bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subsurface conditioning in BTA deep hole drilling for improved component performance
Authors: Strodick Simon , Schmidt Robert , Donnerbauer Kai , Rozo Vasquez Julian , Zabel Andreas , Macias Barrientos Marina , Biermann Dirk , Walther Frank
Published: January 2024

When bores with high length-to-diameter ratios (l/D > 10) and large diameters (D > 40 mm) are required, usually, the Boring and Trepanning Association (BTA) deep hole drilling process is used. Common industrial applications of this process are aerospace engineering and petrol exploration, where drilled components range from landing gears and engine shafts to drill collars. Since such parts tend to be particularly costly and highly safety–critical, ensuring favorable surface integrity during drilling is crucial to guarantee their reliability and performance. This study aims to identify correlations between the BTA deep hole drilling process and the resulting surface integrity using experimental and simulative approaches. The impact of feed and cutting speed on the thermomechanical loads and the resulting surface integrity are analyzed, also taking into account the occurrence of dynamic process disturbances. Particularly, the formation of white etching layers (WEL) is investigated using well-established, conventional techniques such as optical microscopy and microhardness testing. Additionally, innovative micromagnetic methods are employed. Magnetic Barkhausen noise (MBN) analysis is qualified as a well-applicable approach for rapid, non-destructive detection of WEL. To enhance understanding of MBN analysis and increase its robustness, the underlying mechanisms, governing the magnetic behavior of the subsurface are elucidated in detail by X-ray diffraction (XRD), electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), magnetic force microscopy (MFM) and magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE) microscopy. The methodology will serve as a basis for controlled subsurface conditioning in BTA deep hole drilling.
Vernalization affects the germination performance of the wetland endangered species Eleocharis carniolica
Authors: Trotta Giacomo , Ceriani Roberta M. , Casolo Valentino , Bellingardi Jessica , Boscutti Francesco , Vuerich Marco , Petrussa Elisa
Published: January 2024

Eleocharis carniolica W.D.J. Koch (Cyperaceae) is an endangered wetland spike rush mainly threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation. Understanding the germination ecology of this species is essential to perform successful conservation and restoration actions. In this study, we investigated the effect of vernalization (i.e. cold stratification), gibberellic acid (GA3) and chemical scarification on seed germination of E. carniolica from wild populations in northern Italy. The results showed that vernalization (i.e. 8-weeks at 4 °C) significantly improved germination probability, speed, and uniformity compared to non-stratified seeds. Gibberellic acid treatment alone or in combination with vernalization did not show a significant improvement in germination. Chemical scarification using sodium hypochlorite increased germination probability, with 8 h of scarification showing the highest success rate. However, 24-h scarification had a negative impact on germination. Overall, vernalization was found to be the most effective method to enhance germination in E. carniolica. These findings provide valuable insights into the seed germination ecology of this endangered species, aiding in its exsitu conservation, propagation, and in-situ restoration efforts. Moreover, they have important implications on future germination dynamics of this endangered species, especially with predicted climate change scenarios.
Following up with Forest Inheritors: A Survival Analysis of Recently Inherited and Recently Sold Non-Industrial Forest Land in the State of Washington, USA
Authors: Danley Brian , Rabotyagov Sergey , Cooke Andrew
Published: January 2024

A growing body of literature shows that the transfer of forest land from one owner to another in the US is associated with events such as parcelization of forest land and/or the subsequent conversion of the land away from forestry land use. For individuals and families who own forest land, a key driver of ownership transfer is the eventual or actual mortality of forest owners themselves. In the State of Washington as well as the US nationally, studies on forest legacy planning reveal that most forest owners want their children or grandchildren to own their forest properties after they no longer own the forest. In contrast, the same surveys also show that a majority of US forest owners acquired their forest land by purchasing the land from a non-relative. We utilize the Washington State Forestland Database to conduct a non-parametric survival analysis of how long recently inherited forest properties remain fully owned by the new owners (i.e. there is no subsequent sale associated with the property) compared to forest land that was sold. Results show that inherited parcels have a significantly lower survival probability as measured by remaining solely within the ownership of the new owner relative to parcels that were sold within an 8-year period. This study quantifies how the mode of forest transfer influences the duration of the following ownership lifecycle and indicates that stewardship efforts should be tailored for owners who have recently inherited forest lands.
Durability of photocatalytic ZnO-based surface coatings and preservation of their antibacterial effect after simulated wear
Authors: Kook Mati , Kaur Harleen , Danilian Dmytro , Rosenberg Merilin , Kisand Vambola , Ivask Angela
Published: January 2024

