bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of the OBELIX monolithic CMOS pixel sensor for an upgrade of the Belle II vertex detector
Authors: Pham T.H. , Auguste D. , Babeluk M. , Barbero M. , Baudot J. , Bergauer T. , Bernlochner F. , Bertolone G. , Bettarini S. , Bosi F. , Bonis J. , Boudagga R. , Breugnon P. , Buch Y. , Buchsteiner F. , Calo M.S. , Casarosa G. , Dingfelder J. , Dorokhov A. , Federici L. , Fillinger T. , Finck C. , Forti F. , Fougeron D. , Frey A. , Gaioni L. , Giroletti S. , Himmi A. , Kou E. , Hu Guo C. , Irmler C. , Karagounis M. , Kishishita T. , Krüger H. , Kumar A. , Marinas C. , Massa M. , Massaccesi L. , Mazorra de Cos J. , Minuti M. , Mondal S. , Morel F. , Nakamura K. , Pangaud P. , Peinaud Y. , Ratti L. , Re V. , Riceputi E. , Ripp Baudot I. , Rizzo G. , Schall L. , Schwanda C. , Schwenker B. , Schwickardi M. , Stavroulakis P. , Wang S. , Wessel C. , Winter M. , Traversi G. , Valin I. , Xu D. ,   the Belle II VTX collaboration and Belle II VTX Upgrade Group
Published: April 2024

The Belle II collaboration has initiated a program to upgrade its detector in order to address the challenges set by the increase of the SuperKEKB collider luminosity, targeting 6×1035 cm2 s-1. A monolithic CMOS pixel sensor named OBELIX (Optimized BELle II pIXel) is proposed to equip 5 detection layers upgrading the current vertex detector. Based on the existing TJ-Monopix2, OBELIX is currently designed in 180 nm CMOS process.
Pruning: a tool to optimize the layout of large scale arrays for ultra-high-energy air-shower detection
Authors: Benoit-Lévy Aurélien , Kotera Kumiko , Tueros Matías
Published: April 2024

The deployment of several large scale arrays is envisioned
to study astroparticles at ultra-high energies. In order to
circumvent the heavy computational costs of exploring and optimizing
their layouts, we have developed a pruning method. It consists in
i) running a set of microscopic simulations and interpolate them
over a dense, regularly spaced array of detection units, and
ii) pruning the unnecessary units out of the layout, in order to
obtain the shower footprint on a newly shaped layout. This method
offers flexibility to test various layout parameters, instrumental
constraints, and physical inputs, with a drastic reduction in the
required CPU time. The method can be universally applied to optimize
arrays of any size, and using any detection techniques.

For demonstration, we apply the pruning tool to radio antenna
layouts, which allows us to discuss the interplay between the energy
and inclination of air-showers on the size of the radio footprint
and the intensity of the signal on the ground. Some rule-of-thumb
conclusions that can be drawn for this specific case are: i) a
hexagonal geometry is more efficient than a triangular geometry,
ii) the detection efficiency of the array is stable to changes in
the spacing between radio antennas around 1000 m step size,
iii) for a given number of antennas, adding a granular infill on top
of a coarse hexagonal array is more efficient than instrumenting the
full array with a less dense spacing.
Key drivers and pressures of global water scarcity hotspots
Authors: Leijnse Myrthe , F P Bierkens Marc , H M Gommans Kim , Lin Daisy , Tait Alex , Wanders Niko
Published: April 2024

Global freshwater resources are vital to humanity and Earth’s ecosystems, yet about one third of the global population is affected by water scarcity for at least one month per year. In these areas, the overuse of freshwater resources can lead to the threat of depletion, marking them as the global ‘water scarcity hotspots’. This study combines outputs from a global hydrological model (PCR-GLOBWB 2) with an extensive literature search to provide a comprehensive intercomparison of the key drivers, pressures, states, impacts and responses (DPSIR) that shape the water gap between water demand and availability at the most important water scarcity hotspots worldwide. Hydroclimatic change, population growth, and water use for the industrial, municipal and agricultural sectors are the most important driving and pressuring forces on the water gap, affecting both water quality and quantity. These drivers and pressures have been showing increasing trends at all hotspots, which is concerning for the future development of the water gap. Additionally, we identify and characterize seven clusters of hotspots based on shared DPSIR patterns, revealing their common mechanisms. Our work highlights the diversity of water scarcity related issues at hotspots, especially the variety of impacts involved and governmental responses in place. The results of our DPSIR analysis provide valuable insights for building causal networks representing water gap dynamics at the hotspots. They form a foundation for conceptual models that illuminate human-water interactions, trade-offs, and synergies at the hotspots, while guiding policymakers in addressing the multifaceted challenge of closing the water gap.
Preconditioning of mountain permafrost towards degradation detected by electrical resistivity
Authors: Hauck Christian , Hilbich Christin
Published: April 2024

