bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A decoupling method to compute near field and far field exposure concentrations
Authors: Nicas Mark
Published: November 2023

In the near field/far field (NF/FF) dispersion construct, the analytical solutions for the NF and FF concentration equations, respectively denoted CNF(t) and CFF(t) in mg/m3, are coupled in their mathematical derivation. Depending on the form of the contaminant emission rate function G(t) (mg/min), deriving CNF(t) and CFF(t) can range from being relatively easy to impossible. A method is presented to more easily approximate these concentration functions. The method decouples the NF and FF equations by treating the NF as an isolated well-mixed space with volume VNF (m3) and supply/exhaust airflow rate β(m3) and treating the FF as an isolated well mixed-space with volume V (m3) and supply/exhaust airflow rate Q (m3). Assuming that each space contains a source with the same contaminant emission rate function G(t), a contaminant concentration function is derived for the FF zone, denoted CWMR1(t), and an independent contaminant concentration function is derived for the NF zone, denoted CWMR2(t). Deriving a concentration function for a single zone is far easier than deriving coupled concentration functions. It is shown that the sum CWMR1(t) + CWMR2(t) provides an excellent approximation of CNF(t) and that CWMR1(t) provides an excellent approximation of CFF(t). A discrete-time numerical solution for the CNF(t) and CFF(t) system based on a Markov matrix is also presented.
Building Trust and Honouring Agreements in the Supply of Protected Wildlife Products
Authors: Wong Rebecca W Y
Published: November 2023

This paper draws on interview data and published court judgment reports to reveal first-hand accounts of illegal transactions involving protected wildlife and how criminals collaborate with one another. This research finds that wildlife supply is controlled by a small number of key suppliers. Further, trust is embedded in the criminals’ relationship based on kinship and friendship ties, while individuals’ ethnicity and reputation also facilitate collaboration. These arrangements shape the criminal networks that exploit protected wildlife. This paper suggests further research into online trading of protected wildlife products, the presence of women in the illegal wildlife trade and the impact of COVID-19 on the criminal networks supplying wildlife.
High expression of interleukin-17A in cutaneous sarcoidosis
Authors: Shimon Stephanie V , Desai Karishma , Miteva Mariya , Nadji Mehrdad , Romanelli Paolo
Published: November 2023

Increasing evidence of Th17 pathways is implicated in sarcoidosis granulomatous inflammation and maintenance. Our study evaluated the presence of IL-17A, a downstream proinflammatory cytokine, in cutaneous sarcoidosis biopsies. We found that all 26 biopsy samples had increased expression of IL-17A, predominantly located in macrophages within granulomas, in the cytoplasm of multinucleated histiocytes surrounding the granulomas and within lymphocytic infiltrates surrounding the inflammation.
LncRNA CCAT1 participates in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma progression by forming a positive feedback loop with c-Myc
Authors: Cheng Chundong , Liu Zonglin , Liu Danxi , Chen Hua , Wang Yongwei , Sun Bei
Published: November 2023

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play fundamental roles in cancer development; however, the underlying mechanisms for a large proportion of lncRNAs in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) have not been elucidated. The expression of colon cancer-associated transcript-1 (CCAT1) in PDAC specimens and cell lines was measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The function of CCAT1 was examined in vitro and in vivo. The interactions among CCAT1, miR-24-3p and c-Myc were determined by bioinformatics analysis, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), dual-luciferase reporter assay, and rescue experiments. CCAT1 was significantly increased in PDAC, positively correlated with PDAC progression and predicted a worse prognosis. Furthermore, CCAT1 enhanced Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production to facilitate PDAC cell proliferation, colony formation and motility in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. CCAT1 may serve as an miR-24-3p sponge, thereby counteracting its repression by c-Myc expression. Reciprocally, c-Myc may act as a transcription factor to alter CCAT1 expression by directly targeting its promoter region, thus forming a positive feedback loop with CCAT1. Collectively, these results demonstrate that a positive feedback loop of CCAT1/miR-24-3p/c-Myc is involved in PDAC development, which may serve as a biomarker and therapeutic target for PDAC.
Transcriptome profiling of regulatory T cells from children with transient hypogammaglobulinemia of infancy
Authors: Rutkowska-Zapała Magdalena , Grabowska Agnieszka , Lenart Marzena , Kluczewska Anna , Szaflarska Anna , Kobylarz Krzysztof , Pituch-Noworolska Anna , Siedlar Maciej
Published: November 2023

