bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Algorithm for Eliminating Mismatch
Authors: Liu Xuan-ang
Published: September 2023

Aiming at the problems of mismatching and low matching efficiency in the process of monocular initialization of visual SLAM, this paper proposes an improved initialization method. Based on the ORB-SLAM2 algorithm, the concept of probability statistics is introduced in its monocular initialization process. By adding a moving grid before the RANSAC algorithm eliminates the mismatching, the region where the feature matching is most likely to be true is found, and the mismatching is eliminated in this region. Finally, a geometric constraint is carried out to retain the correct matching to the greatest extent, thus speeding up the feature matching and retaining more interior points. In this paper, the improved ORB-SLAM2 algorithm is verified in the TUM data set. The experimental results show that the initialization time of the improved algorithm is reduced and the trajectory accuracy is improved. Applying the improved algorithm to the AGV car has good accuracy and robustness in the real factory environment.
Machine learning-based target prediction for terrorist attacks
Authors: Pan Xiaohui , Zhang Tao
Published: September 2023

To address the problem that terrorist attacks are frequent and attack targets are widely difficult to predict, we use multidimensional features of terrorist attacks to predict terrorist targets based on a quantitative statistical analysis of data in the global terrorism database (GTD) from 1970 to 2019. In this paper, a machine learning-based prediction model (i.e., a classifier framework) is proposed. The model pre-processes GTD data and uses the OneHotEncoder and KBinsDiscretizer methods for data category transformation, classifies terrorist targets by four algorithms—SVM, decision trees, KNN and DNN. Each algorithm was trained with their parameters optimised, and the performance of the proposed model was tested and evaluated. The experimental results show that the prediction model achieved good performance in predicting the attack targets. The neural network had the best prediction performance in predicting twenty-two attack targets with 100% accuracy, indicating that the proposed model is accurate and effective.
Research on video sensor networks coverage optimization method in obstacle scene
Authors: Zhang Yulan
Published: September 2023

Aiming at the presence of obstacles when monitoring wild animals in the forest, an obstacle avoidance method is introduced, and a video sensor networks coverage optimization algorithm for virtual force affected by obstacles fused to an immune clone particle swarm is proposed. The algorithm adjusts locally through virtual forces to reduce the overlapping area and then uses the immune cloning particle swarm algorithm to optimize the global nodes to improve the coverage of nodes in the obstacle scene. The simulation results show that the algorithm proposed in this paper can improve the coverage of nodes.
Detection of Oriented Scene Text in Natural Images
Authors: Hong Yu
Published: September 2023

Recently, in the field of computer vision, people are paying more attention to extracting and understanding text information in natural scenes, which are widely used in real life, such as image OCR, image retrieval, and multi-language translation. Text detection plays a vital role in the process of text information extraction and understanding. Diverse text patterns and highly cluttered backgrounds are the main challenges of precise text detection. This paper studies oriented scene text detection, the horizontal scene text detector, and CTPN network architecture, which is improved and extended for oriental scene text detection. The main proposed improvements include: 1. The pre-processing method and parameter setting in the post-processing are improved to make the annotation more accurate; 2. The anchor mechanism is improved by setting a series of different anchor widths depending on the anchor heights instead of the fixed width. The improved model was trained with the training set of ICDAR2015 and part of ICDAR2017 MLT. Then it was tested on the ICDAR online platform with test sets of ICDAR2013 and ICDAR2015. Finally, it was tested with some images outside the datasets. The results show that the improved model can detect text with a tilt angle more precisely.
Test of streaming and triggered readout schemes for the TPEX lead tungstate calorimeter
Authors: Friščić I. , Cline E. , Bernauer J.C. , Hasell D.K. , Johnston R. , Lavrukhin I. , Lee S. , Moran P. , Schneekloth U.
Published: September 2023

Tests of a prototype lead tungstate calorimeter were made over two weeks at the end of September, 2019, at the DESY II Test Beam Facility in Hamburg, Germany. The purpose of these tests was to gain experience with the construction, operation, and performance of a simple lead tungstate calorimeter, and also to compare a traditional triggered readout scheme with a streaming readout approach. These tests are important for the proposed Two-Photon Exchange experiment at DESY [1] and for work towards a future electromagnetic calorimeter that could be used in an Electron-Ion Collider detector. Details on
the comparison of streaming and triggered readout schemes are presented here.
When it comes to Earth observations in AI for disaster risk reduction, is it feast or famine? A topical review
Authors: Kuglitsch Monique M , Albayrak Arif , Luterbacher Jürg , Craddock Allison , Toreti Andrea , Ma Jackie , Vilela Paula Padrino , Xoplaki Elena , Kotani Rui , Berod Dominique , Cox Jon , Pelivan Ivanka
Published: September 2023