Warming permafrost has been detected worldwide and is projected to continue during the next century by many modelling studies. In mountain regions, this can lead to potentially hazardous impacts on short time-scales by an increased tendency for slope instabilities. However, time scales of permafrost thaw and the role of the ice content are less clear, especially in heterogeneous mountain terrain, where ice content can vary between zero and supersaturated conditions over small distances. Warming of permafrost near the freezing point shows therefore complex inter-annual behaviour due to latent heat effects during thawing and the influence of the snow-cover, which is governed by highly non-linear processes itself. Here, we demonstrate a preconditioning effect within near-surface layers in mountain permafrost that causes non-linear degradation and accelerates thaw. We hypothesise that a summer heat wave, as has occurred in the Central European summers 2003, 2015 and 2022, will enhance permafrost degradation if the active layer and the top of the permafrost layer are already preconditioned, i.e. have reduced latent heat content. This preconditioning can already be effectuated by a singular warm year, leading to exceptionally strong melting of the ground ice. On sloping terrain this ice-loss can be considered as irreversible, as large parts of the melted water will drain during the process, and an equivalent build-up of ice in cold years does not happen on similar time-scales as the melting. We propose a simple geophysical approach based on electrical resistivity tomography surveys that can assess the state of preconditioning in the absence of boreholes. In addition, we will show that resistivity data from a total of 124 permafrost sites in the Andes, Europe, and Antarctic adhere to a distinct power law behaviour between unfrozen and frozen states, which confirms the consistent electrical behaviour of permafrost and active layer materials over a wide range of landforms and material composition.
Polar-coordinate line-projection light-curing continuous 3D printing for tubular structures
Authors: Wang Huiyuan , Liu Siqin , Yin Xincheng , Huang Mingming , Fu Yanzhe , Chen Xun , Wang Chao , Sun Jingyong , Yan Xin , Han Jianmin , Yang Jiping , Wang Zhijian , Wang Lizhen , Fan Yubo , Li Jiebo
Published: April 2024

3D printing techniques offer an effective method in fabricating complex radially multi-material structures. However, it is challenging for complex and delicate radially multi-material model geometries without supporting structures, such as tissue vessels and tubular graft, among others. In this work, we tackle these challenges by developing a polar digital light processing technique which uses a rod as the printing platform. The 3D model fabrication is accomplished through line projection. The rotation and translation of the rod are synchronized to project and illuminate the photosensitive material volume. By controlling the distance between the rod and the printing window, we achieved the printing of tubular structures with a minimum wall thickness as thin as 50 micrometers. By controlling the width of fine slits at the printing window, we achieved the printing of structures with a minimum feature size of 10 micrometers. Our process accomplished the fabrication of thin-walled tubular graft structure with a thickness of only 100 micrometers and lengths of several centimeters within a timeframe of just 100 s. Additionally, it enables the printing of axial multi-material structures, thereby achieving adjustable mechanical strength. This method is conducive to rapid customization of tubular grafts and the manufacturing of tubular components in fields such as dentistry, aerospace, and more.
Fusarium wilt constrains mungbean yield due to reduction in source availability
Authors: Van Haeften Shanice , Kang Yichen , Dudley Caitlin , Potgieter Andries , Robinson Hannah , Dinglasan Eric , Wenham Kylie , Noble Thomas , Kelly Lisa , Douglas Colin A , Hickey Lee , Smith Millicent R
Published: April 2024

Mungbean is an important source of plant protein for consumers and a high-value export crop for growers across Asia, Australia and Africa. However, many commercial cultivars are highly vulnerable to biotic stresses, which rapidly reduce yield within the season. Fusarium oxysporum is a soil-borne pathogen that is a growing concern for mungbean growers globally. This pathogen causes Fusarium wilt by infecting the root system of the plant resulting in devastating yield reductions. To understand the impact of Fusarium on mungbean development and productivity and to identify tolerant genotypes, a panel of 23 diverse accessions was studied. Field trials conducted in 2016 and 2021 in Warwick, Queensland, Australia under rainfed conditions investigated the variation in phenology, canopy and yield component traits under disease and disease-free conditions. Analyses revealed a high degree of genetic variation for all traits. By comparing the performance of these traits across these two environments, we identified key traits that underpin yield under disease and disease-free conditions. Aboveground biomass components at 50 % flowering were identified as significant drivers of yield development under disease-free conditions and when impacted by Fusarium resulted in up to 96 % yield reduction. Additionally, eight genotypes were identified to be tolerant to Fusarium. These genotypes were found to display differing phenological and morphological behaviours, thereby demonstrating the potential to breed tolerant lines with a range of diverse trait variations. The identification of tolerant genotypes that sustain yield under disease pressure may be exploited in crop improvement programs.
Phyllodulcin from the hexane fraction of Hydrangea macrophylla inhibits glucose-induced lipid accumulation and reactive oxygen species generation in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Cho Myogyeong , Park Harin , Lee Sang Hyun , Kim Myo-Jeong , Jang Miran
Published: April 2024

We confirmed that the hexane layer of Hydrangea macrophylla leaf extract (HLH) is rich in phyllodulcin (PD), an alternative sweetener, through high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. To investigate in vivo activity of HLH and its PD, acute toxicity and growth rate of Caenorhabditis elegans were tested and there are no clinical abnormalities at 125-500 µg/mL of HLH. HLH decreased the total lipid and triglyceride contents dose-dependently in glucose-induced obese worms. Also, HLH increased survival rates under oxidative and thermal stress and decreased body reactive oxygen species (ROS) contents significantly. Such antioxidant properties of HLH were attributed to the enhanced activity of the antioxidant enzyme catalase. To determine whether the effect of HLH was due to PD, worms were treated with PD (concentration contained in HLH), and inhibitory effects on total lipids and ROS were observed. Our results suggest that HLH and its PD as a natural alternative sweetener can be used as materials to improve metabolic diseases.
WAS IT A MATch I SAW? Approximate palindromes lead to overstated false match rates in benchmarks using reversed sequences
Authors: Glidden-Handgis George , Wheeler Travis J
Published: April 2024

