bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional truncations for the solution of the nonperturbative RG equations
Authors: Kaupužs J , Melnik R V N
Published: November 2022

We consider the Wetterich exact renormalization group (RG) equation. Approximate closed equations are obtained from it, applying certain truncation schemes for the effective average action. These equations are solved either purely numerically or by certain extra truncations for the potential and related quantities, called the functional truncations. Traditionally, the functional truncations consist of truncated expansions in powers of

ρ
˜

−

ρ
˜

0

, where

ρ
˜

∝

ϕ
2

, φ is the averaged order parameter, and

ρ
˜

0

corresponds to the minimum of the dimensionless potential

u
k

(

ρ
˜

)

, depending on the infrared cut-off scale k. We propose a new approach of functional truncations, using the expansion

u
k

(

ρ
˜

)
−

u
k

(
0
)
=
(
1
−
s

)

−
μ

u

1
,
k

s
+

u

2
,
k

s
2

+
⋯

, where

s
=

ρ
˜

/

(

ρ
˜

0

+

ρ
˜

)

,

ρ
˜

0

is an optimization parameter and µ is the exponent, describing the

ρ
˜

→
∞

asymptotic. The newly developed method provides accurate estimates of the critical exponents η, ν and also ω. In the case of the local potential approximation (LPA), the discrepancy with the purely numerical solution is

0.000
15

for ν and 0.0012 for ω at the s
13 order of truncation. We show that this method is advantageous for estimations beyond the LPA, especially, for the critical exponent ω. In particular, we have obtained

η
=
0.0454
(
1
)

,

ν
=
0.6292
(
2
)

, and

ω
=
0.8606
(
30
)

for the equation originally derived in 2020 J. Phys. A: Math. Theor.
53 415002 within a new truncation scheme for the effective action. The approach can also be used for the solution of other nonperturbative RG models that have a broad range of applications.
Structure transitions in arrays of point-vortices upon free space propagation
Authors: Balbuena Ortega Argelia , Vélez-Juárez Esteban , Volke-Sepúlveda Karen
Published: November 2022

We study the free space propagation of arrays of N × N point vortices with equal unitary topological charge embedded in a Gaussian beam, initially distributed into either a square lattice or a disordered array with the same mean vortex density and separation. The far-field patterns and the near-field evolution are analyzed as a function of different control parameters, such as the size of the carrier beam, the number of vortices, the mean separation distance among them P, and a geometrical parameter S

p
, defined as the ratio of the size of the array to the size of the host beam. The value of S

p
turns out to be determinant for the final spatial distribution of the optical vortices in the far-field pattern and also plays a very relevant role in the near-field evolution. While the initial array structure is basically preserved, rotated and scaled up when

S
p

>
∼
0.75

, the vortices redistribute forming a circumference around the propagation axis for

S
p

<
∼
0.5

, depleting most of the central intensity, even if the vortex density is far lower than the previously predicted limit for depletion. In the near field, we find an expression for the rotation angle of the whole structure when preserved, as a function of the propagation distance, which depends on P, but it is around eight-fold larger than the Gouy phase shift of the host. Also, we observe the formation of a high intensity ring pattern, whose radius is independent of the size of the carrier and the initial distribution of vortices, but it is only determined by the number of vortices. We verified our numerical results with experiments, finding a very good agreement between them.
Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides based composites for microwave absorption applications: a review
Authors: Feng Lan , Zhao Dan , Yu Jian , Zhao Qian , Yuan Xiaoyan , Liu Yi , Guo Shouwu
Published: November 2022

Two-dimensional structural transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDs) have the advantages of superb thermal and chemical stability, distinctive layered structures, and ultrathin thicknesses, which make them potential candidates in the microwave absorption field. The recent progress in 2D TMDs and their composite nanomaterials with enhanced microwave absorption performance are reviewed here. The synthesis methods, and the microwave absorption properties, including the maximum reflection loss value and effective absorption bandwidth of various 2D TMD nanocomposites, are described in detail. Furthermore, the current challenges and future prospects for the development of 2D TMDs are raised.
Triangular projection on 𝑆_{𝑝},0<𝑝<1 and related inequalities
Authors: Aleksandrov A. , Peller V.
Published: November 2022

In this paper we study properties of the triangular projection

P

n

\mathscr {P}_n

on the space of

n
×
n

n\times n

matrices. The projection

P

n

\mathscr {P}_n

annihilates the entries of an

n
×
n

n\times n

matrix below the main diagonal and leaves the remaining entries unchanged. We estimate the

p
p

-norms of

P

n

\mathscr {P}_n

as an operator on the Schatten–von Neumann class

S

p

{\boldsymbol S}_p

for

0
>
p
>
1

0>p>1

. The main result of the paper shows that for

p
∈
(
0
,
1
)

p\in (0,1)

, the

p
p

-norms of

P

n

\mathscr {P}_n

on

S

p

{\boldsymbol S}_p

behave as

n
→
∞

n\to \infty

as

n

1

/

p
−
1

n^{1/p-1}

. This solves a problem posed by B. S. Kashin.