This study focused on antibacterial durability testing of surface coatings based on acrylic matrix-embedded UVA-activated ZnO. Such coatings on stainless steel were treated by dry rubbing, wet rubbing, and abrasive treatment to simulate wearing during everyday touching, cleaning, and aggressive scrubbing. Abrasive treatment caused clear topological changes to the surfaces, flattened the surface at the micrometer scale, and released a significant amount of surface material, which was partly acrylic matrix and partly the embedded ZnO. The highest release of Zn, the most prominent photocatalytic activity under UVA and the greatest antibacterial effect, was observed for abrasively treated surfaces. Although a small amount of surface material was released from surfaces after dry and wet rubbing, no significant increase in Zn release or photocatalytic activity was detected. On the contrary, antibacterial activity after those treatments decreased in comparison with untreated surfaces, likely due to partial surface masking by the released acrylic matrix. In summary, our results indicate that antimicrobial ZnO material immobilized in acrylic matrix creates stable surface coatings that may lose some of their efficacy during daily use and cleaning procedures, but activity of which will be retained during a more aggressive abrasion procedure.
A retrospective review of methylamphetamine detected in child deaths reported to the Victorian Coroner, Australia
Authors: Mantinieks Dylan , Parsons Sarah , Schumann Jennifer , Drummer Olaf H. , Crump Kerryn , Baber Yeliena , Archer Melanie , Gerostamoulos Dimitri
Published: January 2024

This study investigated methylamphetamine (MA) exposures in the deaths of children (≤ 12 years old) reported to the Coroner in the state of Victoria, Australia, between 2011 and 2020. Demographics, autopsy findings including the cause of death, self-reported prenatal or caregiver drug use, child protection services information, and toxicological findings were summarized by descriptive statistics. Validated methods of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry were used in the analysis of drugs. There were 50 child deaths with MA detected in blood, urine, and/or hair with 64% (n = 32) identified in 2018–2020. Most children were 1–365 days old (66%, n = 33) and the cause of death was unascertained in 62% (n = 31) of cases. MA was toxicologically confirmed in hair (94%, n = 47) significantly more than blood (18%, n = 9). Prenatal or caregiver drug use was self-reported in 44% (n = 22) and 42% (n = 21) of cases, respectively. Moreover, only 54% (n = 27) of deceased children were a child protection client at their time of death. These findings suggest the number of deceased children exposed to MA has increased over the past 10 years, which is consistent with the greater supply of crystal MA in the Australian community. Hair analysis provided additional means to identify cases that were unknown to child protection services and may have implications for other children in the same drug exposure environment.
Burden of illness in Japanese patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria receiving C5 inhibitors
Authors: Obara Naoshi , Usuki Kensuke , Hayashi Takeshi , Fujii Masato , Ikezoe Takayuki
Published: January 2024

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare, acquired, life-threatening blood disorder characterized by hemolysis and resulting in anemia and fatigue. Current therapies for PNH in Japan rely on complement inhibitors targeting the C5 component of the complement. However, the disease burden of Japanese patients with PNH treated with C5 inhibitors (C5i) remains unclear. To investigate this topic, we conducted a cross-sectional survey study that included 59 Japanese patients with PNH treated with C5i. Although many participants received C5i for 1 year or longer, the mean hemoglobin (Hb) level was 10.2 g/dL. Fatigue and shortness of breath were the most common symptoms at the time of diagnosis and survey. In addition, patients with Hb levels ≥ 10.5 g/dL also reported fatigue, depression and reduced quality of life, albeit to a lesser extent. These results suggest that a substantial burden of illness remains in patients with C5i-treated PNH, likely resulting in low quality of life and effects of symptoms on daily life. This study contributes to understanding the unmet needs of the current therapies for PNH, highlighting the need for novel therapeutics.
The Minimal Spherical Dispersion
Authors: Prochno Joscha , Rudolf Daniel
Published: January 2024

We prove upper and lower bounds on the minimal spherical dispersion, improving upon previous estimates obtained by Rote and Tichy in (Anz Österreich Akad Wiss Math Nat Kl 132:3–10, 1995). In particular, we see that the inverse $$N(\varepsilon ,d)$$

N
(
ε
,
d
)

of the minimal spherical dispersion is, for fixed $$\varepsilon >0$$

ε
>
0

, linear in the dimension d of the ambient space. We also derive upper and lower bounds on the expected dispersion for points chosen independently and uniformly at random from the Euclidean unit sphere. In terms of the corresponding inverse $$\widetilde{N}(\varepsilon ,d)$$

N
~

(
ε
,
d
)

, our bounds are optimal with respect to the dependence on $$\varepsilon $$
ε
.
New infraspecific taxa and combinations in Malesian Elaeocarpus
Authors: Coode Mark J. E.
Published: January 2024

Infraspecific names and combinations are provided for 19 variants of Elaeocarpus L. in the Flora Malesiana region.
Existence of Positive Solutions for a Singular Hessian Equation with a Negative Augmented Term
Authors: Zhang Xinguang , Chen Peng , Wu Yonghong , Wiwatanapataphee Benchawan
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we focus on the existence of positive solutions for a singular Hessian equation with a negative augmented term. By finding more appropriate upper and lower solutions, we not only overcome the difficulty due to the negative augmented term but also remove a critical condition required in the existing work and establish new results for the existence of positive solutions of the equations under study. Our results improve and complement many existing works.
Unraveling the Phidiana paradox: Phidiana lynceus can retain algal symbionts but its nocturnal tendencies prevent benefits from photosynthesis
Authors: Borgstein Natascha M. , Burgués Palau Laia , Parodi Bianca A. , Laetz Elise M. J.
Published: January 2024

