bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the prediction model of basic components on the quality of buckwheat noodles
Authors: Zhang Huiyu , Fan Mingcong , Li Yan , Wang Li , Qian Haifeng
Published: December 2022

The sensory quality of noodles is the key factor in determining consumers' acceptance, and the physicochemical properties can reflect the quality of noodles. In this study, the rheological and thermodynamic properties, noodle quality indexes, and molecular and structural parameters were characterized by adding different levels of buckwheat flour. Pearson correlation analysis was used to evaluate the correlation between physicochemical indexes and basic components of noodles. A comprehensive evaluation model was established by the combination of principal component analysis (PCA) and regression analysis (RA) to evaluate the sensory quality of noodles. The results showed that there was a significant correlation between the physicochemical indexes and the basic components. The two principal components extracted by PCA could explain 89.4% of the total variance of the data. RA showed that the comprehensive evaluation value of the principal component model had a very significant negative correlation with the total score of sensory evaluation (R2 = 0.94). In conclusion, this work demonstrated that PCA and RA as an objective protocol had great potential in predicting the sensory quality of noodles.
Disability, program access, empathy and burnout in US medical students: A national study
Authors: Meeks Lisa M. , Pereira‐Lima Karina , Plegue Melissa , Jain Neera R. , Stergiopoulos Erene , Stauffer Catherine , Sheets Zoie , Swenor Bonnelin K. , Taylor Nichole , Addams Amy N. , Moreland Christopher J.
Published: December 2022

Objective

The objective of this study is to investigate whether self‐disclosed disability and self‐reported program access are associated with measures of empathy and burnout in a national sample of US medical students.

Methods

The authors obtained data from students who responded to the Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC) Year 2 Questionnaire (Y2Q) in 2019 and 2020. Data included demographic characteristics, personal variables, learning environment indicators, measures of burnout (Oldenburg Burnout Inventory for Medical Students), empathy (Interpersonal Reactivity Index) and disability‐related questions, including self‐reported disability, disability category and program access. Associations between disability status, program access, empathy and burnout were assessed using multivariable logistic regression models accounting for YQ2 demographic, personal‐related and learning environment measures.

Results

Overall, 23 898 (54.2%) provided disability data and were included. Of those, 2438 (10.2%) self‐reported a disability. Most medical students with disabilities (SWD) self‐reported having program access through accommodations (1215 [49.8%]) or that accommodations were not required for access (824 [33.8%]). Multivariable models identified that compared with students without disabilities, SWD with and without program access presented higher odds of high exhaustion (1.50 [95% CI, 1.34–1.69] and 2.59 [95% CI, 1.93–3.49], respectively) and lower odds of low empathy (0.75 [95% CI, 0.67–.85] and 0.68 [95% CI, 0.52–0.90], respectively). In contrast, multivariable models for disengagement identified that SWD reporting lack of program access presented higher odds of high disengagement compared to students without disabilities (1.43 [95% CI, 1.09–1.87], whereas SWD with program access did not (1.09 [95% CI, 0.97–1.22]).

Conclusions

Despite higher odds of high exhaustion, SWD were less likely to present low empathy regardless of program access, and SWD with program access did not differ from students without disabilities in terms of disengagement. These findings add to our understanding of the characteristics and experiences of SWD including their contributions as empathic future physicians.
The blackgrass genome reveals patterns of non‐parallel evolution of polygenic herbicide resistance
Authors: Cai Lichun , Comont David , MacGregor Dana , Lowe Claudia , Beffa Roland , Neve Paul , Saski Christopher
Published: December 2022

Globally, weedy plants are a major constraint to sustainable crop production. Much of the success of weeds rests with their ability to rapidly adapt in the face of human‐mediated management of agroecosystems. Alopecurus myosuroides (blackgrass) is a widespread and impactful weed affecting agriculture in Europe.

Here we report a chromosome‐scale genome assembly of blackgrass and use this reference genome to explore the genomic/genetic basis of non‐target site herbicide resistance (NTSR). Based on our analysis of F2 seed families derived from two distinct blackgrass populations with the same NTSR phenotype, we demonstrate that the trait is polygenic and evolves from standing genetic variation.

We present evidence that selection for NTSR has signatures of both parallel and non‐parallel evolution. There are parallel and non‐parallel changes at the transcriptional level of several stress‐ and defence‐responsive gene families. At the genomic level, however, the genetic loci underpinning NTSR are different (non‐parallel) between seed families.

We speculate that variation in the number, regulation and function of stress‐ and defence‐related gene families enable weedy species to rapidly evolve NTSR via exaptation of genes within large multi‐functional gene families. These results provide novel insights into the potential for, and nature of plant adaptation in rapidly changing environments.
A quantitative analysis of facial changes after orthodontic treatment with vertical control in patients with idiopathic condylar resorption
Authors: Mao Bochun , Tian Yajing , Li Jing , Zhou Yanheng , Wang Xuedong
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study aimed to investigate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) stability and three‐dimensional (3D) facial changes in class II hyperdivergent patients with stable idiopathic condylar resorption (ICR) after orthodontic camouflage treatment with vertical control by using temporary anchorage devises (TADs).