Among other results of this paper we mention the result that describes the behaviour of the

S

p

{\boldsymbol S}_p

-quasinorms of the

n
×
n

n\times n

matrices whose entries above the diagonal are equal to 1 while the entries below the diagonal are equal to 0.
Sensory axons induce epithelial lipid microdomain remodeling and determine the distribution of junctions in the epidermis
Authors: Rosa Jeffrey B. , Nassman Khaled Y. , Sagasti Alvaro
Published: November 2022

Most of our epithelial tissues are innervated by neurons, but little is known about how axon contact affects epithelial cell organization. This study finds that sensory axon contact reorganizes membrane lipids, actin, and junctions in zebrafish epidermal epithelial cells, allowing them to ensheath those axons.
Impact of Glabellar Injection Technique With DaxibotulinumtoxinA for Injection on Brow Position
Authors: Bertucci Vince , Green Jeremy B , Fezza John P , Brown Jessica , Gallagher Conor J , Solish Nowell
Published: November 2022

Background

Precise injection technique is vital for avoiding suboptimal eyebrow position when treating glabellar lines with botulinum toxin type A.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of glabellar injection technique on eyebrow position in patients treated with DaxibotulinumtoxinA for Injection (DAXI).

Methods

This retrospective post hoc analysis involved 60 adults who received a single treatment with DAXI 40 U to the glabella and had standardized facial photography. Median vertical and horizontal displacement of the brows (at rest) at baseline and 2 weeks after glabellar injection were measured. Brow position outcomes were evaluated by an oculoplastic surgeon and expert anatomist. Investigators were interviewed to ascertain individual injection techniques.

Results

Precise injection location and depth, and median resting brow position following treatment varied between investigators. Positive brow outcomes were achieved with deep DAXI injections into the medial corrugator, superficial lateral corrugator injections placed between the midpupil and lateral limbus, and deep midline procerus injections. Glabellar injection technique that more precisely targeted the corrugator muscles resulted in longer glabellar line treatment duration compared to a less targeted technique. Medial corrugator injections above the medial brow; lateral corrugator injections administered deeply or more medially, toward the medial third of the brow; and procerus injections superior to the inferomedial brow tended to be associated with suboptimal outcomes that were more apparent during dynamic expression.

Conclusions

Aesthetically pleasing brow outcomes and greater duration of efficacy can be achieved with an injection pattern that precisely treats the anatomic location of the corrugator supercilii and procerus muscles, avoiding the frontalis.

Level of Evidence: 4
Integrative Assessment for Optimizing Aesthetic Outcomes When Treating Glabellar Lines With Botulinum Toxin Type A: An Appreciation of the Role of the Frontalis
Authors: Bertucci Vince , Carruthers Jean D , Sherman Deborah D , Gallagher Conor J , Brown Jessica
Published: November 2022

Despite the perception that treatment of glabellar lines with botulinum toxin A is straightforward, the reality is that the glabellar region contains a number of interrelated muscles. To avoid adverse outcomes, practitioners need to appreciate how treatment of 1 facial muscle group influences the relative dominance of others. In particular, practitioners need to understand the independent role of the frontalis in eyebrow outcomes and the potential for negative outcomes if the lower frontalis is unintentionally weakened by botulinum toxin A treatment. In addition, practitioners must recognize how inter-individual variation in the depth, shape, and muscle fiber orientation among the upper facial muscles can affect outcomes. For optimal results, treatment of the glabellar complex requires a systematic and individualized approach based on anatomical principles of opposing muscle actions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. This review provides the anatomical justification for the importance of an integrated assessment of the upper facial muscles and eyebrow position prior to glabellar treatment. In addition, a systematic and broad evaluation system is provided that can be employed by practitioners to more comprehensively assess the glabellar region in order to optimize outcomes and avoid negatively impacting resting brow position and dynamic brow movement.

Level of Evidence: 5
Joint modeling of longitudinal and competing-risk data using cumulative incidence functions for the failure submodels accounting for potential failure cause misclassification through double sampling
Authors: Thomadakis Christos , Meligkotsidou Loukia , Yiannoutsos Constantin T , Touloumi Giota
Published: November 2022

Most of the literature on joint modeling of longitudinal and competing-risk data is based on cause-specific hazards, although modeling of the cumulative incidence function (CIF) is an easier and more direct approach to evaluate the prognosis of an event. We propose a flexible class of shared parameter models to jointly model a normally distributed marker over time and multiple causes of failure using CIFs for the survival submodels, with CIFs depending on the “true” marker value over time (i.e., removing the measurement error). The generalized odds rate transformation is applied, thus a proportional subdistribution hazards model is a special case. The requirement that the all-cause CIF should be bounded by 1 is formally considered. The proposed models are extended to account for potential failure cause misclassification, where the true failure causes are available in a small random sample of individuals. We also provide a multistate representation of the whole population by defining mutually exclusive states based on the marker values and the competing risks. Based solely on the assumed joint model, we derive fully Bayesian posterior samples for state occupation and transition probabilities. The proposed approach is evaluated in a simulation study and, as an illustration, it is fitted to real data from people with HIV.
Law in the Margins: Economies of Illegality and Contested Sovereignties
Authors: Aliverti Ana
Published: November 2022

