bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Core excitation in 92Mo up to high spin
Authors: Malik Vishal , Palit R , Srivastava P C , Dey P , Patel Deepak , Das Biswajit , Negi D , Garg U , Raut R , Goel Nidhi , Kundu A , Sindhu A , Nag Somnath
Published: November 2024

An in-beam gamma-ray spectroscopy study of the even–even nucleus 92Mo has been carried out using the 30Si + 65Cu, 18O + 80Se reactions at beam energies of 120 and 99 MeV, respectively. Angular distribution from the oriented state ratio (R
ADO) and linear polarization (Δasym) measurements have fixed most of the tentatively assigned spin-parity of the high-energy levels. A large-scale shell-model calculation using the GWBXG interaction has been carried out to understand the configuration and structure of both positive and negative parity states up to the highest observed spin. The high-spin states primarily originate from the coupling of excited proton- and neutron-core structures in an almost stretched manner. The systematics of the energy required to form a neutron particle-hole pair excitation, ν
g
9/2 → ν
d
5/2, is discussed. The lifetimes of a few high-spin states have been measured using the Doppler shift attenuation method. Additionally, a qualitative argument is proposed to explain the comparatively strong E1 transition feeding the 7310.9 keV level.
Investigation of optical and thermoelectric characteristics of novel zintl-phase alloys CaZn2X2 (X = P, As, Sb) for green energy applications
Authors: Alkhaldi Hanof Dawas
Published: November 2024

This study examines the photovoltaic and thermoelectric response of calcium-based novel Zintl-phase alloys CaZn2X2 (X = P, As, Sb). The structural, optoelectronics, and transport features of Zintl CaZn2X2 (X = P, As, Sb) compounds have been analyzed using the full potential linearized augmented plane wave (FPLAPW) technique. Investigations on formation energy and phonon dispersion have confirmed the formation and dynamical stabilities. These compounds exhibit a semiconductor behavior, as their predicted bandgap values: 1.76 eV for CaZn2P2, 1.14 eV for CaZn2As2, and 0.32 eV for CaZn2Sb2. By investigating the optical properties, we have discovered their potential applicability in optoelectronic and photovoltaic devices, as evidenced by the optical response of these phases. The traditional Boltzmann transport theory has assessed transport characteristics against temperature and chemical potential. Significantly higher values of the Seebeck coefficient are achieved at room and elevated temperatures. Moreover, the power factor demonstrates a linear relationship with rising temperature. The remarkable optoelectronic properties and exceptional power factor values suggest that these materials are suitable for deployment in photovoltaic and transport devices.
Coupled coherent states method for tunneling dynamics: an interpretative study
Authors: Grossmann Frank
Published: November 2024

Numerical solutions of the time-dependent Schrödinger equation based on the variational principle may offer physical insight that cannot be gained by a solution using fixed grids in position and momentum space. Here we focus on the tunneling dynamics in a quartic double-well and the use of classical, trajectory-guided coherent states to gain insight into the workings of the coupled coherent states method developed by Shalashilin and Child [J. Chem. Phys. 113, 10028 (2000)]. It is shown that over-the-barrier classical trajectories, alone, can accurately describe the tunneling effect.
A frame approach to generalized Wigner quasi-probability functions for finite systems
Authors: Sojo Antonio , Guerrero Julio , Mayorgas Alberto , Calixto Manuel
Published: November 2024

In this paper we address the definition and explicit computation of quasi-probability functions, such as the Wigner function, for the discrete systems with SU(D) symmetry. To do so, we introduce the concept of coherent superstates and super-frames, that gives a natural interpretation to the Stratonovich-Weyl approach to phase-space quantum mechanics. The expressions that we obtain are compatible with previous results while they are more general and give an insight into how this problem might be solved for more complex cases. In addition, time evolution for quasi-probability functions is addressed using the aforementioned formalism and some examples are given.
Boundary equivalent model and optimization of glass fiber reinforced composite storage tanks based on theory of plates and shells
Authors: Song Jiangle , Chen Dong , Su Yifan , Wang Dan , Shi Jianwei , Cui Kai , Wang Wenjie , Noda Nao-Aki
Published: November 2024

Glass fiber reinforced composites are widely used in storage tanks for corrosive liquids such as hydrochloric acid. In order to solve the leakage problem of a certain factory’s storage tanks. The type and failure region were located through investigation, sampling, and mechanical testing. By considering the specific conditions, a boundary equivalent model was proposed and derived from the theory of plates and shells. It can locate and measure the cause of failure accurately, without complex numerical modelling process. By focusing on the three key parameters that can avoid failure, the tank design was optimized and the bending stress in the failure region was reduced by 43% without changing the production cost and anti-dumping ability.
Enhancing PLA/PBAT blends properties with high epoxy-functional polymer as a compatibilizer
Authors: Duan Hao , Shi Pengwei , Fan Zhongyong , Liu Dongyang , Xia Qi
Published: November 2024

