bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of IMEP on Alcator C-Mod and JET-ILW ELMy H-mode plasmas
Authors: Luda T , Angioni C , Dunne M G , Fable E , Kallenbach A , Bonanomi N , Schneider P A , Siccinio M , Tardini G , Rodriguez-Fernandez P , Hughes J W , Howard N , Frassinetti L , Saarelma S , Upgrade Team The ASDEX , MST1 Team The EUROfusion , C-Mod Team The Alcator , contributors JET
Published: January 2023

The recently developed integrated model based on engineering parameters (IMEP) (Luda et al 2020 Nucl. Fusion
61 126048; Luda et al 2021 Nucl. Fusion
60 036023), so far validated on ASDEX Upgrade, has been tested on a database of 3 Alcator C-Mod and 55 JET-ILW ELMy (type I) H-mode stationary phases. The empirical pedestal transport model included in IMEP, consisting now of imposing a fixed value of

R
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∇

T

e

>

/

T

e
,
t
o
p

=
−
82.5

, allows an accurate prediction of the pedestal top temperature (when the pedestal top density is fixed to the experimental measurements) across these three machines with different sizes, when the pedestal is peeling–ballooning (PB) limited. Cases far from the ideal PB boundary, corresponding to high edge Spitzer resistivity, are instead strongly overpredicted by IMEP. A comparison between the predictions of Europed and IMEP for a subset of JET-ILW cases shows that IMEP can more accurately reproduce the experimental pedestal width. This allows IMEP to better capture profile effects on the pedestal stability, and therefore to correctly describe the negative effect of fueling on the pedestal pressure for PB limited cases. A strong correlation between the separatrix density and the fueling rate has been identified for a subset of JET-ILW cases, when taking into account different divertor configurations. Overall, these promising results encourage further developments of integrated models to obtain reliable predictions of pedestal and global confinement using only engineering parameters for present and future machines.
Critical points in coupled Potts models and correlated percolation
Authors: Lamsen Noel , Diouane Youness , Delfino Gesualdo
Published: January 2023

We use scale invariant scattering theory to exactly determine the renormalization group fixed points of a q-state Potts model coupled to an r-state Potts model in two dimensions. For integer values of q and r the fixed point equations are very constraining and show in particular that scale invariance in coupled Potts ferromagnets is limited to the Ashkin–Teller case (

q
=
r
=
2

). Since our results extend to continuous values of the number of states, we can access the limit r → 1 corresponding to correlated percolation, and show that the critical properties of Potts spin clusters cannot in general be obtained from those of Fortuin–Kasteleyn clusters by analytical continuation.
Topological Dirac sigma models and the classical master equation
Authors: Chatzistavrakidis Athanasios , Jonke Larisa , Strobl Thomas , Šimunić Grgur
Published: January 2023

We present the construction of the classical Batalin–Vilkovisky (BV) action for topological Dirac sigma models. The latter are two-dimensional topological field theories that simultaneously generalise the completely gauged Wess–Zumino–Novikov–Witten model and the Poisson sigma model. Their underlying structure is that of Dirac manifolds associated to maximal isotropic and integrable subbundles of an exact Courant algebroid twisted by a 3-form. In contrast to the Poisson sigma model, the AKSZ construction is not applicable for the general Dirac sigma model. We therefore follow a direct approach for determining a suitable BV extension of the classical action functional with ghosts and antifields satisfying the classical master equation. Special attention is paid to target space covariance, which requires the introduction of two connections with torsion on the Dirac structure.
The matricellular protein Drosophila Cellular Communication Network Factor is required for synaptic transmission and female fertility
Authors: Catudio Garrett Elizabeth , Bielawski Ashley M , Ruchti Evelyne , Sherer Lewis M , Waghmare Indrayani , Hess-Homeier David , McCabe Brian D , Stowers R Steven , Certel Sarah J
Published: January 2023

Within the extracellular matrix, matricellular proteins are dynamically expressed nonstructural proteins that interact with cell surface receptors, growth factors, and proteases, as well as with structural matrix proteins. The cellular communication network factors family of matricellular proteins serve regulatory roles to regulate cell function and are defined by their conserved multimodular organization. Here, we characterize the expression and neuronal requirement for the Drosophila cellular communication network factor family member. Drosophila cellular communication network factor is expressed in the nervous system throughout development including in subsets of monoamine-expressing neurons. Drosophila cellular communication network factor-expressing abdominal ganglion neurons innervate the ovaries and uterus and the loss of Drosophila cellular communication network factor results in reduced female fertility. In addition, Drosophila cellular communication network factor accumulates at the synaptic cleft and is required for neurotransmission at the larval neuromuscular junction. Analyzing the function of the single Drosophila cellular communication network factor family member will enhance our potential to understand how the microenvironment impacts neurotransmitter release in distinct cellular contexts and in response to activity.
Transitions Between Mild Cognitive Impairment, Dementia, and Mortality: The Importance of Olfaction
Authors: Knight Jamie E , Yoneda Tomiko , Lewis Nathan A , Muniz-Terrera Graciela , Bennett David A , Piccinin Andrea M
Published: January 2023

Background

The existing literature suggests that impaired olfaction may be an early marker for cognitive decline. Tracking the earliest stages of the progression to dementia is paramount, and yet the importance of olfactory ability throughout cognitive states and death remains unclear.