Liberal theory has long fetishized state law as a fortress against disorder, anarchy, and private violence. To prevent violence writ large, it advocated, the nation-state should be endowed with its monopoly, as the impartial and rational guardian of civilization and social peace. Yet, as critics suggest, the normative binary of law/violence and the legal purity of the state is empirically untenable and, as such, remains an ideological construct sustained and perpetuated through law and its fictions. In this paper, I revisit these debates to reflect on legal fictions in the context of migration policing. I draw on ethnographic research I conducted with immigration and police officers in the UK. Amid the growing economies of illegality that rely on migrant labour which these officers are in charge of suppressing, their everyday work reveals spaces of legal murkiness and ambiguity. The paper explores the paradoxes, dilemmas and contradictions that such legal ambiguity gives rise to and their implications for state sovereignty.
Distribution of acid-sensing ion channel subunits in human sensory neurons contrasts with that in rodents
Authors: Papalampropoulou-Tsiridou Melina , Shiers Stephanie , Wang Feng , Godin Antoine G , Price Theodore J , De Koninck Yves
Published: November 2022

Acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) play a critical role in nociception in human sensory neurons. Four genes (ASIC1, ASIC2, ASIC3, and ASIC4) encoding multiple subunits through alternative splicing have been identified in humans. Real time-PCR experiments showed strong expression of three subunits ASIC1, ASIC2, and ASIC3 in human dorsal root ganglia; however, their detailed expression pattern in different neuronal populations has not been investigated yet. In the current study, using an in situ hybridization approach (RNAscope), we examined the presence of ASIC1, ASIC2, and ASIC3 mRNA in three subpopulations of human dorsal root ganglia neurons. Our results revealed that ASIC1 and ASIC3 were present in the vast majority of dorsal root ganglia neurons, while ASIC2 was only expressed in less than half of dorsal root ganglia neurons. The distribution pattern of the three ASIC subunits was the same across the three populations of dorsal root ganglia neurons examined, including neurons expressing the REarranged during Transfection (RET) receptor tyrosine kinase, calcitonin gene-related peptide, and a subpopulation of nociceptors expressing Transient Receptor Potential Cation Channel Subfamily V Member 1. These results strongly contrast the expression pattern of Asics in mice since our previous study demonstrated differential distribution of Asics among the various subpopulation of dorsal root ganglia neurons. Given the distinct acid-sensitivity and activity dynamics among different ASIC channels, the expression differences between human and rodents should be taken under consideration when evaluating the translational potential and efficiency of drugs targeting ASICs in rodent studies.
Neurobiological substrates of the dread of future losses
Authors: Wang Pinchun , Zhang Han , Deng Kun , Chen Shuning , Im Hohjin , Zhu Wenwei , Yang Shaofeng , Wei Shiyu , Wang He , Wang Qiang
Published: November 2022

When anticipating future losses, people respond by exhibiting 1 of 2 starkly distinct behavioral decision patterns: the dread of future losses (DFL) and the preference of future losses (vs. immediate losses). Yet, how to accurately discriminate between those who exhibit dread vs. preference and uncover the potential neurobiological substrates underlying these 2 groups remain understudied. To address this, we designed a novel experimental task in which the DFL group was defined as selecting immediate-loss options >50% in the trials with approximate subjective value in immediate and delayed options (n = 16), otherwise coding as the preference of future losses (PFL). At the behavioral level, DFL exhibited higher weight for delayed losses than immediate losses via the logistic regression model. At the neural level, DFL manifested hypoactivations on subjective valuations of delayed losses, atypical brain pattern when choosing immediate-loss options, and decreased functional coupling between the valuation and choice-systems when making decisions related to immediate-loss alternatives compared with PFL. Moreover, both these brain activations subserving distinct decision processes and their interactions predicted individual decisions and behavioral preferences. Furthermore, morphological analysis also revealed decreased right precuneus volume in DFL compared with PFL, and brain activations related to valuation and choice process mediated the associations between this region volume and behavioral performances. Taken together, these findings help to clarify potential cognitive and neural mechanisms underlying the DFL and provide a clear discrimination strategy.
Efficacy and Tolerability of Concomitant Use of Bedaquiline and Delamanid for Multidrug- and Extensively Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Holmgaard Freja Breth , Guglielmetti Lorenzo , Lillebaek Troels , Andersen Åse Bengaard , Wejse Christian , Dahl Victor Naestholt
Published: November 2022

The introduction of two novel drugs, bedaquiline and delamanid, has given hope for better and shorter treatments of drug-resistant tuberculosis. A systematic review was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of concomitant bedaquiline and delamanid administration. Pooled estimates of World Health Organization–defined favorable treatment outcome and significant QTc-interval prolongation (QTc ≥500 ms or ≥60 ms increase from baseline) were calculated using a random-effects model. Thirteen studies including a total of 1031 individuals with multidrug-resistant/rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis who received bedaquiline and delamanid were included. The pooled estimate of favorable treatment outcome was 73.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 64.3–81.8%). Sputum culture conversion at 6 months ranged from 61% to 95%. Overall, the pooled proportion of QTc-prolongation was 7.8% (95% CI: 4.1–11.6%) and few cardiac events were reported (0.8%; n = 6/798). Rates of sputum culture conversion and favorable treatment outcome were high in patients treated concomitantly with bedaquiline and delamanid, and the treatment seemed tolerable with low rates of clinically significant cardiac toxicity.
Bezlotoxumab Therapy for Recurrent Clostridium difficile Infection in an Ulcerative Colitis Patient
Authors: Fein Aaron , Kern Cody , Barrett Terrance , Perry Courtney
Published: November 2022

Background

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is the most common infectious cause of nosocomial diarrhea, comprising 10%–20% of all cases. CDI is a significant complication in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). New monoclonal antibody therapies have emerged as leading treatment options for recurrent CDI (rCDI). Bezlotoxumab, a novel monoclonal antibody, has shown success in decreasing the recurrence rates of patients with rCDI. However, data extrapolating diminished rCDI in patients with concomitant IBD is limited.

