bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental study on the mechanical characteristics of NPR anchored rock under kilometer-deep buried high geostress conditions
Authors: Miao Chengyu , Wang Lei , Cui Li , Jiang Ming , Sun Xiaoming , Liu Shuo
Published: July 2024

In this paper, a biaxial compression experimental study of NPR (negative Poisson’s ratio) and PR (Poisson’s ratio) anchored rock under different burial depth conditions was conducted around a new type of constant resistance large deformation anchor cable, also known as NPR anchor cable. A comparative analysis was performed on mechanical characteristics of the two types of anchored rock. Furthermore, a concept of static toughness for anchored rock was established to evaluate the comprehensive mechanical performance. The results indicate that with increasing confining pressure, the elastic modulus of both types of anchored rock exhibits a gradual increase. The peak strength and residual strength initially decrease and then increase. The NPR anchored rock has higher elastic modulus, peak strength, and residual strength compared to PR, with increases of 17.5%, 26%, and 25%, respectively. As the confining pressure increases, the fine and short shear cracks within the lateral surfaces of the two types of anchored rock transform into wider and longer cracks. The final integrity of the NPR anchored rock is demonstrably superior to that of the PR. Compared to PR, the cumulative energy, cumulative count, and energy value per unit count of the NPR anchored rock throughout the experiment are significantly lower values. A calculated analysis revealed that the static toughness of the NPR anchored rock is considerably greater than that of PR.
Determinants of road user behavior at marked midblock crosswalks
Authors: Elsayyad Mohamed , Muley Deepti , Alhajyaseen Wael
Published: July 2024

Drivers do not properly respect pedestrian priority at marked mid-block crosswalks. This study assesses pedestrians and vehicles behavior at such locations. Video recording at two mid-block crosswalks was used to analyze 12 crossing attributes and their correlations. Analysis of 884 pedestrians’ and 2087 vehicle’s data showed that all demographic and crossing related attributes affected the crossing speed and crossing time of pedestrians. The average crossing speed of pedestrians was 1.3 m/s. Only parked car at crosswalk affected the waiting and delay times of pedestrians. Lastly, gender and crossing related parameters were found to affect the accepted gap of pedestrians. The average accepted gap of pedestrians was 6.17 s. Vehicle speeds before, at, and after crosswalks were statistically different and had mean values of 19.38, 17.31, and 20.40 kmph, respectively. Driver yielding rate was found to be 40% and was statistically significantly influenced by gender, dressing style, crossing in-group, and rolling behavior.
Review of the water–energy–carbon nexus in small and medium drinking water systems: challenges and opportunities
Authors: Sarmiento Barrios Michelle Sofia , Haider Husnain , Chhipi-Shrestha Gyan Kumar , Kaur Manjot , Hewage Kasun , Sadiq Rehan
Published: July 2024

Water is a critical resource for human life and plays a vital role in energy production. Energy is equally essential in water supplies but generates carbon emissions to the atmosphere depending on the energy source. Appraising water, energy, and carbon nexus is essential for promoting sustainable drinking water systems (DWSs) in the case of small- and medium-sized utilities, representing a significant portion of the water supply in many countries. Smaller utilities face unique challenges, such as insufficient funding, aging infrastructure, and higher operational costs. This paper examines over 100 studies to identify and comprehensively understand how source type and location, raw water quality, water consumption patterns, system size, land use, population density, topography, infrastructure age, and system losses and maintenance impact energy consumption in small and medium DWSs. The review also identified more than 40 indicators related to energy and carbon from the literature, providing advanced information in this area. Findings suggest a gap in understanding how energy and carbon indicators relate to the utility's operational performance. By analyzing the challenges and opportunities smaller utilities face in optimizing water, energy, and carbon nexus, this paper highlights the necessity of shifting towards cleaner energy sources to mitigate the environmental impacts. It also emphasizes the importance of adopting a holistic approach that integrates technological advancements, regulatory guidelines, and active community engagement to achieve decarbonization in DWSs. The present study aims to inform policymakers, water management professionals, and broader stakeholders about the essential components of sustainable and resilient small and medium DWSs.
Classical density functional theory: The local density approximation
Authors: Jex Michal , Lewin Mathieu , Madsen Peter S.
Published: July 2024

We prove that the lowest free energy of a classical interacting system at temperature [Formula: see text] with a prescribed density profile [Formula: see text] can be approximated by the local free energy [Formula: see text], provided that [Formula: see text] varies slowly over sufficiently large length scales. A quantitative error on the difference is provided in terms of the gradient of the density. Here [Formula: see text] is the free energy per unit volume of an infinite homogeneous gas of the corresponding uniform density. The proof uses quantitative Ruelle bounds (estimates on the local number of particles in a large system), which are derived in an appendix.
On partial transposes of unitarily invariant random matrices
Authors: Mingo James A. , Popa Mihai
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we compute the limit distribution of partial transposes (when both the number and the size of blocks tends to infinity) for a large class of ensembles of unitarily invariant random matrices. Furthermore, the asymptotic freeness relation between the ensembles of random matrices, their transposes and their left and right partial transposes is shown.
ON MURRAY LAW FOR OPTIMAL BRANCHING RATIO
Authors: ZUO YU-TING
Published: July 2024

