bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Topical Application of anNSAIDLateral to the Incision on Postoperative Pain Following Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty: A Double‐Blind Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Li Chao , Li Lei , Li Yifan , Liu Dehua , Han Kaifei , Zhu Ranlyu , Zhao Yao , Lu Qunshan , Li Chunde
Published: May 2024

Objective

How to minimize postoperative pain following knee replacement surgery has been a great challenge. This study was performed to evaluate the effect of applying a topical nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) lateral to the incision for postoperative pain following unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA).

Methods

The randomized controlled trial enrolled 100 patients from August 2023 to January 2024. One hundred patients who underwent UKA were randomized into two groups. The intervention group received a topical NSAID lateral to the incision postoperatively, and the control group received a placebo lateral to the incision postoperatively. The primary outcome measures were the amount of opioid consumption and the visual analogue scale (VAS) score (12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 h after operation) for pain. The secondary outcome measures were the American Knee Society Score (AKSS, preoperation and 1‐month follow‐up after operation), the time of first analgesic demand, side effects of opioids, operation time, postoperative stay, surgery‐related complications, and postoperative incision healing grade. Independent samplettest and paired samplettest were used to compare continuous data. Chi‐square test and Fisher's precision probability tests were used to analyze the categorical data.

Results

Ninety‐eight patients (intervention group, 48 patients; control group, 50 patients) were analyzed. Opioid consumption was significantly lower in the intervention group than in the control group during the first 12 h, 12 to 24 h, and 24 to 48 h postoperatively (p < 0.05). The VAS score for pain within 72 h postoperatively was significantly lower in the intervention group than in the control group (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the AKSS, operation time, postoperative stay, complications, or postoperative incision healing grade between the two groups. The time of first analgesic demand for patient‐controlled analgesia was significantly later in the intervention group than in the control group (p < 0.05). There were fewer side effects of opioids in the intervention group (8.3%) than in the control group (18.0%).

Conclusion

Postoperative application of topical NSAIDs lateral to the incision is an effective and safe method for pain management after UKA, helping to decrease the pain score and reduce opioid consumption postoperatively with no increase in side effects.
Bortezomib for antibody‐mediated rejection of kidney transplant in youth: Associations with donor‐specific antibody
Authors: Fulchiero Rosanna , Galea Lauren , Hewlett Jennifer , Savant Jonathan D. , Lopez Sonya , Amaral Sandra , Viteri Bernarda
Published: May 2024

Background

Antibody‐mediated rejection is one of the most significant risk factors for allograft dysfunction and failure in children and adolescents with kidney transplants, yet optimal treatment remains unidentified. To date, there are mixed findings regarding the use of Bortezomib, a plasma cell apoptosis inducer, as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of antibody‐mediated rejection.

Methods

In a retrospective single center study, we reviewed the efficacy and tolerability of bortezomib as adjunct therapy for treatment‐refractory antibody‐mediated rejection.

Results

Six patients with a median age of 14.6 years (range 6.9–20.1 years) received bortezomib at a mean of 71 months (range 15–83 months) post‐kidney transplant. Four patients experienced decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) from 4% to 42%. One patient started bortezomib while on hemodialysis and did not recover graft function, and another patient progressed to hemodialysis 6 months after receiving bortezomib. Although DSA did not completely resolve, there was a statistically significant decline in DSA MFI pre and 12‐months post‐BZ (p = .012, paired t‐test) for the subjects who were not on dialysis at the time of bortezomib. Chronic Allograft Damage Index (CADI) score of ≥3 was seen in all six subjects at their biopsy prior to therapy. No adverse effects were reported.

Conclusions

Bortezomib was well tolerated and resulted in improvements in MFI of DSA among four pediatric subjects without allograft failure, although no effects were observed on eGFR trajectory. Further studies are needed to clarify whether earlier intervention with bortezomib could prevent renal failure progression.
Amoralism in theHanfeizi
Authors: Escoffier Gabrièle
Published: May 2024

This article surveys three possible ways to assess morality in theHanfeizi. The first is the “traditional” outlook, according to which Han Fei disregards all moral considerations in politics. The second acknowledges the presence of moral questions in the text but maintains that it ultimately promotes amoralism as an essential feature of the Legalist state. A (less common) third way is to say that there is a moral core to Han Fei's political philosophy. I will defend the third way, which shifts the perception of theHanfeizifrom a mere manual of political manipulation to a comprehensive ideal vision for the world. This interpretation necessitates a recognition of how political morality can coherently exist alongside an apparent divide between private ethics and political action. This is something that those seeking more systematic forms of ethics in theHanfeizimight overlook.
The association between perceived social functioning and heart rate variability is mediated by subclinical depressive symptomatology and moderated by gender
Authors: Piejka Aleksandra , Thayer Julian F. , Okruszek Łukasz
Published: May 2024