Methods

A single infusion of bezlotoxumab @ 10mg/kg was given with fidaxomicin 200mg for 10 days in a patient with rCDI and ulcerative colitis

Results

The patient’s symptoms improved, inflammatory markers normalized, and she has remained asymptomatic for twelve months

Conclusions

This case supports the findings in the MODIFY I/II trials that Bezlotoxumab is a viable treatment option of rCDI in IBD patients.
Effect of inclisiran on lipids in primary prevention: the ORION-11 trial
Authors: Ray Kausik K , Kallend David , Leiter Lawrence A , Raal Frederick J , Koenig Wolfgang , Jaros Mark J , Schwartz Gregory G , Landmesser Ulf , Garcia Conde Lorena , Wright R Scott ,   ORION-11 Investigators
Published: November 2022

Aims

Patients often require combination therapies to achieve LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) targets for the primary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. This study investigates the effect of inclisiran, a small interfering ribonucleic acid targeting hepatic proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 production, in primary prevention patients with elevated LDL-C despite statins.

Methods and results

This pre-specified analysis of the placebo-controlled, randomized ORION-11 trial included 203 individuals at risk of, but without prior, cardiovascular events and LDL-C ≥2.6 mmol/L, despite maximally tolerated statins. Inclisiran 284 mg or placebo was administered on Days 1, 90, and thereafter every 6 months up to 540 days. Co-primary endpoints were percentage LDL-C change from baseline to Day 510 and time-adjusted change from baseline after Day 90 and up to Day 540. Key secondary endpoints included percentage and absolute changes in atherogenic lipoproteins. Safety was assessed over 540 days. The mean baseline (SD) LDL-C was 3.6 (1.5) mmol/L. At Day 510, the placebo-corrected LDL-C change with inclisiran was −43.7% [95% confidence interval (CI): −52.8 to −34.6] with a corresponding time-adjusted change of −41.0% (95% CI: −47.8 to −34.2); (P < 0.0001). The placebo-corrected absolute change in LDL-C at Day 510 with inclisiran was −1.5 mmol/L (95% CI: −1.8 to −1.2), with a respective time-adjusted change of −1.3 mmol/L (95% CI: −1.6 to −1.1). Inclisiran significantly lowered non-HDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B (apoB) at Day 510 vs. placebo (P < 0.0001 for both), with a greater likelihood of attaining lipoprotein and apoB goals, and was well-tolerated except for mainly mild, treatment-emergent adverse events at the injection site.

Conclusion

Inclisiran was generally well-tolerated in primary prevention patients with elevated LDL-C, who derived significant reductions in atherogenic lipoprotein levels with twice-yearly maintenance dosing.
Accuracy and precision of frequency–size distribution scaling parameters as a function of dynamic range of observations: example of the Gutenberg–Richter law b-value for earthquakes
Authors: Geffers G-M , Main I G , Naylor M
Published: November 2022

Many natural hazards exhibit inverse power-law scaling of frequency and event size, or an exponential scaling of event magnitude (m) on a logarithmic scale, for example the Gutenberg–Richter law for earthquakes, with probability density function p(m) ∼ 10−bm. We derive an analytic expression for the bias that arises in the maximum likelihood estimate of b as a function of the dynamic range r. The theory predicts the observed evolution of the modal value of mean magnitude in multiple random samples of synthetic catalogues at different r, including the bias to high b at low r and the observed trend to an asymptotic limit with no bias. The situation is more complicated for a single sample in real catalogues due to their heterogeneity, magnitude uncertainty and the true b-value being unknown. The results explain why the likelihood of large events and the associated hazard is often underestimated in small catalogues with low dynamic range, for example in some studies of volcanic and induced seismicity.
Estimates of excess mortality for the five Nordic countries during the COVID-19 pandemic 2020−2021
Authors: Kepp Kasper P , Björk Jonas , Kontis Vasilis , Parks Robbie M , Bæk Kristoffer T , Emilsson Louise , Lallukka Tea
Published: November 2022

Background

Excess mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic is of major scientific and political interest.

Methods

We critically reviewed different estimates of all-cause excess mortality for the five Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden), which have been much studied during the COVID-19 pandemic, using the latest register data to discuss uncertainties and implications.

Results

We show using back-calculation of expected deaths from Nordic all-cause deaths that the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation model is a clear outlier in the compared estimates and likely substantially overestimates excess mortality of Finland and Denmark, and probably Sweden. Our review suggests a range of total Nordic excess deaths of perhaps 15 000–20 000, but results are sensitive to assumptions in the models as shown.

Conclusions

We document substantial heterogeneity and uncertainty in estimates of excess mortality. All estimates should be taken with caution in their interpretation as they miss detailed account of demographics, such as changes in the age group populations over the study period.
Ketanserin Reverses the Acute Response to LSD in a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study in Healthy Participants
Authors: Becker Anna M , Klaiber Aaron , Holze Friederike , Istampoulouoglou Ioanna , Duthaler Urs , Varghese Nimmy , Eckert Anne , Liechti Matthias E
Published: November 2022

Background

Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is currently being investigated in psychedelic-assisted therapy. LSD has a long duration of acute action of 8–11 hours. It produces its acute psychedelic effects via stimulation of the serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine-2A (HT2A) receptor. Administration of the 5-HT2A antagonist ketanserin before LSD almost fully blocks the acute subjective response to LSD. However, unclear is whether ketanserin can also reverse the effects of LSD when administered after LSD.

