bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of shipborne cold chain monitoring system based on multi link compression transmission
Authors: Liu Pei‐xue , Chen Yu‐jie , Yan Dong
Published: June 2024

Aiming at the problems of traditional ship cold chain monitoring systems being easily affected by environmental factors, difficult to achieve real‐time monitoring in the open sea without network signals, and low efficiency in transmitting Beidou short message data, a multi‐link compressed transmission ship cold chain monitoring system was designed by combining 5G technology, Beidou short message transmission technology, and multi‐protocol transmission technology. The system can adaptively switch the strength of wireless signals to ensure that information transmission is not lost. At the same time, a Beidou short message compressed transmission method was proposed to improve transmission efficiency. Test results show that the system can accurately complete data collection and processing, with small system errors, effectively improving the reliability and efficiency of the monitoring system, and has high application value.
Genomic Differences between Spontaneous versus Indicated Extreme Preterm Birth
Authors: Ambalavanan Namasivayam , Cotten C. Michael , Erickson Stephen W. , Mathur Ravi , Torgerson Dara , Ballard Philip L. ,   for the Eunice Kennedy Shriver NICHD Neonatal Research Network and the TOLSURF Study Group
Published: June 2024

Objective Extremely preterm infants are at high risk of neonatal mortality and morbidity. Extreme preterm birth (PTB) may result from spontaneous preterm labor or preterm premature rupture of membranes or may be indicated due to preeclampsia, eclampsia, hypertension, or other causes. Our objective was to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and biological pathways associated with spontaneous versus indicated extreme PTB using the neonatal genome.

Study Design We evaluated 523 spontaneous births and 134 indicated births weighing 401 to 1,000 g at birth from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Neonatal Research Network's Genomics dataset by genome-wide association study (GWAS) and pathway analysis. The TOLSURF cohort was used to replicate the results.

Results In the NRN GWAS, no statistically significant results were found, although the Manhattan plot showed one almost significant peak (rs60854043 on chromosome 14 at p = 1.03E-07) along with many other modest peaks at p = 1–9E-06, for a total of 15 suggestive associations at this locus. In the NRN pathway analysis, multiple pathways were identified, with the most significant being “GO_mf:go_low_density_lipoprotein_particle_receptor_activity” at p = 1.14E-06. However, these results could not be replicated in the TOLSURF cohort.

Conclusion Genomic differences are seen between infants born by spontaneous versus indicated extreme PTB. Due to the limited sample size, there is a need for larger studies.

Key Points
The Effect of Shift Timing on Cesarean Delivery Outcomes and Operative Noise Levels
Authors: Smith Gabrielle K. , Ulin Mara A. , Ganjineh Brandon M. , Urban Amanda R. , Fuller Robert R. , Whitham Megan D.
Published: June 2024

Objective Intraoperative noise exposure has been associated with an increased risk of complications, communication errors, and stress among surgical team members. This study evaluates intraoperative noise levels in cesarean deliveries during different shift times, for example, night shifts, day shifts, and hand-off times between shifts.

Study Design This is a secondary analysis of a prospective observational study which measured volume in decibels, percentage of time above safe levels (>60 dB), startle noise events (events with rapid increase of decibel level above baseline noise), and peak levels (>75 dB) for cesarean deliveries during a 3-month preintervention and postintervention study. This secondary analysis of noise data evaluated whether there were differences in noise for cases occurring during day shifts (6:31 a.m.–4:59 p.m.), night shifts (6:01 p.m.–5:29 a.m.), and hand-off times (5:30 a.m.–6:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.). Correlates and postoperative complications during the respective shifts were additionally analyzed.

Results Noise data were collected for a total of 312 cesarean deliveries; 203 occurred during the day shift, 94 during the night shift, and 15 during hand-off times. Median noise in decibels, median noise at various key intraoperative points, number of startle events, percentage of time above 60 dB, and above 75 dB had no significant differences throughout the various shift times. Significantly larger numbers of postpartum hemorrhages, unscheduled, urgent, and STAT cesarean deliveries occurred at hand-off times and on night shifts.

Conclusion Noise levels during cesarean deliveries did not significantly vary when comparing night shifts, day shifts, and hand-off times, despite significantly higher numbers of urgent and STAT cases occurring overnight and during hand-off times. However, more than 60% of case time had noise levels exceeding those considered safe. This suggests that ambient background noise may be contributing more to overall noise levels rather than the specific clinical scenario at hand.

Key Points
Using AI in the creation of municipality slogans
Authors: Hakala Ulla
Published: June 2024

In this exploratory study, Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer (ChatGPT), a chatbot developed by OpenAI, is utilized in the creation of slogans for Finnish municipalities in their place-branding efforts. The purpose is to investigate whether ChatGPT could provide the basis for a constructive slogan invention process for a city. Ideally, by adopting ChatGPT into their branding efforts, municipalities could save time and money. The issue is empirically explored in two phases: the first utilizes ChatGPT in the creation of slogans for the 20 largest municipalities in Finland. The second introduces an expert human perspective on the matter by interviewing representatives of three major Finnish cities to garner their thoughts on the use of AI in place branding and on AI-generated slogans.Place branding is more complex than mere promotional elements (Govers in Place Brand Public Diplomacy 9:71–75, 2013), yet, slogans are being widely used by municipalities as traditionally also by companies.
Un-siloing securitization: an intersectional intervention
Authors: Innes Alexandria
Published: June 2024

