bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Raman hyperspectral imaging detects novel and combinations of crystals in synovial fluids of patients with a swollen joint
Authors: Niessink Tom , Kuipers Charline , de Jong Brighton Z. , Lenferink Aufried T. M. , Janssen Matthijs , Jansen Tim L. , Otto Cees
Published: September 2022

The identification of synovial crystals is important for diagnosing rheumatic diseases. Currently, rheumatologists worldwide use compensated polarized light microscopy (CPLM) for crystal identification, but this technique is flawed. Raman spectroscopy might offer an objective, accurate alternative. We have tested Raman hyperspectral imaging on synovial fluid samples of 28 patients with swollen joints, measuring 5–10 crystals in each of these. Reference spectra for identification were measured using patient material, synthetic compounds, and oxalate kidney stones. Additionally, RRUFF and PANGAEA Raman databases were used to identify spectra. We identified the classical pathological crystals monosodium urate for gout and calcium pyrophosphate for calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease (CPPD). Hydroxyapatite, lipid spherules, and calcium oxalate monohydrate have also been observed and had been previously identified in synovial fluids. Other crystals, which were not previously observed in synovial fluid using CPLM, have been identified as well: calcite, aragonite, anatase, rutile, thenardite, dolomite, and a carotenoid. In addition, we found combinations of crystals in 13 out of 28 patients. We propose that the observed large variation of detectable crystals from a small population of patients and a small number of crystals per patient has significant ramifications for the use of compensated polarized light microscopy for the diagnosis of gout and CPPD. Further studies are required to learn the clinical significance of these crystals in human arthritis.
Regularity theory for fractional reaction–subdiffusion equation and application to inverse problem
Authors: Van Bang Tran , Van Tuan Tran
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we analyze the regularity in time of solutions for nonlinear fractional reaction–subdiffusion equations (FrRSEs). By constituting regularity estimates of resolvent operator and employing fixed point theorems, we establish some results on the global existence and regularity in time of solutions to FrRSE in two different cases of nonlinear perturbations, namely, sublinear and superlinear cases. As an application of these results, several results on the existence and regularity of solutions in an inverse source problem governed by FrRSE with the additional measurements given at terminal time will be shown.
Moral decision‐making in pettism: The influence of animal type, pet ownership status, and social distance
Authors: Xu Kepeng , Ou Qianqian , Luo Dongli , Shi Xiaoting , Li Kang , Xue Hong , Huang Yinghua , Turel Ofir , Zhang Shuyue , He Qinghua
Published: September 2022

Speciesism prioritizes humans over animals and pets. Nevertheless, pet owners have a strong attachment bond with their pets, which makes their hierarchical view of pets less clear. Aiming to examine this issue, we present a dilemma involving animals and humans that allowed us to investigate whether animal type, social distance, and pet ownership status can affect moral decision‐making related to pets. Save‐willingness results showed that in the moral dilemmas of pets versus livestock versus wild animals (Studies 1a and 2a) and their own pets versus strangers (Studies 1b and 2b), pet owners prioritize pets whereas non‐owners prioritize pets (Studies 1a and 2a) and strangers (Studies 1b and 2b). Pet owners prefer to save pets more than do non‐owners (Study 1a), and this effect was only observed in females (Study 2a). Save‐decision results showed that in the moral dilemmas of pets versus livestock versus wild animals (Study 2a), pet owners prioritize pets whereas in the dilemmas of pets versus strangers (Study 2b), pet owners prioritize strangers. The same result was found in non‐owners. Pet owners prefer more than do non‐owners to save pets (Study 2). Overall, the separation of save‐willingness and save‐decision results revealed that pet owners show special speciesism (i.e., pettism).
Characteristics of emotional disturbance of female and male students in elementary, middle, and high school
Authors: Cullinan Douglas , Lambert Matthew C. , Epstein Michael H.
Published: September 2022

Provide data on the five characteristics of emotional disturbance (ED). For 503 students with ED and 2016 without disabilities, teachers rated the characteristics (Inability to Learn;Relationship Problems;Inappropriate Behavior;Unhappiness or Depression;Physical Symptoms or Fears), plusSocially Maladjusted. We applied a 2 (ED, without disabilities) × 2 (female, male) × 3 (elementary, middle, high school) covariance analysis, with follow‐up comparisons. Students with ED showed greater problems than students without disabilities on all five characteristics, andSocially Maladjusted. OnInability to Learn, among students with ED genders did not differ at elementary but males had greater problems at middle school. OnInappropriate BehaviorandPhysical Symptoms or Fears, students with ED varied across school levels but students without disabilities did not. All five characteristics discriminated students with ED from those without disabilities. Differences between genders and school levels varied across characteristics.
Real‐world feasibility of short‐term, unsupervised home spirometry in CF
Authors: Davis Jaclyn , Ryan Morgan , Marchetti Peter , Dahlberg Suzanne E. , Greenberg Jonathan , Bacon Callie , Kaur Ravneet , Scalia Sarah , Sawicki Gregory S.
Published: September 2022

Objectives

The objective of this study was to study the performance of two available home spirometers used by people with Cystic Fibrosis (PwCF) over a short‐term period and to assess user experience.

