bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Third-harmonic generation monitoring of femtosecond-laser-induced in-volume functional modifications
Authors: Bernard Olivier , Kraxner Andrea , Boukhayma Assim , Squier Jeff A. , Enz Christian , Bellouard Yves
Published: May 2023

During the last two decades, ultrafast in-volume laser-based processing
of transparent materials has emerged as a key 3D-printing method for
manufacturing a variety of complex integrated photonic devices and
micro-parts. Yet, identifying suitable laser process parameters for a
given substrate remains a tedious, time-consuming task. Using a
single laser source for both processing
and monitoring, we demonstrate a method based on in situ full-field third-harmonic generation (THG)
microscopy that exploits the properties of a low-noise CMOS imager to
rapidly identify the entire processing space, discriminating different
types of laser-induced modifications, and extracting incubation laws
governing the laser exposure process. Furthermore, we show that
full-field THG monitoring is capable of identifying parameters leading
to enhanced functional properties, such as laser-enhanced etching
selectivity. These findings enable accelerated implementations of
laser processes of arbitrarily chosen transparent materials and, due
to the rapid acquisition time (>100FPS) of the imager, closed-loop process
control.
The MAPK/ERK channel capacity exceeds 6 bit/hour
Authors: Nałęcz-Jawecki Paweł , Gagliardi Paolo Armando , Kochańczyk Marek , Dessauges Coralie , Pertz Olivier , Lipniacki Tomasz
Published: May 2023

Living cells utilize signaling pathways to sense, transduce, and process information. As the extracellular stimulation often has rich temporal characteristics which may govern dynamic cellular responses, it is important to quantify the rate of information flow through the signaling pathways. In this study, we used an epithelial cell line expressing a light-activatable FGF receptor and an ERK activity reporter to assess the ability of the MAPK/ERK pathway to transduce signal encoded in a sequence of pulses. By stimulating the cells with random light pulse trains, we demonstrated that the MAPK/ERK channel capacity is at least 6 bits per hour. The input reconstruction algorithm detects the light pulses with 1-min accuracy 5 min after their occurrence. The high information transmission rate may enable the pathway to coordinate multiple processes including cell movement and respond to rapidly varying stimuli such as chemoattracting gradients created by other cells.
Pbp1 associates with Puf3 and promotes translation of its target mRNAs involved in mitochondrial biogenesis
Authors: van de Poll Floortje , Sutter Benjamin M. , Acoba Michelle Grace , Caballero Daniel , Jahangiri Samira , Yang Yu-San , Lee Chien-Der , Tu Benjamin P.
Published: May 2023

Pbp1 (poly(A)-binding protein—binding protein 1) is a cytoplasmic stress granule marker that is capable of forming condensates that function in the negative regulation of TORC1 signaling under respiratory conditions. Polyglutamine expansions in its mammalian ortholog ataxin-2 lead to spinocerebellar dysfunction due to toxic protein aggregation. Here, we show that loss of Pbp1 in S. cerevisiae leads to decreased amounts of mRNAs and mitochondrial proteins which are targets of Puf3, a member of the PUF (Pumilio and FBF) family of RNA-binding proteins. We found that Pbp1 supports the translation of Puf3-target mRNAs in respiratory conditions, such as those involved in the assembly of cytochrome c oxidase and subunits of mitochondrial ribosomes. We further show that Pbp1 and Puf3 interact through their respective low complexity domains, which is required for Puf3-target mRNA translation. Our findings reveal a key role for Pbp1-containing assemblies in enabling the translation of mRNAs critical for mitochondrial biogenesis and respiration. They may further explain prior associations of Pbp1/ataxin-2 with RNA, stress granule biology, mitochondrial function, and neuronal health.
It’s not just about pads! Adolescent reproductive health views in Kenya: A qualitative secondary analysis
Authors: Ayieko Sylvia , Nguku Angela , Kidula Nancy
Published: May 2023

Many adolescents face barriers to accessing reproductive health care even though quality reproductive health care is a fundamental human right. The objective of this study is to understand the requests of quality reproductive health among high school girls in Kenya. We conducted a secondary analysis of qualitative data from a sub-sample of adolescent girls in Kenya who participated in theWhat Women Wantglobal campaign and analyzed interview data from key informants involved in the survey. We used pre-existing codes and current literature to design the coding framework and thematic analysis to describe emerging themes. Atlas. ti 8 was used to organize and analyze codes. Over 4,500 high school girls, ages 12 and 19 years, were included in the analysis, with 61.6% from all-girls boarding schools and 13.8% from mixed-day schools. Data from nine key informants complemented findings from the survey. Emerging themes included: 1) The need for improved menstrual health and hygiene: Sanitary towels and cleaner toilets; 2) Prevention of adolescent pregnancy: Access to contraception; 3) Respect and dignity: Participants want privacy and confidentiality; and 4) The need to address social determinants of health: Economic stability and a safe physical environment. This study indicated that adolescent high school girls have varied requests for reproductive health care and services. While menstrual health and hygiene are key issues, reproductive needs are beyond just sanitary products. The results suggest a need for targeted reproductive health interventions using a multi-sectoral approach.
Stress and resilience during pregnancy: A comparative study between pregnant and non-pregnant women in Ethiopia
Authors: Abera Mubarek , Hanlon Charlotte , Fedlu Hikma , Fewtrell Mary , Tesfaye Markos , Wells Jonathan C. K.
Published: May 2023

Background

Stress during pregnancy is associated with perturbances in maternal psychology and physiology, and results in adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes. However, little attention has been given to understand maternal stress and its potential negative consequences in many low- and middle-income countries. We aimed to investigate whether pregnancy is associated with greater stress and lower psychological resilience among women living in Jimma, Southwest Ethiopia.