This research reflects on how securitization works as a structure of power, or as a vehicle through which extant power structures (nationalism, race, gender, class, (dis)ability) are operationalised. I attend to the relationships between three thematic areas of securitization: immigration, health, and violence against women. I examine where securitization theory secures the state while calcifying the boundaries of who belongs to the state, ignoring or actively banishing marginalised and contested identities that do not form part of the audience that co-constitutes security and are obscured within the society for which security is made. The power structures guiding securitization narratives produce a racist, gendered, and classed interpretation of society in which violence against ‘outsiders’ or those who are only partially inside is endemic. This research remodels securitization theory as a tool through which researchers can expose the continuum of lived realities of violence and insecurity that are exacerbated by securitizing processes.
Gender matters: board gender diversity and firms’ export resilience
Authors: Wei Yunyan
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the impact of board gender diversity on the export resilience of Chinese A-share listed firms from 2009 to 2015. Our findings indicate that board gender diversity significantly enhances firms’ export resilience. The results remain robust across various modifications, including adjustments to the sample period, exclusion of extreme values, utilization of alternative measures for critical variables, addressing endogeneity concerns by adding fixed effects and employing the sex ratio at birth as an instrumental variable. Mechanism tests reveal that enhancing the quality of export products, expanding export diversity, and improving corporate reputation are crucial pathways through which board gender diversity can bolster firms’ export resilience. Finally, heterogeneity analysis shows that the positive effect is more pronounced in older firms and those with higher board educational backgrounds. This effect is also more prominent in firms located in provinces with higher levels of non-state economic and product market development.
Navigating the digital divide: unraveling the impact of ICT usage and supply on SO2 emissions in China’s Yangtze River Delta
Authors: Kashif Umair , Shi Junguo , Li Sihan , Wu Qinqin , Song Qiuya , Dou Shanshan , Wei Mengjie , Naseem Snovia
Published: June 2024

The relationship between information and communication technology (ICT) and environmental pollution is widely recognized and complex. To better understand the environmental impact of ICT, we divide it into two facets: the supply side and the usage side. This study investigates the impact of ICT usage and ICT supply on sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions using random effect and spatial Durbin model in China Yangtze River Delta from 2011 to 2019. The findings reveal an inverted U-shape relationship between ICT usage and SO2 emission, while the supply of ICT has a significant negative impact on SO2 emissions. Furthermore, the spillover effect of ICT usage shows insignificant outcomes, but the supply of ICT has a significant and negative impact on SO2 emissions. Collectively, these findings provide fresh insights and empirical evidence into the effects of ICT usage and ICT supply on SO2 emissions, bearing significant policy implications for promoting ICT to attain sustainable development goals.
Study of structural and mechanical properties of the C2CaNa half-Heusler alloy using density functional theory approach
Authors: Ishaje Michael E. , Minakova Kseniia , Sirenko Valentyna , Bondar Ivan
Published: June 2024

The mechanical properties of the half-Heusler alloy C2CaNa using density functional theory approach as installed in Quantum Espresso software was examined. We observed that C2CaNa will be easily compressed due to the small value of its bulk modulus. The values of the lattice constant a0, elastic constants (C11, C12, C14), Young’s modulus E, Piosson’s ratio ν, Shear modulus G, Zener anitropy A, pressure derivative B′, and band-gap Eg were obtained. Also the Voigt approximation, Reuss approximation and the Voigt–Reuss–Hill average of the approximation were gotten. Calculated values of G/B ratio is 0.581; this shows that C2CaNa has low resistance opposed to shear deformation. The B/G ratio evaluated for C2CaNa is 1.72. This implies that C2CaNa is “brittle” in nature at ambient condition. Our calculated elastic constants (C11, C12, and C44) for C2CaNa satisfied the following mechanical stability conditions for cubic structure: C11 – C12 > 0, C44 > 0, and C11 + 2C12 > 0. The value of C12 is an indication that C2CaNa is mechanically stable. This examination gives important experiences into the primary dependability and mechanical way of behavior of this material, this will empower advance material plan and application.
Outer shell symmetry for double shell capsules with aluminum ablators
Authors: Sacks Ryan , Keiter Paul , Merritt Elizabeth , Loomis Eric , Montgomery David , Sauppe Joshua , Haines Brian , Stark David , Sagert Irina , Robey Harry , Palaniyappan Sasikumar , Morrow Tana , Finnegan Sean , Kline John , Batha Steve
Published: June 2024

Double shell targets are a promising potential avenue to obtain robust neutron yield at current laser facilities. Similar to single shell designs, double shells require the symmetric implosion of an ablator in order to uniformly compress and heat a fuel volume, with the goal of achieving thermonuclear burn. Significant differences between double and single shells include the usage of an aluminum ablator as well as a reverse ramp laser pulse. In addition, double shells require a different convergence than single shells for fuel ignition. Numerical implosion studies at various energies with comparisons to experimental outcomes are required to gain confidence that simulations can capture the ablator shape from subscale to full scale. The current work builds on previous implosion experiments conducted at 1-MJ laser energy to confirm achieved ablator symmetry at 1.25 and 1.5 MJ. Average ablator P2 and P4 shapes measured in these experiments are within 5% of the simulated shape, which merits the platforms for further experimental studies.
Highly efficient lead zirconate titanate ring modulator
Authors: Liu Guolei , Yu Hongyan , Ban Dasai , Li Bin , Wei Guoqiang , Yang Chen , Wang Jungan , Sohn Young-Ik , Han Yu , Qiu Feng
Published: June 2024