Numerous marine invertebrates form symbiotic relationships with single-celled algae, termed “photosymbioses”, and the diversity of these interactions is likely underestimated. We examined Phidiana lynceus, a cladobranch sea slug that feeds on photosymbiotic hydrozoans. We assessed its ability to acquire/retain algal symbionts by examining specimens in starvation, finding that P. lynceus is able to incorporate and retain symbionts for up to 20 days. Examining body size during starvation revealed that P. lynceus does not receive enough energy from hosting symbionts to maintain its body mass let alone grow. Intact symbionts were still present in deceased specimens, indicating that P. lynceus does not digest all of its symbionts, even when starving to death. We also examined slug behavior in the field and lab to determine if it seeks light to facilitate photosynthesis, which could provide energetic and oxygenic benefits. In the field, slugs were always observed hiding under stones during the day and they displayed light avoidance in the lab, suggesting this species actively prevents photosynthesis and the benefits it could receive. Lastly, we measured their metabolic rates during the day and night and when treated with and without a photosynthetic inhibitor. Higher metabolic rates at night indicate that this species displays nocturnal tendencies, expending more energy when it emerges at night to forage. Paradoxically, P. lynceus has evolved all of the requisite adaptations to profit from photosymbiosis but it chooses to live in the dark instead, calling into question the nature of this symbiosis and what each partner might receive from their interaction.
The effect of social network structure on group anchoring bias
Authors: Palombi Giulia , Nonino Fabio , Borgatti Stephen P.
Published: January 2024

Decisions—whether made by individuals or groups—often involve estimating quantities, a process that is subject to anchoring bias (Tversky and Kahneman in Science 185: 1124–1131, 1974). Differences in susceptibility to anchoring bias between individuals and groups have been recently explored with the result that groups appear less biased than individuals (Meub and Proeger in Theor Decis 85:117–150, 2018). However, existing studies treat groups monolithically without taking into account their network structure—the pattern of relationships among members. The present paper investigates the effects of group social network structure on anchoring bias. Using a structured survey instrument, we gathered data on competence-based trust relationships among 264 students enrolled in a university degree program. An anchoring experiment was conducted in which some of the students made estimates as individuals, while others did so in groups of different structures. The findings provide initial evidence of differences in bias levels across variously structured groups as well as relative to individuals. Groups with highly centralized trust networks (where a single person owned everyone’s trust) showed more anchoring bias than dense groups (where everyone trusted everyone else) and sparse groups (where no one trusted any other member of the group) showed more bias than dense groups. In addition, despite previous research demonstrating groups are less susceptible than individuals to anchoring bias, this study shows a higher presence of bias in both our centralized groups and sparse groups when compared to individuals, suggesting that group structure might moderate the mitigating effect of groups on anchoring bias. The research has implications for organizational behavior and social network literature. Specifically, this study contributes to the debate on anchoring bias for group decisions by highlighting the significant role of social network structure. At the same time, it contributes to the literature on network structure and performance by providing initial evidence of how network structure affects anchoring bias susceptibility. Moreover, our study contributes to management practice by alerting managers to the dangers of centralized networks, suggesting that competence-based trust plays a vital role in the resistance to anchoring bias.
In silico study of the electronic portal imaging devices sensitivity to parotid glands shrinkage during radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal cases
Authors: Alzahrani Hanan Mohammed
Published: January 2024

This computational investigation examines the capability of electronic portal imaging devices (EPIDs) in detecting anatomical changes during radiation therapy. A photon beam for 6 MV was simulated using compliant phase-space files via BEAMnrc (an EGSnrc user code). Initially, the dose calculation was carried out using DOSXYZnrc, an EGSnrc user code, on a water-based calibration phantom made of water. Phantoms, constructed utilizing patient computed tomography data, were subsequently used to simulate clinically relevant parotid gland (PG) shrinkage through image deformation using ImSimQA software. Two EPID geometries were implemented; a simple water slab, and a comprehensive multi-layer representation of the EPID (referred to as the 17-slab model). Using a 1%/1 mm gamma index the 17-slab geometry was sensitive to volume reductions in the PG ≥ − 26% from its original volume, while the water slab detected volume reduction of ≥ − 28.5%. In a clinical setting, replanning of head and neck patients is initiated when a reduction of 24–30% in PG volume is detected through cone-beam computed tomography. The sensitivity index, indicative of the signal to error ratio between the reference and evaluated images, showed an increase as the gland volume decreased for both models. Notably, the 17-slab model consistently more sensitive than the water slab. This computational study highlights the prospective use of EPIDs in monitoring and detecting clinically significant volume changes in the PG during radiation treatment. Advances in knowledge: While EPIDs are frequently employed for patient setup and alignment, this computational work constructed a virtual EPID to assess its detection abilities for the anatomical changes in the PG due to radiation exposure in head and neck cancer cases.
Economic Performance of Rainfed Wheat-Double Crop Systems under Weed Competition
Authors: Maples Chellie H. , Lambert Dayton M. , Manuchehri Misha R.
Published: January 2024

