bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of composite cylinders under external pressure load
Authors: Liu Xueshu , Xin Hanyang , Jiao Huifeng
Published: November 2024

Composites have been increasingly used when weight is an essential factor to be considered. Composite structures have been proposed in deep sea field as competitive replacement of traditional steel structures. So, it is very important to evaluate the mechanical performance of composite structures under high external pressure in order to avoid potential failure or over conservative designs. In this study, solution is proposed for multi-layered composite cylinder based on the classical laminated-plate theory and detailed stress-strain responses are investigated by using the proposed analytical method. It was found that the cylinder is more sensitive to external pressure than internal pressure and the difference between axial stresses is up to 8.2%. In addition, the stacking sequence has great influence on stress distribution through the thickness direction and the sequence of [45/0] may change the stress from tensile to compressive for two adjacent layers. Finally, the difference between hoop stresses at the internal and external surfaces is not affected by the ratio of radius to thickness.
Optimization of thermoplastic composites process parameters based on robotic fiber placement
Authors: Liu Mingyu , Fu Hongya , Zhao Zhiyuan , Jin Ziang , Han Zhenyu , Sun Shouzheng
Published: November 2024

In robot-driven composite manufacturing, managing the temperature field is crucial for determining the strength of the molding. This paper presents a process simulation analysis of the temperature field during the robot placement of thermoplastic composite materials on curved surfaces. The paper establishes an optimized temperature field model for the lay-up process on curved surfaces. Innovatively considering the influence of different plys on the heating temperature, this model can calculate the optimal heating temperature parameters for various ply layers. A two-dimensional heat transfer model is created using APDL command flow in ANSYS, and the mesh is partitioned. Transient thermal analysis is then conducted utilizing the “birth and death” element technique. Analyzing the effects of mold temperature, robot placement speed, and heating temperature on the temperature field of the first ply helps to understand their impact on multiple plys in the placement of curved surfaces. This analysis provides insights into how these factors influence the overall process.
Exploring the mechanisms of thermal insulation and heat conduction properties of composite materials based on simulation models
Authors: Cheng Chuanao , Dong Chengyuan , Lou Xu
Published: November 2024

The thermal conductivity of the composite material was simulated using DIGIMAT-FE software to predict the range of thermal conductivity values, which can reduce the amount of laboratory experimentation and help material developers accurately predict the thermal insulation properties of the material. Additionally, an insulating composite material was prepared by incorporating hollow glass microspheres (HGM) as a single thermal insulation filler into a silicone rubber matrix, and the thermal conductivity of this insulating composite was tested. The heat flux density and thermal conductivity of the composite material with the addition of HGM were described through computational simulation. The simulated thermal conductivity values were compared with laboratory test data to verify the agreement between the calculated and experimental values. Combining experiments with numerical simulations using DIGIMAT software, we conducted simulations of the thermal conductivity of composite materials to explore the mechanisms of thermal insulation. When heat transfers through composite insulation materials, the heat flux density in the thermal insulation phase is significantly lower than that in the matrix. The calculated and experimental values of HGM/LSR and HSM/LSR composites are in good agreement. The study on the impact of hollow glass microspheres (HGM) as a single thermal insulation phase on the performance of the silicone rubber matrix reveals that HGM microspheres can significantly reduce the thermal conductivity of the insulation material and enhance its thermal insulation performance.
Research on the infrared scattering characteristics of films doped with infrared lossless nanoparticles based on mie scattering
Authors: Zhou Tianze
Published: November 2024

Recently, infrared scattering has caught people’s interest because of its stealth capabilities, heat insulation properties, polarization control, and other factors. This study specifically explores Mie scattering in the infrared spectrum, which is a well-established theory describing how light is absorbed and scattered by particles. We will analyze the periodic structure of nanoparticles made from ZnS, calculating their reflectance, transmission, and far-field scattering characteristics. Lastly, we will present scattering effect of ZnS/SEBS coating sprayed onto metal, illustrating how multiple-particle Mie scattering can achieve stealth capabilities.
Design and implementation of a ground detection system for HERD-TRD front-end electronics
Authors: Su Yangzhou , Yang Haibo , Zhu Jieyu , Chen Ran , Liu Xiwen , Wang Hui , Zhou Zhiwen , Sun Xin , Quan Hao , Wang Longjie , Zhao Chengxin
Published: November 2024

The Transition Radiation Detector (TRD) is a critical component of the High Energy Cosmic Radiation Detection (HERD) experiment, calibrating the electromagnetic calorimeter at the TeV energy range and observing X-rays in the all-sky survey. To support HERD-TRD test, a comprehensive ground detection system featuring a data acquisition (DAQ) board and host computer software was designed and implemented. The DAQ system manages data from six front-end electronics (FEE), totaling 768 detector channels, using an LVDS interface for high-speed scientific data transfer and an RS422 interface for command and telemetry. Gigabit Ethernet and mini USB enable real-time communication with the host computer. Host computer software developed on the QT platform efficiently manages data acquisition, storage, and display. The DAQ board offers a compact circuit design and complete functionality, and the host software provides an intuitive user interface. The DAQ board and host computer software have been tested to meet the design requirements. Performance tests show that the system realizes a stable data transfer rate of 360 Mbps over Gigabit Ethernet and 55 Mbps from the FEE to the DAQ board. The system has minimal noise and runs continuously for a week without data loss. In addition, a joint test with TRD using the 55Fe radioactive source was performed, and the particle signal was correctly acquired.
Enhancing aerial mapping with gamma radiation detection: a study in UAE
Authors: Fawwaz O. , dos Santos J.M.F. , Arneodo F. , Ibrayev T.
Published: November 2024