Advanced photonic integrated circuits require large-scale integration of high-speed electro-optic (EO) functional components on a chip. Low power consumption and high operation speed are thus key metrics for almost all integrated EO devices. Here, we demonstrated a ring resonator modulator based on lead zirconate titanate (PZT) on a SiO2/Si substrate. The ridge waveguides were employed to keep a large spatial overlap between the optical field and the electric field within the PZT layer. The device exhibits a data rate of 56 Gbit/s and significant tuning efficiency, reaching up to 35.8 pm/V, corresponding to 1.17 V·cm. The demonstration of energy efficient and high-speed EO modulation paves the way for realizing dense PZT photonics integrated circuits.
Thermodynamic analysis and optimization of a condensation-driven dilution refrigerator
Authors: Cheng Weijun , Zu Hongye , Li Zhiheng , Wang Yanan , Dai Wei
Published: June 2024

Dilution refrigerators are widely used in the fields of condensed matter physics and quantum technology. The condensation-driven dilution refrigerator uses a condenser operating at temperatures below the Still to liquefy the 3He vapor and achieve the circulation of 3He, which has the advantages of compact structure, lightweight, low cost, and low vibration. The published research primarily focuses on the system architecture and performance, and the research and analysis on the thermodynamic cycle are still incomplete. In this paper, the condensation-driven dilution refrigeration cycle has been clarified as a thermally driven refrigeration cycle, and the thermodynamic performances including the figure of merit and thermodynamic perfectibility are investigated. Optimizations have been made to the key components of the previous prototype, and the lowest no-load temperature of 68 mK and a cooling power of 4 μW at 100 mK were achieved. Compared with the previous prototype, the thermodynamic perfectibility of the system increased from 7.63% to 17.83%. The impact of the Still heating strategies on the system was analyzed, and a start-up strategy was proposed to speed up the cooldown process.
Realization of an ultra-thin absorber based on magnetic metamaterial working at L-band
Authors: E Liujia , Liu Zhongqing , Liu Shujie , Xu Zhaoxuan , Mei Zhonglei , Niu Tiaoming
Published: June 2024

In this paper, at the L-band, we design and verify an ultra-thin easy-realized absorber (LUTA) based on metasurface and magnetic material. The absorptivity achieves over 90% at 1–2.51 GHz (86.04% fractional bandwidth), covering the whole L-band (1–2 GHz) and the partial S-band (2–4 GHz). The total thickness of the LUTA is as low as 3.7 mm, corresponding to 0.012λ0 at the lowest operating frequency, which greatly breaks through the Rozanov limit. The excellent performance is achieved through analyzing the transmission line model of a basic absorber and then designing the metasurface layer with required impedance characteristics to make the impedance of the LUTA match with the air at the designed frequency band. The simulated absorption, power loss density, and the surface current distributions of the LUTA verify the design method, while the measured results demonstrate that the LUTA has the superiority of easy-fabrication, polarization independent, wide angle incidence, and high absorption at the whole L-band. The LUTA has great application potentials in the fields of L-band electromagnetic stealth and radar cross section reduction.
Camera-based ultrasound-modulated optical tomography with isometric resolution
Authors: Lin Guangzhong , Wu Daixuan , Zhao Jiayu , Xu Yiyun , Shen Yuecheng , Shao Lijie
Published: June 2024

Ultrasound-modulated optical tomography (UOT) leverages the strengths of light and sound, enabling deep-tissue imaging with optical absorption contrast and acoustic resolution. Camera-based UOT, with its parallel detection capability, excels at handling weak light–sound interactions. However, the limited frame rate of the camera typically results in poor axial resolution and poses challenges for holographic measurements. In this study, we introduced intersected ultrasonic modulation to address these limitations, thereby achieving equal resolution in both lateral and axial dimensions through referenceless measurements. As a proof of concept, we constructed an imaging system and demonstrated two-dimensional imaging for absorptive targets buried inside a scattering medium. This approach opens avenues for improved imaging resolutions, showcasing the potential for future diagnostic endeavors.
Numerical investigation of unsteady shedding behaviors of a reentrant jet supercavity
Authors: Xu Haiyu , Wang Cong , Wei Yingjie , Cao Wei , Wang Wei
Published: June 2024