Method

An institution-based comparative cross-sectional study design was implemented in Jimma University Medical Center and Jimma health centers from 15 September to 30 November 2021. Women attending antenatal care and family planning services were invited to participate in the study. Participants were interviewed using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Brief Resilience Scale (BRS), distress questionnaire-5, and the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS). Linear regression analysis was used to test associations between pregnancy (exposure) and outcomes of interest (stress and resilience scores), while adjusting for potential confounders. Stress and resilience were mutually adjusted for one another in the final model.

Results

A total of 166 pregnant and 154 non-pregnant women participated, with mean age of 27.0 SD 5.0 and 29.5 SD 5.3 years respectively. Pregnancy was associated with increased stress score by 4.1 points (β = 4.1; 95% CI: 3.0, 5.2), and with reduced resilience by 3.3 points (β = -3.3; 95% CI: -4.5, -2.2) in a fully adjusted model. In mutually-adjusted models, pregnancy was independently associated with greater stress (β = 2.9, 95% CI 1.8, 3.9) and lower resilience (β = -1.3, 95% CI: -2.5, -0.2) compared to non-pregnant women.

Conclusion

In this low income setting, pregnancy is associated with greater vulnerability in the mental health of women, characterized by greater perceived stress and diminished resilience. Context-relevant interventions to improve resilience and reduce stress could help improve the health and wellbeing of mothers, with potential benefits for their offspring.
Low LDL-C goal attainment in patients at very high cardiovascular risk due to lacking observance of the guidelines on dyslipidaemias
Authors: Vrablík Michal , Šarkanová Ivana , Breciková Katarína , Šedová Petra , Šatný Martin , Tichopád Aleš
Published: May 2023

Dyslipidemias are defined as a wide range of abnormalities of the lipid profile. Treatment guidelines recommend aiming at lowering LDL-C. We investigated the adherence of Czech cardiologists to the dyslipidaemia treatment guidelines, especially in the management of patients with high and very high cardiovascular risk. In this retrospective cross-sectional multicentric study data from medical records of 450 adults with ASCVD, enrolled between June 2021 and January 2022, were analysed. Demographics, clinical outcomes, medical history, LLT treatment and other medications were collected. The physicians were to include patients at a very high risk of ASCVD and to complete a general questionnaire on their personal therapeutic preferences. Objectively assessed, only 80% of total patients (N = 450) enrolled in the study were at very high risk of ASCVD, and 12.7% of patients were at high risk of ASCVD, respectively. In total, 55 (13.1%) patients were diagnosed with familial hypercholesterolemia, and 39.1% of them had a positive family history of ASCVD. Generally, only 20.5% of patients reached the 2019 LDL-C goals– 19.4% of very high risk patients and 28.1% of high risk patients, respectively. 61% of the physicians preferred a slow and careful up-titration of the dose, which is contradictory to the guidelines. Only 17% of the physicians increased the statin dose or added/combined/changed the treatment to achieve the LDL-C goals as soon as possible. Surprisingly, in up to 61.5% of patients at very high risk who did not meet the LDL-C goals, their physicians stated subjective satisfaction with the treatment and considered no change needed. Among very high and high risk patients receiving lipid-lowering therapy, with high treatment adherence, the LDL-C goal attainment is very low and LLT utilization is rather sub-optimal. Improving observance of the guidelines by physicians bears a substantial potential for LDL-C goal attainment and thus improving overall benefit for patients for no additional costs.
Iron deficiency and the effectiveness of the BNT162b2 vaccine for SARS-CoV-2 infection: A retrospective, longitudinal analysis of real-world data
Authors: Tene Lilac , Karasik Avraham , Chodick Gabriel , Pereira Dora I. A. , Schou Henrik , Waechter Sandra , Göhring Udo-Michael , Drakesmith Hal
Published: May 2023

Background

Iron plays a key role in human immune responses; however, the influence of iron deficiency on the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine effectiveness is unclear.

Aim

To assess the effectiveness of the BNT162b2 messenger RNA COVID-19 vaccine in preventing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and COVID-19–related hospitalization and death in individuals with or without iron deficiency.

