bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of helium on thermal transport properties in single- and bi-crystals of Ni: a study based on molecular dynamics
Authors: Sharma Saurabh S , Parashar Avinash
Published: October 2023

Nuclear structures are prone to irradiation-induced defects that make them susceptible to alternation in mechanical and thermal properties. The transmutation of Ni to insoluble He atoms is considered to be responsible for the embrittlement of Ni. Helium bubbles are deemed responsible for the deterioration of mechanical and thermal properties of the Ni crystal, and this should be studied in detail to predict the lifespan of ageing nuclear structures. The aim of this article is to study the effect of helium on the thermal transport phenomenon in single- and bi-crystals of Ni. Molecular dynamics-based simulations in conjunction with a hybrid force field are performed to study the effect of a helium bubble on the thermal transport phenomenon in Ni crystals. These simulations are further extended to study the impact of symmetrical tilt grain boundaries (STGB) in conjunction with the doping of helium atoms on the thermal transport phenomenon in bi-crystal Ni. The effect of helium concentration in the bubble significantly alters the thermal transport in single-crystal Ni. The STGB configuration also introduces interfacial thermal resistance as a function of the misorientation angle. The helium-doped grain boundaries further increase the resistance to phonon movement and increase Kapitza resistance. The increase in Kapitza resistance is more dominant in higher misorientation angle grain boundaries.
Vortex wake patterns in superfluid 4He
Authors: Kolomeisky Eugene B
Published: October 2023

Excitations in the form of quantized vortex rings are known to exist in superfluid 4He at energies and momenta exceeding those of the Landau phonon–roton spectrum. They form a vortex branch of elementary excitations spectrum which is disconnected from the Landau spectrum. Interference of vortex ring excitations determines wake patterns due to uniformly traveling sources in bulk superfluid at low speeds and pressures. The dispersion law of these excitations resembles that of gravity waves on deep water with infrared wave number cutoff. As a result, vortex wake patterns featuring elements of the Kelvin ship wake are predicted. Specifically, at lowest speeds the pattern with fully developed transverse and diverging wavefronts is present. At intermediate speeds transverse wavefronts are absent within a cone whose opening angle increases with the source velocity. At largest speeds only diverging wavefronts confined within a cone whose opening angle decreases with the source velocity are found. When experimentally observed, these changes in appearance of wake patterns serve as indicators of the beginning part of the vortex branch of elementary excitations.
Singular solutions of the r-Camassa–Holm equation
Authors: Cotter Colin J , Holm Darryl D , Pryer Tristan
Published: October 2023

This paper introduces the r-Camassa–Holm (r-CH) equation, which describes a geodesic flow on the manifold of diffeomorphisms acting on the real line induced by the

W

1
,
r

metric. The conserved energy for the problem is given by the full

W

1
,
r

norm. For r = 2, we recover the Camassa–Holm equation. We compute the Lie symmetries for r-CH and study various symmetry reductions. We introduce singular weak solutions of the r-CH equation for

r
⩾
2

and demonstrates their robustness in numerical simulations of their nonlinear interactions in both overtaking and head-on collisions. Several open questions are formulated about the unexplored properties of the r-CH weak singular solutions, including the question of whether they would emerge from smooth initial conditions.
Reassembled phase diagram for Fe
y
Se
x
Te1−x
superconducting films grown by pulsed laser deposition
Authors: Zhang Jia-Ying , He Ya-Xun , Xiao Qi-Ling , Ge Jun-Yi
Published: October 2023

Fe
y
Se
x
Te

1
−
x

targets with different Fe contents have been prepared by the solid state reaction method followed by the hot-pressed sintering, and corresponding single-phase Fe
y
Se
x
Te

1
−
x

films with high quality have been deposited at different substrate temperatures by the pulsed laser deposition. The evolution of the structure, superconductivity and pinning mechanism of the Fe
y
Se
x
Te

1
−
x

superconductors with the Fe content has been investigated in detail. It can be found that the excess Fe can form the residual Fe impurities scattered in the polycrystalline bulks when the Fe content in the nominal composition exceeds 1.36. More importantly, a reassembled phase diagram for Fe
y
Se
x
Te

1
−
x

superconducting films based on the change of both Fe and Se contents is constructed for the first time. It can be clearly seen that both the Fe and Se contents can greatly affect the superconductivity of Fe
y
Se
x
Te

1
−
x

films within a wide range of Fe content (

0.67
⩽
y
⩽
1.48

). The Fe vacancies caused by the Fe deficiency is beneficial to the improvement of both critical temperature and activation energy, while with the increase of the Fe content, the superconductivity degrades because of the introduction of the interstitial Fe and the planar defects. The optimal Fe content at constant Se content shifts to the higher value with the increase of Se content. Our results facilitate the rational regulation of the superconducting properties, as well as the study of the underlying superconducting mechanism of FeSeTe superconductors.
Resistive switching behavior and mechanism of HfO
x
films with large on/off ratio by structure design
Authors: Huang 黄 Xianglin 香林 , Wang 王 Ying 英 , Huang 黄 Huixiang 慧香 , Duan 段 Li 理 , Guo 郭 Tingting 婷婷
Published: October 2023