Tree-like branching networks are widespread in nature and have found wide applications in engineering, where Murray’s law is generally adopted to optimally design tree-like systems, but it may become invalid in some cases. Here we give an energy approach to the analysis of the law and re-find Li–Yu’s law for the optimal ratio of the square root of 2 with a suitable constraint. When the cross-section of each branch is considered as a fractal pattern, a modified Murray’s law is obtained, which includes the original Murray’s law for a Peano-like pore and Li–Yu’s law for cylindrical branches, furthermore a useful relationship between the diameter and length of each hierarchy is obtained, which is contrary to the tree-like fractal patterns, and the new hierarchy is named as “fractal Murray tree”, which also has many potential applications in science, engineering, social science and economics. This paper is intended to serve as a foundation for further research into the fractal Murray tree and its applications in various fields.
WEIGHTED AVERAGE DISTANCE OF THE SELF-SIMILAR CORAL FRACTAL
Authors: LI YUANYUAN , TU LIHUI
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we construct a family of self-similar networks, named Coral networks, whose Iterated Function System (IFS) contains a rotation transformation. Using self-similarity, we obtain the weighted average geodesic distance of Coral fractal and networks.
On a subtrigonometric series solution for the scaling-law wave motion for the special vibrating string
Authors: Yang Xiao-Jun , Alsolami Abdulrahman Ali
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we propose the subtrigonometric series solution for the equation of the scaling-law wave motion to describe the special vibrating string associated with the Mandelbrot scaling law.
On pseudo-𝒦-symmetric semi-Riemannian manifolds and relativistic applications
Authors: De Uday Chand , Turki Nasser Bin , Syied Abdallah Abdelhameed
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we present a novel curvature tensor called the [Formula: see text]-curvature tensor, which is formed by combining the Weyl tensor and the [Formula: see text]-curvature tensor. It is proved that a semi-Riemannian manifold with traceless [Formula: see text]-curvature tensor is Einstein, while a [Formula: see text]-curvature flat semi-Riemannian manifold exhibits constant sectional curvature. We show that a space-time with traceless [Formula: see text]-curvature tensor or [Formula: see text]-curvature flat represents dark energy era. A semi-Riemannian manifold with divergence-free [Formula: see text]-curvature tensor is Weyl harmonic. In a space-time where the [Formula: see text]-curvature tensor is of divergence-free, both the isotropic pressure and energy density are constants. Under certain conditions, it is shown that a pseudo-[Formula: see text]-symmetric semi-Riemannian manifold reduces to a pseudo-Riemannian manifold. It is demonstrated that pseudo-[Formula: see text]-symmetric space-times can be regarded as generalized Robertson–Walker (GRW) space-times. Finally, a concrete example of pseudo-[Formula: see text]-symmetric semi-Riemannian manifolds is presented.
Dual magnetic curves and flux ruled surfaces
Authors: Çalışkan Abdussamet , Eren Kemal , Ersoy Soley
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we introduce the dual magnetic trajectories traced by the dual Frenet vectors of any dual curves in dual space via the dual Lorentz force, and then we give the characterizations of dual magnetic curves. Moreover, we define the dual flux ruled surfaces corresponding to the Killing vectors on the dual unit sphere and identify the conditions for these surfaces to be minimal or developable. Additionally, we present certain characterizations related to these surfaces. We demonstrate the visual representations of some dual flux ruled surfaces in some examples.
Geochemical evidence for a chondritic impactor in altered impact glass from the Stac Fada Member impactite, NW Scotland
Authors: Goodwin A. , Garwood R. J. , Tartèse R.
Published: July 2024

The Stac Fada Member (Stoer Group) is a ∼1.2 Ga melt-rich impact breccia whose source crater and, therefore, proximity remains debated. We present a detailed
in situ
geochemical dataset for altered impact melt clasts within Stac Fada samples from Bay of Stoer and Second Coast. These altered impact melt clasts are now predominantly composed of clinochlore. Geothermometry of this clinochlore indicates formation temperatures within the ejecta blanket at 188–231°C, in agreement with previous estimates. A positive correlation between platinum group elements Ir, Pt and Rh – apparently independent of Ni – indicates two geochemical sources for platinum group elements enrichment. We propose that these represent an Mg–Ni-rich chondritic impactor and a mafic/ultramafic-layered body within the target lithology. Spatial variation in Ni content suggests that geochemical data, in combination with field observations, may be instrumental in assessing the likely location of the impact crater.
State of Charge Estimation Method of Energy Storage Battery Based on Multiple Incremental Features
Authors: Chen Zhilong , He Ting , Mao Yingzhe , Zhu Wenlong , Xiong Yifeng , Wang Shen , Zeng Jianhua , Xu Quan , Niu Yingchun
Published: July 2024