Transient hypogammaglobulinemia of infancy (THI) is one of the most common forms of hypogammaglobulinemia in the early childhood. THI is usually associated with chronic, recurrent bacterial and viral infections, life-threatening in some cases, yet its pathogenesis is still largely unknown. As our previous findings indicated the possible role of Treg cells in the pathomechanism of THI, the aim of the current study was to investigate gene expression profile of Treg cells isolated from THI patients. The transcriptome-wide gene profiling was performed using microarray technology on THI patients in two time-points: during (THI-1), and in resolution phase (THI-2) of hypogammaglobulinemia. As a result, a total of 1086 genes were differentially expressed in THI-1 patients, when compared to THI-2 as well as control group. Among them, 931 were up- and 155 downregulated, and part of them encodes genes important for Treg lymphocyte biology and function, i.e. transcription factors/cofactors that regulate FOXP3 expression. Thus, we postulate that Treg cells isolated from THI patients during hypogammaglobulinemia display enhanced suppressor transcriptome signature. Treg expression profile of THI children after normalization of Ig levels largely resembles the results obtained in healthy control group, suggesting THI Treg transcriptome seems to return to that observed in healthy children. Taken together, we suggest that THI pathomechanism is associated not only with transiently elevated Treg cell numbers, but also with their enhanced regulatory/inhibitory functions. These findings expand our knowledge of human Treg cells and may be useful for the future diagnosis or management of THI.
Topological properties analysis and identification of mild cognitive impairment based on individual morphological brain network connectome
Authors: Xu Xiaowen , Chen Peiying , Li Weikai , Xiang Yongsheng , Xie Zhongfeng , Yu Qiang , Tang Ying , Wang Peijun
Published: November 2023

Mild cognitive impairment is considered the prodromal stage of Alzheimer’s disease. Accurate diagnosis and the exploration of the pathological mechanism of mild cognitive impairment are extremely valuable for targeted Alzheimer’s disease prevention and early intervention. In all, 100 mild cognitive impairment patients and 86 normal controls were recruited in this study. We innovatively constructed the individual morphological brain networks and derived multiple brain connectome features based on 3D-T1 structural magnetic resonance imaging with the Jensen–Shannon divergence similarity estimation method. Our results showed that the most distinguishing morphological brain connectome features in mild cognitive impairment patients were consensus connections and nodal graph metrics, mainly located in the frontal, occipital, limbic lobes, and subcortical gray matter nuclei, corresponding to the default mode network. Topological properties analysis revealed that mild cognitive impairment patients exhibited compensatory changes in the frontal lobe, while abnormal cortical–subcortical circuits associated with cognition were present. Moreover, the combination of multidimensional brain connectome features using multiple kernel-support vector machine achieved the best classification performance in distinguishing mild cognitive impairment patients and normal controls, with an accuracy of 84.21%. Therefore, our findings are of significant importance for developing potential brain imaging biomarkers for early detection of Alzheimer’s disease and understanding the neuroimaging mechanisms of the disease.
Neural mechanisms of sequential dependence in time perception: the impact of prior task and memory processing
Authors: Cheng Si , Chen Siyi , Glasauer Stefan , Keeser Daniel , Shi Zhuanghua
Published: November 2023

Our perception and decision-making are susceptible to prior context. Such sequential dependence has been extensively studied in the visual domain, but less is known about its impact on time perception. Moreover, there are ongoing debates about whether these sequential biases occur at the perceptual stage or during subsequent post-perceptual processing. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, we investigated neural mechanisms underlying temporal sequential dependence and the role of action in time judgments across trials. Participants performed a timing task where they had to remember the duration of green coherent motion and were cued to either actively reproduce its duration or simply view it passively. We found that sequential biases in time perception were only evident when the preceding task involved active duration reproduction. Merely encoding a prior duration without reproduction failed to induce such biases. Neurally, we observed activation in networks associated with timing, such as striato-thalamo-cortical circuits, and performance monitoring networks, particularly when a “Response” trial was anticipated. Importantly, the hippocampus showed sensitivity to these sequential biases, and its activation negatively correlated with the individual’s sequential bias following active reproduction trials. These findings highlight the significant role of memory networks in shaping time-related sequential biases at the post-perceptual stages.
Transvenous lead extraction: Experience of the Tandem approach
Authors: Akhtar Zaki , Kontogiannis Christos , Elbatran Ahmed I , Leung Lisa W M , Starck Christoph T , Zuberi Zia , Sohal Manav , Gallagher Mark M
Published: November 2023

Aims

Transvenous lead extraction (TLE) is important in the management of cardiac implantable electronic devices but carries risk. It is most commonly completed from the superior access, often with ‘bail-out’ support via the femoral approach. Superior and inferior access may be used in tandem, which has been proposed as an advance in safety and efficacy. The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the Tandem approach.

Method

The ‘Tandem’ procedure entailed grasping of the targeted lead in the right atrium to provide countertraction as a rotational dissecting sheath was advanced over the lead from the subclavian access. Consecutive ‘Tandem’ procedures performed by a single operator between December 2020 and March 2023 in a single large-volume TLE centre were included and compared with the conventional superior approach (control) using 1:1 propensity score matching; patients were statistically matched for demographics.

Results

The Tandem in comparison with the conventional approach extracted leads of much greater dwell time (148.9 ± 79 vs. 108.6 ± 77 months, P < 0.01) in a shorter procedure duration (96 ± 36 vs. 127 ± 67 min, P < 0.01) but requiring more fluoroscopy (16.4 ± 10.9 vs. 10.8 ± 14.9 min, P < 0.01). The Tandem and control groups had similar clinical (100% vs. 94.7%, P = 0.07) and complete (94.8% vs. 92.8%, P = 0.42) success, with comparable minor (4% vs. 6.7%, P = 0.72) and major (0% vs. 4%, P = 0.25) complications; procedural (0% vs. 1.3%, P = 1) and 30-day (1.3% vs. 4%, P = 0.62) mortality were also similar.