Methods

We used a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover design in 24 healthy participants who underwent two 14-hour sessions and received ketanserin (40 mg p.o.) or placebo 1 hour after LSD (100 µg p.o.). Outcome measures included subjective effects, autonomic effects, acute adverse effects, plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels, and pharmacokinetics up to 12 hours.

Results

Ketanserin reversed the acute response to LSD, thereby significantly reducing the duration of subjective effects from 8.5 hours with placebo to 3.5 hours. Ketanserin also reversed LSD-induced alterations of mind, including visual and acoustic alterations and ego dissolution. Ketanserin reduced adverse cardiovascular effects and mydriasis that were associated with LSD but had no effects on elevations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels. Ketanserin did not alter the pharmacokinetics of LSD.

Conclusions

These findings are consistent with an interaction between ketanserin and LSD and the view that LSD produces its psychedelic effects only when occupying 5-HT2A receptors. Ketanserin can effectively be used as a planned or rescue option to shorten and attenuate the LSD experience in humans in research and LSD-assisted therapy.

Trial registry

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04558294)
Intranasal M2SR (M2-Deficient Single Replication) H3N2 Influenza Vaccine Provides Enhanced Mucosal and Serum Antibodies in Adults
Authors: Eiden Joseph , Fierro Carlos , Schwartz Howard , Adams Mark , Ellis Kimberly J , Aitchison Roger , Herber Renee , Hatta Yasuko , Marshall David , Moser Michael J , Belshe Robert , Greenberg Harry , Coelingh Kathleen , Kawaoka Yoshihiro , Neumann Gabriele , Bilsel Pamuk
Published: November 2022

Background

We previously demonstrated that an intranasal dose of 108 50% tissue culture infectious dose (TCID50) M2-deficient single replication (M2SR) influenza vaccine protected against highly drifted H3N2 influenza challenge in a subset of subjects who demonstrated ≥2-fold increase in microneutralization (MN) antibodies to Belgium2015 (the challenge strain) after vaccination. Here, we describe a phase 1b, observer-blinded, dose-escalation study demonstrating an increased proportion of responders with this signal of immune protection.

Methods

Serosusceptible subjects aged 18–49 years were randomized to receive 2 doses (108–109 TCID50) of M2SR or placebo administered 28 days apart. Clinical specimens were collected before and after each dose. The primary objective was to demonstrate safety of M2SR vaccines.

Results

The vaccine was well tolerated at all dose levels. Against Belgium2015, ≥ 2-fold increases in MN antibodies were noted among 40% (95% confidence interval [CI], 24.9%–56.7%) of subjects following a single 108 TCID50 M2SR dose and among 80.6% (95% CI, 61.4%–92.3%) after 109 dose (P < .001). A single 109 TCID50 dose of M2SR generated ≥4-fold hemagglutination inhibition antibody seroconversion against the vaccine strain in 71% (95% CI, 52.0%–85.8%) of recipients. Mucosal and cellular immune responses were also induced.

Conclusions

These results indicate that M2SR may provide substantial protection against infection with highly drifted strains of H3N2 influenza.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT03999554.
High concordance in plasma and CSF HIV-1 drug resistance mutations despite high cases of CSF viral escape in individuals with HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis in Botswana
Authors: Kelentse Nametso , Moyo Sikhulile , Choga Wonderful T , Lechiile Kwana , Leeme Tshepo B , Lawrence David S , Kasvosve Ishmael , Musonda Rosemary , Mosepele Mosepele , Harrison Thomas S , Jarvis Joseph N , Gaseitsiwe Simani
Published: November 2022

Objectives

We compared the patterns of HIV-1 drug resistance mutations between the CSF and plasma of individuals with HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study of archived CSF and plasma samples collected from ART-exposed participants recruited in the Phase 3 AmBisome Therapy Induction Optimisation randomized controlled trial (ISRCTN72509687) conducted in Botswana between 2018 and 2021. HIV-1 RT and protease genes were genotyped using next-generation sequencing and HIV-1 drug resistance mutations were compared between the CSF and plasma compartments stratified by thresholds of ≥20% and <20%.

Results

Overall, 66.7% (16/24) of participants had at least one HIV-1 drug resistance mutation in the CSF and/or plasma. A total of 15/22 (68.2%) participants had HIV-1 drug resistance mutations at ≥20% threshold in the plasma and of those, 11 (73.3%) had been on ART longer than 6 months. HIV-1 drug resistance mutations were highly concordant between the CSF and plasma at ≥20% threshold despite a substantial number of individuals experiencing CSF viral escape and with only 54.5% with CSF WBC count ≥20 cells/mm3. Minority HIV-1 drug resistance mutations were detected in 20.8% (5/24) of participants. There were no mutations in the CSF that were not detected in the plasma.