This work presents a comprehensive study on the development of a sophisticated gamma
radiation detection system based on a drone-mounted gamma scintillation detector tailored for
aerial mapping and radiation surveillance, aimed at generating an environmental radioactivity map
within the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The project incorporates careful assembly and calibration
techniques that utilize four high-resolution crystals (two CeBr3 and two Lanthanum
Bromochloride crystals) to optimize detection sensitivity. Additionally, the study examines the
effectiveness of a VETO system in improving the signal-to-noise ratio and reducing background. The
detector system employs modern front-end and back-end electronics to digitize the signal at the
outset of signal processing. The detector will be installed on a drone to facilitate thorough and
effective surveys.
Optical gating characteristic time of measurement with 20 picoseconds resolution for an ultrafast image intensifier
Authors: Zhang Mei , Peng Bo-Dong , Guo Quan , Li Yang
Published: November 2024

In order to study the optical gating time characteristic of
an ultra-fast gated image intensifier, a precision measuring system
with 20 ps (picoseconds) trigger jitter is established. The
sequential gate images of the image intensifier with a time interval
of 20 ps are obtained at 0.125 ns ∼2 ns (nanoseconds) gating
electrical pulse modes. These images show that the intensifier has
the familiar normal “iris” turn-on and abnormal “iris” turn-off
behavior. The turn- on time is about 130 ps and the turn-off time
is about 170 ps. In 1 ns and 2 ns gating modes, the fully-on time
of optical gating almost is equal to the width of the electrical
gating pulse, In 0.5 ns, 0.25 ns and 0.125 ns modes, the fully-on
time is less than the width of the electrical gating pulse,
especially in the 0.125 ns gating mode, and the image in fully-on
phase is not observed. The width at 90% of the peak of the optical
gating time response curve may better characterize the fully-on time
of optical gating.
Development and commissioning of ion-optical elements for ion and antiproton beams with energies up to 5 keV
Authors: Klink C. , Schlaich M. , Fischer J. , Obertelli A. , Schmidt A. , Wienholtz F.
Published: November 2024

In nuclear and atomic physics experiments, charged ion beams
often need to be guided from the ion production to the experimental
site. In the PUMA experiment, an ion source beamline was developed,
which can be operated with up to 5 keV beam energy at a base
pressure of 10-9 mbar or better. In this technical report, a
low-energy pulsed drift tube for beam energy modification, a hybrid
einzel lens assembly for beam focusing and steering and an iris
shutter assembly for separating beamline sections with different
vacuum requirements are described with their design principles and
performances.
Bioinspired design and validation of a soft robotic end-effector with integrated shape memory alloy-driven suction capabilities
Authors: Zhou Weimian , Xu Chanchan , Chen Guisong , Wang Xiaojie
Published: November 2024

The exploration of adaptive robotic systems capable of performing complex tasks in unstructured environments, such as underwater salvage operations, presents a significant challenge. Traditional rigid grippers often struggle with adaptability, whereas bioinspired soft grippers offer enhanced flexibility and adaptability to varied object shapes. In this study, we present a novel bioinspired soft robotic gripper integrated with a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuated suction cup, inspired by the versatile grasping strategies of octopus arms and suckers. Our design leverages a tendon-driven composite arm, enabling precise bending and adaptive grasping, combined with SMA technology to create a compact, efficient suction mechanism. We develop comprehensive kinematic and static models to predict the interaction between arm bending deflection and suction force, thereby optimizing the gripper’s performance. Experimental validation demonstrates the efficacy of our integrated design, highlighting its potential for advanced manipulation tasks in challenging environments. This work provides a new perspective on the integration of bioinspired design principles with smart materials, paving the way for future innovations in adaptive robotic systems.
Effects of maximum thickness position on hydrodynamic performance for fish-like swimmers
Authors: Xiong Zhongying , Han Tao , Xia Huan
Published: November 2024

When designing the internals of robotic fish, variations in the internal arrangements of power and control systems cause differences in external morphological structures, particularly the positions of maximum thickness. These differences considerably affect swimming performance. This study examines the impact of the topological structure of self-propelled fish-like swimmers on hydrodynamic performance using fluid–structure interaction techniques. Fish-like swimmers with maximum thickness closest to the head exhibit optimal swimming performance, characterized by modest energy consumption for fast-response acceleration during the starting phase and higher swimming velocity for high-speed travel during steady swimming. As the maximum thickness moves toward the middle, acceleration performance significantly weakens and swimming speed decreases, although maximum energy consumption is relatively reduced. This study will provide a notable reference for the morphological design of underwater robotic fish.
Terrestrial moisture sources dominate summer precipitation fluctuations in Northwest China
Authors: Qian Peng , Zhu Bin , Zhu Tong , Fang Chenwei , Lu Chunsong , Chen Haishan , Liao Hong
Published: November 2024