Different bilayer structures of HfO
x
/Ti(TiO
x
) are designed for hafnium-based memory to investigate the switching characteristics. The chemical states in the films and near the interface are characterized by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and the oxygen vacancies are analyzed. Highly improved on/off ratio (∼104) and much uniform switching parameters are observed for bilayer structures compared to single layer HfO
x
sample, which can be attributed to the modulation of oxygen vacancies at the interface and better control of the growth of filaments. Furthermore, the reliability of the prepared samples is investigated. The carrier conduction behaviors of HfO
x
-based samples can be attributed to the trapping and de-trapping process of oxygen vacancies and a filamentary model is proposed. In addition, the rupture of filaments during the reset process for the bilayer structures occur at the weak points near the interface by the recovery of oxygen vacancies accompanied by the variation of barrier height. The re-formation of fixed filaments due to the residual filaments as lightning rods results in the better switching performance of the bilayer structure.
Research on Multi UAVS Task Allocation Method for Post Disaster Emergency Goods Distribution
Authors: Chen Liwei , Song Dianyang , Zhang Shuyuan
Published: October 2023

When a natural disaster occurs, ensuring timely and efficient delivery of emergency supplies to every affected location is crucial in mitigate the losses caused by the disaster. This study focuses on the distributing emergency supplies to heterogeneous multi-drone (UAV) swarms in the post-disaster scenario. Given the known distribution stations and disaster locations, a model is proposed that enables multiple drones to distribute various emergency supplies to multiple disaster zones. The model incorporates multiple objective constraints, including UAV range, priority of emergency goods, and UAV losses, resulting in a multi-objective optimization problem. To enhance the solving ability of genetic algorithm, we improve genetic algorithm by introducing adaptive cross operators, and its feasibility is compared with traditional genetic algorithms. Simulation experiments demonstrate that the improved genetic algorithm is significantly superior to traditional genetic algorithms in solving the optimal allocation scheme, thus providing a scientific basis for decision-making in emergency supply distribution.
The Upper Bound Estimation of Abelian Integral for a Class of Quadratic Reversible System under Small Perturbations
Authors: Zhan Yuangen
Published: October 2023

In this article, by using the Riccati equation method, we investigate the maximal values of the isolated zeros of the Abelian integral for a set of quadratic reversible systems (r11) that belong to genus one, while experiencing varying 3rd, 2nd, and 1st-polynomial perturbations. Specifically, we aimed to find the upper bound for the maximal zeros of the system’s limit cycle (a special dynamic behavior in a stable state, characterized by the existence of specific periodic orbits). We know that the Abelian integral is a function of h, so when studying the maximal zeros of the function related to h, we not only consider the highest degree of the relevant function but also take into account the parity of the function and the range of values of h. Then through variable substitution, a smaller upper bound can be obtained: our findings show that the maximal values of the isolated zeros count under varying 3rd, 2nd, and 1st-polynomial perturbations is 12, improving upon previous results where the upper bound was 34 for the 3rd polynomial perturbation and 22 for the 2nd and 1st polynomial perturbations. This study represents an improvement upon previous research.
The fitting of roundabout model with gradient-based minimization
Authors: Cheah Yuat Hoong , Yeak Su Hoe
Published: October 2023

The objective of this research is to create an appropriate roundabout model for all countries. To date, the four-arm roundabout macroscopic model has been created. In order to ensure the feasibility and suitability of the model for all countries, the fitting process must be implemented since the speed of vehicles varies in each country. Thus, the parameter estimation on the rate of exiting roundabout is to be determined because the mean speed of vehicles is related to the rate of exiting the roundabout. In the minimization process, we have proposed an efficient and reliable framework as it includes the calculation of gradients used in minimization so called the user supplied-gradient minimization, as compared to non-user supplied-gradient minimization. The including of the calculation of gradient is to produce more accurate results by the built-in MATLAB minimization routine for parameter fitting. In this research, five pseudo experiments with numerous parameters are carried out. The rate of exiting the roundabout is set initially in order to compute the Total Travel Time and Total Waiting Time. The simulation showed a highly converged and accurate solution by the user supplied-gradient minimization. Lastly, this parameter estimation can be implemented that will enable the roundabout model to be applied worldwide if there is actual data for Total Travel Time and Total Waiting Time.
Uncertainty analysis of potential population exposure within the coastal lowlands of mainland China
Authors: Li Feixiang , Yao Chenming , Fu Jingqiao , Yang Xuchao
Published: October 2023