Earth observations (EOs) have successfully been used to train artificial intelligence (AI)-based models in the field of disaster risk reduction (DRR) contributing to tools such as disaster early warning systems. Given the number of in situ and remote (e.g. radiosonde/satellite) monitoring devices, there is a common perception that there are no limits to the availability of EO for immediate use in such AI-based models. However, a mere fraction of EO is actually being used in this way. This topical review draws on use cases, workshop presentations, literature, and consultation with experts from key institutes to explore reasons for this discrepancy. Specifically, it evaluates the types of EO needed to train AI-based models for DRR applications and identifies the main characteristics, possible challenges, and innovative solutions for EO. Finally, it suggests ways to make EO more user ready and to facilitate its uptake in AI for DRR and beyond.
A convolution-superposition fluence model for the Siemens HD120 multi leaf collimator with application to a 3D VMAT dose engine
Authors: Steciw Stephen
Published: September 2023

Purpose. To construct a fast-calculating fluence modelfor the Siemens HD120 multi leaf collimator (MLC) using convolution-superposition techniques, and to develop a 3D VMAT dose engine using this fluence model.  This work offers analternative to time-consuming open-source Monte Carlo simulations for thosedeveloping in-house dose-calculating software for research or clinical needs.Methods. EPID-acquired images of sweeping-window and sweeping-checker field profiles were used to commission transmission, 2 Dinterleaf leakage, and tongue-and-groove maps specific to the HD120 MLC.  These maps, along with a 2D head-scattermodel were incorporated into a convolution-superposition algorithm to provide a fluence model for the HD120 MLC. This fluence model was used to develop a 3D VMAT dose engine, where 3D pre-computed 6MV dose kernels (EGSnrc) and a 3D fluence curvature-correction map were incorporatedto calculate 3D VMAT doses in a 22 cm diameter cylindrical phantom. Four VMAT patient plans witha large range of PTV sizes (36 cc to 604 cc) were chosen to test the fluence model and dose engine. Results. Excellent agreement was observed between the simulated commissioning fields and measured EPID-responses. 2D 2%/2 mm gamma analysis yielded a 98.9% pass rate for 1 cm, 2 cm, and 4 cm sweeping-window fields. 2D 2%/2mm gamma analysis for outer/inner MLC leaves yielded 89.1%/77.0% and 95.2%/91.1% pass rates from 1 cm and 2 cm sweeping-checker fields. Mean 3%/3 mm gamma analysis showed excellent agreement between our dose engine and Eclipse (Acuros) regardless of PTV size: 98.7% pass rate, with 95.1% pass rate in the high-dose volume.  Fluence calculation times were13.6 seconds per dynamic MLC field and 1.4 minutes/arc for 3D VMAT dose on a standard PC. Conclusions. A fast-calculating convolution-superposition fluence model has been commissioned for the Siemens HD120 MLC and incorporatedinto a 3D VMAT dose engine.  This work can be used to facilitate the development of fast in-house dose-calculating software.
Characterizing Twitter chatter about temporary alcohol abstinence during “Dry January”
Authors: Russell Alex M , Montemayor Ben N , Chiang Shawn C , Milaham Plangkat J , Barry Adam E , Lin Hsien-Chang , Bergman Brandon G , Massey Philip M
Published: September 2023

With roots as a public health campaign in the United Kingdom, “Dry January” is a temporary alcohol abstinence initiative encouraging participants to abstain from alcohol use during the month of January. Dry January has become a cultural phenomenon, gaining increasing news media attention and social media engagement. Given the utility of capturing naturalistic discussions around health topics on social media, we examined Twitter chatter about Dry January and associated temporary abstinence experiences. Public tweets were collected containing the search terms “dry january” or “dryjanuary” posted between 15 December and 15 February across 3 years (2020–2). A random subsample stratified by year (n = 3145) was pulled for manual content analysis by trained coders. Final codebook accounted for user sentiment toward Dry January, user account type, and themes related to Dry January participation. Engagement metadata (e.g. likes) were also collected. Though user sentiment was mixed, most tweets expressed positive or neutral sentiment toward Dry January (74.7%). Common themes included encouragement and support for Dry January participation (14.1%), experimentation with and promotion of nonalcoholic drinks (14.0%), and benefits derived from Dry January participation (10.4%). While there is promise in the movement to promote positive alcohol-related behavior change, increased efforts to deliver the campaign within a public health context are needed. Health communication campaigns designed to inform participants about evidence-based treatment and recovery support services proven to help people quit or cut down on their drinking are likely to maximize benefits.
Sexual dimorphism and ontogenetic variation in the head shape of two neighbouring populations of the common lancehead Bothrops jararaca (Serpentes: Viperidae)
Authors: Siqueira Lucas Henrique Carvalho , Piantoni Carla , Marques Otavio Augusto Vuolo
Published: September 2023

The head is the most important element in trophic ecology among snakes. Head shape is affected by several factors, both intrinsic, such as size and sex, and extrinsic, such as geographical variation. Often, different populations are subject to different environmental conditions that are reflected in different phenotypes adapted to local conditions. Here, we investigate sexual dimorphism, ontogenetic allometry and environmental effects on head shape in two populations of Bothrops jararaca. We have found a significant effect of sex and population, with females from the highland population having a large braincase region and a more arrow-shaped head. Size increase accounted for a considerable amount of variation in shape, but the coefficient of correlation diverged between populations. Sexual dimorphism in head shape was not found in juveniles, but the ontogenetic trajectory was non-parallel between populations. Rainfall was most associated with a larger snout and reduced braincase. In the genus Bothrops, except in early stages, females often grow faster and attain larger sizes than males, which might affect head shape. Also, possible differences in diet, behaviour and ontogenetic variations between populations might be a reasonable cause of specific allometric trajectories.
Cytogenomic characterization of Euschistus (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) species and strains reveals low chromosomal and repetitive DNAs divergences
Authors: Hickmann Frederico , Soares Corrêa Alberto , Bardella Vanessa B , Milani Diogo , Clarindo Wellington R , Soares Fernanda A F , Carvalho Renata F , Mondin Mateus , Cabral-De-Mello Diogo C
Published: September 2023