Northwest China (NWC), is characterized by its arid and semi-arid environment, and exhibits high sensitivity to precipitation variations. Recent research indicates a wetting tendency over NWC, yet quantifying its moisture source remains challenging. Here, employing a 40 year simulation with Community Atmosphere Model version 5.1 (CAM5.1) coupled to an atmospheric water tracer algorithm, we ascertain that the dominant source of summer moisture over NWC are from terrestrial sources (82% of vapor and 77% of precipitation), i.e. from local evaporation, North Asia (NA), Europe (EUP), the southern Tibetan Plateau (STP), and southeastern China (SEC), rather than oceanic sources. Favorable synoptic patterns over NWC enhance the precipitation-conversion efficiency from the southeasterly airflow transport (STP and SEC) compared to northwesterly airflow (NA and EUP). We also find that the fluctuations in precipitation over NWC, manifesting as alternating dry and wet summers, are primarily driven by increased moisture contributions from direct inputs from NA and re-evaporation transport from STP. Our study indicates that moisture variability in inland is predominantly driven by nearby terrestrial sources and underscores the complex mechanisms of terrestrial moisture transport.
Eventually entanglement breaking divisible quantum dynamics
Authors: Szczygielski Krzysztof , Chruściński Dariusz
Published: November 2024

It is shown that a large class of quantum dynamical maps on complex matrix algebras governed by time-local Master Equations tend to become entanglement breaking in the course of time. Such situation seems to be generic for quantum evolution and in particular, completely positive dynamical semigroups with a unique faithful stationary state enjoy this property. Inspired by this observation, we propose a new concept of eventually entanglement breaking divisible (eEB-divisible) dynamics. A dynamical map is eEB-divisible if any propagator becomes entanglement breaking in finite time. It turns out that eEB-divisibility is quite general and holds for a large class of quantum evolutions.
Mapping class groups of exotic tori and actions by 𝑆𝐿_{𝑑}(𝐙)
Authors: Bustamante Mauricio , Krannich Manuel , Kupers Alexander , Tshishiku Bena
Published: November 2024

We determine for which exotic tori

T

\mathcal {T}

of dimension

d
≠
4

d\neq 4

the homomorphism from the group of isotopy classes of orientation-preserving diffeomorphisms of

T

\mathcal {T}

to

S
L

d

(

Z

)

\mathrm {SL}_d(\mathbf {Z})

given by the action on the first homology group is split surjective. As part of the proof we compute the mapping class group of all exotic tori

T

\mathcal {T}

that are obtained from the standard torus by a connected sum with an exotic sphere. Moreover, we show that any nontrivial

S
L

d

(

Z

)

\mathrm {SL}_d(\mathbf {Z})

-action on

T

\mathcal {T}

agrees on homology with the standard action, up to an automorphism of

S
L

d

(

Z

)

\mathrm {SL}_d(\mathbf {Z})

. When combined, these results in particular show that many exotic tori do not admit any nontrivial differentiable action by

S
L

d

(

Z

)

\mathrm {SL}_d(\mathbf {Z})

.
Secularism and Its Cross-Pressures
Authors: John Aruthuckal Varughese
Published: November 2024

Chapter 2 argues that the condition of secularity in India entails specific cross-pressures between the community and the individual that lead to a distinct form of disenchantment among India’s upper castes. For this group, the advent of secularism entails a loss of the sacred, which is manifested in the Indian Constitution’s effect on traditional purity laws. By upholding individual rights, the Constitution has dismantled the walls that separated social groups, meaning the pure can no longer remain pure. Secular doctrine, via the Constitution and its ‘alien’ assumptions, fundamentally disrupts this well-oiled machine that has worked for several millennia. This disenchantment is aggravated by the ‘metro-secularists’, who, like their Western counterparts, are characterized by a commitment to individual autonomy and what Taylor calls ‘the ethics of authenticity’, a social and moral vision that many Indians view as antagonistic to both community and religion. This condition of secularity and the disenchantment it has caused is manifested in fundamental disagreements about the meaning of religious freedom.
Subversive Adaptations of Religious Converts
Authors: John Aruthuckal Varughese
Published: November 2024