Study design

This was a prospective observational study. Participants age 6 years and older were recruited to participate if they could complete acceptable spirometry in the clinic setting.

Methods

Participants used either the NuvoAir Air Next or the ZEPHYRx MIR Spirobank Smart spirometer. They underwent a one‐time virtual training session, then completed 2 weeks of daily spirometry followed by 2 months of weekly spirometry. Participants responded to surveys and completed a debrief interview to understand user experience. Statistical analyses examined feasibility, reliability, and accuracy of each spirometer in an unsupervised, real‐world setting.

Results

We report high adherence (80% [95% CI 61%–92%]) to our study protocol in all session attempts, but lower rates of adherence after discarding sessions performed with inadequate technique (47% [95% CI 28%–66%] to 63% [95% CI 44%–80%]). We found high reliability of each device by analyzing day‐to‐day variability and good concordance to recent in‐clinic testing (NuvoAir r = 0.91 [0.82–0.93]; ZEPHYRx r = 0.70 [0.45–0.84]). Patient experience in this cohort was favorable with most reporting ease of use and reassurance knowing lung function was being tracked over time.

Conclusions

This real‐world study showed good performance of two different available home spirometers used by children and adults with CF. While overall adherence was high, suboptimal technique reduced the total interpretable data, possibly limiting feasibility. Future work should focus on developing sustainable training and coaching programs to support the success of home spirometry in a CF chronic care model.
Prescribing cascades in community‐dwelling adults: A systematic review
Authors: Doherty Ann S. , Shahid Faiza , Moriarty Frank , Boland Fiona , Clyne Barbara , Dreischulte Tobias , Fahey Tom , Kennelly Seán P. , Wallace Emma
Published: September 2022

The misattribution of an adverse drug reaction (ADR) as a symptom or illness can lead to the prescribing of additional medication, referred to as a prescribing cascade. The aim of this systematic review is to identify published prescribing cascades in community‐dwelling adults. A systematic review was reported in line with the PRISMA guidelines and pre‐registered with PROSPERO. Electronic databases (Medline [Ovid], EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane Library) and grey literature sources were searched. Inclusion criteria: community‐dwelling adults; risk‐prescription medication; outcomes‐initiation of new medicine to “treat” or reduce ADR risk; study type‐cohort, cross‐sectional, case‐control, and case‐series studies. Title/abstract screening, full‐text screening, data extraction, and methodological quality assessment were conducted independently in duplicate. A narrative synthesis was conducted. A total of 101 studies (reported in 103 publications) were included. Study sample sizes ranged from 126 to 11 593 989 participants and 15 studies examined older adults specifically (≥60 years). Seventy‐eight of 101 studies reported a potential prescribing cascade including calcium channel blockers to loop diuretic (n = 5), amiodarone to levothyroxine (n = 5), inhaled corticosteroid to topical antifungal (n = 4), antipsychotic to anti‐Parkinson drug (n = 4), and acetylcholinesterase inhibitor to urinary incontinence drugs (n = 4). Identified prescribing cascades occurred within three months to one year following initial medication. Methodological quality varied across included studies. Prescribing cascades occur for a broad range of medications. ADRs should be included in the differential diagnosis for patients presenting with new symptoms, particularly older adults and those who started a new medication in the preceding 12 months.
Dose/exposure–response modeling in dose titration trials: Overcoming the titration paradox
Authors: Kristensen Niels Rode , Agersø Henrik
Published: September 2022

Response‐based dose individualization or dose titration is a powerful approach to achieve precision dosing. Yet, titration as an individualization strategy is underused in drug development and therefore not reflected in labeling, possibly partly because of the data analysis challenges associated with assessing dose/exposure–response under dose titration, where there is an inherent risk of selection bias because poor responders would get high doses, whereas good responders would get low doses. In a recent article, this issue of selection bias was termed the “titration paradox.” In this study, we demonstrate by means of simulation that the titration paradox may be overcome if longitudinal data from dose titration trials is analyzed using a population approach that accounts for the fact that dose/exposure–response relationships differ between individuals. We show that with an appropriate sample size and missing data missing at random, stepwise dose/exposure–response modeling based on data obtained under dose titration is not by definition subject to model selection bias or bias in parameter estimates. We also illustrate the challenges of graphical exploration of data obtained under dose titration and discuss the use of model diagnostic tools with such data. Our study shows that if, at every timepoint in the course of a trial, there is a clear causal relationship between the response and the dose/exposure level, and a population approach is used, it will in many cases be possible to develop, estimate, and appropriately qualify a dose/exposure–response model also for data obtained under dose titration, thus overcoming the titration paradox.
Boosting Electrocatalytic Reduction of CO2 to HCOOH on Ni Single Atom Anchored WTe2 Monolayer
Authors: Zhang Yuefeng , Yang Ruijie , Li Hao , Zeng Zhiyuan
Published: September 2022