Euschistus stink bugs are important pests on soybean crops, including the Neotropical representatives Euschistus heros, Euschistus crenator, and Euschistus taurulus. Despite their importance, little genomic and chromosomal information is available. Genomic and chromosomal differences can play an important role in establishing reproductive barriers between species and populations. Here we investigate the chromosomes, some repetitive DNAs, and genome sizes of three Euschistus species, including two E. heros strains (North strain-NS and South strain-SS), to address chromosomal evolution and genomic differentiation. Our data reveal conservative karyotypes and only one possible inversion among Euschistus species. Moreover, we observe Y chromosome reorganization through differential microsatellite accumulation. The nuclear genome sizes are slightly variable among species. We noticed a differential accumulation of satellite DNAs, mainly on the Y chromosome, in the two strains of E. heros. Although typical meiotic behaviour, demonstrating full compatibility, was observed in hybrids despite interference on chiasmata frequency. This data shows that chromosomal and repetitive DNAs do not prevent secondary contact between E. heros strains, contributing to genetic variability in hybrids. Therefore, we provide data about Euschistus pests and their chromosomal characteristics, representing the first step in understanding their genomic organization and evolution.
The neural representation of actions in Tourette syndrome as a window to decipher tics and their suppression
Authors: Martino Davide , Ganos Christos
Published: September 2023

This scientific commentary refers to ‘Elevated representational similarity of voluntary action and inhibition in Tourette syndrome’, by Rae et al. (https://doi.org/10.1093/braincomms/fcad224).
The interdisciplinarity of economics
Authors: Truc Alexandre , Santerre Olivier , Gingras Yves , Claveau François
Published: September 2023

Economics has the reputation to be an insular discipline with little consideration for other social sciences and humanities (SSH). Recent research (Angrist et al., 2020) challenges this perception of economics: the perception would be historically inaccurate and especially at odds with the recent interdisciplinarity of economics. By systematically studying citation patterns since the 1950s in thousands of journals, we offer the best established conclusions to date on this issue. Our results do show that the discipline is uniquely insular from a historical point of view. But we also document an important turn after the 1990s that drastically transformed the discipline as it became more open, very quickly, to the influence of management, environmental sciences and to a lesser degree, a variety of the SSH. While this turn made economics less uniquely insular, as of today economics remains the least outward-looking discipline with management among all SSH. Furthermore, unlike in the other major social sciences, the most influential journals in economics have not significantly contributed to the recent increase in the interdisciplinarity of the discipline. While economics is changing, it is too soon to claim that it has completed an interdisciplinary turn.
Positive money: progressive solution or Trojan Horse?
Authors: Etzrodt Christian
Published: September 2023

Andrew Jackson and Ben Dyson made in 2012 a proposal for banking sector reform, which aimed at eliminating the ability of commercial banks to create money. They claim that their proposal would return the monopoly of money creation to the state, would reduce the debt level in society, and in turn would end the need for expensive bail-outs of too-big-to-fail banks by taxpayers. This paper will discuss the theory-external post-Keynesian criticism of the reform proposal as well as a theory-internal criticism, which focusses on the impact of this proposal for the banks’ customers, the commercial banks and the taxpayers. The analysis will show that Jackson and Dyson’s proposal is not a progressive solution but a Trojan Horse.
Cardiovascular risk due to diabetes mellitus in patients with chronic kidney disease—prospective data from the German Chronic Kidney Disease cohort
Authors: Ruhe Johannes , Nadal Jennifer , Bärthlein Barbara , Meiselbach Heike , Schultheiss Ulla T , Kotsis Fruzsina , Stockmann Helena , Krane Vera , Sommerer Claudia , Löffler Ivonne , Saritas Turgay , Kielstein Jan T , Sitter Thomas , Schneider Markus P , Schmid Matthias , Wanner Christoph , Eckardt Kai-Uwe , Wolf Gunter , Busch Martin
Published: September 2023

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are well-known cardiovascular and mortality risk factors. To what extent they act in an additive manner and whether the etiology of CKD modifies the risk is uncertain.

Methods

The multicenter, prospective, observational German Chronic Kidney Disease study comprises 5217 participants (1868 with DM) with a baseline mean estimated glomerular filtration rate of 30–60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and/or proteinuria >0.5 g/day. We categorized patients whose CKD was caused by cardiovascular or metabolic diseases (CKDcvm) with and without DM, as opposed to genuine CKD (CKDgen) with and without DM. Recorded outcomes were first events of non-cardiovascular and cardiovascular death, 4-point major adverse cardiovascular events (4-point MACE) and hospitalization for heart failure (HHF).