This chapter explores how converts to Christianity tend to navigate a complex social landscape by occupying hybridized sites seeking to remain Hindu while following Christ. This strategy is especially visible in the Krista Bhakta (Christ followers) movement, the upper-caste groups who see a cultural continuity with the Hindu traditions. Using ‘hybridity’, a concept that Homi Bhabha popularized to capture the mixing of Eastern and Western cultures in postcolonial literature, the chapter explores how it can be applied in the religious sphere that adopts this subversive tool within political and cultural spheres.
Evolutionary significance of fixed chromosomal variants in South American populations of the leopard beetle Calligrapha polyspila (Coleoptera: Chrysomelinae)
Authors: Sandruss Zulema Gabriela , Estévez Daniela Yael , Steinberg Eliana Ruth , Papeschi Alba Graciela , Mudry Marta Dolores , Bressa María José
Published: November 2024

Chrysomelinae species have a striking ecological specialization due to their trophic selection on plants usually belonging to the same botanical family. Calligrapha (Chevrolat) (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) is a diverse genus that comprises about 80 species distributed in most of the American continent. Cytogenetic studies of Calligrapha refer to 18 species with a modal diploid chromosome number 2n = 23 = 22 + XO (male) and a meioformula n = 11 + XO (male). A population of C. polyspila (Germar) from República Oriental del Uruguay shows 2n = 24 = 22 + Xyp (n = 12 = 11 + X/yp, male), which is coincident with the karyotype currently considered as the ancestral one. We performed for the first time a detailed karyotype analysis in specimens of C. polyspila from Argentinean natural populations. We described the male karyotype and analyzed the meiotic behavior and frequency and distribution of chiasmata. We also examined the chromatin organization and constitution by determining the amount, composition, and distribution of constitutive heterochromatin and the number and location of nucleolus organizer regions. The presence of a novel 2n in C. polyspila from República Argentina allows proposing different trends of karyotype differentiation that may have occurred in the Argentinean and Uruguayan allopatric populations. Our results provide more information on the karyology of Chrysomelinae and contribute to discussing the evolutionary significance of the different cytological features and the fixed chromosomal variants observed in these South American populations of C. polyspila.
Bodymind Pains and Metabolic Conditions
Authors: Constantinesco Thomas
Published: November 2024

This essay identifies recent trends in the field of health humanities and reflects on their relevance for the study of nineteenth-century US literature, as well as on the contribution of Americanist literary criticism to health humanities enquiries. It first shows how health humanities scholarship invites us to think about body and mind as inextricable. It then demonstrates how a nondualist focus on the bodymind helps articulate the complexities of the experience of pain. As a wide array of nineteenth-century literary texts attests, bodyminds in pain ask to be understood through interconnected scales ranging from the singular to the collective, from the intimate to the social, from the microbiotic to the biopolitical. The final section thus considers the bodymind as a liminal site where these scalar dynamics intersect, turning to the way metabolic processes mediate conditions of health and illness while serving as an analytic for investigating wider biopolitical anxieties. Through the example of Henry James’s ambiguous valuation of “munching” at the turn of the twentieth century, when conditions such as obesity and diabetes emerged as alleged diseases of modernity, the essay concludes by pondering the entanglements between literature, foodways, and health as a fruitful avenue for further enquiry.
Generating pregnant patient biological profiles by deconvoluting clinical records with electronic health record foundation models
Authors: Seong David , Mataraso Samson , Espinosa Camilo , Berson Eloise , Reincke S Momsen , Xue Lei , Kashiwagi Chloe , Kim Yeasul , Shu Chi-Hung , Chung Philip , Ghanem Marc , Xie Feng , Wong Ronald J , Angst Martin S , Gaudilliere Brice , Shaw Gary M , Stevenson David K , Aghaeepour Nima
Published: November 2024

Translational biology posits a strong bi-directional link between clinical phenotypes and a patient’s biological profile. By leveraging this bi-directional link, we can efficiently deconvolute pre-existing clinical information into biological profiles. However, traditional computational tools are limited in their ability to resolve this link because of the relatively small sizes of paired clinical–biological datasets for training and the high dimensionality/sparsity of tabular clinical data. Here, we use state-of-the-art foundation models (FMs) for electronic health record (EHR) data to generate proteomics profiles of pregnant patients, thereby deconvoluting pre-existing clinical information into biological profiles without the cost and effort of running large-scale traditional omics studies. We show that FM-derived representations of a patient’s EHR data coupled with a fully connected neural network prediction head can generate 206 blood protein expression levels. Interestingly, these proteins were enriched for developmental pathways, while proteins not able to be generated from EHR data were enriched for metabolic pathways. Finally, we show a proteomic signature of gestational diabetes that includes proteins with established and novel links to gestational diabetes. These results showcase the power of FM-derived EHR representations in efficiently generating biological states of pregnant patients. This capability can revolutionize disease understanding and therapeutic development, offering a cost-effective, time-efficient, and less invasive alternative to traditional methods of generating proteomics.
How can biodiversity strategy and action plans incorporate genetic diversity and align with global commitments?
Authors: Hoban Sean , Hvilsom Christina , Aissi Abdeldjalil , Aleixo Alexandre , Bélanger Julie , Biala Katarzyna , Ekblom Robert , Fedorca Ancuta , Funk W Chris , Goncalves Alejandra Lorena , Gonzalez Andrew , Heuertz Myriam , Hughes Alice , Ishihama Fumiko , Stroil Belma Kalamujic , Laikre Linda , McGowan Philip J K , Millette Katie L , O'Brien David , Paz-Vinas Ivan , Rincón-Parra Victor Julio , Robuchon Marine , Rodríguez Jon Paul , Rodríguez-Morales María Alejandra , Segelbacher Gernot , Straza Tiffany R A , Susanti Ruliyana , Tshidada Ntakadzeni , Vilaça Sibelle Torres , da Silva Jessica M
Published: November 2024

