bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Event‐triggered control of switched linear systems with state‐dependent switching law and unstabilizable modes
Authors: Zeng Ze‐Hong , Wang Yan‐Wu , Liu Xiao‐Kang , Liu Zhi‐Wei
Published: March 2024

This paper studies the event‐triggered control of switched linear system with state‐dependent switching law. A dynamic term is introduced to the switching law to acclimatize the dynamic mode‐dependent event‐triggered controller. Besides, neither the switching law nor the controller needs continuous detection of the system states. Because of the event‐triggered and sampling behavior of the controller, asynchronous between the controller and the system modes are encountered. A new multiple Lyapunov functional is proposed to appropriately characterize the synchronous and asynchronous working modes of the system, and a sufficient exponential stability condition is obtained, which is applicable for the cases when some modes or all modes of the switched system are unstabilizable. Moreover, the event‐triggered control and switching law parameters are jointly designed using linear matrix inequalities. Numerical and comparison studies are offered to provide the validity and superiority of the result.
Multi‐Level Structural Enhancement Mechanism of the Excellent Mechanical Properties of Dung Beetle Leg Joint
Authors: Tuo Zhiwei , Yang Kaisheng , Ma Suqian , Cui Jiandong , Shi Yu , Zhao Hongwei , Liang Yunhong , Liu Changyi , Lin Zhaohua , Han Zhiwu , Ren Luquan
Published: March 2024

The multi‐level structure is a strategy to enhance the mechanical properties of dung beetle leg joints. Under external loads, the microstructure facilitates energy dissipation and prevents crack extension. The macrostructure aids in transferring the load to more reliable parts. The connection established by the two hemispheres is present in the dung beetle leg joint. The micron‐layered and nanoscale crystal structures further constitute the leg joint with excellent mechanical properties. The maximum compression fracture force is ≈101000 times the weight of the leg. Here, the structural design within the dung beetle leg joints and reveal the resulting mechanical response and enhancement mechanisms is determined. A series of beetle leg joints where the macrostructure and microstructure of the dung beetle leg provide mechanical strength at critical strains while avoiding catastrophic failure by transferring the load from the joint to the exoskeleton of the femur is highlighted. Nanocrystalline structures and fiber layers contribute to crack propagation of the exoskeleton. Based on this, the bionic joint with multi‐level structures using resin and conducted a series of tests to verify their effectiveness is prepared. This study provides a new idea for designing and optimizing high‐load joints in engineering.
On‐Chip Micro‐Supercapacitor with High Areal Energy Density Based on Dielectrophoretic Assembly of Nanoporous Metal Microwire Electrodes
Authors: Seo Seungdeok , Oh In Hyeok , Chang Suk Tai
Published: March 2024

Advances in the Internet of Things (IoT) technology have driven the demand for miniaturized electronic devices, prompting research on small‐scale energy‐storage systems. Micro‐supercapacitors (MSCs) stand out in this regard because of their compact size, high power density, high charge–discharge rate, and extended cycle life. However, their limited energy density impedes commercialization. To resolve this issue, a simple and innovative approach is reported herein for fabricating highly efficient on‐chip MSCs integrated with nanoporous metal microwires formed by dielectrophoresis (DEP)‐driven gold nanoparticle (AuNP) assembly. Placing a water‐based AuNP suspension onto interdigitated electrodes and applying an alternating voltage induces in‐plane porous microwire formation in the electrode gap. The DEP‐induced AuNP assembly and the gold microwire (AuMW) growth rate can be adjusted by controlling the applied alternating voltage and frequency. The microwire‐integrated MSC (AuMW‐MSC) electrically outperforms its unmodified counterpart and exhibits a 30% larger electrode area, along with 72% and 78% higher specific and areal capacitances, respectively, than a microwire‐free MSC. Additionally, AuMW‐MSC achieves maximum energy and power densities of 3.33 µWh cm−2 and 2629 µW cm−2, respectively, with a gel electrolyte. These findings can help upgrade MSCs to function as potent energy‐storage devices for small electronics.
Tuning the Surface Stability and Li/Na Storage of MXenes by Controlling the Surface Termination Coverage
Authors: Qiu Nianxiang , He Jian , Huang Qing , Du Shiyu
Published: March 2024

2D transition metal carbides and/or nitrides, MXenes, are a class of widely studied materials with great potential for energy storage applications. The control of surface chemistry is an effective approach for preparing novel MXenes and modifying their electrochemical properties. However, an in‐depth and systematic atomic‐scale study of the effect of surface termination on MXene stability and electrochemical performance is scarce and thus is highly desired. Here, through high‐throughput first‐principles calculations, 28 stable chalcogen‐functionalized M2CTz (M = V, Nb, and Ta, T = S, Se, and Te) under different chemical environments are identified. The reduction of termination coverage improves electrical conductivity but weakens in‐plane stiffness. Intriguingly, based on charge transfer mechanism, the diffusion barrier of lithium/sodium atoms on the M2CTz exhibits a volcano‐like relationship with termination coverage, and the ion diffusion channel formed in half termination coverage greatly accelerates lithium ion diffusion and returns to or exceeds sodium ion diffusion rate at full termination coverage. V2CSe2/Nb2CSz not only displays the large lithium/sodium capacity (592/409‐466 mAhg−1) but also exhibits low barrier energy and open‐circuit voltage, suggesting a promising candidate anode material for lithium/sodium‐ion batteries. These findings provide insights into the design and fabrication of MXenes and tuning the electrochemical performance of MXenes by controlling termination coverage.
Stoichiometrically Optimized Electrochromic Complex [V2O2+ξ(OH)3‐ξ] Based Electrode: Prototype Supercapacitor with Multicolor Indicator
Authors: Bansal Love , Sahu Bhumika , Rath Deb Kumar , Ahlawat Nikita , Ghosh Tanushree , Kandpal Suchita , Kumar Rajesh
Published: March 2024