Conclusion

The Tandem procedure is as safe and effective as the conventional TLE. It can be applied to leads of a long dwell time with a potentially shorter procedure duration.
Assessment of prescribing in under-five paediatric outpatients in Nigeria: an application of the POPI (Pediatrics: Omission of Prescription and Inappropriate Prescription) tool
Authors: Ahwinahwi Ufuoma Shalom , Odili Valentine U , Nwachukwu Destiny Obiajulu
Published: November 2023

Objectives

This study evaluated prescribing in children under the age of five attending paediatric outpatient clinics at three Central hospitals in Delta State, Nigeria and determined the conditions mostly associated with inappropriate prescriptions and omissions.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of prescriptions made to children from 0 to 59 months who attended the clinics. Prescriptions were evaluated using the POPI tool, occurrence of potentially inappropriate prescriptions and prescribing omissions were reported as percentages and inappropriate prescription types and prescription omissions were also reported as frequencies. Relationship between inappropriate prescriptions, omissions of prescriptions and age group and gender were determined, P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Key findings

A total of 1327 prescriptions from the three centres were analyzed. There was a preponderance of infants (>1 month–12 months of age) in the study (43.0%) and a somewhat even gender distribution. Exactly 29.8% of all the prescriptions studied had at least one occurrence of inappropriate prescription. The use of H1 antagonists with sedative or atropine-like effects accounted for the majority of inappropriate prescriptions (49.5%), while the prescription of drinkable amoxicillin or other antibiotics in doses other than mg was the most frequent omission of prescription (97.2%). There was a significant relationship between the occurrence of inappropriate prescription and age group (P > 0.001).

Conclusions

Inappropriate prescriptions and omissions of prescriptions were high and effectively detected by the POPI tool.
Validation ofPenaeus simplex(Decapoda: Dendrobranchiata: Penaeidae), a commercially important prawn from Indonesia
Authors: Chan Tin-Yam , Muchlisin Zainal Abidin , Hurzaid Amirah
Published: November 2023

The name Penaeus simplex, given to a new species of prawn species by Tin-Yam Chan, Zainal Abidin Muchlisin, and Amirah Hurzaid (2021) in an article published in Journal of Crustacean Biology (https://doi.org/10.1093/jcbiol/ruaa096) is deemed to be unavailable according to the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (Code) because that article is an electronic-only publication and did not include a ZooBank registration number (LSID). The present note serves to validate the name Penaeus simplex by fulfilling the requirements of the Code.
Interspecific variation in lower temperature thresholds of an assemblage of wintering bats
Authors: Andersen Brett R , Stevens Richard D , Grimshaw Jenna R , McGuire Liam P
Published: November 2023

Winter presents environmental and energetic challenges for temperate insectivorous bats as colder temperatures increase metabolic rates while simultaneously reducing resource availability. While bats in northern regions typically hibernate or migrate to circumvent these adverse conditions, there is growing evidence of winter bat activity as weather permits. Bats at lower latitudes may experience shorter, milder winters, increasing opportunities for activity. To better understand the relationship between ambient temperature and winter bat activity, we deployed acoustic detectors in central Louisiana and eastern Texas and examined data at 3 levels of biological organization: overall bat activity, species richness, and species-specific activity. Across 1,576 detector-nights, we recorded 37,435 bat passes. Bats responded positively to warmer temperatures but the temperature threshold for winter activity varied among species, ranging from 7.2 to 15.6 °C. Consequently, observed species richness increased at warmer ambient temperatures. With activity linked to environmental conditions in a species-specific manner, different subsets of the winter bat assemblage may be active from night to night. Additionally, our study adds to a rather limited body of literature of winter bat activity and provides a baseline for future studies as white-nose syndrome and climate change affect North American bat populations.
Method of primary breast cancer detection and the disease-free interval, adjusting for lead time
Authors: de Munck Linda , Eijkelboom Anouk H , Otten Johannes D M , Broeders Mireille J M , Siesling Sabine
Published: November 2023

Background

Little is known about the impact of screen-detected breast cancer compared with clinically detected breast cancer on the disease-free interval (ie, free from locoregional recurrences, distant metastasis, contralateral breast cancer). Moreover, it is thought that most studies overestimate the beneficial effect of screening, as they do not adjust for lead time. We investigated the association between method of breast cancer detection and disease-free interval, taking lead time into account.

Methods

Women aged 50-76 years, diagnosed with breast cancer between 2005 and 2008 were selected from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Women diagnosed in 2005 were divided into screen-detected and clinically detected cancer and had a follow-up of 10 years (2005 cohort). Women diagnosed in 2006-2008 were divided into screen-detected, interval, and nonscreen-related cancer and had a follow-up of 5 years (2006-2008 cohort). A previously published method was used to adjust for lead time. Analyses were repeated correcting for confounding variables instead of lead time.

