bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GESLM algorithm for detecting causal SNPs in GWAS with multiple phenotypes
Authors: Lyu Ruiqi , Sun Jianle , Xu Dong , Jiang Qianxue , Wei Chaochun , Zhang Yue
Published: July 2021

With the development of genome-wide association studies, how to gain information from a large scale of data has become an issue of common concern, since traditional methods are not fully developed to solve problems such as identifying loci-to-loci interactions (also known as epistasis). Previous epistatic studies mainly focused on local information with a single outcome (phenotype), while in this paper, we developed a two-stage global search algorithm, Greedy Equivalence Search with Local Modification (GESLM), to implement a global search of directed acyclic graph in order to identify genome-wide epistatic interactions with multiple outcome variables (phenotypes) in a case–control design. GESLM integrates the advantages of score-based methods and constraint-based methods to learn the phenotype-related Bayesian network and is powerful and robust to find the interaction structures that display both genetic associations with phenotypes and gene interactions. We compared GESLM with some common phenotype-related loci detecting methods in simulation studies. The results showed that our method improved the accuracy and efficiency compared with others, especially in an unbalanced case–control study. Besides, its application on the UK Biobank dataset suggested that our algorithm has great performance when handling genome-wide association data with more than one phenotype.
Dopamine-dependent early synaptic and motor dysfunctions induced by α-synuclein in the nigrostriatal circuit
Authors: Tozzi Alessandro , Sciaccaluga Miriam , Loffredo Vittorio , Megaro Alfredo , Ledonne Ada , Cardinale Antonella , Federici Mauro , Bellingacci Laura , Paciotti Silvia , Ferrari Elena , La Rocca Antonino , Martini Alessandro , Mercuri Nicola B , Gardoni Fabrizio , Picconi Barbara , Ghiglieri Veronica , De Leonibus Elvira , Calabresi Paolo
Published: July 2021

Misfolding and aggregation of α-synuclein are specific features of Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases defined as synucleinopathies. Parkinson’s disease progression has been correlated with the formation and extracellular release of α-synuclein aggregates, as well as with their spread from neuron to neuron. Therapeutic interventions in the initial stages of Parkinson’s disease require a clear understanding of the mechanisms by which α-synuclein disrupts the physiological synaptic and plastic activity of the basal ganglia. For this reason, we identified two early time points to clarify how the intrastriatal injection of α-synuclein-preformed fibrils in rodents via retrograde transmission induces time-dependent electrophysiological and behavioural alterations. We found that intrastriatal α-synuclein-preformed fibrils perturb the firing rate of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, while the discharge of putative GABAergic cells of the substantia nigra pars reticulata is unchanged. The α-synuclein-induced dysregulation of nigrostriatal function also impairs, in a time-dependent manner, the two main forms of striatal synaptic plasticity, long-term potentiation and long-term depression. We also observed an increased glutamatergic transmission measured as an augmented frequency of spontaneous excitatory synaptic currents. These changes in neuronal function in the substantia nigra pars compacta and striatum were observed before overt neuronal death occurred. In an additional set of experiments, we were able to rescue α-synuclein-induced alterations of motor function, striatal synaptic plasticity and increased spontaneous excitatory synaptic currents by subchronic treatment with l-DOPA, a precursor of dopamine widely used in the therapy of Parkinson’s disease, clearly demonstrating that a dysfunctional dopamine system plays a critical role in the early phases of the disease.
Clinical characteristics of headache after vaccination against COVID-19 (coronavirus SARS-CoV-2) with the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine: a multicentre observational cohort study
Authors: Göbel Carl H , Heinze Axel , Karstedt Sarah , Morscheck Mascha , Tashiro Lilian , Cirkel Anna , Hamid Qutayba , Halwani Rabih , Temsah Mohamad-Hani , Ziemann Malte , Görg Siegfried , Münte Thomas , Göbel Hartmut
Published: July 2021

The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 causes the infectious disease COVID-19. Newly developed mRNA vaccines can prevent the spread of the virus. Headache is the most common neurological symptom in over 50% of those vaccinated. Detailed information about the clinical characteristics of this form of headache has not yet been described. The aim of the study is to examine in detail the clinical characteristics of headaches occurring after vaccination against COVID-19 with the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine for the first time. In a multicentre observational cohort study, data on the clinical features and corresponding variables were recorded using a standardized online questionnaire. The questionnaire was circulated to 12 000 residential care homes of the elderly as well as tertiary university hospitals in Germany and the United Arab Emirates. The primary outcomes of this study are the clinical features of headache after vaccination. Comorbidities, treatment with medication and sociodemographic variables are also analysed. A total of 2349 participants reported headaches after vaccination with the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. Headaches occur an average of 18.0 ± 27.0 h after vaccination and last an average duration of 14.2 ± 21.3 h. Only 9.7% of those affected also report headaches resulting from previous vaccinations. In 66.6% of the participants, headache occurs as a single episode. A bilateral location is indicated by 73.1% of the participants. This is most often found on the forehead (38.0%) and temples (32.1%). A pressing pain character is indicated by 49.2% and 40.7% report a dull pain character. The pain intensity is most often moderate (46.2%), severe (32.1%) or very severe (8.2%). The most common accompanying symptoms are fatigue (38.8%), exhaustion (25.7%) and muscle pain (23.4%). Headaches after COVID-19 vaccination show an extensive complex of symptoms. The constellation of accompanying symptoms together with the temporal and spatial headache characteristics delimit a distinctive headache phenotype.
Self-Determination and the Right of Peoples to Participate in International Law-Making
Authors: Jones Natalie
Published: July 2021