The systematic structure modification of metal oxides is becoming more attractive, and effective strategies for structural tunning are highly desirable for improving their practical color‐modulating energy storage performances. Here, the ability of a stoichiometrically tuned oxide‐hydroxide complex of porous vanadium oxide, namely [V2O2+ξ(OH)3‐ξ]ξ = 0:3 for multifunctional electrochromic supercapacitor application is demonstrated. Theoretically, the pre‐optimized oxide complex is synthesized using a simple wet chemical etching technique in its optimized stoichiometry [V2O2+ξ(OH)3‐ξ] with ξ = 0, providing more electroactive surface sites. The multifunctional electrode shows a high charge storage property of 610 Fg−1 at 1A g−1, as well as good electrochromic properties with high color contrast of 70% and 50% at 428 and 640 nm wavelengths, faster switching, and high coloration efficiency. When assembled in a solid‐state symmetric electrochromic supercapacitor device, it exhibits an ultrahigh power density of 1066 mWcm−2, high energy density of 246 mWhcm−2, and high specific capacitance of 290 mFcm−2 at 0.2 mAcm−2. A prepared prototype device displays red when fully charged, green when half charged, and blue when fully discharged. A clear evidence of optimizing the multifunctional performance of electrochromic supercapacitor by stoichiometrical tuning is presented along with demonstrating a device prototype of a 25 cm2 large device for real‐life applications.
Enhancing the Output Performance of Triboelectric Nanogenerator Through Regulation of its Internal Nano‐Architecture
Authors: Li Jiawei , Peng Yating , Wang Peng , Wang Congyu , Zhang Jun , Xiang Tengfei , Yao Shengxun , Zhang Dun
Published: March 2024

Triboelectric Nanogenerator (TENG) has proven highly effective in converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. Previous research on manipulating microstructure for performance enhancement primarily focused on the surface of TENGs. In this study, an innovative bottom–up strategic design to control the internal nano‐architecture for the enhanced output of TENG is proposed. This multiscale structural design strategy consists of defect chemistry (angstrom‐scale), surface modification (nano‐scale), and spatial regulation of nanoparticles (meso‐scale), which helps explore the optimal utilization of TENG's internal structure. After fine‐tuning the nano‐architecture, the output voltage is significantly increased. This optimized TENG serves as a robust platform for developing self‐powered systems, including self‐powered electrochemical chlorination systems for sterilization. Additionally, through the utilization of multiscale simulations (density functional theory, all‐atom molecular dynamics, and dissipative particle dynamics), the underlying mechanisms governing how the optimized nanoparticle–polymer interface and spatial arrangement of nanoparticles influence the storage and transfer of charges are comprehensively elucidated. This study not only demonstrates the effectiveness of manipulating internal nano‐architecture to enhance TENG performance for practical applications but also provides invaluable insights into structural engineering for TENG advancement.
Progress of Gene‐Functionalized Regenerative Material Repair Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Authors: Li Xiaohu , Chang Hongze , Cai Feng , Zhang Yan , Li Ang , Yang Xiaolong , Cai Zhengwei , Cui Wenguo , Liu Xiaodong
Published: March 2024

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is widely recognized as the primary culprit of chronic low back pain. Restoring deteriorated intervertebral disc (IVD) and alleviating IDD‐induced low back pain are remaining enormous challenges. There is a genetic susceptibility to IDD, and gene therapy has some therapeutic potential. However, traditional gene therapy still has certain drawbacks, including host immunity, temporary release, and suppression of gene medication function. Although regenerative materials can effectively improve the local microenvironment, they cannot treat IDD from the root. Gene‐functionalized regenerative material (GRM) is constructed based on physical embedding or forming chemical bonds by introducing particular genes, such as pDNA, siRNA, mRNA, and miRNA, into the regenerated materials. The findings demonstrate that GRM not only enhances the safety and controllability of gene therapy, but also effectively repairs IDD by overcoming the constraint that simple regenerative materials cannot reverse the disease's progression from the root. This article provided a brief overview of the physiological and pathological features of the IVD, genetic susceptibility to IDD, available treatment options, and their limitations. Then, the significance of GRM‐based treatment of IDD is proposed, and the future challenges and development in this field are finally prospected.
Suppressed Phase Segregation with Small A‐Site and Large X‐Site Incorporation for Photostable Wide‐Bandgap Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Sun Huande , Liu Sanwan , Liu Xiaoxuan , Gao You , Wang Jianan , Shi Chenyang , Raza Hasan , Sun Zhenxing , Pan Yongyan , Cai Yong , Zhang Siqi , Sun Derun , Chen Wei , Liu Zonghao
Published: March 2024