Results

The 2005 cohort included 6215 women. Women with screen-detected cancer had an improved disease-free interval compared with women with clinically detected cancer (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.77, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.68 to 0.87). The 2006-2008 cohort included 15 176 women. Women with screen-detected or interval cancer had an improved disease-free interval compared with women with nonscreen-related cancer (HR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.66 to 0.88; HR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.78 to 0.99, respectively). Correcting for confounders instead of lead time did not change associations.

Conclusion

Women with screen-detected cancer had an improved disease-free interval compared with women with a nonscreen-related or clinically detected cancer, after correction for lead time.
Combining individual- and population-level data to develop a Bayesian parity-specific fertility projection model
Authors: Ellison Joanne , Berrington Ann , Dodd Erengul , Forster Jonathan J
Published: November 2023

Fertility projections are vital to anticipate demand for maternity and childcare services, among other uses. Models typically use aggregate population-level data alone, ignoring the richness of individual-level data. We hence develop a Bayesian parity-specific projection model combining such data sources. We apply our method to England and Wales, using individual-level data from Understanding Society. Fitting generalised additive models gives smooth projections across age, cohort, and time since last birth. We also incorporate prior beliefs about the relative importance of the data sources. Our approach generates plausible forecasts by individual-level variables including educational qualification, despite their absence in the population-level data.
Observational bias and young massive cluster characterization − II. Can Gaia accurately observe young clusters and associations?
Authors: Buckner Anne S M , Naylor Tim , Dobbs Clare L , Rieder Steven , Bending Thomas J R
Published: November 2023

Observations of clusters suffer from issues such as completeness, projection effects, resolving individual stars, and extinction. As such, how accurate measurements and conclusions are likely to be? Here, we take cluster simulations (Westerlund2- and Orion-type), synthetically observe them to obtain luminosities, accounting for extinction, and the inherent limits of Gaia, then place them within the real Gaia DR3 catalogue. We then attempt to rediscover the clusters at distances of between 500 and 4300 pc. We show the spatial and kinematic criteria that are best able to pick out the simulated clusters, maximizing completeness, and minimizing contamination. We then compare the properties of the ‘observed’ clusters with the original simulations. We looked at the degree of clustering, the identification of clusters and subclusters within the data sets, and whether the clusters are expanding or contracting. Even with a high level of incompleteness (e.g. $\lt 2~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ stellar members identified), similar qualitative conclusions tend to be reached compared to the original data set, but most quantitative conclusions are likely to be inaccurate. Accurate determination of the number, stellar membership, and kinematic properties of subclusters are the most problematic to correctly determine, particularly at larger distances due to the disappearance of cluster substructure as the data become more incomplete, but also at smaller distances where the misidentification of asterisms as true structure can be problematic. Unsurprisingly, we tend to obtain better quantitative agreement of properties for our more massive Westerlund2-type cluster. We also make optical style images of the clusters over our range of distances.
Needlet Karhunen–Loève (NKL): a method for cleaning foregrounds from 21 cm intensity maps
Authors: Podczerwinski John , Timbie Peter T
Published: November 2023

This paper introduces a technique called needlet Karhunen–Loéve (NKL), which cleans both polarized and unpolarized foregrounds from H i intensity maps by applying a Karhunen–Loéve transform on the needlet coefficients. In NKL, one takes advantage of correlations not only along the line of sight, but also between different angular regions, referred to as ‘chunks’. This provides a distinct advantage over many of the standard techniques applied to map space that one finds in the literature, which do not consider such spatial correlations. Moreover, the NKL technique does not require any priors on the nature of the foregrounds, which is important when considering polarized foregrounds. We also introduce a modified version of Generalized Needlet Internal Linear Combination (GNILC), referred to as MGNILC, which incorporates an approximation of the foregrounds to improve performance. The NKL and MGNILC techniques are tested on simulated maps which include polarized foregrounds. Their performance is compared to the GNILC, generalized morphological component analysis, independent component analysis, and principal component analysis techniques. Two separate tests were performed. One at 1.84 < z < 2.55 and the other at 0.31 < z < 0.45. NKL was found to provide the best performance in both tests, providing a factor of 10–50 improvement over GNILC at $k \lt 0.1\, {\rm hMpc^{-1}}$ in the higher redshift case and $k \lt 0.03 \, {\rm hMpc^{-1}}$ in the lower redshift case. However, none of the methods were found to recover the power spectrum satisfactorily at all baryon acoustic oscillations scales.
Planetary perturbers: flaring star–planet interactions in Kepler and TESS
Authors: Ilin Ekaterina , Poppenhäger Katja , Chebly Judy , Ilić Nikoleta , Alvarado-Gómez Julián D
Published: November 2023