In recent decades, peoples have frequently asserted a right to participate in the international legal order, and have participated in various international law-making and regulatory processes carried out under the auspices of intergovernmental organizations. However, while self-determination has long been understood to encompass a right to participation at the national level, the case for this legal right at the international level has not been comprehensively discussed. I present an account of the development of the law of self-determination and argue that by its logic, the law of self-determination can be interpreted as justifying a collective right of peoples to participate in international law-making. The article proposes a formulation of the right including its corresponding duties. The article’s key contribution is to offer an understanding of how practice by states and international organizations to grant indigenous peoples enhanced status in intergovernmental fora may be seen to logically follow from the law of self-determination.
Chronic Disease and Immunosuppression Increase the Risk for Nonvaccine Serotype Pneumococcal Disease: A Nationwide Population-based Study
Authors: Naucler Pontus , Galanis Ilias , Petropoulos Alexandros , Granath Fredrik , Morfeldt Eva , Örtqvist Åke , Henriques-Normark Birgitta
Published: July 2021

Background

Demography is changing, with people living longer with comorbidities. In this nationwide population-based study, we investigated the serotype-specific invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) risk in individuals with comorbidities, and effects of the pneumococcal conjugated vaccine (PCV) child immunization program.

Methods

Cases included 14 096 IPD episodes in Sweden during 2006–2015. Controls (n = 137 289), matched to cases by age, sex, region, and calendar time, were selected from the general population. Comorbidity data was obtained through health registers and grouped as immunocompromising (IC) or chronic medical conditions (CMC).

Results

The prevalence of CMC and IC among elderly cases was 33.9% and 39.4%. New risks identified for IPD were sarcoidosis, inflammatory polyarthropathies, systemic connective tissue, and neurological diseases. The odds ratio (OR) for IPD caused by non-PCV13 compared with PCV13 serotypes was higher in individuals with CMC/IC. Serotypes associated with the highest risk were 16F, 15C, 35F, 19F, and 23A (OR 3–5 for CMC, >10 for IC). Most comorbidities increased post-vaccination, and absolute increases of IPD caused by non-PCV13, PPV23–non-PCV13, and non-PCV13/non-PPV23 serotypes were higher in individuals with IC/CMC compared with healthy persons. Non-PCV13 serotypes 6C, 9N, 11A, 22F, 23A and 35F increased more in those with comorbidities. Mortality due to non-PCV13 serotypes increased in individuals with IC/CMC, while remaining stable in persons without comorbidities.

Conclusions

The PCV child immunization program associates with an increased disease burden of non-vaccine serotypes in individuals with comorbidities. These data are important for vaccine design and optimization of current vaccination strategies.
Hayek’s twin ideas: reconciling methodological individualism and group selection
Authors: Schaefer Alexander
Published: July 2021

Hayek repeatedly refers to ‘the twin ideas of evolution and spontaneous order’. Yet, critics argue that Hayek’s theory of cultural group selection is inconsistent with his theory of spontaneous order. To assess these criticisms, this paper situates Hayek’s social theory in the contemporary discussion surrounding multilevel selection. Hayek’s theory posits two main levels—rules and order—that exhibit upward and downward causation. An examination of Hayek’s theory of cultural group selection and his account of methodological individualism reveals that neither one can provide a fully adequate explanation of social phenomena. Neither individualistic nor group-selectionist analyses allow the theorist to fully account for social order, but taken together they provide a more complete explanation. Far from being substitutes, therefore, both types of analysis are complementary aspects of Hayek’s social theory. Understanding Hayek’s theory in this way allows us to glimpse how he might weigh in on contemporary debates surrounding multilevel selection in human societies.
Ultra-proactive Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Infliximab Based on Point of Care Testing in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Results of a Pragmatic Trial
Authors: Bossuyt Peter , Pouillon Lieven , Claeys Sophie , D’Haens Soetkin , Hoefkens Eveline , Strubbe Beatrijs , Marichal Denis , Peeters Harald
Published: July 2021

Background

With point of care testing [POCT] for infliximab [IFX], ultraproactive therapeutic drug monitoring [TDM] with ad-hoc dose optimisation is possible in patients with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD].

Aim

To compare the clinical outcomes of an ultraproactive TDM algorithm of IFX based on POCT with reactive TDM in patients with IBD, in a pragmatic clinical trial.

Methods

All patients with IBD and maintenance IFX treatment were included between June and August 2018 in two centres. Centre A applied an ultra-proactive TDM algorithm incorporating POCT, and centre B applied reactive TDM. Primary endpoint was failure of IFX therapy after 1 year. Secondary endpoints included sustained clinical remission and mucosal remission.