Results

During the 6.5-year follow-up 603 (12%) non-cardiovascular and 209 (4%) cardiovascular deaths, 645 (12%) 4-point MACE, and 398 (8%) HHF were observed, most frequently in patients with DM having CKDcvm. DM increased the risk of non-cardiovascular [hazard ratio (HR) 1.92; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.59–2.32] and cardiovascular (HR 2.25; 95% CI 1.62–3.12) deaths, 4-point MACE (HR 1.93; 95% CI 1.62–2.31) and HHF (HR 1.87; 95% CI 1.48–2.36). Mortality risks were elevated by DM to a similar extent in CKDcvm and CKDgen, but for HHF in CKDcvm only (HR 2.07; 95% CI 1.55–2.77). In patients with DM, CKDcvm (versus CKDgen) only increased the risk for HHF (HR 1.93; 95% CI 1.15–3.22).

Conclusions

DM contributes to cardiovascular and mortality excess risk in patients with moderate to severe CKD in both, CKDcvm and CKDgen. Patients with DM and CKDcvm are particularly susceptible to HHF.
Contrast-associated acute kidney injury and cardiovascular events: a secondary analysis of the PRESERVE cohort
Authors: Murugan Raghavan , Boudreaux-Kelly Monique Y , Kellum John A , Palevsky Paul M , Weisbord Steven
Published: September 2023

Background

Contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) has been associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular (CV) events. We studied the risk of CV events in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients undergoing angiography and whether biomarkers can predict such events. We also explored whether CA-AKI mediates the association of pre-angiography estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) on CV events.

Methods

We analysed participants from the Prevention of Serious Adverse Events following the Angiography (PRESERVE) trial. Urinary tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase [TIMP]-2 and insulin growth factor binding protein [IGFBP]-7, plasma brain-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and serum cardiac troponin-I (Tn-I) were assayed before and after angiography. We assessed the composite risk of CV events by day 90.

Results

Of the 922 participants, 119 (12.9%) developed CV events, and 73 (7.9%) developed CA-AKI. Most cases of CA-AKI (90%) were stage 1. There were no differences in urinary [TIMP-2]•[IGFBP7] concentrations or the proportion of patients with CA-AKI among those with and without CV events. Higher BNP, Tn-I, and hs-CRP were associated with CV events, but their discriminatory capacity was modest (AUROC <0.7). CA-AKI did not mediate the association of the pre-angiography eGFR on CV events.

Conclusions

Most episodes of CA-AKI are stage 1 AKI and are not associated with CV events. Less severe CA-AKI episodes also did not mediate the risk of pre-angiography eGFR on CV events. Our findings suggest that most CV events after contrast procedures are due to underlying CKD and CV risk factors rather than less severe CA-AKI episodes and should help enhance the utilization of clinically indicated contrast procedures among high-risk patients with CKD. Further research is required to examine whether moderate-to-severe CA-AKI episodes are associated with CV events.
Head-to-Head Comparison of Two Plasma Phospho-tau Assays in Predicting Conversion of Mild Cognitive Impairment to Dementia
Authors: Lehmann Sylvain , Schraen-Maschke Susanna , Vidal Jean-Sébastien , Delaby Constance , Blanc Frédéric , Paquet Claire , Allinquant Bernadette , Bombois Stéphanie , Gabelle Audrey , Hanon Olivier
Published: September 2023

Background

Among blood biomarkers, phospho-tau181 (pTau181) is one of the most efficient in detecting Alzheimer disease across its continuum. However, transition from research to routine clinical use will require confirmation of clinical performance in prospective cohorts and evaluation of cofounding factors.

Methods

Here we tested the Lumipulse assay for plasma pTau181 in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) participants from the Baltazar prospective cohort. We compared the performance of this assay to the corresponding Simoa assay for the prediction of conversion to dementia. We also evaluated the association with various routine blood parameters indicative of comorbidities.

Results

Lumipulse and Simoa gave similar results overall, with hazard ratios for conversion to dementia of 3.48 (95% CI, 2.23–5.45) and 3.70 (95%CI, 2.39–5.87), respectively. However, the 2 tests differ somewhat in terms of the patients identified, suggesting that their use may be complementary. When combined with age, sex, and apolipoprotein E (APOE)ε4 status, areas under the curves for conversion detection were 0.736 (95% CI, 0.682–0.791) for Lumipulse and 0.733 (95% CI, 0.679–0.788) for Simoa. Plasma pTau181 was independently associated with renal dysfunction (assessed by creatinine and glomerular filtration) for both assays. Cardiovascular factors (adiponectin and cholesterol), nutritional, and inflammatory markers (total protein content, C-reactive protein) also impacted plasma pTau181 concentration, although more so with the Simoa than with the Lumipulse assay.

Conclusions

Plasma pTau181 measured using the fully automated Lumipulse assay performs as well as the Simoa assay for detecting conversion to dementia of MCI patients within 3 years and Lumipulse is less affected by comorbidities. This study suggests a pathway to routine noninvasive in vitro diagnosis-approved testing to contribute to the management of Alzheimer disease.