Chronic loneliness and low perceived social support have been recognized as risk factors for both mental and cardiovascular disorders. It has been proposed that their link to psychophysiological problems may involve changes in parasympathetic activity. However, the exact underlying psychopathological mechanisms and the moderating effects of gender are still not thoroughly examined. Thus, the present study investigated associations between perceived social functioning and resting vagal tone in the context of potential cognitive and subclinical mediators and gender differences. Three hundred twenty‐five young adults (aged 18–35, 180 women) underwent an electrocardiogram measurement of 6‐minute resting heart rate variability (HRV). They also completed questionnaires assessing loneliness, perceived social support, social cognitive biases, depressive and social anxiety symptoms, and general mental health. In men, HRV was significantly and negatively associated with poorer perceived social functioning, depressive symptoms, and self‐reported social cognitive biases, while in women, there was a quadratic link between HRV and depressive symptoms and HRV and general mental health. Moderated mediation analysis revealed that depressive symptoms fully mediated the relationship between perceived social functioning and HRV in men. The results suggest that decreased resting vagal tone in lonely individuals is linked to depressive symptomatology rather than to specific social cognitive biases and that this association is significant only in men.
The impact of product portfolio specialty and activeness on firm survival: evidence from the nascent drone industry
Authors: Khurana Indu , Dutta Dev K.
Published: May 2024

We examine the impact of product portfolio strategy on the likelihood of firm survival within the nascent unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) or the drone industry. Using novel and representative global data on firms that operate within the domain of air platforms in the drone industry, our study captures a period of ferment in the industry as it went through significant change and began to acquire some level of stability. The results show that both portfolio specialty and activeness have a positive impact on firm survival. Specialist firms with narrow product usage or higher portfolio specialty are in an advantageous position compared to generalists with wide product usage or low portfolio specialty. They also have a higher likelihood of survival, overall. Similarly, a firm with a more active set of drones within its product portfolio also survives better. The results are consistent even after accounting for firm‐level controls and are robust to other model specifications. Our findings have important implications for firm strategy, positioning, and interaction with technology in nascent industries, especially relating to the development and deployment of new technologies and products.
Invertebrate responses to rewilding: a monitoring framework for practitioners
Authors: Cook Patrick , Law Alan , Pattison Zarah , WallisDeVries Michiel F. , Willby Nigel J.
Published: May 2024

Rewilding presents a unique opportunity to better understand the processes influencing ecological communities and how they function. Although empirical evidence on the effects of rewilding is growing rapidly, knowledge gain is unbalanced, particularly for invertebrates, despite this group representing a large proportion of biodiversity and being fundamental to key ecosystem processes. Here, we advocate for more targeted systematic monitoring and experimental research, providing a site‐based framework for practitioners to evaluate project effects on invertebrate biodiversity. This framework utilizes taxonomic indicators of change, representative of processes important to ecosystem functioning. Implementation of this framework and the associated opportunities and challenges for practitioners are discussed. Adopting this framework would broaden the taxonomic groups and ecosystem processes evaluated by rewilding projects, transform the sector from opinion‐based to evidence‐based, and help address some of the most pressing ecological and conservation questions of the twenty‐first century.
An application of LASSO and multiple imputation techniques to income dynamics with cross‐sectional data
Authors: Lucchetti Leonardo , Corral Paul , Ham Andrés , Garriga Santiago
Published: May 2024

This paper introduces, validates, and applies a Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator with multiple imputation by Predictive Mean Matching (LASSO‐PMM) method to estimate intra‐generational income dynamics from cross‐sectional data. We validate the method using 36 harmonized panel data sets in four Latin American countries and apply it to cross‐section data from 43 countries across the world. Results show that LASSO‐PMM predictions are statistically indistinguishable from actual household poverty rates, mobility indicators, and income or consumption changes. These findings suggest that estimating economic mobility using a LASSO‐PMM approach may accurately approximate actual income dynamics when panel data are unavailable.
GDP, GDI, and Trading Gains: An Alternative View
Authors: Balk Bert M.
Published: May 2024

This note argues that, from an economic‐statistical point of view, trading gains, as difference between real gross domestic income and real gross domestic product, may be considered as a statistical artifact; that is, trading gains vanish if a particular deflator for the trade balance is chosen.
Bayhead delta succession as a stratigraphic marker of sea‐level changes during the early to late Holocene – the Nakdong valley of south‐eastern Korea
Authors: Hong Seok‐Hwi , Ryang Woo Hun , Yoo Dong‐Geun , Simms Alexander R. , Kim Jin Cheul , Lee Gwang‐Soo
Published: May 2024

Bayhead deltas form at the interface between fluvial and estuarine systems. As such, they are sensitive to processes operating in both the fluvial catchment and the marine realm, including past relative sea‐level changes. The Nakdong valley is a small and confined incised valley containing a bayhead delta that provides a record of fluvial sediment input and accommodation changes. Based on a facies analysis that included 833 sediment textures and 118 optically stimulated luminescence and radiocarbon ages within five cores up to 70 m long, this study reconstructed the development of a fully filled bayhead delta in response to relative sea‐level changes through the early to late Holocene. Sixteen facies are defined and grouped into eight facies associations: alluvial plain; fluvial channel and floodplain; oxidized fluvial channel; tidal flat; tidal bar; central basin and bayhead prodelta; bayhead delta front; and bayhead delta plain. The sequence stratigraphy of the Nakdong valley fill can be divided into three systems tracts: a lowstand systems tract, a transgressive systems tract and a highstand systems tract. Overall sedimentary analyses suggest six depositional stages corresponding to variations between sediment inputs and sea‐level rise of the developing bayhead delta in the Nakdong valley. The depositional model tracks relative sea‐level rise in the Nakdong valley after 12 ka during the early to late Holocene. These analyses on the Nakdong bayhead delta succession illustrate the balance between sediment inputs and periods of accelerating and decelerating relative sea‐level rise during the Holocene. The architecture of the valley fill also records two abrupt disequilibrium events from 9 to 8 ka and 5 to 3 ka, likely resulting from rapid sea‐level rise during the deglacial outburst flooding of the early Holocene and decreased sediment inputs during regional climatic changes associated with the middle Holocene, respectively.
Using the inverse finite‐element method to harmonise classical modal analysis with fibre‐optic strain data for robust population‐based structural health monitoring
Authors: Delo Giulia , Roy Rinto , Worden Keith , Surace Cecilia
Published: May 2024