Background

Software for labeling biological sequences typically produces a theory-based statistic for each match (the E-value) that indicates the likelihood of seeing that match’s score by chance. E-values accurately predict false match rate for comparisons of random (shuffled) sequences, and thus provide a reasoned mechanism for setting score thresholds that enable high sensitivity with low expected false match rate. This threshold-setting strategy is challenged by real biological sequences, which contain regions of local repetition and low sequence complexity that cause excess matches between non-homologous sequences. Knowing this, tool developers often develop benchmarks that use realistic-seeming decoy sequences to explore empirical tradeoffs between sensitivity and false match rate. A recent trend has been to employ reversed biological sequences as realistic decoys, because these preserve the distribution of letters and the existence of local repeats, while disrupting the original sequence’s functional properties. However, we and others have observed that sequences appear to produce high scoring alignments to their reversals with surprising frequency, leading to overstatement of false match risk that may negatively affect downstream analysis.

Results

We demonstrate that an alignment between a sequence S and its (possibly mutated) reversal tends to produce higher scores than alignment between truly unrelated sequences, even when S is a shuffled string with no notable repetitive or low-complexity regions. This phenomenon is due to the unintuitive fact that (even randomly shuffled) sequences contain palindromes that are on average longer than the longest common substrings (LCS) shared between permuted variants of the same sequence. Though the expected palindrome length is only slightly larger than the expected LCS, the distribution of alignment scores involving reversed sequences is strongly right-shifted, leading to greatly increased frequency of high-scoring alignments to reversed sequences.

Impact

Overestimates of false match risk can motivate unnecessarily high score thresholds, leading to potentially reduced true match sensitivity. Also, when tool sensitivity is only reported up to the score of the first matched decoy sequence, a large decoy set consisting of reversed sequences can obscure sensitivity differences between tools. As a result of these observations, we advise that reversed biological sequences be used as decoys only when care is taken to remove positive matches in the original (un-reversed) sequences, or when overstatement of false labeling is not a concern. Though the primary focus of the analysis is on sequence annotation, we also demonstrate that the prevalence of internal palindromes may lead to an overstatement of the rate of false labels in protein identification with mass spectrometry.
Antifungal-resistant Trichophyton indotineae: transmission is occurring outside previously identified endemic areas – are we prepared?
Authors: Abdolrasouli Alireza , Hay Roderick J
Published: April 2024

This is a response to ‘Rapid emergence of recalcitrant dermatophytosis caused by a cluster of multidrug-resistant Trichophyton indotineae in China’ by Xie et al.
Midfacial toddler excoriation syndrome (MiTES): case series, diagnostic criteria and evidence for a pathogenic mechanism
Authors: Sarveswaran Nivedita , Pamela Yunisa , Reddy Akhila A N , Mustari Akash P , Parthasarathi Anchala , Mancini Anthony J , Bishnoi Anuradha , Inamadar Arun C , Olabi Bayanne , Browne Fiona , Deshmukh Gargi N , McWilliam Kenneth , Vinay Keshavamurthy , Srinivas Sahana , Ibbs Samantha , Natarajan Sivakumar , Rao Vadlamudi R , Zawar Vijay , Gowda Vykuntaraju K , Shaikh Samiha S , Moss Celia , Woods Christopher G , Drissi Ichrak
Published: April 2024

Background

PRDM12 polyalanine tract expansions cause two different disorders: midfacial toddler excoriation syndrome (MiTES; itch with normal pain sensation associated with 18 homozygous alanines (18A); and congenital insensitivity to pain (CIP) with normal itch associated with 19 homozygous alanines (19A). Knowledge of the phenotype, genotype and disease mechanism of MiTES is incomplete. Why 18A vs. 19A PRDM12 can cause almost opposite phenotypes is unknown; no other polyalanine or polyglutamine tract expansion disease causes two such disparate phenotypes.

Objectives

To assess the genotype and phenotype of nine new, nine atypical and six previously reported patients diagnosed with MiTES.

Methods

Using cell lines with homozygous PR domain zinc finger protein 12 (PRDM12) containing 12 alanines (12A; normal), 18A (MiTES) and 19A (CIP), we examined PRDM12 aggregation and subcellular localization by image-separation confocal microscopy and subcellular fractionation Western blotting.

Results

MiTES presents in the first year of life; in all cases the condition regresses over the first decade, leaving scarring. The MiTES phenotype is highly distinctive. Features overlapping with PRDM12 CIP are rarely found. The genotype–phenotype study of the PRDM12 polyalanine tract shows that having 7–15 alanines is normal; 16–18 alanines is associated with MiTES; 19 alanines leads to CIP; and no clinically atypical cases of MiTES had a polyalanine tract expansion. PRDM12 aggregation and subcellular localization differed significantly between 18A and normal 12A cell lines and between 18A and 19A cell lines. MiTES is a new protein-aggregation disease.