With accelerating global sea level rise driven by climate change, accurate estimates of potential population exposure (PPE) within the low-elevation coastal zones (LECZ) are critical for coastal planning and assessing the benefits of climate mitigation. Multiple digital elevation models (DEM) and population grid datasets have been used for the PPE assessment of coastal lowlands. However, the uncertainty arising from differences in data sources and production methods results in poorly guided estimates. In this study, four global DEM and five population datasets were used to estimate the PPE in the LECZ of China and to assess the uncertainty of PPE estimation. Based on the DEM and population grid with the best accuracy, we found that more than 13.82% of China’s residents lived in the LECZ in 2010. Different DEM-population combinations yielded significantly different PPE estimates, ranging between 3.59–24.61 million and 31.56–112.24 million people in the LECZ below 1 m and 4 m elevation, respectively. The satellite Lidar-based DEM improves the estimates of the LECZ and obtains the PPE within LECZ below 4 m elevation that far exceeds those of other DEM datasets. The usage of WorldPop and LandScan population datasets leads to an underestimation of PPE within the LECZ of China. In contrast, integrating more geospatial big data helps generate better population grids, thus reducing the uncertainty of coastal PPE estimates. There is still a need to improve the availability and accuracy of coastal geospatial data and to deepen the understanding of coastal vulnerability.
Numerical simulation of the rheology of alumina abrasive particles applied to UHMWPE during the microabrasion test
Authors: Mora Ramírez Tomas de la , Torres San Miguel Christopher René , Melo Máximo Dulce Viridiana , López Perrusquia Noé , Doñu Ruiz Marco A , Elías Espinosa Milton Carlos
Published: October 2023

The material used for 50 years in orthopedics for joint replacements is ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). Joint replacements are designed so that the metal is in surface contact with the polymeric material, and it is used in most degenerative joint disorders. A problem with joint replacements is the half-life of their UHMWPE components resulting from surface contact, leading to premature wear. This leads to the detachment of wear particles causing osteolysis. In the present investigation, a numerical simulation of the rheology of 5 μm size alumina abrasive particles applied to UHMWPE type GUR 1020 was performed by duplicating the microabrasion test. An analogy was proposed between the alumina particles observed in the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the gravel stone obtaining a geometry similar to that of the alumina particles. A 3D scanner was used, obtaining different randomly selected gravel models. They were scanned and rendered to obtain the IGS files to be used in the finite element software. Using Archad’s abrasive wear theory, the volume displaced by the abrasive particles was obtained as a function of the geometry of the abrasive grains, influenced by the entry position of one or more of the different cutting edges contained in the geometry, the hardness of the softer material, the value of the normal load and the sliding distance. Individual trace profiles were obtained by 2D profilometry and wear traces were analyzed by SEM. Explicit dynamic analysis of particle motion was used to simulate the entry, transition and displacement during the abrasive wear test caused by detached particles. The experimental results of the microabrasion test were compared with finite element analysis, demonstrating that simulation can be used as a reliable tool to obtain information about the type of wear of a material.
Dislocation density-based modeling of the yield drop phenomenon in nickel-based single crystal superalloy
Authors: He Xu , Liu Lu
Published: October 2023

The phenomenon of yield drop, characterized by a decrease in flow stress after initial yield, has been observed in various nickel-based superalloys. Despite numerous proposed physical mechanisms, there is still a lack of a meso-mechanism-based constitutive model to explain this phenomenon. In this study, the tensile behavior of a nickel-based single crystal superalloy (DDX), was investigated at different strain rates and a temperature of 900 °C. It was observed that the yield drop phenomenon in DDX became more pronounced with increasing strain rate. To predict the yield drop phenomenon during tensile processing, an improved strength law based on continuum dislocation density theory was considered in the crystal plasticity framework. The proposed constitutive model was implemented using nonlinear iteration and incorporated into a finite element analysis software. The simulation results exhibited a good agreement between the experimental data and the stress–strain curve in the vicinity of the yield drop region, affirming the predictive aptitude of the proposed model in elucidating the yield drop phenomenon at various strain rates.
International Legacies of a Century and a Half of the Case Method
Authors: Zhou Han-Ru
Published: October 2023

Save the Constitution, the United States’s most famous legal export may well be the case method. This article pieces together the story of how CC Langdell’s brainchild was brought to the rest of the common law world in treading the momentous events and geopolitics of the last century and a half, and reflects on the lessons from this global experiment for the present and future of the case method. After initially attracting little attention overseas, the rise of the case method encountered its watershed in the post-war period. From then on, the method’s further expansion branched into two narratives: one in the Western world and the other in the former British African, Asian, and Caribbean colonies. The overseas experiments with the case method yielded some durable successes and cast a light on its singular ability to adapt to widely different environments. But mostly the picture is one of mixed results, especially outside the Western world, owing to a failure to devise an educational program adapted to the varying local circumstances. As with law itself, the teaching of law is inextricably tied to local idiosyncrasies and world politics, thus making the future of the case method as difficult to predict as it would have been for Langdell and his contemporaries. Today’s different national and international contexts from that of 1945 represent an opportunity to reassess the merits of the case method in our more mature legal and educational environments, freed from colonial and neocolonial agendas.
Explainable Multilayer Graph Neural Network for cancer gene prediction
Authors: Chatzianastasis Michail , Vazirgiannis Michalis , Zhang Zijun
Published: October 2023