Clinicaltrials.gov Registration Number

NCT01315639
Does the AVNeo valve reduce wall stress on the aortic wall? A cardiac magnetic resonance analysis with 4D-flow for the evaluation of aortic valve replacement with the Ozaki technique
Authors: Pirola Sergio , Pirola Selene , Mastroiacovo Giorgio , Bonomi Alice , Manchester Emily L , Fisichella Serena M , Maragna Riccardo , Baggiano Andrea , Mushtaq Saima , Muscogiuri Giuseppe , Guglielmo Marco , Yun Xu Xiao , Pontone Gianluca , Polvani Gianluca
Published: September 2023

OBJECTIVES

Aortic valve neocuspidalization aims to replace the 3 aortic cusps with autologous pericardium pre-treated with glutaraldehyde, and it is a surgical alternative to the classical aortic valve replacement (AVR). Image-based patient-specific computational fluid dynamics allows the derivation of shear stress on the aortic wall [wall shear stress (WSS)]. Previous studies support a potential link between increased WSS and histological alterations of the aortic wall. The aim of this study is to compare the WSS of the ascending aorta in patients undergoing aortic valve neocuspidalization versus AVR with biological prostheses.

METHODS

This is a prospective nonrandomized clinical trial. Each patient underwent a 4D-flow cardiac magnetic resonance scan after surgery, which informed patient-specific computational fluid dynamics models to evaluate WSS at the ascending aortic wall. The adjusted variables were calculated by summing the residuals obtained from a multivariate linear model (with ejection fraction and left ventricle outflow tract-aorta angle as covariates) to the mean of the variables.

RESULTS

Ten patients treated with aortic valve neocuspidalization were enrolled and compared with 10 AVR patients. The aortic valve neocuspidalization group showed a significantly lower WSS in the outer curvature segments of the proximal and distal ascending aorta as compared to AVR patients (P = 0.0179 and 0.0412, respectively). WSS levels remained significantly lower along the outer curvature of the proximal aorta in the aortic valve neocuspidalization population, even after adjusting the WSS for the ejection fraction and the left ventricle outflow tract-aorta angle [2.44 Pa (2.17–3.01) vs 1.94 Pa (1.72–2.01), P = 0.02].

CONCLUSIONS

Aortic valve neocuspidalization hemodynamical features are potentially associated with a lower WSS in the ascending aorta as compared to commercially available bioprosthetic valves.
Development and implementation of a continuing care program for patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities in family medicine
Authors: Stephens Mary M , Casola Allison R , Cooper Emma T , Rea Olivia , Roseman Karin
Published: September 2023

In the United States, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) consistently experience health disparities. One factor is limited access to quality healthcare services equipped to meet the needs of those with IDD, particularly as they transition to adulthood. The purpose of this work is to describe the development and implementation of Jefferson’s Continuing Care Program (JCCP), which was designed to address this care gap. We share how the idea, logistics, and support for the clinic were developed; how JCCP was designed to be uniquely accessible both via physical space and clinic flow; and how those challenges encountered have been crucial for fine-tuning optimal patient care. Since its inception in 2019, JCCP has made large strides towards educating the next generation of medical providers to care for patients with IDD. Looking to the future, JCCP plans to broaden its impact by serving more patients, continuing our advocacy and education work, and continuing to adapt to the needs of our community.
Initial type and abundance of cyanobacteria determine morphotype development of phototrophic ecosystems
Authors: Joosten Esmee Desirée , Hamelin Jérôme , Milferstedt Kim
Published: September 2023

Phototrophic aggregates containing filamentous cyanobacteria occur naturally, for example, as cryoconite on glaciers and microbialites in fresh or marine waters, but their formation is not fully understood. Laboratory models are now available to reproduce aggregation, that is, the formation of different morphotypes like hemispheroids, microbial mats or sphere-like aggregates we call photogranules. In the model, activated sludge as starting matrix is transformed into aggregates enclosed by a phototrophic layer of growing cyanobacteria. These cyanobacteria were either enriched from the matrix or we added them intentionally. We hypothesize that the resulting morphotype depends on the type and concentration of the added cyanobacteria. When cyanobacteria from mature photogranules were added to activated sludge, photogranulation was not observed, but microbial mats were formed. Photogranulation of sludge could be promoted when adding sufficient quantities of cyanobacterial strains that form clumps when grown as isolates. The cyanobacteria putatively responsible for photogranulation were undetectable or only present in low abundance in the final communities of photogranules, which were always dominated by mat-forming cyanobacteria. We suggest that, in a temporal succession, the ecosystem engineer initiating photogranulation eventually disappears, leaving behind its structural legacy. We conclude that understanding phototrophic aggregate formation requires considering the initial succession stages of the ecosystem development.
Multi-source wavefield reconstruction combining interferometry and compressive sensing: application to a linear receiver array
Authors: Saengduean P , Snieder R , Wakin M B
Published: September 2023