Conclusions

We provide diagnostic criteria for MiTES and improved longitudinal data. MiTES and CIP are distinct phenotypes, despite their genotypes varying by a single alanine in the PRDM12 polyalanine tract. We found clear distinctions between the cellular phenotypes of normal, MiTES and CIP cells. We hypothesize that the developmental environment of the trigeminal ganglion is unique and critically sensitive to pre- and postnatal levels of PRDM12.
Health-related quality of life in patients with conditions affecting the hand: meta-analysis
Authors: Geoghegan Luke , Carolina Maria , French James , Harrison Conrad J , Rodrigues Jeremy N
Published: April 2024

Background

Health state utility values provide the quality component of quality-adjusted life years and are essential for health economic analyses, such as the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Technology Appraisal. The aims of this systematic review were to: catalogue utility values for health states experienced by patients with hand conditions; provide pooled utility estimates for common hand conditions; and determine how utilities have been estimated.

Methods

A PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted (registered in PROSPERO, the international prospective register of systematic reviews (CRD42021226098)). Five databases were searched from inception until April 2023 (Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL)). All studies that reported primary utility values for hand health states in adult patients were eligible for inclusion. Pooled utility estimates were determined across conditions and intervention status using random-effects meta-analysis.

Results

A total of 10 254 articles were identified; 57 studies met the full inclusion criteria and reported 363 distinct health state utility values. Health state utility values were estimated using a range of methods; the most common measure was the EQ-5D. Pooled utility estimates for carpal tunnel syndrome and hand osteoarthritis before surgical intervention were 0.69 (95% c.i. 0.66 to 0.73) and 0.63 (95% c.i. 0.60 to 0.67) respectively.

Conclusion

Pooled utility estimates for patients with untreated carpal tunnel syndrome and hand osteoarthritis are 11% and 18% lower than age-matched population norms respectively. Hand conditions have a significant detrimental impact on health-related quality of life and this study provides catalogued utility values for use in future economic analyses to support the delivery of value-based hand surgery.
Abnormal gamma phase-amplitude coupling in the parahippocampal cortex is associated with network hyperexcitability in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Prabhu Pooja , Morise Hirofumi , Kudo Kiwamu , Beagle Alexander , Mizuiri Danielle , Syed Faatimah , Kotegar Karunakar A , Findlay Anne , Miller Bruce L , Kramer Joel H , Rankin Katherine P , Garcia Paul A , Kirsch Heidi E , Vossel Keith , Nagarajan Srikantan S , Ranasinghe Kamalini G
Published: April 2024

While animal models of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have shown altered gamma oscillations (∼40 Hz) in local neural circuits, the low signal-to-noise ratio of gamma in the resting human brain precludes its quantification via conventional spectral estimates. Phase-amplitude coupling (PAC) indicating the dynamic integration between the gamma amplitude and the phase of low-frequency (4–12 Hz) oscillations is a useful alternative to capture local gamma activity. In addition, PAC is also an index of neuronal excitability as the phase of low-frequency oscillations that modulate gamma amplitude, effectively regulates the excitability of local neuronal firing. In this study, we sought to examine the local neuronal activity and excitability using gamma PAC, within brain regions vulnerable to early AD pathophysiology—entorhinal cortex and parahippocampus, in a clinical population of patients with AD and age-matched controls. Our clinical cohorts consisted of a well-characterized cohort of AD patients (n = 50; age, 60 ± 8 years) with positive AD biomarkers, and age-matched, cognitively unimpaired controls (n = 35; age, 63 ± 5.8 years). We identified the presence or the absence of epileptiform activity in AD patients (AD patients with epileptiform activity, AD-EPI+, n = 20; AD patients without epileptiform activity, AD-EPI−, n = 30) using long-term electroencephalography (LTM-EEG) and 1-hour long magnetoencephalography (MEG) with simultaneous EEG. Using the source reconstructed MEG data, we computed gamma PAC as the coupling between amplitude of the gamma frequency (30–40 Hz) with phase of the theta (4–8 Hz) and alpha (8–12 Hz) frequency oscillations, within entorhinal and parahippocampal cortices. We found that patients with AD have reduced gamma PAC in the left parahippocampal cortex, compared to age-matched controls. Furthermore, AD-EPI+ patients showed greater reductions in gamma PAC than AD-EPI− in bilateral parahippocampal cortices. In contrast, entorhinal cortices did not show gamma PAC abnormalities in patients with AD. Our findings demonstrate the spatial patterns of altered gamma oscillations indicating possible region-specific manifestations of network hyperexcitability within medial temporal lobe regions vulnerable to AD pathophysiology. Greater deficits in AD-EPI+ suggests that reduced gamma PAC is a sensitive index of network hyperexcitability in AD patients. Collectively, the current results emphasize the importance of investigating the role of neural circuit hyperexcitability in early AD pathophysiology and explore its potential as a modifiable contributor to AD pathobiology.
Development of 3D printed electrospun vascular graft loaded with tetramethylpyrazine for reducing thrombosis and restraining aneurysmal dilatation
Authors: Shen Yihong , Pan Yanjun , Liang Fubang , Song Jiahui , Yu Xiao , Cui Jie , Cai Guangfang , EL-Newehy Mohamed , Abdulhameed Meera Moydeen , Gu Hongbing , Sun Binbin , Yin Meng , Mo Xiumei
Published: April 2024

Background

Small-diameter vascular grafts have become the focus of attention in tissue engineering. Thrombosis and aneurysmal dilatation are the two major complications of the loss of vascular access after surgery. Therefore, we focused on fabricating 3D printed electrospun vascular grafts loaded with tetramethylpyrazine (TMP) to overcome these limitations.