Results

In total 187 patients [n = 115/72 cohort A/B] were included. Cohort A had more trough level [TL] measurements compared with cohort B [8.8 vs 1/patient/year; p <0.0001], leading to a significant higher number of dose optimisations. POCT testing was required in 27% after the first round of ultra-proactive TDM and in a mean of 6.3% (standard deviation [SD] 1.9) in the subsequent rounds. Ad-hoc extra dosing was needed in 13% of the POCT. After 1 year, no difference was seen between cohort A and cohort B in IFX failure [19% vs 10%; p = 0.08], nor in sustained clinical remission [75% vs 83%; p = 0.17]. Mucosal remission was evaluated in 71 patients [38%], and was more frequent in the reactive TDM cohort [p = 0.02].

Conclusions

Ultra-proactive TDM in patients with IBD and maintenance IFX treatment leads to equal clinical outcomes as reactive TDM after 1 year of follow-up.
Off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting is safe and effective in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction
Authors: Marin-Cuartas Mateo , Deo Salil V , Ramirez Paulina , Verevkin Alexander , Leontyev Sergey , Borger Michael A , Davierwala Piroze M
Published: July 2021

OBJECTIVES

Severe left ventricular dysfunction (LVD) is associated with increased risk following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Due to a dearth of reports on the choice of CABG technique in patients with LVD, this study aims to compare the outcomes of off-pump CABG (OPCAB) and conventional CABG (ONCAB) in such patients.

METHODS

Retrospective single-centre propensity-matched analysis comparing early- and long-term outcomes of OPCAB and ONCAB in patients with severe LVD. Primary outcome was long-term all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

Between 2002 and 2014, a total of 1161 consecutive patients with severe LVD underwent isolated CABG [442 patients underwent OPCAB and 719 ONCAB (430 matched pairs)]. Incomplete revascularization was observed more frequently among OPCAB than ONCAB patients (35.3% vs 21.6%; P < 0.01). The overall 30-day mortality was 5% and was comparable between the matched groups [OR 0.64 (0.34–1.22); P = 0.18]. OPCAB patients had shorter median hospital stay (11 vs 12 days; P = 0.02) and lower packed red blood cell transfusion rates [2.7 (2.21–3.19) vs 4.4 (3.56–5.24); P < 0.01]. Estimated adjusted survival was 86.0% vs 85.8%, 69.1% vs 65.5% and 59.9% vs 49.1% at 1, 5 and 10 years for OPCAB and ONCAB patients, respectively (P = 0.99). Long-term risk of mortality was similar between groups [hazard ratio (HR) 0.94 (0.66–1.32); P = 0.7]. Incomplete revascularization was weakly associated with increased risk of long-term all-cause mortality [HR 1.33 (0.99–1.77); P = 0.05].

CONCLUSIONS

OPCAB is safe and effective in patients with severe LVD. Although incomplete revascularization is more commonly observed in patients undergoing OPCAB, it is not associated with increased late mortality.
Functional diversity of microbial communities in inactive seafloor sulfide deposits
Authors: Dong Xiyang , Zhang Chuwen , Li Wenli , Weng Shengze , Song Weizhi , Li Jiangtao , Wang Yong
Published: July 2021

The seafloor sulfide structures of inactive vents are known to host abundant and diverse microorganisms potentially supported by mineralogy of sulfides. However, little is known about the diversity and distribution of microbial functions. Here, we used genome-resolved metagenomics to predict microbial metabolic functions and the contribution of horizontal gene transfer to the functionality of microorganisms inhabiting several hydrothermally inactive seafloor deposits among globally distributed deep-sea vent fields. Despite of geographically distant vent fields, similar microbial community patterns were observed with the dominance of Gammaproteobacteria, Bacteroidota and previously overlooked Candidatus Patescibacteria. Metabolically flexible Gammaproteobacteria are major potential primary producers utilizing mainly sulfur, iron and hydrogen as electron donors coupled with oxygen and nitrate respiration for chemolithoautotrophic growth. In addition to heterotrophic microorganisms like free-living Bacteroidota, Ca. Patescibacteria potentially perform fermentative recycling of organic carbon. Finally, we provided evidence that many functional genes that are central to energy metabolism have been laterally transferred among members within the community and largely within the same class. Taken together, these findings shed light on microbial ecology and evolution in inactive seafloor sulfide deposits after the cessation of hydrothermal activities.
Distinct requirements for Pho, Sfmbt, and Ino80 for cell survival in Drosophila
Authors: Elizarev Pavel , Finkl Katja , Müller Jürg
Published: July 2021

The Drosophila proteins Pleiohomeotic (Pho) and its paralog Pho-like (Phol) are the homologs of the mammalian transcription factor YY1. Pho and Phol are subunits of the Polycomb group protein complex PhoRC and they are also stably associated with the INO80 nucleosome remodeling complex. Drosophila lacking both Pho and Phol arrest development as larvae with small misshaped imaginal discs. The basis of this phenotype is poorly understood. We find that in pho phol mutant animals cells retain the capacity to proliferate but show a high incidence of apoptotic cell death that results in tissue hypoplasia. Clonal analyses establish that cells stringently require Pho and Phol to survive. In contrast, the PhoRC subunit Sfmbt and the ATP-dependent nucleosome remodeling factor Ino80 are not essential for cell viability. Pho and Phol, therefore, execute their critical role for cell survival through mechanisms that do not involve Sfmbt function or INO80 nucleosome remodeling.
Appendiceal Orifice Inflammation in Severe Ulcerative Colitis and Its Resolution With Infliximab and Plant-based Diet as First-line Therapy
Authors: Chiba Mitsuro , Ishii Hajime , Sageshima Masato , Iwabuchi Akira
Published: July 2021