Seismic interferometry (SI) is a technique that allows one to estimate the wavefields accounting for the wave propagation between seismometers, any of which can act as a virtual source (VS). Interferometry, particularly noise interferometry, has been applied to several geophysical disciplines such as passive monitoring and distributed acoustic sensing. In practice, one requires long recordings of seismic noise for noise interferometry. Additionally, one can have missing seismic interferometric traces because some receivers in seismic arrays may be absent or inoperative due to issues of receiver installation and malfunction. Thus, filling the gap of seismic interferometric profile requires wavefield reconstruction and regularization techniques. Compressive sensing (CS) is one such method that can reconstruct seismic interferometric wavefields and help mitigate the limitations by exploiting the sparsity of seismic waves. In our work, we use CS to reconstruct missing seismic interferometric wavefields. One can interpolate interferometric wavefields using correlograms provided by one VS. We call this method of reconstructing an individual VS gather single-source wavefield reconstruction. We propose an alternative technique called multi-source wavefield reconstruction, which applies CS to reconstruct multiple interferometric wavefields using a volume of VS gathers provided from all available VSs. Using numerical examples, we show that one can apply CS to recover interferometric wavefields resulting from interferometry of a linear seismic array. To exploit the sparsity of interferometric wavefields, we apply the Fourier and Curvelet transforms to the two reconstruction schemes. Using the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) to compare reconstruction of interferometric wavefields, the Fourier multi-source method improves the recovery of interferometric wavefields by approximately 50 dB compared to the Fourier and Curvelet single-source wavefield reconstructions.
Protein N-glycosylation in the bronchoalveolar space differs between never-smokers and long-term smokers with and without COPD
Authors: Venkatakrishnan Vignesh , Thomsson Kristina A , Padra Médea , Andersson Anders , Brundin Bettina , Christenson Karin , Bylund Johan , Karlsson Niclas G , Lindén Anders , Lindén Sara K
Published: September 2023

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) kills millions of people annually and patients suffering from exacerbations of this disorder display high morbidity and mortality. The clinical course of COPD is associated with dysbiosis and infections, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Glycosylation of proteins play roles in regulating interactions between microbes and immune cells, and knowledge on airway glycans therefore contribute to the understanding of infections. Furthermore, glycans have biomarker potential for identifying smokers with enhanced risk for developing COPD as well as COPD subgroups. Here, we characterized the N-glycosylation in the lower airways of healthy never-smokers (HNS, n = 5) and long-term smokers (LTS) with (LTS+, n = 4) and without COPD (LTS−, n = 8). Using mass spectrometry, we identified 57 highly confident N-glycan structures whereof 38 oligomannose, complex, and paucimannose type glycans were common to BAL samples from HNS, LTS− and LTS+ groups. Hybrid type N-glycans were identified only in the LTS+ group. Qualitatively and quantitatively, HNS had lower inter-individual variation between samples compared to LTS− or LTS+. Cluster analysis of BAL N-glycosylation distinguished LTS from HNS. Correlation analysis with clinical parameters revealed that complex N-glycans were associated with health and absence of smoking whereas oligomannose N-glycans were associated with smoking and disease. The N-glycan profile from monocyte-derived macrophages differed from the BAL N-glycan profiles. In conclusion, long-term smokers display substantial alterations of N-glycosylation in the bronchoalveolar space, and the hybrid N-glycans identified only in long-term smokers with COPD deserve to be further studied as potential biomarkers.
Unaddressed functional difficulty and care support among White, Black, and Hispanic older adults in the last decade
Authors: Li Jun , Ha Jinkyung , Hoffman Geoffrey
Published: September 2023

Unaddressed functional difficulties contribute to disparities in healthy aging. While the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is believed to have reshaped long-term care, little is known on how it has collectively altered the prevalence of older adults with functional difficulties and their use of family and formal care. This study uses nationally representative data from the Health and Retirement Study (2008–2018) to describe racial-ethnic differences in the prevalence of community-dwelling older adults who had difficulty with, but lacked assistance for, self-care, mobility, and household activities before and after the ACA. Individuals with functional difficulties accounted for about one-third of Black and Hispanic individuals, compared to one-fifth of White people. The prevalence of Black and Hispanic people with functional difficulties lacking corresponding care support was consistently 1.5 times higher than that of White people. Racial-ethnic differences disappeared only for low-income households where unaddressed difficulties were uniformly high. While formal care quantity was similar, Black and Hispanic people with functional difficulties received nearly 50% more family care than White people. These gaps between White, Black, and Hispanic older adults were persistent over time. These findings suggest that racial-ethnic gaps in aging needs and supports remain despite major health care reforms in the past decade.
New hires, adjustment costs, and knowledge transfer—evidence from the mobility of entrepreneurs and skills on firm productivity
Authors: Lappi Emma
Published: September 2023

This paper evaluates the productivity impacts and the subsequent adjustment costs associated with hiring different knowledge workers. I focus on the difference between hiring former entrepreneurs, employees who change jobs, and unemployed individuals. I am the first to evaluate the direct impact that hiring former entrepreneurs has on firm productivity and the heterogenous adjustment costs associated with the different types of new hires. I find no difference between the first-year adjustment costs of entrepreneurs and those of regular-wage employees. Hiring former entrepreneurs is a way to increase productivity after the first year of employment only if the former entrepreneurs are from the highest end of the ability distribution.
Revisiting international knowledge spillovers: the role of GVCs
Authors: Delera Michele , Foster-McGregor Neil
Published: September 2023

