bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On how finite β and three-dimensional magnetic perturbations affect the instability of toroidal ion temperature gradient mode
Authors: Huang Zhangsheng , Guo Weixin , Wang Lu
Published: October 2024

The effects of finite

β

(the ratio of plasma kinetic pressure to magnetic pressure) and three-dimensional (3D) magnetic perturbations (MPs) on the instability of toroidal ion temperature gradient (ITG) mode are studied in this work. The expression of ion magnetic drift frequency

ω

d
i

modified by the effects from both finite

β

and 3D MPs is firstly derived based on the local 3D equilibrium model. Then, under the assumptions of adiabatic electrons and localized mode structure around the outboard mid-plane (

ϑ

p

=
0

), the dispersion equation of the long wavelength toroidal ITG mode with considering the parallel ion dynamics is derived and solved. The results show that the distribution of

ω

d
i

around the outboard mid-plane, including both

ω

d
i
,
0

=

ω

d
i

|

ϑ

p

=
0

and

ω

d
i
,
0

′
′

≡

(

d

2

ω

d
i

/

d

ϑ

p

2

)

|

ϑ

p

=
0

(twist parameter quantifying the degree of concave or convex of

ω

d
i

), is the key for affecting the toroidal ITG mode instability. The diamagnetic effects from finite

β

and the effects from 3D MPs can suppress the instability by reducing

|

ω

d
i
,
0

|

. Via reducing

|

ω

d
i
,
0

′
′

|

under the prerequisite of unchanged sign of

ω

d
i
,
0

′
′

, there also exist stabilization effects on the instability from 3D MPs and the modification of local magnetic shear by finite

β

effects. In addition, the stabilization effects induced by reducing

|

ω

d
i
,
0

′
′

|

are closely associated with the global magnetic shear. The mechanisms for the effects of finite

β

and 3D MPs on the instability of toroidal ITG mode revealed in this work are helpful to the comprehensive understanding of the relationship between internal kink mode induced non-axisymmetric flux surface distortion and internal transport barrier physics in tokamak plasmas.
Prediction of fishbone linear instability in tokamaks with machine learning methods
Authors: Liu Z.Y. , Qiu H.R. , Fu G.Y. , Xiao Y. , Chen Y.C. , Wang Z.J. , Wei Y.X.
Published: October 2024

A machine learning based surrogate model for fishbone linear instability in tokamaks is constructed. Hybrid simulations with the kinetic-magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) code M3D-K is used to generate the database of fishbone linear instability, through scanning the four key parameters which are thought to determine the fishbone physics. The four key parameters include (1) central total beta of both thermal plasma and fast ions, (2) the fast ion pressure fraction, (3) central value of safety factor q and (4) the radius of q = 1 surface. Four machine learning methods including linear regression, support vector machines (SVM) with linear kernel, SVM with nonlinear kernel and multi-layer perceptron are used to predict the fishbone instability, growth rate and real frequency, mode structure respectively. Among the four methods, SVM with nonlinear kernel performs very well to predict the linear instability with accuracy

≈

95
%

, growth rate and real frequency with

R
2

≈
98
%

, mode structure with

R
2

≈
98
%

.
Numerical study of the synergetic current drive by lower hybrid waves and loop voltage
Authors: Ma W.Q. , Li M.H. , Wu C.B. , Savoye-Peysson Y. , Ding B.J. , Yan G.H. , Wang M. , Liu L. , Wu Z.G. , Yan N.
Published: November 2024

Thanks to the tail of fast electrons generated by the lower hybrid (LH) waves, the plasma conductivity changes significantly with respect to the ohmic heating status (Fisch 1985 Phys. Fluids
28 245). In this paper, the synergy effects of lower hybrid current drive (LHCD) in the presence of a DC electric field (namely, the loop voltage V
loop ≠ 0) on the EAST tokamak are studied numerically using the ray tracing and Fokker–Planck tools of C3PO/LUKE. In addition to the normal case of a positive loop voltage with an asymmetric power spectrum (namely, co-current LHCD), the synergy effects of negative loop voltage with an asymmetric power spectrum (namely, counter LHCD), and positive/negative loop voltage with a symmetric power spectrum are also investigated, which are previously rarely reported. It is found that the total plasma conductivity can be increased by a factor of 1.68–2.18 (depending on the value of V
loop) when a 1.1 MW LH power at 2.45 GHz with a symmetric power spectrum is injected. Furthermore, unlike the asymmetric power spectrum, the direction of the sum of the pure LH current (I
lh0) and the synergetic current (I
ad) resulting from the variation in plasma conductivity is always in line with the ohmic current (I
oh) for a symmetric power spectrum, which is favorable for AC tokamak operation. These simulated results are helpful for LHCD applications, especially in current ramp-up and AC operation.
Preliminary study on temperature distribution and pyroelectric current of LiNbO3 heated by nanosecond pulse laser
Authors: Cao Xiang , Dai Chuqiao , Guo Zhengpeng , Zhang Tianhao , Jiang Xianlong , Ma Wei , Zou Liping , Lu Liang , Yang Zhen
Published: October 2024