In this work, a novel functional polymer with an abundance of epoxy groups (SMG) was tested as a compatibilizer to improve the compatibility of polylactic acid/1,4-butanediol terpolymer (PLA/PBAT) blends. The effect of additive dosage on the morphology, crystallization, and mechanical properties of PLA/PBAT blends was thoroughly investigated. The results showed that as little as 0.3 wt% of SMG could significantly improve the processability, compatibility, and mechanical properties of PLA/PBAT blends. In addition, SMG can be effectively applied to different ratios of PLA/PBAT blends to improve compatibility through in-situ reactions, thereby improving the strength and toughness of the blends. This modification processing technology is expected to facilitate the development and industrialization of biodegradable plastic materials based on PLA/PBAT blends.
Local reinforcement of unidirectional BFRP bolted joints using co-curing of metal foils layer-by-layer
Authors: Cao Shenghu , Zhang Jian , Xie Min , Li Yu , Chen Jingkuo , Cao Dangqi
Published: November 2024

The reinforced design of composite bolt connections has been a research hotspot in the field of composite structural mechanics because they are the force transfer hub of composite component connections and the weak link in the entire structure, which determines the bearing capacity of the entire structure. In order to provide local reinforcement, metal foil is layered into the area close to the bolt hole in this paper’s experimental testing of the unidirectional basalt fiber reinforced polymer (BFRP) composite bolted connection. The findings demonstrate that this reinforced design raises the bolt hole bearing and increases the bearing capacity by 232% while also altering the unreinforced joint’s mode of failure. By layering the metal foil into the bolt hole area, it is evident that the reinforced design of the composite bolt connection is effective.
Particle spacing and stability of initially staggered deformable particle trains migrating in a channel
Authors: Xu Chenhao , Huang Lizhong , Li Yang , Wang Ruijin , Shao Chun , Zhu Zefei
Published: November 2024

We investigated the inertial migration of deformable particles in a two-dimensional channel flow. This study analyzes the effects of the channel Reynolds number (Re), channel blockage ratio (k), particle number (Np
) and reduced bending modulus (Eb
) on the formation of staggered particle trains. The results show that the stable normalized distance

d

p

e
q

/

H

between two staggered particles is influenced by Re, k and Eb
, where H is the channel width. As k increases or Eb
decreases,

d

p

e
q

/

H

decreases. The value of

d

p

e
q

/

H

initially increases and then decreases with the increase of Re; when Eb
is large and k is small,

d

p

e
q

/

H

continuously increases with increasing Re. With the increase of Np
, the closely arranged staggered particle trains evolve into five distinct migration Regimes. We explain the conditions for the formation of each Regime and explore the mechanisms of their interconversion. The findings of this study contribute to a better understanding of the self-organization process of deformable particles in channel flow.
Disability Studies in the Wake of Disability Justice
Authors: Sterne Jonathan
Published: November 2024

Three new books—Mel Y Chen, Alison Kafer, Eunjung Kim, and Julie Avril Minich’s edited Crip Genealogies, Stephanie Kerschbaum’s Signs of Disability, and Margaret Price’s Crip Spacetime—are part of a wave of academic responses to the disability justice movement. This review brings out their shared theme of a more intersectional disability studies, as well as their critique of the university, especially the failure of institutions’ approach to access for disabled and chronically ill scholars. In the wake of that failure, there are several options: intersectional gatherings, access priming, labor organizing, and building our own structures of access outside official institutional frameworks.
American Poetry and Society
Authors: Hunter Walt
Published: November 2024

Three recent books of poetry scholarship illuminate different answers to the question: What social function does poetry have? Moving between institutions and the poems that are produced in relation to them, these critics focus on poetry’s parroting of common clichés, euphemisms, and banalities, on its engagement with historical concepts, and on its conscription into liberalism and nationalism.
Neural representations of phonological information in bilingual language production
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , Wu Xiaoyan , Feng Yuan , Yang Jingyu , Gu Nannan , Mei Leilei
Published: November 2024

Previous research has explored the neural mechanisms of bilinguals’ language production, but most studies focused on neural mechanisms of cognitive control during language production. Therefore, it is unclear which brain regions represent lexical information (especially phonological information) during production and how they are affected by language context. To address those questions, we used representational similarity analysis to explore neural representations of phonological information in native (L1) and second languages (L2) in the single- and mixed-language contexts, respectively. Results showed that Chinese–English bilinguals behaviorally performed worse and exhibited more activations in brain regions associated with language processing and cognitive control in the mixed-language context relative to the single-language context. Further representational similarity analysis revealed that phonological representations of L1 were detected in the left pars opercularis, middle frontal gyrus, and anterior supramarginal gyrus, while phonological representations of L2 were detected in the bilateral occipitotemporal cortex regardless of the target language. More interestingly, robust phonological representations of L1 were observed in brain areas related to phonological processing during L2 production regardless of language context. These results provide direct neuroimaging evidence for the nonselective processing hypothesis and highlight the superiority of phonological representations in the dominant language during bilingual language production.
Mobility Responses to Special Tax Regimes for the Super-Rich: Evidence from Switzerland
Authors: Baselgia Enea , Martínez Isabel Z
Published: November 2024