The diffusion of knowledge is an important determinant of economic development. International trade has been established as a key mechanism in facilitating diffusion. The rise of global value chains (GVCs) has transformed trade in recent years. Yet the role of GVCs in giving rise to knowledge spillovers remains under-explored. In this paper, we study the elasticity of industry-level total factor productivity (TFP) to technology that is imported through intermediate trade in GVCs. To do so, we combine novel input–output decomposition methods with recent insights from the literature on the factor content of trade. We focus on a panel of 32 countries and 39 sectors over the 2000–2014 period using WIOD and OECD data. We find that domestic TFP is elastic to knowledge flows arising from GVCs and that the magnitude of this effect is larger relative to all other knowledge flows. We also find that GVC participation is particularly conducive to technology upgrading in countries that are far away from the technology frontier, and that GVC-related spillovers persist over large geographical distances.
Monitoring biofilm growth and dispersal in real-time with impedance biosensors
Authors: McGlennen Matthew , Dieser Markus , Foreman Christine M , Warnat Stephan
Published: September 2023

Microbial biofilm contamination is a widespread problem that requires precise and prompt detection techniques to effectively control its growth. Microfabricated electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) biosensors offer promise as a tool for early biofilm detection and monitoring of elimination. This study utilized a custom flow cell system with integrated sensors to make real-time impedance measurements of biofilm growth under flow conditions, which were correlated with confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) imaging. Biofilm growth on EIS biosensors in basic aqueous growth media (tryptic soy broth, TSB) and an oil–water emulsion (metalworking fluid, MWF) attenuated in a sigmoidal decay pattern, which lead to an ∼22–25% decrease in impedance after 24 Hrs. Subsequent treatment of established biofilms increased the impedance by ∼14% and ∼41% in TSB and MWF, respectively. In the presence of furanone C-30, a quorum-sensing inhibitor (QSI), impedance remained unchanged from the initial time point for 18 Hrs in TSB and 72 Hrs in MWF. Biofilm changes enumerated from CLSM imaging corroborated impedance measurements, with treatment significantly reducing biofilm. Overall, these results support the application of microfabricated EIS biosensors for evaluating the growth and dispersal of biofilm in situ and demonstrate potential for use in industrial settings.

One-Sentence Summary

This study demonstrates the use of microfabricated electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) biosensors for real-time monitoring and treatment evaluation of biofilm growth, offering valuable insights for biofilm control in industrial settings.
False positive Aspergillus galactomannan assay results caused by specific parenteral nutrition
Authors: Chang Euijin , Kang Sung-Woon , Huh Jin-Won , Kim Mi-Na , Bae Seongman , Jung Jiwon , Kim Min Jae , Kim Sung-Han , Choi Sang-Ho , Lee Sang-Oh , Kim Yang Soo , Sung Heungsup , Chong Yong Pil
Published: September 2023

In September 2022, the proportion of clinically false positive results with high index values for the galactomannan (GM) assay increased dramatically in our hospital and remained high until November 2022. We aimed to identify the possible causative agent that led to the dramatic increase in false positivity in GM assay. A case-control–control study was conducted, and patients admitted to two intensive care units between September and November 2022 were included. We defined each time point at which the GM assay was conducted in a patient as an episode and classified episodes into strong-positive (≥10.0 index; case), positive (control), and negative (<0.5 index; control) groups. We compared the medications administered in three groups and measured GM levels in relevant medications, including parenteral nutrition (PN). In total, 118 episodes in 33 patients were classified into three groups. There were 46 negative, 23 positive, and 49 strong-positive episodes, and there was a significant difference in the use of Winuf® PNs (P < .001) between the three groups. Forty episodes (82%) in the strong-positive group received Winuf®, compared with three (6.5%) in the negative group and one (4.3%) in the positive group (P < .001). All samples of Winuf® PNs used in the five patients whose GM results were repeatedly strong-positive were strongly positive for GM. False positivity in GM assay can be caused by the administration of specific PNs. A thorough investigation of prescribed medications should be considered when there is an abrupt increase in the proportion of strong-positive or positive GM results.
Atovaquone exposure and Pneumocystis jirovecii cytochrome b mutations: French data and review of the literature
Authors: Bonnet Pierre L , Hoffmann Claire V , Le Nan Nathan , Bellamy Lorenn , Hoarau Gautier , Flori Pierre , Demar Magalie , Argy Nicolas , Morio Florent , Le Gal Solène , Nevez Gilles
Published: September 2023

Pneumocystis jirovecii is a transmissible fungus responsible for severe pneumonia (Pneumocystis pneumonia [PCP]) in immunocompromised patients. Missense mutations due to atovaquone selective pressure have been identified on cytochrome b (CYB) gene of P. jirovecii. It was recently shown that atovaquone prophylaxis can lead to the selection of specific P. jirovecii CYB mutants potentially resistant to atovaquone among organ transplant recipients. In this context, our objectives were to provide data on P. jirovecii CYB mutants and the putative selective pressure exerted by atovaquone on P. jirovecii organisms in France. A total of 123 patients (124 P. jirovecii specimens) from four metropolitan hospitals and two overseas hospitals were retrospectively enrolled. Fourteen patients had prior exposure to atovaquone, whereas 109 patients did not at the time of P. jirovecii detection. A 638 base-pair fragment of the CYB gene of P. jirovecii was amplified and sequenced. A total of 10 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified. Both missense mutations C431T (Ala144Val) and C823T (Leu275Phe), located at the Qo active site of the enzyme, were significantly associated with prior atovaquone exposure, these mutations being conversely incidental in the absence of prior atovaquone exposure (P < 0.001). Considering that the aforementioned hospitals may be representative of the national territory, these findings suggest that the overall presence of P. jirovecii CYB mutants remains low in France.
Observational constraints on the origin of the elements – VII. NLTE analysis of Y ii lines in spectra of cool stars and implications for Y as a Galactic chemical clock
Authors: Storm Nicholas , Bergemann Maria
Published: September 2023