Achieving efficient conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) to formic acid (HCOOH) at mild conditions is a promising means to reduce greenhouse gas emission and mitigate the energy crisis. Herein, spin‐polarized density functional theory calculations with van der Waals corrections (DFT+D3) are performed to analyze the catalytic activity of seven metals (Ti, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, In, and Sn) anchored on a tungsten ditelluride monolayer (M@WTe2) and screen favorable CO2 reduction pathways. These results demonstrate that Ni single atoms strongly bind to the WTe2 monolayer and exist in isolated form due to the high diffusion barriers. Also, Ni‐anchored WTe2 monolayer (Ni@WTe2) possesses a considerably low limiting‐potential (−0.11 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode) to convert CO2 to HCOOH due to moderate OCHO adsorption energy and a suppressed competing hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Therefore, Ni@WTe2 monolayer is a promising electrocatalytic material for the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). This study sheds light on strategies of designing single metal atom anchored WTe2 catalysts for improved CO2RR performances.
Inverter Based Ultra‐Low Power Demodulation Circuit for AM Receivers
Authors: Masui Yoshihiro
Published: September 2022

Wireless communication with AM (Amplitude Modulation) is widely used. If the power consumption of the AM receiver is reduced to the utmost limit, the power source can be replaced with an energy harvest, which is very convenient. Power lines will not be needed and batteries will no longer need to be replaced or recharged. Therefore, we propose an ultra‐low power demodulation circuit for AM receivers. The proposed demodulator achieved a peak SNDR of 47.8 dB and a power consumption of 3.36 μW at a carrier frequency of 1 MHz. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Abnormal cerebrospinal fluid levels of amyloid and tau are associated with cognitive decline over time in cognitively normal older adults: A monozygotic twin study
Authors: Tomassen Jori , den Braber Anouk , van der Landen Sophie M. , Konijnenberg Elles , Teunissen Charlotte E. , Vermunt Lisa , de Geus Eco J. C. , Boomsma Dorret I. , Scheltens Philip , Tijms Betty M. , Visser Pieter Jelle
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The contribution of genetic and environmental factors to the relation between cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers and cognitive decline in preclinical Alzheimer's disease remains unclear. We studied this in initially cognitively normal monozygotic twins.

Methods

We included 122 cognitively normal monozygotic twins (51 pairs) with a follow‐up of 4.3 ± 0.4 years. We first tested associations of baseline CSF Aβ1‐42/1‐40 ratio, total tau (t‐tau), and 181‐phosphorylated‐tau (p‐tau) status with subsequent cognitive decline using linear mixed models, and then performed twin specific analyses.

Results

Baseline abnormal amyloid‐β and tau CSF markers predicted steeper decline on memory (p ≤ .003) and language (p ≤ 0.04). Amyloid‐β and p‐tau markers in one twin predicted decline in memory in the co‐twin and tau markers in one twin predicted decline in language in the co‐twin (r range ‐0.26,0.39; p’s ≤ .02).

Discussion

These results suggest that memory and language decline are early features of AD that are in part determined by the same genetic factors that influence amyloid‐β and tau regulation.
Rapid autologous point‐of‐care transplantation of the adipose‐derived stromal vascular fraction in a dog with cubarthrosis
Authors: Schroers Maike , Schermuck Yyonne , Steigmeier‐Raith Stephanie , Waselau Anja‐Christina , Meyer‐Lindenberg Andrea
Published: September 2022

A 1‐year‐old shepherd dog was presented in the veterinary hospital due to left‐sided cubarthrosis and persisting weight‐bearing lameness of the left forelimb after a fragmented coronoid process in the left elbow joint had been removed at the age of 6 months. An autologous point‐of‐care transplantation of adipose tissue‐derived regenerative cells was performed using ARC System (InGeneron, Houston, TX, USA). Pre‐ and postoperative investigations included orthopaedic and radiographic examinations, gait analyses as well as two owner questionnaires, Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs and Canine Brief Pain Inventory. After 1, 2, 3, 6 and 12 months of treatment, the dog showed an improvement of peak vertical force and vertical impulse in the gait analyses as well as. The Canine Brief Pain Inventory and the Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs revealed an improvement of the quality of life within all further control visits up to 12 months after the therapy.
Die α-Mannosidose: eine seltene, aber unterdiagnostizierte Erkrankung?
Authors: Hennermann Julia B.
Published: September 2022

Bei der α‑Mannosidose handelt es sich um eine seltene lysosomale Speichererkrankung, bedingt durch eine autosomal-rezessiv vererbte Defizienz der α‑Mannosidase. Die Erkrankung weist ein breites klinisches Spektrum mit chronisch progredientem Verlauf auf. Charakteristische klinische Zeichen in den ersten Lebensjahren sind Hörminderung, Entwicklungsverzögerung, rezidivierende Infekte und/oder faziale Dysmorphie. Im weiteren Verlauf der Erkrankung manifestieren sich zunehmende skeletale Probleme und eine Ataxie, beide zu Immobilität führend. Im Gegensatz zu anderen lysosomalen Speichererkrankungen zeigt sich nach dem 20. Lebensjahr meist kein weiterer Verlust kognitiver Fähigkeiten. Ab dem Alter von 15 Jahren entwickeln ca. 25 % der Patienten psychiatrische Symptome. Aufgrund der Seltenheit der Erkrankung werden viele Patienten verspätet, z. T. erst im Erwachsenenalter, diagnostiziert.