Accurately estimating the state of charge (SOC) is crucial for energy storage battery management systems as it ensures battery performance and extends lifespan. However, existing deep learning-based methods often overlook the dynamic process information during battery charging and discharging, which compromises the accuracy of SOC estimation. To address this limitation, this paper proposes a novel SOC estimation method. First, we employ differential processing on the collected voltage, current, and temperature data to capture dynamic feature changes. Next, all features are normalized to ensure they are on the same scale. Finally, the processed data is divided into sliding windows and input into the TCN-BiLSTM-Attention Net (TBANet) model for SOC estimation. The results show that compared with traditional deep learning based SOC estimation methods, adding incremental features to TBANet improves the estimation accuracy by 15.8%. The average absolute error and root mean square error of the experimental results are 0.72% and 0.91%, respectively. In addition, this approach adopts transfer learning methods to verify the strong adaptability of the proposed method on different datasets, which highlights the robustness of TBANet and its potential for wide applicability in real-world scenarios.
The Effect of Liquid Saturation Transients on PEM Fuel Cell Impedance: Inductive Loop and Instability of Catalyst Layer Operation
Authors: Sun Ying , Kadyk Thomas , Kulikovsky Andrei , Eikerling Michael
Published: July 2024

We report a physics–based model for the electrochemical impedance of a PEM fuel cell cathode. The model takes into account the transient behavior of oxygen and proton transport in the cathode catalyst layer caused by a variation of the liquid saturation with cell current. Transients of the catalyst layer oxygen diffusivity result in a second capacitive arc in the Nyquist spectrum, while proton conductivity transients lead to the formation of an inductive loop. In the range of capillary pressures in which the liquid saturation in the catalyst layer is independent of the capillary pressures, the loop does not form. A stability analysis of a reduced system of equations reveals that the static limit of inductive loop is unstable with respect to spatial perturbations, implying that the post–oscillatory steady state is unattainable. Possible scenarios of instability development are discussed.
The Generalized Hermite Spectral Method Combined with Laplace Transform for Solution of the Time Fractional Fokker–Planck Equation
Authors: Yang Lu-feng
Published: July 2024

The paper proposes a method to solve the time fractional Fokker–Planck equation using the generalized Hermite spectral method and Laplace transform. By the Laplace transform, the ordinary differential equation about the orthogonal expansion coefficient is transformed into a linear algebraic equation system, with the coefficient matrix being a tridiagonal lower triangular matrix. The orthogonal expansion coefficients of frequency domain components are obtained through this transformation. The approximate solution at any time is then obtained by using the numerical inverse Laplace transform with the Talbot algorithm. Numerical experiments have been carried out to demonstrate the high accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method.
Influences of Graphene Oxide on Mechanical Properties and Mesoscopic Deformation and Failure Process of Concrete
Authors: Gong Hong , Yin Xiangxiang , Zhang Yi , Wang Wei , Chen Zongjie
Published: July 2024

In this research, graphene oxide (GO) was integrated into concrete to assess its effectiveness as an additive. Triaxial compression permeability experiments, variable‐angle (30°, 45°, and 60°) shear experiments, and dynamic compression experiments were conducted on graphene oxide concrete (GOC) and normal concrete (NC). The Holmquist–Johnson–Cook model and LS‐DYNA software were utilized to simulate the mesoscopic failure of NC and GOC under impact loading. The mechanism of GO was examined through scanning electron microscope (SEM) microscopic scanning and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) energy spectrum testing. The findings demonstrate that the contain of GO significantly enhances the destruction resistance of concrete under triaxial compression. The permeability of both NC and GOC exhibits a negative exponential decrease with increasing confining pressure, and carbon fiber reduces concrete permeability by 17.79%–60.9%. Compared to NC, the cohesion and internal friction angle of GOC increased by 7.80% and 8.55%, respectively. GO also improves energy conversion and storage capacity during the elastic stage of concrete, reducing inelastic energy loss during shear processes. Although, both NC and GOC exhibit strain rate sensitivity, the DIF value of GOC surpasses that of NC and the disparity between the two intensifies with increasing impact pressure. Simulation results indicate that the number of crushing units in GOC is significantly lower than in NC, maintaining integrity. Analysis of SEM microscopic test results reveals that the distribution of cement hydration products in NC is uniform, whereas in GOC, it displays regional characteristics, a phenomenon corroborated by EDS energy spectrum test results.
The Relationship between Physician and Nurses’ Burnout and Stress Levels and Healthy Lifestyle Behavior in the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Ozcoban Kardelen , Altunkurek Şeyma Zehra
Published: July 2024

Background. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the relationships between burnout among doctors and nurses and stress levels and healthy lifestyle behaviors during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Methods. The study was carried out as a cross‐sectional design. The sample consisted of 258 nurses and doctors working at Ankara University Faculty of Medicine Cebeci Research and Application Hospital. Data were collected between April and October 2021 using a sociodemographic form, the Burnout Measure Short Version (BMS), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale‐II (HLBS‐II). T tests, one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and post hoc (Tukey, LSD) analyses were used to analyze the descriptive characteristics and scale scores of the participants. Spearman’s correlation analysis was used to examine the relationships between scale scores and continuous data. Regression analysis was performed to define the reason and result relationship between the scales. Results. As a result of the correlation analysis, a positive, moderate relationship was found between the participants’ PSS total scores and BMS total scores (p < 0.05). There was a moderate and weak statistically significant relationship between the participants’ PSS and BMS total score average and HLBS‐II total score and subdimensions (p < 0.05). In addition, it was determined that there was a statistically significant and negative correlation between the participants’ PSS and BMS total score average and the HLBS‐II total score and subdimensions (p < 0.05). After the regression analysis, the relationship between the reason and the result among the total PSS, BMS, and HLBS‐II scores was found to be significant (p < 0.05). Conclusions. The results obtained from this study revealed that the rising burnout and stress levels of nurses and doctors during the pandemic decreased the level of healthy lifestyle behaviors and led them to use negative coping methods.
Performance of Genotype by Environmental Interaction and Stability of Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.) Genotypes in Vertisol Areas of Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Takele Emebet , Kefelegn Nigussie , Admasu Daniel , Anley Simegnew , Zikarge Worku , Mohammed Awol , Esmaiel Jemal
Published: July 2024