This study examines the economic performance of rainfed cropping systems endemic to the Southern Great Plains under weed competition. Cropping systems include tilled and no-till wheat-fallow, wheat-soybean, and wheat-sorghum rotations. Net returns from systems are compared under different levels of weed pressure. Producers operating over longer planning horizons would choose to double-crop regardless of the tillage method used and weed pressure level. Producers operating under shorter planning horizons would implement wheat-fallow systems when weed pressure is high and double crop when weed pressure is low.
Identification of carbapenem-resistant organism (CRO) contamination of in-room sinks in intensive care units in a new hospital bed tower
Authors: Warren Bobby G. , Smith Becky A. , Barrett Aaron , Graves Amanda M. , Nelson Alicia , Gettler Erin , Lewis Sarah S. , Anderson Deverick J.
Published: January 2024

Background:

The origins and timing of inpatient room sink contamination with carbapenem-resistant organisms (CROs) are poorly understood.

Methods:

We performed a prospective observational study to describe the timing, rate, and frequency of CRO contamination of in-room handwashing sinks in 2 intensive care units (ICU) in a newly constructed hospital bed tower. Study units, A and B, were opened to patient care in succession. The patients in unit A were moved to a new unit in the same bed tower, unit B. Each unit was similarly designed with 26 rooms and in-room sinks. Microbiological samples were taken every 4 weeks from 3 locations from each study sink: the top of the bowl, the drain cover, and the p-trap. The primary outcome was sink conversion events (SCEs), defined as CRO contamination of a sink in which CRO had not previously been detected.

Results:

Sink samples were obtained 22 times from September 2020 to June 2022, giving 1,638 total environmental cultures. In total, 2,814 patients were admitted to study units while sink sampling occurred. We observed 35 SCEs (73%) overall; 9 sinks (41%) in unit A became contaminated with CRO by month 10, and all 26 sinks became contaminated in unit B by month 7. Overall, 299 CRO isolates were recovered; the most common species were Enterobacter cloacae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Conclusion:

CRO contamination of sinks in 2 newly constructed ICUs was rapid and cumulative. Our findings support in-room sinks as reservoirs of CRO and emphasize the need for prevention strategies to mitigate contamination of hands and surfaces from CRO-colonized sinks.
POLISH SPACE PARTITION PRINCIPLES AND THE HALPERN–LÄUCHLI THEOREM
Authors: LAMBIE-HANSON CHRIS , ZUCKER ANDY
Published: January 2024

The Halpern–Läuchli theorem, a combinatorial result about trees, admits an elegant proof due to Harrington using ideas from forcing. In an attempt to distill the combinatorial essence of this proof, we isolate various partition principles about products of perfect Polish spaces. These principles yield straightforward proofs of the Halpern–Läuchli theorem, and the same forcing from Harrington’s proof can force their consistency. We also show that these principles are not ZFC theorems by showing that they put lower bounds on the size of the continuum.
Mushroom intake and risk of incident disabling dementia: the Circulatory Risk in Communities Study (CIRCS)
Authors: Aoki Shoko , Yamagishi Kazumasa , Maruyama Kotatsu , Ikeda Ai , Nagao Masanori , Noda Hiroyuki , Umesawa Mitsumasa , Hayama-Terada Mina , Muraki Isao , Okada Chika , Tanaka Mari , Kishida Rie , Kihara Tomomi , Takada Midori , Shimizu Yuji , Ohira Tetsuya , Imano Hironori , Sankai Tomoko , Okada Takeo , Tanigawa Takeshi , Kitamura Akihiko , Kiyama Masahiko , Iso Hiroyasu
Published: January 2024

It is uncertain whether dietary intake of mushrooms rich in dietary fibre and several antioxidants is associated with a lower risk of dementia. We sought to examine prospectively the association between mushroom intake and the risk of disabling dementia. We performed a prospective study involving 3750 people aged 40 to 64 years residing in three communities who participated in an annual cardiovascular risk survey from 1985 to 1999. Cases of incident disabling dementia were surveyed from 1999 to 2020. We calculated the hazard ratios (HR) and 95 % CI for incident total dementia according to mushroom intake among participants with or without a history of stroke. During a mean 16·0 years’ follow-up in 3739 eligible participants, 670 people developed disabling dementia. For women, mushroom intake was inversely associated with the risk of total dementia and the association was confined to dementia without a history of stroke. The multivariable HR (95 % CI) for total dementia in women were 0·81 (0·62, 1·06) for mushroom intake of 0·1–14·9 g/d and 0·56 (0·42, 0·75) for mushroom intake above 15·0 g/d (Pfor trend = 0·003) compared with no intake. The corresponding HR (95 % CI) for dementia without a history of stroke were 0·66 (0·47, 0·93) and 0·55 (0·38, 0·79) (Pfor trend = 0·01). In men, no associations were observed between mushroom intake and the risk of disabling dementia. Among Japanese women, dietary mushroom intake was associated with a lower risk of disabling dementia.
Research priorities and considerations for nutrition research: methods of sex and gender analysis for biomedical and nutrition research
Authors: Klinge Ineke , de Vet Emely
Published: January 2024