Motivation

The identification of cancer genes is a critical yet challenging problem in cancer genomics research. Existing computational methods, including deep graph neural networks, fail to exploit the multilayered gene–gene interactions or provide limited explanations for their predictions. These methods are restricted to a single biological network, which cannot capture the full complexity of tumorigenesis. Models trained on different biological networks often yield different and even opposite cancer gene predictions, hindering their trustworthy adaptation. Here, we introduce an Explainable Multilayer Graph Neural Network (EMGNN) approach to identify cancer genes by leveraging multiple gene–gene interaction networks and pan-cancer multi-omics data. Unlike conventional graph learning on a single biological network, EMGNN uses a multilayered graph neural network to learn from multiple biological networks for accurate cancer gene prediction.

Results

Our method consistently outperforms all existing methods, with an average 7.15% improvement in area under the precision–recall curve over the current state-of-the-art method. Importantly, EMGNN integrated multiple graphs to prioritize newly predicted cancer genes with conflicting predictions from single biological networks. For each prediction, EMGNN provided valuable biological insights via both model-level feature importance explanations and molecular-level gene set enrichment analysis. Overall, EMGNN offers a powerful new paradigm of graph learning through modeling the multilayered topological gene relationships and provides a valuable tool for cancer genomics research.

Availability and implementation

Our code is publicly available at https://github.com/zhanglab-aim/EMGNN.
The genetic and environmental contributions to variation in the permanent dental arch form: a twin study
Authors: Lin Ting-han , Hughes Toby , Meade Maurice J
Published: October 2023

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine the relative contributions of genetic and environmental influences on variation in dental arch form in individuals who have largely completed their craniofacial growth.

Material and methods

The subjects of this study comprised dental casts of 50 monozygotic twins and 24 dizygotic twins from the collection of records of twins housed at the Adelaide Dental School, Australia. The subjects were of Western European descent, with an average age of 20.93 ± 5.58 years. Dental casts were scanned using a 3D scanner to analyse the dental arch form. Landmark-based inter-arch and intra-arch measurements were performed. Structural equation modelling was employed to analyse the quantitative data using the normal assumptions of the twin model.

Results

Genetic modelling revealed that additive genetic and unique environmental factors best explained the observed variation for all occlusal traits measured, except for mandibular intercanine width. High heritability was observed for most intra-arch occlusal variables (0.61–0.85) including the maxillary and mandibular intercanine and intermolar widths, arch depth and perimeter. In contrast, moderate heritability was found for inter-arch occlusal variables (0.52–0.59) such as overjet and overbite. Sexual dimorphism was evident, with males displaying larger posterior arch width than females (P < 0.05).

Limitations

Our sample was limited to individuals of Western European ancestry.

Conclusion

The predominant source of occlusal variation within this group of Australian twins of Western European descent was controlled by genetic effects, and most were highly heritable. Generally, intra-arch occlusal variables showed greater heritability compared with inter-arch occlusal variables.
On the importance of setting 3-D stress field in simulations of on- and off-fault deformation
Authors: Jeandet Ribes Louise , Thomas Marion Y , Bhat Harsha S
Published: October 2023

During the last decades, many numerical models have been developed to investigate the conditions for seismic and aseismic slip. Those models explore the behaviour of frictional faults, embedded in either elastic or inelastic media and submitted to a far field loading (seismic cycle models), or initial stresses (single dynamic rupture models). Those initial conditions impact both on-fault and off-fault dynamics. Because of the sparsity of direct measurements of fault stresses, modellers have to make assumptions about these initial conditions. To this day, Anderson’s theory is the only framework that can be used to link fault generation and reactivation to the 3-D stress field. In this work, we look at the role of the 3-D stress field in modelling a 2-D strike-slip fault under plane-strain conditions. We show that setting up an incorrect initial stress field, based on Anderson’s theory, can lead to underestimation of the damage zone width by up to a factor of six, for the studied cases. Moreover, because of the interactions between fault slip and off-fault deformation, initial stress field influences the rupture propagation. Our study emphasizes the need to set up the correct initial 3-D stress field, even in 2-D numerical simulations.
Introduction to Cells and Cell Research
Authors: Cooper Geoffrey M. , Adams Kenneth W.
Published: October 2023

1.1 The Origin and Evolution of Cells

1.2 Experimental Models in Cell Biology

1.3 Tools of Cell Biology: Microscopy and Subcellular Fractionation

MOLECULAR MEDICINE

Viruses and Cancer

KEY EXPERIMENT

HeLa Cells: The First Human Cell Line

Understanding the molecular biology of cells is one of...
Genomics, Proteomics, and Systems Biology
Authors: Cooper Geoffrey M. , Adams Kenneth W.
Published: October 2023

9.1 Genomics and Transcriptomics

9.2 Proteomics

9.3 Systems Biology

KEY EXPERIMENT

The Human Genome

MOLECULAR MEDICINE

COVID-19 and Synthetic Biology

Recent years have seen major changes in the way scientists approach cell and molecular biology, with large-scale experimental and computational approaches being applied to understand...
The Cytoskeleton and Cell Movement
Authors: Cooper Geoffrey M. , Adams Kenneth W.
Published: October 2023