In order to reduce the volume of compact neutron generators,
a lot of investigations are carried out on generating high voltages
by heating pyroelectric crystals with external heating. Laser
irradiation is an effective non-contact heating method. Different
laser parameters determine the crystal's temperature distribution,
impacting the accelerating electric field. A preliminary study on
the temperature distribution and pyroelectric current response of
LiNbO3 heated by nanosecond pulse laser is presented, including
both direct heating and heating with Cu and Ti disks adhered to the
crystal. A two-dimensional transient heat transfer and circuit model
is constructed in COMSOL. To validate the simulation model of
temperature field distribution, FLIR thermal camera is utilized to
measure the temperature in laser spot center experimentally. The
experimental results coincide with simulations, which prove that the
simulation model can predict temperature field distribution of the
pyroelectric crystal effectively. This study can benefit the
optimization of laser parameters for modulating high-quality
deuterium ion acceleration fields.
Characterization of fast ion loss in the EHL-2 spherical torus
Authors: SUN 孙 Tiantian 恬恬 , JIANG 姜 Xinchen 欣辰 , LI 李 Zhi 直 , GU 顾 Xiang 翔 , WANG 王 Xueyun 雪韵 , DONG 董 Lili 力立 , YANG 杨 Danke 丹可 , LI 李 Pengmin 鹏敏 , WANG 王 Hanqing 汉清 , LIU 刘 Shuo 硕 , LI 李 Yingying 颖颖 , XIE 谢 Huasheng 华生 , SHI 石 Yuejiang 跃江 , LIANG 梁 Yunfeng 云峰 , LIU 刘 Minsheng 敏胜 , the EHL-2 Team
Published: November 2024

This study analyzes fast ion losses in the EHL-2 fusion device, focusing on both beam ions and alpha particles as p-11B fusion reaction products. Using the Monte Carlo orbit-following code TGCO, we evaluate particle confinement under various operational scenarios, including co-injected tangential neutral beam injection at beam energies of 60 keV, 80 keV, and 200 keV. Our simulations estimate the heat load driven by lost beam ions and find it to be within acceptable material limits for a plasma current on the order of mega-amperes. Additionally, we simulate the distribution of fusion products and observe a higher particle loss fraction for alpha particles compared to beam ions. However, due to the relatively low fusion power, these lost alpha particles are unlikely to significantly impact the plasma-facing materials. To assess the impact of the magnetic ripple, we compute the ripple field distribution by modelling the toroidal field (TF) coils as current filaments. The results indicate that the ripple field effect on particle confinement is minimal, primarily due to the large distance of over 1 m between the TF coils and the plasma on the low-field side. The analysis based on the test particle model is a foundational step in ensuring the basic safety aspects of the new device, which is essential for developing a robust design, optimizing performance, and maintaining safe operation.
Enhancing urban mobility: predicting traffic congestion with optimized ML model
Authors: Pandove Gitanjali
Published: November 2024

Traffic congestion is a critical challenge in urban areas, leading to increased travel times, pollution, and a decreased quality of life. This study addresses this issue by developing a predictive model for traffic congestion using the eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) machine learning model, enhanced with hyperparameter optimization and detrending techniques. Key traffic parameters, including waiting times, vehicle angles, latitude, longitude, and speeds, are incorporated to improve the model’s accuracy. Compared to ARIMA and LSTM models, the proposed XGBoost model significantly outperforms these approaches. LSTM exhibits much higher prediction errors. The XGBoost model, with its lowest MAE (0.007), MSE (0.008), and an accuracy of 99.5%, demonstrates superior performance and efficiency. Implemented in Python using the SUMO simulator for real-time traffic data, the proposed model showcases robust predictive capabilities, contributing to smarter urban mobility solutions and improved transportation systems. These findings underscore the effectiveness of advanced machine learning techniques in predicting traffic congestion and provide valuable insights for developing smarter urban mobility solutions. The study’s contributions aim to enhance transportation systems and improve the overall quality of urban life.
The Rise of the Gok Turks and the Last Great War of Antiquity
Authors: Blachford Kevin
Published: November 2024

The Two Eyes rivalry would expand in the sixth century into new geopolitical areas as the two powers’ mutual competition would reach the Red Sea and the steppes of central Asia in a struggle for control of the silk trade from the east. The expansion of trade between east and west, as led by the nomadic Gok Turks, would become an increasing feature of the Two Eyes rivalry as each empire sought to prevent the other from gaining control of the trade in exotic goods. The Byzantines sought to bypass the Persian monopoly on the silk trade and use the Gok Turks to balance against the Persian shah. The arrival of the Gok Turks from the steppe was therefore a primary factor leading to the Last Great War of Antiquity.
No Magic in Forms
Authors: Funk Kellen R
Published: October 2024