For some 20 years, science funding bodies have been asking for the integration of sex- and gender-related factors into the content of research and innovation. The rationale for those requirements has been the accumulated evidence that sex and gender are important determinants of health and disease. The European Commission (EC) has been the first, since 2002, to seriously ask for the integration of sex and gender into research and innovation in the context of their multi-annual framework programmes. When introduced, this condition was not immediately applauded by the research community, who perhaps lacked training in methods for the integration of sex- and gender-related factors. The EC Expert Group on Gendered Innovations sought to fill this gap. This review describes the work of this international collaborative project which has resulted in the development of general and field-specific methods for sex and gender analysis and 38 case studies for various research domains (science, health and medicine, environment, engineering) to illustrate how, by applying methods of sex and gender analysis, new knowledge could be created. Since 2010, science funding bodies in Canada, the USA and several EU member states have followed the example of the EC issuing similar conditions. Although the effects of nutritional patterns on a range of (physiological and health) outcomes may differ for men and women, sex and gender analyses are rarely conducted in nutrition research. In this review, we provide examples of how gender is connected to dietary intake, and how advancing gender analysis may inform gender-sensitive policies and dietary recommendations.
The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on multilingual families in the Netherlands
Authors: UNSWORTH Sharon , VAN DEN AKKER Marieke , VAN DIJK Caya
Published: January 2024

As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, public life in many countries ground to a halt in early 2020. The aims of this study were (i) to uncover the language practices of multilingual families during the pandemic, in general and especially regarding homeschooling; and (ii) to determine to what extent the changes in circumstance caused by the pandemic impacted children’s language use and proficiency, and family well-being. Parents from 587 families completed an online survey for 1051 children. Data were analysed using ordinal logistic regression. Our results showed that for most children, there were no changes in language use, proficiency or well-being. When there were changes, these were more likely for (families with) preschool children. Using the heritage language for homeschooling (some or all of the time) did not have a negative impact on Dutch language proficiency, but it did have a positive impact on the heritage language proficiency.
Heterogeneous Basal Thermal Conditions Underpinning the Adélie‐George V Coast, East Antarctica
Authors: Dawson Eliza J. , Schroeder Dustin M. , Chu Winnie , Mantelli Elisa , Seroussi Helene
Published: January 2024

Adélie‐George V Land in East Antarctica, encompassing the vast Wilkes Subglacial Basin, has a configuration that could be prone to ice sheet instability: the basin's retrograde bed slope could make its marine terminating glaciers vulnerable to warm seawater intrusion and irreversible retreat under predicted climate forcing. However, future projections are uncertain, due in part to limited subglacial observations near the grounding zone. Here, we develop a novel statistical approach to characterize subglacial conditions from radar sounding observations. Our method reveals intermixed frozen and thawed bed within 100 km of the grounding‐zone near the Wilkes Subglacial Basin outflow, and enables comparisons to ice sheet model‐inferred thermal states. The signs of intermixed or near thawed conditions raises the possibility that changes in basal thermal state could impact the stability of Adélie‐George V Land, adding to the region's potentially vulnerable topographic configuration and sensitivity to ocean forcing driven grounding line retreat.
Large Igneous Province Emplacement Triggered an Oxygenation Event at ∼1.4 Ga: Evidence From Mercury and Paleo‐Productivity Proxies
Authors: Xu Lei , Lechte Maxwell , Shi Xiaoying , Zheng Wang , Zhou Limin , Huang Kangjun , Zhou Xiqiang , Tang Dongjie
Published: January 2024

The mid‐Proterozoic (∼1.8–0.8 Ga) ocean‐atmosphere system is hypothesized to have experienced fluctuations in redox conditions with transient oxygenation events. One of these happened at ∼1.4 Ga, and it is speculated that this event may link to the emplacement of large igneous province (LIP) at this time. However, direct evidence for this relationship remains to be proved. Here, we report Hg/TOC, P, and trace element concentrations across the ∼1.4 Ga oxygenation event in the Xiamaling Formation of North China. A prominent increase in Hg/TOC is slightly earlier than that of nutrient contents (especially P), pyrite and TOC abundances, suggesting that this distinct oxygenation event was likely the result of LIP activity at ∼1.4 Ga, which increased nutrient and sulfate supply from continental weathering to the ocean, sustaining elevated primary productivity, organic carbon and pyrite burial. This study indicates that LIP weathering could trigger transient oxygenation events during the mid‐Proterozoic.
Parameter Regimes of Hemispherical Dynamo Waves in a Spherical Shell From 3D MHD Simulations
Authors: Wu Yifan , Dietrich Wieland , Tao Xin
Published: January 2024