13.1 Structure and Organization of Actin Filaments

13.2 Myosin Motors

13.3 Microtubules

13.4 Motors and Movement

13.5 Intermediate Filaments

KEY EXPERIMENT

The Isolation of Kinesin

KEY EXPERIMENT

Function of Intermediate Filaments

The membrane-enclosed organelles discussed in the preceding chapters constitute one level of the organizational...
Multi-marginal Gromov–Wasserstein transport and barycentres
Authors: Beier Florian , Beinert Robert , Steidl Gabriele
Published: October 2023

Gromov–Wasserstein (GW) distances are combinations of Gromov–Hausdorff and Wasserstein distances that allow the comparison of two different metric measure spaces (mm-spaces). Due to their invariance under measure- and distance-preserving transformations, they are well suited for many applications in graph and shape analysis. In this paper, we introduce the concept of multi-marginal GW transport between a set of mm-spaces as well as its regularized and unbalanced versions. As a special case, we discuss multi-marginal fused variants, which combine the structure information of an mm-space with label information from an additional label space. To tackle the new formulations numerically, we consider the bi-convex relaxation of the multi-marginal GW problem, which is tight in the balanced case if the cost function is conditionally negative definite. The relaxed model can be solved by an alternating minimization, where each step can be performed by a multi-marginal Sinkhorn scheme. We show relations of our multi-marginal GW problem to (unbalanced, fused) GW barycentres and present various numerical results, which indicate the potential of the concept.
Parameter inversion of the diffusive–viscous wave equation based on Gaussian process regression
Authors: Bai Zhaowei , Zhao Haixia , Wang Shaoru
Published: October 2023

The diffusive–viscous wave (DVW) equation is used to characterize the relationship between frequency-dependent seismic responses and saturated fluids by incorporating the frictional dissipation and viscous damping to the scalar wave equation. Simultaneous inversion of three model parameters in DVW equation is essential for seismic interpretations. Traditional inversion methods require continuous forward-modeling updates, resulting in low computational efficiency. Moreover, the traditional methods have limitations in simultaneously inverting multi-parameters of wave equations such as the DVW equation, usually fixing one parameter to invert the other two parameters. Gaussian process regression (GPR) is a kernel-based non-parametric probabilistic model that introduces prior variables through Gaussian processes (GP). We present a method for the inversion of the three parameters (velocity, diffusive and viscous attenuation coefficients) of the DVW equation based on GPR. The procedure consists of initially implementing the central finite difference approximation to discretize the DVW equation in the time domain. Subsequently, a Gaussian prior is provided on two snapshots of the DVW equation to obtain the corresponding kernel functions. Furthermore, the hyperparameters in kernel functions and the three model parameters are simultaneously trained by minimizing the negative logarithmic marginal likelihood with few training samples while incorporating the underlying physics in terms of encoding the DVW equation into the kernel functions. It is worth noting that it is the first time of implementing three-parameter simultaneous inversion based on the DVW equation. The numerical examples in homogeneous, layered and heterogeneous media demonstrate the effectiveness of this method.
Colorado tick fever virus: a review of historical literature and research emphasis for a modern era
Authors: Harris Emma K , Foy Brian D , Ebel Gregory D
Published: October 2023

Colorado tick fever virus is an understudied tick-borne virus of medical importance that is primarily transmitted in the western United States and southwestern Canada. The virus is the type species of the genus Coltivirus (Spinareoviridae) and consists of 12 segments that remain largely uncharacterized. Patterns of viral distribution are driven by the presence of the primary vector, the Rocky Mountain wood tick, Dermacentor andersoni. Infection prevalence in D. andersoni can range from 3% to 58% across the geographic distribution of the tick. Infection in humans can be severe and often presents with fever relapses but is rarely fatal. Here, we review the literature from primary characterizations in the early 20th century to current virus/vector research being conducted and identify vacancies in current research.
Culicoides-borne Orbivirus epidemiology in a changing climate
Authors: Hudson Amy R , McGregor Bethany L , Shults Phillip , England Marion , Silbernagel Constance , Mayo Christie , Carpenter Molly , Sherman Tyler J , Cohnstaedt Lee W
Published: October 2023