Faba beans are leguminous plants that have gained recognition for their significant contributions to sustainable agriculture and climate change mitigation. The experiment was conducted to assess the effect of genotype × environment interaction (GEI) on seed weight stability of faba bean genotypes using 12 genotypes in randomized complete block design with three replications tested at Enewari, Bichena, and Jamma in 2016, 2017, and 2018. The objective of the study is to determine the performance and stability of faba bean genotypes for large seed sizes and comparable seed yield under vertisol areas. The AMMI analyses revealed significant (p  < 0.01) differences between genotype and environmental effects as well as genotype‐by‐environment interaction concerning seed yield and seed weight. This indicates the genotypes differently responded to the changes in the test environment or the test environment differentially discriminated the genotypes or both. The analysis of variance for AMMI showed that environment, genotype, and GEI contributed 37%, 26.7%, and 30.4% for seed weight, respectively. The principal components (IPCA 1) and (IPCA 2) explained 54.46% and 20.5% of the interaction, respectively. G4 was identified for their best seed weight with an advantage of 19.9% and 28.1% over the best standard check Hachalu and Dide’a with comparable seed yield. Based on AMMI and ASV stability parameters among the evaluated faba bean genotypes, G4 (EH01078‐4‐3) was the most stable and widely adapted over the studied environments in terms of seed weight and relatively stable and comparable seed yield. Therefore, the identified genotypes G4 (Shewa) were released as new varieties for vertisol areas of the Amhara region and areas with similar agroecology in the country.
Supplementary Table S6 from The Effect of Exposure to Neighborhood Violence on Glucocorticoid Receptor Signaling in Lung Tumors
Authors: Heath Hannah , Yoo Jin Y. , Akter Sabrina , Jain Atharva , Sharma Vani , McGee Hannah , Soliman Aiman , Mahmoud Abeer M. , Matthews Alicia K. , Winn Robert A. , Madak-Erdogan Zeynep , Kim Sage J.
Published: July 2024

Pathway analysis results of cluster 6 genes from Supplementary Figure 4B.
Supplementary Figure S5 from The Effect of Exposure to Neighborhood Violence on Glucocorticoid Receptor Signaling in Lung Tumors
Authors: Heath Hannah , Yoo Jin Y. , Akter Sabrina , Jain Atharva , Sharma Vani , McGee Hannah , Soliman Aiman , Mahmoud Abeer M. , Matthews Alicia K. , Winn Robert A. , Madak-Erdogan Zeynep , Kim Sage J.
Published: July 2024

GR recruitment to chromatin in key genes within statistically significant pathway from Figure 3E.
Figure 2 from The Effect of Exposure to Neighborhood Violence on Glucocorticoid Receptor Signaling in Lung Tumors
Authors: Heath Hannah , Yoo Jin Y. , Akter Sabrina , Jain Atharva , Sharma Vani , McGee Hannah , Soliman Aiman , Mahmoud Abeer M. , Matthews Alicia K. , Winn Robert A. , Madak-Erdogan Zeynep , Kim Sage J.
Published: July 2024

Spatial genomics uncovers hotspots of transcriptomic changes associated with glucocorticoid receptor signaling. A, Visualization of spatial gene expression of key genes correlated with the neighborhood violent crime rate in representative tumor samples from high and low-violence neighborhoods. Spatial expression was visualized in Seurat. B, Hot spot analysis of key genes correlated with the violent crime rate in representative tumor samples from high and low-violence neighborhoods. Hotspots were identified using the univariate local Moran’s test. Darker colors denote a P-value of <0.01 and lighter colors indicate a P-value of <0.05. C, Pathway analysis of genes differentially expressed within P < 0.01 highest expression within the sample hotspots. Differential gene expression analysis was performed using FindMarkers in Seurat, and genes with a non-adjusted P-value of <0.05 were used for pathway analysis. Analysis of pathways with a P-value of <0.05 was performed in DAVID using Biocarta, Kegg, and Wikipathways analysis.
Sleep Apnea, Autonomic Disturbances, and Blood Pressure Variability
Authors: Tobushi Tomoyuki , Floras John S.
Published: July 2024