Vibration‐based approaches to structural health monitoring (SHM) gained increasing significance for assessing the behaviour of existing structures because of their non‐intrusive nature and high sensitivity to damage. However, data availability often limits the application of SHM approaches. The population‐based structural health monitoring (PBSHM) theory addresses this challenge, enhancing diagnostic inferences by sharing knowledge across a population of similar structures. In real‐life scenarios, sharing data from distinct structures requires dealing with results obtained with different experimental setups, multiple sensors, input choices and acquisition systems. Therefore, it is crucial to harmonise various features to achieve accurate and reliable results. The present study presents the results of a classic experimental modal analysis (EMA) using scanning laser Doppler vibrometer (SLDV) measurements and a strain‐based EMA conducted using high‐definition distributed fibre‐optic strain sensors. The experimental case study of a laboratory‐scale steel aircraft subjected to specific operating and damage conditions is introduced, allowing for a comprehensive discussion of the features extracted from the two EMA techniques, which can also be generalised to structures within different domains. This research highlights the advantages and limitations of fibre‐optic‐based EMA compared to classic methods, as fibre‐optic strain sensors offer a cost‐effective alternative to accelerometers or SLDV for dynamic testing. Furthermore, the feasibility of employing the inverse finite‐element method (iFEM) in the dynamic domain is investigated. This method can estimate the whole displacement field of a structure from a limited number of strain values, thus harmonising strain measurements with the SLDV measurements. By analysing the features extracted from different EMA techniques within the PBSHM framework, this study contributes to advancing the understanding and application of the PBSHM approach in diverse experimental scenarios, laying the foundation for further investigation of features and adequate methods for sharing damage‐state knowledge across a population of structures.
Soil fungal communities under slash‐and‐burn system in Mozambique: A metataxonomic approach
Authors: Serrani Dominique , Ferrocino Ilario , Garofalo Cristiana , Osimani Andrea , Corvaglia Maria Rita , Milanović Vesna , Aquilanti Lucia , Cardelli Valeria , Salvucci Andrea , Cocco Stefania , Borguete Alves Rafael Rogerio , Corti Giuseppe
Published: May 2024

This study provides a metataxonomic analysis of the fungal communities in soils under slash‐and‐burn agroforestry system and offers new insights into the relationships between fungal populations and soil physicochemical features such as pH, the particle size distribution, easily oxidizable organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, and the mineralogical composition. Soils from three locations in central Mozambique—Vanduzi, Sussundenga, and Macate—that are subjected to slash‐and‐burn were considered to assess the effects of the forest fallow length (temporal variation) and of the land use (charcoal kiln, crop field, and forest; meaning horizontal variation) on the fungal community. The fungi of the genetic horizons (vertical variation) were also considered. Most of the detected fungi were decomposers, antagonists of plant pathogens, and plant‐growth promoters; they were differently distributed in relation to the soil's physicochemical properties and the soil use. The variations in the fungi distribution among the locations and between the horizons were considerable, while there were few variations between the different land‐use types. The limited differences between land uses indicate the inability of a forest fallow period shorter than 50 years to improve soil fertility and induce changes in the fungal community. The pedological approach used to identify and sample soil horizons allowed us to clearly distinguish the fungal community of the A horizons, those richest in organics and nutrients, and that of the Bo horizons, which have poor fertility.
Soil erosion alters the composition of soil nitrogen and induces nitrogen immobilization along a sloping agricultural landscape
Authors: Shi Jia , Zhang Zhiyong , Wang Zi , Peng Yumei , Wang Xiang
Published: May 2024

Soil erosion transports and redistributes sediment across the landscape, altering soil organic carbon (SOC) and nitrogen (N) availability and stocks. However, the effect of erosion on soil N remains largely unclear. In this study, SOC, soil total N (TN), mineral N ( and ), dissolved organic N (DON) and total dissolved N (TDN) were evaluated in 100‐cm soil profiles in different sites (including the non‐erosion flat site, erosional site and depositional site) to examine the responses of the concentration and composition of soil N to different erosional intensity. Additionally, N mineralization and microbial biomass nitrogen (MBN) were determined to evaluate the bioavailability of soil N. Our results showed that erosion depleted TN in the erosional sites while enriching it in the depositional site throughout the soil profile. The erosion, rather than the deposition, altered the composition of dissolved N, with TDN (DON and mineral N) dominating deeper soil profiles (40–100 cm, accounting for 18%–50% of TN). The wide soil C:N ratio in the erosional site altered microbial metabolism to mine N to maintain their growth rather than mineralizing organic matter into soil bioavailable forms. This was supported by the net N mineralization (Nm), which exhibited a significant negative correlation with MBN and soil C:N ratio. The imbalanced loss of SOC and TN caused by the erosion induces soil N limitations. Collectively, our results suggested that erosion decreased TN concentrations and altered the composition of dissolved N, inducing N immobilization and decreasing soil bioavailable N.
Microgranular biochar improves soil fertility and mycorrhization in crop systems
Authors: Fišarová Lenka , Berchová Kateřina , Lukáč Martin , Beesley Luke , Vosátka Miroslav , Hausenblas Michal , Trakal Lukáš
Published: May 2024

