bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Use of Next-Generation Sequencing in a State-Wide Strategy of HIV-1 Surveillance: Impact of the SARS-COV-2 Pandemic on HIV-1 Diagnosis and Transmission
Authors: Zhou Shuntai , Long Nathan , Moeser Matt , Hill Collin S , Samoff Erika , Mobley Victoria , Frost Simon , Bayer Cara , Kelly Elizabeth , Greifinger Annalea , Shone Scott , Glover William , Clark Michael , Eron Joseph , Cohen Myron , Swanstrom Ronald , Dennis Ann M 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Background
The ongoing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic posed an unpreceded threat to the management of other pandemics such as human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) in the United States. The full impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on the HIV-1 pandemic needs to be evaluated.

Methods
All individuals with newly reported HIV-1 diagnoses from NC State Laboratory of Public Health were enrolled in this prospective observational study, 2018–2021. We used a sequencing-based recency assay to identify recent HIV-1 infections and to determine the days postinfection (DPI) for each person at the time of diagnosis.

Results
Sequencing used diagnostic serum samples from 814 individuals with new HIV-1 diagnoses spanning this 4-year period. Characteristics of individuals diagnosed in 2020 differed from those in other years. People of color diagnosed in 2021 were on average 6 months delayed in their diagnosis compared to those diagnosed in 2020. There was a trend that genetic networks were more known for individuals diagnosed in 2021. We observed no major integrase resistance mutations over the course of the study.

Conclusions
SARS-CoV-2 pandemic may contribute to the spread of HIV-1. Public health resources need to focus on restoring HIV-1 testing and interrupting active, ongoing, transmission.
Half-life Estimation of Pertussis-Specific Maternal Antibodies in (Pre)Term Infants After In-Pregnancy Tetanus, Diphtheria, Acellular Pertussis Vaccination
Authors: Embacher Stefan , Maertens Kirsten , Herzog Sereina A 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Background
To reduce the risk of pertussis-related morbidity and mortality in early life, an increasing number of countries recommend maternal pertussis vaccination. However, there is limited knowledge about half-lives of vaccine-induced pertussis-specific maternal antibodies, especially in preterm infants, and factors potentially influencing them.

Methods
We compared 2 different approaches to provide estimates of the half-lives of pertussis-specific maternal antibodies in infants and explored potential effects on the half-life in 2 studies. In the first approach, we estimated the half-lives per child and used these estimates as responses in linear models. In the second approach, we used linear mixed effect models on a log2 transformed scale of the longitudinal data to use the inverse of the time parameter as an estimate for the half-lives.

Results
Both approaches provided similar results. The identified covariates partly explain differences in half-life estimates. The strongest evidence we observed was a difference between term and preterm infants, with the preterm infants showing a longer half-life. Among others, a longer interval between vaccination and delivery increases the half-life.

Conclusions
Several variables influence the decay speed of maternal antibodies. Both approaches have advantages and disadvantages, while the choice is secondary when assessing the half-life of pertussis-specific antibodies.

Clinical Trials Registration
NCT02408926 and NCT02511327.
Cotreatment With Clofazimine and Rapamycin Eliminates Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis by Inducing Polyfunctional Central Memory T-Cell Responses
Authors: Singh Dhiraj Kumar , Bhaskar Ashima , Pahuja Isha , Shaji Aishwarya , Moitra Barnani , Shi Yufang , Dwivedi Ved Prakash , Das Gobardhan 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis, is acquiring drug resistance at a faster rate than the discovery of new antibiotics. Therefore, alternate therapies that can limit the drug resistance and disease recurrence are urgently needed. Emerging evidence indicates that combined treatment with antibiotics and an immunomodulator provides superior treatment efficacy. Clofazimine (CFZ) enhances the generation of T central memory (TCM) cells by blocking the Kv1.3+ potassium channels. Rapamycin (RAPA) facilitates M. tuberculosis clearance by inducing autophagy. In this study, we observed that cotreatment with CFZ and RAPA potently eliminates both multiple and extensively drug-resistant (MDR and XDR) clinical isolates of M. tuberculosis in a mouse model by inducing robust T-cell memory and polyfunctional TCM responses. Furthermore, cotreatment reduces the expression of latency-associated genes of M. tuberculosis in human macrophages. Therefore, CFZ and RAPA cotherapy holds promise for treating patients infected with MDR and XDR strains of M. tuberculosis.
Machine learning-based detection of transportation infrastructure internal defects using ground-penetrating radar: a state-of-the-art review
Authors: Sui Xin , Leng Zhen , Wang Siqi 
Published: June 2023