This chapter examines what David Dudley Field considered to be the central reform of his code: the abolition of the forms of action and the institution of “fact pleading.” Because the code required “fact pleading” without defining any of its operative terms, jurists were left to puzzle out how common law and chancery had distinguished material claims from frivolous arguments and whether those methods were compatible in a fused system. Ultimately, the code’s aim to sunder substance and procedure was partially realized, but not in the way the codifiers, least of all Field, had intended. Through the slow development of case law and treatise literature, practitioners gradually came to think of the old common law pleading requirements as independent “elements” of a rights claim. In time, the practitioner’s sense inverted itself: instead of looking to pleadings to learn the law, apprentice lawyers could look to “the law” to figure out what to plead. But instead of this revolution bursting in with the passage of the code, it developed slowly, case by case, as jurists who were initially confused by the code’s lack of guidance thought back through the logic of the writ system and wrenched its principles into something like a substantive law of right.
Evaluation of real-world evidence to assess health outcomes related to deprescribing medications in older adults: an International Society for Pharmacoepidemiology-endorsed systematic review of methodology
Authors: Hayes Kaleen N , Niznik Joshua David , Gnjidic Danijela , Moriarty Frank , Tran Nha , Coe Antoinette B , Zullo Andrew R , Zhang Sirui , Alcusky Matthew , Bennett Dimitri , Hartikainen Sirpa , Laroche Marie-Laure , Li Xiojuan , Lin Joshua K , Lund Jennifer L , Sessa Maurizio , Shmuel Shahar , Sirois Caroline , Talbot Denis , Tiihonen Miia , Wen Xuerong , Sawan Mouna J , Moga Daniela C
Published: November 2024

Background: Observational studies using real-world data (RWD) can address gaps in knowledge on deprescribing medications but are subject to methodological issues. Limited data exist on the methods employed to use RWD to measure the effects of deprescribing.

Objective: To describe methodological approaches used in observational studies of deprescribing medications in older adults.

Method: We conducted a systematic review in Medline for observational studies published in English (01/01/2000-09/14/2023) that examined the health effects of medication deprescribing in older adults. We described study characteristics and methods, focusing on the operationalization of deprescribing as an exposure and potential time-related biases.

Results: Forty-five studies were included, representing a variety of drug classes (e.g., statins, aspirin, bisphosphonates) and diseases. Most studies adequately addressed potential time-related biases. The definition of deprescribing was not clearly defined in 12 studies. There was heterogeneity regarding the minimum duration of time that qualified as deprescribing, even within a drug class; fewer than one-third of studies provided a justification for these definitions.

Conclusion: Observational studies are common to examine the effects of deprescribing; however, there were inconsistencies in measuring deprescribing and a lack of transparency in reporting. There is a need for minimum sufficient reporting criteria for observational studies on deprescribing.
Unveiling the True Price: Assessing the Economic Impact of Cosmetic Surgery Tourism on a Single Tertiary Center in Bahrain
Authors: Farhan Abeer , AlMahmeed Maryam , Fakhro Abdulla
Published: November 2024

Background

In light of the escalating cost of cosmetic surgery in Bahrain, the burgeoning “Cosmetic Surgery Tourism” sector has captured the attention of many Bahrainis. Neighboring countries aggressively promote affordable packages on numerous social media platforms, luring individuals with the allure of a vacation experience. However, insufficient postoperative care abroad has far-reaching implications that jeopardize both patient well-being and the integrity of the healthcare system.

Objectives

This study aims to assess the present patterns of complications related to cosmetic surgery tourism and the resulting financial burden on the Bahraini healthcare system.

Methods

A retrospective cost analysis and chart review were performed for all patients who presented with complaints associated with cosmetic surgeries between January 2018 and September 2023. After identifying patient demographics, procedure characteristics, admission data, length of stay, and intervention needs, a comprehensive cost analysis was conducted.

Results

A total of 30 patients manifested complications. The complications associated with abdominoplasty were the most prevalent. Iran emerged as the most frequented destination, with Egypt and Turkey following in order of prevalence. Surgical-site infections constituted the most common complications. Required interventions included admission for intravenous antibiotics, hyperbaric wound care, implant removal, and critical care admission. The projected expense to the hospital was 65,970 BHD (175,000 USD), equating to an average expenditure of 2200 BHD (5852 USD) per patient.

Conclusions

The allure of cost-effective cosmetic treatments often leads to complications that impose substantial economic burdens. The study concludes with policy recommendations to balance individuals’ freedom to seek healthcare abroad with long-term sustainability and equitable access to Bahrain's healthcare system.

Level of Evidence: 5 (Risk)
Sustained germination-promoting effect of cold atmospheric plasma on spinach seeds
Authors: Nishino Seiya , Shimizu Kaori , Horie Fuko , Fukuda Shizu , Izawa Shingo
Published: October 2024

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) irradiation exhibits a sterilizing effect without causing thermal denaturation or leaving behind residual toxicants. CAP also has potential applications in various fields, including agriculture, leading to research efforts in recent years. This study investigated the effects of CAP on the seed germination rate of spinach (Spinacia oleracea), which typically has a low seed germination rate. Our results confirmed that irradiation with N2-CAP and Air-CAP significantly enhanced the germination rate of spinach seeds. Notably, we discovered that CAP irradiation promoted germination even in spinach seeds coated with a fungicide (thiuram) and a disinfectant (Captan), which are commonly used. Additionally, we examined whether the interval between CAP irradiation and the subsequent germination-induction treatment influenced the germination efficiency. We found that the germination-promoting effect of CAP on spinach seeds persisted for at least 30 days, demonstrating the high utility and practicality of CAP in the agricultural sector.
Enhancing negative control selection: A comparative analysis of random and targeted sampling techniques for obtaining High-Quality RNA from normal breast tissue
Authors: Mehta Komal , Sharma Archana , Mehta Anurag , Tayal Juhi
Published: November 2024