Wide‐bandgap (WBG) perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have been widely used as the top cell of tandem solar cells. However, photoinduced phase segregation and high open‐circuit voltage loss pose significant obstacles to the development of WBG PSCs. Here, a two‐step small‐size A‐site and large‐size X‐site incorporation strategy is reported to modulate the lattice distortion and improve the film quality of WBG formamidinium‐methylammonium (FAMA) perovskite films for photostable PSCs based on two‐step deposition method. First, CsI with content of 0–20% is introduced to tune the lattice distortion and film quality of FAMA perovskite with a bandgap of 1.70 eV. Then, 4% RbI is incorporated to further modulate the perovskite growth and lattice distortion, leading to the suppression of photoinduced phase segregation in the resultant RbCsFAMA quadruple cation perovskites. As a result, the 20%CsI/4%RbI‐doped device obtains a promising efficiency of 20.6%, and the corresponding perovskite film shows good photothermal stability. Even without encapsulation, the device can maintain 92% of its initial efficiency after 1000 h of continuous operation under 1 sun equivalent white light‐emitting diode illumination.
Thermal and mass stratification effects on unsteady parabolic flow past an infinite vertical plate with exponential decaying temperature and variable mass diffusion in porous medium
Authors: Nath Rupam Shankar , Deka Rudra Kanta
Published: March 2024

This study looks at how thermal and mass stratification affect the unsteady parabolic flow past an infinite vertical plate with exponentially decaying temperature and variable mass diffusion in a porous medium. The Laplace transform method is applied to solve the governing equations for flow, energy, and mass diffusion. The effects of the both stratification on the flow field, temperature, and mass diffusion are then investigated. The research suggests that the existence of thermal and mass stratification has a considerable influence on the profiles of velocity, temperature, and mass diffusion. It is also found that a stable state is reached for the velocity when both stratification parameters are increased, while stable states are reached for the temperature and concentration when the mass stratification is increased but the thermal stratification is decreased.
The effects of anthropogenic noise on frogs housed on exhibit at a public aquarium
Authors: Angel Colette , Romano Michael , Knapp Charles R.
Published: March 2024

Anuran behavior and reproduction are dominated by vocalizations, rendering them vulnerable to the effects of signal masking. For anurans on display in zoos and aquaria, a major source of ambient noise is visitors, which pose a unique source of potential anthropogenic signal masking. Call characteristics (total call duration, and minimum and maximum call frequencies) of three populations of dendrobatids (Dendrobates leucomelas, Epipedobates tricolor, and Ranitomeya imitator) on public display were investigated at time periods of increasing visitor‐related noise (closed, off‐peak, and peak aquarium visiting hours) to determine if there were changes in call characteristics that correlated with changes in visitor noise levels. The data revealed that call length increased with more visitor noise for D. leucomelas and E. tricolor, with their longest calls during peak hours, and all three species had their shortest calls during closed hours. Both minimum and maximum call frequencies increased with more visitor noise for E. tricolor and R. imitator, with their highest frequencies during peak hours, and lowest frequencies during closed hours. This study found evidence that anurans on public display adjust their vocalizations in the presence of visitor noise. These findings support expanded monitoring of ambient noise for animals on public display to determine if noise poses significant effects that might influence well‐being or reproduction.
Quantum detection of new physics in top-quark pair production at the LHC
Authors: Maltoni Fabio , Severi Claudio , Tentori Simone , Vryonidou Eleni
Published: March 2024

Abstract

The recent observation of entanglement between top and anti-top quarks at the LHC opens the way to interpreting collider data with quantum information tools. In this work we investigate the relevance of quantum observables in searches of new physics. To this aim, we study spin correlations of $$t\overline{t }$$ pairs originating from various intermediate resonances, and compare the discovery reach of quantum observables compared to classical ones. We find that they provide complementary information and, in several notable cases, also the additional leverage necessary to detect new effects.
A New Literary Style of Science: The Rise of Acronyms in Physics and Astronomy
Authors: Kragh Helge
Published: March 2024

Research articles in all branches of modern science are crowded with the abbreviated technical terms known as acronyms, a phenomenon that was essentially unknown before World War II. Apart from an introduction to the notion of acronyms and its short history, the paper discusses from a historical perspective the connections between acronyms and eponyms in science. Moreover, it charts how acronyms and abbreviations became so common in physics and astronomy that the excessive use of them came to be considered a symptom of a contagious disease. While many science acronyms are exotic and little used, and some downright bizarre, others have become household words that in some cases are not even recognized to be acronymic constructions. The paper briefly examines the naming histories of some of these successful acronyms in physics and astronomy, among them radar, sonar, maser, laser, and pulsar.
USP28 promotes tumorigenesis and cisplatin resistance by deubiquitinating MAST1 protein in cancer cells
Authors: Karapurkar Janardhan Keshav , Colaco Jencia Carminha , Suresh Bharathi , Tyagi Apoorvi , Woo Sang Hyeon , Jo Won-Jun , Ko Nare , Singh Vijai , Hong Seok-Ho , Oh Seung Jun , Kim Kye-Seong , Ramakrishna Suresh
Published: March 2024