In many star–planet systems discovered so far, the innermost planet orbits within only a few stellar radii. In these systems, planets could become in situ probes of the extended stellar magnetic field. Because they disturb the field as they move, they are expected to trigger flares in the corona. Potential differences to the energies and morphologies of intrinsic flares are poorly constrained. However, as we expect planet-induced flares to correlate with the planet’s orbital period, we can identify them from a clustering of flares in phase with the planet’s orbit. We used the excellent phase coverage from Kepler and the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite to find flaring star–planet systems, compile a catalogue of all their flares, and measure how much they cluster in orbital phase. In the 1811 searched systems, we found 25 single stars with three or more flares each. We quantified the significance of the clustering in each system, and compared it against the theoretically expected power of magnetic interaction that leads to planet-induced flaring. Most systems do not show any clustering, consistent with low expected power. Those we expect to show clustering fall on two branches. An inactive one, without any signs of clustering, and a tentative active one, where the clustering becomes more pronounced as the expected power of interaction increases. The flares in HIP 67522 are prominently clustered (p < 0.006). This young hot Jupiter system is the most promising candidate for magnetic star–planet interaction in our sample.
Scalar–tensor–vector–gravity and NGC-1277
Authors: Moffat John W , Toth Viktor T
Published: November 2023

NGC1277 is a compact but massive lenticular galaxy that shows no signs of the presence of dark matter. We find that this galaxy’s behaviour is consistent not only with Newtonian dynamics, but also with the predictions of scalar–tensor–vector–gravity, also known as MOG (MOdified Gravity). The compact size of the galaxy, in combination with its large mass, ensures that there are no observable deviations between the predictions of Newtonian and MOG orbital velocities within the galaxy’s visible radius.
DEIMOS spectroscopy of z = 6 protocluster candidate in COSMOS – a massive protocluster embedded in a large-scale structure?
Authors: Brinch Malte , Greve Thomas R , Sanders David B , McPartland Conor J R , Chartab Nima , Gillman Steven , Vijayan Aswin P , Lee Minju M , Brammer Gabriel , Casey Caitlin M , Ilbert Olivier , Jin Shuowen , Magdis Georgios , McCracken H J , Sillassen Nikolaj B , Toft Sune , Zavala Jorge A
Published: November 2023

We present the results of our Keck/DEep Imaging Multi-Object Spectrograph spectroscopic follow-up of candidate galaxies of i-band-dropout protocluster candidate galaxies at z ∼ 6 in the COSMOS field. We securely detect Lyman α emission lines in 14 of the 30 objects targeted, 10 of them being at z = 6 with a signal-to-noise ratio of 5–20; the remaining galaxies are either non-detections or interlopers with redshift too different from z = 6 to be part of the protocluster. The 10 galaxies at z ≈ 6 make the protocluster one of the riches at z > 5. The emission lines exhibit asymmetric profiles with high skewness values ranging from 2.87 to 31.75, with a median of 7.37. This asymmetry is consistent with them being Ly α, resulting in a redshift range of z = 5.85–6.08. Using the spectroscopic redshifts, we recalculate the overdensity map for the COSMOS field and find the galaxies to be in a significant overdensity at the 4σ level, with a peak overdensity of δ = 11.8 (compared to the previous value of δ = 9.2). The protocluster galaxies have stellar masses derived from Bagpipes spectral energy distribution fits of $10^{8.29}\!-\!10^{10.28} \rm \, M_{\rm \odot }$ and star formation rates of $2\!-\!39\, \rm M_{\rm \odot }\rm \, yr^{-1}$, placing them on the main sequence at this epoch. Using a stellar-to-halo-mass relationship, we estimate the dark matter halo mass of the most massive halo in the protocluster to be $\sim 10^{12}\rm M_{\rm \odot }$. By comparison with halo mass evolution tracks from simulations, the protocluster is expected to evolve into a Virgo- or Coma-like cluster in the present day.
Graphene binding on black phosphorus enables high on/off ratios and mobility
Authors: Lin Fanrong , Cao Zhonghan , Xiao Feiping , Liu Jiawei , Qiao Jiabin , Xue Minmin , Hu Zhili , Liu Ying , Lu Huan , Zhang Zhuhua , Martin Jens , Tong Qingjun , Guo Wanlin , Liu Yanpeng
Published: November 2023

Graphene is one of the most promising candidates for integrated circuits due to its robustness against short-channel effects, inherent high carrier mobility and desired gapless nature for Ohmic contact, but it is difficult to achieve satisfactory on/off ratios even at the expense of its carrier mobility, limiting its device applications. Here, we present a strategy to realize high back-gate switching ratios in a graphene monolayer with well-maintained high mobility by forming a vertical heterostructure with a black phosphorus multi-layer. By local current annealing, strain is introduced within an established area of the graphene, which forms a reflective interface with the rest of the strain-free area and thus generates a robust off-state via local current depletion. Applying a positive back-gate voltage to the heterostructure can keep the black phosphorus insulating, while a negative back-gate voltage changes the black phosphorus to be conductive because of hole accumulation. Then, a parallel channel is activated within the strain-free graphene area by edge-contacted electrodes, thereby largely inheriting the intrinsic carrier mobility of graphene in the on-state. As a result, the device can provide an on/off voltage ratio of >103 as well as a mobility of ∼8000 cm2 V−1 s−1 at room temperature, meeting the low-power criterion suggested by the International Roadmap for Devices and Systems.
Brain developmental and cortical connectivity changes in transgenic monkeys carrying the human-specific duplicated gene SRGAP2C
Authors: Meng Xiaoyu , Lin Qiang , Zeng Xuerui , Jiang Jin , Li Min , Luo Xin , Chen Kaimin , Wu Haixu , Hu Yan , Liu Cirong , Su Bing
Published: November 2023