The MHD dynamo process, which generates a magnetic field through turbulent motion inside an electrically conducting fluid layer, is of fundamental importance to earth and planetary science. Numerical simulations have been employed to investigate the MHD dynamo process for several decades and can reproduce various observed magnetic field properties, including dipolar and multipolar magnetic fields with different field strengths. In this work, we focus on a particular type of dynamo solution where the magnetic fields are concentrated in either the northern or the southern hemisphere and show wave‐like regular reversals and propagations. We surveyed an extensive parameter range and found that these dynamo waves are the predominant solution when the thermal drive is sufficient to maintain a magnetic field but insufficient to drive a chaotic multipolar dynamo. These waves seem to require moderate convection forcing, characterized by a local Rossby number between 0.04 and 0.1. Further investigation shows that the waves likely are αΩ Parker dynamo waves, based on the consistency of the simulated wave frequency with the mean‐field dynamo theory. Our results have implications for the observed dichotomy of planetary magnetic fields as well as the possibility of the absence of paleomagnetic records while the dynamos were still operating.
Sema3A secreted by sensory nerve induces bone formation under mechanical loads
Authors: Mei Hongxiang , Li Zhengzheng , Lv Qinyi , Li Xingjian , Wu Yumeng , Feng Qingchen , Jiang Zhishen , Zhou Yimei , Zheng Yule , Gao Ziqi , Zhou Jiawei , Jiang Chen , Huang Shishu , Li Juan
Published: January 2024

Bone formation and deposition are initiated by sensory nerve infiltration in adaptive bone remodeling. Here, we focused on the role of Semaphorin 3A (Sema3A), expressed by sensory nerves, in mechanical loads-induced bone formation and nerve withdrawal using orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) model. Firstly, bone formation was activated after the 3rd day of OTM, coinciding with a decrease in sensory nerves and an increase in pain threshold. Sema3A, rather than nerve growth factor (NGF), highly expressed in both trigeminal ganglion and the axons of periodontal ligament following the 3rd day of OTM. Moreover, in vitro mechanical loads upregulated Sema3A in neurons instead of in human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs) within 24 hours. Furthermore, exogenous Sema3A restored the suppressed alveolar bone formation and the osteogenic differentiation of hPDLCs induced by mechanical overload. Mechanistically, Sema3A prevented overstretching of F-actin induced by mechanical overload through ROCK2 pathway, maintaining mitochondrial dynamics as mitochondrial fusion. Therefore, Sema3A exhibits dual therapeutic effects in mechanical loads-induced bone formation, both as a pain-sensitive analgesic and a positive regulator for bone formation.
Exceptional points enhance sensing in silicon micromechanical resonators
Authors: Zhang Man-Na , Dong Lei , Wang Li-Feng , Huang Qing-An
Published: January 2024

Exceptional points (EPs) have recently emerged as a new method for engineering the response of open physical systems, that is, systems that interact with the environment. The systems at the EPs exhibit a strong response to a small perturbation. Here, we show a method by which the sensitivity of silicon resonant sensors can be enhanced when operated at EPs. In our experiments, we use a pair of mechanically coupled silicon micromechanical resonators constituting a parity–time (PT)-symmetric dimer. Small perturbations introduced on the mechanically coupled spring cause the frequency to split from the EPs into the PT-symmetric regime without broadening the two spectrum linewidths, and this frequency splitting scales with the square root of the perturbation strength. The overall signal-to-noise ratio is still greatly enhanced, although the measured noise spectral density of the EP sensing scheme has a slight increase comparable to the traditional counterpart. Our results pave the way for resonant sensors with ultrahigh sensitivity.
The role of wearable home blood pressure monitoring in detecting out-of-office control status
Authors: Pan Heng-Yu , Lee Chih-Kuo , Liu Tzu-Yao , Lee Guan-Wei , Chen Chiao-Wei , Wang Tzung-Dau
Published: January 2024

Ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) and home blood pressure (HBP) monitoring is currently recommended for management of hypertension. Nonetheless, traditional HBP protocols could overlook diurnal fluctuations, which could also be linked with adverse cardiovascular outcomes. In this observational study, we studied among a group of treated hypertensive patients (N = 62, age: 52.4 ± 10.4 years) by using out-of-office ABP and wearable HBP. They received one session of 24-h ABP measurement with an oscillometric upper-arm monitor, and totally three sessions of 7-day/6-time-daily wearable HBP measurement separated in each month with HeartGuide. Controlled hypertension is defined as an average BP <130/80 mmHg for both daytime ABP and HBP. There was substantial reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC 0.883–0.911) and good reproducibility (Cohen’s kappa = 0.600) for wearable HBP measurement, especially before breakfast and after dinner. Among all patients, 27.4% had both uncontrolled HBP and ABP, 30.6% had uncontrolled HBP only, while 6.5% had uncontrolled ABP only. Female gender and increased numbers of anti-hypertensive agents are correlated with controlled hypertension. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension had a significantly higher maximal daytime blood pressure, which was previously signified as an imperial marker for cardiovascular risk. In conclusion, wearable HBP monitoring in accordance with a dedicated daily-living schedule results in good reliability and reproducibility. Patients with an uncontrolled wearable HBP should benefit from repeated HBP or ABP measurement for risk stratification.
Bispecific BCMA/CD24 CAR-T cells control multiple myeloma growth
Authors: Sun Fumou , Cheng Yan , Wanchai Visanu , Guo Wancheng , Mery David , Xu Hongwei , Gai Dongzheng , Siegel Eric , Bailey Clyde , Ashby Cody , Al Hadidi Samer , Schinke Carolina , Thanendrarajan Sharmilan , Ma Yupo , Yi Qing , Orlowski Robert Z. , Zangari Maurizio , van Rhee Frits , Janz Siegfried , Bishop Gail , Tricot Guido , Shaughnessy John D. , Zhan Fenghuang
Published: January 2024