To investigate the unsteady shedding characteristics of a reentrant jet supercavity with a low Froude number, a high-fidelity numerical model based on the inhomogeneous multiphase model is developed to predict the complex supercavitation flow that occurs during supercavity development. The developed solver is validated quantitatively against experimental results in terms of supercavity geometry and closure mode. This study focuses on the initial generation and development process of a reentrant jet supercavity, revealing three distinct stages: foam cavity, transparent supercavity with rapid growth in dimensions, and fully developed supercavity exhibiting significant deformation. Owing to reverse flow of the gas–water mixture, interfacial instabilities arise from the unsteady cavity shedding, leading to fluctuations in supercavity shape. The types of large-scale cavity shedding observed in this work—wing-like and cloud-like—are caused by the concave deformation resulting from the reentrant jet. As the gas entrainment coefficient increases, the unsteady characteristics of pressure oscillation weaken, and the instance of wing-like cavities decreases. When the gas entrainment coefficient reaches a critical value, the twin-vortex closure mode occurs, resulting in a more stable flow behavior. In sum, we propose a theoretical model that elucidates the strength of the reentrant jet and reveals its unsteady shedding behavior during supercavity development.
Achieving ultrahigh surface flashover voltage of epoxy resin in vacuum by ultraviolet irradiation
Authors: Feng Yang , Zhou Bin , Li Mingru , Gao YaFang , Li Shengtao
Published: June 2024

Surface flashover that occurs on the surface of epoxy resin (EP) is one of the main causes of insulation failure in the power system. The newly emerging polar groups on the surface are highly desirable for enhancing the surface flashover performance of EP. Here, we present a facile ultraviolet (UV) irradiation method to enable the controlled introduction of C–OH and C = O groups on the EP surface. The resultant UV-irradiated EPs (UV-EPs) are highly uniform with little variation in surface roughness while exhibiting tunable polar content with the irradiation time. We also present the first systematic investigation into the effect of UV irradiation time on the surface flashover voltage of UV-EPs, with a maximum increase of 23.07% compared to the pristine EP. Mechanistic studies suggest that the enhancement of the surface flashover voltage is mainly dominated by the density of the deep trap, which is strongly dependent on the UV-induced C–OH and C = O groups on the surface. Besides that, the UV-EPs also display long-term stability due to the stable presence of polar groups, which further demonstrates the feasibility of this method for the development of EP with excellent properties.
Quadruple bonds in MoC: Accurate calculations and precise measurement of the dissociation energy of low-lying states of MoC
Authors: Androutsopoulos Alexandros , Tzeli Demeter , Tomchak Kimberly H. , Morse Michael D.
Published: June 2024

In the present work, the electronic structure and chemical bonding of the MoC X3Σ− ground state and the six lowest excited states, A3Δ, a1Γ, b5Σ−, c1Δ, d1Σ+, and e5Π, have been investigated in detail using multireference configuration interaction methods and basis sets, including relativistic effective core potentials. In addition, scalar relativistic effects have been considered in the second order Douglas–Kroll–Hess approximation, while spin–orbit coupling has also been calculated. Five of the investigated states, X3Σ−, A3Δ, a1Γ, c1Δ, and d1Σ+, present quadruple σ2σ2π2π2 bonds. Experimentally, the predissociation threshold of MoC was measured using resonant two-photon ionization spectroscopy, allowing for a precise measurement of the dissociation energy of the ground state. Theoretically, the complete basis set limit of the calculated dissociation energy with respect to the atomic ground state products, including corrections for scalar relativistic effects, De(D0), is computed as 5.13(5.06) eV, in excellent agreement with our measured value of D0(MoC) of 5.136(5) eV. Furthermore, the calculated dissociation energies of the states having quadruple bonds with respect to their adiabatic atomic products range from 6.22 to 7.23 eV. The excited electronic states A3Δ2 and c1Δ2 are calculated to lie at 3899 and 8057 cm−1, also in excellent agreement with the experimental values of DaBell et al., 4002.5 and 7834 cm−1, respectively.
Study on the free surface evolution and slamming pressure of curved-wedge water entry using a Riemann-smoothed particle hydrodynamics method
Authors: Meng Zi-Fei , Gao Tian-Yu , Sun Peng-Nan
Published: June 2024

The present study aims to provide a deep understanding of curved wedge water entry. It involves a numerical simulation investigation into the kinematic and dynamic properties of water entry for two curved wedges with deadrise angles of 25° and 35°. The meshless Riemann-smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) model embedded with an acoustic damper is developed to simulate these violent water entries. The validation of the Riemann-SPH accuracy is confirmed through comparison with experimental data, and subsequently, we make a systematical simulation study on curved wedge water entry, including a comparative study of free surface evolution and pressure distribution at different curvatures and drop heights. Furthermore, the kinematics analysis of velocity and displacement of curved wedges and time domain characteristics of slamming pressure loads on both sides of the wedge are investigated. It is revealed that the pressure distribution is symmetrical, with high-pressure regions forming near the bottom of the wedge and gradually propagating outward. The free surface profiles are symmetrical, with deeper depressions formed by sharper wedges. The entry depth and velocity are correlated with the initial theoretical entry velocity, and the rate of speed decline varies with the curvature of the wedge. The slamming pressure loads exhibit distinct time-domain patterns, with lower pressure loads by sharper wedges.
Achieving high electromechanical response in lead-free BNT-BT ceramics through synergistic A/B-site doping
Authors: Khan Salman Ali , Habib Muhammad , Lee Soonil , Huang Siya
Published: June 2024