Intensive agricultural practices have accelerated soil organic carbon mineralization, compromising soil health and function. This study evaluated the efficacy of microgranular biochar (MicroCHAR) and powdered biochar as soil additives enhancing soil function, and pea, maize and wheat growth and yield. We carried out a series of experiments with degraded drought‐prone soils in greenhouse and field conditions, combining biochar addition with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). The combination of amendments variously impacted soil nutrient status; availability of extractable potassium (K) increased in all cases, whilst that of calcium (Ca) was reduced when AMF inoculation was applied alone but not in combination with biochar. MicroCHAR positively affected root biomass and pea P content compared with the control, but biochar did not enhance N or K. Crop yield was not significantly increased by MicroCHAR amendment. MicroCHAR enhanced the mycorrhization rate of crop roots by 260%, an effect seen in the greenhouse and field conditions. This study suggests that credible benefits in some crops can be gained by the application of MicroCHAR to some soils. Observed effects may be soil and crop specific; future study of optimal nutrient and microorganism coatings on microgranular biochar opens exciting avenues for the improvement of crop yields in degraded agricultural soils.
Training framework for high‐stakes OSCE: Experience from volunteer standardized patients' bank
Authors: Feigerlova Eva
Published: May 2024

Background

Training of standardized patients (SPs) for national high‐stakes OSCE helps to ensure a reliable assessment of student performance in various clinical scenarios. However, workflow protocols to train SPs vary. Medical schools adopt specific measures to ensure standardization.

Approach

We present a development workflow of the SPs' training framework for high‐stakes OSCE using a volunteer SPs' bank. Our approach was guided by the social learning theory. Three educators and 17/20 (85%) members of our volunteer SPs' bank worked in a collaborative partnership on the construction of pedagogical content of the training framework comprising three 2‐hour sessions. Since SPs have to demonstrate acquired behaviors, intended learning outcomes used the words “apply”, “perform” and “participate.”

Evaluation

A principal part of the evaluation was the achievement of intended learning outcomes by the SPs during 3 formative OSCEs. Seventeen SPs, 356 fourth year medical students and 60 examiners participated. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected by post‐session questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Twelve examiners evaluated a mean of 29.7+/−0.14 SD patient‐student encounters. In total, 15/16 SPs (93.8%) considered the contact with students as easy and 4 SPs (31%) reported the experience as stressful. Two themes emerged from the free‐text comments: “Gaining experience as SP” and “Concerns for evaluated students.”

Implication

The proposed SPs' training framework for high‐stakes OSCE may be useful for other medical disciplines and health professions initiating SP‐based assessment programs. The strategy of development and evaluation are outlined to guide a successful application of the curriculum standards.
Suspected cerebral salt wasting syndrome secondary to traumatic brain injury in a dog
Authors: Chromiak Amanda E. , Finstad Joanna , Cooper Edward
Published: May 2024

Objective

To describe a dog with suspected cerebral salt wasting syndrome (CSWS) secondary to traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Case Summary

A 2‐month‐old intact male Chihuahua‐American Pitbull Terrier mix weighing 1.94 kg presented to a veterinary teaching emergency room after suffering bite wound‐penetrating trauma to the head. Treatment was initiated with hyperosmotic agents, fluid resuscitation, and analgesia. The dog's neurologic dysfunction warranted hospitalization and continuous monitoring. Within 24 hours, the dog developed hyponatremia (133 mmol/L compared to 143 mmol/L on presentation [reference interval 142–149 mmol/L]). As the dog had concurrent tachycardia, increase in urine sodium concentration, polyuria, and weight loss, a diagnosis of cerebral salt wasting was suspected. A 2% hypertonic saline constant rate infusion was administered for volume replacement, and the patient showed improvement in clinical signs and blood sodium concentration. The dog was discharged on Day 5. Recheck examination showed significant neurologic improvement with sodium just below the low end of the reference range (141 mmol/L [reference interval 142–149 mmol/L]).