Orbiviruses are of significant importance to the health of wildlife and domestic animals worldwide; the major orbiviruses transmitted by multiple biting midge (Culicoides) species include bluetongue virus, epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus, and African horse sickness virus. The viruses, insect vectors, and hosts are anticipated to be impacted by global climate change, altering established Orbivirus epidemiology. Changes in global climate have the potential to alter the vector competence and extrinsic incubation period of certain biting midge species, affect local and long-distance dispersal dynamics, lead to range expansion in the geographic distribution of vector species, and increase transmission period duration (earlier spring onset and later fall transmission). If transmission intensity is associated with weather anomalies such as droughts and wind speeds, there may be changes in the number of outbreaks and periods between outbreaks for some regions. Warmer temperatures and changing climates may impact the viral genome by facilitating reassortment and through the emergence of novel viral mutations. As the climate changes, Orbivirus epidemiology will be inextricably altered as has been seen with recent outbreaks of bluetongue, epizootic hemorrhagic disease, and African horse sickness outside of endemic areas, and requires interdisciplinary teams and approaches to assess and mitigate future outbreak threats.
Use of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors is not associated with ocular adverse events
Authors: Belladelli Federico , Li Shufeng , Zhang Chiyuan A , Muncey Wade , Del Giudice Francesco , Glover Frank , Seranio Nicolas , Basran Satvir , Fallara Giuseppe , Montorsi Francesco , Salonia Andrea , Eisenberg Michael L
Published: October 2023

Background

Phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor (PDE5i) use has been linked to a number of ocular side effects, such as serous retinal detachment (SRD), retinal vascular occlusion (RVO), and ischemic optic neuropathy (ION).

Aim

We investigated the risk for SRD, RVO, and ION in patients using PDE5is.

Methods

We utilized the IBM MarketScan (2007-2021) Commercial and Medicare Supplemental Databases (version 2.0) for this analysis. To estimate overall events risk, Cox proportional hazard models were applied to calculate the hazard ratios (HRs) for erectile dysfunction (ED) diagnosis and the different treatments, adjusting for region, median age, obesity, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, smoking, hypertension, coronary artery disease, and sleep apnea. Additionally, the same analyses were performed to calculate the HRs for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) diagnosis and the different treatments.

Outcomes

HRs for SRD, RVO, and ION.

Results

In total, 1 938 262 men with an ED diagnosis were observed during the study period. Among them, 615 838 (31.8%) were treated with PDE5is. In total, 2 175 439 men with a BPH diagnosis were observed during the study period. Among them, 175 725 (8.1%) were treated with PDE5is. On adjusted Cox regression analysis, PDE5i use was not associated with SRD, RVO, ION, and any ocular event when compared with ED diagnosis and other ED treatments. Importantly, as the intensity of ED treatment increased, so did the risk of ocular events. In addition, PDE5i use was not associated with SRD and ION when compared with BPH diagnosis and other BPH treatments. In contrast, in patients with BPH, PDE5i use was associated with RVO (HR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.06-1.23). Importantly, patients with BPH receiving other medical treatment (ie, 5a reductase/alpha blocker; HR, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.06-1.16) or surgical treatment (HR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.02-1.19) had a higher risk of RVO.

Clinical Implications

We did not observe any consistent association between PDE5i use and any ocular adverse events (SRD, RVO, and ION).

Strengths and Limitations

Because we did not have access to the patients’ medical records, we recorded outcome definitions using ICD-9 and ICD-10 coding.

Conclusions

Patients using PDE5is for ED or BPH indications did not have an increased risk of ocular events, even when compared with other treatments for ED or BPH.
When two negatives make a positive: the favorable impact of the combination of abiotic stress and pathogen infection on plants
Authors: Pandey Prachi , Patil Mahesh , Priya Piyush , Senthil-Kumar Muthappa
Published: October 2023

Combined abiotic and biotic stresses modify plant defense signaling, leading to either the activation or suppression of defense responses. Although the majority of combined abiotic and biotic stresses reduce plant fitness, certain abiotic stresses reduce the severity of pathogen infection in plants. Remarkably, certain pathogens also improve the tolerance of some plants to a few abiotic stresses. While considerable research focuses on the detrimental impact of combined stresses on plants, the upside of combined stress remains hidden. This review succinctly discusses the interactions between abiotic stresses and pathogen infection that benefit plant fitness. Various factors that govern the positive influence of combined abiotic stress and pathogen infection on plant performance are also discussed. In addition, we provide a brief overview of the role of pathogens, mainly viruses, in improving plant responses to abiotic stresses. We further highlight the critical nodes in defense signaling that guide plant responses during abiotic stress towards enhanced resistance to pathogens. Studies on antagonistic interactions between abiotic and biotic stressors can uncover candidates in host plant defense that may shield plants from combined stresses.
Systematic Literature Review of Risk Factors for Poor Outcomes Among Adults With Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in High-Income Countries
Authors: Njue Annete , Nuabor Weyinmi , Lyall Matthew , Margulis Andrea , Mauskopf Josephine , Curcio Daniel , Kurosky Samantha , Gessner Bradford D , Begier Elizabeth
Published: October 2023

Identification of risk factors for severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease in adults could facilitate their appropriate vaccine recommendations. We conducted a systematic literature review (last 10 years in PubMed/Embase) to identify quantitative estimates of risk factors for severe RSV infection outcomes in high-income countries. Severe outcomes from RSV infection included hospitalization, excess mortality, lower respiratory tract infection, or a composite measure: severe RSV, which included these outcomes and others, such as mechanical ventilation and extended hospital stay. Among 1494 articles screened, 26 met eligibility criteria. We found strong evidence that the following increased the risk of severe outcomes: age, preexisting comorbid conditions (eg, cardiac, pulmonary, and immunocompromising diseases, as well as diabetes and kidney disease), and living conditions (socioeconomic status and nursing home residence). The frequency of severe outcomes among younger adults with comorbidities was generally similar to that experienced by older adults, suggesting that immunosenescence and chronic conditions are both contributing factors for elevated risk.