Methods

This large retrospective, longitudinal cohort study analyzed real-world data from the Maccabi Healthcare Services database (covering 25% of Israeli residents). Eligible adults (aged ≥16 years) received a first BNT162b2 vaccine dose between December 19, 2020, and February 28, 2021, followed by a second dose as per approved vaccine label. Individuals were excluded if they had SARS-CoV-2 infection before vaccination, had hemoglobinopathy, received a cancer diagnosis since January 2020, had been treated with immunosuppressants, or were pregnant at the time of vaccination. Vaccine effectiveness was assessed in terms of incidence rates of SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmed by real-time polymerase chain reaction assay, relative risks of COVID-19–related hospitalization, and mortality in individuals with iron deficiency (ferritin <30 ng/mL or transferrin saturation <20%). The two-dose protection period was Days 7 to 28 after the second vaccination.

Results

Data from 184,171 individuals with (mean [standard deviation; SD] age 46.2 [19.6] years; 81.2% female) versus 1,072,019 without (mean [SD] age 46.9 [18.0] years; 46.2% female) known iron deficiency were analyzed. Vaccine effectiveness in the two-dose protection period was 91.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] 83.7–96.0%) and 92.1% (95% CI 84.2–96.1%) for those with versus without iron deficiency (P = 0.96). Of patients with versus without iron deficiency, hospitalizations occurred in 28 and 19 per 100,000 during the reference period (Days 1–7 after the first dose), and in 19 and 7 per 100,000 during the two-dose protection period, respectively. Mortality rates were comparable between study groups: 2.2 per 100,000 (4/181,012) in the population with iron deficiency and 1.8 per 100,000 (19/1,055,298) in those without known iron deficiency.

Conclusions

Results suggest that the BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine is >90% effective in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection in the 3 weeks after the second vaccination, irrespective of iron-deficiency status. These findings support the use of the vaccine in populations with iron deficiency.
Determining engineering properties of ultra-high-performance fiber-reinforced geopolymer concrete modified with different waste materials
Authors: Althoey Fadi , Zaid Osama , Alsulamy Saleh , Martínez-García Rebeca , de Prado Gil Jesús , Arbili Mohamed M.
Published: May 2023

Reprocessing solid waste materials is a low-cost method of preserving the environment, conserving natural resources, and reducing raw material consumption. Developing ultra-high-performance concrete materials requires an immense quantity of natural raw materials. The current study seeks to tackle this issue by evaluating the effect of various discarded materials, waste glass (GW), marble waste (MW), and waste rubber powder (WRP) as a partial replacement of fine aggregates on the engineering properties of sustainable ultra-high-performance fiber-reinforced geopolymer concrete (UHPGPC). Ten different mixtures were developed as a partial substitute for fine aggregate, each containing 2% double-hooked end steel fibers, 5%, 10%, and 15% GW, MW, and WRP. The present study assessed the fresh, mechanical, and durability properties of UHPGPC. In addition, to evaluate concrete development at the microscopic level due to the addition of GW, MW, and WRP. Spectra of X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and mercury intrusion (MIP) tests were conducted. The test results were compared to current trends and procedures identified in the literature. According to the study, adding 15% marble waste and 15% waste rubber powder reduced ultra-high-performance geopolymer concrete’s strength, durability, and microstructure properties. Even so, adding glass waste improved the properties, as the sample with 15% GW had the highest compressive strength of 179 MPa after 90 days. Furthermore, incorporating glass waste into the UHPGPC resulted in a good reaction between the geopolymerization gel and the waste glass particles, enhancing strength properties and a packed microstructure. The inclusion of glass waste in the mix resulted in the control of crystal-shaped humps of quartz and calcite, according to XRD spectra. During the TGA analysis, the UHPGPC with 15% glass waste had the minimum weight loss (5.64%) compared to other modified samples.
Induced effects of electrical muscle stimulation and visual stimulation on visual sensory reweighting dynamics during standing on a balance board
Authors: Shindo Masato , Isezaki Takashi , Koike Yukio , Aoki Ryosuke
Published: May 2023

Providing instruction cues on body motions using stimulations has the potential to induce sensory reweighting dynamics. However, there are currently very few quantitative investigations on the difference in the induced effects on the sensory reweighting dynamics between stimulation methods. We therefore investigated the difference in the induced effects of electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) and visual sensory augmentation (visual SA) on sensory reweighting dynamics during standing on a balance board. Twenty healthy participants controlled their posture to maintain the board horizontally in the balance-board task, which included a pre-test without stimulation, a stimulation test, and a post-test without stimulation. The EMS group (n = 10) received EMS to the tibialis anterior or soleus muscle based on the board tilt. The visual SA group (n = 10) received visual stimuli via a front monitor based on the board tilt. We measured the height of the board marker and calculated the board sway. Before and after the balance-board task, the participants performed static standing with their eyes open and closed. We measured postural sway and calculated the visual reweighting. The visual reweighting showed a strong negative correlation with the balance board sway ratio between the pre- and stimulation tests in the EMS group and a strong positive correlation with that in the visual SA group. Moreover, for those who reduced the balance board sway in the stimulation test, the visual reweighting was significantly different between the stimulation methods, demonstrating that the induced effect on sensory reweighting dynamics is quantitatively different depending on which method is used. Our findings suggest that there is an appropriate stimulation method to change to the targeted sensory weights. Future investigations on the relationship between sensory reweighting dynamics and stimulation methods could contribute to the proposal and implementation of new training methods for learning to control the target weights.
Interactions between physiology and behaviour provide insights into the ecological role of venom in Australian funnel-web spiders: Interspecies comparison
Authors: Duran Linda Hernández , Wilson David Thomas , Salih Mohamed , Rymer Tasmin Lee
Published: May 2023