New or Unique Information Provided

This is the first description of suspected CSWS in veterinary medicine. Hyponatremia is a common finding in critically ill neurologic people, including those with TBI, and is typically associated with either syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone or CSWS. As treatment recommendations for syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone and CSWS are diametrically opposed, identifying the presence of hyponatremia and distinguishing between these 2 clinical entities is critical for improving patient care for those with TBI. This case highlights the characteristics and clinical progression regarding the diagnosis and management of suspected CSWS.
Geographic range and minimum infection rate of Borrelia burgdorferi, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Babesia microti, and Borrelia miyamotoi in Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae) ticks in Manitoba, Canada from 1995 to 2017
Authors: Foo Cheryl Pei Zhen , Sutcliffe Catherine Gayle , Dibernardo Antonia , Lindsay Leslie Robbin
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The expanding geographical range of blacklegged ticks (BLTs), Ixodes scapularis, and its ability to transmit Borrelia burgdorferi, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Babesia microti, and Borrelia miyamotoi poses an emerging public health risk. Our study determined the geographic distribution and the minimum infection rate (MIR) of B. burgdorferi‐, A. phagocytophilum‐, Ba. microti‐, and B. miyamotoi‐infected BLTs in Manitoba submitted to the Public Health Agency of Canada's passive tick surveillance programme from 1995 to 2017.

Methods

Regression models were used to test the association of the MIR by year for each pathogen. Ticks were tested using PCR for B. burgdorferi since 1995, A. phagocytophilum since 2006, and Ba. microti and B. miyamotoi since 2013. The global positioning system coordinates of infected and uninfected ticks submitted during the surveillance period were plotted on a map of Manitoba using ArcGIS Pro version 3.1.2 to detect changes in the geographic distribution of ticks over time.

Results

The overall MIR for B. burgdorferi was 139.7 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 129.0–150.5) per 1000 BLTs; however, it varied over time. After remaining stable from 1995 to 2005, the MIR increased by 12.1 per 1000 BLTs per year from 2005 to 2017 (95% CI: 7.0%–17.2%, p‐value <0.01). The geographic distribution of B. burgdorferi‐infected BLTs was centred around Winnipeg, Manitoba, and spread outward from this locality. The MIRs of A. phagocytophilum, Ba. microti, and B. miyamotoi were 44.8 per 1000 BLTs (95% CI: 38.1–51.6), 10.8 (95% CI: 6.6–15.0), and 5.2 (95% CI: 2.3–8.1) per 1000 BLTs, respectively, and showed no significant change over time.

Conclusion

Passive surveillance revealed the presence of A. phagocytophilum‐, Ba. microti‐, and B. miyamotoi‐infected BLTs in southern Manitoba and revealed an increased risk of exposure to B. burgdorferi‐infected BLTs due to the increasing geographic range and MIR.
Moderate deviations for rough differential equations
Authors: Inahama Yuzuru , Xu Yong , Yang Xiaoyu
Published: May 2024

Small noise problems are quite important for all types of stochastic differential equations. In this paper, we focus on rough differential equations driven by scaled fractional Brownian rough path with Hurst parameter . We prove a moderate deviation principle for this equation as the scale parameter tends to zero.
On a problem of Erdős and Graham about consecutive sums in strictly increasing sequences
Authors: Beker Adrian
Published: May 2024

We show the existence of a constant such that, for all positive integers , there exist integers such that there are at least distinct integers of the form with . This answers a question of Erdős and Graham. We also prove a non‐trivial upper bound on the maximum number of distinct integers of this form and address several open problems.
Branching random walk with non‐local competition
Authors: Maillard Pascal , Penington Sarah
Published: May 2024

We study the Bolker–Pacala–Dieckmann–Law (BPDL) model of population dynamics in the regime of large population density. The BPDL model is a particle system in which particles reproduce, move randomly in space and compete with each other locally. We rigorously prove global survival as well as a shape theorem describing the asymptotic spread of the population, when the population density is sufficiently large. In contrast to most previous studies, we allow the competition kernel to have an arbitrary, even infinite range, whence the term non‐local competition. This makes the particle system non‐monotone and of infinite‐range dependence, meaning that the usual comparison arguments break down and have to be replaced by a more hands‐on approach. Some ideas in the proof are inspired by works on the non‐local Fisher‐KPP equation, but the stochasticity of the model creates new difficulties.
Hajnal–Máté graphs, Cohen reals, and disjoint‐type guessing
Authors: Lambie‐Hanson Chris , Uhrik Dávid
Published: May 2024

A Hajnal–Máté graph is an uncountably chromatic graph on satisfying a certain natural sparseness condition. We investigate Hajnal–Máté graphs and generalizations thereof, focusing on the existence of Hajnal–Máté graphs in models resulting from adding a single Cohen real. In particular, answering a question of Dániel Soukup, we show that such models necessarily contain triangle‐free Hajnal–Máté graphs. In the process, we isolate a weakening of club guessing called disjoint‐type guessing that we feel is of interest in its own right. We show that disjoint‐type guessing is independent of and, if disjoint‐type guessing holds in the ground model, then the forcing extension by a single Cohen real contains Hajnal–Máté graphs such that the chromatic numbers of finite subgraphs of grow arbitrarily slowly.
2 n2-inequality for cA1 points and applications to birational rigidity
Authors: Krylov Igor , Okada Takuzo , Paemurru Erik , Park Jihun
Published: May 2024