Cisplatin is a chemotherapy drug that causes a plethora of DNA lesions and inhibits DNA transcription and replication, resulting in the induction of apoptosis in cancer cells. However, over time, patients develop resistance to cisplatin due to repeated treatment and thus the treatment efficacy is limited. Therefore, identifying an alternative therapeutic strategy combining cisplatin treatment along with targeting factors that drive cisplatin resistance is needed. CRISPR/Cas9 system-based genome-wide screening for the deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB) subfamily identified USP28 as a potential DUB that governs cisplatin resistance. USP28 regulates the protein level of microtubule-associated serine/threonine kinase 1 (MAST1), a common kinase whose expression is elevated in several cisplatin-resistant cancer cells. The expression level and protein turnover of MAST1 is a major factor driving cisplatin resistance in many cancer types. Here we report that the USP28 interacts and extends the half-life of MAST1 protein by its deubiquitinating activity. The expression pattern of USP28 and MAST1 showed a positive correlation across a panel of tested cancer cell lines and human clinical tissues. Additionally, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene knockout of USP28 in A549 and NCI-H1299 cells blocked MAST1-driven cisplatin resistance, resulting in suppressed cell proliferation, colony formation ability, migration and invasion in vitro. Finally, loss of USP28 destabilized MAST1 protein and attenuated tumor growth by sensitizing cells to cisplatin treatment in mouse xenograft model. We envision that targeting the USP28-MAST1 axis along with cisplatin treatment might be an alternative therapeutic strategy to overcome cisplatin resistance in cancer patients.
Primär sklerosierende Cholangitis – Diagnose und Therapie 2024
Authors: Trauner Michael , Halilbasic Emina , Tatscher Elisabeth , Fickert Peter
Published: March 2024

Die Ursache der primär sklerosierenden Cholangitis (PSC) bleibt unklar und erklärt das Fehlen einer kausalen Therapie. Die differenzialdiagnostische Abgrenzung zur noch selteneren IgG4-assoziierten Cholangitis (IAC) gelingt uns immer besser. Fortschritte im Wissen um unterschiedliche klinische Verläufe, Verbesserungen in der nichtinvasiven Diagnostik durch moderne Magnetresonanzbildgebung und die Einführung der Leberelastographie führten zur Entwicklung verbesserter Prognosemodelle. Die Evidenz für Empfehlungen zur medikamentösen (z. B. Ursodesoxycholsäure) oder endoskopischen Therapie (z. B. Ballondilatation und/oder Stenteinlage) bei PSC bleibt gering. Hingegen werden die Langzeitergebnisse der Lebertransplantation bei PSC stetig besser. Mangels hochsensitiver und spezifischer Screeningmethoden gelingt die Früherkennung des cholangiozellulären Karzinoms (CCC) als wichtigste Komplikation selten. Die stetige Verbesserung von ERCP und direkter Cholangioskopie in Kombination mit molekularbiologischen und FISH-Analysen der gewonnenen Gewebsproben ist für die verfeinerte Diagnostik vielversprechend. Aufgrund des deutlich erhöhten Risikos für kolorektale Karzinome wird bei Vorliegen einer chronisch-entzündlichen Darmerkrankung (CED) die jährliche Koloskopie empfohlen. Errungenschaften in der Frühdiagnostik und die erfolgreiche Testung neuer Therapiemodalitäten lassen auf eine stetige Verbesserung in der Betreuung dieser komplexen PatientInnen hoffen.
Inverse design of periodic microstructures with targeted nonlinear mechanical behaviour
Authors: Thillaithevan Dilaksan , Murphy Ryan , Hewson Robert , Santer Matthew
Published: March 2024

This paper introduces an inverse design framework for the precise tailoring of desired nonlinear mechanical responses in periodic microstructures, with particular focus on prescribed nonlinear stress–strain relationships. The topology optimization hinges on minimizing the error between the target and realized properties of the microstructures. A deformation-driven homogenization framework is setup. The periodic constraints needed for the microscale equilibrium equation are imposed through strongly enforced periodic boundary conditions and the removal of the translational nullspace, avoiding the need for Lagrange multipliers, greatly simplifying the implementation. Automatic differentiation is leveraged to efficiently calculate the necessary sensitivities for the gradient-based optimization. To further aid the design of discrete designs a intermediate density penalty constraint is proposed. Numerical examples underscore the efficacy of our methodology, showcasing microstructures that demonstrate targeted softening and stiffening as well as distinctive directional behaviour.
Foreign direct investment and inclusive finance: do financial markets and quality of institutions matter?
Authors: Abor Joshua Yindenaba , Dwumfour Richard Adjei , Agbloyor Elikplimi Komla , Pan Lei
Published: March 2024

We examine the impact of foreign direct investment (FDI) on financial inclusion. To identify the causal effect of FDI on financial inclusion, we use plausibly exogenous source of variations in bilateral investment treaties (BITs) as a novel instrumental variable (IV) for net FDI inflows. Using annual data for a broad panel of 90 countries over the period 2004 to 2017, our results show that FDI improves financial inclusion for both “access to finance" and “use of financial services". This impact is more pronounced for relatively poor countries and developing countries compared to rich and developed countries. We also find that higher financial market development and quality institutions improve financial inclusion directly. Moreover, financial market development and institutional quality can serve as potential channels and moderating variables through which FDI affects financial inclusion. Our results are robust to various estimations and sample splitting and have important implications for policy on financial inclusion.
Mosapride stimulates human 5-HT4-serotonin receptors in the heart
Authors: Neumann Joachim , Hesse Christin , Hofmann Britt , Gergs Ulrich
Published: March 2024