Molecular profiling is a crucial aspect of cancer therapy selection, underscoring the necessity for representative sampling of both tumor and normal tissues. While much attention has been given to representative tumor sampling, there has been a notable lack of exploration into the issue of poor RNA quality in normal breast tissue processing. Normal breast tissue from the same patient is often used as a negative control for most “-omics” experiments. RNA extracted from normal breast tissues frequently contains nucleic acids from surrounding adipocytes, endothelial cells, and immune cells, leading to a low representation of ductal elements and skewed results. Therefore, ensuring a complete representation of breast glandular tissue is imperative. The study aimed to investigate the variations in RNA enrichment between a random sampling technique and a targeted sampling approach when visually selecting normal breast tissue sections as negative controls for “-omics” experiments. Fifteen female breast cancer subjects who underwent Modified Radical Mastectomy were selected for the study. Normal Breast tissue was visually examined, and samples were collected from random fat pockets (random sampling) and fibromuscular grey-white streak areas (targeted sampling). RNA was isolated, followed by spectrophotometric analysis, agarose gel electrophoresis and Agilent Tape station analysis. Histopathological assessments and a gene expression study for housekeeping genes were performed on both subsets. Tissues collected through targeted sampling exhibited significantly higher RNA quality than those obtained via random sampling. Histopathological analysis revealed cellular areas abundant in terminal ductular units within the targeted samples, and a final validation qPCR showed that the targeted samples were the most representative of normal breast glandular tissue. The comparative analysis of the two sampling methods clearly indicates that the targeted approach, with its superior accuracy and reliability, is the more practical choice for obtaining representative normal breast glandular tissue for “-omics” experiments.
Reported outcomes in studies of intermittent claudication - first step toward a core outcome set: systematic review
Authors: Shwan Akam , Lamidi Segun , Chan Calvin , Daniels Elizabeth , Song-Smith Charlie , Hanna Lydia , Sounderajah Viknesh , Houghton John S M , Sayers Rob D
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This review aimed to compile an exhaustive list of all outcome measures and identify different characteristics of the outcomes reported in studies of intermittent claudication as the first step in developing a core outcome set for intermittent claudication.

Method

Medline and Embase were searched for all studies including individuals with intermittent claudication and reporting ≥1 outcome from January 2015 to August 2024. Abstract, full text screening and data extraction were performed by two investigators independently. All reported outcome measures were extracted verbatim and categorized by Dodd’s domains (Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials registration: COMIC Study, 1590; https://www.comet-initiative.org/Studies/Details/1590).

Results

4985 studies were screened and 408 were included. A total of 541 unique outcomes across 25 Dodd’s domains were identified. Ankle–brachial pressure index was the most frequently reported outcome. Among the 541 unique outcomes, 386 outcomes were only reported once. Only 38.9% of the studies exclusively included patients with intermittent claudication. Patient-reported outcomes were reported in 36.2% of studies. There were wide variations in the definition of commonly used outcome measures (for example, major adverse limb event and primary patency) across different studies.

Conclusion

There is substantial heterogeneity in reported outcomes in studies of intermittent claudication. Most reported outcomes are clinical/physiology oriented rather than patient centred. Development of a core outcome set for intermittent claudication is vital to improve and standardize reporting in future research.
Lung development genes, adult lung function and cognitive traits
Authors: Talaei Mohammad , Waters Sheena , Portas Laura , Jacobs Benjamin M , Dodd James W , Marshall Charles R , Minelli Cosetta , Shaheen Seif O
Published: November 2024

Lower lung function is associated with lower cognitive function and an increased risk of dementia. This has not been adequately explained and may partly reflect shared developmental pathways. In UK Biobank participants of European ancestry, we tested the association between lung function measures (forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 s to forced vital capacity ratio; n = 306 476) and cognitive traits including nine cognitive function test scores (n = 32 321–428 609), all-cause dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia (6805, 2859 and 1544 cases, respectively, and ∼421 241 controls). In the same population, we derived summary statistics for associations between common genetic variants in 55 lung development genes and lung function measures and cognitive traits using adjusted linear/logistic regression models. Using a hypothesis-driven Bayesian co-localization analysis, we finally investigated the presence of shared genetic signals between lung function measures and cognitive traits at each of these 55 genes. Higher lung function measures were generally associated with higher scores of cognitive function tests as well as lower risk of dementia. The strongest association was between forced vital capacity and vascular dementia (adjusted hazard ratio 0.74 per standard deviation increase, 95% confidence interval 0.67–0.83). Of the 55 genes of interest, we found shared variants in four genes, namely: CSNK2B rs9267531 (forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 s to forced vital capacity ratio with fluid intelligence and pairs matching), NFATC3 rs548092276 & rs11275011 (forced expiratory volume in 1 s to forced vital capacity ratio with fluid intelligence), PTCH1 rs2297086 & rs539078574 (forced expiratory volume in 1 s to forced vital capacity ratio with reaction time) and KAT8 rs138259061 (forced vital capacity with pairs matching). However, the direction of effects was not in keeping with our hypothesis, i.e. variants associated with lower lung function were associated with better cognitive function or vice versa. We also found distinct variants associated with lung function and cognitive function in KAT8 (forced vital capacity and Alzheimer’s disease) and PTCH1 (forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 s to forced vital capacity ratio with fluid intelligence and reaction time). The links between CSNK2B and NFATC3 and cognitive traits have not been previously reported by genome-wide association studies. Despite shared genes and variants, our findings do not support the hypothesis that shared developmental signalling pathways explain the association of lower adult lung function with poorer cognitive function.
Erythematous plaques and cervical lymphadenopathy
Authors: Lumley Rebecca C , Zidan Anoud , Attard Natalie R
Published: November 2024