The $4 n^2$-inequality for smooth points plays an important role in the proofs of birational (super)rigidity. The main aim of this paper is to generalize such an inequality to terminal singular points of type $cA_1$, and obtain a $2 n^2$-inequality for $cA_1$ points. As applications, we prove birational (super)rigidity of sextic double solids, many other prime Fano 3-fold weighted complete intersections, and del Pezzo fibrations of degree $1$ over $\mathbb {P}^1$ satisfying the $K^2$-condition, all of which have at most terminal $cA_1$ singularities and terminal quotient singularities. These give first examples of birationally (super)rigid Fano 3-folds and del Pezzo fibrations admitting a $cA_1$ point which is not an ordinary double point.
Do Institutions Trump Everything Else?: The Essay of Rodrik et al. (2004) Revisited
Authors: Ghaddab Kamel
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we aim to estimate the independent effect of trade openness on the long-term growth performance of nations. The empirical methodology is based on two separate steps. In the first step, we will introduce an alternative methodology to estimate a more precise instrument for trade openness, using an extended hierarchical-longitudinal method, thereby enhancing the framework developed by Frankel and Romer [1999]. In the second step, we will estimate the growth effect of trade openness within an automatic selection framework for the income equation of nations, while accounting for the effects of institutions and geography.
Experimental Research Into Aeroelastic Phenomena in Turbine Rotor Blades Inside ARIAS EU Project
Authors: Gallardo Juan Manuel , Bermejo Oscar , Hernández Julen , García Gadea , Gallego Jon , Knappett Daniel , Kharyton Vsevolod , Wurl Mike , Corral Roque
Published: May 2024

This paper describes an aeroelastic experimental campaign on a low-pressure turbine-bladed rotor in a rotating wind tunnel that took place as a part of the Advanced Research Into Aeromechanical Solutions (ARIAS) EU project. The campaign can be considered a continuation of the free-flutter test that was performed as part of the FUTURE EU project, where the saturation of asynchronous vibrations due to dry friction was characterized. This new campaign studied new aspects of the physics behind saturated flutter, including the non-linear interaction between synchronous excitation and asynchronous vibration, the effectiveness of different mistuning patterns to suppress flutter, and the viability of under-platform dampers as a technology to control the amplitude of asynchronous vibrations. Furthermore, the campaign explored various operation conditions for the turbine rotor, including near-stall. In general, there was a good agreement between the theoretical predictions regarding all these different aspects of turbine flutter and the test results.
A Survey of Function Failure Identification and Propagation Analysis Methods for System Design
Authors: Jensen David , Van Bossuyt Douglas L. , Bello Oladapo , O’Halloran Bryan M. , Papakonstantinou Nikolaos
Published: May 2024

In the context of model-based product and system design, the capability to assess the impact of potential component faults, undesired interactions, and fault propagation is important for design decision-making. Addressing these potential negative outcomes should occur as early in the design process as possible to enable designers to make impactful changes to the design. To this end, a set of tools and methods have been developed over the last 20 years that leverage a function-based approach assessing the potential faults and fault propagation and develop system health management strategies. These tools and methods must overcome challenges of high abstraction and satisfaction of safety or risk requirements with limited design specifications. This paper provides a detailed survey of a particular function-based analysis tool as a lens to understanding the challenges for other tools in this domain. Specifically, the development and evolution of the function failure identification and propagation framework (FFIP) is used as a lens to survey the challenges of this field. The objective of this paper is to explore the specific challenges and advancements of the FFIP framework and related tools that address similar modeling and analysis challenges. We provide an overall categorization and summary of the research efforts to date and identify specific known limitations and unaddressed challenges in the area of design-stage system risk and safety analysis.
Comparison Analysis of Bio-Inspired Tendon-Driven Manipulators Based on Their Tension-Feasible Workspace
Authors: Testard Nicolas J. S. , Chevallereau Christine , Wenger Philippe
Published: May 2024

Bio-inspiration can be used in the development of novel dextrous and energy-efficient manipulators. This paper focuses on planar manipulators inspired by the bird neck, built upon stacking a series of tensegrity X-joints. The manipulators are actuated with four tendons and have different numbers of modules, with or without offsets. The objective of this work is to study the influence of offsets, number of modules, geometry of the joints, configuration at rest of the manipulators, and actuation scheme on the size of the tension-feasible workspace (TFW). The spring constants of the X-joints are determined so that the configuration at rest features a desired end-effector (EE) pose with minimal stiffness to ensure stability. Our study demonstrates that increasing the number of modules results in a larger TFW, although the number of active tendons is fixed. We find that the TFW can be maximized with appropriate modification of the joint geometry. Additionally, we explore the influence of bio-inspired approaches on the manipulator configuration at rest and actuation scheme in relation to the TFW. In addition, we conduct an analysis of the EE pose stiffness, revealing that offsets decrease this stiffness, while an optimal number of modules exists to achieve maximum stiffness. We observed that increasing the width of the manipulator generally enhances stiffness, while the configuration at rest and the actuation have little effects. Furthermore, experiments were conducted to validate the methodologies.
13
C metabolite tracing reveals glutamine and acetate as critical in vivo fuels for CD8 T cells
Authors: Ma Eric H. , Dahabieh Michael S. , DeCamp Lisa M. , Kaymak Irem , Kitchen-Goosen Susan M. , Oswald Brandon M. , Longo Joseph , Roy Dominic G. , Verway Mark J. , Johnson Radia M. , Samborska Bozena , Duimstra Lauren R. , Scullion Catherine A. , Steadman Mya , Vos Matthew , Roddy Thomas P. , Krawczyk Connie M. , Williams Kelsey S. , Sheldon Ryan D. , Jones Russell G.
Published: May 2024