Australian funnel-web spiders are iconic species, characterized as being the most venomous spiders in the world. They are also valued for the therapeutics and natural bioinsecticides potentially hidden in their venom molecules. Although numerous biochemical and molecular structural approaches have tried to determine the factors driving venom complexity, these approaches have not considered behaviour, physiology and environmental conditions collectively, which can play a role in the evolution, complexity, and function of venom components in funnel-webs. This study used a novel interdisciplinary approach to understand the relationships between different behaviours (assessed in different ecological contexts) and morphophysiological variables (body condition, heart rate) that may affect venom composition in four species of Australian funnel-web spiders. We tested defensiveness, huddling behaviour, frequency of climbing, and activity for all species in three ecological contexts: i) predation using both indirect (puff of air) and direct (prodding) stimuli; ii) conspecific tolerance; and iii) exploration of a new territory. We also assessed morphophysiological variables and venom composition of all species. For Hadronyche valida, the expression of some venom components was associated with heart rate and defensiveness during the predation context. However, we did not find any associations between behavioural traits and morphophysiological variables in the other species, suggesting that particular associations may be species-specific. When we assessed differences between species, we found that the species separated out based on the venom profiles, while activity and heart rate are likely more affected by individual responses and microhabitat conditions. This study demonstrates how behavioural and morphophysiological traits are correlated with venom composition and contributes to a broader understanding of the function and evolution of venoms in funnel-web spiders.
HIV and its associated factors among people who inject drugs in Mizoram, Northeast India
Authors: Pachuau Lucy Ngaihbanglovi , Tannous Caterina , Chawngthu Richard Lalramhluna , Agho Kingsley Emwinyore
Published: May 2023

Aim

To estimate the prevalence and associated factors with the human immune-deficiency virus (HIV) among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Mizoram, Northeast India.

Methods

The data source for the analysis was the 2019–2020 Mizoram State AIDS Control Society (MSACS) survey from 2695 PWID registered for the Targeted Intervention (TI) services. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine the factors associated with HIV among PWID after adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, injection, and sexual behaviours.

Results

21.19% of the participants tested positive for HIV and the prevalence of HIV among male and female participants were 19.5% and 38.6%, respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that female (AOR 1.74; 95% CI 1.26–2.41), 35 years or older (AOR 1.45; 95% CI 1.06–1.99), married (AOR 1.41; 95% CI1.08–1.83), divorced/separated/widowed (AOR 2.12; 95% CI 1.59–2.82) and sharing of needle/syringe (AOR 1.62; 95% CI 1.30–2.00) were all positively associated with HIV infection. We also found that concomitant alcohol use was reduced by 35% (AOR 0.65; 95% CI 0.51–0.82) among HIV positive PWID, and HIV infection was also reduced by 46% (AOR 0.54; 95% CI 0.44–0.67) among those PWID who use a condom with a regular partner.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggested that there is a high prevalence of HIV among PWID with 1 in 5 PWID reported to have HIV. HIV among PWID was significantly higher among those over 35 years of age, females and divorced/separated/widowed participants. Needle/syringe sharing behaviour is an important determinant of HIV infection. The high prevalence of HIV among PWID population is multifactorial. To reduce HIV among PWID in Mizoram, interventions should target those sharing needles/syringes, females, especially those over 35 years of age and unmarried participants.
Deep learning generates custom-made logistic regression models for explaining how breast cancer subtypes are classified
Authors: Shibahara Takuma , Wada Chisa , Yamashita Yasuho , Fujita Kazuhiro , Sato Masamichi , Kuwata Junichi , Okamoto Atsushi , Ono Yoshimasa
Published: May 2023

Differentiating the intrinsic subtypes of breast cancer is crucial for deciding the best treatment strategy. Deep learning can predict the subtypes from genetic information more accurately than conventional statistical methods, but to date, deep learning has not been directly utilized to examine which genes are associated with which subtypes. To clarify the mechanisms embedded in the intrinsic subtypes, we developed an explainable deep learning model called a point-wise linear (PWL) model that generates a custom-made logistic regression for each patient. Logistic regression, which is familiar to both physicians and medical informatics researchers, allows us to analyze the importance of the feature variables, and the PWL model harnesses these practical abilities of logistic regression. In this study, we show that analyzing breast cancer subtypes is clinically beneficial for patients and one of the best ways to validate the capability of the PWL model. First, we trained the PWL model with RNA-seq data to predict PAM50 intrinsic subtypes and applied it to the 41/50 genes of PAM50 through the subtype prediction task. Second, we developed a deep enrichment analysis method to reveal the relationships between the PAM50 subtypes and the copy numbers of breast cancer. Our findings showed that the PWL model utilized genes relevant to the cell cycle-related pathways. These preliminary successes in breast cancer subtype analysis demonstrate the potential of our analysis strategy to clarify the mechanisms underlying breast cancer and improve overall clinical outcomes.
Examining retweeting behavior on social networking sites from the perspective of self-presentation
Authors: Shi Juan , Lai Kin Keung , Chen Gang
Published: May 2023

