analysis of variance.

Results

The HAQ-DI, DAS28, face scale, and general health showed significant postoperative improvements, and there were significant differences in the HAQ-DI and face scale scores between D2T RA and non-D2T RA. An additional analysis with DAS28 as a covariate showed no significant interaction for either, suggesting that these improvements in clinical assessment were due to OSI rather than improved disease activity.

Conclusions

In the absence of an effective pharmacological treatment strategy, OSI may be an effective treatment modality for the management of D2T RA.
Symptomatic pachydermodactyly: A case report
Authors: Ito Ayaka , Tsuno Hirotaka , Yano Yusuke , Nogi Shinichi , Tabira Yoshihiko , Ohmatsu Hanako , Honda Shogo , Horita Ayako , Saito Ikuo , Matsui Toshihiro
Published: October 2024

Pachydermodactyly, an uncommon variant of digital fibromatosis, predominantly affects young men and results in fibrous swelling on the sides of the proximal interphalangeal joints. It is generally considered benign and asymptomatic, requiring only regular follow-up. Nevertheless, the absence of established diagnostic criteria has led to misdiagnoses, prompting the administration of unnecessary medications. In this report, we present a 14-year-old Japanese male with symptomatic pachydermodactyly (PDD), necessitating careful differentiation from juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) due to the presence of morning stiffness. Despite exhibiting typical PDD features, the patient’s age and symptoms suggested rheumatoid factor-negative polyarticular JIA. However, the lack of inflammatory findings precluded a JIA diagnosis. Following confirmation of the absence of uveitis and progression of bone destruction, the morning stiffness spontaneously resolved without active treatment. However, the patient underwent surgery for aesthetic reasons to alleviate the persistent swelling. Our case highlights the nuances of symptomatic PDD, with a literature review revealing similarities between symptomatic and asymptomatic cases. This challenges the suitability of asymptomatic status as a definitive diagnostic criterion. Our findings contribute to the ongoing efforts in establishing diagnostic criteria for PDD, aiming to reduce misdiagnoses and unnecessary medications in patients.
scLTdb: a comprehensive single-cell lineage tracing database
Authors: Jiang Junyao , Ye Xing , Kong Yunhui , Guo Chenyu , Zhang Mingyuan , Cao Fang , Zhang Yanxiao , Pei Weike
Published: October 2024

Single-cell lineage tracing (scLT) is a powerful technique that integrates cellular barcoding with single-cell sequencing technologies. This new approach enables the simultaneous measurement of cell fate and molecular profiles at single-cell resolution, uncovering the gene regulatory program of cell fate determination. However, a comprehensive scLT database is not yet available. Here, we present the single-cell lineage tracing database (scLTdb, https://scltdb.com) containing 109 datasets that are manually curated and analyzed through a standard pipeline. The scLTdb provides interactive analysis modules for visualizing and re-analyzing scLT datasets, especially the comprehensive cell fate analysis and lineage relationship analysis. Importantly, scLTdb also allows users to identify fate-related gene signatures. In conclusion, scLTdb provides an interactive interface of scLT data exploration and analysis, and will facilitate the understanding of cell fate decision and lineage commitment in development and diseases.
EGFR-mediated HSP70 phosphorylation facilitates PCNA association with chromatin and DNA replication
Authors: Wang Yingying , Fernandez Anthony , Pei Xinyu , Liu Bing , Shen Lei , Yan Yao , Solanki Hitendra S , Yang Lin , Zhou Mian , Guo Yuming , Wu Jun , Reckamp Karen L , Zheng Li , Shen Binghui
Published: October 2024

Efficient DNA replication requires highly coordinated programs for the timely recruitment of protein complexes to DNA replication forks. Defects in this process result in replication stress, which in turn activates cell cycle checkpoints, suppresses cell proliferation and induces apoptosis. In response to persistent cell growth signals that speed up DNA replication processes, cells accelerate the recruitment of DNA replication proteins to avoid DNA replication stress. The mechanisms by which cell growth signals induce processes to facilitate the recruitment of DNA replication proteins onto the replication sites remain unclear. Here, we report that the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) phosphorylates heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) for DNA replication. Such a modification promotes nuclear localization and chromatin association of HSP70, which interacts with the DNA replication coordinator, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). HSP70 subsequently facilitates the loading of PCNA onto chromatin. Knockdown or chemical inhibition of HSP70 suppresses PCNA association with chromatin and impairs DNA synthesis and Okazaki fragment maturation, leading to replicative DNA double-strand breaks and apoptosis. Furthermore, chemical inhibition of HSP70 potentiates EGFR–tyrosine kinase inhibitor-induced tumor reduction in vivo. This work expands our understanding of oncogenesis-induced DNA replication processes and provides a foundation for improved treatments for EGFR-mutated lung cancer by simultaneously targeting HSP70.
stSNV: a comprehensive resource of SNVs in spatial transcriptome
Authors: Yang Changbo , Liu Yujie , Wang Xiaohua , Jia Qing , Fan Yuqi , Lu Zhenglin , Shi Jingyi , Liu Zhaoxin , Chen Gengdong , Li Jianing , Lu Weijian , Zhou Weiwei , Lv Dezhong , Zou Haozhe , Xu Juan , Li Yongsheng , Jiang Qinghua , Wang Tao , Shao Tingting
Published: October 2024