Methods

Based on electrospinning and 3D printing, 3D-printed electrospun vascular grafts loaded with TMP were fabricated. The inner layer of the graft was composed of electrospun poly(L-lactic-co-caprolactone) (PLCL) nanofibers and the outer layer consisted of 3D printed polycaprolactone (PCL) microfibers. The characterization and mechanical properties were tested. The blood compatibility and in vitro cytocompatibility of the grafts were also evaluated. Additionally, rat abdominal aortas were replaced with these 3D-printed electrospun grafts to evaluate their biosafety.

Results

Mechanical tests demonstrated that the addition of PCL microfibers could improve the mechanical properties. In vitro experimental data proved that the introduction of TMP effectively inhibited platelet adhesion. Afterwards, rat abdominal aorta was replaced with 3D-printed electrospun grafts. The 3D-printed electrospun graft loaded with TMP showed good biocompatibility and mechanical strength within 6 months and maintained substantial patency without the occurrence of acute thrombosis. Moreover, no obvious aneurysmal dilatation was observed.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated that 3D-printed electrospun vascular grafts loaded with TMP may have the potential for injured vascular healing.
Association of lichen planus with asthma and allergic rhinitis in the All of Us Research Program: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Richmond Rhys L , Murphy Michael J , Edemobi Princess , Vesely Matthew D , Cohen Jeffrey M
Published: April 2024

In this study, lichen planus was found to be associated with asthma and allergic rhinitis, highlighting a possible shared immunopathogenesis. In this population-based cross-sectional study, the association remained after controlling for covariates.
The impact of hidradenitis suppurativa on work productivity and performance: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Merchant Serena A , Shah Syed F H
Published: April 2024

Background

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder affecting the skinfold regions. There is growing appreciation of the need for socioeconomic factors to be included in multidisciplinary assessments of HS. However, knowledge regarding HS and workplace function is limited.

Objectives

To assess the relationship between HS and workplace function.

Methods

CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and PubMed were systematically searched to collect data from studies in which validated surveys of workplace function were administered to patients with HS.

Results

Of 1932 publications, 12 studies were included in this review and 7 reported sufficient data for meta-analysis. The studies included in this review encompassed 5187 patients with HS and no controls. All studies used the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment questionnaire, reporting percentage scores for absenteeism, presenteeism, total work productivity impairment (TWPI) and total activity impairment (TAI). The pooled mean scores for HS were calculated as 10.17% [95% confidence interval (CI) 8.68–11.66] for absenteeism, 31.13% (95% CI 25.02–37.23) for presenteeism, 34.25% (95% CI 29.37–39.14) for TWPI and 42.23% (95% CI 38.56–45.89) for TAI. Significant heterogeneity was identified; most studies were of ‘poor’ to ‘fair’ quality.

Conclusions

Current evidence suggests considerable impairment of workplace functioning in patients with HS. Our findings point to a significant unmet treatment need with respect to improving working capability in HS. The existing literature is inadequate to reliably assess the mechanisms underlying this effect or to comparatively assess the capabilities of HS therapies to improve workplace function.
Patient-led skin cancer teledermatology without dermoscopy during the COVID-19 pandemic: important lessons for the development of future patient-facing teledermatology and artificial intelligence-assisted ­self-diagnosis
Authors: Ali Omar M E , Wright Beth , Goodhead Charlotte , Hampton Philip J
Published: April 2024

MySkinSelfie is a mobile phone application for skin self-monitoring, enabling secure sharing of patient-captured images with healthcare providers. This retrospective study assessed MySkinSelfie’s role in remote skin cancer assessment at two centres for urgent (melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma) and nonurgent skin cancer referrals, investigating the feasibility of using patient-captured images without dermoscopy for remote diagnosis. The total number of lesions using MySkinSelfie was 814, with a mean patient age of 63 years. Remote consultations reduced face-to-face appointments by 90% for basal cell carcinoma and by 63% for referrals on a 2-week waiting list. Diagnostic concordance (consultant vs. histological diagnosis) rates of 72% and 83% were observed for basal cell carcinoma (n = 107) and urgent skin cancers (n = 704), respectively. Challenges included image quality, workflow integration and lack of dermoscopy. Higher sensitivities were observed in recent artificial intelligence algorithms employing dermoscopy. While patient-captured images proved useful during the COVID-19 pandemic, further research is needed to explore the feasibility of widespread patient-led dermoscopy to enable direct patient-to-artificial intelligence diagnostic assessment.
Effectiveness and Safety of Measures to Prevent Infections and Other Complications Associated With Peripheral Intravenous Catheters: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Dobrescu Andreea , Constantin Alexandru Marian , Pinte Larisa , Chapman Andrea , Ratajczak Piotr , Klerings Irma , Emprechtinger Robert , Allegranzi Benedetta , Zingg Walter , Grayson M Lindsay , Toledo Joao , Gartlehner Gerald , Nussbaumer-Streit Barbara
Published: April 2024

Background

Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) contribute substantially to the global burden of infections. This systematic review assessed 24 infection prevention and control (IPC) interventions to prevent PIVC-associated infections and other complications.

Methods

We searched Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, WHO Global Index Medicus, CINAHL, and reference lists for controlled studies from 1 January 1980–16 March 2023. We dually selected studies, assessed risk of bias, extracted data, and rated the certainty of evidence (COE). For outcomes with 3 or more trials, we conducted Bayesian random-effects meta-analyses.