AbstractEarly detection of internal defects is crucial to ensure the long-term performance and stability of transportation infrastructure. Researchers and practitioners have developed various nondestructive testing (NDT) methods for this purpose. Among them, the ground-penetrating radar (GPR) technique has been widely implemented due to its advantages such as large coverage, traffic-speed survey, and rich subsurface information. In addition, machine learning (ML) algorithms have been frequently applied to achieve automatic GPR data interpretations, which are essential for field applications. However, the fundamental concepts, architectures, and appropriate application scenarios of these algorithms are often questionable to practitioners and researchers. This paper presents a state-of-the-art review of ML applications in the internal defect detection of transportation infrastructure using GPR. In particular, pavements and bridges are covered. The basic knowledge of GPR working principles and ML algorithms is documented. The critical features of the ML algorithms for each detection task are presented. The drawbacks that may hinder the application of ML algorithms using GPR are indicated, including the insufficiency of labeled GPR data, unavailability of GPR dataset, customized ML architecture, and field validation. Finally, possible transfer learning, integrated robotic platform, and data fusion with other NDT methods are discussed. This review paper is expected to serve as a reference for practitioners to choose appropriate ML algorithms to detect internal defects in transportation infrastructure using GPR.
Performative Activism Redeemed
Authors: Ventzislavov Rossen 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Over the last century, performance art has troubled the worlds of art and of philosophical aesthetics, unleashing modes of creativity and criticality that spill outside the customary boundaries of either. One of these modes is that of political activism. Performance art is genetically related to activism due to the shared historical contexts their respective waves have emerged from and responded to. In my article, I make the claim that the relationship between performance art and activism also has much to do with certain significant structural and methodological overlaps between the two. I explore these overlaps against the backdrop of extant philosophical scholarship on performativity, a selection of art historical examples, and a critique of the charge of “performative activism” that has become popular in the last decade. I see the tension between the figurative meaning of the phrase “performative activism” and its literal application to politically charged performance art as a space of philosophical opportunity. A better understanding of performance art and its political import can not only help clear up laypeople’s misconceptions of performativity, but it can also strengthen philosophy’s own position on the subject.
Residue Lys219 of CpxR is critical in the regulation of the antibiotic resistance of Escherichia coli
Authors: Lei Dan , Cao Linlin , Zhong Tairan , He Qing-Yu , Sun Xuesong 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Background
CpxR is a critical regulator in bacterial adaptation to various harmful stresses, and is known to regulate bacterial resistance to commonly used antibiotics, such as aminoglycosides, β-lactams and polypeptides. However, the detailed study of functional residues of CpxR remains insufficient.

Objectives
To investigate the contribution of Lys219 to CpxR’s function in regulating antibiotic resistance of Escherichia coli.

Methods
We performed sequence alignment and conservative analysis of the CpxR protein and constructed mutant strains. We then performed electrophoretic mobility shift assay, real-time quantitative PCR assay, determination of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, molecular dynamics simulation, conformational analysis and circular dichroism.

Results
All mutant proteins (K219Q, K219A and K219R) lost the cpxP DNA-binding ability. Additionally, the three complemented strains eK219A, eK219Q, and eK219R exhibited lower resistance to copper toxicity and alkaline pH toxicity than eWT. Molecular dynamics analysis revealed that mutation of Lys219 leads to looser and more unstable conformation of CpxR, leading to its decreased binding affinity with downstream genes. Moreover, the Lys219 mutation resulted in the down-regulation of efflux pump genes (acrD, tolC, mdtB and mdtA), leading to the accumulation of antibiotics inside the cells and an increase in ROS production, which significantly reduces antibiotic resistance.