Augmented blood pressure variability has emerged as a quantity predictive of adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Among the range of intrinsic and extrinsic factors shown to increase night-time, circadian, short-term, and long-term blood pressure variations, the presence and severity of obstructive sleep apnea have emerged as one of the most prevalent and potent. Obstructive sleep apnea alters acutely the normal nocturnal equilibrium between sympathetic and parasympathetic tone, magnifying nocturnal blood pressure oscillations, and induces sustained autonomic aftereffects with the capacity to amplify short-term and intersessional blood pressure variabilities. The object of this brief review is to synthesize the current understanding of the potential interrelations between obstructive sleep apnea, the acute and sustained autonomic disturbances that it elicits, and beat-to-beat blood pressure fluctuation during sleep, nocturnal dipping status, and day-to-day blood pressure variability and the consequences of these perturbations for cardiovascular risk.
Age-related changes in individuals with and without reading disability: Behavioral and fMRI evidence
Authors: Yan Xiaohui , Feng Guoyan , Fu Yang , Hua Jia , Cao Fan
Published: July 2024

Reading disability (RD) is a developmental neurological disorder with high prevalence across languages; however, the developmental differences in the behavior and brain of individuals with RD remain poorly understood, especially in Chinese RD. In the current study, we aimed to differentiate persistent deficits in Chinese children and adults with RD, differences that are evident only in children but not adults with RD, and differences that are more severe in adults than children with RD. In a cross-sectional design, we compared behavioral performances in a battery of reading tests and brain activities in three tasks in Chinese children (N = 83, mean age = 11) and adults (N = 94, mean age = 20) with and without RD. We found that phonological deficits were persistent across children and adults with RD, while deficits in word decoding accuracy were only evident in children but not adults with RD. Moreover, deficits in sentence reading fluency were more severe in adults than children with RD. In the brain, we found persistent reduction of brain activation in the left inferior parietal lobule (IPL), suggesting neural signature of RD. We found greater reduction of brain activation in the left inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) in children with RD than in adults with RD, suggesting a developmental delay and/or performance effect. On the other hand, a reduction of brain activation in the left inferior temporal gyrus (ITG) was more salient in adults with RD than in children with RD, due to greater developmental increase in typical readers than in RD readers, ultimately indicating accumulative effects of RD. The results were replicated in multiple tasks and samples. It contributes to advancing our understanding of the etiology and prognosis of RD. The findings also have practical implications in precise diagnosis and interventions for RD at different ages.
Tiwaripotamon keeae sp. nov. (Crustacea: Decapoda: Potamidae), a new miniature species of freshwater crab from the China-Vietnam border in Napo, Guangxi
Authors: HUANG CHAO , SHIH HSI-TE , AHYONG SHANE T.
Published: July 2024

A new miniature species of freshwater crab from the genus Tiwaripotamon Bott, 1970 (Potamidae), is described from a montane karst area in southern Napo, at the China-Vietnam border. It is the twelfth known species of the genus, and is also the smallest known, with the largest adult specimen observed barely exceeding 20 mm in carapace width. Apart from the small size, features of the eyes, carapace and ambulatory legs further set Tiwaripotamon keeae sp. nov. apart from its congeners. Pairwise genetic distances of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene also support it as a distinct species.
A new genus, Ngankeecaris (Decapoda, Palaemonidae), with supplementary records of its type species, N. dardanicola (Bruce & Okuno, 2006) from the Ryukyu Islands, Japan
Authors: OKUNO JUNJI , YOSHIDA RYUTA
Published: July 2024

A new palaemonid shrimp genus, Ngankeecaris gen. nov. is established for two western Pacific species, Periclimenes acanthimerus Bruce, 2006 and P. dardanicola Bruce & Okuno, 2006 (type species). The present new genus can be distinguished from other marine palaemonid genera by the presence of the short transvers rows of spinulate tubercles on the ventral surfaces of ischium, merus, carpus and palm of the second pereiopod. The type species, N. dardanicola (Bruce & Okuno, 2006) comb. nov. is recorded from the Ryukyu Islands, southwestern Japan for the first time.
A new species of coral-dwelling crab (Decapoda: Brachyura: Cryptochiridae: Opecarcinus) from the West Pacific
Authors: WONG KINGSLEY J. H. , MEIJ SANCIA E. T. VAN DER , CHAN BENNY K. K.
Published: July 2024

Based on material acquired from Green Island, Taiwan, using a combined approach of traditional morphology-based taxonomy and molecular barcoding, we describe a new species of coral-dwelling crab, Opecarcinus ngankeeae sp. nov., from the scleractinian hosts Pavona decussata and P. varians (family Agariciidae). The DNA sequences of the present species matched with O. sp. SET6, associated with plate-forming Leptoseris and Pavona corals, available on Genbank, provided by Xu et al. (2022). The geographical distribution of O. ngankeeae sp. nov. spans from the Coral Triangle and Taiwan to Japan in West Pacific.
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: 100 years of research on Moschcowitz syndrome
Authors: Cataland Spero R. , Coppo Paul , Scully Marie , Lämmle Bernhard
Published: July 2024