Lay Summary

Appendiceal orifice inflammation, which is often observed in mild or moderate distal ulcerative colitis, was observed in a case of severe UC. Appendiceal orifice inflammation resolved after new induction therapy for severe UC: infliximab and a plant-based diet as first-line therapy.
Developing perennial fruit crop models in APSIM Next Generation using grapevine as an example
Authors: Zhu Junqi , Parker Amber , Gou Fang , Agnew Rob , Yang Linlin , Greven Marc , Raw Victoria , Neal Sue , Martin Damian , Trought Michael C T , Huth Neil , Brown Hamish Edward
Published: July 2021

A new model for grapevines (Vitis vinifera) is the first perennial fruit crop model using the Agricultural Production System sIMulator (APSIM) Next Generation framework. Modules for phenology, light interception, carbohydrate allocation, yield formation and berry composition were adapted or added into APSIM Next Generation to represent the nature of fruit-bearing vines. The simulated grapevine phenological cycle starts with the dormancy phase triggered by a critical photoperiod in autumn, and then goes through the subsequent phenophases sequentially and finally returns to dormancy for a new cycle. The canopy microclimate module within APSIM Next Generation was extended to allow for row crop light interception. The carbohydrate arbitrator was enhanced to consider both sink strength and sink priority to reflect carbohydrate reserve as a concurrent competing sink. Weather conditions and source–sink ratio at critical developmental stages were used to determine potential grapevine yield components, e.g. bunch number, berry number and berry fresh weight. The model was calibrated and tested extensively using four detailed data sets. The model captured the variations in the timing of measured budburst, flowering and véraison over 15 seasons across New Zealand for five different varieties. The calculated seasonal dynamics of light interception by the row and alley were consistent with field observations. The model also reproduced the dynamics of dry matter and carbohydrate reserve of different organs, and the wide variation in yield components caused by seasonal weather conditions and pruning regimes. The modelling framework developed in this work can also be used for other perennial fruit crops.
The adaptability of regulatory T cells and Foxp3
Authors: Hori Shohei , Murakami Ryuichi
Published: July 2021

Regulatory T (Treg) cells that express the lineage-defining transcription factor Foxp3 play a pivotal role in establishing and maintaining immune and tissue homeostasis. Foxp3 serves as a highly connected ‘hub’, interacting with numerous genomic sites and partner proteins, in the molecular network that orchestrates multiple facets of Treg cell differentiation and function. Treg cells are distributed throughout the body from lymphoid tissues to most non-lymphoid tissues, where they exert anti-inflammatory and protective functions appropriate for the tissue and immune environment. They are thus capable of adapting to diverse and changing environments by dynamically integrating extrinsic cues with the intrinsic molecular network. In this review, we discuss recent advances in our understanding of the cell-intrinsic and -extrinsic mechanisms underlying the adaptability of Treg cells and we propose a crucial role for the Foxp3-centered molecular network, which operates in a multimodal and adaptive manner in response to environmental signals.
“Videogames Saved My Life”: Everyday Resistance and Ludic Recovery among US Military Veterans
Authors: Hirst Aggie
Published: July 2021

While the explosion of videogames as a global entertainment medium has been explored in International Relations (IR) and associated fields in some detail in recent years, the proliferation of games in military settings remains under-researched. This paper examines the uses to which US military veterans put videogames following service, showing that they play an important role in healing and rehabilitation processes through community building, therapeutic relief, and suicide prevention. Drawing in detail on interviews conducted with veterans and support workers between 2017 and 2019, the paper shows that grassroots gaming groups promote forms of communication, connectivity, and community which the military's stigmatizing reintegration and mental health programs often do not. The core argument developed is that while they do not embrace an antimilitarist ethos, through their promotion of mental and physical recovery, veterans’ gaming groups can be read as important sites of everyday resistance to the violences enacted by the US military on its personnel. Unsettling critical scholarly assumptions about what resistance looks like, and where it takes place, the paper ultimately demonstrates that it is possible to challenge the embodied alienations of militarism from within.
Indicators and Success Stories: The UN Sustaining Peace Agenda, Bureaucratic Power, and Knowledge Production in Post-War Settings
Authors: Martin de Almagro Maria
Published: July 2021

Most discussions on knowledge production in peacebuilding and conflict management have focused on the study of epistemic communities and strategic coalitions of global and local actors. This article shifts the focus away from who produces knowledge to the underexplored question of how knowledge is generated, repackaged, deployed, or ignored. Combining sociology of knowledge approaches with feminist governmentality scholarship, I critically interrogate the role of reports as knowledge production artifacts and report writing as bureaucratic practices that serve to design and implement UN Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) projects on Sustaining Peace. Specifically, I analyze the role of reports and reporting in four PBF projects on gender and reconciliation in Liberia, and I show how through the mechanisms of persuasion and homogenization, reports serve not only to measure success and failure and to produce contextualized knowledge, but also to exert symbolic power, (re)producing authoritative knowledge on women, gender and reconciliation, and giving legitimacy to external interventions. Studying how knowledge is produced instead of who produces it enables us to apprehend the entanglement of the local and the global and overcome simplistic binaries and oppositions, all while paying attention to how the production of knowledge, and its silences, remains embedded in global power relations.
Filth Fly Impacts to Animal Production in the United States and Associated Research and Extension Needs
Authors: Machtinger Erika T , Gerry Alec C , Murillo Amy C , Talley Justin L
Published: July 2021