Methods

Nineteen skeletal class II hyperdivergent patients who were diagnosed with stable ICR underwent bicuspid extraction orthodontic treatment with vertical control via TADs were enrolled. TMJ was evaluated with the cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT) and clinical records before and after treatment. Changes in dental and skeletal parameters were evaluated with cephalometric and dental cast measurements. The 3D morphable model (3DMM) method was performed with the MeshMonk toolbox for the 3D facial analysis. After the reposition and landmark setting process, 3D facial heatmaps were used to illustrate facial changes, and the 3D deviations of landmarks were calculated.

Results

Both the imaging evaluation and clinical examination proved that TMJs remained stable after treatment. The retrusion of the upper and lower incisors reached 6.63 ± 0.79 mm and 3.78 ± 1.49 mm. The intrusion of the upper first molar reached 2.65 ± 0.75 mm, with a 2.27 ± 0.82° counterclockwise rotation of the mandibular plane. An upward shift of the soft tissue pogonion (2.34 ± 2.03 mm) and protrusion of Po‐NB (0.82 ± 0.70 mm) was gained. Larger intrusion was found in the lower lip (3.29 ± 0.80 mm) than in the upper lip (2.20 ± 0.69 mm).

Conclusion

Camouflage orthodontic treatment with TAD for vertical control is acceptable for skeletal class II hyperdivergent patients with ICR, which can improve the facial profile.
SCALP syndrome with a germline heterozygous DOCK6 mutation and somatic mosaic NRASQ61R mutation
Authors: Meyer Summer N. , Simmons Elanee M. , McPherson John D. , Awasthi Smita , Kiuru Maija
Published: December 2022

We present a case of SCALP syndrome, which was diagnosed in a male infant with the characteristic findings of sebaceous nevi, central nervous system malformations, aplasia cutis congenita, limbal dermoid, and giant congenital melanocytic nevi, or pigmented nevi. We identified a germline compound heterozygous DOCK6 mutation and a somatic mosaic NRAS Q61R mutation in the giant congenital melanocytic nevus. This report will increase clinician awareness of SCALP syndrome and augment the literature in characterizing this rare syndrome, including its genetic background.
A case of eruptive lichen spinulosus after toxic epidermal necrolysis
Authors: Phong Celine H. , Birmingham Suzanne W. , Lee Bonnie A. , Rojek Nathan W.
Published: December 2022

We report a case of a 13‐year‐old boy who presented with eruptive monomorphic white papules on the trunk and arms involving regions previously affected by toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). Biopsy revealed compact keratin involving the hair follicle and sparse mixed perivascular infiltrate, findings consistent with lichen spinulosus. Improvement was noted after treatment with ammonium lactate 12% lotion. While cutaneous dyschromia and xerosis are common after TEN, lichen spinulosus has not yet been described in the literature. It is important for providers to be aware of any potential cutaneous sequelae of TEN that can affect quality of life in order to best counsel their patients.
Please don't make me wait! Influence of customers' waiting preference and no‐show behavior on appointment systems
Authors: Zhang Ruijie , Han Xiaohua , Wang Rowan , Zhang Jianghua , Zhang Yinghao
Published: December 2022

Appointment systems are widely adopted in many service organizations. The simplest and most common format is the equally‐spaced (ES) system, in which the inter‐appointment times between consecutive arrivals are equal. One major drawback of such a system is the long expected waiting time for later arrivals, which makes later appointment positions unappealing to customers. As a result, customers who take these positions are more likely to abandon their appointments, leading to a higher no‐show rate. To address this issue, we examine a novel equal‐waiting (EW) scheduling system under which the expected waiting times are equal across appointments. Through a series of controlled lab experiments, we establish that the EW system increases the attractiveness of later appointments and that customers who are willing to take these appointments are more likely to show up. We then incorporate this individual‐level preference and no‐show behavior into models to evaluate its impact on the system‐level performance. We find that, compared with the traditional ES system, the EW system can significantly increase customers' show‐up rate and improve system utilization.
Attitudes toward dementia screening and influential factors in older adults in China
Authors: Xue Bing , Luo Chang , Luo Xianwu
Published: December 2022

Background

Dementia will likely be an ongoing concern for future generations, and according to the World Health Organization, two‐thirds of dementia cases are missed diagnoses. We aimed to explore the attitudes of older adults toward dementia screening and the related influencing factors.

Methods

A multicentre cross‐sectional study was conducted. Data were collected using questionnaires between 2020 December and 2021 June from five provinces in China. The study included older adults aged 60 years or older, living in China. A sociodemographic questionnaire and the Perceptions Regarding Investigational Screening for Memory in Primary Care scale were used to assess attitudes toward and influencing factors of dementia screening.

Results

A total of 279 participants completed the questionnaires. The results revealed housing status as a positive factor in the acceptance dimension, while high income was the primary positive factor in the benefits of screening dimension. Having religious beliefs, low income, and never participating in social activities were positive factors for the stigma dimension. Widowed marital status and participation in social activities were negative factors for the independence dimension, while having religious beliefs positively influenced the suffering dimension.