National, subnational, and supranational entities are creating biodiversity strategy and action plans (BSAPs) to develop concrete commitments and actions to curb biodiversity loss, meet international obligations, and achieve a society in harmony with nature. In light of policymakers’ increasing recognition of genetic diversity in species and ecosystem adaptation and resilience, this article provides an overview of how BSAPs can incorporate species’ genetic diversity. We focus on three areas: setting targets; committing to actions, policies, and programs; and monitoring and reporting. Drawing from 21 recent BSAPs, we provide examples of policies, knowledge, projects, capacity building, and more. We aim to enable and inspire specific and ambitious BSAPs and have put forward 10 key suggestions mapped to the policy cycle. Together, scientists and policymakers can translate high level commitments, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity’s Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, into concrete nationally relevant targets, actions and policies, and monitoring and reporting mechanisms.
Rehabilitation as Performance: Symbolizing Penal Welfare in Chinese Community Corrections
Authors: Jiang Jize , Chen Xuan
Published: November 2024

The recent establishment of Chinese community-based corrections (CCC) signals Chinese reformers’ ostensible embrace of the rehabilitation ideal and a looming lenient turn in Chinese criminal justice policy. While a growing literature has studied the operational effects, social functions and political significance of CCC, little attention has been paid to the performative aspect or symbolic significance of China’s efforts at offender rehabilitation through community correctional processes. Drawing on ethnographic research conducted in parole settings of two Chinese cities, we show how the CCC’s rehabilitative work practically operates as a form of performative governance, shedding light on the strategies and processes used by penal actors to achieve rehabilitative performance. In routine rehabilitative practices, justice officials typically collaborate with service professionals and/or parolees to forge a team performance—either by staging the fulfilment of indicators or by engaging in glorifying rituals. The study contends that when the implementation of rehabilitation is geared towards serving the interests of the state and is preoccupied with meeting bureaucratic ends, while ignoring the voices and precarious situations of offenders, the CCC enterprise of providing correctional services becomes a symbolic performance rather than a substantive accomplishment. The implications of the study for research and policy are discussed.
Morphological and molecular data demonstrate the existence of Betula fruticosa and B. middendorffii and the absence of B. ovalifolia in northeastern China
Authors: Dun Xingjian , Ding Junyi , Jadwiszczak Katarzyna A , Zhou Shaojie , Wang Qi , Nakamura Koh , Fan Yuyun , Nagamitsu Teruyoshi , Chen Dafeng , Wang Nian
Published: November 2024

Shrub birches are important components of massive wetlands in Northeast China, although much of these habitats have been lost over the past two decades. However, the taxonomy of shrub birches has been ambiguous owing to their morphological variation. In this study, we incorporated morphological and molecular data to address the taxonomic challenges associated with shrub birches. We characterized the morphological variation in the leaves, seeds, and bracts of 11 shrub birch populations in Northeast China and a population of Betula ovalifolia in northern Japan. We genotyped birch individuals from Northeast China at 15 microsatellite loci  as well as a subset of individuals, using restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RAD-seq). The populations in Northeast China consisted of B. fruticosa and B. middendorffii. These two species and B. ovalifolia differ in the width of their seed wings and the angle between the side lobes of their bracts, despite substantial intraspecific variation. Our genetic data revealed two distinct clusters, corresponding to B. fruticosa and B. middendorffii. Ploidy level assessment via RAD-seq revealed that B. fruticosa is diploid and B. middendorffii is tetraploid. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that B. fruticosa formed a sister clade to diploid B. humilis, and B. middendorffii formed a clade with diploid B. nana. Our results indicate the existence of B. fruticosa and B. middendorffii and the probable absence of B. ovalifolia in the northern Daxing’an Range, as all the tetraploid individuals sampled there represented B. middendorffii. In addition, our results suggest that B. humilis and B. nana may have served as diploid parents of the tetraploid species B. ovalifolia and B. middendorffii, respectively.
Nutritional outcomes between different techniques of intradialytic amino acid replacement: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Dumrongsukit Sophon , Tiranathanagul Khajohn , Asavapujanamanee Pagaporn , Metta Kamonchanok , Eiam-Ong Somchai , Kittiskulnam Piyawan
Published: November 2024

Background

Amino acid (AA) depletion during dialysis deteriorates the protein-energy status of haemodialysis (HD) patients. This study aimed to determine whether intradialytic amino acid (IDAA) replacement by continuous infusion versus acute load could provide better nutritional outcomes.