Mittlerweile stehen 2 Therapieoptionen zur Behandlung der α‑Mannosidose zur Verfügung. Bei frühzeitiger Diagnosestellung ist die hämatopoetische Stammzelltransplantation eine wichtige therapeutische Option mit potenziell positivem Effekt auf die neurokognitive Entwicklung. Die Enzymersatztherapie mit Velmanase alfa ist seit 2018 in Europa zugelassen und eine therapeutische Option zur Behandlung der nichtneurologischen Manifestationen bei α‑Mannosidose. Sie hat jedoch keinen Einfluss auf neurologische Manifestationen der Erkrankung.

Zur Verbesserung der Diagnostik von Kindern und Jugendlichen mit der seltenen Erkrankung α‑Mannosidose möchte dieser Beitrag das Wissen um und das Bewusstsein für diese Erkrankung schärfen. Die frühe Diagnose einer α‑Mannosidose erspart nicht nur den Familien einen jahrelangen diagnostischen Leidensweg, sondern ermöglicht auch den betroffenen Patienten ein verbessertes Auskommen durch einen frühen Therapiestart.
A population pharmacokinetic model of remdesivir and its major metabolites based on published mean values from healthy subjects
Authors: Abouellil Ahmed , Bilal Muhammad , Taubert Max , Fuhr Uwe
Published: September 2022

Remdesivir is a direct-acting anti-viral agent. It was originally evaluated against filoviruses. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, it was investigated due to its anti-viral activities against (SARS-CoV-2) virus. Therefore remdesivir received conditional approval for treatment of patients with severe coronavirus disease. Yet, its pharmacokinetic properties are inadequately understood. This report describes the population pharmacokinetics of remdesivir and its two plasma-detectable metabolites (GS-704277 and GS-441524) in healthy volunteers. The data was extracted from published phase I single escalating and multiple i.v remdesivir dose studies conducted by the manufacturer. The model was developed by standard methods using non-linear mixed effect modeling. Also, a series of simulations were carried out to test suggested clinical doses. The model describes the distribution of remdesivir and each of its metabolites by respective two compartments with sequential metabolism between moieties, and elimination from central compartments. As individual data were not available, only inter-cohort variability could be assessed. The estimated point estimates for central (and peripheral) volumes of distribution for remdesivir, GS-704277, and GS-441524 were 4.89 L (46.5 L), 96.4 L (8.64 L), and 26.2 L (66.2 L), respectively. The estimated elimination clearances of remdesivir, GS704277, and GS-441524 reached 18.1 L/h, 36.9 L/h, and 4.74 L/h, respectively. The developed model described the data well. Simulations of clinically approved doses showed that GS-441524 concentrations in plasma exceeded the reported EC50 values during the complete duration of treatment. Nonetheless, further studies are needed to explore the pharmacokinetics of remdesivir and its relationship to clinical efficacy, and the present model may serve as a useful starting point for additional evaluations.
Emotion recognition profiles in clusters of youth based on levels of callous-unemotional traits and reactive and proactive aggression
Authors: Kleine Deters Renee , Naaijen Jilly , Holz Nathalie E. , Banaschewski Tobias , Schulze Ulrike M. E. , Sethi Arjun , Craig Michael C. , Sagar-Ouriaghli Ilyas , Santosh Paramala , Rosa Mireia , Castro-Fornieles Josefina , Penzol María José , Arango Celso , Brandeis Daniel , Franke Barbara , Glennon Jeffrey C. , Buitelaar Jan K. , Hoekstra Pieter J. , Dietrich Andrea
Published: September 2022

Youth with disruptive behavior showing high callous-unemotional (CU) traits and proactive aggression are often assumed to exhibit distinct impairments in emotion recognition from those showing mainly reactive aggression. Yet, reactive and proactive aggression and CU traits may co-occur to varying degrees across individuals. We aimed to investigate emotion recognition in more homogeneous clusters based on these three dimensions. In a sample of 243 youth (149 with disruptive behavior problems and 94 controls) aged 8–18 years, we used model-based clustering on self-report measures of CU traits and reactive and proactive aggression and compared the resulting clusters on emotion recognition (accuracy and response bias) and working memory. In addition to a Low and Low-Moderate symptom cluster, we identified two high CU clusters. The CU-Reactive cluster showed high reactive and low-to-medium proactive aggression; the CU-Mixed cluster showed high reactive and proactive aggression. Both CU clusters showed impaired fear recognition and working memory, whereas the CU-Reactive cluster also showed impaired recognition of disgust and sadness, partly explained by poor working memory, as well as a response bias for anger and happiness. Our results confirm the importance of CU traits as a core dimension along which youth with disruptive behavior may be characterized, yet challenge the view that high CU traits are closely linked to high proactive aggression per se. Notably, distinct neurocognitive processes may play a role in youth with high CU traits and reactive aggression with lower versus higher proactive aggression.
IL-17A promotes Helicobacter pylori-induced gastric carcinogenesis via interactions with IL-17RC
Authors: Kang Jee Hyun , Park Suyoung , Rho Jinhyung , Hong Eun-Ju , Cho Young-Eun , Won Young-Suk , Kwon Hyo-Jung
Published: September 2022

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) is a common malignancy worldwide, with a major attribution to Helicobacter pylori. Interleukin (IL)-17A has been reported to be up-regulated in serum and tumor of GC patients, but the precise mechanisms underlying its involvement in gastric tumorigenesis are yet to be established. Here, we investigated the roles of IL-17A in the pathogenesis of H. pylori-induced GC.