Lead-free Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3-based ceramics show great promise for achieving high unipolar strain. However, it remains challenging to implement an effective strategy for microstructural designs with high electromechanical response. Herein, a direct composition-engineering method based on A/B-sites doping is adopted to introduce a synergistic effect of reduced oxygen vacancies, lattice distortion, ferroelectric-to-relaxor phase transition, and nano-sized domains, resulting in a high piezoelectric strain coefficient d*33 of 857 pm/V at a small electric field of 4 kV/mm. Furthermore, a large room-temperature maximum polarization (Pm) of 72.4 μC/cm2 was observed at high electric field. A phase transition from coexisting rhombohedral–tetragonal to pseudocubic was engineered by finely tuning the contents of NaTaO3, leading to a decrease in both remnant polarization (Pr) and coercive field (Ec). The phase diagram of 1-x[0.935(Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3)-0.065(BaTi0.99Nb0.01O3)]-x(NaTaO3) (x = 0–0.04) is proposed, providing a roadmap for engineering high-performance piezoelectric ceramics with enhanced electrostrain responses, which may find potential applications as piezoelectric actuators.
Acoustic black hole with functionally graded perforated rings
Authors: Petrover Kayla , Baz A.
Published: June 2024

A new class of acoustic black hole (ABH) waveguides is presented, which relies in its operation on an array of optimally designed functionally graded perforated rings (FGPRs). In this manner, the developed ABH is provided with built-in energy dissipation characteristics generated by virtue of the flow through perforations, which enhances its acoustic absorption behavior and makes the speed of the propagating waves vanish faster when reaching the end of the waveguide. Furthermore, the particular design of the rings enables sandwiching of additional porous absorbing layers between the rings to further boost the absorption characteristics of the proposed ABH. Accordingly, the operating principle of the new class of ABH is radically different from that of the conventional ABH that employs sequential solid-flat rings of decreasing inner radii to create a virtual power law taper necessary for generating the black hole effect, but through reactive means rather than the effective dissipative means of the proposed ABH. Therefore, this paper develops a transfer matrix modeling (TMM) approach to model the absorption and reflection characteristics of the new class of ABH, in an attempt to predict its behavior, optimize the selection of its design parameters, and more importantly, demonstrate its merits as effective means for controlling sound propagation. Numerical examples are presented to highlight the merits and behavior of the proposed ABH. Predictions of the TMM are validated against experimental results that are available in the literature for one and two micro-perforated plates. Comparisons are also established between the ABH with FGPR and the conventional ABH in order to distinguish the behavior and underlying principles of their operations.
Width-mode order dependent spin wave conversion in an in-plane magnetized microscale T-shaped YIG magnonic splitter
Authors: Taniguchi Takuya , Sahliger Jan , Vilsmeier Franz , Back Christian H.
Published: June 2024

As one of the fundamental magnonic devices, magnonic splitter devices have been proposed and spin wave propagation in the devices has been studied numerically and experimentally. In the present work, we fabricated a T-shaped magnonic splitter with three 6 μm-wide arms from a 100 nm-thick yttrium iron garnet film. Using time-resolved magneto-optic Kerr microscopy, we observed spin waves splitting into both, the vertical and the horizontal direction at the junction. Analyzing the results, we found that the spin wave width modes are converted into each other during the splitting process and, consequently, concluded that the width mode conversion efficiency depends on the ratio of wavelength to the vertical branch's width and the anisotropic distribution of the spin wave amplitude at the T-junction.
Human CD127 negative ILC2s show immunological memory
Authors: Mathä Laura , Krabbendam Lisette , Martinez Høyer Sergio , Heesters Balthasar A. , Golebski Korneliusz , Kradolfer Chantal , Ghaedi Maryam , Ma Junjie , Stadhouders Ralph , Bachert Claus , Cardell Lars-Olaf , Zhang Nan , Holtappels Gabriele , Reitsma Sietze , Helgers Leanne Carijn , Geijtenbeek Teunis B.H. , Coquet Jonathan M. , Takei Fumio , Spits Hergen , Martinez-Gonzalez Itziar
Published: June 2024

ILC2s are key players in type 2 immunity and contribute to maintaining homeostasis. ILC2s are also implicated in the development of type 2 inflammation–mediated chronic disorders like asthma. While memory ILC2s have been identified in mouse, it is unknown whether human ILC2s can acquire immunological memory. Here, we demonstrate the persistence of CD45RO, a marker previously linked to inflammatory ILC2s, in resting ILC2s that have undergone prior activation. A high proportion of these cells concurrently reduce the expression of the canonical ILC marker CD127 in a tissue-specific manner. Upon isolation and in vitro stimulation of CD127−CD45RO+ ILC2s, we observed an augmented ability to proliferate and produce cytokines. CD127−CD45RO+ ILC2s are found in both healthy and inflamed tissues and display a gene signature of cell activation. Similarly, mouse memory ILC2s show reduced expression of CD127. Our findings suggest that human ILC2s can acquire innate immune memory and warrant a revision of the current strategies to identify human ILC2s.
Varietie of Lute-Lessons and A Musicall Banquet
Authors: Grapes K Dawn
Published: June 2024

John Dowland’s son Robert produced two musical books through the London press in 1610: the lute treatise and anthology Varietie of Lute-Lessons and the songbook A Musicall Banquet. These international collections were surely inspired, and perhaps directly aided in production, by his father. As the only print in which the older Dowland addresses technique related to the instrument he mastered, Varietie of Lute-Lessons takes on special significance. This chapter examines the contents of the two Robert Dowland anthologies, with close attention given to the John Dowland works that are included. It also considers the dedicatees of each volume, Thomas Monson and Robert Sidney, and posits the two books as the continuation of Dowland’s efforts to secure a post in the Jacobean court.
Freedom of Speech and the Return of the Invisible Gorilla
Authors: Hasnas John
Published: June 2024

The realm of speech protected by the First Amendment is perennially contentious. This contention arises from the mistaken view that speech must either be unregulated or regulated by the state. This overlooks the regulation of speech that comes from common law civil liability. In a liberal society, the desideratum is not free speech, but free and responsible speech. The common law links freedom to responsibility. This chapter demonstrates how, in the absence of the political regulation of speech, common law regulation—defamation, negligence, misrepresentation, tortious interference, etc.—provides all that is necessary to maintain the proper balance between free and responsible speech.
The Obviousness of Anarchy
Authors: Hasnas John
Published: June 2024

This chapter contains a synthesis of the preceding chapters designed to present an argument for anarchy. Unlike many such arguments, it does not rely on abstract theorizing about the functioning of an idealized market. It proceeds by examining the fundamental services supplied by government one by one to demonstrate how they can be provided nonpolitically. It begins by showing how the common law can provide all the rules of law necessary for a peaceful and prosperous society. It then demonstrates how adjudicative and police services can be provided in a manner similar to the way they evolved historically under the common law. The argument presented is an entirely practical one in the sense that it shows what is possible by showing that it already exists.
LoRA-TV: read depth profile-based clustering of tumor cells in single-cell sequencing
Authors: Duan Junbo , Zhao Xinrui , Wu Xiaoming
Published: June 2024

Single-cell sequencing has revolutionized our ability to dissect the heterogeneity within tumor populations. In this study, we present LoRA-TV (Low Rank Approximation with Total Variation), a novel method for clustering tumor cells based on the read depth profiles derived from single-cell sequencing data. Traditional analysis pipelines process read depth profiles of each cell individually. By aggregating shared genomic signatures distributed among individual cells using low-rank optimization and robust smoothing, the proposed method enhances clustering performance. Results from analyses of both simulated and real data demonstrate its effectiveness compared with state-of-the-art alternatives, as supported by improvements in the adjusted Rand index and computational efficiency.
Flexible parsing, interpretation, and editing of technical sequences with splitcode
Authors: Sullivan Delaney K , Pachter Lior
Published: June 2024

Motivation

Next-generation sequencing libraries are constructed with numerous synthetic constructs such as sequencing adapters, barcodes, and unique molecular identifiers. Such sequences can be essential for interpreting results of sequencing assays, and when they contain information pertinent to an experiment, they must be processed and analyzed.

Results

We present a tool called splitcode, that enables flexible and efficient parsing, interpreting, and editing of sequencing reads. This versatile tool facilitates simple, reproducible preprocessing of reads from libraries constructed for a large array of single-cell and bulk sequencing assays.

Availability and implementation

The splitcode program is available at http://github.com/pachterlab/splitcode.
On some algorithms for estimation in Gaussian graphical models
Authors: Højsgaard S , Lauritzen S
Published: June 2024

In Gaussian graphical models, the likelihood equations must typically be solved iteratively. This paper investigates two algorithms: a version of iterative proportional scaling, which avoids inversion of large matrices, and an algorithm based on convex duality and operating on the covariance matrix by neighbourhood coordinate descent, which corresponds to the graphical lasso with zero penalty. For large, sparse graphs, the iterative proportional scaling algorithm appears feasible and has simple convergence properties. The algorithm based on neighbourhood coordinate descent is extremely fast and less dependent on sparsity, but needs a positive-definite starting value to converge. We provide an algorithm for finding such a starting value for graphs with low colouring number. As a consequence, we also obtain a simplified proof of existence of the maximum likelihood estimator in such cases.
Understanding decision-making for and against oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery as an alternative to a mastectomy in early breast cancer: UK ANTHEM qualitative study
Authors: Davies Charlotte , Conefrey Carmel , Mills Nicola , Fairbrother Patricia , Holcombe Chris , Whisker Lisa , Skillman Joanna , White Paul , MacMillan Douglas , Comins Charles , Hollingworth William , Potter Shelley
Published: June 2024

Background

Oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery may allow women with early breast cancer to avoid a mastectomy, but many women undergo more extensive surgery, even when breast-conserving options are offered. The aim of the ANTHEM qualitative study was to explore factors influencing women’s surgical decision-making for and against oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of women who had received either oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery or a mastectomy with or without immediate breast reconstruction to explore their rationale for procedure choice. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Trial registration number: ISRCTN18238549.

Results

A total of 27 women from 12 centres were interviewed. Out of these, 12 had chosen oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery and 15 had chosen a mastectomy with or without immediate breast reconstruction. Overwhelmingly, women's decisions were guided by their surgical teams. Decision-making for and against oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery was influenced by three key inter-related factors: perceptions of oncological safety; the importance of maintaining/restoring femininity and body image; and practical issues. Oncological safety was paramount. Women who reported feeling reassured that oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery was oncologically safe were happy to choose this option. Those who were not reassured were more likely to opt for a mastectomy, as a perceived ‘safer’ option. Most women wished to maintain/restore femininity, with the offer of immediate breast reconstruction essential to make a mastectomy an acceptable option. Practical issues such as the perceived magnitude of the surgery were a lesser concern.

Conclusion

Decision-making is complex and heavily influenced by the surgical team. High-quality, accurate information about surgical options, including appropriate reassurance about the short- and long-term oncological safety of oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery is vital if women are to make fully informed decisions.
The relevance of Spearman's g for epilepsy
Authors: Struck Aaron F , Garcia-Ramos Camille , Nair Veena A , Prabhakaran Vivek , Dabbs Kevin , Conant Lisa L , Binder Jeffrey R , Loring David , Meyerand Mary , Hermann Bruce P
Published: June 2024

Whilst the concept of a general mental factor known as ‘g’ has been of longstanding interest, for unknown reasons, it has never been interrogated in epilepsy despite the 100+ year empirical history of the neuropsychology of epilepsy. This investigation seeks to identify g within a comprehensive neuropsychological data set and compare participants with temporal lobe epilepsy to controls, characterize the discriminatory power of g compared with domain-specific cognitive metrics, explore the association of g with clinical epilepsy and sociodemographic variables and identify the structural and network properties associated with g in epilepsy. Participants included 110 temporal lobe epilepsy patients and 79 healthy controls between the ages of 19 and 60. Participants underwent neuropsychological assessment, clinical interview and structural and functional imaging. Cognitive data were subjected to factor analysis to identify g and compare the group of patients with control participants. The relative power of g compared with domain-specific tests was interrogated, clinical and sociodemographic variables were examined for their relationship with g, and structural and functional images were assessed using traditional regional volumetrics, cortical surface features and network analytics. Findings indicate (i) significantly (P < 0.005) lower g in patients compared with controls; (ii) g is at least as powerful as individual cognitive domain-specific metrics and other analytic approaches to discriminating patients from control participants; (iii) lower g was associated with earlier age of onset and medication use, greater number of antiseizure medications and longer epilepsy duration (Ps < 0.04); and lower parental and personal education and greater neighbourhood deprivation (Ps < 0.012); and (iv) amongst patients, lower g was linked to decreased total intracranial volume (P = 0.019), age and intracranial volume adjusted total tissue volume (P = 0.019) and age and intracranial volume adjusted total corpus callosum volume (P = 0.012)—particularly posterior, mid-posterior and anterior (Ps < 0.022) regions. Cortical vertex analyses showed lower g to be associated specifically with decreased gyrification in bilateral medial orbitofrontal regions. Network analysis of resting-state data with focus on the participation coefficient showed g to be associated with the superior parietal network. Spearman's g is reduced in patients, has considerable discriminatory power compared with domain-specific metrics and is linked to a multiplex of factors related to brain (size, connectivity and frontoparietal networks), environment (familial and personal education and neighbourhood disadvantage) and disease (epilepsy onset, treatment and duration). Greater attention to contemporary models of human cognition is warranted in order to advance the neuropsychology of epilepsy.
X-linked dominant erythropoietic protoporphyria with early-onset manifestations caused by a hemizygous ALAS2 variant
Authors: Srinivas Sahana M , Moss Celia
Published: June 2024

Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is usually caused by autosomal dominant mutations FECH, blocking the conversion of protoporphyrin to haem. The resulting accumulation of protoporphyrin causes itching, burning and erythema after sun exposure, with facial scarring and, sometimes, liver damage. We report a 4-year-old boy from India with XLDPP with a previously unreported manifestation of photo-onycholysis and an unusually severe phenotype, possibly attributable to extensive sun exposure.
Remote symptom monitoring with patient-reported outcome measures in outpatients with chronic kidney disease (PROKID): a multicentre randomised controlled non-inferiority study
Authors: Grove Birgith Engelst , Schougaard Liv Marit Valen , Mose Frank , Randers Else , Hjollund Niels Henrik , Ivarsen Per , De Thurah Annette
Published: June 2024

Background

The increasing incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is straining the capacity of outpatient clinics. Remote healthcare delivery might improve CKD follow-up compared with conventional face-to-face follow-up. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are used to empower remote follow-up and patient engagement. The consequences of shifting from face-to-face follow-up to remote outpatient follow-up on kidney function, health resource utilisation and quality of life remain unknown.

Methods

We conducted a multicentre pragmatic non-inferiority trial at three outpatient clinics in the Central Denmark Region. A total of 152 incident outpatients with CKD were randomised (1:1:1) to either PRO-based, PRO-telephone follow-up or standard of care (SoC). The primary outcome was the annual change in kidney function measured by the slope of the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). The non-inferiority margin was an eGFR of 2.85 ml/min/1.73 m2/year. Mean differences were estimated using intention-to-treat (ITT), per protocol and random coefficient models.

Results

Mean eGFR slope differences between PRO-based and SoC were −0.97 ml/min/1.73 m2/year [95% confidence interval (CI) −3.00–1.07] and −1.06 ml/min/1.73 m2/year (95% CI −3.02–0.89) between PRO-telephone and SoC. Non-inferiority was only established in the per-protocol analysis due to CIs exceeding the margin in the ITT group. Both intervention groups had fewer outpatient visits: −4.95 (95% CI −5.82 to −4.08) for the PRO-based group and −5.21 (95% CI −5.95 to −4.46) for the PRO-telephone group. We found no significant differences in quality of life, illness perception or satisfaction.

Conclusion

Differences in the eGFR slope between groups were non-significant and results on non-inferiority were inconclusive. Thus, transitioning to remote PRO-based follow-up requires close monitoring of kidney function. Reducing patients’ attendance in the outpatient clinic was possible without decreasing either quality of life or illness perception.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03847766
Impact of Prior Biologic or Janus Kinase Inhibitor Therapy on Efficacy and Safety of Etrasimod in the ELEVATE UC 52 and ELEVATE UC 12 Trials
Authors: Vermeire Séverine , Sands Bruce E , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , D’Haens Geert R , Panés Julian , Yarur Andres J , Wolf Douglas C , Ritter Timothy , Schreiber Stefan , Woolcott John C , Modesto Irene , Keating Michael , Shan Kevin , Wu Joseph , Chiorean Michael V , Baert Filip , Dubinsky Marla C , Goetsch Martina , Danese Silvio , Feagan Brian G
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

Etrasimod is an oral, once daily, selective, sphingosine 1-phosphate [S1P]1,4,5 receptor modulator for the treatment of moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis [UC]. This subgroup analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of etrasimod 2 mg once daily vs placebo by prior biologic/Janus kinase inhibitor [bio/JAKi] exposure in ELEVATE UC 52 and ELEVATE UC 12.

Methods

Pre-defined efficacy endpoints were assessed at Weeks 12 and 52 in ELEVATE UC 52 and Week 12 in ELEVATE UC 12 in bio/JAKi-naïve and -experienced patients, and at Week 12 [pooled] based on prior advanced therapy exposure mechanism.

Results

In the ELEVATE UC 52 and ELEVATE UC 12 analysis populations, 80/274 [29.2%] and 74/222 [33.3%] patients receiving etrasimod and 42/135 [31.1%] and 38/112 [33.9%] patients receiving placebo, respectively, were bio/JAKi-experienced. In both bio/JAKi-naïve and -experienced patients, a significantly greater proportion receiving etrasimod vs placebo achieved clinical remission [p < 0.05] in ELEVATE UC 52 at Weeks 12 [naïve: 30.9% vs 9.7%; experienced: 17.5% vs 2.4%] and 52 [naïve: 36.6% vs 7.5%; experienced: 21.3% vs 4.8%]; in ELEVATE UC 12, this was observed only for bio/JAKi-naïve patients [naïve: 27.7% vs 16.2%, p = 0.033; experienced: 18.9% vs 13.2%, p = 0.349]. Similar patterns were observed for most efficacy endpoints. Among patients with prior anti-integrin exposure [N = 90], a significantly greater proportion achieved clinical response [54.1% vs 27.6%, p = 0.030], but not clinical remission [9.8% vs 3.4%, p = 0.248], with etrasimod vs placebo.

Conclusions

Bio/JAKi-naïve and -experienced patients had clinically meaningful induction and maintenance treatment benefits with etrasimod vs placebo.

ClinicalTrials.gov

NCT03945188; NCT03996369
Perioperative Enhanced Recovery Concepts Significantly Improve Postoperative Outcome in Patients with Crohn`s Disease
Authors: Kelm Matthias , Wagner Lena , Widder Anna , Pistorius Regina , Wagner Johanna C , Schlegel Nicolas , Markus Christian , Meybohm Patrick , Germer Christoph-Thomas , Schwenk Wolfgang , Flemming Sven
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

Despite recent advancements in medical and surgical techniques in patients suffering from Crohn`s disease [CD], postoperative morbidity remains relevant due to a long-standing, non-curable disease burden. As demonstrated for oncological patients, perioperative enhanced recovery concepts provide great potential to improve postoperative outcome. However, robust evidence about the effect of perioperative enhanced recovery concepts in the specific cohort of CD patients is lacking.

Methods

In a prospective, single-centre study, all patients receiving ileocaecal resection due to CD between 2020 and 2023 were included. A specific, perioperative, enhanced recovery concept [ERC] was implemented and patients were divided into two groups [before and after implementation]. The primary outcome focused on postoperative complications as measured by the Comprehensive Complication Index [CCI], secondary endpoints were severe complications, length of hospital stay, and rates of re-admission.

Results

Of 83 patients analysed, 33 patients participated in the enhanced recovery programme [post-ERC]. Whereas patient characteristics were comparable between both groups, ERC resulted in significantly decreased rates of overall and severe postoperative complications [CCI: 21.4 versus 8.4, p = 0.0036; Clavien Dindo > 2: 38% versus 3.1%, p = 0.0002]. Additionally, post-ERC-patients were ready earlier for discharge [5 days versus 6.5 days, p = 0.001] and rates of re-admission were significantly lower [3.1% versus 20%, p = 0.03]. In a multivariate analysis, the recovery concept was identified as independent factor to reduce severe postoperative complications [p = 0.019].

Conclusion

A specific, perioperative, enhanced recovery concept significantly improves the postoperative outcome of patients suffering from Crohn`s disease.