Human-specific duplicated genes contributed to phenotypic innovations during the origin of our own species, such as an enlarged brain and highly developed cognitive abilities. While prior studies on transgenic mice carrying the human-specific SRGAP2C gene have shown enhanced brain connectivity, the relevance to humans remains unclear due to the significant evolutionary gap between humans and rodents. In this study, to investigate the phenotypic outcome and underlying genetic mechanism of SRGAP2C, we generated transgenic cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis) carrying the human-specific SRGAP2C gene. Longitudinal MRI imaging revealed delayed brain development with region-specific volume changes, accompanied by altered myelination levels in the temporal and occipital regions. On a cellular level, the transgenic monkeys exhibited increased deep-layer neurons during fetal neurogenesis and delayed synaptic maturation in adolescence. Moreover, transcriptome analysis detected neotenic expression in molecular pathways related to neuron ensheathment, synaptic connections, extracellular matrix and energy metabolism. Cognitively, the transgenic monkeys demonstrated improved motor planning and execution skills. Together, our findings provide new insights into the mechanisms by which the newly evolved gene shapes the unique development and circuitry of the human brain.
Delays in Hepatitis B Immunization Series Completion in People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: Sheikh Daanish , Staggers Kristen A , Carey Jennifer , Keitel Wendy A , Atmar Robert L , El Sahly Hana M , Whitaker Jennifer A
Published: November 2023

Background

Studies have demonstrated low hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccine series completion among persons with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective record review of persons entering HIV care at 2 clinics in Houston, Texas, between 2010 and 2018. Kaplan-Meier curves summarized time to receipt of HBV vaccines for those eligible for vaccination. We estimated the proportions of patients who had received 1, 2, or 3 HBV vaccine doses at 12 and 24 months after entry to care. A Prentice Williams and Peterson total time model was used to evaluate associations between patient characteristics and time to vaccination.

Results

Of the 5357 patients who entered care, 2718 were eligible for HBV vaccination. After 2 years of follow-up, 51.2% of those eligible had received 1 HBV vaccine, 43.2% had received 2, and 28.4% received 3 vaccines. With adjustment for significant cofactors, patients whose CD4 cell count was ≥200/μL (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.43 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.29–1.59]) and transgender patients (1.49 [1.08–2.04]) received any given vaccine dose sooner than those with CD4 cell counts <200/μL or cisgender patients, respectively. Compared with non-Hispanic whites, Hispanic patients were vaccinated sooner (aHR, 1.28 [95% CI, 1.07–1.53]). Those with an active substance use history had a significantly longer time to vaccination than those with no substance use history (aHR, 0.73 [95% CI, .62–.85]).

Conclusions

Strategies are needed to increase HBV vaccine completion rates in our study population, particularly among those with CD4 cell counts <200/μL or with a substance use disorder.
Opportunities to Increase Access to HIV Prevention: Evaluating the Implementation of Pharmacist-Initiated Pre-exposure Prophylaxis in California
Authors: Hunter Lauren A , Packel Laura J , Chitle Pooja , Beltran Raiza M , Rafie Sally , De Martini Loriann , Dong Betty , Harris Orlando , Holloway Ian W , Miyashita Ochoa Ayako , McCoy Sandra I
Published: November 2023

Background

Pharmacies are a promising setting through which to expand access to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention, including pre-exposure and post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP and PEP, respectively). We aimed to evaluate and inform the implementation of California's Senate Bill 159 (2019), allowing pharmacists to independently prescribe PrEP and PEP.

Methods

From October through December 2022, we conducted a cross-sectional study of 919 California pharmacists and pharmacy students, primarily recruited via the email listservs of professional organizations. Participants completed an online survey assessing the implementation of pharmacist-initiated PrEP/PEP, including knowledge, attitudes, practices, perceived barriers, and implementation preferences elicited through a discrete choice experiment.

Results

Among 919 participants (84% practicing pharmacists, 43% in community pharmacies), 11% and 13% reported that pharmacists at their pharmacy initiate PrEP and PEP, respectively. Most believed that pharmacist-initiated PrEP/PEP is important (96%) and were willing to provide PrEP (81%); fewer (27%) had PrEP/PEP training. Common implementation barriers were lack of staff/time and payment for pharmacist services. Participants preferred PrEP implementation models with in-pharmacy rapid oral HIV testing and pharmacists specifically hired to provide PrEP services.