Conclusions
The mutation of the key residue Lys219 causes a conformational change that results in the loss of regulatory ability of CpxR, which may potentially reduce to antibiotic resistance. Therefore, this study suggests that targeting the highly conserved sequence of CpxR could be a promising strategy for the development of new antibacterial drugs.
Utilization of Chemometric-Aided UV Spectrophotometric Methods for Concurrent Assessment of Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate, Elvitegravir, and Cobicistat in Tablet Formulation
Authors: Singh Veena Devi , Singh Vijay Kumar , Daharwal Sanjay J 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Background
Emtricitabine (ETC), tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TNF), elvitegravir (EVG), and cobicistat (CBS) are antiviral drugs used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections.

Objective
To develop chemometric-aided UV spectrophotometric methods for concurrent estimation of the aforementioned drugs used to treat HIV. This method can be used to reduce modification of the calibration model by assessing the absorbance at various points in the zero-order spectra within the selected wavelength range. Additionally, it eliminates interfering signals and provides sufficient resolution in multi-component systems.

Methods
Two chemometric-assisted UV spectrophotometric methods, namely, partial least-squares (PLS) and principal component regression (PCR) models, were established for the concurrent assessment of EVG, CBS, TNF, and ETC in tablet formulations. The proposed methods were applied to decrease complexity of overlapped spectra and to achieve maximum sensitivity and the lowest error. These approaches were performed in accordance with International Council on Harmonization (ICH) criteria and compared to the reported HPLC method.

Results
The proposed methods were used to assess EVG, CBS, TNF, and ETC in the ranges of 5–30, 5–30 , 5–50, and 5–50 µg/mL, respectively, with an excellent correlation coefficient (r2 ≥ 0.998). The accuracy and precision results were found to be within the acceptable limits. No statistical difference was observed between the proposed and reported studies.

Conclusion
The chemometric-aided UV spectrophotometric approaches could be considered as alternatives to chromatographic procedures in the pharmaceutical industry for routine analysis and testing of readily accessible commercial formulations.

Highlights
Novel chemometric-assisted UV spectrophotometric techniques were developed for assessment of multicomponent antiviral combinations in single-tablet formulations. The proposed methods were performed without using harmful solvents, tedious preparation, or expensive instruments. The proposed methods were compared statistically with a reported HPLC method. Assessment of EVG, CBS, TNF, and ETC was performed without interference from excipients in their multicomponent formulations.
Clinical perspectives of rare ovarian tumors: clear cell ovarian cancer
Authors: Fujiwara Satoe 
Published: June 2023

AbstractOvarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) is a rare and distinct histological type of epithelial ovarian carcinoma in terms of its histopathological, clinical and genetic features. Patients with OCCC are younger and diagnosed at earlier stages than those with the most common histological type—high-grade serous carcinoma. Endometriosis is considered a direct precursor of OCCC. Based on preclinical data, the most frequent gene alternations in OCCC are mutations of AT-rich interaction domain 1A and phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha. The prognosis of patients with early-stage OCCC is favorable, whereas patients at an advanced stage or who have the recurrent disease have a dismal prognosis due to OCCC’s resistance to standard platinum-based chemotherapy. Despite a lower rate of response due to its resistance to standard platinum-based chemotherapy, the treatment strategy for OCCC resembles that of high-grade serous carcinoma, which includes aggressive cytoreductive surgery and adjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy. Alternative treatment strategies, including biological agents based on molecular characteristics specific to OCCC, are urgently needed. Furthermore, due to its rarity, well-designed collaborative international clinical trials are needed to improve oncologic outcomes and the quality of life in patients with OCCC.
Merkel cell carcinoma: a review of clinical management with focus on Asian patients
Authors: Nakano Eiji , Ogata Dai , Namikawa Kenjiro , Yamazaki Naoya 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma is a highly aggressive skin cancer characterized by neuroendocrine differentiation. This review aimed to present updates on the knowledge and current trends of clinical management of Merkel cell carcinoma. Additionally, we focused on Asian reports of Merkel cell carcinoma because most skin cancers differ substantially between Caucasians and Asians, and researchers have reported differences in Merkel cell carcinoma in racial and ethnic groups. Owing to its rarity, there is limited evidence for the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and Merkel cell carcinoma treatment. The development of a nationwide survey or cancer registry, the identification of Merkel cell polyomavirus and the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors allowed a better understanding of its characteristics and biology and have revolutionized the clinical management of patients with Merkel cell carcinoma. Its incidence has gradually increased worldwide; however, it depends on the geographic location, race and ethnicity. No randomized prospective studies have evaluated the significance of sentinel lymph node biopsy, complete lymph node dissection and adjuvant radiation therapy; however, most patients with localized Merkel cell carcinoma are treated surgically or with post-operative radiation. Patients with distant Merkel cell carcinoma are administered immune checkpoint inhibitors as the first-line therapy; however, there is no established second-line therapy for refractory Merkel cell carcinoma. Furthermore, it is necessary to validate the favorable results of clinical studies performed in Western countries in the patients in Asia.
Ectogestation and the Good Samaritan Argument
Authors: Stratman Christopher 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Philosophical discussions concerning ectogestation are trending. And given that the Supreme Court of the United States overturned Roe v. Wade (1973) and Casey v. Planned Parenthood (1992), questions regarding the moral and legal status of abortion in light of the advent of ectogestation will likely continue to be of central importance in the coming years. If ectogestation can intersect with or even determine abortion policy in the future, then a new philosophical analysis of the legal status of abortion is both warranted and urgently needed. I argue that, even if there is no ‘moral’ right to fetal destruction once ectogestation becomes a reality, societies ought not to implement legal prohibitions on a pregnant person’s ability to safely obtain an abortion that results in fetal death because such laws are systemically misogynistic.
Insights into the roles of IL-10–producing regulatory B cells in cardiovascular disorders: recent advances and future perspectives
Authors: Zheng Huiqin , Cao Pei , Su Zhaoliang , Xia Lin 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Interleukin-10–producing regulatory B (B10) cells mediate the immunomodulatory functions of biosystems by secreting anti-inflammatory factors, thus playing vital roles in cardiovascular diseases such as viral myocarditis, myocardial infarction, and ischemia-reperfusion injury. However, several challenges hinder B10 cells from regulating the immunoreactivity of organisms in specific cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerotic disease. Regarding the regulatory mechanisms of B10 cells, the interplay between B10 cells and the cardiovascular and immune systems is complex and requires clarification. In this study, we summarize the roles of B10 cells in bacterial and aseptic heart injuries, address their regulatory functions in different stages of cardiovascular disorders, and discuss their challenges and opportunities in addressing cardiovascular diseases from bench to bedside.
Genetic variants, neurocognitive outcomes, and functional neuroimaging in survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Gandy Kellen , Sapkota Yadav , Scoggins Matthew A , Jacola Lisa M , Koscik Timothy R , Hudson Melissa M , Pui Ching-Hon , Krull Kevin R , van der Plas Ellen 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Background
Genetic predispositions may modulate risk for developing neurocognitive late effects in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) survivors.

Methods
Long-term ALL survivors (n = 212; mean = 14.3 [SD = 4.77] years; 49% female) treated with chemotherapy completed neurocognitive testing and task-based functional neuroimaging. Based on previous work from our team, genetic variants related to the folate pathway, glucocorticoid regulation, drug metabolism, oxidative stress, and attention were included as predictors of neurocognitive performance, using multivariable models adjusted for age, race, and sex. Subsequent analyses evaluated the impact of these variants on task-based functional neuroimaging. Statistical tests were 2-sided.