Results

105 studies met our prespecified eligibility criteria, addressing 16 of the 24 research questions; no studies were identified for 8 research questions. Based on findings of low to high COE, wearing gloves reduced the risk of overall adverse events related to insertion compared with no gloves (1 non-randomized controlled trial [non-RCT]; adjusted risk ratio [RR], .52; 95% CI, .33–.85), and catheter removal based on defined schedules potentially resulted in a lower phlebitis/thrombophlebitis incidence (10 RCTs; RR, 0.74, 95% credible interval, .49–1.01) compared with clinically indicated removal in adults. In neonates, chlorhexidine reduced the phlebitis score compared with non–chlorhexidine-containing disinfection (1 RCT; 0.14 vs 0.68; P = .003). No statistically significant differences were found for other measures.

Conclusions

Despite their frequent use and concern about PIVC-associated complications, this review underscores the urgent need for more high-quality studies on effective IPC methods regarding safe PIVC management. In the absence of valid evidence, adherence to standard precaution measures and documentation remain the most important principles to curb PIVC complications.

Clinical Trials Registration

The protocol was registered in the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/exdb4).
Expanding Access to Noninvasive Prenatal Diagnosis for Monogenic Conditions to Consanguineous Families
Authors: Hanson Britt , Shaw Joe , Povarnitsyn Nikita , Bowns Benjamin , Young Elizabeth , Gerrish Amy , Allen Stephanie , Scotchman Elizabeth , Chitty Lyn S , Chandler Natalie J
Published: April 2024

Background

Cell-free fetal DNA exists within the maternal bloodstream during pregnancy and provides a means for noninvasive prenatal diagnosis (NIPD). Our accredited clinical service offers definitive NIPD for several autosomal recessive (AR) and X-linked conditions using relative haplotype dosage analysis (RHDO). RHDO involves next-generation sequencing (NGS) of thousands of common single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) surrounding the gene of interest in the parents and an affected or unaffected offspring to conduct haplotype phasing of the high- and low-risk alleles. NGS is carried out in parallel on the maternal cell-free DNA, and fetal inheritance is predicted using sensitive dosage calculations performed at sites where the parental genotypes differ. RHDO is not currently offered to consanguineous couples owing to the shared haplotype between parents. Here we test the expansion of RHDO for AR monogenic conditions to include consanguineous couples.

Methods

The existing sequential probability ratio test analysis pipeline was modified to apply to SNPs where both parents are heterozygous for the same genotype. Quality control thresholds were developed using 33 nonconsanguineous cases. The performance of the adapted RHDO pipeline was tested on 8 consanguineous cases.

Results

The correct fetal genotype was predicted by our revised RHDO approach in all conclusive cases with known genotypes (n = 5). Haplotype block classification accuracies of 94.5% and 93.9% were obtained for the nonconsanguineous and consanguineous case cohorts, respectively.

Conclusions

Our modified RHDO pipeline correctly predicts the genotype in fetuses from consanguineous families, allowing the potential to expand access to NIPD services for these families.
Reversible complete atrioventricular block caused by aortic bicuspid valve calcification with severe aortic stenosis: a case report
Authors: Yamauchi Shuichiro , Kondo Hidekazu , Fukuda Tomoko , Miyamoto Shinji , Takahashi Naohiko
Published: April 2024

Background

The aetiology of secondary complete atrioventricular blocks includes ischaemia, cardiac sarcoidosis, electrolyte imbalance, drug use, rheumatic fever, and infections such as Lyme disease and endocarditis. Diagnosis is important since some of these causes are reversible. Although several studies have reported on aortic valve calcification causing complete atrioventricular blocks, no study has described improvement of complete atrioventricular blocks by removal of the calcification.

Case summary

A 42-year-old man with syncope had a Mobitz type II atrioventricular block, an alternating bundle branch block, and severe aortic stenosis. We identified a 10 s paroxysmal complete atrioventricular block with pre-syncope and performed pacemaker implantation. Electrocardiography-gated computed tomography confirmed that the calcification had reached the muscular septum. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) revealed significant FDG uptake with high CT value of calcification in basal interventricular septum. The calcification in the septum was removed carefully, and aortic valve replacement was performed. The atrioventricular conduction capacity improved post-surgery. During the 1-year follow-up, the patient reported dramatic improvement in exercise capacity. We also noted an improvement of <0.1% in the right ventricular pacing burden.

Discussion

Complete atrioventricular blocks occur in patients with aortic stenosis accompanied by severe calcification of the aortic valve, which are visualized comprehensively by echocardiography. Electrocardiography-gated computed tomography and FDG-PET enabled detailed evaluation of the extent of calcification and pre- and post-operative tissue inflammation. Hence, we suspected that the calcification in the septum was causing complete atrioventricular block. Moreover, clinicians should recognize that aortic valve calcification with aortic stenosis can cause complete atrioventricular blocks.
Successful surgical resection of a metastatic clear cell sarcoma in the heart: a case report
Authors: Osawa Ayano , Utsunomiya Hiroto , Takanashi Shuichiro , Takahashi Shinya , Nakano Yukiko
Published: April 2024

Background

Clear cell sarcoma (CCS) is a very rare disease and one with a very poor prognosis. Furthermore, its occurrence in the heart is very rare and past reports are scarce.