In the 100 years since Eli Moschcowitz reported the first case of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), there has been remarkable awareness and progress in the diagnosis and management of this rare blood disorder. This progress initially was the result of careful clinical observations followed by well thought-out therapeutic interventions, with dual goals of both improving outcomes and discerning the pathophysiology of TTP. The discovery of the ADAMTS13 protease set in motion the efforts to more accurately define the specific etiologies of thrombotic microangiopathies (TMAs) based on objective, scientific data rather than clinical characterizations alone. This accurate differentiation led to better and more revealing clinical trials and advancements in the treatment of TTP and other TMAs. Further advances followed and included improvements in immune-suppressive therapy and targeted therapies of immune-mediated TTP (iTTP; caplacizumab) and congenital TTP (cTTP; recombinant ADAMTS13). The longitudinal study of patients with TTP revealed the unexpected risk for long-term complications in both patients with iTTP and those with cTTP in remission. Ongoing studies aim to further understand the prevalence, mechanisms, and appropriate screening for these mood disorders, neurocognitive deficits, and cardiovascular complications that develop at remarkably high rates and are associated with a decreased life expectancy. These discoveries are a result of the collaborative efforts of investigators worldwide that have been fostered by the frequent interactions of investigators via the International TTP Working Group meetings and TMA workshops held regularly at international meetings. These efforts will support the rapid pace of discovery and improved understanding of this rare disease.
Efficacy of T-cell assays for the diagnosis of primary defects in cytotoxic lymphocyte exocytosis
Authors: Chiang Samuel C. C. , Covill Laura E. , Tesi Bianca , Campbell Tessa M. , Schlums Heinrich , Nejati-Zendegani Jelve , Mördrup Karina , Wood Stephanie , Theorell Jakob , Sekine Takuya , Al-Herz Waleed , Akar Himmet Haluk , Belen Fatma Burcu , Chan Mei Yoke , Devecioglu Omer , Aksu Tekin , Ifversen Marianne , Malinowska Iwona , Sabel Magnus , Unal Ekrem , Unal Sule , Introne Wendy J. , Krzewski Konrad , Gilmour Kimberly C. , Ehl Stephan , Ljunggren Hans-Gustaf , Nordenskjöld Magnus , Horne AnnaCarin , Henter Jan-Inge , Meeths Marie , Bryceson Yenan T.
Published: July 2024

Primary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a life-threatening disorder associated with autosomal recessive variants in genes required for perforin-mediated lymphocyte cytotoxicity. A rapid diagnosis is crucial for successful treatment. Although defective cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) function causes pathogenesis, quantification of natural killer (NK)–cell exocytosis triggered by K562 target cells currently represents a standard diagnostic procedure for primary HLH. We have prospectively evaluated different lymphocyte exocytosis assays in 213 patients referred for evaluation for suspected HLH and related hyperinflammatory syndromes. A total of 138 patients received a molecular diagnosis consistent with primary HLH. Assessment of Fc receptor–triggered NK-cell and T-cell receptor (TCR)–triggered CTL exocytosis displayed higher sensitivity and improved specificity for the diagnosis of primary HLH than routine K562 cell–based assays, with these assays combined providing a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 98.3%. By comparison, NK-cell exocytosis after K562 target cell stimulation displayed a higher interindividual variability, in part explained by differences in NK-cell differentiation or large functional reductions after shipment. We thus recommend combined analysis of TCR-triggered CTL and Fc receptor–triggered NK-cell exocytosis for the diagnosis of patients with suspected familial HLH or atypical manifestations of congenital defects in lymphocyte exocytosis.
Eltrombopag plus diacerein vs eltrombopag in patients with ITP: a multicenter, randomized, open-label phase 2 trial
Authors: Sun Lu , Huang Xiaoyang , Wang Juan , Yuan Chenglu , Zhao Hongyu , Li Daqi , Xu Ruirong , Wang Yan , Qin Ping , Shi Yan , Peng Jun , Hou Ming , Hou Yu
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of eltrombopag plus diacerein vs eltrombopag alone in patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) who were previously unresponsive to 14 days of eltrombopag treatment at the full dose. Recruited patients were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive either eltrombopag plus diacerein (n = 50) or eltrombopag monotherapy (n = 52). Overall response rate, defined as a platelet count of ≥30 × 109/L, at least doubling of the baseline platelet count, and no bleeding, was reached in 44% of patients in the eltrombopag plus diacerein group compared with 13% in the eltrombopag group at day 15 (P = .0009), and reached in 42% of patients in the combination group compared with 12% in the monotherapy group at day 28 (P = .0006). The addition of diacerein to eltrombopag also led to a longer duration of response (P = .0004). The 2 most common treatment-emergent adverse events were respiratory infection and gastrointestinal reactions in the combination group, and fatigue and respiratory infection in the eltrombopag group. In conclusion, eltrombopag plus diacerein was well tolerated, and induced higher overall response rates and longer duration of response than eltrombopag alone, offering a rejuvenating salvage therapy for patients with ITP unresponsive to 14 days of full dosage eltrombopag. Our work has the potential to enhance the care of patients treated with thrombopoietin receptor agonists, reducing the need for rapid transitions to less-preferable therapies. This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov as #NCT04917679.
Pathophysiology and genomics of bronchiectasis
Authors: Perea Lidia , Faner Rosa , Chalmers James D. , Sibila Oriol
Published: July 2024

Bronchiectasis is a complex and heterogeneous inflammatory chronic respiratory disease with an unknown cause in around 30–40% of patients. The presence of airway infection together with chronic inflammation, airway mucociliary dysfunction and lung damage are key components of the vicious vortex model that better describes its pathophysiology. Although bronchiectasis research has significantly increased over the past years and different endotypes have been identified, there are still major gaps in the understanding of the pathophysiology. Genomic approaches may help to identify new endotypes, as has been shown in other chronic airway diseases, such as COPD.