We use a novel rich-list dataset to estimate the sensitivity of the location choices of super-rich foreigners to a special tax regime, under which wealthy foreigners are taxed based on their living expenses, rather than their true income and wealth. We are the first to show that, when some Swiss cantons repealed this controversial policy, their stock of super-rich foreigners dropped by 43% as a consequence. We find no response for the Swiss super-rich, who were unaffected by the policy change. The implied wealth and income tax mobility elasticities range between 28.4–32.2 and 1.4–1.5, respectively.
Novel Toxin Biosynthetic Gene Cluster in Harmful Algal Bloom-Causing Heteroscytonema crispum: Insights into the Origins of Paralytic Shellfish Toxins
Authors: Stern David B , Raborn R Taylor , Lovett Sean P , Boise Noelani R , Carrasquilla Lakeshia , Enke Sana , Radune Diana , Woodruff Dana L , Wahl Karen L , Rosovitz M J
Published: November 2024

Caused by both eukaryotic dinoflagellates and prokaryotic cyanobacteria, harmful algal blooms are events of severe ecological, economic, and public health consequence, and their incidence has become more common of late. Despite coordinated research efforts to identify and characterize the genomes of harmful algal bloom-causing organisms, the genomic basis and evolutionary origins of paralytic shellfish toxins produced by harmful algal blooms remain at best incomplete. The paralytic shellfish toxin saxitoxin has an especially complex genomic architecture and enigmatic phylogenetic distribution, spanning dinoflagellates and multiple cyanobacterial genera. Using filtration and extraction techniques to target the desired cyanobacteria from nonaxenic culture, coupled with a combination of short- and long-read sequencing, we generated a reference-quality hybrid genome assembly for Heteroscytonema crispum UTEX LB 1556, a freshwater, paralytic shellfish toxin-producing cyanobacterium thought to have the largest known genome in its phylum. We report a complete, novel biosynthetic gene cluster for the paralytic shellfish toxin saxitoxin. Leveraging this biosynthetic gene cluster, we find support for the hypothesis that paralytic shellfish toxin production has appeared in divergent Cyanobacteria lineages through widespread and repeated horizontal gene transfer. This work demonstrates the utility of long-read sequencing and metagenomic assembly toward advancing our understanding of paralytic shellfish toxin biosynthetic gene cluster diversity and suggests a mechanism for the origin of paralytic shellfish toxin biosynthetic genes.
Longitudinal transitions of the double burden of overweight and stunting from childhood to early adulthood in India, Peru, and Vietnam
Authors: Escher Nora A , Carrillo-Larco Rodrigo M , Parnham Jennie C , Curi-Quinto Katherine , Ghosh-Jerath Suparna , Millett Christopher , Seferidi Paraskevi
Published: November 2024

Background

Examining trajectories of undernutrition and overnutrition separately limits understanding of the double burden of malnutrition. We investigated transitions between normal, stunting, overweight and concurrent stunting and overweight (CSO) and associations with sociodemographic factors in children and adolescents.

Methods

We used data from the Young Lives cohort in India, Peru and Vietnam, which follow children 1–15 (N = 5413) and 8–22 years (N = 2225) over five rounds between 2002 and 2016. We estimated transitions between nutritional states using a Markov chain model and estimated sociodemographic associations employing a logit parametrization.

Results

Transitions into stunting peaked in ages 1–5 years (India: 22.9%, Peru: 17.6%, Vietnam: 14.8%), while stunting reversal was highest during adolescence across all countries. Transitions into overweight peaked in ages 19–22, while overweight reversal increased in ages 1–5 and 12–15 years. Transitions away from stunting to overweight were rare; more commonly, stunted individuals developed overweight while remaining stunted, leading to a CSO state. In Peru, 20.2% of 19-year-olds who were stunted reached CSO by age 22, with 4% shifting from stunted to overweight. Reversion to a normal state is least likely for those in a CSO state. Household wealth gradually reduced the likelihood of transitioning into stunting [odds ratios (ORs) for wealthiest quartile in Peru: 0.29, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.20–0.41; India: 0.43, 95% CI 0.32–0.57; Vietnam: 0.36, 95% CI 0.26–0.50), with stunting reversal only being more likely in the two wealthiest quartiles across all countries (ORs for wealthiest quartile in Peru: 2.39, 95% CI 1.57–3.65; India: 1.28, 95% CI 1.05–1.54; Vietnam: 1.89, 95% CI 1.23–2.91). In Vietnam, only the richest quartile was at higher risk of transitioning into overweight (OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.28–2.72), while in Peru and India, the risk gradually rose across all wealth quartiles (ORs for wealthiest quartile in Peru: 2.84, 95% CI 2.14–3.77; India: 2.99, 95% CI 1.61–5.54).