Case summary

A 33-year-old man who had undergone left arm amputation due to CCS came to the hospital because a positron emission tomography computed tomography (PET-CT) four years post-amputation showed an accumulation in the heart. The PET-CT with glucose suppression treatment showed fluorodeoxyglucose accumulation in the myocardium between the middle of the anterolateral wall and the papillary muscle of the posterior lateral wall of the left ventricle (LV). Based on the course of the disease up to now, it was considered that the accumulation was most likely metastasis of CCS. Observation of the heart after a median sternotomy revealed a white tone, well-defined lesion in the middle of the anterolateral wall of LV. The tumour on the posterolateral side of LV was not exposed on the surface, but it was palpated and was still recognizable as a firm neoplastic lesion. Because the mass was identified as a sarcoma on intraoperative rapid pathology, we decide to perform a total resection. Both lesions were excised, and pathology revealed a diagnosis of CCS.

Discussion

Clear cell sarcoma is a very rare disease that accounts for <1% of all soft tissue sarcomas, and its occurrence in the heart is even rarer. It requires a combination of many imaging modalities. To our knowledge, this is the first case of CCS in the heart treated with surgical resection.
Refugee Relocation: A Mechanism Design Approach
Authors: Hagen Martin
Published: April 2024

This paper introduces a new mechanism to distribute refugees within the European Union. The usual approach of assigning mandatory refugee quotas has been heavily opposed by several countries. Our mechanism adjusts these quotas to countries’ preferences on immigration. All countries become weakly better off, even though they do not exchange monetary transfers, which are ethically controversial. We formally model refugee relocation as a division problem with single-peaked preferences. Our ‘quota adjustment mechanism’ is the only one satisfying strategy-proofness, Pareto efficiency and a novel concept of fairness that takes account of the asymmetry across countries.
Disability and risk preferences: Experimental and survey evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Priebe Jan , Rink Ute , Stemmler Henry
Published: April 2024

We investigate whether experiencing a disability incidence in the household affects economic risk preferences in Vietnam, leveraging (i) ten years of individual-level panel data and (ii) data from a lab-in-the-field experiment. We find that individuals who experience a disability event in the household behave in a more risk-averse manner than individuals without such an experience. Examining potential underlying mechanisms, we demonstrate that a household disability shock leads to lower wealth, which in turn is related to higher levels of risk aversion. Furthermore, we provide evidence that cognitive mechanisms—fearful emotions and the updating of beliefs (becoming more pessimistic about the future)—are another, perhaps even more important channel through which disability shocks affect risk preferences.
Prognostic significance of ground-glass areas within tumours in non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Sakurai Hiroyuki , Goto Yasushi , Yoh Kiyotaka , Takamochi Kazuya , Shukuya Takehiro , Hishida Tomoyuki , Tsuboi Masahiro , Yoshida Koichi , Ohde Yasuhisa , Okumura Sakae , Taguri Masataka , Kunitoh Hideo
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVES

To validate or refute the hypothesis that non-small-cell lung cancers (NSCLC) with ground-glass areas (GGA+) within the tumour on high-resolution computed tomography are associated with a more favourable prognosis than those without GGA (GGA−).

METHODS

We analysed data from a multicentre observational cohort study in Japan including 5005 patients with completely resected pathological stage I NSCLC, who were excluded from the Japan Clinical Oncology Group (JCOG) 0707 trial on oral adjuvant treatment during the enrolment period. The patients’ medical and pathological records were assessed retrospectively by physicians and re-staged according to the 8th tumour, node, metastasis edition.

RESULTS

Of the 5005 patients, 2388 (48%) were ineligible for the JCOG0707 trial and 2617 (52%) were eligible but were not enrolled. A total of 958 patients (19.1%) died. Patients with GGA+ NSCLC and pathological invasion ≤3 cm showed significantly better overall survival than others. In patients with tumours with an invasive portion ≤4 cm, GGA+ was associated with better survival. The prognoses of patients with GGA+ T2a and GGA− T1c tumours were similar (5-year overall survival: 84.6% vs 83.1%, respectively). The survival with T2b or more tumours appeared unaffected by GGA, and GGA was not prognostic in these larger tumours.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with GGA+ NSCLC on high-resolution computed tomography and ≤4 cm invasion size may have a better prognosis than patients with solid GGA− tumours of the same T-stage. However, the presence or absence of radiological GGA has little impact on the prognosis of patients with NSCLC with greater (>4 cm) pathological invasion.
Use of new and emerging cancer drugs: what the cardiologist needs to know
Authors: Fabiani Iacopo , Chianca Michela , Aimo Alberto , Emdin Michele , Dent Susan , Fedele Antonella , Cipolla Carlo Maria , Cardinale Daniela Maria
Published: April 2024

The last decade has witnessed a paradigm shift in cancer therapy, from non-specific cytotoxic chemotherapies to agents targeting specific molecular mechanisms. Nonetheless, cardiovascular toxicity of cancer therapies remains an important concern. This is particularly relevant given the significant improvement in survival of solid and haematological cancers achieved in the last decades. Cardio-oncology is a subspecialty of medicine focusing on the identification and prevention of cancer therapy–related cardiovascular toxicity (CTR-CVT). This review will examine the new definition of CTR-CVT and guiding principles for baseline cardiovascular assessment and risk stratification before cancer therapy, providing take-home messages for non-specialized cardiologists.
Tofacitinib as a Rescue Therapy for Ulcerative Colitis in Pregnancy
Authors: Rowan Catherine , Yeaman Fiona , Ernest-Suarez Kenneth , Martin Marie-Louise , Panaccione Remo , Shukla Tushar , Grossi Matt , Vlasschaert Meghan , Novak Kerri , Seow Cynthia
Published: April 2024

Lay Summary

Tofacitinib, a potentially teratogenic nonselective Janus Kinase inhibitor was used as salvage therapy for ulcerative colitis during pregnancy with corticosteroids, maintenance ustekinumab, and rectal 5-ASA therapy. Corticosteroid-free remission ensued, resulting in term delivery without congenital malformations and avoidance of colectomy.
Current trends and biotechnology infused cleaner production of biomaterials for the construction industry: A critical review
Authors: Dhanasingh Sivalinga Vijayan , Devarajan Parthiban , Ramalingam Balachandar , Soudagar Manzoore Elahi M , Mohanavel Vinayagam , Khan T M Yunus , Shahapurkar Kiran , Cuce Erdem
Published: April 2024

Over the last few decades, there has been a significant awareness established to accept the idea of biotechnology in the field of construction. This growth in awareness has occurred tremendously. In today's world, the development of new building materials and processes that make use of biobased components, such as microorganisms and materials that are mediated by microbes, is an example of developing scientific technology. In general, building materials that are produced through the use of biotechnology, such as cement and grout, are seen as being environmentally benign, affordable, and sustainable. In contrast to traditional cementitious materials, bio-based cementitious materials has the potential to considerably contribute to a large role in reducing the negative impact that the building sector has on the surrounding environment. The purpose of this review work is to present a contemporary evaluation of biotechnology and biobased materials to assess existing developments and suggest new prospective routes for the advancement of construction biotechnology. Based on this study, it was observed that the inclusion of biotechnology can significantly increase the engineering behaviour of cement concrete and weak foundation soil. Hence, its was recommened to implement the idea of biotechnology as effectively in the building industry to obtain the major environmental and economic benefits it offers.
Pneumococci Isolated From Children in Community-Based Practice Differ From Isolates Identified by Population- and Laboratory-Based Invasive Disease Surveillance
Authors: Kaur Ravinder , Gierke Ryan , McGee Lesley , Gonzalez Eduardo , Kobayashi Miwako , Pichichero Michael ,   for the Active Bacterial Core Surveillance (ABCs) Team, Reingold Arthur , Rosales Maria , Barnes Meghan , Petit Susan , Farley Monica M , Harrison Lee H , Lynfield Ruth , Holtzman Corinne , Angeles Kathy M , Arias Sabra , Houston Jessica , Khanlian Sarah A , Poblete Mayvilynne , Landis Zachary Q , Wester Rachel , Burzlaff Kari , Anderson Bridget J , McGuire Suzanne , Rowlands Jemma V , Thomas Ann , Martin Tasha , Schaffner William , Talbot H Keipp , Markus Tiffanie M , Casey Janet , Schulz Steven , Sherman Andrew , Mathoan Jasmine , Riggs Olivia , Vargas Roberto , Apostol Mirasol , Como-Sabetti Kathryn , Triden Lori , Snippes Paula , Glennen Anita , MacInnes Kerry , Pilishvili Tamara
Published: April 2024

Background

Characterizing strains causing noninvasive and invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) may inform the impact of new pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs).

Methods

During 2011–2019, among children aged 6–36 months, pneumococcal serotype distribution and antibiotic nonsusceptibility of nasopharyngeal and middle ear fluid (MEF) isolates collected at onset of acute otitis media (AOM) in Rochester, New York, were compared with IPD isolates from the Active Bacterial Core surveillance (ABCs) system across 10 US sites.

Results

From Rochester, 400 (nasopharyngeal) and 156 (MEF) pneumococcal isolates were collected from 259 children. From ABCs, 907 sterile-site isolates were collected from 896 children. Non-PCV serotypes 35B and 21 were more frequent among the Rochester AOM cases, while serotypes 3, 19A, 22F, 33F, 10A, and 12F contained in PCVs were more frequent among ABCs IPD cases. The proportion of antibiotic-nonsusceptible pneumococcal isolates was generally more common among IPD cases. In 2015–2019, serotype 35B emerged as the most common serotype associated with multiclass antibiotic nonsusceptibility for both the Rochester AOM and ABCs IPD cases.

Conclusions

Pneumococcal isolates from children in Rochester with AOM differ in serotype distribution and antibiotic susceptibility compared to IPD cases identified through US surveillance. Non-PCV serotype 35B emerged as a common cause of AOM and IPD.
Unipolarity is not over yet
Authors: Røren Pål
Published: April 2024

Scholars, state practitioners, and pundits believe the international system is becoming multipolar. These assessments are wrong. I advance three arguments against this view. First, contemporary polarity is best measured via military capabilities. Wealth and demography should be restricted to indicate latent and not realized power. Second, using a new measure for sophisticated military capabilities, I show that the world is still unipolar. While the United States’ share of capabilities among major powers has dropped in the latter part of the century, it is still by far the most powerful state. Third, a bipolar world is possible, and a multipolar world or a non-polar world is unlikely. If China maintains its meteoric rise, which is far from certain, the next system is likely to be bipolar. The second- and third-tier powers share only a fraction of the major power military capabilities, making multipolarity and non-polarity improbable.