Methods

Drawing data from the Rush Memory and Aging Project (N = 1 501; 74% female), olfactory ability was assessed using the Brief Smell Identification Test (range = 0–16), while cognitive states (unimpaired, mild cognitive impairment [MCI], and dementia) were determined using a 3-step neuropsychological diagnostic protocol at up to 15 annual occasions. Multistate survival models simultaneously estimated the association of olfactory ability on transitions through cognitive states and death, while multinomial regression models estimated cognitively unimpaired and total life expectancies.

Results

Higher olfactory scores were associated with a reduced risk of transitioning from unimpaired cognition to MCI (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.86, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.82–0.88) and from MCI to dementia (HR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.86–0.93), indicating that 1-unit increase in olfactory scores was associated with an approximate 14% and 11% reduction in risk, respectively. Additionally, higher olfactory scores were associated with a greater likelihood of transitioning backward from MCI to unimpaired cognition (HR = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.02–1.12). Furthermore, higher baseline olfactory scores were associated with more years of longevity without cognitive impairment. However, olfaction was not associated with the transition to death when accounting for transitions through cognitive states.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that higher olfactory identification scores are associated with a decreased risk of transitioning to impaired cognitive states and that associations between olfaction and mortality may occur primarily through the pathway of neurodegeneration.
Canine Model of Human Frailty: Adaptation of a Frailty Phenotype in Older Dogs
Authors: Lemaréchal Romane , Hoummady Sara , Barthélémy Inès , Muller Claude , Hua Julie , Gilbert Caroline , Desquilbet Loïc
Published: January 2023

Frailty is a clinical presentation resulting from age-related cumulative declines in several physiological systems. The aim of this study was to adapt the concept of frailty to the domestic dog, as a model for frailty research, by characterizing a 5-criterion frailty phenotype using objective measurement, and to investigate its independent association with death. A prospective cohort including 80 Labrador and Golden Retriever dogs aged 9 years or older was conducted between March 2015 and July 2020. An adapted frailty phenotype was defined according to the presence of 5 criteria (weakness, slowness, poor endurance, low physical activity, and shrinking) evaluated at baseline from physical performance tests and items from questionnaire and physical examination. Survival analysis was used to investigate the association between frailty status and time to all-cause death over 5 years of follow-up. Frailty status was significantly associated with all-cause death, with median survival times of 10.5 months, 35.4 months, and 42.5 months, respectively for dogs with 3 or more criteria (frail dogs), dogs with 1 or 2 criteria (prefrail dogs), and nonfrail dogs. Independently of age, sex, breed, sterilization, and sex-sterilization interaction, frail dogs died significantly faster than nonfrail dogs at baseline (adjusted hazard ratio = 5.86; 95% confidence interval = 2.45–14.0; p < .01). This significant association persisted after controlling for other potential confounders. Frailty, assessed by a 5-criterion phenotype, was predictive of all-cause death, in geriatric Labrador and Golden Retriever dogs. The concept of frailty seems adaptable to the dog.
4. International history of the twentieth century
Authors: Scott Len
Published: January 2023

This chapter focuses on some of the principal developments in world politics from 1900 to 1999: the development of total war, the advent of nuclear weapons, the onset of cold war, and the end of European imperialism. It shows how the confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union became the key dynamic in world affairs, replacing the dominance of—and conflict among—European states in the first half of the twentieth century. It also examines the ways that the cold war promoted or prevented global conflict, how decolonization became entangled with East–West conflicts, and how dangerous the nuclear confrontation between East and West was. Finally, the chapter considers the role of nuclear weapons in specific phases of the cold war, notably in détente, and then with the deterioration of Soviet–American relations in the 1980s.
13. Social constructivism
Authors: Barnett Michael
Published: January 2023

This chapter examines constructivist approaches to international relations theory. It explores whether there is a possibility of moral progress in world politics, whether some cultures and countries are more (or less) inherently violent, and whether states are motivated by power or by ideas. The chapter also discusses the rise of constructivism and some key concepts of constructivism, including the agent–structure problem, holism, idealism, individualism, materialism, and rational choice. It concludes with an analysis of constructivist assumptions about global change. Two case studies are presented, one relating to social construction of refugees and the 2015 European migration crisis, and the other considers what it means to be a ‘victim’.
14. War and world politics
Authors: Barkawi Tarak
Published: January 2023

This chapter examines how war fits into the study of international relations and the ways it affects world politics. It begins with an analysis of the work of the leading philosopher of war, Carl von Clausewitz, to highlight the essential nature of war, the main types of war, and the idea of strategy. It then considers some important developments in the history of warfare, both in the West and elsewhere, with particular emphasis on interrelationships between the modern state, armed force, and war in the West and in the global South. Two case studies are presented, one asking the question about what is global about the global war on terror (GWOT) and the other examining the GWOT in the context of war and society, looking at Afghanistan, Iraq, and the United States.
19. International law
Authors: Reus-Smit Christian
Published: January 2023