Many flies are considered serious pests of livestock, poultry, and equids. These pests can negatively impact animal welfare and contribute to considerable production losses. Management of filth fly pests in particular, including the house fly (Musca domestica L.), stable fly (Stomoxys calcitrans (L.)), horn fly (Haematobia irritans (L.)), face fly (Musca autumnalis De Geer) (Diptera: Muscidae), and little or lesser house fly (Fannia canicularis (L.) (Diptera: Fanniidae)), has been a research and Extension priority of veterinary entomologists for many decades. However, ongoing changes to animal husbandry and production practices, coupled with an increasing development of behavioral and physiological resistance to insecticides require renewed focus on new and more effective management strategies. This article is the first in a series of updates to these historical reports and the purpose is to serve as a resource for veterinary practitioners, consultants, funding agencies, veterinary entomologists, industry, commodity groups, and the scientific community working towards control of these pests. Companion articles will review individual filth fly species of importance to animal agriculture in the United States
Membrane-type I matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP), lipid metabolism, and therapeutic implications
Authors: Xia Xiao-Dan , Alabi Adekunle , Wang Maggie , Gu Hong-Mei , Yang Rui Zhe , Wang Gui-Qing , Zhang Da-Wei
Published: July 2021

Lipids exert many essential physiological functions, such as serving as a structural component of biological membranes, storing energy, and regulating cell signal transduction. Dysregulation of lipid metabolism can lead to dyslipidemia related to various human diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Therefore, lipid metabolism is strictly regulated through multiple mechanisms at different levels, including the extracellular matrix. Membrane-type I matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP), a zinc-dependent endopeptidase, proteolytically cleaves extracellular matrix components, and non-matrix proteins, thereby regulating many physiological and pathophysiological processes. Emerging evidence supports the vital role of MT1-MMP in lipid metabolism. For example, MT1-MMP mediates ectodomain shedding of low-density lipoprotein receptor and increases plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and the development of atherosclerosis. It also increases the vulnerability of atherosclerotic plaque by promoting collagen cleavage. Furthermore, it can cleave the extracellular matrix of adipocytes, affecting adipogenesis and the development of obesity. Therefore, the activity of MT1-MMP is strictly regulated by multiple mechanisms, such as autocatalytic cleavage, endocytosis and exocytosis, and post-translational modifications. Here, we summarize the latest advances in MT1-MMP, mainly focusing on its role in lipid metabolism, the molecular mechanisms regulating the function and expression of MT1-MMP, and their pharmacotherapeutic implications.
Sleep Patterns Related to Emotion Dysregulation Among Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Fisher Rachel S , Dattilo Taylor M , Sharkey Christina M , Traino Katherine A , Espeleta Hannah C , Krietsch Kendra N , Chaney John M , Mullins Larry L
Published: July 2021

Objective

Adolescents and young adults in the college setting often report poor sleep hygiene and quality. These sleep difficulties may be related to emotion dysregulation, which is highly relevant to broader adjustment. The current study aimed to empirically identify latent groups of healthy college students with distinct subjective sleep patterns and examine differences in emotion dysregulation between subgroups.

Methods

College students (N = 476; Mage=19.38) completed the Adolescent Sleep–Wake Scale—Revised, Adolescent Sleep Hygiene Scale—Revised, and Difficulties in Emotion Dysregulation Scale. Most participants were White (78%), non-Hispanic/Latinx (85%), and female (77%). Latent profile analysis identified patterns of sleep with maximum likelihood estimation. Bolck–Croon–Hagenaars procedure evaluated differences in emotion dysregulation by class.

Results

A three-class model had optimal fit, Bayesian information criterion = 11,577.001, Bootstrapped Parametric Likelihood Ratio Test = −5,763.042, p < .001, entropy = .815. The three profiles identified were good sleep (overall high sleep quality and hygiene; n = 219), moderate sleep (low sleep quality with mix of low and high sleep hygiene; n = 221), and poor sleep (very low sleep quality and hygiene; n = 36). Those in the good sleep group (M = 68.06, SE = 1.5) reported significantly less emotion dysregulation than the moderate sleep group (M = 92.12, SE = 1.67; X2(2) = 98.34, p = .001) and the poor sleep group (M = 99.51, SE = 4.10; p < .001). The moderate and poor sleep groups did not significantly differ, X2(2) = 2.60, p = .11.