On social networking sites, people can express themselves in a variety of ways such as creating personalized profiles, commenting on some topics, sharing their experiences and thoughts. Among these technology-enabled features, retweeting other-sourced tweet is a powerful way for users to present themselves. We examine users’ retweeting behavior from the perspective of online identity and self-presentation. The empirical results based on a panel dataset crawled from Twitter reveal that, people are prone to retweet topics they are interested in and familiar with, in order to convey a consistent and clear online identity. In addition, we also examine which user groups exhibit a stronger propensity for a clear online identity, considering the practical value of these users to both social media platforms and marketers. By integrating self-presentation theory with social influence theory and social cognitive theory, we propose and confirm that users with higher value in online self-presentation efficacy and users who are more involved with the social media platform have a stronger than average propensity to maintain a consistent online identity, and thus are more likely to retweet familiar topics. These users are characterized by (1) owning a larger number of followers, (2) authoring longer and more original tweets than average, (3) being active in retweeting other-sourced posts. This study contributes to our understanding of SNS users’ retweeting behavior and adds to the emerging line of research on online identity. It also provides insights on how microblogging service providers and enterprises can promote people’s retweeting behavior.
Investigating the outcomes of virus coinfection within and across host species
Authors: Imrie Ryan M. , Walsh Sarah K. , Roberts Katherine E. , Lello Joanne , Longdon Ben
Published: May 2023

Interactions between coinfecting pathogens have the potential to alter the course of infection and can act as a source of phenotypic variation in susceptibility between hosts. This phenotypic variation may influence the evolution of host-pathogen interactions within host species and interfere with patterns in the outcomes of infection across host species. Here, we examine experimental coinfections of twoCripaviruses–Cricket Paralysis Virus (CrPV), and Drosophila C Virus (DCV)–across a panel of 25Drosophila melanogasterinbred lines and 47Drosophilidaehost species. We find that interactions between these viruses alter viral loads acrossD.melanogastergenotypes, with a ~3 fold increase in the viral load of DCV and a ~2.5 fold decrease in CrPV in coinfection compared to single infection, but we find little evidence of a host genetic basis for these effects. Across host species, we find no evidence of systematic changes in susceptibility during coinfection, with no interaction between DCV and CrPV detected in the majority of host species. These results suggest that phenotypic variation in coinfection interactions within host species can occur independently of natural host genetic variation in susceptibility, and that patterns of susceptibility across host species to single infections can be robust to the added complexity of coinfection.
Impact of technostress on work-life balance
Authors: Bencsik Andrea , Juhasz Timea
Published: May 2023

One of the many factors that contribute to the success of an organisation is the use of professional information technology (ICT). The pandemic situation of recent years has highlighted the benefits of using state-of-the-art ICT. However, exploring the negative consequences is a less popular topic. The aim of this research is to identify the most significant risks factors of technostress that threaten the balanced performance of employees at work and the possibility of work-life balance. In 2021, statistical correlations between risk factors for technostress were identified using SPSS 26, based on the opinions of 237 Hungarian higher education staff. Using SPSS AMOS 27, a proprietary model was built to test the impact of the most serious risks on personal and work life. The results show that three factors have the greatest impact on work-life balance, which also affect organisational performance. Loss of leisure time due to techno-overload and techno-invasion, and a feeling of techno-uncertainty due to lack of ICT competence cause a sense of threat. These compromise work-life balance and, at the same time, work performance. The mutually reinforcing negative effects influence the sense of well-being (happiness) at work, the feeling of job security and force employees to learn continuously.
Biochemical Mechanisms and Biomechanical Dynamics of Venous Thrombosis Formation and Maturation
Authors: Stibbs Peter
Published: May 2023

Venous thrombosis, characterized by blood clot formation within the veins, is a critical health concern globally. This article delves into the complex biochemical, physiological, and biomechanical mechanisms behind venous thrombosis formation, adherence, maturation, and viscoelasticity alterations during its transition from acute to chronic stages. Understanding these processes can contribute to the development of enhanced therapeutic strategies.
Rate of Colectomy Increases Within 12 Months of Sequential Therapy for Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Barnes Edward L. , Zhang Xian , Long Millie D. , Herfarth Hans H. , Kappelman Michael D.
Published: May 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Patients with medically refractory ulcerative colitis who previously would have undergone surgery can now elect for subsequent medical therapy.

METHODS:

In a commercially insured population, we evaluated the proportion of patients initiating second-line, third-line, or fourth-line treatment who underwent colectomy in the following 12 months.

RESULTS:

Among 3,325 patients with ulcerative colitis, the colectomy rate within 12 months of a switch in therapy increased from 12% with the first switch to 17% and 19% with the second and third switches, respectively (P < 0.001).