Conclusions

Despite pharmacists’ supportive attitudes, Senate Bill 159 implementation in California pharmacies remains limited, in part due to policy-level and organizational-level barriers. Ensuring PrEP/PEP-related payment for services and sufficient workforce capacity is key to leveraging pharmacists’ role in HIV prevention.
Invasive Community-Onset Gram-Positive Infections From July 2018 Through December 2022 at 2 Children's Hospitals
Authors: Engstrom Eric E , Plattner Alexander S , McNeil J Chase , Hulten Kristina G , Reich Patrick J , Boyle Mary G , Dunn James J , Fritz Stephanie A , Kaplan Sheldon L
Published: November 2023

Background

Invasive infections caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (invasive group A streptococcus [iGAS]) and Streptococcus pneumoniae (invasive pneumococcal disease [IPD]) decreased substantially at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our study sought to evaluate the extent of this decrease and the trends of these infections since reversion of societal adjustments incident to the pandemic. We also wanted to compare the frequency of these infections with invasive community-onset Staphylococcus aureus (I-CO-SA) infections and common respiratory viral infections in this period.

Methods

Cases of iGAS, IPD, and I-CO-SA infections were identified prospectively and retrospectively at 2 large US children's hospitals by positive cultures from July 2018 through December 2022. Admission data were used to estimate frequency. For comparison, rates of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and SARS-CoV-2 were estimated by the number of positive viral test results at each institution.

Results

I-CO-SA infections showed little variation in the study period. Rates of iGAS infection and IPD decreased by 46% and 44%, respectively, from 2019 to 2020, coinciding with a substantial decrease in RSV and influenza. In 2022, RSV and influenza infection rates increased to prepandemic winter season rates, coinciding with a return to prepandemic rates of IPD (225% increase from 2021 to 2022) and a surge above prepandemic rates of iGAS infections (543% increase from 2021 to 2022).

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic had an unexpected influence on IPD and iGAS infections that was temporally related to changes in rates of viral infections.
Functional brain connectivity during social attention predicts individual differences in social skill
Authors: Brindley Samantha R , Skyberg Amalia M , Graves Andrew J , Connelly Jessica J , Puglia Meghan H , Morris James P
Published: November 2023

Social attention involves selectively attending to and encoding socially relevant information. We investigated the neural systems underlying the wide range of variability in both social attention ability and social experience in a neurotypical sample. Participants performed a selective social attention task, while undergoing fMRI and completed self-report measures of social functioning. Using connectome-based predictive modeling, we demonstrated that individual differences in whole-brain functional connectivity patterns during selective attention to faces predicted task performance. Individuals with more cerebellar-occipital connectivity performed better on the social attention task, suggesting more efficient social information processing. Then, we estimated latent communities of autistic and socially anxious traits using exploratory graph analysis to decompose heterogeneity in social functioning between individuals. Connectivity strength within the identified social attention network was associated with social skills, such that more temporal-parietal connectivity predicted fewer challenges with social communication and interaction. These findings demonstrate that individual differences in functional connectivity strength during a selective social attention task are related to varying levels of self-reported social skill.
Gain/loss framing moderates the VMPFC’s response to persuasive messages when behaviors have personal outcomes
Authors: Minich Matt , Chang Chen-Ting , Kriss Lauren A , Tveleneva Arina , Cascio Christopher N
Published: November 2023

Activity within the ventral medial prefrontal cortex (VMPFC) during encoding of persuasive messages has been shown to predict message-consistent behaviors both within scanner samples and at the population level. This suggests that neuroimaging can aid in the development of better persuasive messages, but little is known about how the brain responds to different message features. Building on past findings, the current study found that gain-framed persuasive messages elicited more VMPFC activation than loss-framed messages, but only when messages addressed outcomes that would be experienced by participants directly. Participants also perceived gain-framed messages as more effective than loss-framed messages, and self-reported perceptions of message effectiveness were positively correlated with VMPFC activation. These results support theories that VMPFC activity during message encoding indexes perceptions of value and self-relevance and demonstrate that established theories of persuasion can improve the understanding of the neural correlates of persuasion.
Neogene climatic fluctuations and poor connectivity with the centres of diversity shaped the Western Palaearctic net-winged beetle fauna
Authors: Motyka Michal , Kusy Dominik , Bilkova Renata , Bocak Ladislav
Published: November 2023

Only 22 net-winged beetle species (Elateroidea: Lycidae) are known from the Western Palaearctic region (WPR), i.e. less than 0.5% of the global lycid diversity and much fewer than from similar latitudes of East Asia or Northern America. We used comprehensive distribution data and a molecular phylogeny of ~400 world lycids, including 14 European species, to provide a new perspective for understanding the structure and evolution of this group in the WPR. All Mediterranean species represent deeply rooted lineages with relatives in eastern Asia. These species occur in relictual ranges close to the family’s Pleistocene refugial edge. The phylogeny points to the loss of biological connection with East Asia since the Mid-Miocene. A third of WPR species is widespread in Central and Northern Europe, reaching eastern Asia, some of them possibly younger elements of the European fauna. Unlike the relatively high diversity in the Eocene amber, the extant net-winged beetles represent a small fraction of elateroid diversity in the WPR and are generally rare. Therefore, we assume that most WPR species are relics trapped in Mediterranean refugia since the onset of the Plio-Pleistocene cooling and are critically endangered by the ongoing loss of suitable habitats.
Phylogeny, biogeography, and integrative taxonomic revision of the Afro-Arabian rodent genus Ochromyscus (Muridae: Murinae: Praomyini)
Authors: Meheretu Yonas , Mikula Ondřej , Frynta Daniel , Frýdlová Petra , Mulualem Getachew , Lavrenchenko Leonid A , Kostin Danila S , Sh Abdirahman Elmi Hassan , Šumbera Radim , Bryja Josef
Published: November 2023