Conclusions

Emotion dysregulation differed across three sleep profiles, with participants classified in the good sleep group reporting, on average, the lowest emotion dysregulation, compared to the moderate and poor sleep groups. These findings highlight contextual factors of sleep that may be clinically targeted to promote emotion regulation.
Analysis on the accuracy of CT-guided radioactive I-125 seed implantation with 3D printing template assistance in the treatment of thoracic malignant tumors
Authors: Ji Zhe , Sun Haitao , Jiang Yuliang , Chen Yi , Guo Fuxin , Fan Jinghong , Wang Junjie
Published: July 2021

This article analyzes the accuracy of needle track and dose of a 3-dimensional printing template (3DPT) in the treatment of thoracic tumor with radioactive I-125 seed implantation (RISI). A total of 28 patients were included. The technical process included: (i) preoperative CT positioning, (ii) preoperative planning design, (iii) 3DPT design and printing, (iv) 3DPT alignment, (v) puncture and seed implantation. The errors of needle position and dosimetric parameters were analyzed. A total of 318 needles were used. The mean errors in needle depth, needle insertion point, needle tip and needle angle were 0.52 ± 0.48 cm, 3.4 ± 1.7 mm, 4.4 ± 2.9 mm and 2.8 ± 1.7°, respectively. The differences between actual needle insertion angle and needle depth and those designed in the preoperative were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The mean values of all the errors of the chest wall cases were smaller than those of the lungs, and the differences were statistically significant (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the D90 calculated in the postoperative plan and those designed in the preoperative and intraoperative plans (p > 0.05). Some dosimetric parameters of preoperative plans such as V100, V200, CI and HI were not consistent with that of preoperative plans, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). However, there were no statistical difference in the dosimetric parameters between the postoperative plans and intraoperative plans (p > 0.05). We conclude that for thoracic tumors, even under the guidance of 3DPT, there will be errors. The plan should be optimized in real time during the operation.
Radon inhalation decreases DNA damage induced by oxidative stress in mouse organs via the activation of antioxidative functions
Authors: Kataoka Takahiro , Shuto Hina , Naoe Shota , Yano Junki , Kanzaki Norie , Sakoda Akihiro , Tanaka Hiroshi , Hanamoto Katsumi , Mitsunobu Fumihiro , Terato Hiroaki , Yamaoka Kiyonori
Published: July 2021

Radon inhalation decreases the level of lipid peroxide (LPO); this is attributed to the activation of antioxidative functions. This activation contributes to the beneficial effects of radon therapy, but there are no studies on the risks of radon therapy, such as DNA damage. We evaluated the effect of radon inhalation on DNA damage caused by oxidative stress and explored the underlying mechanisms. Mice were exposed to radon inhalation at concentrations of 2 or 20 kBq/m3 (for one, three, or 10 days). The 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels decreased in the brains of mice that inhaled 20 kBq/m3 radon for three days and in the kidneys of mice that inhaled 2 or 20 kBq/m3 radon for one, three or 10 days. The 8-OHdG levels in the small intestine decreased by approximately 20–40% (2 kBq/m3 for three days or 20 kBq/m3 for one, three or 10 days), but there were no significant differences in the 8-OHdG levels between mice that inhaled a sham treatment and those that inhaled radon. There was no significant change in the levels of 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase, which plays an important role in DNA repair. However, the level of Mn-superoxide dismutase (SOD) increased by 15–60% and 15–45% in the small intestine and kidney, respectively, following radon inhalation. These results suggest that Mn-SOD probably plays an important role in the inhibition of oxidative DNA damage.
Automatic contour segmentation of cervical cancer using artificial intelligence
Authors: Kano Yosuke , Ikushima Hitoshi , Sasaki Motoharu , Haga Akihiro
Published: July 2021

In cervical cancer treatment, radiation therapy is selected based on the degree of tumor progression, and radiation oncologists are required to delineate tumor contours. To reduce the burden on radiation oncologists, an automatic segmentation of the tumor contours would prove useful. To the best of our knowledge, automatic tumor contour segmentation has rarely been applied to cervical cancer treatment. In this study, diffusion-weighted images (DWI) of 98 patients with cervical cancer were acquired. We trained an automatic tumor contour segmentation model using 2D U-Net and 3D U-Net to investigate the possibility of applying such a model to clinical practice. A total of 98 cases were employed for the training, and they were then predicted by swapping the training and test images. To predict tumor contours, six prediction images were obtained after six training sessions for one case. The six images were then summed and binarized to output a final image through automatic contour segmentation. For the evaluation, the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and Hausdorff distance (HD) was applied to analyze the difference between tumor contour delineation by radiation oncologists and the output image. The DSC ranged from 0.13 to 0.93 (median 0.83, mean 0.77). The cases with DSC <0.65 included tumors with a maximum diameter < 40 mm and heterogeneous intracavitary concentration due to necrosis. The HD ranged from 2.7 to 9.6 mm (median 4.7 mm). Thus, the study confirmed that the tumor contours of cervical cancer can be automatically segmented with high accuracy.
Risk scorecard to minimize impact of COVID-19 when reopening
Authors: Lim Shin B , Pung Rachael , Tan Kellie , Lang Jocelyn H S , Yong Dominique Z X , Teh Shi-Hua , Quah Elizabeth , Sun Yinxiaohe , Ma Stefan , Lee Vernon J M
Published: July 2021

Background

We present a novel approach for exiting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdowns using a ‘risk scorecard’ to prioritize activities to resume whilst allowing safe reopening.

Methods

We modelled cases generated in the community/week, incorporating parameters for social distancing, contact tracing and imported cases. We set thresholds for cases and analysed the effect of varying parameters. An online tool to facilitate country-specific use including the modification of parameters (https://sshsphdemos.shinyapps.io/covid_riskbudget/) enables visualization of effects of parameter changes and trade-offs. Local outbreak investigation data from Singapore illustrate this.

Results

Setting a threshold of 0.9 mean number of secondary cases arising from a case to keep R < 1, we showed that opening all activities excluding high-risk ones (e.g. nightclubs) allows cases to remain within threshold; while opening high-risk activities would exceed the threshold and result in escalating cases. An 80% reduction in imported cases per week (141 to 29) reduced steady-state cases by 30% (295 to 205). One-off surges in cases (due to superspreading) had no effect on the steady state if the R remains <1. Increasing the effectiveness of contact tracing (probability of a community case being isolated when infectious) by 33% (0.6 to 0.8) reduced cases by 22% (295 to 231). Cases grew exponentially if the product of the mean number of secondary cases arising from a case and (1—probability of case being isolated) was >1.

Conclusions

Countries can utilize a ‘risk scorecard’ to balance relaxations for travel and domestic activity depending on factors that reduce disease impact, including hospital/ICU capacity, contact tracing, quarantine and vaccination. The tool enabled visualization of the combinations of imported cases and activity levels on the case numbers and the trade-offs required. For vaccination, a reduction factor should be applied both for likelihood of an infected case being present and a close contact getting infected.
Computational Errors and Suspension in a PWK Epistemic Agent
Authors: Carrara Massimiliano , Zhu Wei
Published: July 2021

In a computational program there can be two kinds of errors: (i) critical errors and (ii) non-critical errors. A critical error stops the program in a global way, which means the error cannot be fixed in the subsequent computation process. A non-critical error partially stops the computation program, and the error can be fixed in the subsequent computation process. We argue that two kinds of errors correspond to two kinds of suspension and can be modeled using Paraconsistent Weak Kleene ($ {\textsf{PWK}}$) belief revision theory, with the help of a new interpretation of the third value of $ {\textsf{PWK}}$, that is, off-topic. According to this new interpretation, if a proposition obtains the third value $\textbf{u}$, it means it is off-topic. Within our framework of $ {\textsf{PWK}}$ belief revision theory, we will show that a non-critical error corresponds to a non-critical suspension and that a critical error corresponds to a critical suspension.
High-redshift quasars at z ≥ 3 – I. Radio spectra
Authors: Sotnikova Yu , Mikhailov A , Mufakharov T , Mingaliev M , Bursov N , Semenova T , Stolyarov V , Udovitskiy R , Kudryashova A , Erkenov A
Published: July 2021

We present the radio properties of optically selected quasars with z ≥ 3. The complete sample consists of 102 quasars with a flux density level S1.4 ≥ 100 mJy in a declination range −35° ≤ Dec. ≤ +49°. The observations were obtained in 2017–2020 using the radio telescope RATAN-600. We measured flux densities at six frequencies 1.2, 2.3, 4.7, 8.2, 11.2, and 22 GHz quasi-simultaneously with uncertainties of 9–31 per cent. The detection rate is 100, 89, and 46 per cent at 4.7, 11.2, and 22 GHz, respectively. We have analysed the averaged radio spectra of the quasars based on the RATAN and literature data. We classify 46 per cent of radio spectra as peaked-spectrum, 24 per cent as flat, and none as ultra-steep spectra (α ≤ −1.1). The multifrequency data reveal that a peaked spectral shape (PS) is a common feature for bright high-redshift quasars. This indicates the dominance of bright compact core emission and the insignificant contribution of extended optically thin kpc-scale components in observed radio spectra. Using these new radio data, the radio loudness log  R was estimated for 71 objects with a median value of 3.5, showing that the majority of the quasars are highly radio-loud with log  R > 2.5. We have not found any significant correlation between z and α. Several new megahertz- peaked spectrum (MPS) and gigahertz- peaked spectrum (GPS) candidates are suggested. Further studies of their variability and additional low-frequency observations are needed to classify them precisely.
Binary evolution pathways of blue large-amplitude pulsators
Authors: Byrne C M , Stanway E R , Eldridge J J
Published: July 2021

Blue large-amplitude pulsators (BLAPs) are a recently discovered class of pulsating star, believed to be proto-white dwarfs, produced by mass stripping of a red giant when it has a small helium core. An outstanding question is why the stars in this class of pulsator seem to form two distinct groups by surface gravity, despite predictions that stars in the gap between them should also pulsate. We use a binary population synthesis model to identify potential evolutionary pathways that a star can take to become a BLAP. We find that BLAPs can be produced either through common envelope evolution or through Roche lobe overflow, with a main-sequence star or an evolved compact object being responsible for the envelope stripping. The mass distribution of the inferred population indicates that fewer stars would be expected in the range of masses intermediate to the two known groups of pulsators, suggesting that the lack of observational discoveries in this region may be a result of the underlying population of pre-white dwarf stars. We also consider metallicity variation and find evidence that BLAPs at Z = 0.010 (half-solar) would be pulsationally unstable and may also be more common. Based on this analysis, we expect the Milky Way to host around 12 000 BLAPs and we predict the number density of sources expected in future observations such as the Legacy Survey of Space and Time at the Vera Rubin Observatory.
Prospects of newly detecting nearby star-forming galaxies by the Cherenkov Telescope Array
Authors: Shimono Naoya , Totani Tomonori , Sudoh Takahiro
Published: July 2021