DISCUSSION:

Treatment effectiveness declines with successive switching; however, even after initiating fourth-line therapy, most patients remain surgery-free.
Revised Algorithmic Approach to Differentiate Between Nonspecific and Specific Etiologies of Chronic Terminal Ileitis
Authors: Sachdeva Karan , Agarwal Samagra , Kumar Peeyush , Mathew David , Kurrey Lalit , Vuyyuru Sudheer K. , Kante Bhaskar , Sahu Pabitra , Mundhra Sandeep , Virmani Shubi , Mouli Pratap , Dhingra Rajan , Sharma Raju , Das Prasenjit , Makharia Govind , Kedia Saurabh , Ahuja Vineet
Published: May 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Chronic isolated terminal ileitis (TI) may be seen in Crohn's disease (CD) and intestinal tuberculosis (ITB) in addition to other etiologies that may be managed symptomatically. We developed a revised algorithm to distinguish patients with a specific etiology from a nonspecific etiology.

METHODS:

Patients with chronic isolated TI followed up from 2007 to 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. A specific (ITB or CD) diagnosis was made based on standardized criteria, and other relevant data were collected. Using this cohort, validation of a previously suggested algorithm was conducted. Furthermore, based on the results of a univariate analysis, a multivariate analysis with bootstrap validation was used to develop a revised algorithm.

RESULTS:

We included 153 patients (mean age 36.9 ± 14.6 years, males—70%, median duration—1.5 years, range: 0–20 years) with chronic isolated TI of whom 109 (71.2%) received a specific diagnosis (CD-69, ITB-40). On multivariate regression and validation statistics with a combination of clinical, laboratory, radiological, and colonoscopic findings, an optimism corrected c-statistic of 0.975 and 0.958 was obtained with and without histopathological findings, respectively. Revised algorithm, based on these, showed sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and overall accuracy of 98.2% (95% CI: 93.5–99.8), 75.0% (95% CI: 59.7–86.8), 90.7% (95% CI: 85.4–94.2), 94.3% (95% CI: 80.5–98.5) and 91.5%(95% CI:85.9–95.4), respectively. This was more sensitive and specific than the previous algorithm (accuracy 83.9%, sensitivity 95.5%, and specificity 54.6%).

DISCUSSION:

We developed a revised algorithm and a multimodality approach to stratify patients with chronic isolated TI into specific and nonspecific etiologies with an excellent diagnostic accuracy, which could potentially avoid missed diagnosis and unnecessary side effects of treatment.
Sperm DNA Fragmentation Index in Abortion or in Vitro Fertilization Failure in Presence of Normal Semen Analysis
Authors: Akhavizadegan Hamed , Yamini Nazila , Musavi Amir Masoud , Moradi Maryam , Khatami Farnaz
Published: May 2023

Role of male factor in recurrent abortion and in vitro fertilization failure has not been fully defined yet and there is much controversy about evaluating male patients with normal semen analysis. One of the factors that might help establish the male role is DNA fragmentation index. However, strong correlation between this factor and quality of semen, has caused many clinicians to believe that it does not help in abortion and implantation failure. We aim to assess this factor in our patients. In a prospective observational study, we assessed age, duration of infertility, undesired fertility related events (assisted reproductive techniques attempts and abortions), semen parameters and DNA fragmentation index in patients with multiple abortions or in vitro fertilization failures and analysed the results by statistical software SPSS version 24. DNA fragmentation index was remarkably correlated with age, duration of infertility and semen parameters. Among all groups in our study, patients with abnormal semen analysis had statistically significant higher level of DNA fragmentation. Ten percent of patients with normal or slightly abnormal semen analysis had abnormally high SDFI (sperm DNA fragmentation index). Checking DNA fragmentation index is recommended in all couples with fertilization problems even in the presence of normal semen analysis. It might be more reasonable to assess it in aged men, long duration of infertility or candidates with remarkable semen abnormality.
Prognostic Significance of the Coagulation and Complement Systems in Critical COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Ray Amitabha , Winter Kristen A. K. , Naik Dayalu S. L. , Okorie Chuku
Published: May 2023

Infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19 disease) can cause a wide range of clinical situations – from an asymptomatic state to fatal outcomes. In cases of serious clinical manifestations, the underlying mechanisms involve a number of immune cells and stromal cells as well as their products such as pro-inflammatory interleukin-6 and tumour necrosis factor-alpha that ultimately cause the cytokine storm. The situation of overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines is somewhat similar to, though in a mild form, health conditions in obesity and related metabolic disorders like type-2 diabetes, which are also considered important risk factors for severe illness in COVID-19. Interestingly, neutrophils perhaps play a significant role in this pathogenesis. On the other hand, it is thought that COVID-19-related critical illness is associated with pathological hyperactivity of the complement system and coagulopathy. Although the precise molecular interactions between the complement and coagulation systems are not clear, we observe an intimate cross-talk between these two systems in critically ill COVID-19 patients. It is believed that both of these biological systems are connected with the cytokine storm in severe COVID-19 disease and actively participate in this vicious cycle. In order to hinder the pathological progression of COVID-19, a number of anticoagulation agents and complement inhibitors have been used with varying success. Among these drugs, low molecular weight heparin enoxaparin, factor Xa inhibitor apixaban, and complement C5 inhibitor eculizumab have been commonly used in patients with COVID-19. Our overall experience might help us in the future to tackle any such conditions.
Spin density wave and antiferromagnetic transition in EuFe2As2: a high field transport and heat capacity study
Authors: Yadav Anurag , Kumar Anuj
Published: May 2023