Infusion of
13
C-labeled metabolites provides a gold standard for understanding the metabolic processes used by T cells during immune responses in vivo. Through infusion of
13
C-labeled metabolites (glucose, glutamine, and acetate) in
Listeria monocytogenes
–infected mice, we demonstrate that CD8 T effector (Teff) cells use metabolites for specific pathways during specific phases of activation. Highly proliferative early Teff cells in vivo shunt glucose primarily toward nucleotide synthesis and leverage glutamine anaplerosis in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle to support adenosine triphosphate and de novo pyrimidine synthesis. In addition, early Teff cells rely on glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase 1 (Got1)—which regulates de novo aspartate synthesis—for effector cell expansion in vivo. CD8 Teff cells change fuel preference over the course of infection, switching from glutamine- to acetate-dependent TCA cycle metabolism late in infection. This study provides insights into the dynamics of Teff metabolism, illuminating distinct pathways of fuel consumption associated with CD8 Teff cell function in vivo.
Rejuvenation of peripheral immune cells attenuates Alzheimer’s disease-like pathologies and behavioral deficits in a mouse model
Authors: Sun Pu-Yang , Liu Jie , Hu Jian-Ni , Tu Yun-Feng , Jiang Qiu , Jia Yu-Juan , Sun Hao-Lun , Chen Si-Han , Xin Jia-Yan , Yu Zhong-Yuan , Liu Zhi-Hao , Tan Cheng-Rong , Zeng Gui-Hua , Shi An-Yu , Liu Yu-Hui , Bu Xian-Le , Wang Yan-Jiang , Wang Jun
Published: May 2024

Immunosenescence contributes to systematic aging and plays a role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the potential of immune rejuvenation as a therapeutic strategy for AD. To achieve this, the immune systems of aged
APP/PS1
mice were rejuvenated through young bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that young BMT restored the expression of aging- and AD-related genes in multiple cell types within blood immune cells. The level of circulating senescence-associated secretory phenotype proteins was decreased following young BMT. Notably, young BMT resulted in a significant reduction in cerebral Aβ plaque burden, neuronal degeneration, neuroinflammation, and improvement of behavioral deficits in aged
APP/PS1
mice. The ameliorated cerebral amyloidosis was associated with an enhanced Aβ clearance of peripheral monocytes. In conclusion, our study provides evidence that immune system rejuvenation represents a promising therapeutic approach for AD.
Payload-delivering engineered γδ T cells display enhanced cytotoxicity, persistence, and efficacy in preclinical models of osteosarcoma
Authors: Fowler Daniel , Barisa Marta , Southern Alba , Nattress Callum , Hawkins Elizabeth , Vassalou Eleni , Kanouta Angeliki , Counsell John , Rota Enrique , Vlckova Petra , Draper Benjamin , De Mooij Tessa , Farkas Andrea , Brezovjakova Helena , Baker Alfie T. , Scotlandi Katia , Manara Maria C. , Tape Chris , Chester Kerry , Anderson John , Fisher Jonathan
Published: May 2024

T cell–based cancer immunotherapy has typically relied on membrane-bound cytotoxicity enhancers such as chimeric antigen receptors expressed in autologous αβ T cells. These approaches are limited by tonic signaling of synthetic constructs and costs associated with manufacturing. γδ T cells are an emerging alternative for cellular therapy, having innate antitumor activity, potent antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, and minimal alloreactivity. We present an immunotherapeutic platform technology built around the innate properties of the Vγ9Vδ2 T cell, harnessing specific characteristics of this cell type and offering an allocompatible cellular therapy that recruits bystander immunity. We engineered γδ T cells to secrete synthetic tumor-targeting opsonins in the form of an scFv-Fc fusion protein and a mitogenic IL-15Rα–IL-15 fusion protein (stIL15). Using GD2 as a model antigen, we show that GD2-specific opsonin-secreting Vγ9Vδ2 T cells (stIL15-OPS-γδ T cells) have enhanced cytotoxicity and promote bystander activity of other lymphoid and myeloid cells. Secretion of stIL-15 abrogated the need for exogenous cytokine supplementation and further mediated activation of bystander natural killer cells. Compared with unmodified γδ T cells, stIL15-OPS-γδ T cells exhibited superior in vivo control of subcutaneous tumors and persistence in the blood. Moreover, stIL15-OPS-γδ T cells were efficacious against patient-derived osteosarcomas in animal models and in vitro, where efficacy could be boosted with the addition of zoledronic acid. Together, the data identify stIL15-OPS-γδ T cells as a candidate allogeneic cell therapy platform combining direct cytolysis with bystander activation to promote tumor control.
Functional ultrasound imaging of human brain activity through an acoustically transparent cranial window
Authors: Rabut Claire , Norman Sumner L. , Griggs Whitney S. , Russin Jonathan J. , Jann Kay , Christopoulos Vasileios , Liu Charles , Andersen Richard A. , Shapiro Mikhail G.
Published: May 2024