Single nucleotide variants (SNVs), as important components of genetic variation, affect gene expression, function and phenotype. Mining and summarizing the spatial distribution of SNVs in diseased and normal tissues for a better understanding of their characteristics and potential roles in cell-lineage determination, aging, or disease occurrence is significant. Herein, we have developed a comprehensive spatial mutation resource stSNV (http://bio-bigdata.hrbmu.edu.cn/stSNV/index.jsp), which provides an atlas of spatial SNVs in major diseased and normal tissues of human and mouse. stSNV documents 42 202 spatial mutated genes involving 898 908 SNVs called from 730 067 spots within 450 slices from 19 diseased and 28 normal tissues. Importantly, potential characteristics of SNVs are explored and provided by analyzing the perturbation of the SNVs to gene expression, spatial communication, biological function, region-specific mutated genes, spatial mutant signatures, SNV-cell co-localization and mutation core region. All these spatial mutation data and in-depth analyses have been integrated into a user-friendly interface, visualized through intuitive tables and various image formats. Flexible tools are developed to explore co-localization among clusters, genes, cell types and SNVs in the same slice. In summary, stSNV as a valuable resource helps to dissect intra-tissue genetic heterogeneity and lays the groundwork for understanding the SNVs’ biological regulatory mechanisms.
BacDive in 2025: the core database for prokaryotic strain data
Authors: Schober Isabel , Koblitz Julia , Sardà Carbasse Joaquim , Ebeling Christian , Schmidt Marvin Leon , Podstawka Adam , Gupta Rohit , Ilangovan Vinodh , Chamanara Javad , Overmann Jörg , Reimer Lorenz Christian
Published: October 2024

In 2025, the bacterial diversity database BacDive is the leading database for strain-level bacterial and archaeal information. It has been selected as an ELIXIR Core Data Resource as well as a Global Core Biodata Resource. Since its initial release more than ten years ago, BacDive (https://bacdive.dsmz.de) has grown tremendously in content and functionalities, and is a comprehensive resource covering the phenotypic diversity of prokaryotes with data on taxonomy, morphology, physiology, cultivation, and more. The current release (2023.2) contains 2.6 million data points on 97 334 strains, reflecting an increase by 52% since the previous publication in 2021. This remarkable growth can largely be attributed to the integration of the world-wide largest collection of Analytical Profile Index (API) test results, which are now fully integrated into the database and searchable. A novel BacDive knowledge graph provides powerful search options through a SPARQL endpoint, including the possibility for federated searches across multiple data sources. The high-quality data provided by BacDive is increasingly being used for the training of artificial intelligence models and resulting genome-based predictions with high confidence are now used to fill content gaps in the database.
MOBIDB in 2025: integrating ensemble properties and function annotations for intrinsically disordered proteins
Authors: Piovesan Damiano , Del Conte Alessio , Mehdiabadi Mahta , Aspromonte Maria Cristina , Blum Matthias , Tesei Giulio , von Bülow Sören , Lindorff-Larsen Kresten , Tosatto Silvio C E
Published: October 2024

The MobiDB database (URL: https://mobidb.org/) aims to provide structural and functional information about intrinsic protein disorder, aggregating annotations from the literature, experimental data, and predictions for all known protein sequences. Here, we describe the improvements made to our resource to capture more information, simplify access to the aggregated data, and increase documentation of all MobiDB features. Compared to the previous release, all underlying pipeline modules were updated. The prediction module is ten times faster and can detect if a predicted disordered region is structurally extended or compact. The PDB component is now able to process large cryo-EM structures extending the number of processed entries. The entry page has been restyled to highlight functional aspects of disorder and all graphical modules have been completely reimplemented for better flexibility and faster rendering. The server has been improved to optimise bulk downloads. Annotation provenance has been standardised by adopting ECO terms. Finally, we propagated disorder function (IDPO and GO terms) from the DisProt database exploiting sequence similarity and protein embeddings. These improvements, along with the addition of comprehensive training material, offer a more intuitive interface and novel functional knowledge about intrinsic disorder.
Tobacco Smoking Functional Networks: A Whole-Brain Connectome Analysis in 24 539 Individuals
Authors: Pan Yezhi , Bi Chuan , Ye Zhenyao , Lee Hwiyoung , Yu Jiaao , Yammine Luba , Ma Tianzhou , Kochunov Peter , Hong L Elliot , Chen Shuo
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Nicotine addiction, a multifaceted neuropsychiatric disorder, profoundly impacts brain functions through interactions with neural pathways. Despite its significance, the impact of tobacco smoking on the whole-brain functional connectome remains largely unexplored.