Methods

GC was induced in IL-17A knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice via N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) treatment and H. pylori infection. At 50 weeks after treatment, gastric tissues were examined by histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and immunoblot analyses. In vitro experiments on the human GC cell lines were additionally performed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Results

Deletion of IL-17A suppressed MNU and H. pylori-induced gastric tumor development accompanied by a decrease in gastric epithelial cell growth, oxidative stress, and expression of gastric epithelial stem cells markers. In AGS cells, recombinant human IL-17A (rhIL-17A) inhibited apoptosis and G1/S phase transition arrest while promoting reactive oxygen species production, sphere formation ability of cancer stem cells (CSC), and expression of stemness-related genes. In addition, rhIL-17A induced expression of IL-17RC, leading to NF-κB activation and increased NADPH oxidase 1 (NOX1) levels. Inhibition of NOX1 with GKT136901 attenuated rhIL-17A-mediated elevation of GC cell growth, ROS generation, and CSC stemness. Clinically, IL-17RC expressions were significantly upregulated in human GC compared with normal gastric tissues.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that IL-17A promotes gastric carcinogenesis, in part, by regulating IL-17RC/NF-κB/NOX1 pathway, supporting its potential as a target in human GC therapy.
A view of computational models for image segmentation
Authors: Antonelli Laura , De Simone Valentina , di Serafino Daniela
Published: September 2022

Image segmentation is a central topic in image processing and computer vision and a key issue in many applications, e.g., in medical imaging, microscopy, document analysis and remote sensing. According to the human perception, image segmentation is the process of dividing an image into non-overlapping regions. These regions, which may correspond, e.g., to different objects, are fundamental for the correct interpretation and classification of the scene represented by the image. The division into regions is not unique, but it depends on the application, i.e., it must be driven by the final goal of the segmentation and hence by the most significant features with respect to that goal. Thus, image segmentation can be regarded as a strongly ill-posed problem. A classical approach to deal with ill posedness consists in incorporating in the model a-priori information about the solution, e.g., in the form of penalty terms. In this work we provide a brief overview of basic computational models for image segmentation, focusing on edge-based and region-based variational models, as well as on statistical and machine-learning approaches. We also sketch numerical methods that are applied in computing solutions to these models. In our opinion, our view can help the readers identify suitable classes of methods for solving their specific problems.
Experimental study on the evaluation of surfactant/polymer flooding for enhancing oil recovery in Kumkol Oil Field
Authors: Zhao Lun , Wang Jincai , Zhang Xiangzhong , Guo Xuejing , Chen Li , Zhang Angang , Cao Kechuan , Li Junjian
Published: September 2022

Chemical enhanced oil recovery (EOR) methods are shown to sweep the residual oil by altering physical properties of fluids after waterflooding to improve oil recovery. This work presents an experimental study on the surfactant/polymer injection for EOR in sandstone reservoirs. Interfacial tension measurements, emulsification and rheology tests are performed to select the best candidates from thirteen commercial surfactants and five commercial polymers. The performance of the preferred surfactant and polymer candidates in EOR is evaluated through a series of core flooding experiments on both homogeneous and heterogenous sand packs. Different injection schemes are investigated. The results show that the polymer injection and polymer-surfactant-mixture slug can effectively displace the residual oil as the polymer injection improves efficiency of the sweeping front. Core flooding experiments on the heterogenous sand pack show that injecting polymer in the first, followed by surfactant slug yields the better performance compared with combined polymer-surfactant-mixture injection as the polymer pre-flush improves the vertical conformance of the surfactant solution and the final recovery.
Our Current Understanding of Chagas Disease and Trypanosoma cruzi Infection in the State of Florida — an Update on Research in this Region of the USA
Authors: Beatty Norman L. , Forsyth Colin J. , Burkett-Cadena Nathan , Wisely Samantha M.
Published: September 2022

Purpose of Review

Chagas disease (CD) is a neglected tropical disease caused by the protozoan parasite, Trypanosoma cruzi. Parasite transmission primarily occurs through direct interaction with an infected triatomine insect vector (kissing bug), but other routes are known. We aim to review the literature and discuss the unique circumstances of CD in the US state of Florida.

Recent Findings

Florida is home to naturally occurring kissing bugs that are invading homes and harbor T. cruzi. The state is also home to a diverse population of immigrants from Chagas-endemic regions in Latin America. In the USA, Florida is the state with the third highest estimated burden of CD, although the true prevalence is unknown.