Methods

HD patients with mild protein-energy wasting, defined as a serum albumin level of 3.5–3.9 mg/dl despite 7-point subjective global assessment in category A or a malnutrition inflammation score ≤5, were randomly assigned to receive IDAA by continuous infusion or acute load for 3 months. In continuous infusion (n = 24), 50% glucose followed by 7.2% branched-chain enriched AA solution were instilled in the first 15 minutes after HD initiation with high-flux dialyser through the end of the session. Similar parenteral nutrition compositions containing the same total amount of glucose and AA were rapidly added into the venous drip chamber within the last hour of HD in the acute load group (n = 24). The primary outcome was the change in serum albumin level. Secondary outcomes were changes in muscle parameters and plasma as well as dialysate AA concentrations.

Results

The mean age of patients was 68.9 ± 12.7 years and the average body mass index was 22.8 ± 4.4 kg/m2 with 45.8% being men. After 3 months, serum albumin levels were significantly elevated in continuous infusion (P = .001) whereas it was unchanged in the acute load (P = .13). Despite comparable energy and protein intake, total body muscle mass was also increased in the continuous infusion group at 3 months (P = .03) compared with no significant change in the acute load group (P = .45). The amount of AA loss into the dialysate was similar between the two groups (P = .17). At post-dialysis, most plasma essential and non-essential AA levels were significantly lower in patients receiving continuous infusion than acute load, while branched-chain AA concentrations including leucine (P = .61) and valine (P = .09) were comparable between the two groups. Despite enhancing muscle mass in continuous infusion, handgrip strength and gait speed were unaltered in both techniques of IDAA replacement.

Conclusions

IDAA using continuous infusion appears to be superior to acute load in terms of serum albumin and muscle mass improvement. The impact of IDAA on hard clinical outcomes may require larger scale with a longer period of study (TCTR20230401003).
The Genomic SSR Millets Database (GSMDB): enhancing genetic resources for sustainable agriculture
Authors: Kumar Sonu , Singh Sangeeta , Kumar Rakesh , Gupta Dinesh
Published: November 2024

The global population surge demands increased food production and nutrient-rich options to combat rising food insecurity. Climate-resilient crops are vital, with millets emerging as superfoods due to nutritional richness and stress tolerance. Given limited genomic information, a comprehensive genetic resource is crucial to advance millet research. Whole-genome sequencing provides an unprecedented opportunity, and molecular genetic methodologies, particularly simple sequence repeats (SSRs), play a pivotal role in DNA fingerprinting, constructing linkage maps, and conducting population genetic studies. SSRs are composed of repetitive DNA sequences where one to six nucleotides are repeated in tandem and distributed throughout the genome. Different millet species exhibit genomic variations attributed to the presence of SSRs. While SSRs have been identified in a few millet species, the existing information only covers some of the sequenced genomes. Moreover, there is an absence of complete gene annotation and visualization features for SSRs. Addressing this disparity and leveraging the de-novo millet genome assembly available from the NCBI, we have developed the Genomic SSR Millets Database (GSMDB; https://bioinfo.icgeb.res.in/gsmdb/). This open-access repository provides a web-based tool offering search functionalities and comprehensive details on 6.747645 million SSRs mined from the genomic sequences of seven millet species. The database, featuring unrestricted public access and JBrowse visualization, is a pioneering resource for the research community dedicated to advancing millet cultivars and related species. GSMDB holds immense potential to support myriad studies, including genetic diversity assessments, genetic mapping, marker-assisted selection, and comparative population investigations aiming to facilitate the millet breeding programs geared toward ensuring global food security.

Database URL: https://bioinfo.icgeb.res.in/gsmdb/
Comprehensive treatment strategy in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus-related pulmonary artery hypertension: a case report
Authors: Yokoe Miku , Higuchi Satoshi , Shinke Toshiro
Published: November 2024

Background

Although the prognosis in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has dramatically improved, pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) is one of the life-threatening comorbidities associated with SLE. The management of the comorbidity is occasionally challenging due to the lack of consensus regarding treatment options including immunosuppressive agents, selective pulmonary vasodilators, and cardiac rehabilitation.

Case summary

A 28-year-old female who terminated prednisolone after remission of SLE by her own discretion 3 years ago developed dyspnoea on effort. Transthoracic echocardiography showed dilatation of the right atrium (RA) and ventricle (RV), as well as the RV dysfunction. The findings of right heart catheterization and pulmonary perfusion scintigraphy confirmed PAH associated with connective tissue disease. According to the SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) and the REVEAL Registry Risk Score, she was at high risk of PAH despite mild SLE activity. Upfront combination therapy including macitentan and tadalafil for PAH and steroid semi-pulse and cyclophosphamide pulse therapy for SLE alongside supervised cardiac rehabilitation were initiated simultaneously. The RA and RV sizes were normalized after the aforementioned therapy. The RV–pulmonary artery (PA) coupling improved from 0.15 to 0.77 mm/mmHg, and the mean PA pressure decreased from 55 to 29 mmHg.