Conclusions

Childhood and adolescence represent critical periods for prevention and reversal of stunting and overweight, thereby averting the development of CSO later in life. Context-specific interventions are crucial for preventing disparate transitions towards the double burden of malnutrition across socioeconomic groups.
Annual Clinical and Economic Burden of Medically Attended Lower Respiratory Tract Illnesses Due to Respiratory Syncytial Virus Among US Infants Aged <12 Months
Authors: Houde Linnea , Law Amy W , Averin Ahuva , Weycker Derek , Cane Alejandro , Pugh Sarah , Shea Kimberly M
Published: November 2024

We developed a model to project the expected annual clinical and economic burden of medically attended lower respiratory tract illnesses due to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV-LRTI) among United States (US) infants aged <12 months by combining information on population size, disease rates, mortality rates, and unit costs. Among the 3.7 million US infants aged <12 months each year, a total of 592 700 cases of RSV-LRTI (hospitalizations: 48 499; emergency department visits: 144 599; outpatient clinic visits: 399 602) were projected to occur, yielding total annual costs of $1.6 billion. The annual burden of RSV-LRTI among US infants is considerable, especially among those aged <3 months, who account for 43% of total costs.
Artificial intelligence-enhanced biosurveillance for antimicrobial resistance in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Ayesiga Innocent , Yeboah Michael Oppong , Okoro Lenz Nwachinemere , Edet Eneh Nchiek , Gmanyami Jonathan Mawutor , Ovye Ahgu , Atimango Lorna , Gadzama Bulus Naya , Kembabazi Emilly , Atwau Pius
Published: November 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) remains a critical global health threat, with significant impacts on individuals and healthcare systems, particularly in low-income countries. By 2019, AMR was responsible for >4.9 million fatalities globally, and projections suggest this could rise to 10 million annually by 2050 without effective interventions. Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) faces considerable challenges in managing AMR due to insufficient surveillance systems, resulting in fragmented data. Technological advancements, notably artificial intelligence (AI), offer promising avenues to enhance AMR biosurveillance. AI can improve the detection, tracking and prediction of resistant strains through advanced machine learning and deep learning algorithms, which analyze large datasets to identify resistance patterns and develop predictive models. AI's role in genomic analysis can pinpoint genetic markers and AMR determinants, aiding in precise treatment strategies. Despite the potential, SSA's implementation of AI in AMR surveillance is hindered by data scarcity, infrastructural limitations and ethical concerns. This review explores what is known about the integration and applicability of AI-enhanced biosurveillance methodologies in SSA, emphasizing the need for comprehensive data collection, interdisciplinary collaboration and the establishment of ethical frameworks. By leveraging AI, SSA can significantly enhance its AMR surveillance capabilities, ultimately improving public health outcomes.
Sensitivity of transcriptomics: Different samples and methodology alter conclusions in Gulf pipefish (Syngnathus scovelli)
Authors: Johnson Bernadette D , Rose Emily , Jones Adam G
Published: November 2024

Transcriptome analysis has become a central tool in evolutionary and functional genomics. However, variation among biological samples and analysis techniques can greatly influence results, potentially compromising insights into the phenomenon under study. Here, we evaluate differences in the brain transcriptome between female and male Gulf pipefish (Syngnathus scovelli). We perform comparisons between results from entire pipelines for brain transcriptome assembly, quantification, and analysis. We also offer a unique biological comparison between two sampling instances (Redfish Bay: n = 15, Port Lavaca: n = 7). Our results demonstrate crucial shortcomings with current experimental approaches. We found high variation within our results that was driven by both technical differences between pipelines and biological differences between pipefish samples. In our analysis of highly expressed genes, we found that the choice of methods influenced the degree of contamination or noise included in the identified genes. Notably, genes identified within the same pipeline were more similar than any other comparison. Our differential expression analysis revealed that both methodology and sampling location influenced the quantity and consistency of statistically significant transcripts. In the context of these results, we offer modifications to current practices that may increase the robustness of transcriptome-based conclusions. In particular, the use of a reference-guided assembly and an increase in sample sizes are likely to improve resistance to noise or error.
The Business Case for Simulation-based Hospital Design Testing; $90M Saved in Costs Avoided
Authors: Colman Nora , Chelette Christopher , Woodward Jayne , Chambers Misty , Stanley Kimberly , Walter Sarah , Lampe Heimbuch Vanessa , Webster Caitlin , Hebbar Kiran
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

Simulation-based hospital design testing (SbHDT) applied during the design of a healthcare facility ensures that the architectural design supports safe, high-quality, and efficient care delivery beyond applicable building code compliance. This prospective investigation assesses the financial impact of SbHDT in the form of cost avoidance.

Methods:

In designing a new free-standing 400+ bed children’s hospital, SbHDT identified latent conditions early in the planning process to mitigate safety concerns related to the proposed design of 15 clinical areas. Architectural modifications were made to address concerns and resolve latent conditions before construction. The estimated cost of materials and labor to make an architectural change was documented for each architectural modification. Unit cost multiplied by unit count for each design element changed was summed together as total cost avoidance.

Results:

The cost to conduct the simulation was $1.6M (0.01% of overall project cost). Seven hundred twenty-two latent conditions were identified, and 57% of those latent conditions were mitigated by design changes. Ninety million dollars in costs were avoided by making design modifications before construction. Twenty-eight percent of latent conditions (n = 117) would have been cost-prohibitive to modify after construction.