Mosapride (4-amino-5-chloro-2-ethoxy-N-[[4-[(4-fluorophenyl) methyl]-2-morpholinyl]-methyl] benzamide) is a potent agonist at gastrointestinal 5-HT4 receptors. Mosapride is an approved drug to treat several gastric diseases. We tested the hypothesis that mosapride also stimulates 5-HT4 receptors in the heart. Mosapride increased the force of contraction and beating rate in isolated atrial preparations from mice with cardiac overexpression of human 5-HT4-serotonin receptors (5-HT4-TG). However, it is inactive in wild-type mouse hearts (WT). Mosapride was less effective and potent than serotonin in raising the force of contraction or the beating rate in 5-HT4-TG. Only in the presence of cilostamide (1 μM), a phosphodiesterase III inhibitor, mosapride, and its primary metabolite time dependently raised the force of contraction under isometric conditions in isolated paced human right atrial preparations (HAP, obtained during open heart surgery). In HAP, mosapride (10 μM) reduced serotonin-induced increases in the force of contraction. Mosapride (10 µM) shifted the concentration–response curves to serotonin in HAP to the right. These data suggest that mosapride is a partial agonist at 5-HT4-serotonin receptors in HAP.
The effects of pramipexole on motivational vigour during a saccade task: a placebo-controlled study in healthy adults
Authors: Au-Yeung Sheena K. , Halahakoon Don Chamith , Kaltenboeck Alexander , Cowen Philip , Browning Michael , Manohar Sanjay G
Published: March 2024

Motivation allows us to energise actions when we expect reward and is reduced in depression. This effect, termed motivational vigour, has been proposed to rely on central dopamine, with dopaminergic agents showing promise in the treatment of depression. This suggests that dopaminergic agents might act to reduce depression by increasing the effects of reward or by helping energise actions. The aim of the current study was to investigate whether the dopamine agonist pramipexole enhanced motivational vigour during a rewarded saccade task. In addition, we asked whether the effects of pramipexole on vigour differ between reward contingent on performance and guaranteed reward. Healthy adult participants were randomised to receive either pramipexole (n = 19) or placebo (controls n = 18) for 18 days. The vigour of saccades was measured twice, once before the administration of study medication (Time 1) and after taking it for 12–15 days (Time 2). To separate motivation by contingency vs. reward, saccadic vigour was separately measured when (1) rewards were contingent on performance (2) delivered randomly with matched frequency, (3) when reward was guaranteed, (4) when reward was not present at all. Motivation increased response vigour, as expected. Relative to placebo, pramipexole also increased response vigour. However, there was no interaction, meaning that the effects of reward were not modulated by drug, and there was no differential drug effect on contingent vs. guaranteed rewards. The effect of pramipexole on vigour could not be explained by a speed/accuracy trade-off, nor by autonomic arousal as indexed by pupillary dilation. Chronic D2 stimulation increases general vigour, energising movements in healthy adults irrespective of extrinsic reward.
Unveiling the invisible: receivers use object weight cues for grip force planning in handover actions
Authors: Kopnarski L. , Rudisch J. , Kutz D. F. , Voelcker-Rehage C.
Published: March 2024

Handover actions are part of our daily lives. Whether it is the milk carton at the breakfast table or tickets at the box office, we usually perform these joint actions without much conscious attention. The individual actions involved in handovers, that have already been studied intensively at the level of individual actions, are grasping, lifting, and transporting objects. Depending on the object’s properties, actors must plan their execution in order to ensure smooth and efficient object transfer. Therefore, anticipatory grip force scaling is crucial. Grip forces are planned in anticipation using weight estimates based on experience or visual cues. This study aimed to investigate whether receivers are able to correctly estimate object weight by observing the giver’s kinematics. For this purpose, handover actions were performed with 20 dyads, manipulating the participant role (giver/receiver) and varying the size and weight of the object. Due to the random presentation of the object weight and the absence of visual cues, the participants were unaware of the object weight from trial to trial. Kinematics were recorded with a motion tracking system and grip forces were recorded with customized test objects. Peak grip force rates were used as a measure of anticipated object weight. Results showed that receiver kinematics are significantly affected by object weight. The peak grip force rates showed that receivers anticipate object weight, but givers not. This supports the hypothesis that receivers obtain information about the object weight by observing giver’s kinematics and integrating this information into their own action execution.
Impact of temporal resolution on perfusion metrics, therapy decision, and radiation dose reduction in brain CT perfusion in patients with suspected stroke
Authors: Rau Alexander , Reisert Marco , Stein Thomas , Mueller-Peltzer Katharina , Rau Stephan , Bamberg Fabian , Taschner Christian A. , Urbach Horst , Kellner Elias
Published: March 2024

Purpose

CT perfusion of the brain is a powerful tool in stroke imaging, though the radiation dose is rather high. Several strategies for dose reduction have been proposed, including increasing the intervals between the dynamic scans. We determined the impact of temporal resolution on perfusion metrics, therapy decision, and radiation dose reduction in brain CT perfusion from a large dataset of patients with suspected stroke.