Conclusions

There was high concordance in HIV-1 drug resistance mutations in the CSF and plasma, suggesting intercompartmental mixing and possibly a lack of compartmentalization. Some individuals harboured minority HIV-1 drug resistance mutations, demonstrating the need to employ more sensitive genotyping methods such as next-generation sequencing for the detection of low-abundance mutations.
Pivmecillinam, the paradigm of an antibiotic with low resistance rates in Escherichia coli urine isolates despite high consumption
Authors: Frimodt-Møller Niels , Simonsen Gunnar Skov , Larsen Anders Rhod , Kahlmeter Gunnar
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Pivmecillinam, the oral version of mecillinam, represents one of the major recommended and used antibiotics for empiric and targeted treatment of urinary tract infections in primary care in Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Mecillinam resistant mutants in Escherichia coli develop easily in vitro, but their fitness cost has been shown to be high.

Methods

We revisited the resistance and consumption data from the monitoring programmes in the three countries and compared pivmecillinam with ciprofloxacin from 2010 to 2020.

Results

Mecillinam resistance rates in Escherichia coli remained around 6% in Denmark and Norway relative to a constant consumption in Norway of 1.6–1.8 DID (defined daily doses per 1000 inhabitants per day), and even increasing in Denmark from 1.6 to 2.3 DID. In Sweden resistance was significantly lower at 4% related to the lower consumption of 0.5 DID. For ciprofloxacin, resistance rates fluctuated around 6%–12%, highest in Sweden with the highest consumption (0.8–0.6 DID) and lowest in Denmark (0.55–0.35 DID) and Norway (0.7–0.3 DID), although consumption declined significantly in all three countries.

Conclusions

Pivmecillinam is an example of an antibiotic, which easily develops resistance in vitro, but apparently can be used broadly in primary care without increase in resistance rates.
Alfalfa Weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) Resistance to Lambda-cyhalothrin in the Western United States
Authors: Rodbell E A , Hendrick M L , Grettenberger I M , Wanner K W
Published: November 2022

Forage alfalfa (Medicago sativa L. [Fabales: Fabaceae]) is a key agricultural commodity of the western region of the United States. The key insect pest of alfalfa, Hypera postica Gyllenhal (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), has developed resistance to the most common class of insecticide used to manage its damage. Alfalfa weevil samples from 71 commercial alfalfa fields located in Arizona, California, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming were assayed for susceptibility to lambda-cyhalothrin during 2020–2022 using a laboratory concentration-response assay. Seventeen field sites representing all six states were highly resistant to lambda-cyhalothrin (resistance ratios > 79.6) and bioassay mortality often did not exceed 50% even at the highest concentration tested (3.30 µg/cm2 in 2020 and 10.00 µg/cm2 in 2021–2022). Field sites assayed with more than one pyrethroid active ingredient indicated likely cross-resistance between lambda-cyhalothrin and zeta-cypermethrin (type II pyrethroids) and variable and/or limited potential cross-resistance to permethrin (type I pyrethroid). Thirty-two field sites representing five states were susceptible to lambda-cyhalothrin (resistance ratios ranging from 1 to 20). While resistance is widespread, integrated resistance management strategies including rotating mode of action groups, applying chemical control tactics only when economic thresholds have been met, and utilizing cultural control tactics can be employed to slow the further development of resistance.
Host Range and Phenology of Sugarcane Aphid (Hemiptera: Aphididae) and Natural Enemy Community in Sorghum in Haiti
Authors: Exilien Romain , Brodeur Jacques , Fournier Valérie , Martini Xavier
Published: November 2022

To determine the factors leading to outbreaks of the sugarcane aphid, Melanaphis sacchari, (Zehntner) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) in sorghum in Haiti, a survey was carried out on farms during two cropping seasons, spring and fall of 2018. A total of 45 plots in three Haitian regions were monitored from the five-leaf stage to grain ripening. Infestation with M. sacchari was significantly higher in spring than in fall, except in one location. Melanaphis sacchari populations varied significantly according to phenological stages of sorghum, with significantly higher abundance during the heading and flowering stages than other stages. In and around sorghum fields, the sugarcane aphid was observed on plants from three families: Poaceae, Malvaceae, and Cucurbitaceae. Aphid natural enemies found in sorghum fields consisted of eight species of ladybeetles (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), one hoverfly (Diptera: Syrphidae), one lacewing (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae), and one predatory midge (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae). In addition to these predators, two parasitoid species, Adialytus sp. (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) and Pachyneuron aphidis (Bouché) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), emerged from sugarcane aphid mummies. Predator and parasitoid densities were highly affected by growing season, with most of the biological control happening in fall. This study provides insights on sugarcane aphid management in Haiti and the Caribbean Islands.
Population structure and genetic variation of fragmented mountain birch forests in Iceland
Authors: Pálsson Snæbjörn , Wasowicz Pawel , Heiðmarsson Starri , Magnússon Kristinn Pétur
Published: November 2022

Betula pubescens Ehrh. (mountain birch) is the only forest-forming tree in Iceland. Since human settlement (874 AD), the continuous 25,000 to 30,000 km2 forest has shrunk to 1.200 km2 of fragmented patches, making it a good object to study population genetic consequences of habitat fragmentation and disturbance. Further, genetic studies have also shown that hybridization between the tetraploid (2n = 56) B. pubescens and the diploid (2n = 28) Betula nana L. (dwarf birch) occurs among Iceland’s natural populations. This study assessed the genetic variation within and among 11 birch forests remaining across Iceland. Genotype-by-sequencing methodology provided a total of 24,585 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP´s), with a minor allele frequency >5% for genetic analyses. The analysis showed similar diversity within forests, suggesting that fragmentation and hybridization have had a limited effect on the genetic variation within sites. A clear genetic divergence is found among forests from the different regions of Iceland that may reflect historical isolation; the differentiation between forests increased with geographic distances reflecting isolation by distance. Information on the distribution of genetic variation of birch in Iceland is essential for its conservation and to establish genotype–phenotype associations to predict responses to new environmental conditions imposed by climate change and novel biotic/abiotic stressors.
Life History Metrics for Culex tarsalis (Diptera: Culicidae) and Culicoides sonorensis (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) Are Not Impacted by Artificial Feeding on Defibrinated Versus EDTA-treated Blood
Authors: Swanson Dustin A , McGregor Bethany L
Published: November 2022

Artificial blood feeding is a common practice for the study and maintenance of blood-feeding arthropod colonies. Commercially purchased blood is often treated to prevent clot-formation using either mechanical or chemical means. For many hematophagous insects, the effect that different anticoagulation methods may have on life history metrics is unclear. In the current study, Culex tarsalis Coquillett and Culicoides sonorensis Wirth & Jones were fed blood treated with either mechanical (defibrination) or chemical (K2 EDTA) anticoagulation methods. Several blood feeding and life history metrics were evaluated between treatment groups including proportion blood feeding, fecundity, fertility, and mortality. No significant differences were found for any of the measured life history metrics for either species. For experiments measuring aspects of these blood feeding and life history traits, blood treated using either defibrination or K2 EDTA anticoagulants should not impact experimental outcomes.
Phytochemical study and immunomodulatory activity of Fraxinus excelsior L.
Authors: Qasaymeh Rana Mohammad , Rotondo Dino , Seidel Veronique
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Fraxinus excelsior L. (FE) is traditionally used to treat inflammatory and pain disorders. This study aimed to identify the constituents of FE leaves and evaluate the effects of its n-hexane (FEH), ethyl acetate (FEE), methanol (FEM) extracts and constituents on the viability of THP-1 cells and their ability to release pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Methods

THP-1 cell viability was assessed using an MTT assay. The immunomodulatory activity was evaluated by measuring tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 12 (IL-12) released by lipopolysaccharide-stimulated THP-1 cells using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.

Key findings

Triterpenes, tyrosol esters, alkanes, phytyl and steryl esters, pinocembrin and bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate were isolated from FE. The tyrosol esters showed no significant effect on THP-1 cell viability. FEH, FEE, FEM, and pinocembrin, ursolic acid, oleanolic acid had IC50 values of 56.9, 39.9, 124.7 µg/ml and 178.6, 61.5 and 199.8 µM, respectively. FE extracts, ursolic acid, oleanolic acid and pinocembrin significantly reduced TNF-α/IL-12 levels. The tyrosol esters did not significantly affect TNF-α/IL-12 production.

Conclusions

FE was able to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine production indicating a mechanistic focus in its use for inflammation and pain. Further investigations are warranted to unravel the mode of action of the tested constituents and discover other potentially active compounds in FE extracts.
Escherichia coli expressing chloroplast chaperones as a proxy to test heterologous Rubisco production in leaves
Authors: Buck Sally , Rhodes Tim , Gionfriddo Matteo , Skinner Tanya , Yuan Ding , Birch Rosemary , Kapralov Maxim V , Whitney Spencer M
Published: November 2022

Rubisco is a fundamental enzyme in photosynthesis and therefore for life. Efforts to improve plant Rubisco performance have been hindered by the enzymes’ complex chloroplast biogenesis requirements. New Synbio approaches, however, now allow the production of some plant Rubisco isoforms in Escherichia coli. While this enhances opportunities for catalytic improvement, there remain limitations in the utility of the expression system. Here we generate, optimize, and test a robust Golden Gate cloning E. coli expression system incorporating the protein folding machinery of tobacco chloroplasts. By comparing the expression of different plant Rubiscos in both E. coli and plastome-transformed tobacco, we show that the E. coli expression system can accurately predict high level Rubisco production in chloroplasts but poorly forecasts the biogenesis potential of isoforms with impaired production in planta. We reveal that heterologous Rubisco production in E. coli and tobacco plastids poorly correlates with Rubisco large subunit phylogeny. Our findings highlight the need to fully understand the factors governing Rubisco biogenesis if we are to deliver an efficient, low-cost screening tool that can accurately emulate chloroplast expression.
The miniJPAS survey: stellar atmospheric parameters from 56 optical filters
Authors: Yuan H-B , Yang L , Cruz P , Jiménez-Esteban F , Daflon S , Placco V M , Akras S , Alfaro E J , Galarza C Andrés , Gonçalves D R , Duan F-Q , Liu J-F , Laur J , Solano E , Borges Fernandes M , Cenarro A J , Marín-Franch A , Varela J , Ederoclite A , López-Sanjuan Carlos , Abramo R , Alcaniz J , Benítez N , Bonoli S , Cristóbal-Hornillos D , Dupke R A , Hernán-Caballero Antonio , Mendes de Oliveira C , Moles M , Sodré L , Vázquez Ramió Héctor , Taylor K
Published: November 2022