Anti-multiple myeloma B cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-specific chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies represent a promising treatment strategy with high response rates in myeloma. However, durable cures following anti-BCMA CAR-T cell treatment of myeloma are rare. One potential reason is that a small subset of minimal residual myeloma cells seeds relapse. Residual myeloma cells following BCMA-CAR-T-mediated treatment show less-differentiated features and express stem-like genes, including CD24. CD24-positive myeloma cells represent a large fraction of residual myeloma cells after BCMA-CAR-T therapy. In this work, we develop CD24-CAR-T cells and test their ability to eliminate myeloma cells. We find that CD24-CAR-T cells block the CD24-Siglec-10 pathway, thereby enhancing macrophage phagocytic clearance of myeloma cells. Additionally, CD24-CAR-T cells polarize macrophages to a M1-like phenotype. A dual-targeted BCMA-CD24-CAR-T exhibits improved efficacy compared to monospecific BCMA-CAR-T-cell therapy. This work presents an immunotherapeutic approach that targets myeloma cells and promotes tumor cell clearance by macrophages.
Dual electrical stimulation at spinal-muscular interface reconstructs spinal sensorimotor circuits after spinal cord injury
Authors: Zhou Kai , Wei Wei , Yang Dan , Zhang Hui , Yang Wei , Zhang Yunpeng , Nie Yingnan , Hao Mingming , Wang Pengcheng , Ruan Hang , Zhang Ting , Wang Shouyan , Liu Yaobo
Published: January 2024

The neural signals produced by varying electrical stimulation parameters lead to characteristic neural circuit responses. However, the characteristics of neural circuits reconstructed by electrical signals remain poorly understood, which greatly limits the application of such electrical neuromodulation techniques for the treatment of spinal cord injury. Here, we develop a dual electrical stimulation system that combines epidural electrical and muscle stimulation to mimic feedforward and feedback electrical signals in spinal sensorimotor circuits. We demonstrate that a stimulus frequency of 10−20 Hz under dual stimulation conditions is required for structural and functional reconstruction of spinal sensorimotor circuits, which not only activates genes associated with axonal regeneration of motoneurons, but also improves the excitability of spinal neurons. Overall, the results provide insights into neural signal decoding during spinal sensorimotor circuit reconstruction, suggesting that the combination of epidural electrical and muscle stimulation is a promising method for the treatment of spinal cord injury.
In vivo real-time positron emission particle tracking (PEPT) and single particle PET
Authors: Pellico Juan , Vass Laurence , Carrascal-Miniño Amaia , Man Francis , Kim Jana , Sunassee Kavitha , Parker David , Blower Philip J. , Marsden Paul K. , T. M. de Rosales Rafael
Published: January 2024

Positron emission particle tracking (PEPT) enables 3D localization and tracking of single positron-emitting radiolabelled particles with high spatiotemporal resolution. The translation of PEPT to the biomedical imaging field has been limited due to the lack of methods to radiolabel biocompatible particles with sufficient specific activity and protocols to isolate a single particle in the sub-micrometre size range, below the threshold for capillary embolization. Here we report two key developments: the synthesis and 68Ga-radiolabelling of homogeneous silica particles of 950 nm diameter with unprecedented specific activities (2.1 ± 1.4 kBq per particle), and the isolation and manipulation of a single particle. We have combined these developments to perform in vivo PEPT and dynamic positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of a single radiolabelled sub-micrometre size particle using a pre-clinical positron emission tomography/computed tomography scanner. This work opens possibilities for quantitative assessment of haemodynamics in vivo in real time, at the whole-body level using minimal amounts of injected radioactive dose and material.
Inverse design of high-dimensional quantum optical circuits in a complex medium
Authors: Goel Suraj , Leedumrongwatthanakun Saroch , Valencia Natalia Herrera , McCutcheon Will , Tavakoli Armin , Conti Claudio , Pinkse Pepijn W. H. , Malik Mehul
Published: January 2024