Discussion

The case presentation highlighted the potential benefits of comprehensive treatment strategy including immunosuppressive treatment, upfront combination therapy, and supervised exercise training. Notably, the initiation of cardiac rehabilitation at the early phase did not exacerbate her condition and might have contributed to remission of symptoms and improvement in exercise tolerance. This multidisciplinary approach achieved long-term good quality of life.
Proof of concept for a superior therapeutic index of corticosterone compared with hydrocortisone in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Authors: Kyle Catriona J , Boyle Luke D , Nixon Mark , Homer Natalie Z M , Simpson Joanna P , Rutter Alison , Ramage Lynne E , Kelman Alexandra , Freel Ellen Marie , Andrew Ruth , Walker Brian R , Stimson Roland H
Published: November 2024

Objective

Outcomes are poor for patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), in part due to the supraphysiological glucocorticoid doses required to control adrenal androgen excess. Hydrocortisone (ie, cortisol) is the recommended glucocorticoid for treatment of CAH. However, the other endogenous glucocorticoid in humans, corticosterone, is actively transported out of metabolic tissues such as adipose tissue and muscle, so we hypothesized that corticosterone could control adrenal androgens while causing fewer metabolic adverse effects than hydrocortisone.

Methods

Thirteen patients (8 female, 5 male) with CAH due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency completed a randomized placebo-controlled crossover study comparing 5 h intravenous infusions of either hydrocortisone, corticosterone or placebo. 6-6[2H]2-glucose and 1,1,2,3,3-[2H]5-glycerol were infused to measure glucose and glycerol kinetics, and blood samples were collected throughout. Subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue biopsies were obtained at the end of each infusion.

Results

During the infusion, corticosterone and hydrocortisone similarly reduced ACTH, 17α-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, and testosterone (in females only) compared with placebo. Despite achieving circulating corticosterone concentrations ∼2.5-fold higher than hydrocortisone, by T + 300 min hydrocortisone but not corticosterone increased glucose and insulin concentrations and reduced 6-6-[2H]2-glucose clearance compared with placebo. Hydrocortisone increased mRNA levels of the glucocorticoid regulated transcript PER1 in adipose to a greater extent than corticosterone.

Conclusions

Corticosterone acutely controls biochemical markers of androgen excess similarly to hydrocortisone but without inducing markers of glucocorticoid “toxicity” in CAH. These data demonstrate proof of concept that corticosterone may be a safer glucocorticoid replacement than current medications, although further research is required to assess the longer-term effects of corticosterone replacement.
Association of unemployment and increased depressive symptoms with all-cause mortality: follow-up study of a cardiovascular prevention programme
Authors: Korhonen Päivi E , Kautiainen Hannu , Rantanen Ansa T
Published: November 2024

Unemployment has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all-cause mortality. However, factors behind this association remain unsettled. A primary care CVD prevention programme was conducted in two Finnish towns in 2005–07. Of the participants (n = 4450), a cohort of apparently healthy CVD risk subjects belonging to the labour force (n = 1487) was identified. Baseline depressive symptoms were assessed by Beck’s Depression Inventory. Data on employment status and mortality were obtained from official statistics. The effect of employment status and depressive symptoms on all-cause mortality after a median follow-up of 15 years was estimated in models adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, physical activity, alcohol use, current smoking, glucose metabolism, and hypertension. In comparison to employed non-depressive subjects, fully adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for all-cause mortality was 3.53 (1.90–6.57) in unemployed subjects with increased depressive symptoms, 1.26 (0.68–2.34) in unemployed non-depressive subjects, and 1.09 (0.63–1.90) in employed depressive subjects. Factors independently associated with mortality were unemployment with increased depressive symptoms [HR 3.56 (95% CI 1.92–6.61)], screen-detected diabetes [HR 2.71 (95% CI 1.59–4.63)], current smoking [HR 1.77 (95% CI 1.19–2.65)], and higher age [HR 1.10 (95% CI 1.05–1.15)]. Unemployment in itself was not associated with all-cause mortality. If unemployment was accompanied with increased depressive symptoms, risk of death was significantly elevated.
Nadja as Litterature and Loiterature
Authors: Fong Ian
Published: November 2024

Nadja (1928) is a novel written by André Breton (1896–1966). This article discusses how Nadja can be read as a form of ‘loiterature’ and ‘litterature’. The term ‘loiterature’ comes from Ross Chambers’s Loiterature; ‘litterature’ is borrowed from James Joyce and Jacques Lacan. The ‘litterary’ importance of litter is explored in Nadja through the narrator’s loitering in everyday Paris. To the narrator, Nadja’s ‘convulsive beauty’ embodies his own repression. When the repressed is considered as a residue of consciousness, its existence is akin to litter buried in a rubbish heap, like the residue of a city. The narrator says that each encounter with Nadja is fortuitous. Loitering in everyday Paris is the best means, if there is one, for the narrator to approach her; and the narration of Nadja can be read as ‘litterary loitering’ initiated by the unconscious.
AncestryPainter 2.0: Visualizing Ancestry Composition and Admixture History Graph
Authors: Chen Shuanghui , Lei Chang , Zhao Xiaohan , Pan Yuwen , Lu Dongsheng , Xu Shuhua
Published: November 2024