The analyses of Plio-Pleistocene speciation processes in the Horn of Africa are relevant for understanding the evolution of biodiversity patterns of this understudied part of the world. Here we analyse comprehensive genomic and morphological data of the recently delimited murid genus Ochromyscus, one of the few with Afro-Arabian distribution. Using an integrative taxonomic approach, we delimit three species in the genus: two in eastern Africa (O. brockmani and O. niveiventris) and one in southern Arabia (O. yemeni), and detail their distribution, genetic structure, and evolutionary history. Despite their morphological similarity, the three species split before the Pleistocene, and their interspecific genetic divergence level is comparable to that between sister genera of murine rodents. The split between two taxa living on opposite sides of the Red Sea (O. brockmani vs. O. yemeni) is younger than the separation of their ancestor and O. niveiventris living in eastern Africa. The colonization of Arabia can be explained either by the presence of a relatively recent continental bridge or by the past occurrence of the genus along the eastern coast of the Red Sea and subsequent spreading through the Sinai Peninsula.
Chronic Pulmonary Artery Stenosis: Time to Think as a Disease Entity
Authors: Dong Wenjie , Zhang Jingwen , Su Hongling , Cao Yunshan
Published: November 2023

Chronic pulmonary artery stenosis (CPAS) is characterized by a reduction or complete obstruction of the cross-sectional area of the pulmonary artery owing to various causes. The condition exhibits similar pathophysiological progress, leading to pulmonary hypertension (PH), reduced physical endurance, right heart failure, and death. Although CPAS is often regarded as a subgroup of PH, it can manifest independently for an extended duration before the onset of PH and can significantly impact patient quality of life. It may therefore be more appropriate to consider PH as pathophysiological progression of CPAS, thereby recognizing CPAS as a distinct disease entity.
The “Top 50 High Impact Researches of Traditional Medicine” published in 2021
Authors: Li Xiao , Xu Dong , Tu Jianfeng , Pang Bo , Yan Xiaohui , Cui Yuanlu , Wang Yuefei , Liu Cunzhi , Wang Yi , Zhang Junhua
Published: November 2023

In recent years, significant progress has been achieved in both basic and clinical research within the field of traditional medicine, garnering increasing attention worldwide. To further promote a high-quality and international development of traditional medicine, the editorial board of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine provided a collection of the “Top 50 High-impact Researches of Traditional Medicine” published in 2021 through objective indicators and a strict selection process. The findings of the selected articles have a significant academic influence and possess considerable academic value both nationally and internationally. The selected articles cover a wide range of topics, including clinical research, acupuncture, pharmacology, chemistry, biosynthesis, medicinal plant resources, and new formulation and drug delivery system research on traditional medicine. Therefore, this article outlines the selection process of the top 50 high-impact research articles, analyzes their research characteristics, and provides a brief summary of their new findings and perspectives in the field of traditional medicine.
The Effect of Breast Cancer Risk Reduction Program Applied to Women With High Breast Cancer Risk on Participation in Screening, Health Beliefs, and Behavior
Authors: Ozcelik Habibe , Gozum Sebahat
Published: November 2023

Background

Women with a family history of breast cancer at an early age (≤50 years) have an increased risk of breast cancer themselves.

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of a Breast Cancer Risk Reduction Program (BrCaRRP) on increasing risk reduction behaviors, developing health beliefs, and screening participation in high-risk women with a family history of breast cancer.

Methods

This is a single-center, single-blind, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial. First-degree biological relatives of breast cancer patients (aged ≤50 years) were divided into intervention (n = 38) and control (n = 39) groups. The intervention (BrCaRRP) group received multiple interventions including education, counseling, case management, and surveillance via face-to-face and telephone interviews throughout a 12-week period, within the framework of the Health Belief Model and Health Promotion Model. The control group was given an information note, and the routine practice of the clinic was performed. Results were measured at baseline and at week 12 when the interventions were finished.

Results

The probability of participation in breast cancer screenings in the BrCaRRP group was 5.11 times higher. Health motivation was found to have increased in the intervention group. There was no difference in susceptibility and nutritional behavior between the groups. Health responsibility and physical activity increased in the intervention group. The frequency of consulting genetic counseling increased in the BrCaRRP group.

Conclusions

Breast Cancer Risk Reduction Program increased participation in screening in women and positively affected their health beliefs and behaviors.

Implications for Practice

Breast Cancer Risk Reduction Program could alter screening and health-promoting behaviors. However, other interventions are still needed to reduce the high level of fear.