Programmable optical circuits are an important tool in developing quantum technologies such as transceivers for quantum communication and integrated photonic chips for quantum information processing. Maintaining precise control over every individual component becomes challenging at large scales, leading to a reduction in the quality of operations performed. In parallel, minor imperfections in circuit fabrication are amplified in this regime, dramatically inhibiting their performance. Here we use inverse design techniques to embed optical circuits in the higher-dimensional space of a large, ambient mode mixer such as a commercial multimode fibre. This approach allows us to forgo control over each individual circuit element, and retain a high degree of programmability. We use our circuits as quantum gates to manipulate high-dimensional spatial-mode entanglement in up to seven dimensions. Their programmability allows us to turn a multimode fibre into a generalized multioutcome measurement device, allowing us to both transport and certify entanglement within the transmission channel. With the support of numerical simulations, we show that our method is a scalable approach to obtaining high circuit fidelity with a low circuit depth by harnessing the resource of a high-dimensional mode mixer.
Examining the joint coordination during dynamic balance learning using vector coding and statistical parametric mapping analyses
Authors: Kim Sungmin , Qu Feng , Wang Yi , Lam Wing-kai
Published: January 2024

We aimed to examine the changes in balance performance, kinematic variables, and joint coordination of the lower extremities during the Y-balance learning task. Twenty female university students completed five consecutive blocks of Y-balance learning from days 3 to 7 (135 trials). Pre-tests and tests were performed on days 1 and 9. Maximum reach distance, peak joint angle, and joint coordination in the anterior (AL), posterolateral (PL), and posteromedial (PM) directions were measured to determine the efficacy of Y-balance performance. A repeated measures ANOVA was performed for the maximum reach distance across learning blocks to confirm whether learning had occurred. Our results indicated that the maximum reach distance on day 5 was longer than that on other learning days. The maximum reach distance significantly increased in the PL and PM directions after learning. The hip flexion (PL/PM), abduction (PM), internal rotation (PM), and external rotation (PL) angles increased after learning. The knee joint flexion angle increased in both AL and PL directions. Only the ankle dorsiflexion angle increased in the AL direction. Joint coordination indicated that the knee and hip joints performed simultaneously during internal rotation. Ankle-knee joint coordination was performed using dorsiflexion and flexion strategies. Statistical parametric mapping analysis indicated significant differences in the ankle sagittal plane in the AL direction, hip horizontal and hip/knee sagittal planes in the PL direction, and hip/knee sagittal and hip frontal/horizontal planes in the PM direction. These data suggest that the dynamic balance ability of the novice participants improved in relation to changes in coordination patterns after learning. The results of this study can be applied to other populations to improve their dynamic balance and prevent fall injuries.
Large dynamic range stellar radiation simulation optical system
Authors: Zhang Yu , Fu Yuegang , Liu Qiang , Wang Li , Yang Songzhou , Liang Shitong , Zhang Jian , Zhong Jun , Zhao Bin , Meng Yao
Published: January 2024

For the current stellar spectral simulation can not realize the stellar color temperature information with large dynamic range simulation, this paper proposes a broad spectrum high-resolution subdivision and spatial beam zoning modulation combined with a large dynamic range of stellar radiation information simulation method, designed a kind of imaging and non-imaging stellar radiation information simulation optical system, using an optical system to achieve multi-color temperature spectrum and large dynamic range stellar simulation. The experimental results show that the designed system can simultaneously achieve the spectral simulation accuracy (single point evaluation) better than ± 7% in the range of spectral 450–1000 nm and color temperature 3000–11,000 K; on the premise of ensuring the spectral simulation accuracy, the magnitude simulation range reaches 0 to  + 12 Mv, and the magnitude simulation accuracy is better than ± 0.05 Mv; Accurate simulation of stellar spectral information and energy large dynamic range tuning is realized, and the system is extended. The system function has been extended to realize the switching of broadband and narrowband modes, The half-peak width of the narrowband output beam is better than 4.1 nm, which extends the application of the spectral simulation technology and provides the theoretical and technical basis for the ground calibration of the development of the high-precision stellar radiation information ground simulation system.
The process of social death in patients with hip fracture
Authors: Ghane Golnar , Zare Zahra , Shahsavari Hooman , Ahmadnia Shirin , Siavashi Babak
Published: January 2024

People with chronic disability and uncontrollable long-term complications following hip fracture have characterist.ics that may predispose them to social death. Continuous physical disability can have negative physical, psychological, and social consequences in these patients. To design care interventions for preventing and controlling social death, it is essential to identify the dimensions and characteristics of this process. Therefore, the present study aimed to explain the process of social death in hip fracture patients. In this study, which was conducted using a grounded theory approach, 20 patients were selected with maximum diversity and 9 professional and non-professional caregivers also through purposive sampling followed by theoretical sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews, field notes, and observations. Data were analyzed using the approach proposed by Corbin and Strauss in stages including data analysis for concepts and their dimensions and characteristics, the context, process extraction, and integration of the categories. One core category and 16 main categories, which consisted of 55 subcategories and 212 primary concepts, were extracted. The results showed that the core process of social death in hip fracture is an intentional self-destruction for getting liberated from the conditions of the illness and the disrupted social life after the fracture, which ultimately leads to outcomes such as isolation-seeking and death ideations in these patients. The core category of liberating self-destruction reflects the close relationship between the context, process, and outcomes of social death. The process of social death is social, multidimensional, and complex. So far, no explanatory theory has been presented for this group of patients. Therefore, the results of this study can play an important role in designing helpful interventions for preventing, modifying, and changing the phenomenon of social death.