Visualization of human brain activity is crucial for understanding normal and aberrant brain function. Currently available neural activity recording methods are highly invasive, have low sensitivity, and cannot be conducted outside of an operating room. Functional ultrasound imaging (fUSI) is an emerging technique that offers sensitive, large-scale, high-resolution neural imaging; however, fUSI cannot be performed through the adult human skull. Here, we used a polymeric skull replacement material to create an acoustic window compatible with fUSI to monitor adult human brain activity in a single individual. Using an in vitro cerebrovascular phantom to mimic brain vasculature and an in vivo rodent cranial defect model, first, we evaluated the fUSI signal intensity and signal-to-noise ratio through polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) cranial implants of different thicknesses or a titanium mesh implant. We found that rat brain neural activity could be recorded with high sensitivity through a PMMA implant using a dedicated fUSI pulse sequence. We then designed a custom ultrasound-transparent cranial window implant for an adult patient undergoing reconstructive skull surgery after traumatic brain injury. We showed that fUSI could record brain activity in an awake human outside of the operating room. In a video game “connect the dots” task, we demonstrated mapping and decoding of task-modulated cortical activity in this individual. In a guitar-strumming task, we mapped additional task-specific cortical responses. Our proof-of-principle study shows that fUSI can be used as a high-resolution (200 μm) functional imaging modality for measuring adult human brain activity through an acoustically transparent cranial window.
Primary exposure to Zika virus is linked with increased risk of symptomatic dengue virus infection with serotypes 2, 3, and 4, but not 1
Authors: Zambrana José Victor , Hasund Chloe M. , Aogo Rosemary A. , Bos Sandra , Arguello Sonia , Gonzalez Karla , Collado Damaris , Miranda Tatiana , Kuan Guillermina , Gordon Aubree , Balmaseda Angel , Katzelnick Leah C. , Harris Eva
Published: May 2024

Infection with any of the four dengue virus serotypes (DENV1–4) can protect against or enhance subsequent dengue depending on preexisting antibodies and infecting serotype. Additionally, primary infection with the related flavivirus Zika virus (ZIKV) is associated with increased risk of DENV2 disease. Here, we measured how prior DENV and ZIKV immunity influenced risk of disease caused by DENV1–4 in a pediatric Nicaraguan cohort. Of 3412 participants in 2022, 10.6% experienced dengue cases caused by DENV1 (
n
= 139), DENV4 (
n
= 133), DENV3 (
n
= 54), DENV2 (
n
= 9), or an undetermined serotype (
n
= 39). Longitudinal clinical and serological data were used to define infection histories, and generalized linear and additive models adjusted for age, sex, time since last infection, and year, and repeat measurements were used to predict disease risk. Compared with flavivirus-naïve participants, primary ZIKV infection was associated with increased risk of disease caused by DENV4 (relative risk = 2.62, 95% confidence interval: 1.48 to 4.63) and DENV3 (2.90, 1.34 to 6.27), but not DENV1 infection. Primary DENV infection or DENV followed by ZIKV infection was also associated with increased risk of DENV4 disease. We reanalyzed 19 years of cohort data and demonstrated that prior flavivirus immunity and antibody titer had distinct associations with disease risk depending on incoming serotype. We thus find that prior ZIKV infection, like prior DENV infection, is associated with increased risk of disease with certain DENV serotypes. Cross-reactivity among flaviviruses should be considered when assessing vaccine safety and efficacy.
Predicting anti-trypanosome effect of carbazole-derived compounds by powerful SVM with novel kernel function and comprehensive learning PSO
Authors: Dong Wenzhe , Zhang Peijian
Published: May 2024

In order to predict the anti-trypanosome effect of carbazole-derived compounds by quantitative structure–activity relationship, five models were established by the linear method, random forest, radial basis kernel function support vector machine, linear combination mix-kernel function support vector machine, and nonlinear combination mix-kernel function support vector machine (NLMIX-SVM). The heuristic method and optimized CatBoost were used to select two different key descriptor sets for building linear and nonlinear models, respectively. Hyperparameters in all nonlinear models were optimized by comprehensive learning particle swarm optimization with low complexity and fast convergence. Furthermore, the models’ robustness and reliability underwent rigorous assessment using fivefold and leave-one-out cross-validation,
y
-randomization, and statistics including concordance correlation coefficient (CCC),

Q

F
1

2

,

Q

F
2

2

, and

Q

F
3

2

. Among all the models, the NLMIX-SVM model, which was established by support vector regression using a nonlinear combination of radial basis kernel function, sigmoid kernel function, and linear kernel function as a new kernel function, demonstrated excellent learning and generalization abilities as well as robustness:

R

2

= 0.9581, mean square error (MSE) = 0.0199 for the training set and

R

2

= 0.9528, MSE = 0.0174 for the test set.

Q

L
O
O

2

,

Q

5
−
f
o
l
d

2

, CCC,

Q

F
1

2

,

Q

F
2

2

, and

Q

F
3

2

are 0.9539, 0.8908, 0.9752, 0.9529, 0.9528, and 0.9633, respectively. The NLMIX-SVM method proved to be a promising way in quantitative structure–activity relationship research. In addition, molecular docking experiments were conducted to analyze the properties of new derivatives, and a new potential candidate drug molecule was ultimately found. In summary, this study will provide help for the design and screening of novel anti-trypanosome drugs.