Aims and Methods

We conducted a whole-brain analysis on 24 539 adults aged 40 and above from the United Kingdom Biobank cohort. Subjects were categorized into individuals who use nicotine and those who do not use nicotine based on current and chronic tobacco smoking information. Functional connectivity was assessed using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging. We employed a network analysis method to assess the systematic effects of tobacco smoking on brain connectome by identifying subnetworks that show nicotine-use-related differences.

Results

Our analyses revealed two nicotine-use-related subnetworks with distinct network structure (permutation p < .001). In the first network, there is a significant decrease in resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) between the basal ganglia regions (eg, nucleus accumbens) and 73% of the remaining brain regions, emphasizing the central hub role of basal ganglia in addictive smoking behaviors. Additionally, a data-driven subnetwork, mainly involving regions from frontal and occipital lobes, showed reduced rsFC among individuals who use nicotine.

Conclusions

The results suggest significant alterations in the communication and coordination among the basal ganglia and the broader network of brain regions. The observed changes in rsFC indicate a widespread disruption in the connectivity patterns associated with nicotine use.

Implications

This study identifies rsFC subnetworks related to chronic nicotine use through whole-brain connectome analysis. The findings confirm that widespread alterations in rsFC are centered around hub nodes within the basal ganglia, including bilateral nucleus accumbens, putamen, caudate, and globus pallidus. In addition, our analysis found a clique-forming subnetwork vulnerable to tobacco smoking consisting of regions from the visual, dorsal/ventral attention, and frontoparietal networks.
(Mis)Governing World Football? Agency and (Non)Accountability in FIFA
Authors: Brett EA , Tomlinson Alan
Published: October 2024

—We identify the variables that have enabled the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) to evade internal and external legal and juridical rules and processes, allowing it to prioritise the interests of its leaders and staff rather than its stakeholders. An interdisciplinary theoretical framework highlights the weaknesses of the legal systems, democratic processes, market mechanisms and regulatory regimes governing FIFA’s activities since its foundation. The historical processes transforming FIFA into a wealthy enterprise whose leaders could abuse their power with impunity are reviewed. An evaluation of the structural reforms introduced in 2016 following the exposure of FIFA corruption by US authorities in 2015 then shows how they have strengthened the internal and external rules and procedures enabling stakeholders to hold FIFA to account, whilst arguing that the reforms have not eliminated the leadership’s ability to ‘capture’ its democratic processes, exploit its monopolistic controls over lucrative contracts and evade regulatory controls.
Buyer’s market-oriented culture, strategic procurement capability, and customer performance in the public procurement of innovations
Authors: Tammi Timo , Saastamoinen Jani , Reijonen Helen
Published: October 2024

The public procurement of innovations is a demand-side policy instrument that harnesses supplier innovations to improve products and services delivered to the customers. This study analyses a nation-wide survey of Finnish public sector contracting authorities. A sequential mediation model suggests that the public sector buyer’s market-oriented culture is positively associated with the procurer’s strategic procurement capability, which in turn predicts the use of public procurement of innovations to create customer value for customers. These results are robust to a potentially biased perception of customer performance.
Maternal depressive symptoms in and beyond the perinatal period: associations with infant and preschooler sleep.
Authors: Carter Mikaela L , Paine Sarah-Jane , Sweeney Bronwyn M , Taylor Joanne E , Signal T Leigh
Published: October 2024

Study Objectives

(1) To describe sleep in infancy and early childhood among children born to mothers with and without clinically significant depressive symptoms, and (2) to explore the relationships between maternal depressive symptoms and sleep patterns and problems during infancy and early childhood.

Methods

Secondary analysis of longitudinal data from the Moe Kura: Mother and Child, Sleep and Wellbeing in Aotearoa/New Zealand study. Data were collected in pregnancy (T1), 12 weeks postpartum (T2), and 3 years post-birth (T3). Participants were 262 Māori and 594 non-Māori mother–child dyads. Chi-square and independent t-tests measured bivariate associations between maternal mood (T1, T2, and T3) and child sleep characteristics (T2 and T3). Binary logistic regression models examined longitudinal and concurrent associations between maternal depressive symptoms and infant and preschooler sleep. Adjusted models accounted for key socio-demographic variables, as well as infant sleep variables in preschooler models.

Results

Bivariate associations were found between prior and concurrent depressive symptomology and many of the infant and preschooler sleep outcomes. In adjusted models, prenatal depressive symptoms remained independently associated with shorter-than-recommended sleep durations in preschoolers. In these models, concurrent depression was also associated with night waking, night LSRSP, and perceived sleep problems at 12 weeks postpartum, and CSHQ-determined and perceived sleep problems at 3 years post-birth.

Conclusions

Longitudinal and cross-sectional associations were found between maternal depressive symptoms and child sleep. Sleep appears to be one pathway by which maternal depression confers risk for suboptimal child health outcomes. Findings support the need for earlier and better maternal mental health services.