Different studies have started to work in this direction, and significant contributions to the understanding of the microbiome and proteome diversity have been made in bronchiectasis in recent years. However, the systematic application of omics approaches to identify new molecular insights into the pathophysiology of bronchiectasis (endotypes) is still limited compared with other respiratory diseases.

Given the complexity and diversity of these technologies, this review describes the key components of the pathophysiology of bronchiectasis and how genomics can be applied to increase our knowledge, including the study of new techniques such as proteomics, metabolomics and epigenomics. Furthermore, we propose that the novel concept of trained innate immunity, which is driven by microbiome exposures leading to epigenetic modifications, can complement our current understanding of the vicious vortex. Finally, we discuss the challenges, opportunities and implications of genomics application in clinical practice for better patient stratification into new therapies.
Formic acid sandwich method is well-suited for filamentous fungi identification and improves turn around time using Zybio EXS2600 mass spectrometry
Authors: Wu Chongyang , Ao Keping , Zheng Yue , Jin Ying , Liu Ya , Chen Zhixing , Li Dongdong
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is extensively employed for the identification of filamentous fungi on MALDI Biotyper (Bruker Daltonics) and Vitek MS (biomerieux), but the performance of fungi identification on new EXS2600 (Zybio) is still unknow. Our study aims to evaluate the new EXS2600 system's (Zybio) ability to rapidly identify filamentous fungi and determine its effect on turnaround time (TAT) in our laboratory.

Methods

We tested 117 filamentous fungi using two pretreatment methods: the formic acid sandwich (FA-sandwich) and a commercial mold extraction kit (MEK, Zybio). All isolates were confirmed via sequence analysis. Laboratory data were extracted from our laboratory information system over two 9-month periods: pre-EXS (April to December 2022) and post-EXS (April to December 2023), respectively.

Results

The total correct identification (at the species, genus, or complex/group level) rate of fungi was high, FA-sandwich (95.73%, 112/117), followed by MEK (94.02%, 110/117). Excluding 6 isolates not in the database, species-level identification accuracy was 92.79% (103/111) for FA-sandwich and 91.89% (102/111) for MEK; genus-level accuracy was 97.29% (108/111) and 96.39% (107/111), respectively. Both methods attained a 100% correct identification rate for Aspergillus, Lichtheimia, Rhizopus Mucor and Talaromyces species, and were able to differentiate between Fusarium verticillioides and Fusarium proliferatum within the Fusarium fujikuroi species complex. Notably, high confidence was observed in the species-level identification of uncommon fungi such as Trichothecium roseum and Geotrichum candidum. The TAT for all positive cultures decreased from pre EXS2600 to post (108.379 VS 102.438, P < 0.05), and the TAT for tissue decreased most (451.538 VS 222.304, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The FA-sandwich method is more efficient and accurate for identifying filamentous fungi with EXS2600 than the MEK. Our study firstly evaluated the performance of fungi identification on EXS2600 and showed it is suitable for clinical microbiology laboratories use.
A case report and literature review: Mycobacterium leprae infection diagnosed by metagenomic next-generation sequencing of cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Zhao Conglin , Liu Zhenzhen
Published: July 2024

Background

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae (M. leprae) that is responsible for deformities and irreversible peripheral nerve damage and has a broad spectrum of clinical and serological manifestations. Leprosy primarily affects the peripheral nerves and rarely presents with central nervous system involvement. Diagnosing leprosy can still be difficult in some cases, especially when the infection involves uncommon clinical manifestations and extracutaneous sites. Delayed diagnosis and treatment of leprosy may lead to irreversible damage and death.

Case Presentation

We report a case of a 30-year-old female presenting with “repeated high fever with symptoms of headache for 14 days”. On the day of admission, physical signs of lost eyebrows and scattered red induration patches all over her body were observed. The patient’s diagnosis was based on the clinical characteristics using a combination of metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and slit-skin smear. After confirming Listeria meningitis and multibacillary leprosy with erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL), a type 2 reaction, she was treated with ampicillin sodium, dapsone, rifampicin, clofazimine, methylprednisolone, and thalidomide. At the 1-year follow-up, the frequency and severity of headaches have significantly decreased and a good clinical response with improved skin lesions was found.