Chagas disease is a chronic infection that often remains silent for decades. Those who manifest chronic disease may eventually die from debilitating cardiac and/or gastrointestinal manifestations. Florida is an opportune region of the USA for the study of CD, due to the existence of endemic transmission cycles in addition to the burden among people born in Chagas-endemic regions.
Primary node election based on probabilistic linguistic term set with confidence interval in the PBFT consensus mechanism for blockchain
Authors: Xie Mingyue , Liu Jun , Chen Shuyu , Xu Guangxia , Lin Mingwei
Published: September 2022

This study proposes a primary node election method based on probabilistic linguistic term set (PLTS) for the practical Byzantine fault tolerance (PBFT) consensus mechanism to effectively enhance the efficiency of reaching consensus. Specifically, a novel concept of the probabilistic linguistic term set with a confidence interval (PLTS-CI) is presented to express the uncertain complex voting information of nodes during primary node election. Then, a novel score function based on the exponential semantic value and confidence approximation value for the PLTS-CI, called Score-ESCA, is used to solve the problems of comparing different nodes with various voting attitudes. This method helps select the node with the highest score by utilizing complex decision attitudes, making it an accurate primary node election solution. Furthermore, the feasibility of our proposed method is proved by both theoretical analysis and experimental evaluations.
Influence of Al11Ce3 Size and Distribution on the Electrochemical Properties of Sonoprocessed Al-10 wt.% Ce Alloy
Authors: El-Hadad S. , Moussa M. E. , Shoeib M.
Published: September 2022

Solidification of Al–Ce alloys under ultrasonic vibrations (Sonoprocessing) has a significant effect on the refining of Al11Ce3 intermetallic, which plays a key role in controlling the properties of this group of high-performance characteristics. In the current research, a group of as-received Al-10 wt% Ce alloys that were sonoprocessed under different temperatures was characterized. The influence of Al11Ce3 intermetallic size and distribution on the electrochemical properties of these alloys was investigated. Polarization tests in 3.5% NaCl solution were carried out and the recorded Tafel and impedance curves were studied. The corrosion test results were related to the microstructure characteristics as affected by sonoprocessing. Investigation of the as-received samples showed that ultrasonic vibrations broke the long lath-shaped particles of Al11Ce3 and obviously decreased their size and increased their surface area fraction. Sonoprocessing at the optimum temperature, 655 °C, reduced the Al11Ce3 particles size by 90% and enhanced their distribution in the matrix. This in its turn resulted in significant effects on their electrochemical behavior. Polarization tests showed that the corrosion rate of the un-sonoprocessed specimen decreased from ~ 0.00068 to 0.00006 mm/year after processing at the optimum condition (655 °C), and the polarization resistance increased from ~ 71 to 343 kΩ. By increasing the temperature of ultrasonic treatment beyond 655 °C, and the corresponding coarsening of the intermetallic particles, the corrosion rate slowly increased again, and concurrently, the polarization resistance decreased. The size and distribution of the intermetallic particles also influenced the formation of the corrosion pits, where the optimum sample showed shallow pits compared to those observed in the unprocessed specimen. This emphasizes the role of sonoprocessing in controlling the microstructure features and hence the electrochemical properties of Al-10 wt% Ce alloys.
A practicable and reliable test for metal powder spreadability: development of test and analysis technique
Authors: Hulme Christopher Neil , Mellin Pelle , Marchetti Lorenzo , Hari Vignesh , Uhlirsch Markus , Strandh Emil , Saeidi Kamran , Dubiez-Le Goff Sophie , Saleem Saud , Pettersson Victor , Memarpour Arashk , Jakobsson Karin , Meurling Fredrik
Published: September 2022

A crucial step in the powder bed metal additive manufacturing process is the formation of a thin layer of powder on top of the existing material. The propensity of the powder to form thin layers under the conditions used in additive manufacturing is critically important, but no test method has yet been established to measure this characteristic, which is sometimes referred to as spreadability. The current work spreads a single layer of powder using commercial equipment from the paint and food industries and derives the density of a layer of powder, which is of a similar thickness to that in additive manufacturing. Twenty-four powders from eight suppliers have been tested and the density of the layers has been measured as a function of various parameters. Twenty-two of the powders successfully form thin layers, with a density of at least 40% of each powder’s apparent density. Hall flow time did not correlate with the spread layer density, although the two powders that did not spread did not pass through the Hall funnel. The roughness of the plate onto which the powder was spread, the recoater speed, the layer thickness, particle size and aspect ratio all affect the measured layer density. Results of the new test are repeatable and reproducible. These findings can be used to develop a test for spreadability for metal powders that can be used for additive manufacturing, which will help to improve the quality of printed components.
On conjugacy of natural extensions of one-dimensional maps
Authors: BOROŃSKI J. , MINC P. , ŠTIMAC S.
Published: September 2022

We prove that for any non-degenerate dendriteD, there exist topologically mixing maps$F : D \to D$and$f : [0, 1] \to [0, 1]$such that the natural extensions (as known as shift homeomorphisms)$\sigma _F$and$\sigma _f$are conjugate, and consequently the corresponding inverse limits are homeomorphic. Moreover, the mapfdoes not depend on the dendriteDand can be selected so that the inverse limit$\underleftarrow {\lim } (D,F)$is homeomorphic to the pseudo-arc. The result extends to any finite number of dendrites. Our work is motivated by, but independent of, the recent result of the first and third author on conjugation of Lozi and Hénon maps to natural extensions of dendrite maps.
The preservation of cause and effect in the rock record
Authors: D'Antonio Michael P. , Ibarra Daniel E. , Boyce C. Kevin
Published: September 2022