Conclusions:

SbHDT harnessed evidence-based design to improve clinical care, optimize safety, and maximize investment. SbHDT was financially practical and had a significant impact on cost avoidance. Implementing SbHDT is associated with upfront costs, but long-term savings will accumulate over time through expenses avoided through mitigation of safety threats and operational savings.
Is the Transplantation of Elderly and DCD Donors in Low MELD Recipients Justified: An Intent-to-treat Analysis
Authors: Malik Tahir H. , Keeney Emma , Jang Anna , Hafeez Muhammad Saad , McDonald Malcolm F. , Goff Cameron , Anand Adrish , Allam Anthony , Mitrani Robert , Cholankeril George , O’Mahony Christine , Cotton Ronald , Galvan Thao N. , Goss John A. , Rana Abbas A.
Published: November 2024

Background.

Thousands of people die or are removed from the liver transplant waitlist because of deterioration. One major challenge is the donor shortage. Increasing extended criteria donor (ECD) allograft usage can address this. We assessed whether transplanting ECD allografts provides a survival benefit versus remaining on the waitlist for standard allocation.

Methods.

A retrospective analysis of 132 073 liver transplant recipients from 2002 to 2020 via the United National Organ Sharing database was performed. Three survival analyses were performed on model end-stage liver disease (MELD) score inclusive ranges: 8–9, 10–15, and 16–18. Within each analysis, cohorts were divided into “transplanted” or the corresponding “intent-to-treat (ITT)” category. The transplanted cohort was separated into 2 definitions of ECD allografts: donations after circulatory death and donations from donors older than 70 y, along with all-other allografts. Ten-year survival was compared between the 3 transplanted groups and the ITT group.

Results.

When adjusted for covariates, multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analyses demonstrated that both ECD allografts and all-other allografts had better survival as compared with the ITT cohorts in each of separate analyses for MELD range 10–15 and MELD range 16–18 (P < 0.05).

Conclusions.

In patients with MELD scores as low as 10, there is a survival benefit to using ECD allografts compared with those followed on an ITT basis.
Values, Preferences, and Risk Tolerance of People Waitlisted for a Kidney Transplant Regarding Potential Deceased Donor Organ Profiles: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cutting Rachel B. , Muscat Danielle M. , Patel Pinika , De La Mata Nicole L. , Irish Georgina L. , Wyld Melanie , White Sarah , Webster Angela C.
Published: November 2024

Background.

Incorporating the views of people waitlisted for a kidney transplant is important when clinicians consider any donor kidney offer.

Methods.

We conducted a systematic review of quantitative and qualitative studies in adult patients on, or under assessment for, the kidney waitlist. We focused on views of extended criteria, increased viral (blood-borne virus), or increased cancer risk in deceased donor kidneys. We systematically searched databases and conference proceedings until April 2024, excluding studies of children, case reports, and commentaries. Studies were appraised using the Johanna Briggs Institute checklists and synthesized using a convergent segregated approach, incorporating narrative and thematic methods.

Results.

We included 25 studies (2630 participants) comprising quantitative surveys, questionnaires, conjoint analysis, and discrete choice experiments (n = 16; 64%) and qualitative semi-structured, in-depth interviews and focus groups (n = 9; 36%). Most studies were from the United States (n = 19; 76%) and focused on extended criteria and increased viral risk donors (n = 24; 96%), with one study considering general risks (4%). None focused on increased cancer-risk donors. We identified 4 themes and 2 subthemes: (1) I want to be free from dialysis, (2) I do not want more health problems, (3) I might not get another chance, (4) I desire shared decision-making but feel powerless to contribute, (4a) I need more information about my health status, prognosis and the transplant process, and (4b) I need more information about donor risk factors.

Conclusions.

Waitlist patients desired information and involvement in decision-making, yet individual prognoses were not fully understood. Integrating shared decision-making from pre- to post-offer will increase knowledge and enhance treatment satisfaction.
Gummatous mitral valve endocarditis from tertiary syphilis
Authors: George Nisha , Pan Daniel , Sze Shirley , Williams Caroline , El-Dean Zein , Zlocha Victor , Webb Elizabeth , Pareek Manish
Published: November 2024

A 50-year old Romanian gentleman presented with fever, myalgia and 30kg weight loss. He was treated for syphilis previously, after acquiring it from his ex-wife 16 years ago. On examination, there was a pansystolic murmur in the axilla, and the patient had an ataxic gait. Blood tests showed raised inflammatory markers. However, standard investigations for infective endocarditis, including multiple blood cultures, serological titres for fastidious organisms and antibody tests were negative.
 
CT of the chest, abdomen and pelvis demonstrated hepatosplenomegaly with multiple splenic infarcts. MRI of the head with contrast showed multiple punctate enhancement in the bilateral hemispheres with leptomeningeal enhancement. Transthoracic echocardiogram demonstrated large vegetation leading to severe mitral regurgitation. Serum treponemal antibodies were positive; TPPA was positive at 1:1280 and RPR: 1:4 Treponemal IgM was negative; lumbar puncture syphilis serology was negative. The patient was treated with an extensive period of intravenous antibiotics, in addition to a prosthetic metallic valve replacement, where unusual ragged calcified valvular tissue was observed. 
 