This chapter examines debates surrounding the nature and efficacy of modern international law. It begins by discussing the reasons why international societies construct institutions, and why different sorts of institutions have emerged in different historical contexts. It then considers the nature and origins of the modern institution of international law, its relationship with the practice of multilateralism, and the recent cosmopolitanization of the global legal order. It also explores the laws of war and concludes with an overview of different theoretical approaches to international law such as realism, neoliberal institutionalism, and constructivism. Two case studies are presented: the first is about whether international law is an expression of Western dominance and the second is about individual criminal accountability in non-Western countries.
23. Regionalism in international affairs
Authors: Best Edward , Christiansen Thomas
Published: January 2023

This chapter examines the different regional arrangements that have emerged around the globe. It considers whether there has been a uniform process of regional cooperation and integration across all continents, the driving forces in the establishment of various forms of regional cooperation, and the extent to which cooperation at the regional level changes the nature of international politics. After clarifying the various concepts and definitions associated with regionalism, the chapter discusses relevant developments in the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe. In particular, it looks at regional arrangements in Eurasia and the post-Soviet states. It also explores the process of European integration as well as the similarities and the differences among the various regional arrangements, with particular emphasis on the unique circumstances that shaped the emergence of the European Union. Case studies look at Mercosur, which was the Common Market of the South, created for Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, and regionalism in Southeast Asia.
Cross-Border Bank Flows and Systemic Risk
Authors: Karolyi G Andrew , Sedunov John , G. Taboada Alvaro
Published: January 2023

We find that heightened cross-border bank flows are associated with lower systemic risk in a target country’s banking system. The reductions in systemic risk are stronger for flows coming from source countries with stronger regulatory oversight than the target country. Such cross-border bank flows linked to regulatory arbitrage are also associated with improvements in target banking sector profitability, asset quality, and efficiency. We assess several alternative channels of influence for cross-border bank flows but interpret the evidence on these flows as mostly consistent with a benign form of regulatory arbitrage.
Regulatory T-cells in asthma
Authors: Harb Hani , Chatila Talal A.
Published: January 2023

Purpose of review

This review addresses recent progress in our understanding of the role of regulatory T (Treg) cells in enforcing immune tolerance and tissue homeostasis in the lung at steady state and in directing the immune response in asthmatic lung inflammation.

Recent findings

Regulatory T cells regulate the innate and adaptive immune responses at steady state to enforce immune tolerance in lung tissues at steady state and their control of the allergic inflammatory responses induced by allergens. This regulatory function can break down in the context of chronic asthmatic airway inflammation such that the lung tissue Treg cells become skewed towards a pathogenic phenotype that aggravates and perpetuates disease. Subversion of lung tissue Treg cell function involves their upregulation of Notch4 expression, which in turn acts to amplify T helper type 2 and type 17 and innate lymphoid cell type 2 responses in the airways.

A dual role for Treg cells has emerged both as immune regulators but also a potential disease effectors in asthma, with implications for disease therapy.
CircRNA B cell linker regulates cisplatin sensitivity in nonsmall cell lung cancer via microRNA-25-3p/BarH‑like homeobox 2 axis
Authors: Liu Yi , Hu Yirong , Zhao Chong , Lu Qiuliang
Published: January 2023

Cisplatin (DDP) was a commonly used drug in the treatment of nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the current resistance of patients to DDP seriously affected its therapeutic effect. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to regulate drug resistance in cells. The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of circRNA B cell linker (circ_BLNK) in DDP resistance of NSCLC. The abundances of circ_BLNK, microRNA-25-3p (miR-25-3p) and BarH‑like homeobox 2 (BARX2) were examined by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot analysis. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were detected by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide assay, EdU assay and flow cytometry. Transwell assay was applied to assess cell migration and invasion. Protein levels were quantified by western blot analysis. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was enforced to confirm the links among circ_BLNK, miR-25-3p and BARX2. The mice models were enforced to evaluate tumorigenicity. Herein, circ_BLNK and BARX2 were lower-expressed, whereas miR-25-3p was higher-expressed in A549/DDP and H1299/DDP cells than their homologous parental NSCLC cells. Circ_BLNK increases improved DDP sensitivity of NSCLC cells by promoting cell apoptosis and inhibiting proliferation, migration and invasion. Moreover, we confirmed that circ_BLNK regulated BARX2 by inhibiting miR-25-3p. Accordingly, overexpression of circ_BLNK improved DDP sensitivity of NSCLC cells via miR-25-3p/BARX2 axis. Besides, circ_BLNK reduced cell resistance to DDP, thereby inhibiting tumor development in mice. Circ_BLNK promoted the DDP sensitivity of NSCLC via regulating miR-25-3p/BARX2 axis.
Gore-Tex Suture-Associated Endophthalmitis in a Scleral-Sutured Intraocular Lens
Authors: Mogil Rachel S. , Ferenchak Kevin , Starr Matthew R.
Published: January 2023

Purpose:

To describe a unique case of Gore-Tex (Gore Medical, Arizona, USA), suture-associated delayed-onset endophthalmitis in a patient with a history of scleromalacia, pathologic myopia, multiple prior vitrectomies in the setting of an scleral sutured intraocular lens.

Methods:

Retrospective case report.