Conclusions

This study showed that participants held a relatively positive attitude toward dementia screening, although they had concerns about stigma and negative impact on independence. Further studies are required to develop intervention strategies to help older adults improve their attitudes and quality of life, promote cognitive health, and facilitate healthy ageing.
Wetland vegetation regeneration in response to tidal reinstatement on an abandoned sugar cane farm
Authors: Grieger Rebekah , Hadwen Wade L. , Mackey Brendan , Capon Samantha J.
Published: December 2022

Supratidal wetlands are threatened by agricultural production and are highly vulnerable to climate change, particularly through sea level rise (SLR). While vegetation structure and composition of supratidal wetlands will likely change under projected SLR with run‐on effects for ecosystem service provision, these changes can provide opportunities for restoration of adjacent agricultural land. Here, we investigated the natural regenerative potential of supratidal wetlands on abandoned agricultural land in Southeast Queensland, Australia, specifically, responses of wetland vegetation communities to simulated SLR, through tidal reinstatement. In 15 years since crop abandonment, distinct communities of typical supratidal wetland vegetation have naturally reestablished, in predominately freshwater conditions, with minimal management intervention. Reinstating tidal floodwater increased the flooded extent and permanence of brackish water. Four repeat surveys of vegetation composition, structure, and condition were conducted in permanent plots established in Casuarina swamp, Melaleuca swamp, herbaceous marsh, and riparian zone vegetation communities, to observe change over time. Species richness decreased in all regenerating communities (Herbaceous marsh, Casuarina, and Melaleuca) post flood gate removal. Understory vegetation cover also decreased in Melaleuca and Casuarina plots, but increased in herbaceous marsh plots, with increased cover of salt‐tolerant species throughout. Changes in woody vegetation community and structure were not observed during this short study (2.5 years), although the regenerative capacity of woody and herbaceous species was reduced. Supratidal wetland vegetation communities can naturally reestablish in areas of abandoned agricultural land, however, increased saltwater flooding (likely with SLR) will put these communities at risk of transition to salt‐tolerant vegetation.
Matching forerunner cities: Climate policy in Turku, Groningen, Rostock, and Potsdam
Authors: Kern Kristine , Grönholm Sam , Haupt Wolfgang , Hopman Luca
Published: December 2022

This article analyzes and compares the climate policy and transformation pathways of the forerunner cities Turku (Finland), Groningen (The Netherlands), Rostock, and Potsdam (both located in Germany). Our study combines an international comparison of cities located in three different countries with a national comparison of two German cities. This research design is based on the assumption that national context matters. We argue that the chances for scaling local experiments between cities are particularly high among matching cities, which resemble each other. Such cities have the capability to learn by matchmaking, nationally as well as internationally. All four cities are mid‐sized cities of roughly the same size located in advanced democracies in northern and continental Europe. Moreover, within their countries, all four cities have acquired the reputation of being forerunners in the area of climate policy. First, we focus on a comparison of the four cities and identify the strengths and weaknesses of their climate policies. Second, we assess the scaling potential of local experiments, in particular institutional and organizational innovations, integrative and participatory approaches, and leadership. Third, we analyze actual scaling between the two German cities, which share the same national context. More generally, we explore how matching cities can develop from local pioneers to internationally acknowledged leaders, which have the ability to upscale successful local initiatives, nationally as well as internationally.
Acute effects of insulin and insulin‐induced hypoglycaemia on carotid body chemoreceptor activity and cardiorespiratory responses in dogs
Authors: Baby Santhosh M. , Zaidi Faisal , Hunsberger Gerald E. , Sokal David , Gupta Isha , Conde Silvia V. , Chew Daniel , Rall Kristen , Coatney Robert W.
Published: December 2022

The carotid body chemoreceptors (CBC) play an important role in the adaptive counter‐regulatory response to hypoglycaemia by evoking the CBC‐mediated sympathetic neuronal system to restore normoglycaemia. Ex vivo studies have shown varied responses of insulin‐induced hypoglycaemia on CBC function, and several in vivo studies have indirectly established the role of CBCs in restoring normoglycaemia in both animals and humans. However, a direct effect of insulin and/or insulin‐induced hypoglycaemia on CBC activity is not established in animal models. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate in vivo effects of insulin and insulin‐induced hypoglycaemia on CBC activity and cardiorespiration in a preclinical large animal model. The carotid sinus nerve (CSN) activity and cardiorespiratory responses to sodium cyanide (NaCN; 25 µg/kg) were compared before (euglycaemic) and after (hypoglycaemic) intracarotid administration of insulin (12.5–100 µU/dogs) in beagle dogs. Insulin administration increased CSN activity and minute ventilation (E) with significant (P < 0.0001) effects on heart rate and blood pressure. Insulin‐mediated effects on CSN and cardiorespiration were sustained and the change in E was driven by tidal volume only. Insulin significantly (P < 0.0001) lowered blood glucose level. NaCN‐mediated CSN activity and E were significantly (P < 0.0001) augmented during insulin‐induced hypoglycaemia. The augmented E was primarily driven by respiratory frequency and partially by tidal volume. The cardiovascular reflex response mediated through CBC stimulation was significantly (P < 0.0001) exacerbated during insulin‐induced hypoglycaemia. Collectively, these results demonstrate direct effects of insulin and insulin‐induced hypoglycaemia on CBC chemosensitivity to potentiate CBC‐mediated neuroregulatory pathways to initiate adaptive neuroendocrine and cardiorespiratory counter‐regulatory responses to restore normoglycaemia.
Analysis and Fractal Dynamics of Local Fractional Partial Differential Equations Occurring in Physical Sciences
Authors: Dubey Ved Prakash , Singh Jagdev , Alshehri Ahmed M. , Dubey Sarvesh , Kumar Devendra
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we implement the local fractional natural homotopy perturbation method (LFNHPM) to solve certain local fractional partial differential equations (LFPDEs) with fractal initial conditions occurring in physical sciences in a fractal domain. LFPDEs successfully exhibit the important properties of physical models occurring in a fractal medium. The working methodology depicts the feasibility and accuracy of the implemented approach for given LFPDEs. Moreover, the solutions for LFPDEs are obtained in a closed form and are in good agreement with the previously determined results. The numerical simulations are also investigated for each of the LFPDE on Cantor set. The implementation of the method in view of numerical simulations authenticates that the applied method is precise, and useful to investigate the solutions of partial differential equations with local fractional derivatives.
Speakers monitor auditory feedback for temporal alignment and linguistically relevant duration
Authors: Karlin Robin , Parrell Benjamin
Published: December 2022