We present the case of an 89-year-old patient who presented to the skin cancer screening clinic with a 2-year history of two tender erythematous lesions on the left side of the neck with underlying palpable lymphadenopathy. An incisional biopsy showed multifocal granulomatous inflammation, and an interferon-γ release assay was positive.
Zoon balanitis: not a distinct clinicopathological entity?
Authors: Watchorn Richard E , Doyle Claire , Kravvas Georgios , Bunker Christopher B
Published: November 2024

Zoon balanitis (ZB) was originally described in the 1950s in patients with clinical features resembling erythroplasia of Queyrat but with histology that demonstrated a plasma cell infiltrate without evidence of dysplasia. Subsequently, ZB has been extensively reported in the literature, reflecting widespread acknowledgement as an established distinct clinicopathological entity. However, its existence as such has been questioned, and there have been suggestions in the literature that ZB represents either a nonspecific irritant reaction pattern, or a part of the heterogeneous clinicopathological complex of male genital lichen sclerosus (MGLSc). In this study, the entire historical literature of published cases of ZB was subject to review to determine whether clinical or histological features of MGLSc had been present and been overlooked. In total, 101 papers were reviewed. Seventy-five contained images purporting to be of ZB. Images that were deemed to be of inadequate quality or to present uninformative anatomical views were excluded. The images in 66 papers were amenable to scrutiny; 98.5% of these images demonstrated clinical signs of MGLSc, such as adhesions, effacement of the coronal sulcus and the frenulum, tightening of the prepuce, constrictive posthitis, etiolation of the glans, lichenoid inflammation and sclerosis. These findings strongly suggest that ZB occurs in the vast majority of cases as a manifestation of MGLSc and that its recognition as a distinct clinicopathological entity should be questioned, if not discontinued.
Protean cutaneous manifestation caused by ABCA12 variants: erythrokeratodermia variabilis-like ichthyosis and unique palmoplantar keratoderma
Authors: Chang Chih-Yu , Yang Min-Chia , Cheng Hui-Ching , Lin Yu-Chen , McGrath John , Hsu Chao-Kai , Tu Wei Ting
Published: November 2024

ABCA12 is crucial for skin barrier function and is traditionally linked to severe congenital ichthyoses, such as harlequin ichthyosis. However, its genotype–phenotype relationship may be more nuanced. Using whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing, we identified four cases of mild ichthyosis with biallelic ABCA12 pathogenic variants. In addition to a milder phenotype, the palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK) in these cases had a distinct ‘mosaic tile-like’ pattern. Two cases with missense variants in the N-terminus of ABCA12 also presented an annular ichthyosis pattern resembling erythrokeratodermia variabilis et progressiva. Our findings suggest a correlation between ABCA12 missense variant location and clinical presentation, expanding the phenotypic spectrum associated with ABCA12 variants and highlighting the potential for annular patterns or ‘mosaic tile-like’ PPK in these patients.
Adiponectin and Risk of Psoriasis: Observational and Mendelian Randomization Studies in up to 900 000 Individuals
Authors: Nielsen Maria B , Benn Marianne , Nordestgaard Børge G , Skov Lone , Çolak Yunus
Published: October 2024

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder often associated with obesity. Adiponectin, an anti-inflammatory protein-hormone secreted by adipose tissue, may be a link between obesity and psoriasis. We hypothesized that low plasma adiponectin is associated with an increased risk of psoriasis in observational and causal genetic studies.

Methods

In observational analyses, we used information on plasma adiponectin and psoriasis in 30 045 individuals from the Copenhagen General Population Study (CGPS). In one-sample Mendelian randomization analyses, we used genetic information on adiponectin and psoriasis in 107 308 individuals from the CGPS. In two-sample Mendelian randomization analyses, we used genetic information on adiponectin from the ADIPOGen consortium and genetic information on psoriasis in 373 338 and 462 933 individuals from the FinnGen study and UK Biobank (UKB).

Results

In observational analyses, a 1-unit log-transformed higher plasma adiponectin was associated with a hazard ratio (HR) for psoriasis of 0.67 (95% confidence interval: 0.48–0.94) in an age- and sex-adjusted model but not in a multivariable adjusted model including obesity measures with a HR of 0.95 (0.66–1.35). In genetic one-sample Mendelian randomization analysis, a 1-unit log-transformed higher plasma adiponectin was not associated with a causal risk ratio for psoriasis of 1.33 (0.77–2.32) in the CGPS. In two-sample Mendelian randomization analyses, a 1-unit log-transformed higher plasma adiponectin was not associated with causal risk ratios for psoriasis of 0.96 (0.81–1.14) in FinnGen and 1.00 (1.00–1.01) in UKB.