Trial registration

PROSPERO (CRD42022315239).
Loss to Follow-up and Death Among Individuals With Newly Diagnosed Human Immunodeficiency Virus Receiving Dolutegravir-Based First-Line Antiretroviral Treatment in Eastern Ethiopia: Implications for 95% United Nations Targets
Authors: Gemechu Abdella , Mihret Adane , Aseffa Abraham , Howe Rawleigh , Seyoum Berhanu , Mulu Andargachew
Published: October 2023

Background

Loss to follow-up (LTFU) and death are unfavorable outcomes of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatment. This study aimed to identify the predictors of LTFU and death among individuals with newly diagnosed HIV receiving dolutegravir (DTG)–based first-line antiretroviral treatment (ART) in eastern Ethiopia.

Methods

A multisite prospective cohort study was carried out between October 2020 and July 2022. New case patients who started ART were enrolled consecutively and then followed up for the next 6 months. A structured questionnaire and checklists were used to collect data. HIV viral load was determined using the Abbott RealTime HIV-1 assay. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify baseline factors associated with the outcomes.

Results

A total of 235 people with newly diagnosed HIV were enrolled; 16.6% (95% confidence interval, 12.3%–21.9%) were lost to follow-up, and 5.9% (3.5%–9.8%) died within 6 months of follow-up. Baseline World Health Organization clinical stage I (adjusted odds ratio, 3.93 [95% confidence interval, 1.34–11.57]), low viral load (3.67 [1.09–12.36]), and body weight (1.04 [1.01–1.07]) were predictors of LTFU, whereas nonfunctional status (10.02 [1.9–51.3]) was the only factor associated with death.

Conclusions

LTFU and death rates among patients with DTG were relatively high, accounting for roughly a quarter of the attrition of people with newly diagnosed HIV from ART care and services. Thus, targeted interventions are required to reduce LTFU and death among individuals with HIV on ART. Further investigation is necessary to evaluate the long-term effects of DTG-based regimens on LTFU and its impact on HIV mortality rates, and qualitative research, specifically tracing LTFU, is recommended.
Promoting Inclusive Cancer Care: Beyond Medical Interpreters
Authors: Thomas Alex G , Porter Alyx B
Published: October 2023

Opportunities exist to promote inclusive cancer care and clinical research to reduce disparity and achieve health equity. Through raising awareness of the nuances of the clinical encounter to promote inclusivity as well as reducing barriers to access and enrollment in clinical trials, a more complete understanding regarding the spectrum of disease and opportunity for inclusive cancer care can be achieved.
A key to wine conservation lies in the glass–cork interface
Authors: Chanut Julie , Bellat Jean-Pierre , Gougeon Régis D , Karbowiak Thomas
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the evolution of the oxygen barrier properties of the bottleneck–stopper system under conditions simulating the conservation of wine in the bottle (presence of model wine, storage position, and temperature) over a long aging period of 24 months. The results highlighted that the oxygen diffusion coefficient of the stopper alone is not modified regardless of the storage conditions. At 20°C, the presence of model wine favors oxygen transfer at the glass–cork interface, accounting for nearly 75% of total oxygen transfer in comparison to cork studied without model wine. Yet, the position of the bottle during storage, vertical (i.e. cork in contact with the vapor phase of the model wine) or horizontal (i.e. cork in contact with the liquid phase), does not influence the oxygen transfer. At higher storage temperatures (35 and 50°C), the barrier properties of the bottleneck–cork system remain stable up to 9 and 3 months, respectively. After this period, an alteration of the barrier properties is observed with an increase of the transfer at the glass–cork interface.
Specialty preference for cardiovascular prevention practice in the Southeast US and role of a preventive cardiologist
Authors: Ponir Cynthia , Seals Austin , Caldarera Trevor , Ip Edward H , German Charles A , Taylor Yhenneko , Moore Justin B , Bosworth Hayden B , Shapiro Michael D , Pokharel Yashashwi
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention is practiced concurrently by providers from several specialties. Our goal was to understand providers’ preference of specialties in CVD prevention practice and the role of preventive cardiologists.

Materials and Methods

Between 11 October 2021 and 1 March 2022, we surveyed providers from internal medicine, family medicine, endocrinology, and cardiology specialties to examine their preference of specialties in managing various domains of CVD prevention. We examined categorical variables using Chi square test and continuous variables using t or analysis of variance test.