Recent altered auditory feedback studies suggest that speakers adapt to external perturbations to the duration of syllable nuclei and codas, but there is mixed evidence for adaptation of onsets. This study investigates this asymmetry, testing three hypotheses: (1) onsets adapt only if the perturbation produces a categorical error; (2) previously observed increases in vowel duration stem from feedback delays, rather than adaptation to durational perturbations; (3) gestural coordination between onsets and nuclei prevents independent adaptation of each segment. Word-initial consonant targets received shortening perturbations to approximate a different phoneme (cross-category; VOT of /t/ > /d/; duration of /s/ > /z/) or lengthening perturbations to generate a long version of the same phoneme (within-category; /k/ > [khh]; /ʃ/ > [ʃː]). Speakers adapted the duration of both consonants in the cross-category condition; in the within-category condition, only /k/ showed adaptive shortening. Speakers also lengthened all delayed segments while perturbation was active, even when segment duration was not perturbed. Finally, durational changes in syllable onsets and nuclei were not correlated, indicating that speakers can adjust each segment independently. The data suggest that speakers mainly attend to deviations from the predicted timing of motor states but do adjust for durational errors when linguistically relevant.
Musculoskeletal Injuries in Elite Collegiate Tenpin Bowling Athletes
Authors: Zabierek Briana L. , Wilson Walter C. , DiLiberto Frank E.
Published: December 2022

Context: Collegiate tenpin bowling participation is increasing. Accordingly, the experience level of athletes participating, factors related to performance, as well as training workload and sport specialization are likely evolving. However, literature regarding injury rates remains extremely limited. The purpose of this study was to characterize injuries in collegiate tenpin bowlers. Design: Retrospective cohort survey study. Methods: Tenpin bowling athletes of top-ranked collegiate programs in the United States were invited to participate. Each participant completed an online survey to report on their injury history and additional factors of interest. Descriptive statistics were generated for participant characteristics, injury counts, and overall injury prevalence and recurrence. Chi-square tests were used to determine if overall injury prevalence and recurrence occurred by chance, and to evaluate the influence of gender and conditioning program participation on injury frequencies. Results: The response rate was 40.6% (101/249; N = 101). The sample was 20.02 (1.43) years old and 54.5% female. There were a total of 235 singular and recurrent injuries reported across all body parts. Upper-extremity injuries were the most common (n = 112). Injury prevalence (87%) and recurrence (75%) were more likely than chance (χ2 > 21.3, both P < .001) and not different based on gender (χ2 ≤ 1.1, both P ≥ .33). Injuries were more frequent in the absence of a conditioning program (χ2 = 50.6, P < .001). Conclusions: Injuries and injury recurrence in elite tenpin bowlers were frequent, most common in the upper-extremity, not different based on gender, and more frequent in those without conditioning programs. Findings may serve as foundational knowledge for developing sport-specific rehabilitation and conditioning programs.
Impacts of wind power on air quality, premature mortality, and exposure disparities in the United States
Authors: Qiu Minghao , Zigler Corwin M. , Selin Noelle E.
Published: December 2022

Understanding impacts of renewable energy on air quality and associated human exposures is essential for informing future policy. We estimate the impacts of U.S. wind power on air quality and pollution exposure disparities using hourly data from 2011 to 2017 and detailed atmospheric chemistry modeling. Wind power associated with renewable portfolio standards in 2014 resulted in $2.0 billion in health benefits from improved air quality. A total of 29% and 32% of these health benefits accrued to racial/ethnic minority and low-income populations respectively, below a 2021 target by the Biden administration that 40% of the overall benefits of future federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities. Wind power worsened exposure disparities among racial and income groups in some states but improved them in others. Health benefits could be up to $8.4 billion if displacement of fossil fuel generators prioritized those with higher health damages. However, strategies that maximize total health benefits would not mitigate pollution disparities, suggesting that more targeted measures are needed.
DNA origami–based artificial antigen-presenting cells for adoptive T cell therapy
Authors: Sun Yueyang , Sun Jiajia , Xiao Mingshu , Lai Wei , Li Li , Fan Chunhai , Pei Hao
Published: December 2022