With a unique set of 54 overlapping narrow-band and two broader filters covering the entire optical range, the incoming Javalambre-Physics of the Accelerating Universe Astrophysical Survey (J-PAS) will provide a great opportunity for stellar physics and near-field cosmology. In this work, we use the miniJPAS data in 56 J-PAS filters and 4 complementary SDSS-like filters to explore and prove the potential of the J-PAS filter system in characterizing stars and deriving their atmospheric parameters. We obtain estimates for the effective temperature with a good precision (<150 K) from spectral energy distribution fitting. We have constructed the metallicity-dependent stellar loci in 59 colours for the miniJPAS FGK dwarf stars, after correcting certain systematic errors in flat-fielding. The very blue colours, including uJAVA − r, J0378 − r, J0390 − r, uJPAS − r, show the strongest metallicity dependence, around 0.25 mag dex−1. The sensitivities decrease to about 0.1 mag dex−1 for the J0400 − r, J0410 − r, and J0420 − r colours. The locus fitting residuals show peaks at the J0390, J0430, J0510, and J0520 filters, suggesting that individual elemental abundances such as [Ca/Fe], [C/Fe], and [Mg/Fe] can also be determined from the J-PAS photometry. Via stellar loci, we have achieved a typical metallicity precision of 0.1 dex. The miniJPAS filters also demonstrate strong potential in discriminating dwarfs and giants, particularly the J0520 and J0510 filters. Our results demonstrate the power of the J-PAS filter system in stellar parameter determinations and the huge potential of the coming J-PAS survey in stellar and Galactic studies.
Stark broadening of Fe xxv spectral lines
Authors: Dimitrijević Milan S , Christova Magdalena D , Yubero Cristina , Sahal-Bréchot Sylvie
Published: November 2022

Stark broadening parameters, full widths at half-maximum of intensity and shifts for 18 spectral lines of Fe xxv, broadened by collisions with electrons, protons, and Fe xxvii ions, have been calculated using the impact semiclassical perturbation formalism for a grid of electron densities and temperatures of interest for neutron star atmospheres and their environment.
The Type 1 and Type 2 AGN dichotomy according to their ZTF optical variability
Authors: López-Navas E , Arévalo P , Bernal S , Graham Matthew J , Hernández-García L , Lira P , Sánchez-Sáez P
Published: November 2022

The scarce optical variability studies in spectrally classified Type 2 active galactic nuclei (AGNs) have led to the discovery of anomalous objects that are incompatible with the simplest unified models (UMs). This paper focuses on the exploration of different variability features that allow to distinguish between obscured, Type 2 AGNs and the variable, unobscured Type 1s. We analyse systematically the Zwicky Transient Facility, 2.5-yr-long light curves of ∼15 000 AGNs from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data Release 16, which are generally considered Type 2s due to the absence of strong broad emission lines (BELs). Consistent with the expectations from the UM, the variability features are distributed differently for distinct populations, with spectrally classified weak Type 1s showing one order of magnitude larger variances than the Type 2s. We find that the parameters given by the damped random walk model lead to broader H α equivalent width for objects with τg > 16 d and long-term structure function SF∞, g > 0.07 mag. By limiting the variability features, we find that ∼11 per cent of Type 2 sources show evidence for optical variations. A detailed spectral analysis of the most variable sources (∼1 per cent of the Type 2 sample) leads to the discovery of misclassified Type 1s with weak BELs and changing-state candidates. This work presents one of the largest systematic investigations of Type 2 AGN optical variability to date, in preparation for future large photometric surveys.
Perceptions of Death Among Patients with Advanced Cancer Receiving Early Palliative Care and Their Caregivers: Results from a Mixed-Method Analysis
Authors: Bigi Sarah , Ganfi Vittorio , Borelli Eleonora , Potenza Leonardo , Artioli Fabrizio , Eliardo Sonia , Mucciarini Claudia , Cottafavi Luca , Ferrari Umberto , Lombardo Laura , Cagossi Katia , Pietramaggiori Alessandra , Fantuzzi Valeria , Bernardini Ilaria , Cruciani Massimiliano , Cacciari Cristina , Odejide Oreofe , Adolfo Porro Carlo , Zimmermann Camilla , Efficace Fabio , Bruera Eduardo , Luppi Mario , Bandieri Elena
Published: November 2022

Background

Oncologists are often concerned that talking about death with patients may hinder their relationship. However, the views of death held by patients have not been thoroughly investigated. This study aimed to describe the perception of death among patients with advanced cancer receiving early palliative care (EPC) and their caregivers.

Material and Methods

Qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed on 2 databases: (a) transcripts of open-ended questionnaires administered to 130 cancer patients receiving EPC with a mean age of 68.4 years and to 115 primary caregivers of patients on EPC with a mean age of 56.8; (b) texts collected from an Italian forum, containing instances of web-mediated interactions between patients and their caregivers.

Results

Quantitative analysis shows that: (a) patients and caregivers are not afraid of speaking about death; (b) patients and caregivers on EPC use the word “death” significantly more than patients on standard oncology care (SOC) and their caregivers (P < .0001). For both participants on EPC and SOC, the adjectives and verbs associated with the word “death” have positive connotations; however, these associations are significantly more frequent for participants on EPC (verbs, Ps < .0001; adjectives, Ps < .003). Qualitative analysis reveals that these positive connotations refer to an actual, positive experience of the end of life in the EPC group and a wish or a negated event in the SOC group.

Conclusions

EPC interventions, along with proper physician-patient communication, may be associated with an increased acceptance of death in patients with advanced cancer and their caregivers.