Prospects of the Cherenkov Telescope Array (CTA) for the study of very high energy gamma-ray emission from nearby star-forming galaxies are investigated. In the previous work, we constructed a model to calculate luminosity and energy spectrum of pion-decay gamma-ray emission produced by cosmic ray interaction with the interstellar medium (ISM), from four physical quantities of galaxies [star formation rate (SFR), gas mass, stellar mass, and effective radius]. The model is in good agreement with the observed GeV–TeV emission of several nearby galaxies. Applying this model to nearby galaxies that are not yet detected in TeV (mainly from the KINGFISH catalogue), their hadronic gamma-ray luminosities and spectra are predicted. We identify galaxies of the highest chance of detection by CTA, including NGC 5236, M33, NGC 6946, and IC 342. Concerning gamma-ray spectra, NGC 1482 is particularly interesting because our model predicts that this galaxy is close to the calorimetric limit and its gamma-ray spectral index in GeV–TeV is close to that of cosmic ray protons injected into ISM. Therefore, this galaxy may be detectable by CTA even though its GeV flux is below the Fermi Large Area Telescope sensitivity limit. In the TeV regime, most galaxies are not in the calorimetric limit, and the predicted TeV flux is lower than that assuming a simple relation between the TeV luminosity and SFR of M82 and NGC 253, typically by a factor of 15. This means that a more sophisticated model beyond the calorimetric limit assumption is necessary to study TeV emission from star-forming galaxies.
SRG/eROSITA discovery of a large circular SNR candidate G116.6−26.1: SN Ia explosion probing the gas of the Milky Way halo?
Authors: Churazov E M , Khabibullin I I , Bykov A M , Chugai N N , Sunyaev R A , Zinchenko I I
Published: July 2021

We report a discovery of a new X-ray-selected supernova remnant (SNR) candidate SRGe J0023+3625 = G116.6−26.1 found in the SRG/eROSITA all-sky survey. The source features a large angular extent (∼4° in diameter), nearly circular shape, and X-ray spectrum dominated by emission lines of helium- and hydrogen-like oxygen. It lacks bright counterparts of similar extent at other wavelengths which could be unequivocally associated with it. Given the relatively high Galactic latitude of the source, b ≈ −26°, we interpret these observational properties as an indication of the off-disc location of this SNR candidate. Namely, we propose that this object originated from a Type Ia supernotva which exploded some 40 000 yr ago in the low density ($\sim 10^{-3}\, {\rm cm^{-3}}$) and hot ($\sim (1{-}2)\times 10^6\, {\rm K}$) gas of the Milky Way halo at a distance of ∼3 kpc from the Sun. The low density of the halo gas implies that the cooling and collisional ionization equilibrium (CEI) time-scales downstream of the forward shock are much longer than the age of the SNR. This results in a relatively soft spectrum, reflecting pre-shock ionization state of the gas, and strong boost in the plasma emissivity (compared to CEI) due to enhanced collisional excitation through the increased electron temperature. If confirmed, such a rare object would provide us with a unique ‘in situ’ probe of physical conditions (density, temperature and metallicity) near the interface between the Milky Way’s disc and the halo.
Multiwavelength observations reveal a faint candidate black hole X-ray binary in IGR J17285−2922
Authors: Stoop M , van den Eijnden J , Degenaar N , Bahramian A , Swihart S J , Strader J , Jiménez-Ibarra F , Muñoz-Darias T , Armas Padilla M , Shaw A W , Maccarone T J , Wijnands R , Russell T D , Santisteban J V Hernández , Miller-Jones J C A , Russell D M , Maitra D , Heinke C O , Sivakoff G R , Lewis F , Bramich D M
Published: July 2021

IGR J17285−2922 is a known X-ray binary with a low peak 2–10 keV X-ray luminosity of ∼ 1036 erg s−1 during outburst. IGR J17285−2922 exhibited two outbursts in 2003 and 2010 and went into outburst again in 2019. We have monitored this ∼ 4-month long 2019 outburst with Swift in X-ray and the Very Large Array in radio. We have also obtained four optical spectra with the Gran Telescopio Canarias and Southern Astrophysical Research Telescope, three optical photometry measurements with the Las Cumbres Observatory, and one near-infrared spectrum with the Gemini South telescope. The ratio between its X-ray and radio luminosity is consistent with both samples of neutron star and black hole (BH) X-ray binaries, while the ratio between the X-ray and optical luminosity is consistent with BH X-ray binaries. Studying the evolution of its X-ray power-law index throughout the outburst, we find additional evidence for a BH as compact object. The four optical spectra show no H α emission and the nIR spectrum shows no Brγ emission, suggesting that the donor star could be hydrogen-poor and hence that IGR J17285−2922 might have an ultracompact binary orbit. The shape of the X-ray light curve is well described by an exponential, followed by a linear decay, from which we obtain a relation between the orbital period Porb and the binary mass ratio. We discuss how this relation is consistent with theoretical predictions and known ultracompact X-ray binaries. Lastly, we discuss how the observed properties are reminiscent of short-Porb BH X-ray binaries.