The earlier version of AncestryPainter is a Perl program that displays the ancestry composition of numerous individuals using a rounded graph. Motivated by the requests of users in practical applications, we updated AncestryPainter to version 2.0 by coding in an R package and improving the layout, providing more options and compatible statistical functions for graphing. Apart from improving visualization functions per se in this update, we added an extra graphing module to visualize genetic distance through radial bars of varying lengths surrounding a core. Notably, AncestryPainter 2.0 allows for multiple pie charts at the center of the graph to display the ancestry composition of more than one target population and implements a method admixture history graph to infer the admixture sequence of multiple ancestry populations. We validated the six admixture history graph metrics using both simulated and real data and implemented a Pearson coefficient-based metric with the best performance in AncestryPainter 2.0. Furthermore, a statistical module was implemented to merge ancestry proportion matrices. AncestryPainter 2.0 is freely available at https://github.com/Shuhua-Group/AncestryPainterV2 and https://pog.fudan.edu.cn/#/Software.
A case of penicillin-resistant group B Streptococcus isolated from a patient in the UK
Authors: McGuire E , Ready D , Ellaby N , Potterill I , Pike R , Hopkins K L , Guy R L , Lamagni T , Mack D , Scobie A , Warren S , Brown C S , Coelho J
Published: November 2024

Objectives

In England, group B streptococci (GBS; Streptococcus agalactiae) are considered universally susceptible to penicillin. Reports from Africa, Asia, North America and a few European countries have described GBS isolates with penicillin MICs above the epidemiological cut-off (0.125 mg/L). Our aim was to characterize a penicillin-resistant GBS (PRGBS) isolate recovered in 2016 from a patient treated with long-term antimicrobials in the UK.

Methods

Antibiotic susceptibility of a referred isolate from a discharging sinus overlying a chronic prosthetic joint infection was determined using gradient strip testing for seven antibiotics. Illumina short read sequencing was carried out using a HiSeq 2500 platform to determine MLST, capsular type, to detect mutations in the pbp genes, and to compare the isolate with contemporaneous GBS isolates circulating in the UK.

Results

The GBS isolate belonged to capsular type Ia and MLST 144. We observed resistance to penicillin (MIC = 1 mg/L) and tetracycline (32 mg/L) with susceptibility to linezolid (1 mg/L), erythromycin (0.064 mg/L), clindamycin (0.064 mg/L), teicoplanin (0.064 mg/L) and vancomycin (0.25 mg/L). Deduced amino acid sequences revealed substitutions and non-synonymous changes in PBP2x and PBP2b. Genomic analysis of contemporaneous cases (n = 34) from across the UK identified single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variation ranged from 153–6596 SNPs.

Conclusions

We confirm the first identification of a PRGBS isolate amongst referrals to the UK’s national reference laboratory. Substitutions in pbp1a, pbp2a, pbp2x and pbp2b were identified that likely developed in the face of long-term beta-lactam antibiotic use.
Quantum modal logic
Authors: Tokuo Kenji
Published: November 2024

A modal logic based on quantum logic is formalized in its simplest possible form. Specifically, a relational semantics and a sequent calculus are provided, and the soundness and the completeness theorems connecting both notions are demonstrated. This framework is intended to serve as a basis for formalizing various modal logics over quantum logic, such as quantum alethic logic, quantum temporal logic, quantum epistemic logic, and quantum dynamic logic.
Intellectual property rights as a tool for bridging gender gap: approaches and prospects under the African Union
Authors: Mwakaje Saudin J
Published: November 2024

This article investigates the extent to which the current African Union’s initiatives towards women’s empowerment integrate intellectual property rights (IPRs) as a driver for bridging the gender gap. It is premised on the argument that the multiplier effect of IPRs manifests in a variety of achievable societal development objectives, including bridging the gender gap. Noticeably, the African Union (AU) seeks, among others, to facilitate women’s socio-economic development through their involvement in the technological space and gender-enabling e-solutions. Intellectual property (IP) is one of the crucial drivers in socio-economic and technological development by granting exclusive rights to control various forms of its usage. Yet, IP is not immune from gender-based mischiefs, and hence its interdisciplinary functions are increasingly questioned and laid bare, necessitating rethought and repackaging. The chosen analytical orientation is a feminist one guided by the critical race IP theoretical construct. It is contended that the current AU interventions pertaining to women’s empowerment are devoid of proper recognition and placement of IP, hence limiting its effectiveness in encouraging the participation and recognition of women in their creative endeavours. To address this shortcoming, a call is made for a review of all AU’s legal instruments and programmes for women’s empowerment to integrate IPR precepts, setting up IP support structures for women, and adopting a gender-conscious continental IPR agenda under the Agreement on African Continental Free Trade Area IPR Protocol and ongoing World Intellectual Property Organization initiatives by specifically integrating IPR principles in the ongoing plans for closing the gender gap.