Conclusion

This case highlights the importance of considering leprosy, which is a rare and underrecognized disease, in the differential diagnosis of skin rashes with rheumatic manifestations, even in areas where the disease is not endemic, and physicians should be alerted about the possibility of central nervous system infections. In addition, mNGS can be used as a complementary diagnostic tool to traditional diagnostic methods to enhance the diagnostic accuracy of leprosy.
Image features and clinical analysis of retroperitoneal pelvic schwannoma: a case report
Authors: Wu Xining , Meng Hua , Fan Qingbo , Qi Zhenhong , Pan Weidong
Published: July 2024

Background

Schwannomas are benign usually encapsulated nerve sheath tumors derived from the Schwann cells, and affecting single or multiple nerves. The tumors commonly arise from the cranial nerves as acoustic neurinomas but they are extremely rare in the pelvis and the retroperitoneal area. Retroperitoneal pelvic schwannomas often present with non-specific symptoms leading to misdiagnosis and prolonged morbidity.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 59-year-old woman presenting with a feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen who was found to have a retroperitoneal pelvic schwannoma originating from the right femoral nerve. She had a history of two resections of peripheral schwannomas at four different sites of limbs. After conducting magnetic resonance imaging, this pelvic schwannoma was misdiagnosed as a gynecological malignancy. The tumor was successfully removed by laparoscopic surgery. Pathological analysis of the mass revealed a benign schwannoma of the femoral nerve sheath with demonstrating strong, diffuse positivity for S-100 protein.

Conclusions

Although retroperitoneal pelvic schwannoma is rare, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pelvic masses, especially in patients with a history of neurogenic mass or the presence of neurogenic mass elsewhere.
Comparison of pregnancy outcomes between 4th day morula and 5th day blastocyst after embryo transfer: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Sun Yiqun , Shen Qi , Xi Haitao , Sui Liucai , Fu Yanghua , Zhao Junzhao
Published: July 2024

Background

This study was designed to evaluate pregnancy outcomes between morulae transferred on day 4 (D4) and blastocysts transferred on day 5 (D5).

Methods

From September 2017 to September 2020, 1963 fresh transfer cycles underwent early follicular phase extra-long protocol for assisted conception in our fertility center were divided into D4 (324 cases) and D5 (1639 cases) groups, and the general situation and other differences of patients in both groups were compared. To compare the differences in pregnancy outcomes, the D4 and D5 groups were further divided into groups A and B based on single and double embryo transfers. Furthermore, the cohort was divided into two groups: those with live births (1116 cases) and those without (847 cases), enabling a deeper evaluation of the effects of D4 or D5 transplantation on assisted reproductive outcomes.

Results

In single embryo transfer, there was no significant difference between groups D4A and D5A (P > 0.05). In double embryo transfer, group D4B had a lower newborn birthweight and a larger proportion of low birthweight infants (P < 0.05). The preterm delivery rate, twin delivery rate, cesarean delivery rate, and percentage of low birthweight infants were lower in the D5A group than in the D5B group (P < 0.05). Analysis of factors influencing live birth outcomes further confirmed the absence of a significant difference between D4 and D5 transplantation in achieving live birth (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

When factors such as working life and hospital holidays are being considered, D4 morula transfer may be a good alternative to D5 blastocyst transfer. Given the in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) success rate and risk of twin pregnancy, D4 morula transfer requires an adapted decision between single and double embryo transfer, although a single blastocyst transfer is recommended for the D5 transfer in order to decrease the twin pregnancy rate. In addition, age, endometrial thickness and other factors need to be taken into account to personalize the IVF program and optimize pregnancy outcomes.
Early change of plasma Epstein-Barr virus DNA load and the viral lytic genome level could positively predict clinical outcome in recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma receiving anti-programmed cell death 1 monotherapy
Authors: Lin Shaoyan , Zhou Huaqiang , Chen Gang , Xue Jinhui , Liu Qianwen , Li Jianing , Yang Yanhua , Zhao Yuanyuan , Bao Hua , Huang Yan , Ma Yuxiang , Zhao Hongyun
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Patients with recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (RM-NPC) have proven benefit from anti-programmed cell death 1 (anti-PD-1) monotherapy. Here, we retrospectively analyze the association of plasma Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA load and tumor viral lytic genome with clinical outcome from 2 registered phase I trials.

Methods

Patients with RM-NPC from Checkmate 077 (nivolumab phase I trial in China) and Camrelizumab phase I trial between March 2016 and January 2018 were enrolled. Baseline EBV DNA titers were tested in 68 patients and EBV assessment was performed in 60 patients who had at least 3 post-baseline timepoints of EBV data and at least 1 post-baseline timepoint of radiographic assessment. We defined “EBV response” as 3 consecutive timepoints of load below 50% of baseline, and “EBV progression” as 3 consecutive timepoints of load above 150% of baseline. Whole-exome sequencing was performed in 60 patients with available tumor samples.

Results

We found that the baseline EBV DNA load was positively correlated with tumor size (spearman p < 0.001). Both partial response (PR) and stable disease (SD) patients had significantly lower EBV load than progression disease (PD) patients. EBV assessment was highly consistent with radiographic evaluation. Patients with EBV response had significantly improved overall survival (OS) than patients with EBV progression (log-rank p = 0.004, HR = 0.351 [95% CI: 0.171–0.720], median 22.5 vs. 11.9 months). The median time to initial EBV response and progression were 25 and 36 days prior to initial radiographic response and progression, respectively. Patients with high levels of EBV lytic genomes at baseline, including BKRF2, BKRF3 and BKRF4, had better progression-free survival (PFS) and OS.

Conclusion

In summary, early clearance of plasma EBV DNA load and high levels of lytic EBV genes were associated with better clinical outcome in patients with RM-NPC receiving anti-PD-1 monotherapy.