Methods

We retrospectively included 3555 perfusion scans from our clinical routine dataset. All cases were processed using the perfusion software VEOcore with a standard sampling of 1.5 s, as well as simulated reduced temporal resolution of 3.0, 4.5, and 6.0 s by leaving out respective time points. The resulting perfusion maps and calculated volumes of infarct core and mismatch were compared quantitatively. Finally, hypothetical decisions for mechanical thrombectomy following the DEFUSE-3 criteria were compared.

Results

The agreement between calculated volumes for core (ICC = 0.99, 0.99, and 0.98) and hypoperfusion (ICC = 0.99, 0.99, and 0.97) was excellent for all temporal sampling schemes. Of the 1226 cases with vascular occlusion, 14 (1%) for 3.0 s sampling, 23 (2%) for 4.5 s sampling, and 63 (5%) for 6.0 s sampling would have been treated differently if the DEFUSE-3 criteria had been applied. Reduction of temporal resolution to 3.0 s, 4.5 s, and 6.0 s reduced the radiation dose by a factor of 2, 3, or 4.

Conclusion

Reducing the temporal sampling of brain perfusion CT has only a minor impact on image quality and treatment decision, but significantly reduces the radiation dose to that of standard non-contrast CT.
Versatile ferrous oxidation–xylenol orange assay for high-throughput screening of lipoxygenase activity
Authors: Chrisnasari Ruth , Ewing Tom A. , Hilgers Roelant , van Berkel Willem J. H. , Vincken Jean-Paul , Hennebelle Marie
Published: March 2024

Lipoxygenases (LOXs) catalyze dioxygenation of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) into fatty acid hydroperoxides (FAHPs), which can be further transformed into a number of value-added compounds. LOXs have garnered interest as biocatalysts for various industrial applications. Therefore, a high-throughput LOX activity assay is essential to evaluate their performance under different conditions. This study aimed to enhance the suitability of the ferrous-oxidized xylenol orange (FOX) assay for screening LOX activity across a wide pH range with different PUFAs. The narrow linear detection range of the standard FOX assay restricts its utility in screening LOX activity. To address this, the concentration of perchloric acid in the xylenol orange reagent was adjusted. The modified assay exhibited a fivefold expansion in the linear detection range for hydroperoxides and accommodated samples with pH values ranging from 3 to 10. The assay could quantify various hydroperoxide species, indicating its applicability in assessing LOX substrate preferences. Due to sensitivity to pH, buffer types, and hydroperoxide species, the assay required calibration using the respective standard compound diluted in the same buffer as the measured sample. The use of correction factors is suggested when financial constraints limit the use of FAHP standard compounds in routine LOX substrate preference analysis. FAHP quantification by the modified FOX assay aligned well with results obtained using the commonly used conjugated diene method, while offering a quicker and broader sample pH range assessment. Thus, the modified FOX assay can be used as a reliable high-throughput screening method for determining LOX activity.

Key points

• Modifying perchloric acid level in FOX reagent expands its linear detection range

• The modified FOX assay is applicable for screening LOX activity in a wide pH range

• The modified FOX assay effectively assesses substrate specificity of LOX
Characterization of the ADP-β-d-manno-heptose biosynthetic enzymes from two pathogenic Vibrio strains
Authors: Shi Zhaoxiang , Tang Yue , Wang Zhenyi , Wang Min , Zhong Zijian , Jia Jingming , Chen Yihua
Published: March 2024

ADP-activated β-d-manno-heptoses (ADP-β-d-manno-heptoses) are precursors for the biosynthesis of the inner core of lipopolysaccharide in Gram-negative bacteria. Recently, ADP-d-glycero-β-d-manno-heptose (ADP-d,d-manno-heptose) and its C-6′′ epimer, ADP-l-glycero-β-d-manno-heptose (ADP-l,d-manno-heptose), were identified as potent pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) that can trigger robust innate immune responses. Although the production of ADP-d,d-manno-heptose has been studied in several different pathogenic Gram-negative bacteria, current knowledge of ADP-β-d-manno-heptose biosynthesis in Vibrio strains remains limited. Here, we characterized the biosynthetic enzymes of ADP-d,d-manno-heptose and the epimerase that converts it to ADP-l,d-manno-heptose from Vibrio cholerae (the causative agent of pandemic cholera) and Vibrio parahaemolyticus (non-cholera pathogen causing vibriosis with clinical manifestations of gastroenteritis and wound infections) in comparison with their isozymes from Escherichia coli. Moreover, we discovered that β-d-mannose 1-phosphate, but not α-d-mannose 1-phosphate, could be activated to its ADP form by the nucleotidyltransferase domains of bifunctional kinase/nucleotidyltransferases HldEVC (from V. cholerae) and HldEVP (from V. parahaemolyticus). Kinetic analyses of the nucleotidyltransferase domains of HldEVC and HldEVP together with the E. coli–derived HldEEC were thus carried out using β-d-mannose 1-phosphate as a mimic sugar substrate. Overall, our works suggest that V. cholerae and V. parahaemolyticus are capable of synthesizing ADP-β-d-manno-heptoses and lay a foundation for further physiological function explorations on manno-heptose metabolism in Vibrio strains.