Nanosized artificial antigen-presenting cells (aAPCs) with efficient signal presentation hold great promise for in vivo adoptive cell therapy. Here, we used DNA origami nanostructures as two-dimensional scaffolds to regulate the spatial presentation of activating ligands at nanoscale to construct high-effective aAPCs. The DNA origami–based aAPC comprises costimulatory ligands anti-CD28 antibody anchored at three vertices and T cell receptor (TCR) ligands peptide–major histocompatibility complex (pMHC) anchored at three edges with varying density. The DNA origami scaffold enables quantitative analysis of ligand-receptor interactions in T cell activation at the single-particle, single-molecule resolution. The pMHC-TCR–binding dwell time is increased from 9.9 to 12.1 s with increasing pMHC density, driving functional T cell responses. In addition, both in vitro and in vivo assays demonstrate that the optimized DNA origami–based aAPCs show effective tumor growth inhibiting capability in adoptive immunotherapy. These results provide important insights into the rational design of molecular vaccines for cancer immunotherapy.
Fishing with autoantibodies nets a gut bacteria that drives arthritis
Authors: Clark Rachael A.
Published: December 2022

A fecal bacterial strain cross-reacts with rheumatoid arthritis autoantibodies, stimulates CD4
+
T cells, and induces joint disease in mice.
Chromium isotopes track redox fluctuations in Proterozoic successions of the Chapada Diamantina, São Francisco craton, Brazil
Authors: Caxito Fabrício A. , Frei Robert , Sial Alcides N. , Uhlein Gabriel J. , Lima de Moura William Alexandre , Pereira Egberto , Rodrigues René
Published: December 2022

The Chapada Diamantina region in the São Francisco craton of eastern Brazil is composed of sedimentary successions containing both Mesoproterozoic and Neoproterozoic carbonate levels, making it a key natural laboratory for understanding the fluctuations of Earth's biogeochemical cycles during its middle age. The ca. 1.4–1.2 Ga Caboclo Formation stromatolites yielded unfractionated δ53Crauth (authigenic) (~−0.54‰ to +0.08‰). Ediacaran cap carbonates and phosphatic stromatolites of the Salitre Formation, on the other hand, yielded fractionated δ53Crauth reaching as high as +0.51‰, suggesting the input of 53Cr-rich Cr(VI), first delivered through meltwater-induced post–snowball Earth fluctuating redox conditions and then through weathering and mobilization under a fully oxygenated environment. The acquired data set highlights the very distinct redox conditions throughout the Proterozoic and reinforces the suggestion that after the Cryogenian global glaciations, Earth's atmosphere and hydrosphere became progressively oxygenated during the Ediacaran-Cambrian transition.
Diagenetic priming of submarine landslides in ooze-rich substrates
Authors: Wu Nan , Jackson Christopher A.-L. , Clare Michael A. , Hodgson David M. , Nugraha Harya D. , Steventon Michael J. , Zhong Guangfa
Published: December 2022

Oozes are the most widespread deep-sea sediment in the global ocean, but very little is known about how changes in their physical properties during burial impact slope stability and related geohazards. We used three-dimensional seismic reflection, geochemical, and petrophysical data acquired both within and adjacent to 13 large (in total ~6330 km2) submarine slides on the Exmouth Plateau, North West Shelf, Australia, to investigate how the pre-slide physical properties of oozes control slope failure and emplacement processes. Our integrated data set allows potential slide surfaces to be detected within ooze successions, a crucial advance for improved submarine geohazard assessment. Moreover, we demonstrate that the interplay of tectonics, ocean current activity, and silica diagenesis can prime multiple slides on very low-gradient slopes in tropical oceanic basins. Therefore, the diagenetic state of silica-rich sediments should be considered in future studies to improve slope stability assessments.
“Excess Ar” by laboratory alteration of biotite
Authors: Villa Igor M. , Bosio Giulia
Published: December 2022

Many biotite phenocrysts from marine tephra layers have substoichiometric potassium concentrations and alkali occupation <<2.0 atoms per formula unit. Diagenetic alteration is an expected effect of exposure of fresh magmatic minerals to interstitial water and brine intrusions after the deposition and burial of sediments. To test the effect of diagenetic alteration on potassium-argon ages, we irradiated and step heated untreated Fish Canyon biotite (t = 28.2 Ma) and several aliquots leached to various extents in strong and weak acids. Laboratory alteration caused loss of K, age spectrum discordance, high step ages and total gas ages, Ar release at lower furnace temperature, higher Cl/K and Ca/K, and a slight decrease in 36Ar concentration. Potassium loss was always higher than 40Ar* loss. Electron microprobe element maps document that acids preferentially penetrated in phyllosilicate interlayers, removing K (and Na). Because Ar* is removed to a lesser extent than K, we propose that natural 40K decay partly implants radiogenic Ar* into the tetrahedral-octahedral-tetrahedral (T-O-T) phyllosilicate layer, where Ar is shielded from interlayer leaching. The recoiled 39Ar, which was produced by irradiation after the leaching, also partitioned between T-O-T and the interlayer; age spectrum discordance was probably enhanced by the heterogeneous partition of 39Ar and 40Ar* in leached samples.
Uncommon presentations of common variable immunodeficiency
Authors: Alok Akankcha , Aslam Sadaf , Greene John N
Published: December 2022

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a primary immunodeficiency disorder that causes decreased immunity and increased susceptibility to infections. It affects B lymphocyte differentiation, resulting in predominantly bacterial and less frequently viral, fungal, and protozoal infections. The respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts where antibody defences are essential are usually affected. Individuals with CVID are also predisposed to developing lymphoid and gastrointestinal malignancies. We present two cases with rare infectious and oncological complications of CVID, including a patient withMycobacterium aviumcomplex-intracellularinfection and ovarian cancer, and another patient with group BStreptococcusempyema of the lung with acute myeloid leukaemia. The main objective of this study is to highlight how CVID-induced hypogammaglobulinaemia can lead to rare infections and malignancies. The management of these complications can vary according to severity, but an awareness of their existence is crucial to diagnose them promptly in an already immunocompromised CVID patient.
Subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma: an unusual cause of right thigh hypertrophy
Authors: Ayesh (Haj Yousef) Mahmoud Husni , Al-Khatib Sohaib M , Khasawneh Ruba A , Rahabneh Laith
Published: December 2022