Tertiary syphilis is a difficult diagnosis to confirm, since it can often be indolent and occur in areas of the body where they may go unnoticed. In our case, a diagnosis of syphilitic endocarditis was made from a combination of the history, an initial increase in size of the lesion following antibiotic therapy and observation of likely gumma on the mitral valve during surgery. In such cases, surgery in addition to optimal antimicrobial therapy is necessary for effective treatment.
Reconstructing 3D Spatial Structures of RNA-Tomography Transcriptomes by Tensor Factorization
Authors: Song Tianci , Nguyen Quoc , Kuang Rui
Published: November 2024

Cells are structurally organized in complex tissues. Mapping the organization of the cells requires reliable 3D molecular profiling. Technologies based on microdissections of tissues provide deep RNA sequencing of orthographically arranged cryosections of a tissue such that the full 3D spatial structure can be reconstructed from deeply sequenced transcriptomes in three views projected like a 3D tomography. In this work, we introduce a method, TFacTomo, to learn a Tensor Factorization for RNA Tomography data from cryosections for constructing 3D spatially resolved gene expressions. TFacTomo combines tensor factorization with a loss function supervised by collapsing the tensor entries to match the gene expressions and tissue mask in each cryosection. To incorporate spatial and functional prior, a regularization by a product graph of the PPI network and spatial graphs is also introduced. In the experiments, TFacTomo is applied to two simulation datasets constructed from a 3D ST mouse brain dataset and a 3D ST human heart dataset, and two RNA Tomography datasets, one from zebrafish embryo and the other from mouse olfactory mucosa. In the simulation, TFacTomo significantly outperforms the benchmark method IPF in the accuracy of predicting the ground-truth gene expressions in the ST datasets based on the projected 1D spatial gene expressions of three orthographic views. In the two RNA Tomography datasets, TFacTomo detects 3D spatial expressions of several marker genes that are consistent with the developmental or functional regions in comparison to staining images. Visual comparisons also suggest that TFacTomo detects more focused regions than the state-of-the-art method.
The assessment of therapeutic autophagy inhibition in NF1 mutated tumor cells
Authors: Zahedi Shadi , Baird-Daniel Eliza , Williams Kyle B. , Williams Rory L. , Morin Andrew , Crespo Michelle , Bratbak Emil , Jones Kendra , Vibhakar Rajeev , Foreman Nicolas K. , Largaespada David A. , Mulcahy Levy Jean
Published: November 2024

MAPK pathway activation is found across central nervous system tumors. Neurofibromin 1 (NF1) protein is a GTPase-activating protein and tumor suppressor that negatively regulates RAS protein activity. A NF1 loss of function mutation results in MAPK pathway upregulation and is associated with pediatric gliomas. We previously demonstrated autophagy inhibition improves tumor response to BRAF inhibition. Here we investigate the role of autophagy in NF1 cells in the presence or absence of MEK inhibition (MEKi). NF1 wild type (WT) and NF1 knockout (KO) (HSC1λ, immortalized human Schwann) cells were evaluated. NF1 loss was confirmed, and cell growth was monitored by Incucyte. MAPK/ERK pathway upregulation and autophagy were evaluated via Western blot analysis and RAS pull-down. Effects of MEKi, autophagy inhibition (pharmacologic and genetic), and combination therapy were evaluated via short- and long-term growth assays. NF1 KO cells exhibited MAPK pathway upregulation and increased growth. Additionally, NF KO cells demonstrated increased autophagic activity. Loss of NF1 resulted in increased sensitivity to MEKi and autophagy inhibition alone and in combination. We also demonstrate that the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine (CQ) can improve MEKi sensitivity in a patient harboring a somatic mutation of NF1. This combination is currently being evaluated in clinical trial (NCT04201457).
Feature similarity: a sensitive method to capture the functional interaction of brain regions and networks to support flexible behavior
Authors: Wang Xiuyi , Lyu Baihan , Krieger-Redwood Katya , Souter Nicholas E , Shafiei Golia , Lin Nan , Smallwood Jonathan , Jefferies Elizabeth , Du Yi
Published: November 2024

The brain is a dynamic system where complex behaviours emerge from interactions across distributed regions. Accurately linking brain function to cognition requires tools that are sensitive to these dynamics. We introduce a novel technique - Feature Similarity (FS) - to capture intricate interaction patterns between brain systems. Our results show that FS can capture functional brain organisation: regions within the same functional network have greater FS compared to those in different networks, and FS also identifies the principal gradient that spans from unimodal to transmodal cortices. FS was found to be more sensitive to task modulation than traditional functional connectivity (FC). Specifically, FS reveals interaction patterns missed by FC, such as a double dissociation in the Dorsal Attention Network (DAN): greater interaction with the Visual network during working memory tasks and greater interaction with the default mode network (DMN) during long-term memory tasks. This study highlights FS as a promising tool for understanding flexibility in brain network dynamics.
Unique Asymmetric Branching of Drosophila Neurons Optimizes Temporal Dendritic Computation
Authors: Chou Pin-Ju , Charng Ching-Che , Ku Harrison Hao-Yu , Chiang Ann-Shyn , Lo Chung-Chuan
Published: November 2024