Evolutionary events may impact the geological carbon cycle via transient imbalances in silicate weathering, and such events have been implicated as causes of glaciations, mass extinctions, and oceanic anoxia. However, suggested evolutionary causes often substantially predate the environmental effects to which they are linked—problematic when carbon cycle perturbations must be resolved in less than a million years to maintain Earth's habitability. What is more, the geochemical signatures of such perturbations are recorded as they occur in widely distributed marine sedimentary rocks that have been densely sampled for important intervals in Earth history, whereas the fossil record—particularly on land—is governed by the availability of sedimentary basins that are patchy in both space and time, necessitating lags between the origination of an evolutionary lineage and its earliest occurrence in the fossil record. Here, we present a simple model of the impact of preservational filtering on sampling to show that an evolutionary event that causes an environmental perturbation via weathering imbalance should not appear earlier in the rock record than the perturbation itself and, if anything, should appear later rather than simultaneously. The Devonian Hangenberg glaciation provides an example of how evolutionary events might be more fruitfully considered as potential causes of environmental perturbations. Just as the last samplings of species lost in mass extinction are expected to come before the true environmental event, first appearance should be expected to postdate the geological expression of a lineage's environmental impact with important implications for our reading of Earth history.
A RADIOCARBON CHRONOLOGY FOR ESTADIO DE QUILLOTA IN THE ACONCAGUA VALLEY, CENTRAL CHILE, WITH REFERENCE TO THE ADOPTION OF INTENSIVE MAIZE AGRICULTURE AND REVISITING THE TIMING OF INKA INFLUENCE ON THE SOUTHERN FRONTIER
Authors: Swift Jaime L , Fuenzalida Bahamodes Nicole , Schulting Rick J
Published: September 2022

Estadio de Quillota (EDQ) is the largest known pre-Columbian cemetery site within the Aconcagua Valley of Central Chile. Despite its importance, existing chronological data for EDQ are limited and questions remain regarding the prehistory of the Valley, particularly around the adoption and intensification of maize agriculture, as well as the timing of Inka influence reaching the region. Seventeen new AMS radiocarbon dates presented here indicate two distinct phases of use at EDQ: An earlier phase (339–196 cal BC to cal AD 128–339), and a later phase (cal AD 1280–1387 to cal AD 1413–1458). Accompanying stable isotope (δ13C and δ15N) analyses of human bone collagen (n=22) demonstrate diachronic dietary changes corresponding to these phases, with a reliance on terrestrial C3 resources during the earlier period, followed by a heavy dependence on C4-based (maize) resources during the later use. Bayesian modeling of the dates from Late Period contexts suggests Inka influence arrived in Central Chile by ca. cal AD 1400, decades before the date cited in traditional chronologies, AD 1471. Inka expansion likely occurred here with an initial phase of interaction and exchange preceding a later phase of integration. This finding supports growing evidence that the traditional chronology of the Inka Empire requires reconsideration.
Ages of American Capitalism: A History of the United States
Authors: Lamoreaux Naomi R.
Published: September 2022

When people ask me, as they often do, to recommend a single-volume overview of American economic history, I always feel stumped. Sometimes I suggest textbooks in the field, sadly all out of date at this writing, and sometimes monographs that cover specific periods or topics. Now, finally, I have a good answer. I can recommend Jonathan Levy's Ages of American Capitalism. A comprehensive narrative that runs from the colonial period through the recent financial crisis, the book is broader than the accounts most economic historians would offer in that it pays considerable attention to Americans’ cultural responses to economic change. At the same, time, however, it provides up-to-date coverage of the relevant economics literature, making it accessible to readers not able to follow the econometrics. Undoubtedly, specialists will find things to quibble about. I did. But that goes with the territory. The bottom line is that Ages of American Capitalism is an impressive work of synthesis that everyone interested in American history should read.
Ideologies of Voice Type and Ravel's L'heure espagnole
Authors: Kapusta John
Published: September 2022

Despite the advent of voice studies, opera scholars have yet to develop a thoroughgoing conversation about one of the most familiar elements of operatic vocal culture: voice type (categories such as soprano, tenor and the like). To address this, I suggest opera scholars analyse ideologies of voice type: the complex of ideas and practices that guide how individuals understand voice types and their relevance to the operatic experience. I devote the main part of this article to a historical case study of ideologies of voice type in action, focusing on Maurice Ravel, his 1911 opera L'heure espagnole, and the relatively obscure voice type Ravel assigned to Ramiro, the opera's male protagonist, the baryton-Martin. I argue that the characteristically modern ideology of voice type Ravel adopted in L'heure espagnole was unusual for its time and that this helps explains the work's reception.
A PROPERLY SCIENTIFIC NATURALISM CAN BE COMPATIBLE WITH CLASSICAL THEISM
Authors: Nemes Steven
Published: September 2022