Key points

• Vibrio strains adopt the same biosynthetic pathway as E. coli in synthesizing ADP-β-d-manno-heptoses.

• HldEs from two Vibrio strains and E. coli could activate β-d-mannose 1-phosphate to ADP-β-d-mannose.

• Comparable nucleotidyltransfer efficiencies were observed in the kinetic studies of HldEs.
Effect of Injectable Acellular Adipose Matrix on Soft Tissue Reconstruction in a Murine Model
Authors: Kim Jaewoo , Tran Vinh Vuong The , Hong Ki Yong , Chang Hak
Published: March 2024

Background

The extracellular matrix isolated from adipose tissue, known as acellular adipose matrix (AAM), represents a novel biomaterial. AAM functions as a scaffold that not only supports stem cell proliferation and differentiation but also induces adipogenesis and angiogenesis. This study aims to investigate the volumetric effects and microenvironmental changes associated with injectable AAM in comparison to conventional fat grafting.

Methods

AAM was manufactured from fresh human abdominoplasty fat using a mechanically modified method and then transformed into an injectable form. Lipoaspirate was harvested employing the Coleman technique. A weight and volume study was conducted on athymic nude mice by injecting either injectable AAM or lipoaspirate into the scalp (n=6 per group). After eight weeks, graft retention was assessed through weight measurement and volumetric analysis using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) scanning. Histological analysis was performed using immunofluorescence staining for perilipin and CD31.

Results

Injectable AAM exhibited similar weight and volume effects in murine models. Histological analysis revealed comparable inflammatory cell presence with minimal capsule formation when compared to conventional fat grafts. Adipogenesis occurred in both AAM-injected and conventional fat graft models, with no significant difference in the blood vessel area (%) between the two.

Conclusions

In summary, injectable AAM demonstrates effectiveness comparable to conventional fat grafting concerning volume effects and tissue regeneration in soft tissue reconstruction. This promising allogeneic injectable holds the potential to serve as a safe and effective “Off-the-Shelf” alternative in both aesthetic and reconstructive clinical practices.

No Level Assigned

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
Cheeklift With and Without Posterior Lamellar Spacer Grafts for Treatment of Lower Eyelid Retraction
Authors: Campla Christie K. , Awh Caroline , Rebollo Nicole P. , Perry Julian D.
Published: March 2024

Background

To compare outcomes of lower eyelid retraction repair using a subperiosteal midface lifting technique with and without posterior lamellar grafts.

Methods

Charts of patients undergoing a sub-periosteal midface lift for treatment of lower eyelid retraction using 4 techniques for posterior lamellar reconstruction were reviewed. Thirty patients were included in each of the groups: midface with hard palate graft (HPG), midface lift with acellular cadaveric graft (ADG), midface lift with retractor disinsertion (RD) and midface lift alone (NG). Measurements of distance from pupil center to lower lid margin (MRD2) and from lateral limbus to lower lid margin (MRD2limbus) were taken from pre- and postoperative photographs and compared. Secondary outcomes included rates of reoperation, major and minor complications, resolution of symptoms and keratopathy.

Results

One hundred twenty operations were assessed (n = 30 for each surgical group). The average follow-up time was 20 weeks. The median MRD2 elevation was 0.95 mm (NG), 0.85 mm (HPG), 1.59 mm (ADG) and 1.02 mm (RD). The median MRD2limbus elevation was 1.06 mm (NG), 0.92 mm (HPG), 1.45 mm (ADG) and 1.12 mm (RD). There were no significant differences in MRD2 or MRD2limbus between the 4 groups (p = 0.06 and 0.29, respectively). Reoperation rates were highest with in the hard palate graft group (33%) compared to other techniques (p = 0.0006).

Conclusions

Similar degrees of lower eyelid elevation were achieved with all the midface lifting techniques, and complication rates did not significantly differ between techniques. However, the higher reoperation rates with the use of spacer grafts suggest that a no-graft technique may be preferable.

Level of Evidence III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
The Society of Information and the European Citizens’ Perception of Climate Change: Natural or Anthropological Causes
Authors: Mata Fernando , Dos-Santos Maria , Cano-Díaz Concha , Jesus Meirielly , Vaz-Velho Manuela
Published: March 2024

The scientific community has reached a consensus on humans’ important role as causative agents of climate change; however, branches of society are still sceptical about this. Climate change is a key issue for humanity and only the commitment to change human attitudes and lifestyles, at the global level, can be effective in its mitigation. With this purpose, it is important to convey the right message and prevent misinformation to manipulate people’s minds. The present study aims to understand the factors shaping European citizens’ thoughts on the causes of climate change. Using data from the European Social Survey 10 collected in 2022, we fitted statistical models using the people’s thoughts on causes of climate change (natural, anthropogenic or both) as dependent variables. As independent variables, we used the impact of the media through time spent on news and time spent on the internet, level of education, level of trust in scientists, awareness of online or mobile misinformation and gender. We concluded that the typical European citizen who believes in anthropogenic causes of climate change is a female, is more literate, trusts more in scientists, is younger, spends more time reading the news and has more awareness of misinformation presence in online and mobile communications.
Assessing the efficiency of the irrigation system in a horticulture field through time-lapse electrical resistivity tomography
Authors: Innocenti Agnese , Pazzi Veronica , Napoli Marco , Fanti Riccardo , Orlandini Simone
Published: March 2024