Neurons execute a versatile array of computations through a complex interplay of factors, including their morphology and synaptic architecture. Dendritic branching encodes upstream inputs into diverse spike patterns transmitted via downstream axons. While earlier studies highlighted the distinct morphologies and functions of a few representative neurons, the availability of large-scale electron microscopy and fluorescent imaging now enables comprehensive data analysis and further simulations to explore structure-function relationships more broadly. This study investigates the general morphological characteristics of diverse neuron types in the fly model. By employing the Strahler Order (SO) metric, we identified a specific bias towards asymmetry in neuronal branching and further investigated the effect of the asymmetry on computational capabilities. Specifically, symmetric branching enhances coincidence detection capability, whereas asymmetric branching increases input order-selectivity. While certain neurons exhibit extreme symmetry or asymmetry optimized for specific tasks, most neurons strike a balance between these computational strategies. This balance underscores the intricate relationship between neuronal structure and function. In contrast to the wide range of branching symmetries found in random bifurcation models, neurons across different species exhibit species-specific asymmetry, suggesting shared underlying branching mechanisms. Our findings provide a fresh perspective on the exploration of neuronal morphologies and their computational roles.
Light Harvesting Complex II Resists Non-Bilayer Lipid-Induced Polymorphism in Plant Thylakoid Membranes via Lipid Redistribution
Authors: Garg Avinash , Debnath Ananya
Published: November 2024

The plant thylakoid membrane hosting the light-harvesting complex (LHCII) is the site of oxygenic photosynthesis. Contrary to the earlier consensus of a protein-driven single lamellar phase of the thylakoid despite containing 40% non-bilayer-forming lipids, recent experiments confirm the polymorphic state of the functional thylakoid. What, then, is the origin of this polymorphism, and what factors control it? The current Letter addresses the question using a total of 617.8μs long coarse-grained simulations of thylakoids with and without LHCII and varying concentrations of non-bilayer lipids using Martini-2.2 and 3.0 at 323 K. The LHCII redistributes the non-bilayer lipids into its annular region, increases the bending modulus and the stalk formation free energy, reduces the non-zero mean curvature propensity, and resists the polymorphism these lipids promote. The thermodynamic trade-off between non-bilayer lipids and LHCII dictates the degree of nanoscopic curvature leading to the polymorphism crucial for non-photochemical quenching under excess heat conditions.

Graphical TOC Entry
Probing stochastic ultralight dark matter with space-based gravitational-wave interferometers
Authors: Yao Yue-Hui , Tang Yong
Published: November 2024

Ultralight particles are theoretically well-motivated dark matter candidates. In the vicinity of the Solar System, these ultralight particles can be described as a superposition of plane waves, resulting in a stochastic field with sizable amplitude fluctuations on scales determined by the velocity dispersion of dark matter. In this work, we systematically investigate the sensitivity of space-based gravitational-wave interferometers to the stochastic ultralight dark matter field within the frequentist framework. We derive the projected sensitivity of a single detector using the time-delay interferometry. Our results show that space-based gravitational-wave interferometers have the potential to probe unconstrained regions in parameter space and improve the current limit on coupling strengths. Furthermore, we explore the sensitivity of a detector network and investigate the optimal configuration for ultralight dark matter detection. We introduce the overlap reduction function for ultralight dark matter, which quantifies the degree of correlation between the signals observed by different detectors. We find that the configuration, where the signals observed by two detectors are uncorrelated, is the optimal choice for ultralight dark matter detection due to a smaller chance of missing signals. This contrasts with the detection of stochastic gravitational-wave background, where the correlated configuration is preferred. Our results may provide useful insights for potential joint observations involving space-based gravitational-wave detectors like LISA and Taiji, as well as other ultralight dark matter detection networks operating in the coherence limit.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Nonperturbative resolution of strong coupling singularities in 4D
N=1
heterotic M-theory
Authors: Cvetič Mirjam , Wiesner Max
Published: November 2024

We investigate the interior of the moduli space of four-dimensional N=1 theories of gravity arising from compactifications of the E8×E8 heterotic string on Calabi-Yau threefolds. By studying the threshold corrections to the coupling of the heterotic gauge groups, we infer the existence of a strong coupling singularity for one of the perturbative heterotic gauge groups, which effectively yields an additional finite distance boundary of the classical scalar field space. In heterotic M-theory, this boundary maps to a domain wall solution for which the gauge coupling and the warp factor on one of the Horava-Witten 9-branes diverge, thus highlighting the gravitational origin of the classical strong coupling singularity. The divergence of the warp factor is, however, regulated once nonperturbative effects are taken into account, as we demonstrate by studying the instanton corrections to the 5D BPS domain wall equations. This regularization implies that the classical strong coupling boundary of the scalar field 4D N=1 heterotic M-theory is resolved, indicating that, at the quantum level, the field space can be extended beyond this classical boundary.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Global embedding of fiber inflation in a perturbative large volume scenario
Authors: Bera Swagata , Chakraborty Dibya , Leontaris George K. , Shukla Pramod
Published: November 2024