Results

Of 956 invitees, 263 from 21 health systems and 9 states responded. Majority of respondents were women (54.5%), practicing physicians (72.5%), specializing in cardiology (43.6%), and working at academic centers (51.3%). Respondents favored all specialties to prescribe statins (43.2%), ezetimibe (37.8%), sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors (30.5%), and aspirin in primary prevention (36.3%). Only 7.9% and 9.5% selected cardiologists and preventive cardiologists, respectively, to prescribe SGLT2 inhibitors. Most preferred specialists (i.e. cardiology and endocrinology) to manage advanced lipid disorders, refractory hypertension, and premature coronary heart disease. The most common conditions selected for preventive cardiologists to manage were genetic lipid disorders (17%), cardiovascular risk assessment (15%), dyslipidemia (13%), and refractory/resistant hypertension (12%).

Conclusions

For CVD prevention practice, providers favored all specialties to manage common conditions, specialists to manage complex conditions, and preventive cardiologists to manage advanced lipid disorders. Cardiologists were least preferred to prescribe SGLT2 inhibitor. Future research should explore reasons for selected CVD prevention practice preferences to optimize care coordination and for effective use of limited expertise.
Local drug delivery systems for the inner ear
Authors: Dong Xuelian , Li Huaqiong , Zuo Wei
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Recent advancements in molecular biology have led to a better understanding of the mechanisms associated with sensorineural hearing loss and other inner ear diseases. These developments offer hope for new treatment approaches benefiting millions of patients. However, drug therapy for the cochlea presents significant challenges, necessitating the development of innovative technologies to ensure safe and effective delivery of therapeutic compounds. Among these emerging technologies, microfluidic-based delivery systems are gaining attention as a promising method for direct intracochlear administration. Ultimately, these systems have the potential to provide sustained release of regenerative compounds, thereby restoring hearing in patients suffering from various auditory conditions.

Key findings

This article provides a comprehensive review of recent progress in the field of intracochlear drug delivery systems. In addition, the review encompasses passive systems, such as osmotic pumps, as well as active microfluidic devices. Moreover, the article discusses the integration of these delivery systems with existing cochlear implants. The primary objective is to offer a concise overview of the current state of development for intracochlear drug delivery systems, which can be combined with emerging therapeutic compounds to effectively treat inner ear diseases.

Conclusions

The safe and effective treatment of auditory diseases requires the development of microscale delivery devices capable of extended operation and direct application to the inner ear. To achieve this, significant advancements in miniaturization and integration of multiple functions are necessary. These functions include drug storage, delivery, power management, and sensing, ultimately enabling closed-loop control and timed-sequence delivery devices for the treatment of these diseases.
Cucumeropsis mannii seed oil protects against bisphenol A-induced hepatotoxicity by mitigating inflammation and oxidative stress in rats
Authors: Aja Patrick Maduabuchi , Chukwu Chinecherem Adanna , Ugwu Okechukwu Paul-Chima , Ale Boniface Anthony , Agu Peter Chinedu , Deusdedi Tusubira , C. Chukwu Darlington , Ani Onyedika Gabriel , Ekpono Ezebuilo Ugbala , Ogwoni Hilary Akobi , Awoke Joshua Nonso , Ogbu Patience N , Aja Lucy , Ugochukwu Ukachi Oliver , Uche Orji Obasi , Peter Nweke Chinoso , Egwu Chinedu , Ugbala Ekpono Ejike , Onyinyechi Ewa Gift , Igwenyi Ikechuku Okorie , Ugo Alum Esther , Ejim Uti Daniel , Emeka Offor Christian , Ifie Josiah E , Njoku Amaobichukwu , Ekenechukwu Kenneth Maduagwunna , Daniel Eze Ejike
Published: October 2023

Objectives

This study looked at how Cucumeropsis mannii seed oil (CMSO) affected male Wistar albino rats’ liver damage caused by bisphenol A (BPA).

Methods

The standard HPLC method was used to assess the CMSO’s phenolic content. Then, six (n = 8) groups of 48 male Wistar rats (150 20 g) each received either CMSO or olive oil before being exposed to BPA for 42 days. Groups: A (1 ml of olive oil, regardless of weight), B (BPA 100 mg/kg body weight (BW)), C (CMSO 7.5 mg/kg BW), D (CMSO 7.5 mg/kg BW + BPA 100 mg/kg BW), E (CMSO 5.0 mg/kg BW + BPA 100 mg/kg BW), and F (CMSO 2.5 mg/kg BW + BPA 100 mg/kg BW).

Key findings

A surprising abundance of flavonoids, totalling 17.8006 10.95 g/100 g, were found in the HPLC data. Malondialdehyde, liver enzymes, reactive oxygen species, total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin levels were all significantly elevated by BPA (P = 0.05). Additionally, nuclear factor-B, interleukin-6, interleukin-1, tumour necrosis factor, and histological alterations were all considerably (P = 0.05) caused by BPA. The altered biochemical markers and histology were, however, noticeably recovered by CMSO to a level that was comparable to the control.

Conclusions

Due to the abundance of flavonoid components in the oil, CMSO protects the liver from BPA-induced hepatotoxicity by lowering oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions.