bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An elitist whale optimization algorithm with the nonlinear parameter: Algorithm and application
Authors: Zhang Yajing , Zhang Guoxu
Published: February 2024

To address the problem that the whale optimization algorithm tends to fall into the local optimum and fails to maintain a balance between exploration and exploitation, an elitist whale optimization algorithm with the nonlinear parameter (EWOANP) is proposed in this paper. An elitist strategy based on the random Cauchy mutation is used in the shrinking encircling mechanism to increase the chance of escaping the local optimum. Cleverly, the strategy is to generate mutation solutions based on the random Cauchy mutation, after which the better population is selected to proceed to the next iteration. Then, a nonlinear parameter is used in the logarithmic spiral mechanism to balance exploration and exploitation. Various numerical optimization experiments are performed based on the IEEE CEC2020 benchmark suite and compared with eleven other algorithms. The results show that EWOANP outperforms most competitors in numerical optimization. Finally, the backpropagation neural network is optimized by EWOANP to build a prediction model for the sulfur content in the molten iron. The experimental results based on production data indicate that the proposed prediction model has a relatively small fluctuation in errors. Compared to the other seven competitors, the proposed model has a better prediction performance with and =0.916619.
Effect of Alumina and Bio‐Based Calcium Oxide Nanoadditives on Reduction of Emissions and Performance Improvement in a Common Rail Direct Injection Diesel Engine Fueled with B20 Blend of Waste Cooking Oil Biodiesel
Authors: Sudarsanam Mark , Jayaprabakar Jayaraman
Published: February 2024

This experimental study investigates the performance, combustion, and emission characteristics of a common rail direct injection diesel engine running on used cooking biodiesel prepared through transesterification. The nanoparticles calcium oxide (CaO) and alumina (Al2O3) are mixed with the B20 blend using an ultrasonicator to create a homogeneous mixture. The following five fuel series are used in the study: a B20 blend with three different nanoparticle ppms are blended to form Al2O3CaO 90 ppm, Al2O3 + CaO 60 ppm, and Al2O3 + CaO 30 ppm. The enhanced surface area to volume ratio of nanoparticles enhances the degree of mixing and chemical reactivity during combustion. Also, the characteristics of diesel engines result in reduced specific fuel consumption. The test fuel B20 + 90 ppm (90 ppm nanoparticles dispersion) results 9% and 11% increase in brake thermal efficiency compared to diesel and B20, respectively. The presence of nanoparticles in biodiesel has initiated the combustion slightly earlier due to its improved ignition qualities that permit catalytic combustion and a shorter ignition delay. In comparison to diesel and B20, the Al2O3CaO90 ppm fuel blend lowers NOx emissions by 18% and 21%, carbon monoxide emissions by 40% and 43%, hydrocarbon emissions by 35% and 40%, and smoke emissions by 24% and 29%, respectively.
Tunable Selectivity of Photothermal CO2 Reduction over Composition‐Mediated Ni–Mo Alloy Catalysts
Authors: Zhang Xueli , Hu Shan , Zhang Fangyuan , Xing Shuchen , Hu Huilin , Ye Jinhua , Wang Defa
Published: February 2024

As a promising technology to mitigate global carbon emissions, photothermal catalytic CO2 reduction remains a great challenge in increasing the conversion efficiency and regulating the product selectivity. Herein, a series of phase‐separated Ni–Mo alloy catalysts for efficient photothermal CO2 reduction with tunable CO selectivity is reported. With the increase of Mo content, the evolution rate and selectivity of CO increases. The optimal catalyst Ni1Mo1 achieves 32.1% CO2 conversion with 98.0% of CO selectivity and 71.1 mmol gcat−1 h−1 of CO evolution rate under a 300 W xenon lamp irradiation. Further increasing the Mo content reduces the CO evolution rate while maintaining the high CO selectivity. In the mechanistic study, it is revealed that the Ni–Mo alloy with an appropriate Ni/Mo ratio (e.g., Ni1Mo1) possesses a modified electronic structure with more negative d‐band center, which increases the light absorption, reduces the H2 dissociation, and favors the CO desorption, thereby leading to efficient and selective photothermal reduction of CO2 to CO. In this work, a viable strategy to design nickel‐based catalysts is provided for efficient and selective photothermal CO2 reduction via composition‐mediated modification of electronic structure.
Analysis of an earth‐to‐air heat exchanger for enhanced residential thermal comfort
Authors: Dewangan Chandraprakash , Shukla Anuj Kumar , Salhotra Rahul , Dewan Anupam
Published: February 2024

It is well known that a massive demand for thermal comfort has resulted in a sharp rise in energy use for residential space heating and cooling. This article presents numerical simulations of a room coupled with an earth‐to‐air heat exchanger system operating at the climatic condition of 21.2497° N, 81.6050° E for both summer and winter seasons. The present study involves an estimate of monthly variations in soil temperature at different depths and a suitable geometrical arrangement of pipe is proposed. The thermal performance of the earth‐to‐air heat exchanger system in terms of the outlet air temperature and effectiveness has been calculated. It is shown that with an effectiveness of 0.77 in summer and 0.78 in winter, the present EAHE system reduces the ambient air temperature from 38 to 28.2°C in the summer and it rises from 13 to 22.9°C in winter, respectively. Finally, an improvement in the thermal comfort condition of the room exposed to the solar radiation has been examined at different time intervals and different heights of the room. During the summer the room temperature dropped by 4.2°C while in winter it rose by 5.2°C. Furthermore, the environmental effects of system have been evaluated, showing energy savings of 3.90 kWh/day during summer and 4.83 kWh/day during winter leading to a decrease in CO2 emissions of 6.13 kg/day in summer and 7.59 kg/day in winter.
Mining stress formation and distribution: Predictive model based on overburden key strata structure
Authors: Han Hongkai , Hu Zhengquan , Liu Yanwei , Zuo Weiqin , Wang Xiaozhen , Shi Can , He Yanyan , Qi Yuchun
Published: February 2024

In coal mines, the effective extraction of relief gas and the prevention of dynamic disasters depend on accurate predictions of the spatial distribution of mining stress in the overlying rock. However, at present, the prediction of stress relief and concentration zones based on operational experience or empirical modeling differs significantly from actual measurements in the field. The fundamental problem is the difficulty in modeling the transfer mechanism of the mining overburden load under the influence of key strata. In this study, a mechanical model of the spatial distribution of the mining stress field based on the structure of overburden key strata was established. The model demonstrates that the key strata are the main bearing bodies of the overlying rock, both before and after the fracture, and the overburden rock load can be transferred to the coal and rock mass around the stope through the key strata in the fracture and bending subsidence zones, thus forming a mining stress field. Equations for calculating the plane distributions of mining stress under the key strata at different horizons and abutment pressures on the stope were established, and a spatial distribution prediction method for the mining stress field based on the overburden key strata structure was proposed. The study area was the Gaojiapu Coal Mine, where it was found that the key stratum of the 400.45 m thick Luohe Formation sandstone bore most of the overlying rock load and transferred the load to the coal and rock mass around the stope. This load distribution is the root cause of a high concentration and wide influence range of mining stresses, leading to serious deformation of the main roadway and frequent dynamic disasters. The mining stress concentration was maximized at a mining length of 1458 m × 1458 m.
Biogeomorphological niche of a landform: Machine learning approaches reveal controls on the geographical distribution of Nitraria tangutorum nebkhas
Authors: Zhang Haochen , Li Shihan , Mason Joseph A. , Yizhaq Hezi , Gui Dongwei , Xu Zhiwei
Published: February 2024

Nebkhas are distinctive biogeomorphological landforms prevalent in global drylands and coastal environments. They play a crucial role in supporting local biodiversity and preventing land desertification and often serve as an indicator of local environmental change. Despite their significance, the environmental factors that affect their geographical distribution and how they respond to climate change have not been fully explored. This study represents a novel application of machine learning models to quantifying the biogeomorphological niche of Nitraria nebkhas in northern China and simulating their geographical distribution under future climate change conditions. Findings underscore that climatic variables influence the growth of formative shrub species on nebkhas, whereas climate, soil and geomorphological conditions, along with their spatial configuration, determine the probability of nebkha occurrence. Predictions under medium and high greenhouse gas emission scenarios indicate a northward shift in the potential distribution of nebkhas in northern China by the end of the century, accompanied by a decrease in the south due to rising temperatures. Given the potential impact of nebkha field degradation on biodiversity and soil hydrological conditions, adaptive land use strategies should be designed to protect nebkhas and mitigate the impact of climate change. Our study not only provides valuable insights for informing policy‐making and conservation initiatives but also serves as an example for quantifying the niche of biogeomorphological landforms and simulating their dynamics by integrating machine learning approaches into empirical geomorphological studies.
Practical Considerations in Item Calibration With Small Samples Under Multistage Test Design: A Case Study
Authors: Guo Hongwen , Johnson Matthew S. , McCaffrey Daniel F. , Gu Lixong
Published: February 2024

The multistage testing (MST) design has been gaining attention and popularity in educational assessments. For testing programs that have small test‐taker samples, it is challenging to calibrate new items to replenish the item pool. In the current research, we used the item pools from an operational MST program to illustrate how research studies can be built upon literature and program‐specific data to help to fill the gaps between research and practice and to make sound psychometric decisions to address the small‐sample issues. The studies included choice of item calibration methods, data collection designs to increase sample sizes, and item response theory models in producing the score conversion tables. Our results showed that, with small samples, the fixed parameter calibration (FIPC) method performed consistently the best for calibrating new items, compared to the traditional separate‐calibration with scaling method and a new approach of a calibration method based on the minimum discriminant information adjustment. In addition, the concurrent FIPC calibration with data from multiple administrations also improved parameter estimation of new items. However, because of the program‐specific settings, a simpler model may not improve current practice when the sample size was small and when the initial item pools were well‐calibrated using a two‐parameter logistic model with a large field trial data.
Recurring food source‐based Listeria outbreaks in the United States: An unsolved puzzle of concern?
Authors: Mohapatra Ranjan K. , Mishra Snehasish , Tuglo Lawrence Sena , Sarangi Ashish K. , Kandi Venkataramana , AL Ibrahim Amani Ahmed , Alsaif Hussain A. , Rabaan Ali A. , Zahan Md. Kudrat‐E
Published: February 2024

Recurring Listeria outbreaks in the United States is a growing public healthcare concern. Although no associated reported death, 17 were hospitalized out of the 18 reported illnesses in the recent outbreak in 15 US states. The United States has experienced about 30 Listeria outbreaks in the last decade with 524 Listeriosis cases and 80 deaths. The identified origin were ice cream, leafy greens, mushroom, meat slice, dairy products like cheese, packaged salads, cooked chicken, hard‐boiled egg, pork product, frozen vegetable, raw milk, packaged caramel apple, bean sprout and soya products. Although rare, Listeria may lead to serious illness (invasive listeriosis) or death. Listeriosis is critically harmful and medically complicated, especially in the pregnant, the old above 65 years and in the immunocompromised. It could cause premature birth, miscarriage or even neonatal death. Hospitalization is often necessary in the geriatric, being fatal at times. Among Listeria sp., Listeria monocytogenes is often human infection‐associated. It is a gram‐positive, non‐sporulating, motile bacillus opportunistic pathogen. Food‐borne listeriosis is often associated with frozen foods due to its ability to thrive at low temperatures. Hypervirulent strains of L. monocytogenes with an ability to infect the respiratory system (the lungs) was recently reported in the coronavirus disease‐19 patients during the pandemic. L. monocytogenes seemed to have developed antimicrobial resistance to ciprofloxacin and meropenem, possibly acquired through the food chain. An early onset of listeriosis in the newborn is evident in the first 7 days postparturition. As the bacteria colonize the genitourinary tract, majority of such cases result from teratogenic transfer during vaginal delivery. Premature newborns, neonates born outside healthcare facilities and low‐birth‐weight babies were increasingly predisposed to an early onset of listeriosis. Listeria outbreaks were earlier reported in South Africa, Australia and Europe, with an unclear origin of the outbreaks. Social media updates about such outbreaks, the most likely food source, and measures to self‐protect are suggested as preventive measures. The article deals on various such aspects related to listeriosis primarily originating from food, to ensure better public healthcare and human wellness.
Physical controls and regional pattern similarities of precipitation and flow duration curves using the three‐parameter gamma distribution
Authors: Zhou Yu , Zhang Yu‐Jia
Published: February 2024

The flow duration curve (FDC) is the cumulative distribution function, which represents the relationship between the frequency and magnitude of streamflow, and the precipitation duration curves (PDC) follows the same principle. Nowadays, the correlation between the shape of PDC and FDCs, their respective physical control factors including human activities, and their fitting conditions in unmeasured catchments across China have not been fully understood. In this paper, daily precipitation and streamflow data with 30 years records from 224 hydrological stations in the middle and lower Yangtze River basin were chosen to fit PDC and FDCs through gamma distribution. Framework was proposed for modelling FDCs to analyse the relationship, similarity, regional patterns and response mechanism of fitting parameters between PDC and FDCs, dividing the streamflow time series into fast and base flow and stations into three categories in consideration of human activities to attribute the shapes of PDC and FDCs to catchment meteorological and geographical characteristics and physical processes under natural conditions. Results indicate that the parameters of PDC and certain FDCs (TFDC, FFDC, SFDC) share similar spatial patterns but vary for the different duration and interactions of the processes. The climate and catchment characteristics such as extreme properties of precipitation, base flow index (BFI), Pmax*αp and concentration ratio index (CIM) will influence the shape of PDC and FDCs. The relationship between BFI and SFDC/TFDC can be better reflected in “Regulated watersheds”, while CIM/Pmax*αp and PDC/FFDC in “watersheds in the mainstream” are more related. This paper provides a deeper understanding and more accurate way of the application of these parameters in describing and predicting hydrological processes and estimation of PDC and FDCs in unmeasured catchments, and can be applied to more future research about processes based on catchment rainfall‐runoff responses and physical controls.
Rental market structure and housing dynamics: An interacted panel VAR investigation
Authors: Rubaszek Michal , Stenvall David , Uddin Gazi Salah
Published: February 2024

This article uses the interacted panel VAR method to analyse how institutional factors related to the structure of the housing market explain cross‐country heterogeneity in responses to macroeconomic shocks. While the previous literature focused on the stabilizing role of the mortgage market, we argue that housing tenure structure also plays an important role. In the baseline, we use data for nine OECD members to investigate how the size and regulations of the rental market affect the response of the housing market to interest rate shocks. As a reference, we also conduct a similar analysis with the mortgage market structure as the institutional factor. We find that both the rental market size and maximum loan‐to‐value ratios are important in explaining heterogeneity of housing market responses to macroeconomic shocks.
Atezolizumab Plus Bevacizumab Versus Lenvatinib for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Lu Jinpeng , Lin Xinyi , Teng Haiwen , Zheng Yansong
Published: February 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is often diagnosed in advanced stages. Following sorafenib, lenvatinib (LENV) has been approved as a first‐line treatment option for unresectable HCC. In the past few years, at least 9 large‐scale cohort studies have examined the efficacy and safety of LENV compared to atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (ATE/BEV) in unresectable HCC, but there is currently no direct meta‐analysis conducted for a comprehensive consolidation. To provide the most updated meta‐analysis of the clinical efficacy and safety of ATE/BEV versus LENV for patients with unresectable HCC. Our studies comparing the efficacy and safety of ATE/BEV and LENV in unresectable HCC were systematically searched in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science from inception to February 2023. Outcomes measured were overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), mortality, complete response (CR), partial response (PR), objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progressive disease (PD), stable disease (SD), and adverse events (AEs). Seven eligible studies involving 4428 patients (1569 in the ATE/BEV group and 2859 in the LENV group) were included in the narrative synthesis. All baseline characteristics were similar between the 2 groups except for Child‐Pugh class B. Ultimately, our meta‐analysis showed that the LENV group had longer OS and PFS than the ATE/BEV group. Moreover, patients on LENV were more likely to achieve SD, whereas those on ATE/BEV were more likely to achieve PR.
Desensitization using pegaspargase in the era of commercially available Erwinia: A single‐institution report on efficacy, cost, and resource utilization
Authors: Feldman Kira , Aaronson Kathryn , Gu Tina , Ige Kelsey , Southworth Erica , Sanchez Lauren , Stieglitz Elliot
Published: February 2024

Background

Pegaspargase is a therapeutic enzyme that is utilized in treatment regimens targeting pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia. However, many patients experience hypersensitivity reactions, requiring discontinuation of the therapy. Historically, this necessitated switching to an alternative form of the drug, most commonly asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi; however, in recent years this was difficult due to drug shortages and eventually commercial discontinuation. We report here our experience performing pegaspargase desensitizations in patients with prior hypersensitivity reactions.

Procedure

Patients with a clinical hypersensitivity reaction to pegaspargase were identified. When due for their next dose, patients were admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit, bone marrow transplant unit, or oncology unit, and underwent desensitization utilizing a rigorous premedication and multistep dilution‐based protocol. Serum asparaginase activity levels were drawn after desensitization to assess for therapeutic levels of enzyme activity.

Results

We identified 11 patients who underwent a total of 33 desensitizations to pegaspargase and calaspargase pegol‐mknl. No patients experienced clinically significant hypersensitivity reactions necessitating stopping the infusion, nor administration of rescue medications. All serum asparaginase activity levels collected demonstrated enzyme activity levels above predefined therapeutic thresholds. Cost analysis revealed substantial savings when patients received asparaginase desensitization over the now commercially available asparaginase E. chrysanthemi (recombinant) rywn.

Conclusions

Performing desensitization to pegaspargase in the pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia population is feasible, safe, and effective. It is financially advantageous over available alternative approaches, and requires fewer injections and presentations to care.
Experiences of a peer group for people diagnosed with borderline personality disorder: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Dahlenburg Sophie C. , Bartsch Dianna R. , Giles Jessica A. , Koehne Kristy A. , O'Sullivan Judy
Published: February 2024

There is a notable lack of literature evaluating peer support for people with a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder (BPD). Peer‐led groups have been shown to positively impact outcomes related to empowerment, hope, and self‐efficacy beliefs for consumers diagnosed with serious mental illness and may also be a helpful option for those experiencing personality disorder symptoms. We outline the coproduction of a peer group for people with a lived experience of BPD and a qualitative analysis of feedback post‐group participation. Twenty‐two consumers participated in post‐group interviews and described their experiences of peer support. Interview transcripts were coded, and three main themes were identified: growth and change, connection and feeling understood, and creating safety. The findings suggested that participation in a coproduced peer support group for people with a diagnosis of BPD facilitated positive personal transformation as well as opportunities to develop connection through shared experiences in a safe environment grounded in mutuality. These themes were particularly powerful for participants because they countered previous experiences of not feeling safe, understood, or equal when seeking treatment. These findings support the acceptability of implementing a coproduced group for people diagnosed with BPD in a community mental health setting.
Influence of molecular orientation on the photodissociation process of LiH molecules
Authors: Yan Yan , Liu Hong‐Ru , Sheng Zhu‐Ying , Cui Peng‐Fei , Yu Jie , Chai Shuo
Published: February 2024

Regulation of photodissociation dynamics of oriented LiH molecules in different dissociation channels is proposed based on time dependent quantum wave packet theory. The enhancement of molecular orientation on the photodissociation of LiH is obvious with our theoretical scheme. The results show that the molecular orientation in the ground state has a great effect on the angular distributions of wave packets. By using the proper laser pulses and controlling the polarization direction of the laser pulses, the enhancement of the photodissociation could be realized. After the molecular orientation, an optimal dissociation channel is observed with an improved dissociation probability. Compared with the results without molecular orientation, the maximal dissociation probability is increased by 8.1% in the indirect dissociation channel and 30.7% in the direct dissociation channel. The enhancement effect is more obvious in the direct dissociation channel, which provides a possible method to manipulate the dissociation of LiH molecules experimentally. Additionally, the photodissociation process of LiH also relies on the electric intensity and delay time of two pump pulses.
Experimental characterization of a cost‐competitive tailor‐made HPFRC mix design for wide application in precast girder of roadway bridges
Authors: Ruiz Rafael , Chozas‐Ligero Valle , Todisco Leonardo , Jimenez‐Vicaria J. David , Corres Hugo
Published: February 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive study on the development of a cost‐effective, high‐performance fiber reinforced concrete (HPFRC) for the construction of a 60 m‐span U‐girder roadway bridge without stirrups in the webs, meeting the design requirements of fck ≥ 100 MPa and the post‐cracking flexural strength fR3k ≈ 8–10 MPa. The main objective of this research is to develop a F5 workability class HPFRC that meets the specified design criteria without exceeding 2.5–3.0 times the cost of a C70/85. To achieve this goal, the concrete mix was obtained using 500 kg/m3 of cement and 50 kg/m3 of silica fume. This mix was investigated with nine different combinations of fibers and fiber contents, resulting that 80 kg/m3 of 4D‐fibers (lf = 60 mm) provided the optimal fR3k without compromising workability and cost. Subsequently, an extensive experimental campaign was conducted to cast the U‐girder following the conventional casting techniques involving casting prismatic samples, L‐shaped and rectangular‐shaped panels to represent different parts of the U‐girder. Innovative techniques were used to study the effect of different waiting times between concrete pours. Results from the testing of the prismatic specimens evidenced the need of stitching by means of a poker vibrator planes between successive concrete layers. Furthermore, the study of the panels evidenced that a waiting time of 90 min allows the HPFRC to achieve enough bending and compressive strength to bear internal vibration of the element without liquefying and, at the same time, avoiding cold joints. The results confirm the applicability of the developed HPFRC for the structural element under study following conventional casting techniques.
Spontaneous resorption of a C7–T1 intervertebral disc extrusion in a Cavalier King Charles spaniel confirmed via low‐field MRI
Authors: du Toit Michelle , Alisauskaite Neringa
Published: February 2024

A 4‐year‐old, male, neutered Cavalier King Charles spaniel was referred to the neurology service with a 10‐day history of cervical hyperaesthesia. A low‐field magnetic resonance imaging scan of the cervical spine identified a large C7–T1 intervertebral disc extrusion, resulting in severe spinal cord compression. The patient was treated with conservative therapy (exercise restriction and analgesia for 4 weeks). Repeat magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine was performed 4 months after initial presentation, and identified spontaneous resorption of the extruded C7–T1 disc material. There are very few documented cases of spontaneously resorbed cervical intervertebral disc extrusions in canine patients following successful conservative therapy. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of spontaneous resorption of an intervertebral disc extrusion at an unusual C7–T1 location confirmed via follow‐up low‐field magnetic resonance imaging following conservative therapy.
Sectorial Mertens and Mirsky formulae for imaginary quadratic number fields
Authors: Parkkonen Jouni , Paulin Frédéric
Published: February 2024

We extend formulae of Mertens and Mirsky on the asymptotic behaviour of the usual Euler function to the Euler functions of principal rings of integers of imaginary quadratic number fields, giving versions in angular sectors and with congruences.
Decreased expression of the NLRP6 inflammasome is associated with increased intestinal permeability and inflammation in obesity with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Frühbeck Gema , Gómez-Ambrosi Javier , Ramírez Beatriz , Becerril Sara , Rodríguez Amaia , Mentxaka Amaia , Valentí Víctor , Moncada Rafael , Reina Gabriel , Baixauli Jorge , Casado Marcos , Silva Camilo , Escalada Javier , Catalán Victoria
Published: February 2024

Background

Obesity-associated dysfunctional intestinal permeability contributes to systemic chronic inflammation leading to the development of metabolic diseases. The inflammasomes constitute essential components in the regulation of intestinal homeostasis. We aimed to determine the impact of the inflammasomes in the regulation of gut barrier dysfunction and metabolic inflammation in the context of obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

Blood samples obtained from 80 volunteers (n = 20 normal weight, n = 21 OB without T2D, n = 39 OB with T2D) and a subgroup of jejunum samples were used in a case–control study. Circulating levels of intestinal damage markers and expression levels of inflammasomes as well as their main effectors (IL-1β and IL-18) and key inflammation-related genes were analyzed. The impact of inflammation-related factors, different metabolites and Akkermansia muciniphila in the regulation of inflammasomes and intestinal integrity genes was evaluated. The effect of blocking NLRP6 by using siRNA in inflammation was also studied.

Results

Increased circulating levels (P < 0.01) of the intestinal damage markers endotoxin, LBP, and zonulin in patients with obesity decreased (P < 0.05) after weight loss. Patients with obesity and T2D exhibited decreased (P < 0.05) jejunum gene expression levels of NLRP6 and its main effector IL18 together with increased (P < 0.05) mRNA levels of inflammatory markers. We further showed that while NLRP6 was primarily localized in goblet cells, NLRP3 was localized in the intestinal epithelial cells. Additionally, decreased (P < 0.05) mRNA levels of Nlrp1, Nlrp3 and Nlrp6 in the small intestinal tract obtained from rats with diet-induced obesity were found. NLRP6 expression was regulated by taurine, parthenolide and A. muciniphila in the human enterocyte cell line CCL-241. Finally, a significant decrease (P < 0.01) in the expression and release of MUC2 after the knockdown of NLRP6 was observed.

Conclusions

The increased levels of intestinal damage markers together with the downregulation of NLRP6 and IL18 in the jejunum in obesity-associated T2D suggest a defective inflammasome sensing, driving to an impaired epithelial intestinal barrier that may regulate the progression of multiple obesity-associated comorbidities.
LRP10 and α-synuclein transmission in Lewy body diseases
Authors: Carreras Mascaro Ana , Grochowska Martyna M. , Boumeester Valerie , Dits Natasja F. J. , Bilgiҫ Ece Naz , Breedveld Guido J. , Vergouw Leonie , de Jong Frank Jan , van Royen Martin E. , Bonifati Vincenzo , Mandemakers Wim
Published: February 2024

Autosomal dominant variants in LRP10 have been identified in patients with Lewy body diseases (LBDs), including Parkinson’s disease (PD), Parkinson’s disease-dementia (PDD), and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Nevertheless, there is little mechanistic insight into the role of LRP10 in disease pathogenesis. In the brains of control individuals, LRP10 is typically expressed in non-neuronal cells like astrocytes and neurovasculature, but in idiopathic and genetic cases of PD, PDD, and DLB, it is also present in α-synuclein-positive neuronal Lewy bodies. These observations raise the questions of what leads to the accumulation of LRP10 in Lewy bodies and whether a possible interaction between LRP10 and α-synuclein plays a role in disease pathogenesis. Here, we demonstrate that wild-type LRP10 is secreted via extracellular vesicles (EVs) and can be internalised via clathrin-dependent endocytosis. Additionally, we show that LRP10 secretion is highly sensitive to autophagy inhibition, which induces the formation of atypical LRP10 vesicular structures in neurons in human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC)-derived brain organoids. Furthermore, we show that LRP10 overexpression leads to a strong induction of monomeric α-synuclein secretion, together with time-dependent, stress-sensitive changes in intracellular α-synuclein levels. Interestingly, patient-derived astrocytes carrying the c.1424 + 5G > A LRP10 variant secrete aberrant high-molecular-weight species of LRP10 in EV-free media fractions. Finally, we show that this truncated patient-derived LRP10 protein species (LRP10splice) binds to wild-type LRP10, reduces LRP10 wild-type levels, and antagonises the effect of LRP10 on α-synuclein levels and distribution. Together, this work provides initial evidence for a possible functional role of LRP10 in LBDs by modulating intra- and extracellular α-synuclein levels, and pathogenic mechanisms linked to the disease-associated c.1424 + 5G > A LRP10 variant, pointing towards potentially important disease mechanisms in LBDs.

Graphical abstract
A KAM Approach to the Inviscid Limit for the 2D Navier–Stokes Equations
Authors: Franzoi Luca , Montalto Riccardo
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we investigate the inviscid limit $$\nu \rightarrow 0$$

ν
→
0

for time-quasi-periodic solutions of the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations on the two-dimensional torus $${\mathbb {T}}^2$$

T

2

, with a small time-quasi-periodic external force. More precisely, we construct solutions of the forced Navier–Stokes equation, bifurcating from a given time quasi-periodic solution of the incompressible Euler equations and admitting vanishing viscosity limit to the latter, uniformly for all times and independently of the size of the external perturbation. Our proof is based on the construction of an approximate solution, up to an error of order $$O(\nu ^2)$$

O
(

ν
2

)

and on a fixed point argument starting with this new approximate solution. A fundamental step is to prove the invertibility of the linearized Navier–Stokes operator at a quasi-periodic solution of the Euler equation, with smallness conditions and estimates which are uniform with respect to the viscosity parameter. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first positive result for the inviscid limit problem that is global and uniform in time and it is the first KAM result in the framework of the singular limit problems.
Examining temporal trends in psychological distress and the co-occurrence of common substance use in a population-based sample of grade 7–12 students from 2013 to 2019
Authors: Halladay J. , Sunderland M. , Chapman C. , Repchuck R. , Georgiades K. , Boak A. , Hamilton H. A. , Slade T.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Characterizing trends and correlates of adolescent psychological distress is important due to observed global increases over the last 20 years. Substance use is a commonly discussed correlate, though we lack an understanding about how co-occurrence of these concerns has been changing over time.

Methods

Data came from repeated, representative, cross-sectional surveys of grade 7–12 students across Ontario, Canada conducted biennially from 2013 to 2019. Poisson regression with robust standard errors was used to examine changes in the joint association between psychological distress (operationalized as Kessler-6 [K6] scores ≥ 13) and substance use over time. Weighted prevalence ratios (PR) and their 99% confidence intervals were estimated, where p < 0.01 denotes statistical significance.

Results

The prevalence of psychological distress doubled between 2013 and 2019, with adjusted increases of about 1.2 times each survey year. This biennial increase did not differ based on sex, perceived social standing, school level, or any substance use. Students using substances consistently reported a higher prevalence of psychological distress (between 1.2 times and 2.7 times higher). There were similarly no differential temporal trends based on substance use for very high distress (K6 ≥ 19) or K6 items explored individually.

Conclusion

Psychological distress steeply increased among adolescents and substance use remains important to assess and address alongside distress. However, the magnitude of temporal increases appears to be similar for adolescents reporting and not reporting substance use.
Directed energy deposition + mechanical interlayer deformation additive manufacturing: a state-of-the-art literature review
Authors: Farias Francisco Werley Cipriano , dos Santos Telmo Jorge Gomes , Oliveira João Pedro
Published: February 2024

Directed energy deposition (DED) additive manufacturing systems have been developed and optimized for typical engineering materials and operational requirements. However, parts fabricated via DED often demonstrate a diminished material response, encompassing inferior mechanical properties and heat treatment outcomes compared to traditionally manufactured components (e.g., wrought and cast materials). As a result, parts produced by DED fail to meet stringent specifications and industry requirements, such as those in the nuclear, oil and gas, and aeronautics sectors, potentially limiting the industrial scalability of DED processes. To address these challenges, systems integrating DED with interlayer (cold or hot) mechanical deformation (e.g., rolling and hammering/peening, forging) have been developed. These systems refine the microstructure, mitigate the typical crystallographic texture through static and/or dynamic recrystallization, and enhance mechanical properties and heat treatment responses without altering material specifications. In this regard, the present state-of-the-art review reports the DED + interlayer mechanical deformation systems and their variants, and their potential and limitations, providing a critical analysis to support the development and adaptation of this technology to overcome the process and material limitations that currently prevent the large-scale industrial adoption of DED processes. Furthermore, a detailed description of the grain size refinement mechanisms induced by interlayer mechanical deformation and their respective effects on the mechanical properties of commonly used 3D-printed engineering alloys (e.g., Ti-6Al-4V, Inconel 718, various low-alloy steels, AISI 316L stainless steel, and Al-based series 2xxx) is comprehensively analyzed.
Measure of deviancy from marginal mean equality based on cumulative marginal probabilities in square contingency tables
Authors: Ando Shuji
Published: February 2024

This study proposes a measure that can concurrently evaluate the degree and direction of deviancy from the marginal mean equality (ME) model in square contingency tables with ordered categories. The proposed measure is constructed as the function of the row and column cumulative marginal probabilities. When the ME model does not fit data, we are interested in measuring the degree of deviancy from the ME model, because the model having weaker restrictions than the ME model is only the saturated model. This existing measure, which represents the degree of deviancy from the ME model, does not depend on the probabilities that observations will fall in the main diagonal cells of the table. For the data in which observations are concentrated in the main diagonal cells, the existing measure may overestimate the degree of deviancy from the ME model. The proposed measure can address this issue. This study derives an estimator and an approximate confidence interval for the proposed measure using the delta method. The proposed measure would be utility for comparing degrees of deviancy from the ME model in two datasets. The proposed measure is evaluated the usefulness with the application to real data of clinical trials.
Fano 4-folds with $b_{2}>12$ are products of surfaces
Authors: Casagrande C.
Published: February 2024

Let $X$
X
be a smooth, complex Fano 4-fold, and $\rho _{X}$

ρ
X

its Picard number. We show that if $\rho _{X}>12$

ρ
X

>
12
, then $X$
X
is a product of del Pezzo surfaces. The proof relies on a careful study of divisorial elementary contractions $f\colon X\to Y$
f
:
X
→
Y
such that $\dim f(\operatorname{Exc}(f))=2$
dim
f
(
Exc
(
f
)
)
=
2
, together with the author’s previous work on Fano 4-folds. In particular, given $f\colon X\to Y$
f
:
X
→
Y
as above, under suitable assumptions we show that $S:=f(\operatorname{Exc}(f))$
S
:
=
f
(
Exc
(
f
)
)
is a smooth del Pezzo surface with $-K_{S}=(-K_{Y})_{|S}$
−

K
S

=

(
−

K
Y

)

|
S

.
Regulatory Pathways in Growth Plate Chondrocytes that Are Impacted by Matrix Vesicle microRNA Identified by Targeted RISC Pulldown and Sequencing of the Resulting Transcriptome
Authors: Asmussen Niels C. , Cohen David J. , Boyan Barbara D. , Schwartz Zvi
Published: February 2024

During endochondral bone formation, growth plate chondrocytes are differentially regulated by various factors and hormones. As the cellular phenotype changes, the composition of the extracellular matrix is altered, including the production and composition of matrix vesicles (MV) and their cargo of microRNA. The regulatory functions of these MV microRNA in the growth plate are still largely unknown. To address this question, we undertook a targeted bioinformatics approach. A subset of five MV microRNA was selected for analysis based on their specific enrichment in these extracellular vesicles compared to the parent cells (miR-1-3p, miR-22-3p, miR-30c-5p, miR-122-5p, and miR-133a-3p). Synthetic biotinylated versions of the microRNA were produced using locked nucleic acid (LNA) and were transfected into rat growth plate chondrocytes. The resulting LNA to mRNA complexes were pulled down and sequenced, and the transcriptomic data were used to run pathway analysis pipelines. Bone and musculoskeletal pathways were discovered to be regulated by the specific microRNA, notably those associated with transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) and Wnt pathways, cell differentiation and proliferation, and regulation of vesicles and calcium transport. These results can help with understanding the maturation of the growth plate and the regulatory role of microRNA in MV.
Study of the Membrane Activity of the Synthetic Peptide ∆M3 Against Extended-Spectrum β-lactamase Escherichia coli Isolates
Authors: Fandiño-Devia Estefanía , Santa-González Gloria A. , Klaiss-Luna Maria C. , Manrique-Moreno Marcela
Published: February 2024