Conclusions

Low plasma adiponectin is associated with increased risk of psoriasis in age- and sex-adjusted observational analyses; however, this was not the case after adjustment for obesity measures or in causal genetic analyses.
External validation of SCORE2-Diabetes in The Netherlands across various socioeconomic levels in native-Dutch and non-Dutch populations
Authors: Alfaraj Sukainah A , Kist Janet M , Groenwold Rolf H H , Spruit Marco , Mook-Kanamori Dennis , Vos Rimke C
Published: November 2024

Aims

Adults with type 2 diabetes have an increased risk of cardiovascular events (CVEs), the world’s leading cause of mortality. The SCORE2-Diabetes model is a tool designed to estimate the 10-year risk of CVE specifically in individuals with type 2 diabetes. However, the performance of such models may vary across different demographic and socioeconomic groups, necessitating validation and assessment in diverse populations. This study aims to externally validate SCORE2-Diabetes and assess its performance across various socioeconomic and migration origins in The Netherlands.

Methods and results

We selected adults with type 2 diabetes, aged 40–79 years and without previous CVE from the Extramural LUMC Academic Network (ELAN) primary care data cohort from 2007 to 2023. ELAN data were linked with Statistics Netherlands registry data to obtain information about the country of origin and socioeconomic status (SES). Cardiovascular event was defined as myocardial infarction, stroke, or CV mortality. Non-CV mortality was considered a competing event. Analyses were stratified by sex, Dutch vs. other non-Dutch countries of origin, and quintiles of SES. Of the 26 544 included adults with type 2 diabetes, 2518 developed CVE. SCORE2-Diabetes showed strong predictive accuracy for CVE in the Dutch population [observed-to-expected ratio (OE) = 1.000, 95% CI = 0.990–1.008 for men, and OE = 1.050, 95% CI = 1.042–1.057 for women]. For non-Dutch individuals, the model underestimated CVE risk (OE = 1.121, 95% CI = 1.108–1.131 for men, and OE = 1.100, 95% CI = 1.092–1.111 for women). The model also underestimated the CVE risk (OE > 1) in low SES groups and overestimated the risk (OE < 1) in high SES groups. Discrimination was moderate across subgroups with c-indices between 0.6 and 0.7.

Conclusion

SCORE2-Diabetes accurately predicted the risk of CVE in the Dutch population. However, it underpredicted the risk of CVE in the low SES groups and non-Dutch origins, while overpredicting the risk in high SES men and women. Additional clinical judgment must be considered when using SCORE2-Diabetes for different SES and countries of origin.

Lay summary

A new study validates the SCORE2-Diabetes model for predicting a 10-year risk of cardiovascular events in type 2 diabetes. Strong accuracy for the Dutch population, but underestimation of the risk for low SES and non-Dutch groups. SCORE2-Diabetes should be used with extra caution across diverse subgroups.
Two-year outcomes of Micra AV leadless pacemakers in the Micra AV CED study
Authors: El-Chami Mikhael F , Higuera Lucas , Longacre Colleen , Stromberg Kurt , Crossley George , Piccini Jonathan P
Published: November 2024

Aims

Leadless pacing is a safe and effective alternative to transvenous pacing for bradycardia. Micra AV is a leadless, single-device solution that provides atrioventricular synchronous ventricular pacing therapy. Early results from the Micra AV CED study showed reductions in short-term complications associated with the Micra AV leadless pacemaker among US Medicare patients. The objective of this study is to compare chronic complications, re-interventions, and all-cause mortality at 2 years between patients implanted with a Micra AV leadless pacemaker and a traditional dual-chamber transvenous (DC-TV) pacemaker.

Methods and results

Patients implanted with a Micra AV leadless pacemaker (n = 7552) or a DC-TV pacemaker (n = 110 558) in 2020 and 2021 were identified using device registration-linked Medicare administrative claims data. Competing risk models compared the unadjusted and propensity score overlap weight–adjusted complication, re-intervention, and all-cause mortality rates of Micra AV and DC-TV patients at 2 years. Micra AV patients had significantly more comorbidities (end-stage renal disease 14.9 vs. 2.0%, P < 0.0001; renal dysfunction 47.9 vs. 34.2%, P < 0.0001; diabetes 46.2 vs. 38.3%, P < 0.001; congestive heart failure 41.4 vs. 30.6%, P < 0.0001). Two years post-implant, Micra AV patients had lower complication rates [adjusted 5.3 vs. 9.6%, hazard ratio (HR): 0.54, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.49–0.61, P < 0.0001] and lower re-intervention rates (adjusted 3.5 vs. 5.6%, HR: 0.62, 95% CI 0.54–0.72, P < 0.0001) than DC-TV patients. Upgrades to cardiac resynchronization therapy were low in both groups (adjusted 1.6 vs. 1.7%, P = 0.40), as were Micra AV upgrades to a dual-chamber system (adjusted 1.4%). All-cause mortality rates remained higher in Micra AV than in DC-TV patients (unadjusted HR: 2.48, 95% CI 2.35–2.62, P < 0.0001; adjusted HR: 1.53, 95% CI 1.44–1.62, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Patients implanted with Micra AV had lower complications and re-intervention rates at 2 years than patients implanted with a traditional DC-TV pacemaker. All-cause mortality remained higher in Micra AV patients, likely due to their higher comorbidity burden and other differences in baseline characteristics.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT04235491
Is the period of austerity in the UK associated with increased rates of adverse birth outcomes?
Authors: Watson Rachael , Walsh David , Scott Sonya , Carruthers Jade , Fenton Lynda , McCartney Gerry , Moore Emily
Published: November 2024