A man in his mid-20s presented with a painless swelling over his right thigh, which had been progressively increasing over 3 years. He underwent an excisional biopsy for the same, which showed reactive lymphadenopathy. Since the last year and a half, he developed a lower abdominal wall swelling with mild redness over it. In addition, over the last few months before presentation to haematology outpatient clinic, he experienced bouts of fever, night sweats, anorexia, weight loss and right inguinal lymphadenopathy. On examination, splenomegaly was identified. In view of the patients’ symptoms, he underwent a positron emission tomography scan, which showed hypermetabolic activity in the subcutaneous tissue sparing the lymph nodes and spleen. A deep skin punch biopsy taken from his right thigh was consistent with the diagnosis of subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma αβ T-cell phenotype. The patient was treated successfully with oral steroids and on routine follow-up, he is in remission for 5 years.
Myocarditis and myopericarditis cases following COVID-19 mRNA vaccines
administered to 12–17-year olds in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Cheng Daryl R , Clothier Hazel J , Morgan Hannah J , Roney Emma , Shenton Priya , Cox Nicholas , Jones Bryn O , Schrader Silja , Crawford Nigel W , Buttery Jim P
Published: December 2022

Importance

COVID-19 mRNA vaccine-associated myocarditis has previously been
described; however specific features in the adolescent population are
currently not well understood.

Objective

To describe myocarditis adverse events following immunisation
reported following any COVID-19 mRNA vaccines in the adolescent
population in Victoria, Australia.

Design

Statewide, population-based study.

Setting

Surveillance of Adverse Events Following Vaccination in the
Community (SAEFVIC) is the vaccine-safety service for Victoria,
Australia.

Participants

All SAEFVIC reports of myocarditis and myopericarditis in
12–17-year-old COVID-19 mRNA vaccinees submitted between 22 February
2021 and 22 February 2022, as well as accompanying diagnostic
investigation results where available, were assessed using Brighton
Collaboration criteria for diagnostic certainty.

Exposures

Any mRNA COVID-19 vaccine.

Main outcomes/Mmeasure

Confirmed myocarditis as per Brighton Collaboration criteria (levels
1–3).

Results

Clinical review demonstrated definitive (Brighton level 1) or
probable (level 2) diagnoses in 75 cases. Confirmed myocarditis
reporting rates were 8.3 per 100 000 doses in this age group. Cases were
predominantly male (n=62, 82.7%) and post dose 2 (n=61, 81.3%). Rates
peaked in the 16–17-year-old age group and were higher in males than
females (17.7 vs 3.9 per 100 000, p=<0.001).

The most common presenting symptoms were chest pain, dyspnoea and
palpitations. A large majority of cases who had a cardiac MRI had
abnormalities (n=33, 91.7%). Females were more likely to have ongoing
clinical symptoms at 1-month follow-up (p=0.02).

Conclusion

Accurate evaluation and confirmation of episodes of COVID-19 mRNA
vaccine-associated myocarditis enabled understanding of clinical
phenotypes in the adolescent age group. Any potential vaccination and
safety surveillance policies needs to consider age and gender
differences.
Normal reference values for aerobic fitness in cystic fibrosis: a scoping review
Authors: Tomlinson Owen W , Wadey Curtis A , Williams Craig A
Published: December 2022

Objective

The importance of aerobic fitness (VO2peak) in cystic fibrosis (CF) is well established, and regular exercise testing is recommended. To standardise VO2peak, a ‘percentage of predicted’ (%pred) derived from normative reference values (NRV), as promoted by the 2015 European Cystic Fibrosis Society Exercise Working Group (ECFS EWG), can be reported. However, the NRVs used in CF and their relative frequency is unknown.

Method

A scoping review was performed via systematic database searches (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, SciELO, EBSCO) and forward citation searches for studies that include people with CF and report VO2peakas %pred. Studies were screened using Covidence, and data related to patient demographics, testing modality and reference equations were extracted. Additional analyses were performed on studies published in 2016–2021, following the ECFS EWG statement in 2015.

Results

A total of 170 studies were identified, dating from 1984 to 2022, representing 6831 patients with CF, citing 34 NRV. Most studies (154/170) used cycle ergometry, 15/170 used treadmills, and the remainder used alternative, combination or undeclared modalities. In total, 61/170 failed to declare the NRV used. There were 61 studies published since the ECFS EWG statement, whereby 18/61 used the suggested NRV.