Here we reported structural, electrical, magnetic, and thermal transport properties of ternary pnictide bulk iron based compound EuFe2As2 (Eu-122). This compound (Eu-122) crystallized in ThCr2Si2-type tetragonal phase structure with space group I4/mmm at ambient temperature. A promising divalent state (Eu2+) of Eu-ions was observed in the studied EuFe2As2. Magnetic ordering of Eu2+ ions takes place at very low temperature at around T
N = 20 K in EuFe2As2. The ferromagnetic interactions between Fe–Fe ions were established at higher temperature which was revealed from magnetic susceptibility measurements with negative value of the paramagnetic Curie temperature. Both magnetic phase transitions (20 K and 190 K) were clearly established the intrinsic magnetic nature revealed by both electrical transport and specific heat measurement. However the phase transition at low temperature corresponds to the magnetic ordering of Eu2+ ions while the high transition temperature is due to the itinerant moment of Fe. EuFe2As2 is the only compound among various parent compounds of iron pnictide superconductor’s family, in which both spin density wave (SDW) of Fe and A-type antiferromagnetic (AFM) ordering of the localized Eu2+ magnetic moments take place simultaneously. We observed here that the localized character of Eu anti-ferromagnetism dominated via RKKY interactions, despite the largely itinerant nature of Fe magnetic interactions. The resistivity with applied magnetic field revealed that the AFM ordering temperature of Eu2+ ions suppress with applied magnetic field. Also resistivity under hydrostatic pressure measurements shows the T
SDW (Fe) transition of the Fe moments shifts towards the lower temperatures while AFM ordering of Eu2+ decreases with pressure and the same is completely disappears at 2 GPa.
Embodied remembering in coordinated performances
Authors: Choe Ann Tai , Yagi Junichi
Published: May 2023

Drawing on multimodal conversation analysis and past literature on synchronization, this study sheds light on the temporal properties of embodied remembering, which we define as co-operative enactment(s) of a mutually-established recollectable. Our main argument is that the nature of a recollectable shapes the practical organization of embodied remembering. To demonstrate this, we investigate the phenomenon in three performance-based settings: (a) taiko ensemble rehearsal, (b) Korean TV show, and (c) ESL service-learning reflection. In each setting, participants jointly produce a (quasi-)synchronized performance, but for different purposes: to advocate one version of choral chanting against the other, to demonstrate one’s knowledge of choreographic moves and understanding of an expert correction in the pursuit of humor, and finally, to foster peer solidarity through nonserious competition. Detailed analysis uncovers varying degrees of performative precision, through which participants display their in-situ understanding of the consequentiality of achieved synchrony for the task-at-hand. The temporal unfolding of embodied remembering is locally shaped by participants’ mutual orientation to a given activity context and the nature of a recollectable. Participants’ orientation to relevant performative precision is embodied in the very way they enact the recollectable.
Environmental and Radar-Derived Predictors of Tornado
Intensity within Ongoing Convective Storms
Authors: Sessa Michael , Trapp Robert
Published: May 2023

Analyses of Doppler radar data and environmental parameters for 300 tornado cases are used to propose an alternative framework for tornado intensity prediction during pretornadic stages of ongoing storms, conditional on tornadogenesis. This framework is founded on the robust relationship (R² = 0.69) between pretornadic mesocyclone width and the EF rating of the subsequent tornado. In contrast, the linear relationship between pretornadic mesocyclone intensity and EF scale is much weaker (R² = 0.29). Environmental information for each case was additionally used to explore relationships between environmental parameters and tornado intensity. Such relationships depend in part on how the tornado-intensity categories are distributed [i.e., nonsignificant (EF0–1) versus significant (EF2–5), or weak (EF0–1) versus strong (EF2–3) versus violent (EF4–5)]. Low-level shear parameters discriminate the environments of significant tornadoes from nonsignificant tornadoes, but not the environments of violent tornadoes from strong tornadoes. The converse is true for thermodynamic parameters. Operational implementation of this framework for thepurposes of impact-based warnings will require real-time, automated quantification of mesocyclone width in addition to intensity and other attributes. The information gained from the pretornadic analysis demonstrated in this study would allow an operational forecaster to be aware of—and communicate—information about potential tornado intensity in warning text to the public before a tornado develops to better protect life and property. Currently, these relationships are being utilized in machine learning models for binary prediction of non-significant versus significant tornado intensity where skill is being demonstrated.
Sight vs. Sound Judgments of Music Performance Depend on Relative Performer Quality: Cross-cultural Evidence From Classical Piano and Tsugaru Shamisen Competitions
Authors: Chiba Gakuto , Ozaki Yuto , Fujii Shinya , Savage Patrick E.
Published: May 2023