Hugely concerning changes to health outcomes have been observed in the UK since the early 2010s, including reductions in life expectancy and widening of inequalities. These have been attributed to UK Government ‘austerity’ policies which have profoundly affected poorer populations. Studies in mainland Europe have shown associations between austerity and increases in adverse birth outcomes such as low birthweight (LBW). The aim here was to establish whether the period of UK austerity was also associated with higher risks of such outcomes. We analysed all live births in Scotland between 1981 and 2019 (n = 2.3 million), examining outcomes of LBW, preterm birth (PB) and small-for-gestational-age (SGA). Descriptive trend analyses, segmented regression (to identify changes in trends) and logistic regression modelling (to compare risk of outcomes between time periods) were undertaken, stratified by infant sex and quintiles of socioeconomic deprivation. There were marked increases in LBW and PB rates in the austerity period, particularly in the most deprived areas. However, rates of SGA decreased, suggesting prematurity as the main driver of LBW rather than intrauterine growth restriction. The regression analyses confirmed these results: trends in LBW and PB changed within 1–3 years of the period in which austerity was first implemented, and that period was associated with higher risk of such outcomes in adjusted models. The results add to the European evidence base of worsening birth outcomes associated with austerity-related economic adversity. The newly elected UK government needs to understand the causes of these changes, and the future implications for child and adult health.
Ecological processes shaping highly connected bacterial communities along strong environmental gradients
Authors: Wu Wenxue , Hsieh Chih-hao , Logares Ramiro , Lennon Jay T , Liu Hongbin
Published: October 2024

Along the river–sea continuum, microorganisms are directionally dispersed by water flow while being exposed to strong environmental gradients. To compare the two assembly mechanisms that may strongly and differently influence metacommunity dynamics, namely homogenizing dispersal and heterogeneous selection, we characterized the total (16S rRNA gene) and putatively active (16S rRNA transcript) bacterial communities in the Pearl River–South China Sea Continuum, during the wet (summer) and dry (winter) seasons using high-throughput sequencing. Moreover, well-defined sampling was conducted by including freshwater, oligohaline, mesohaline, polyhaline, and marine habitats. We found that heterogeneous selection exceeded homogenizing dispersal in both the total and active fractions of bacterial communities in two seasons. However, homogeneous selection was prevalent (the dominant except in active bacterial communities during summer), which was primarily due to the bacterial communities’ tremendous diversity (associated with high rarity) and our specific sampling design. In either summer or winter seasons, homogeneous and heterogeneous selection showed higher relative importance in total and active communities, respectively, implying that the active bacteria were more responsive to environmental gradients than were the total bacteria. In summary, our findings provide insight into the assembly of bacterial communities in natural ecosystems with high spatial connectivity and environmental heterogeneity.
Thousands of trait-specific KASP markers designed for diverse breeding applications in rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: Steele Katherine , Quinton-Tulloch Mark , Vyas Darshna , Witcombe John
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to broaden applicability of KASP for Oryza sativa across diverse genotypes through incorporation of ambiguous (degenerate) bases into their primer designs and to validate 4,000 of them for genotyping applications. A bioinformatics pipeline was used to compare 129 rice genomes from 89 countries with the indica reference genome R498 and generate ∼1.6 million KASP designs for the more common variants between R498 and the other genomes. Of the designs, 98,238 were for predicted functional markers. Up to 5 KASP each for 1,024 breeder-selected loci were assayed in a panel of 178 diverse rice varieties, generating 3,366 validated KASP. The 84% success rate was within the normal range for KASP demonstrating that the ambiguous bases do not compromise efficacy. The 3,366-trait-specific marker panel was applied for population structure analysis in the diversity panel and resolved them into 4 expected groups. Target variations in 13 genomes used for designs were compared with the corresponding KASP genotypes in different accessions of the same 13 varieties in the diversity panel. There was agreement for 79% or more markers in 12 varieties; 10 having agreement >88%. One variety, a selection from a landrace, had only 46.5% marker agreement. Breeders can search for the validated KASP and more than a million so-far untested designs in three reference genomes (including Niponbare MSU7) with a search tool, that includes designs in proximity to previously published microsatellite markers, and retrieve target variations for 129 rice genomes plus their genomic locations with ±25 bp flanking sequences.
Commercial inpatient hospital price growth driven by system affiliation and nonprofit-status hospitals
Authors: Chang Jessica Y , Martin Kathryn
Published: November 2024