Conclusion

There is a wide discrepancy in NRV used in the CF literature base to describe VO2peakas %pred, with few studies using NRV from the ECFS EWG statement. This high variance compromises the interpretation and comparison of studies while leaving them susceptible to misinterpretation and limiting replication. Standardisation and alignment of reporting of VO2peakvalues are urgently needed.
Targeting CD89 on tumor-associated macrophages overcomes resistance to immune checkpoint blockade
Authors: Xu Lijun , Li Bingyu , Pi Chenyu , Zhu Zhaohua , Tao Fei , Xie Kun , Feng Yan , Xu Xiaoqing , Yin Yanxin , Gu Hua , Fang Jianmin
Published: December 2022

Background

Despite the survival benefits observed with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) treatment—programmed cell death-1/programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-1/PD-L1), many patients with cancer have not benefited from these agents because of impaired antigen presentation and other resistance mechanisms. To overcome resistance to checkpoint therapy, we designed bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) targeting CD89 and tumor antigens. We demonstrated their immunomodulatory efficacy as a separate treatment strategy or combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Methods

We have previously generated a heterodimeric one-arm IgG1 Fc-based bispecific antibody. For animal efficacy studies, murine tumors in a humanized transgenic mice model were used to determine the effects of CD89-bispecific antibodies on antigen presentation and immune cell recruitment. The efficacy of the CD89 bispecific antibody against tumors resistant to pembrolizumab was evaluated in double-transgenic mice.

Results

BsAbs targeting CD89 on tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) increased the ratio of M1:M2 and activated the antigen presentation, leading to increased cytotoxic T cell-mediated tumor regression. CD89-BsAbs also potentiated a combinational antitumor effect with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors and overcame the ICB resistance by augmenting cytotoxic T-cell infiltration and reshaping tumor immune microenvironment. In an hCD89/hPD-1 double transgenic mouse model engrafted with pembrolizumab-resistant B16-HER2 tumor cells, the HER2-CD89 bispecific antibody potently inhibited tumor growth.

Conclusions

CD89 BsAbs targeting tumor antigens and TAMs controlled tumor growth in animal models by improving antigen presentation and T-cell infiltration. Our results suggest a general strategy for overcoming resistance to ICB.
T cells of colorectal cancer patients’ stimulated by neoantigenic and cryptic peptides better recognize autologous tumor cells
Authors: Schwarz Sandra , Schmitz Johanna , Löffler Markus W , Ghosh Michael , Rammensee Hans-Georg , Olshvang Evgenia , Markel Marvin , Mockel-Tenbrinck Nadine , Dzionek Andrzej , Krake Susann , Arslan Basak , Kampe Kapil Dev , Wendt Anne , Bauer Peter , Mullins Christina S , Schlosser Andreas , Linnebacher Michael
Published: December 2022

Background

Patients with cancers that exhibit extraordinarily high somatic mutation numbers are ideal candidates for immunotherapy and enable identifying tumor-specific peptides through stimulation of tumor-reactive T cells (Tc).

Methods

Colorectal cancers (CRC) HROC113 and HROC285 were selected based on high TMB, microsatellite instability and HLA class I expression. Their HLA ligandome was characterized using mass spectrometry, compared with the HLA ligand atlas and HLA class I-binding affinity was predicted. Cryptic peptides were identified using Peptide-PRISM. Patients’ Tc were isolated from either peripheral blood (pTc) or tumor material (tumor-infiltrating Tc, TiTc) and expanded. In addition, B-lymphoblastoid cells (B-LCL) were generated and used as antigen-presenting cells. pTc and TiTc were stimulated twice for 7 days using peptide pool-loaded B-LCL. Subsequently, interferon gamma (IFNγ) release was quantified by ELISpot. Finally, cytotoxicity against autologous tumor cells was assessed in a degranulation assay.

Results

100 tumor-specific candidate peptides—97 cryptic peptides and 3 classically mutated neoantigens—were selected. The neoantigens originated from single nucleotide substitutions in the genesIQGAP1, CTNNB1,andTRIT1. Cryptic and neoantigenic peptides inducing IFNγ secretion of Tc were further investigated. Stimulation of pTc and TiTc with neoantigens and selected cryptic peptides resulted in increased release of cytotoxic granules in the presence of autologous tumor cells, substantiating their improved tumor cell recognition. Tetramer staining showed an enhanced number of pTc and TiTc specific for the IQGAP1 neoantigen. Subpopulation analysis prior to peptide stimulation revealed that pTc mainly consisted of memory Tc, whereas TiTc constituted primarily of effector and effector memory Tc. This allows to infer that TiTc reacting to neoantigens and cryptic peptides must be present within the tumor microenvironment.

Conclusion

These results prove that the analyzed CRC present both mutated neoantigenic and cryptic peptides on their HLA class I molecules. Moreover, stimulation with these peptides significantly strengthened tumor cell recognition by Tc. Since the overall number of neoantigenic peptides identifiable by HLA ligandome analysis hitherto is small, our data emphasize the relevance of increasing the target scope for cancer vaccines by the cryptic peptide category.
Patient-oriented risk score for predicting death 1 year after myocardial infarction: the SweDen risk score
Authors: Rylance Rebecca Tremain , Wagner Philippe , Olesen Kevin K W , Carlson Jonas , Alfredsson Joakim , Jernberg Tomas , Leosdottir Margret , Johansson Pelle , Vasko Peter , Maeng Michael , Mohammed Moman Aladdin , Erlinge David
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Our aim was to derive, based on the SWEDEHEART registry, and validate, using the Western Denmark Heart registry, a patient-oriented risk score, the SweDen score, which could calculate the risk of 1-year mortality following a myocardial infarction (MI).