Which information dominates in evaluating performance in music? Both experts and laypeople consistently report believing that sound should be the most important domain when judging music competitions, but experimental studies of Western participants rating video-only vs. audio-only versions of 6-second excerpts of Western classical performances have shown that in at least some cases visual information can play a stronger role. However, whether this phenomenon applies generally to music competitions or is restricted to specific repertoires or contexts is disputed. In this Registered Report, we focus on testing the generalizability of sight vs. sound effects by replicating previous studies of classical piano competitions with Japanese participants, while also expanding the same paradigm using new examples from competitions of a traditional Japanese folk musical instrument: the Tsugaru shamisen. For both classical piano and Tsugaru shamisen, we ask participants to choose the winner between the 1st- and 2nd- placing performers in 5 competitions and the 1st-place and low-ranking performers in 5 competitions (i.e., 40 performers total from 10 piano and 10 shamisen competitions). We tested the following three predictions twice each (once for piano and once for shamisen): 1) an interaction was predicted between domain (video-only vs. audio-only) and variance in quality (choosing between 1st and 2nd place vs. choosing between 1st and low-placing performers); 2) visuals were predicted to trump sound when variation in quality is low (1st vs. 2nd place); and 3) sound was predicted to trump visuals when variation in quality is high (1st vs. low-placing). Our experiments (n = 155 participants) confirmed our first predicted interaction between audio/visual domain and relative performer quality for both piano and shamisen conditions, suggesting that this interaction is cross-culturally general. In contrast, the second prediction was only supported for the piano stimuli and the third prediction was only supported for the shamisen condition, suggesting culturally dependent factors in the specific balance between sight and sound in the judgment of musical performance. Our results resolve discrepancies and debates from previous sight-vs-sound studies by replicating and extending them to include non-Western participants and musical traditions. Our findings may also have practical applications to evaluation criteria for performers, judges, and organizers of competitions, concerts, and auditions.
Phospholipid scramblase Xkr8 is required for developmental axon pruning via phosphatidylserine exposure
Authors: Neniskyte Urte , Kuliesiute Ugne , Vadisiute Auguste , Jevdokimenko Kristina , Coletta Ludovico , Deivasigamani Senthilkumar , Pamedytyte Daina , Daugelaviciene Neringa , Dabkeviciene Daiva , Perlas Emerald , Bali Aditya , Basilico Bernadette , Gozzi Alessandro , Ragozzino Davide , Gross Cornelius T
Published: May 2023

The mature mammalian brain connectome emerges during development via the extension and pruning of neuronal connections. Glial cells have been identified as key players in the phagocytic elimination of neuronal synapses and projections. Recently, phosphatidylserine has been identified as neuronal “eat‐me” signal that guides elimination of unnecessary input sources, but the associated transduction systems involved in such pruning are yet to be described. Here, we identified Xk‐related protein 8 (Xkr8), a phospholipid scramblase, as a key factor for the pruning of axons in the developing mammalian brain. We found that mouse Xkr8 is highly expressed immediately after birth and required for phosphatidylserine exposure in the hippocampus. Mice lacking Xkr8 showed excess excitatory nerve terminals, increased density of cortico‐cortical and cortico‐spinal projections, aberrant electrophysiological profiles of hippocampal neurons, and global brain hyperconnectivity. These data identify phospholipid scrambling by Xkr8 as a central process in the labeling and discrimination of developing neuronal projections for pruning in the mammalian brain.
A salt stress‐activated GSO1‐SOS2‐SOS1 module protects the Arabidopsis root stem cell niche by enhancing sodium ion extrusion
Authors: Chen Changxi , He Gefeng , Li Jianfang , Perez‐Hormaeche Javier , Becker Tobias , Luo Manqing , Wallrad Lukas , Gao Junping , Li Jia , Pardo José M , Kudla Jörg , Guo Yan
Published: May 2023

Soil salinity impairs plant growth reducing crop productivity. Toxic accumulation of sodium ions is counteracted by the Salt Overly Sensitive (SOS) pathway for Na+ extrusion, comprising the Na+ transporter SOS1, the kinase SOS2, and SOS3 as one of several Calcineurin‐B‐like (CBL) Ca2+ sensors. Here, we report that the receptor‐like kinase GSO1/SGN3 activates SOS2, independently of SOS3 binding, by physical interaction and phosphorylation at Thr16. Loss of GSO1 function renders plants salt sensitive and GSO1 is both sufficient and required for activating the SOS2‐SOS1 module in yeast and in planta. Salt stress causes the accumulation of GSO1 in two specific and spatially defined areas of the root tip: in the endodermis section undergoing Casparian strip (CS) formation, where it reinforces the CIF‐GSO1‐SGN1 axis for CS barrier formation; and in the meristem, where it creates the GSO1‐SOS2‐SOS1 axis for Na+ detoxification. Thus, GSO1 simultaneously prevents Na+ both from diffusing into the vasculature, and from poisoning unprotected stem cells in the meristem. By protecting the meristem, receptor‐like kinase‐conferred activation of the SOS2‐SOS1 module allows root growth to be maintained in adverse environments.