As policymakers continue to grapple with rising health care costs and prices, understanding trends and variations in inpatient prices among hospital characteristics is an important benchmark to allow policymakers to craft targeted policies. In this study, we provide descriptive trends on variation in inpatient prices paid by commercial health plans stratified by hospital characteristics using data from Health Care Cost Institute's employer-sponsored insured claims data. Our analyses found evidence of considerable variation among inpatient price levels and growth among system affiliation and profitability. Prices among system-affiliated hospitals grew from $14 281.74 in 2012 to $20 731.95 in 2021, corresponding to a 45.2% increase during this period. On the other hand, prices among independent hospitals grew more slowly, from $13 460.50 in 2012 to $18 196.90 in 2021, corresponding to a 35.2% increase. We did not observe a similar trend in growth rates among case mix index by hospital characteristics, implying that differential inpatient price growth is not driven by changes in case mix by hospital characteristics. Heterogeneity in hospital prices and price growth by type of hospital suggests that public and private policymakers aiming to rein in health spending should consider policies that address this variation.
The long-term effects of cash transfer programmes on young adults’ mental health: a quasi-experimental study of Colombia, Mexico, and South Africa
Authors: Zimmerman Annie , Avendano Mauricio , Lund Crick , Araya Ricardo , Diaz Yadira , Sanchez-Ariza Juliana , Hessel Philipp , Garman Emily , Evans-Lacko Sara
Published: November 2024

Poverty is associated with poorer mental health in early adulthood. Cash transfers (CTs) have been shown to improve child health and education outcomes, but it is unclear whether these effects may translate into better mental health outcomes as children reach young adulthood. Using a quasi-experimental approach that exploits variation across countries in the timing of national CT programme introduction, we examine whether longer exposure to CTs during childhood (0–17 years) reduces depressive symptoms in early adulthood (18–30 years). Based on harmonized data from Colombia, Mexico, and South Africa (N = 14 431), we applied logistic regression models with country and birth-cohort fixed effects to estimate the impact of cumulative years of CT exposure on mental health, educational attainment, and employment outcomes. Our findings indicate that each additional year of CT exposure during childhood is associated with a 4% reduction in the odds of serious depressive symptoms in early adulthood [odds ratio (OR) = 0.96, 95% confidence intervals (CIs): 0.93, 0.98]. We find no consistent effect of years of exposure on completion of secondary school (OR = 1.01, 95% CIs: 0.99, 1.03) and a negative effect on the probability of employment in early adulthood (OR = 0.90, 95% CIs: 0.88, 0.91). These results suggest that longer exposure to CTs may contribute to modest but meaningful reductions in population-level depressive symptoms during early adulthood.
Genome-wide analysis of non-coding RNA reveals the role of a novel miR319c for tuber dormancy release process in potato
Authors: Liu Shengyan , Yang Jiangwei , Zhang Ning , Si Huaijun
Published: October 2024

Tuber dormancy and sprouting are significant for potato cultivation, storage, and processing. Although the substantial role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in some biological processes has been recognized, the critical role of miRNA in breaking potato tuber dormancy is not well understood to date. In this investigation, we expand research on miRNA-mediated gene regulation in tuber dormancy release. In this work, 204 known and 192 novel miRNAs were identified. One hundred thirty-six differentially expressed miRNAs (DE-miRNAs) were also screened out, of which 56 DE-miRNAs were regulated by temperature during tuber dormancy release. Additionally, degradome sequencing revealed that 821 target genes for 202 miRNAs were discovered. Among them, 63 target genes and 48 miRNAs were predicted to be involved in plant hormone signaling pathways. This study used degradome sequencing, tobacco cotransformation system, and β-glucuronidase (GUS) staining technology to confirm that stu-miR319c can target StTCP26 and StTCP27 and effectively suppress their expression. The transgenic approach exhibited that stu-miR319c overexpressed tubers sprouted in advance, while silent expression of stu-miR319c showed delayed sprouting. Treatment of wild-type tubers with exogenous MeJA revealed that 1 mg/L MeJA significantly broke dormancy and enhanced potato sprouting ability. Furthermore, transgenic tubers revealed variance in jasmonic acid (JA) content and relative expression of genes associated with the JA synthesis pathway, including StAOC, StLOX2, and StLOX4, suggesting that the miR319c may participate in the JA pathway to regulate tuber dormancy release. In summary, our research offers evidence that miRNA regulates potato dormancy release and supports the idea that stu-miR319c is a unique epigenetic regulator for dormancy-sprouting transition in potatoes.
The evolution of soft balancing in informal institutions: the case of BRICS
Authors: Papa Mihaela , Han Zhen
Published: October 2024

The concept of soft balancing emerged in 2005 to analyse how states engage in non-military balancing against the United States. By 2025, soft balancing has become extensively discussed in the context of BRICS, which has evolved from a loose grouping of diverse powers into an active, complex and rapidly growing entity. However, scholars remain divided on the nature and drivers of soft balancing within BRICS. How has BRICS developed into a robust soft balancing coalition? This article uses insights from compensatory layering—a process where transformative change occurs through sequential bargains over institutional design—to demonstrate how BRICS builds soft balancing collaborations, selectively institutionalizes some cooperative activities, and expands its scope to include both soft balancing and non-soft balancing elements. It clarifies balancing and non-balancing behaviours within BRICS, providing new insights into soft balancing in contemporary power dynamics. The study shows how states centre their cooperation around a specific informal institution, enabling effective soft balancing outcomes.