Escherichia coli is the most common microorganism causing nosocomial or community-acquired bacteremia, and extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli isolates are identified worldwide with increasing frequency. For this reason, it is necessary to evaluate potential new molecules like antimicrobial peptides. They are recognized for their biological potential which makes them promising candidates in the fight against infections. The goal of this research was to evaluate the potential of the synthetic peptide ΔM3 on several extended-spectrum β-lactamase producing E. coli isolates. The antimicrobial and cytotoxic activity of the peptide was spectrophotometrically determined. Additionally, the capacity of the peptide to interact with the bacterial membrane was monitored by fluorescence microscopy and infrared spectroscopy. The results demonstrated that the synthetic peptide is active against Escherichia coli isolates at concentrations similar to Meropenem. On the other hand, no cytotoxic effect was observed in HaCaT keratinocyte cells even at 10 times the minimal inhibitory concentration. Microscopy results showed a permeabilizing effect of the peptide on the bacteria. The infrared results showed that ΔM3 showed affinity for the lipids of the microorganism’s membrane. The results suggest that the ∆M3 interacts with the negatively charged lipids from the E. coli by a disturbing effect on membrane. Finally, the secondary structure experiments of the peptide showed a random structure in solution that did not change during the interaction with the membranes.

Graphic Abstract
Novel anti-inflammatory diketopiperazine alkaloids from the marine-derived fungus Penicillium brasilianum
Authors: Zhang Ya-Hui , Du Hui-Fang , Liu Yun-Feng , Cao Fei , Luo Du-Qiang , Wang Chang-Yun
Published: February 2024

Diketopiperazine alkaloids have proven the most abundant heterocyclic alkaloids up to now, which usually process diverse scaffolds and rich biological activities. In our search for bioactive diketopiperazine alkaloids from marine-derived fungi, two novel diketopiperazine alkaloids, penipiperazine A (1) and its biogenetically related new metabolite (2), together with a known analogue neofipiperzine C (3), were obtained from the strain Penicillium brasilianum. Their planar structures and absolute configurations were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analyses, 13C NMR calculation, Marfey’s, ECD, and ORD methods. Compound 1 featured a unique 6/5/6/6/5 indole-pyrazino-pyrazino-pyrrolo system, and its plausible biogenetic pathway was also proposed. Additionally, compounds 1–3 have been tested for their inflammatory activities. 1 and 2 significantly inhibited the release of NO and the expression of related pro-inflammatory cytokines on LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, suggesting they could be attracting candidate for further development as anti-inflammatory agent.

Key points

• A novel diketopiperazine alkaloid featuring a unique 6/5/6/6/5 indole-pyrazino-pyrazino-pyrrolo system was isolated from the marine fungus Penicillium brasilianum.

• The structure of 1 was elucidated by detailed analysis of 2D NMR data, 13C NMR calculation, Marfey’s, ECD, and ORD methods.

• Compounds 1 and 2 significantly inhibited the release of NO and the expression of related pro-inflammatory cytokines on LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells.

Graphical Abstract
Attenuation of Zucchini mosaic virus disease in cucumber plants by mycorrhizal symbiosis
Authors: Metwally Rabab A. , Taha Mohamed A. , El-Moaty Nada M. Abd , Abdelhameed Reda E.
Published: February 2024

Key message

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi generated systemic acquired resistance in cucumber to Zucchini yellow mosaic virus, indicating their prospective application in the soil as a sustainable, environmentally friendly approach to inhibit the spread of pathogens.

The wide spread of plant pathogens affects the whole world, causing several plant diseases and threatening national food security as it disrupts the quantity and quality of economically important crops. Recently, environmentally acceptable mitigating practices have been required for sustainable agriculture, restricting the use of chemical fertilizers in agricultural areas. Herein, the biological control of Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV) in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) plants using arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi was investigated. Compared to control plants, ZYMV-infected plants displayed high disease incidence (DI) and severity (DS) with various symptoms, including severe yellow mosaic, mottling and green blisters of leaves. However, AM fungal inoculation exhibited 50% inhibition for these symptoms and limited DS to 26% as compared to non-colonized ones. The detection of ZYMV by the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay technique exhibited a significant reduction in AM-inoculated plants (5.23-fold) compared with non-colonized ones. Besides, mycorrhizal root colonization (F%) was slightly reduced by ZYMV infection. ZYMV infection decreased all growth parameters and pigment fractions and increased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content, however, these parameters were significantly enhanced and the MDA content was decreased by AM fungal colonization. Also, the protein, proline and antioxidant enzymes (POX and CAT) were increased with ZYMV infection with more enhancements due to AM root colonization. Remarkably, defence pathogenesis-related (PR) genes such as PR-a, PR-b, and PR-10 were quickly expressed in response to AM treatment. Our findings demonstrated the beneficial function of AM fungi in triggering the plant defence against ZYMV as they caused systemic acquired resistance in cucumber plants and supported their potential use in the soil as an environment-friendly method of hindering the spread of pathogenic microorganisms sustainably.