Yttrium (Y), a key s-process element, is commonly used in nucleosynthesis studies and as a Galactic chemical clock when combined with magnesium (Mg). We study the applicability of the previously assumed local thermal equilibrium (LTE) line formation assumption in Y abundance studies of main-sequence and red giant stars, and probe the impact of NLTE (non-LTE) effects on the [Y/Mg] ratio, a proposed stellar age indicator. We derive stellar parameters, ages, and NLTE abundances of Fe, Mg, and Y for 48 solar analogue stars from high-resolution spectra acquired within the Gaia-ESO survey. For Y, we present a new NLTE atomic model. We determine a solar NLTE abundance of A(Y)NLTE = 2.12 ± 0.04 dex, 0.04 dex higher than LTE. NLTE effects on Y abundance are modest for optical Y ii lines, which are frequently used in Sun-like stars diagnostics. NLTE has a small impact on the [Y/Mg] ratio in such stars. For metal-poor red giants, NLTE effects on Y ii lines are substantial, potentially exceeding +0.5 dex. For the Gaia/4MOST/WEAVE benchmark star, HD 122563, we find the NLTE abundance ratio of [Y/Fe]NLTE = −0.55 ± 0.04 dex with consistent abundances obtained from different Y ii lines. NLTE has a differential effect on Y abundance diagnostics in late-type stars. They notably affect Y ii lines in red giants and very metal-poor stars, which are typical Galactic enrichment tracers of neutron-capture elements. For main-sequence stars, NLTE effects on optical diagnostic Y ii lines remain minimal across metallicities. This affirms the [Y/Mg] ratio’s reliability as a cosmochronometer for Sun-like stars.
Physical modelling of near-Earth asteroid (23187) 2000 PN9 with ground-based optical and radar observations
Authors: Dover L , Lowry S C , Rożek A , Rozitis B , Jackson S L , Zegmott T , Krugly Yu N , Belskaya I N , Fitzsimmons A , Green S F , Snodgrass C , Weissman P R , Brozović M , Benner L A M , Busch M W , Ayvazian V R , Chiorny V , Inasaridze R Ya , Krugov M , Mykhailova S , Reva I , Hibbert J
Published: September 2023

We present a physical model and spin-state analysis of the potentially hazardous asteroid (23187) 2000 PN9. As part of a long-term campaign to make direct detections of the Yarkovsky–O’Keefe–Radzievskii–Paddack (YORP) effect, we collected optical light curves of the asteroid between 2006 and 2020. These observations were combined with planetary radar data to develop a detailed shape model, which was used to search for YORP acceleration. We report that 2000 PN9 is a relatively large top-shaped body with a sidereal rotation period of 2.53216 ± 0.00015 h. Although we find no evidence for rotational acceleration, YORP torques smaller than $\sim 10^{-8}\, \rm rad\,{d}^{-2}$ cannot be ruled out. It is likely that 2000 PN9 is a YORP-evolved object, and may be an example of YORP equilibrium or self-limitation.
Convergence of small scale Ly α structure at high-z under different reionization scenarios
Authors: Doughty Caitlin C , Hennawi Joseph F , Davies Frederick B , Lukić Zarija , Oñorbe Jose
Published: September 2023

The Ly α forest (LAF) at z > 5 probes the thermal and reionization history of the intergalactic medium (IGM) and the nature of dark matter, but its interpretation requires comparison to cosmological hydrodynamical simulations. At high-z, convergence of these simulations is more exacting since transmission is dominated by underdense voids that are challenging to resolve. With evidence mounting for a late end to reionization, small structures down to the sub-kpc level may survive to later times than conventionally thought due to the reduced time for pressure smoothing to impact the gas, further tightening simulation resolution requirements. We perform a suite of simulations using the Eulerian cosmological hydrodynamics code Nyx, spanning domain sizes of 1.25 − 10 h−1 Mpc  and 5 − 80 h−1 kpc  cells, and explore the interaction of these variables with the timing of reionization on the properties of the matter distribution and the simulated LAF at z = 5.5. In observable Ly α power, convergence within 10 per cent is achieved for k < 0.1 s km–1, but larger k shows deviation of up to 20 per cent. While a later reionization retains more small structure in the density field, because of the greater thermal broadening there is little difference in the convergence of LAF power between early (z = 9) and later (z = 6) reionizations. We conclude that at z ∼ 5.5, resolutions of 10 kpc are necessary for convergence of LAF power at k < 0.1 s km–1, while higher-k modes require higher resolution, and that the timing of reionization does not significantly impact convergence given realistic photoheating.