Methods

The factors included in the SweDen score were age, sex, smoking, diabetes, heart failure and statin use. These were chosen a priori by the SWEDEHEART steering group based on the premise that the factors were information known by the patients themselves. The score was evaluated using various statistical methods such as time-dependent receiver operating characteristics curves of the linear predictor, area under the curve metrics, Kaplan-Meier survivor curves and the calibration slope.

Results

The area under the curve values were 0.81 in the derivation data and 0.76 in the validation data. The Kaplan-Meier curves showed similar patient profiles across datasets. The calibration slope was 1.03 (95% CI 0.99 to 1.08) in the validation data using the linear predictor from the derivation data.

Conclusions

The SweDen risk score is a novel tool created for patient use. The risk score calculator will be available online and presents mortality risk on a colour scale to simplify interpretation and to avoid exact life span expectancies. It provides a validated patient-oriented risk score predicting the risk of death within 1 year after suffering an MI, which visualises the benefit of statin use and smoking cessation in a simple way.
Clusters of lifestyle behaviors associated with atherosclerosis risk factors in children and adolescents with congenital heart disease: Floripa CHild Study
Authors: Honicky Michele , Cardoso Silvia M. , de Lima Luiz R.A. , Silva Diego A.S. , de Lima Tiago R. , Back Isabela de C. , Moreno Yara M.F.
Published: December 2022

Secondary cardiovascular disease is the main cause of mortality in congenital heart disease (CHD) patients. The cardiovascular risk could be widely prevented with adherence to a healthy lifestyle; however, clusters of lifestyle behaviors related to atherosclerosis risk factors in children and adolescents with CHD remain unclear. We aimed to describe the clusters of lifestyle behaviors of children and adolescents with CHD and to evaluate their association with atherosclerosis risk factors. We conducted a cross-sectional study on 227 children and adolescents with CHD (median age:10.02 [IQR:7.08–13.02] years). Dietary intake, physical activity (PA), and sedentary behavior (SB) were evaluated. Clusters of lifestyle behaviors were determined using a two-step cluster analysis. Atherosclerosis risk factors evaluated include body fat mass, central obesity, blood pressure, lipid parameters, glucose, C-reactive protein, and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT). Multiple logistic regressions were used. The “unhealthy: high SB + low PA” cluster was associated with elevated body fat mass, central obesity, and elevated cIMT. Furthermore, the “unhealthy: low PA + unhealthy eating habits” cluster was associated with elevated body fat mass, central obesity, and elevated glucose. The unhealthier lifestyle behavior clusters were associated with atherosclerosis risk factors in children and adolescents with CHD. Multidisciplinary strategies to promote healthy behaviors are needed to prevent cardiovascular disease in later life.
Wormholes, killing horizons and naked singularities: light surfaces in axially symmetric spacetimes
Authors: Pugliese D. , Quevedo H.
Published: December 2022

We study several classes of exterior and interior axially symmetric spacetimes, such as wormholes, accelerating black holes, and binary black hole systems, from the point of view of light surfaces related to the generators of Killing horizons. We show that light surfaces constitute a useful framework for the study of the more diverse axially symmetric geometries. In particular, we point out the existence of common properties of the light surfaces in different spacetimes. We introduce a deformation of the Kerr–Newman metric and apply the light surfaces framework to analyze several generalizations in a compact form. As particular examples, we analyze static and spinning wormhole solutions, black holes immersed in external (perfect fluid) dark matter, spacetimes with (Taub) NUT charge, acceleration, magnetic charge, and cosmological constant, binary Reissner–Nordström black holes, a solution of a (low-energy effective) heterotic string theory, and the $$(1+2)$$

(
1
+
2
)

dimensional BTZ geometry.
Geodesic motion in Euclidean Schwarzschild geometry
Authors: Battista Emmanuele , Esposito Giampiero
Published: December 2022

This paper performs a systematic investigation of geodesic motion in Euclidean Schwarzschild geometry, which is studied in the equatorial plane. The explicit form of geodesic motion is obtained in terms of incomplete elliptic integrals of first, second and third kind. No elliptic-like orbits exist in Euclidean Schwarzschild geometry, unlike the corresponding Lorentzian pattern. Among unbounded orbits, only unbounded first-kind orbits are allowed, unlike general relativity where unbounded second-kind orbits are always allowed.
A comparative numerical study of a semi-infinite heat conductor subject to double strip heating under non-Fourier models
Authors: Awad Emad , Fayik Mohsen , El-Dhaba Amr R.
Published: December 2022

The present work considers a two-dimensional (2D) heat conduction problem in the semi-infinite domain based on the classical Fourier model and other non-Fourier models, e.g., the Maxwell–Cattaneo–Vernotte (MCV) equation, parabolic, hyperbolic, and modified hyperbolic dual-phase-lag (DPL) equations. Using the integral transform technique, Laplace, and Fourier transforms, we provide a solution of the problem (Green’s function) in Laplace domain. The thermal double-strip problem, allowing the wave interference within the heat conductor, is considered. A numerical technique, based on the Durbin series for inverting Laplace transform and the trapezoidal rule for calculating an integral form of the solution in the double-strip case, is adopted to recover the solution in the physical domain. Finally, discussions for different non-Fourier heat transfer situations are presented. We compare among the speeds of hyperbolic heat transfer models and shed light on the concepts of flux-precedence and temperature-gradient-precedence, hallmarks of the lagging response idea. Otherwise, we emphasize the existence of a relationship between the waves speed and the time instant of interference onset, underlying the five employed heat transfer models.