The characterization by means of geophysical techniques of agricultural soils subjected to continuous irrigation cycles makes it possible to study the heterogeneity of a soil and the preferential pathways of water flows without disturbing soil and plants. A better knowledge of soil heterogeneity enables optimal water resource management in terms of crop, yield, and sustainability. In this study, time-lapse monitoring using electrical resistivity tomographies (ERT) is proposed as a reliable and non-invasive technique to quantify the movement of water flows and thus the variation of soil water content during the irrigation process. ERT surveys have been conducted in melon-growing soils in southern Tuscany (Italy). Five survey campaigns have been carried out between June and August 2022, in which ERT data have been collected by taking measurements before (T0), during (T1), and after (T2) the irrigation phase. The interpretation of the ERT results provided information on the spatial and temporal distribution of water fluxes in the soil and root zone of melons during the irrigation phases. The investigation made it possible to identify the preferential pathways of infiltration of irrigation water, the points where water is absorbed by the roots, and the points where water follows a preferential pathway instead distributing itself entirely below the root growth zone. Thus, this research suggests that the ERT technique can be used to evaluate the efficiency of the irrigation system in order to achieve optimal management of the water resource, avoiding preferential flow paths that lead to less water availability for the plant.
The application of JAK inhibitors in the peri-transplantation period of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for myelofibrosis
Authors: Wang Zerong , Jin Xuelian , Zeng Jiajia , Xiong Zilin , Chen Xinchuan
Published: March 2024

Myelofibrosis (MF) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) with a poor prognosis, and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is the only treatment with curative potential. Ruxolitinib, a JAK1/2 inhibitor, has shown promising results in improving patients’ symptoms, overall survival, and quality of life, and can be used as a bridging therapy to HSCT that increases the proportion of transplantable patients. However, the effect of this and similar drugs on HSCT outcomes is unknown, and the reports on their efficacy and safety in the peri-transplantation period vary widely in the published literature. This paper reviews clinical data related to the use of JAK inhibitors in the peri-implantation phase of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for primary myelofibrosis and discusses their efficacy and safety.
Hydrogen generation from sodium borohydride hydrolysis using a heterogeneous biocatalyst prepared with Zabrus tenebrionides Goeze 1777 (Coleoptera: Carabidae) chitin
Authors: Hoşgün Seda , Fidan Ebru Ceren , Hoşgün Emir Zafer , Şirin Davut Ümit
Published: March 2024

Co–B/Chi, which is made up of highly distributed Co–B particles, was synthesized by impregnation and chemical reduction methods. Scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller adsorption and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses were used to describe the morphology and microstructure of Co–B/Chi. The synthesized catalyst showed high catalytic activity in the hydrolysis reaction of NaBH4. The unsupported Co–B samples were compared with the chitin-supported Co–B catalyst, and the result showed that higher catalytic activity and good cycling stability for NaBH4 hydrolysis were obtained with the chitin-supported catalyst. The reaction conditions were investigated to achieve high hydrogen production. The maximum rate of hydrogen production was obtained at 40 °C and 20 mg catalyst amount. At ideal conditions, the hydrolysis reaction’s activation energy was determined to be 51.65 kJ mol−1. It is indicate that Co–B/Chi is a viable low-cost catalyst for the hydrolysis of NaBH4 for hydrogen production.
Asymptomatic Dysphagia and Aspiration in Patients with Idiopathic Bronchiectasis
Authors: Perluk Tal , Abu Bandora Eiman , Freund Ophir , Jacob Tommy , Friedman Regev Inbal , Kleinhendler Eyal , Shteinberg Michal , Bar-Shai Amir , Oestriecher-Kedem Yael
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Although considered contributors to idiopathic bronchiectasis (IB), neither dysphagia nor silent aspiration have been systematically evaluated in IB patients. We aimed to explore the prevalence of asymptomatic dysphagia and silent aspiration in IB patients and to identify parameters predictive of their presence.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included IB patients from our Pulmonary Institute without prior history of dysphagia and without prior dysphagia workup. Swallowing function was assessed by the Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10) questionnaire and by the Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) test.

Results

Forty-seven patients (31 females, mean age 67 ± 16 years) were recruited. An EAT-10 score ≥ 3 (risk for swallowing problems) was present in 21 patients (44.6%). Forty-two patients (89.3%) had at least one abnormal swallowing parameter in the FEES test. Six patients (12.7%) had a penetration aspiration score (PAS) in the FEES of at least 6, indicating aspiration. An EAT-10 score of 3 was found to be the ideal cutoff to predict aspiration in the FEES, with a good level of accuracy (area under the curve = 0.78, 95% CI 0.629–0.932, p = 0.03) and sensitivity of 83%. This cutoff also showed a trend towards a more severe disease using the FACED (forced expiratory volume, age, colonization with pseudomonas, extension of lung involvement, dyspnea) score (p = 0.05).

Conclusion

Dysphagia is prevalent in IB and may be undiagnosed if not specifically sought. We recommend screening all patients with IB for dysphagia by the EAT-10 questionnaire and referring all those with a score of ≥ 3 to formal swallowing assessment.