Patient:

A 69-year-old man complained of blurry vision and eye pain 21 months after implantation of a scleral-sutured intraocular lens and was found to have an exposed Gore-Tex suture with scleromalacia, vision loss to hand motion, a hypopyon and vitritis. He was diagnosed with culture-positive endophthalmitis. He had a previous history of a rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair and subsequent dislocated intraocular lens in this eye treated with a scleral sutured intraocular lens. A vitreous tap and injection of broad-spectrum antibiotics and suture removal at the slit lamp were performed at the time of presentation. One week later he later underwent pars plana vitrectomy and removal of the intraocular lens.

Results:

Following the tap and inject and subsequent lens removal, his vision has returned to his pre-operative vision of 20/100 with refraction.

Discussion:

Gore-Tex suture is a non-absorbable and flexible option with great tensile strength that has emerged as a favored alternative to polypropylene for the use in transscleral fixated intraocular lenses. While endophthalmitis and suture erosion are known complications of this procedure, this report describes one of the first cases of Gore-Tex associated-endophthalmitis.
Factors Associated With Running-Related Injuries in Recreational Runners With a History of Running Injuries
Authors: Fokkema Tryntsje , Varkevisser Núria , de Vos Robert-Jan , Bierma-Zeinstra Sita M. A. , van Middelkoop Marienke
Published: January 2023

Objective:

To identify the incidence and characteristics associated with a higher injury risk in recreational runners who suffered a running-related injury (RRI) in the previous 12 months.

Design:

Prospective cohort study among recreational runners who registered for a Dutch running event (5-42.2 km) and suffered an RRI in the 12 months before inclusion.

Setting:

Open population.

Participants:

Recreational runners with a previous reported injury.

Assessment of Risk Factors:

At baseline, information on demographics, training characteristics, health complaints, and RRI history was collected.

Main Outcome Measures:

With 3 follow-up questionnaires (2 weeks before, 1 day after, and 1 month after the running event), the occurrence of new RRIs was registered.

Results:

In total, 548 participants (55.1%) sustained a new RRI during follow-up. In total, 20.5% of the new RRIs was located at the same anatomical location as the previous RRI. Runners who registered for a marathon had a higher chance to sustain a new RRI [odd ratio (OR) 1.72; 95% confidence intervals (CIs), 1.17-2.53]. Also previous RRIs in the upper leg (OR 1.59; 95% CI, 1.15-2.19) and lower leg (OR 1.61; 95% CI, 1.18-2.21) were associated with an increased injury risk.

Conclusions:

Especially being a marathon runner and the anatomical location of previous RRIs seem to be associated with the injury risk in recreational runners with a previous RRI.
Increasing awareness of adverse childhood experiences in nurse practitioner students
Authors: Moody Amy , Kindschuh Alice
Published: January 2023

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are reported in most children, and significant ACEs are associated with neurological changes and chronic conditions. Despite this, routine screening for early identification and intervention is rare. To increase screening frequency, education for providers including nurse practitioners is critical. This project provided asynchronous education on ACEs for family nurse practitioner (FNP) students with preeducation and posteducation survey links. The survey items focused on three key areas: knowledge, skills, and attitudes (KSAs). T-tests were run to determine improvements in knowledge and skills questions and for Likert scale ratings on the attitude questions. Statistical significance was found in skills questions and in knowledge questions for one implementation site, and overall increases were seen in all areas from preeducation to posteducation results. This improvement in KSAs toward ACEs for FNP students showed that increased knowledge and understanding of skills also increased the reported willingness to screen patients in primary care to improve overall health outcomes.
The clinical utility of polygenic risk scores for combined hyperlipidemia
Authors: Dron Jacqueline S.
Published: January 2023

Purpose of review

Combined hyperlipidemia is the most common lipid disorder and is strongly polygenic. Given its prevalence and associated risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, this review describes the potential for utilizing polygenic risk scores for risk prediction and management of combined hyperlipidemia.

Recent findings

Different diagnostic criteria have led to inconsistent prevalence estimates and missed diagnoses. Given that individuals with combined hyperlipidemia have risk estimates for incident coronary artery disease similar to individuals with familial hypercholesterolemia, early identification and therapeutic management of those affected is crucial. With diagnostic criteria including traits such apolipoprotein B, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglyceride, polygenic risk scores for these traits strongly associate with combined hyperlipidemia and could be used in combination for clinical risk prediction models and developing specific treatment plans for patients.

Polygenic risk scores are effective tools in risk prediction of combined hyperlipidemia, can provide insight into disease pathophysiology, and may be useful in managing and guiding treatment plans for patients. However, efforts to ensure equitable polygenic risk score performance across different genetic ancestry groups is necessary before clinical implementation in order to prevent the exacerbation of racial disparities in the clinic.
Suicidality in a psychiatric inpatient unit: a 2-year retrospective study in Umbria, central Italy
Authors: Valentini Eleonora , Bianchi Sara , Menculini Giulia , Cusenza Antonia Simona , Balena Eleonora , Balducci Pierfrancesco Maria , Amantini Kety , Moretti Patrizia , Tortorella Alfonso
Published: January 2023

Suicide ranks among the 10 leading causes of death worldwide; in Italy, almost 4000 persons per year die by suicide. Studies focusing on suicidality in Italian inpatient samples before the COVID-19 pandemic are scant. We, thus, aimed to define sociodemographic and clinical variables associated with suicidal ideation (SI) and deliberate self-harm (DSH) in a sample of inpatients admitted to a Psychiatric Inpatient Unit. This retrospective study was conducted in the Psychiatric Inpatient Unit of the Perugia Hospital, from January 2018 to December 2019. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, including diagnostic and treatment features, were collected from the medical records of subjects admitted for suicidality-related phenomena, namely DSH and SI. The prevalence of suicidality-related phenomena in the sample (n = 850) was 14.12% (n=120) and was mainly due to DSH (n = 84; 70%). Subjects hospitalized due to these conditions were more frequently females, separated, and displayed a higher prevalence of personality disorders, especially borderline personality disorder. People in the suicidality-related phenomena subgroup were more often committed involuntarily and reported multiple hospitalizations less frequently than other inpatients. They were receiving community treatment in a higher percentage of cases, and lithium was prescribed more frequently than among inpatients who were hospitalized for reasons other than suicidality. Our study provides a further characterization of psychiatric inpatients who experience SI or perform DSH. Targeted treatment strategies should be considered for subjects suffering from personality disorders who experience suicidality-related phenomena.
Exploring Bacterial Strain Diversity in the Asymptomatic Urinary Microbiome
Authors: Shanbhag Niru , Delgado Kathya , Sauer Delaney , Putonti Catherine
Published: January 2023

Taxa of the asymptomatic (“healthy”) urinary tract microbiota (urobiome) have been identified through high-throughput, short-read sequencing of the 16S rRNA and culture-based studies. These methods have identified numerous genera and species, respectively, that persist within this low biomass environment. Studies employing shotgun metagenomic sequencing of urine samples has only recently been done, and they have primarily focused on identifying non-prokaryotic constituents and/or assessing the functional capacity of the community. Species diversity within the urobiome has yet to be explored. Here we conducted a proof-of-concept study using the software tool STRONG to identify taxa and strain diversity within the asymptomatic urobiome. Two mock communities of urinary strains were produced and sequenced to provide a benchmark for such analyses. Sixty-one urobiome data sets were examined. Species were identified in 29 (47.54%) of the samples examined, including 9 samples containing more than one species, and 8 samples containing more than one strain of a given species. This suggests that the asymptomatic urobiome can include strain diversity, despite being a low biomass community. Further investigation into strain diversity within the urobiome will provide insight into dynamics of this community, in particular with respect to lower urinary tract symptoms.
Morphological and genetic analysis of Ceratomyxa saurida Zhao et al. 2015 and Ceratomyxa mai sp. nov. (Myxozoa: Ceratomyxidae) from the East China Sea
Authors: Yang Chengzhong , Huang Yanmei , Atkinson Stephen D. , Bartholomew Jerri L. , Ma Honggang , Zhao Yuanjun
Published: January 2023

We describe Ceratomyxa saurida Zhao et al. 2015 and Ceratomyxa mai sp. nov. (Myxozoa: Ceratomyxidae) from the East China Sea. C. saurida was found in the gallbladders of 3/13 specimens of its type host, Saurida elongata Temminck and Schlegel 1846 (Aulopiformes). Myxospore characters were consistent with the original description to which we have added small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene data. C. mai sp. nov. was found in gallbladders of 3/13 specimens of S. elongata and 5/13 specimens of Neobythites sivicola Jordan and Snyder 1901 (Ophidiiformes). Mature myxospores of C. mai sp. nov. were crescentic in sutural view, with a deeply concave posterior angle 142.2±8.2° (125.8‒158.2°) and an arched anterior side. Shell valves were smooth and equal, 20.9±1.9 (17.3‒24.7) µm thick and 9.2±0.5 (8.1‒9.9) µm long, and joined at a straight, thin sutural plane passing between two nematocysts (polar capsules). The nematocysts were equal-sized, pyriform, 2.6±0.2 (2.4‒2.9) µm long and 2.7±0.2 (2.4‒3.3) µm wide, with their tapered ends pointed toward each other, located in the anterior third of the spore. Sequences of the SSU rRNA gene and internal transcribed spacer 1 showed that the isolates of C. mai sp. nov. obtained from S. elongata and N. sivicola were identical. The SSU rRNA gene sequence of C. mai sp. nov. was distinct from all known myxosporeans and clustered with C. saurida, and then with Ceratomyxa filamentosi Kalatzis, Kokkari and Katharios 2013, both of which also infect Aulopiformes fishes.
Meditation attenuates Default-mode activity: a pilot study using ultra-high strength MRI
Authors: Ganesan Saampras , Moffat Bradford , Van Dam Nicholas T. , Lorenzetti Valentina , Zalesky Andrew
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Mapping the neurobiology of meditation using 3 Tesla functional MRI (fMRI) has burgeoned recently. However, limitations in signal quality and neuroanatomical resolution have impacted reliability and precision of extant findings. Although ultra-high strength 7 Tesla MRI overcomes these limitations, investigation of meditation using 7 Tesla fMRI is still in its infancy.

Methods

In this feasibility study, we scanned 10 individuals who were beginner meditators using 7 Tesla fMRI while they performed focused attention meditation and non-focused rest. We also measured and adjusted the fMRI signal for key physiological differences between meditation and rest. Finally, we explored the 2-week impact of the single fMRI meditation session on mindfulness, anxiety and focused attention attributes.

Results

Group-level task fMRI analyses revealed significant reductions in activity during meditation relative to rest in Default-mode network hubs, i.e., antero-medial prefrontal and posterior cingulate cortices, precuneus, as well as visual and thalamic regions. These findings survived stringent statistical corrections for fluctuations in physiological responses which demonstrated significant differences (p < 0.05/n, Bonferroni controlled) between meditation and rest. Compared to baseline, State Mindfulness Scale (SMS) scores were significantly elevated (F = 8.16, p<0.05/n, Bonferroni controlled) following the fMRI meditation session, and were closely maintained at 2-week follow up.

Conclusions

This pilot study establishes the feasibility and utility of investigating focused attention meditation using ultra-high strength (7 Tesla) fMRI, by supporting widespread evidence that focused attention meditation attenuates Default-mode activity responsible for self-referential processing. Future functional neuroimaging studies of meditation should control for physiological confounds and include behavioural assessments.
An outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium following an Eid al-Adha celebration barbecue in Wales (UK), July 2021
Authors: Adamson James , Sawyer Clare , Hobson Gemma , Clark Emily , Fina Laia , Orife Oghogho , Smith Robert , Williams Christopher , Hughes Harriet , Jones Allyson , Swaysland Sarah , Somoye Oluwaseun , Phillips Ryan , Iqbal Junaid , Mohammed Israa , Karani George , Thomas Daniel Rh
Published: January 2023

Background

On a Friday evening in July 2021, Public Health Wales received notification of two cases of salmonella gastroenteritis. Both cases reported attending an Eid al-Adha celebration barbecue in a public park in Cardiff, UK two days earlier. Case finding over the weekend indicated further cases in those who had attended this event and an outbreak investigation was initiated.

Methods

Cases were defined as an individual with diarrhoea and/or vomiting with date of onset on the day of the barbecue, with an epidemiological link to the Eid-al Adha celebration meal. We undertook a cohort study in 36 people attending the barbecue and an associated lunchtime event, and a nested case-control study using Firth logistic regression. A communication campaign that was sensitive towards cultural practices was developed in collaboration with the community, community liaison staff and the Public Health Wales communications team.

Results

Consumption of a traditional raw liver dish, ‘marrara’, at the barbecue was the most likely vehicle for infection (Firth logistic regression, aOR: 49.99, 95%CI 1.71-1461.54, p=0.02). Meat came from two local butchers with the same supplier and food samples yielded identical whole genome sequences to those from cases. This outbreak highlights the need for appropriate food hygiene advice in communities preparing traditional dishes.

Conclusions

This outbreak identified a new vehicle of interest, a traditional raw offal dish. Future outbreak investigations, particularly where cultural events are associated with particular foods, should consider dishes beyond those on routine questionnaires to those which may be relevant to the community in question.
SARS-CoV-2 Reinfection is Preceded by Unique Biomarkers and Related to Initial Infection Timing and Severity: an N3C RECOVER EHR-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Hadley Emily , Yoo Yun Jae , Patel Saaya , Zhou Andrea , Laraway Bryan , Wong Rachel , Preiss Alexander , Chew Rob , Davis Hannah , Chute Christopher G , Pfaff Emily R , Loomba Johanna , Haendel Melissa , Hill Elaine , Moffitt Richard ,   the N3C and RECOVER consortia
Published: January 2023

Although the COVID-19 pandemic has persisted for over 2 years, reinfections with SARS-CoV-2 are not well understood. We use the electronic health record (EHR)-based study cohort from the National COVID Cohort Collaborative (N3C) as part of the NIH Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery (RECOVER) Initiative to characterize reinfection, understand development of Long COVID after reinfection, and compare severity of reinfection with initial infection. We validate previous findings of reinfection incidence (5.9%), the occurrence of most reinfections during the Omicron epoch, and evidence of multiple reinfections. We present novel findings that Long COVID diagnoses occur closer to the index date for infection or reinfection in the Omicron BA epoch. We report lower albumin levels leading up to reinfection and a statistically significant association of severity between first infection and reinfection (chi-squared value: 9446.2, p-value: 0) with a medium effect size (Cramer’s V: 0.18, DoF = 4).
Classification of Hyper-scale Multimodal Imaging Datasets
Authors: MacFadyen Craig , Duraiswamy Ajay , Harris-Birtill David
Published: January 2023

Algorithms that can classify hyper-scale multi-modal datasets, comprising of millions of images, into constituent modality types can help researchers quickly retrieve and classify diagnostic imaging data, accelerating clinical outcomes. This research aims to demonstrate that a deep neural network that is trained on a hyper-scale dataset (4.5 million images) composed of heterogeneous multi-modal data, can be used to obtain significant modality classification accuracy (96%). By combining 102 medical imaging datasets, a dataset of 4.5 million images was created. A ResNet-50, ResNet-18 and VGG16 were trained to classify these images by the imaging modality used to capture them (Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Positron Emission Tomography (PET), and X-ray) across many body locations. The classification accuracy of the models was then tested on unseen data.

The best performing model achieved classification accuracy of 96% on unseen data. The model achieved a balanced accuracy of 86%.

This research shows it is possible to train Deep Learning (DL) Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) with hyper-scale multimodal data-sets, composed of millions of images. The trained model can be used to classify images by modality, with the best performing model achieving a classification accuracy of 96%. Such models can find use in real-world applications with volumes of image data in the hyper-scale range, such as medical imaging repositories, or national healthcare institutions. Further research can expand this classification capability to include 3D-scans.
Survey Design and Geospatial Analysis using Data on Baseline Prevalence, Environmental Risk-Factors and Treatment History Drastically Reduces the Cost of STH Impact Surveys
Authors: Fronterrè Claudio , Johnson Olatunji , Giorgi Emanuele , Montresor Antonio , Diggle Peter J
Published: January 2023

Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are among the most common neglected tropical diseases worldwide, causing high morbidity and mortality rates in endemic areas. STH impact assessment surveys provide information on the changing epidemiological situation so that control programme managers can adapt the frequency of any continuing preventive chemotherapy (PC). The cost associated with conducting these surveys is an important factor, especially in developing countries with severely limited financial resources. Using three case studies based on historical data on baseline prevalence, environmental risk-factors and treatment history from Kenya, Sierra Leone and Zimbabwe, we show that a model-based geostatistics approach drastically reduces the cost of STH impact surveys by comparison with a survey conducted according to the current WHO guidelines, whilst maintaining the same overall accuracy. The framework that we develop is disease-agnostic and could easily be repurposed for use with other NTDs.
The relationship between diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease phenotypes: a UK Biobank cohort study
Authors: Brown Oliver I , Drozd Michael , McGowan Hugo , Giannoudi Marilena , Conning-Rowland Marcella , Gierula John , Straw Sam , Wheatcroft Stephen B , Paradine Katherine , Roberts Lee D , Levelt Eylem , Ajjan Ramzi , Griffin Kathryn J , Bailey Marc A , Kearney Mark T , Cubbon Richard M
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Obesity and diabetes mellitus (DM) frequently co-exist, yet their individual contributions to cardiovascular risk remain debated. We explored cardiovascular disease biomarkers, events and mortality in a large cohort stratified by body mass index (BMI) and DM.

Methods

451,355 UK Biobank participants were stratified by ethnicity-specific BMI categories (normal, overweight, obese) and DM status. We examined cardiovascular biomarkers including: carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT); arterial stiffness; left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and cardiac contractility index (CCI). Poisson regression models estimated adjusted incidence rate ratios (IRR) for myocardial infarction, ischaemic stroke and cardiovascular death, with normal weight non-DM as comparator.

Results

5% of participants had DM (10% normal weight, 34% overweight and 55% obese; versus 34%, 43% and 23%, respectively, in non-DM). In the non-DM group, overweight/obesity was associated with higher CIMT, arterial stiffness and CCI, and lower LVEF (p<0.05); these relationships were diminished in the DM group. Within BMI classes, DM was associated with adverse cardiovascular phenotype (p<0.05), particularly in the normal weight group. After 5,323,190 person-years follow-up, incident myocardial infarction, ischaemic stroke and cardiovascular mortality all rose across increasing BMI categories in the DM and non-DM groups (p<0.05). However, normal weight DM had higher cardiovascular mortality than obese non-DM (IRR 2.81 [95% confidence interval: 2.24-3.54] vs IRR 1.84 [1.70-1.98]).

Conclusions

Obesity and DM are additively associated with adverse cardiovascular biomarkers and mortality risk. Whilst adiposity metrics are more strongly correlated with cardiovascular biomarkers than diabetes-oriented metrics, both correlate weakly, suggesting other factors underpin the high cardiovascular risk of normal-weight diabetes.
OpenChart-SE: A corpus of artificial Swedish electronic health records for imagined emergency care patients written by physicians in a crowd-sourcing project
Authors: Berg J , Aasa CO , Appelgren Thorell B , Aits S
Published: January 2023

Electronic health records (EHRs) are a rich source of information for medical research and public health monitoring. Information systems based on EHR data could also assist in patient care and hospital management. However, much of the data in EHRs is in the form of unstructured text, which is difficult to process for analysis. Natural language processing (NLP), a form of artificial intelligence, has the potential to enable automatic extraction of information from EHRs and several NLP tools adapted to the style of clinical writing have been developed for English and other major languages. In contrast, the development of NLP tools for less widely spoken languages such as Swedish has lagged behind. A major bottleneck in the development of NLP tools is the restricted access to EHRs due to legitimate patient privacy concerns. To overcome this issue we have generated a citizen science platform for collecting artificial Swedish EHRs with the help of Swedish physicians and medical students. These artificial EHRs describe imagined but plausible emergency care patients in a style that closely resembles EHRs used in emergency departments in Sweden. In the pilot phase, we collected a first batch of 50 artificial EHRs, which has passed review by an experienced Swedish emergency care physician. We make this dataset publicly available as OpenChart-SE corpus (version 1) under an open-source license for the NLP research community. The project is now open for general participation and Swedish physicians and medical students are invited to submit EHRs on the project website (https://github.com/Aitslab/openchart-se). Additional batches of quality-controlled EHRs will be released periodically.
Diminished responses to mRNA-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis on immune modifying therapies
Authors: Klebanoff Samuel D. , Rodda Lauren B. , Morishima Chihiro , Wener Mark H. , Yuzefpolskiy Yevgeniy , Bettelli Estelle , Buckner Jane H. , Speake Cate , Pepper Marion , Campbell Daniel J.
Published: January 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorder that causes debilitating swelling and destruction of the joints. People with RA are treated with drugs that actively suppress one or more parts of their immune system, and these may alter their response to vaccination against SARS-CoV-2. In this study, we analyzed blood samples from a cohort of RA subjects after receiving a 2-dose mRNA COVID-19 vaccine regimen. Our data show that individuals on the CTLA4-Ig therapy abatacept have reduced levels of SARS-CoV-2-neutralizing antibodies after vaccination. At a cellular level, these subjects show reduced activation and class-switching of SARS-CoV-2-specific B cells, as well as reduced numbers and impaired helper cytokine production by SARS-CoV-2-specific CD4+T cells. Individuals on methotrexate showed similar but less severe defects in vaccine response, whereas individuals on the B cell-depleting therapy rituximab had a near-total loss of antibody production after vaccination. These data define a specific cellular phenotype associated with impaired response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in RA subjects on different immune-modifying therapies, and help inform efforts to improve vaccination strategies in this vulnerable population.
The study of fibrotic scar at the long term spinal cord lesion rats
Authors: Naghynajadfard Maryam , Li Ying
Published: January 2023

The fibrotic lesion formation is the main deterrent at regeneration of neurons in CNS injuries. In this paper we studied fibrotic scar formation in rat corticospinal tract lesion after one year survival time. The glial scar formation and Extracellular Matrix (ECM) fibronection derived scaffolds were investigated and the fore paw reaching task was performed during this period to see whether there is any regeneration of neurons along the lesion or not.
Expression profiling of the learning striatum
Authors: Lousada E , Kliesmete Z , Janjic A , Burguière E , Enard W , Schreiweis C
Published: January 2023

During cortico-basal ganglia dependent learning, relevant environmental information is associated with certain outcomes; such learning is essential to generate adaptive behaviour in a continuously changing environment. Through repetitive trial-and-error experiences, actions are optimized and cognitive associative load can be relieved through consolidation and automatization. Although the molecular basis of learning is well studied, region-specific genome-wide expression profiles of the striatum, the major input region of cortico-basal ganglia circuits, during learning are lacking. Here we combined an automated operant conditioning paradigm with an efficient RNA-sequencing protocol to compare expression profiles among three learning stages in three striatal regions per hemisphere in a total of 240 striatal biopsies. Notably, the inclusion of matched yoked controls allowed reliably identifying learning-related expression changes. With 593 differently expressed genes (3.3% of all detected genes), we find the strongest effect of learning at an early, goal-directed stage across all three striatal region and identify a total of 921 learning-related expression changes. Our dataset provides a unique resource to study molecular markers of striatal learning.
The use of newborn foot length to identify low birth weight and preterm babies in Papua New Guinea: A diagnostic accuracy study
Authors: Mengi Alice , Vallely Lisa M , Laman Moses , Jally Eunice , Kulimbao Janeth , Warel Sharon , Enman Regina , Aipit Jimmy , Low Nicola , Riddell Michaela
Published: January 2023

Low birth weight (LBW, <2.50 kg) and preterm birth (PTB, <37 completed weeks of gestation) are important contributors to neonatal death. Newborn foot length has been assessed to identify LBW and PTB babies in Asia and Africa. The objectives of this observational study were to determine the diagnostic accuracy of foot length to identify LBW and PTB and to compare foot length measurements of a researcher with those of trained volunteers in Papua New Guinea. Newborn babies were enrolled prospectively with written informed consent from their mothers, who were participating in a clinical trial in Madang Province. The reference standards were birth weight, measured by electronic scales and gestational age at birth, based on ultrasound scan and last menstrual period at the first antenatal visit. Newborn foot length was measured within 72 hours of birth with a firm plastic ruler. Optimal foot length cut-off values for LBW and PTB were derived from receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Bland-Altman analysis was used to assess inter-observer agreement between researcher and volunteer. From 12 October 2019 to 6 January 2021, we enrolled 342 newborns (80% of those eligible); 21.1% (72/342) were LBW and 7.3% (25/342) were PTB. The area under the curve for LBW was 87.0% (95% confidence intervals 82.8-90.2) and for PTB 85.6% (81.5-89.2). The optimal foot length cut-off was <7.7 cm for both LBW (sensitivity 84.7%, 74.7-91.2, specificity 69.6%, 63.9-74.8) and PTB (sensitivity 88.0% (70.0-95.8), specificity 61.8% (56.4-67.0). In 123 babies with paired measurements, the mean difference between the researcher and volunteer measurements was 0.07 cm (95% limits of agreement −0.55 to +0.70) and 7.3% (9/123) of the pairs were outside the 95% limits of agreement. When birth at a health facility is not possible, foot length measurement can identify LBW and PTB in newborns but needs appropriate training for community volunteers and evaluation of its impact on healthcare outcomes.