One might think at first glance that naturalism excludes any form of theism by definition. This article argues to the contrary that proper scientificity requires that a naturalist remain open to the possibility of the truth of the classical theistic conception of God in particular. The only alternative is for naturalism to devolve into an anti-theistic bias and ideology, forsaking the claim to being properly scientific.
Impact Crater off the African Coast May Be Linked to Chicxulub
Authors: Kornei Katherine
Published: September 2022

The underwater crater, spotted serendipitously in commercial observations of seafloor sediments, is believed to have formed at roughly the same time as the famous Cretaceous-Paleogene impact event.
On the Existence of Summer Shamal Wind Induced by the Zagros Mountains in the Middle East
Authors: Mofidi Abbas , Zarrin Azar
Published: September 2022

A new structure is proposed to explain the mechanism governing the summer Shamal wind (SSW) formation in the Middle East (ME). Here, the irreplaceable role of the Zagros Mountains (ZAG) as the primary driver of a localized atmospheric circulation over the ME has been clarified. We show that the SSW is mainly established and maintained due to the local forcing of the ZAG. A background low‐level easterly flow dominates on the east side of the ZAG which is basically from Turkmenistan Anticyclone. The flow in association with a vertical heat advection over the ZAG while generating Iran anticyclone (IA) in the middle troposphere, develops so‐called regional atmospheric circulation over the ME. As a part of the localized circulation, descending air from IA establishes the Arabian anticyclone‐Zagros Trough coupling pattern over Mesopotamia. This coupling pattern is the significant driver of SSW and its induced dust storms over the ME.
Secular Trends in Global Tides Derived From Satellite Radar Altimetry
Authors: Bij de Vaate I. , Slobbe D. C. , Verlaan M.
Published: September 2022

Previous studies have demonstrated that tides are subject to considerable changes on secular time scales. However, these studies rely on sea level observations from tide gauges that are predominantly located in coastal and shelf regions and therefore, the large‐scale patterns remain uncertain. Now, for the first time, satellite radar altimetry (TOPEX/Poseidon & Jason series) has been used to study worldwide linear trends in tidal harmonic constants of four major tides (M2, S2, O1, and K1). This study demonstrates both the potential and challenges of using satellite data for the quantification of such long‐term changes. Two alternative methods were implemented. In the first method, tidal harmonic constants were estimated for consecutive 4‐year periods, from which the linear change was then estimated. In the second method, the estimation of linear trends in the tidal constants of the four tides was integrated in the harmonic analysis. First, both methods were assessed by application to tide gauge data that were sub‐sampled to the sampling scheme of the satellites. Thereafter the methods were applied to the real satellite data. Results show both statistically significant decreases and increases in amplitude up to 1 mm/year and significant phase changes up to ∼0.1 deg/year. The level of agreement between altimeter‐derived trends and estimates from tide gauge data differs per region and per tide.
Stimulation of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex blocks the return of subcortically mediated fear responses
Authors: Szeska Christoph , Pünjer Hannah , Riemann Steffen , Meinzer Marcus , Hamm Alfons O.
Published: September 2022

The ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) mediates the inhibition of defensive responses upon encounters of cues, that had lost their attribute as a threat signal via previous extinction learning. Here, we investigated whether such fear extinction recall can be facilitated by anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Extinction recall was tested twenty-four hours after previously acquired fear was extinguished. Either anodal tDCS or sham stimulation targeting the vmPFC was applied during this test. After stimulation ceased, we examined return of fear after subjects had been re-exposed to aversive events. Fear was assessed by reports of threat expectancy and modulations of autonomic (skin conductance, heart rate) and protective reflex (startle potentiation) measures, the latter of which are mediated by subcortical defense circuits. While tDCS did not affect initial extinction recall, it abolished the return of startle potentiation and autonomic components of the fear response. Results suggest hierarchical multi-level vmPFC functions in human fear inhibition and indicate, that its stimulation might immunize against relapses into pathological subcortically mediated defensive activation.
Current understanding of osteoarthritis pathogenesis and relevant new approaches
Authors: Tong Liping , Yu Huan , Huang Xingyun , Shen Jie , Xiao Guozhi , Chen Lin , Wang Huaiyu , Xing Lianping , Chen Di
Published: September 2022

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common degenerative joint disease that causes painful swelling and permanent damage to the joints in the body. The molecular mechanisms of OA are currently unknown. OA is a heterogeneous disease that affects the entire joint, and multiple tissues are altered during OA development. To better understand the pathological mechanisms of OA, new approaches, methods, and techniques need to be used to understand OA pathogenesis. In this review, we first focus on the epigenetic regulation of OA, with a particular focus on DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA regulation, followed by a summary of several key mediators in OA-associated pain. We then introduce several innovative techniques that have been and will continue to be used in the fields of OA and OA-associated pain, such as CRISPR, scRNA sequencing, and lineage tracing. Next, we discuss the timely updates concerning cell death regulation in OA pathology, including pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and autophagy, as well as their individual roles in OA and potential molecular targets in treating OA. Finally, our review highlights new directions on the role of the synovial lymphatic system in OA. An improved understanding of OA pathogenesis will aid in the development of more specific and effective therapeutic interventions for OA.