We present a global embedding of the fiber inflation model in a perturbative large volume scenario (LVS) in which the inflationary potential is induced via a combination of string-loop corrections and higher derivative F4 effects. The minimal fiber inflation model developed in the standard LVS generically faces some strong bounds on the inflaton field range arising from the Kähler cone constraints, which subsequently creates a challenge for realizing the cosmological observables while consistently respecting the underlying supergravity approximations. The main attractive feature of this proposal is to naturally alleviate this issue by embedding fiber inflation in perturbative LVS.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
The influence of institutional context in the relationship between green management, perceived barriers to sustainability and innovation performance in SMEs
Authors: Rojas-Cabezas Germán , Mora-Esquivel Ronald , Márquez Nicolas , Chacón-Espejo Susana , Nocetti-Núñez Victor , Leiva Juan Carlos
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study examines the relationships between green management, perceived barriers to sustainability and innovation performance in Latin American SMEs and how formal and informal institutional factors influence these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a dataset collected by Iberoamerican small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) Observatory in 2022 and included 15 country-specific indicators for Latin American countries published in international data sources to address the formal and informal institutional contexts. Accordingly, the final sample comprises 11,319 SME observations from 16 countries. The analysis involved three phases. First, an R-Type Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA). Second, a cluster analysis. Third, a testing of the mediation theoretical model between the groups identified in the second study. To this purpose, the analysis included a multigroup analysis for covariance structure by three-stage procedures conducting structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

The results revealed that both formal institutions (such as government policies and regulations) and informal institutions (such as social norms and cultural values) have a positive impact of green management practices on innovative outcomes in SMEs. However, the magnitude of this impact varies depending on the level of country-specific performance of the context. Additionally, the perceived barriers to sustainability do not play an intermediary role in this relationship within both institutional contexts. However, the effect of perceived barriers to sustainability on SMEs' innovation performance is diminished in the informal institutional context.

Originality/value

These conclusions provide valuable insights for policymakers seeking to promote sustainable development in Latin America, highlighting the importance of institutional support in fostering SMEs' adoption of ecological practices.
The role of organizational learning capabilities in mediating the impact of workplace happiness on organizational citizenship behavior
Authors: Goel Preeti , Singh Animesh
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study explores the role of organizational learning capabilities in mediating the relationship between workplace happiness and organizational citizenship behavior, investigating whether the organization’s ability to foster a learning environment enhances this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

This study synthesizes the existing research and theoretical framework and explains the mechanism through which organizational learning capabilities plays a mediating role between workplace happiness and organizational citizenship behavior.

Findings

The workplace happiness influences organizational citizenship behavior, and the organizational learning capabilities act as a mediating link between workplace happiness and citizenship behavior, suggesting that a supportive learning culture can amplify the positive effects of workplace happiness on employees’ voluntary, proactive behaviors.

Originality/value

This research emphasizes the importance of developing learning-oriented organizational practices to leverage the benefits of employee happiness, ultimately contributing to enhanced citizenship behavior and organizational effectiveness.
Utilization of technology-enhanced learning tools for sustainable skills acquisition and graduate employability in tertiary institutions in Nigeria
Authors: Ohanu Ifeanyi Benedict , Nwandu Lilian Ogechi , Okadi Ashagwu Ojang , Orji Chibueze Tobias , Ejiofor Toochukwu Eleazar , Chukwuone Chiamaka Adaobi , Ibezim Nnenna Ekpereka , Osinem Emmanuel Chukwugozie
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the key technology-enhanced learning (TEL) tools vocational and technical education (VTE) teachers should learn to promote sustainable skills acquisition and graduate employability, the experiences of VTE teachers about TEL tools and the extent of the relationship between years of teaching experience and the experiences of VTE teachers about TEL tools.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample for the study is 318 teachers from 6 tertiary institutions that offer the majority of VTE programs in Nigeria. The instrument for data collection was developed by the researchers and was validated by five experts. The overall reliability index of the instrument is 0.81.

Findings

The study found that in order to use TEL tools, VTE teachers must learn effective instructional delivery and found the experiences of VTE teachers with TEL tools as well as the relationship between teachers' years of experience and experiences of VTE teachers about TEL tools. Also, the study found that access to TEL tools mediates the relationship between VTE teachers' utilization of TEL tools and their performance in utilization of TEL tools.

Originality/value

VTE teachers need to learn how to use TEL tools for effective online instructional delivery during and post-emergency situations.
Influence of perceived service quality on word-of-mouth: the mediating role of brand trust and student satisfaction
Authors: Tessema Dagnu Haile , Yesilada Figen , Aghaei Iman , Ahmed Japheth Nuhu
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The primary purpose of this research is to examine the influence of perceived service quality (PSQ) on word-of-mouth (WOM) directly and through the mediating role of brand trust (BTR) and student satisfaction (SAT) at private universities located in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

Design/methodology/approach

A structured questionnaire and convenience sampling were utilized to collect data from 350 students enrolled in selected private universities in the TRNC. Data analysis was conducted using SmartPLS 4.

Findings

This study found that PSQ has a significant influence on WOM. BTR and SAT have a direct and significant effect on WOM. We also found that BTR and SAT mediate the link between PSQ and WOM.

Practical implications

These findings can serve as a guide for university administration to enhance the quality of services offered to students, as well as to enhance existing policies and procedures.

Originality/value

This paper’s originality lies in the use of cognitive-affective behavioural (CAB) to support the relationship between student perceptions of service quality, brand trust, student satisfaction and WOM.