Results
Survivors exhibited higher rates of impaired attention (20.8%), motor skills (42.2%), visuo-spatial memory (49.3%-58.3%), processing speed (20.1%), and executive function (24.3%-26.1%) relative to population norms (10%; P &lt; .001). Genetic variants implicated in attention deficit phenotypes predicted impaired attention span (synaptosome associated protein 25, F(2,172) = 4.07, P = .019) and motor skills (monoamine oxidase A, F(2,125) = 5.25, P = .007). Visuo-spatial memory and processing speed varied as a function of genetic variants in the folate pathway (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase [MTHFRrs1801133], F(2,165) = 3.48, P = .033; methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 1 [MTHFD1rs2236225], F(2,135) = 3.8, P = .025; respectively). Executive function performance was modulated by genetic variants in the folate pathway (MTHFD1rs2236225, F(2,158) = 3.95, P = .021; MTHFD1rs1950902, F(2,154) = 5.55, P = .005) and glucocorticoid regulation (vitamin D receptor, F(2,158) = 3.29, P = .039; FKBP prolyl isomerase 5, F(2,154) = 5.6, P = .005). Additionally, MTHFD1rs2236225 and FKBP prolyl isomerase 5 were associated with altered brain function during attention and working memory (P &lt; .05; family wise error corrected).

Conclusions
Results extend previous findings of genetic risk of neurocognitive impairment following ALL therapy and highlight the importance of examining genetic modulators in relation to neurocognitive deficits.
Media stereotypes, prejudice, and preference-based reinforcement: toward the dynamic of self-reinforcing effects by integrating audience selectivity
Authors: Arendt Florian 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
The media portray various social groups stereotypically, and studying the effects of these portrayals on prejudice is paramount. Yet, audience selectivity—inherent within today’s high-choice media environments—has largely been disregarded. Relatedly, the predominance of forced-exposure designs is a source of concern. This article proposes the integration of audience selectivity into media stereotype effects research. Study 1 (N = 1,166) indicated that prejudiced individuals tended to approach prejudice-consistent stereotypical news and avoid prejudice-challenging counter-stereotypical news. Using a forced-exposure experiment, study 2 (N = 380) showed detrimental effects of prejudice-consistent news and beneficial effects of prejudice-challenging news. Relying on a self-selected exposure paradigm, study 3 (N = 1,149) provided evidence for preference-based reinforcement. Study 4’s “net-effect perspective” (N = 937) indicated that operationalizing exposure as forced or self-selected can lead to different interpretations of actual societal effects. The findings emphasize the key role played by audience selectivity when studying media effects.
Parenting Interventions Targeting Behavior for Children Born Preterm or Low Birth Weight: A Systematic Review
Authors: Patronick Jamie , Glazer Sandra , Sidol Craig , Parikh Nehal A , Wade Shari L 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Objective
To systematically review and summarize the outcomes of parenting interventions designed to improve child and/or parenting behavior for children born preterm and/or low birth weight (LBW).

Methods
We conducted systematic searches of Embase, Scopus, PubMed, PsycInfo, and CINAHL in September 2021. We identified articles published at any time that describe the outcomes of parenting interventions targeting the child and/or parenting behavior of children born preterm/LBW and their caregivers. Two independent raters assessed the risk of bias using the Revised Cochrane Risk-of-Bias Tool.

Results
Eight hundred sixteen titles and abstracts were screened, followed by 71 full-text articles, resulting in 24 eligible articles reporting on nine interventions with 1,676 participants. Eligible articles had an adequate risk of bias ratings. Sample characteristics, intervention components, and intervention effects were tabulated and described narratively by the intervention type. Preventative and treatment programs demonstrated positive intervention effects on externalizing behavior, parenting stress, and parenting behaviors, with mixed effects on internalizing behavior and emotion regulation. The few studies with longitudinal follow-up found little evidence of effects beyond 6 months postintervention.

Conclusion
Behavior problems in children born preterm/LBW may be modifiable, and interventions targeting parenting behavior are promising. However, existing interventions may not produce long-lasting changes and are not designed for children older than four. Existing treatment programs may require adaptation for the neurocognitive, medical, and family needs of children born preterm/LBW (e.g., processing speed deficits, post-traumatic stress). Interventions that account for theories of sustained change may promote long-term effectiveness and the developmental tailoring of parenting skills.