bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of cooling temperature on microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti microalloyed steel
Authors: Zheng Xin , Zuo Yujian , Tian Hongxin , Wang Yingshuo
Published: March 2024

Ti is a relatively inexpensive alloying element. Ti micro-alloying enables steel to have higher strength, which has already been applied to steel products in many domains, including engineering machinery. In this work, the effects of cooling temperature upon the mechanical properties and microstructure of Ti microalloyed steel were researched by OM, TEM, tensile and impact tests. The consequences show that as the final cooling temperature (FCT) decreased, the steel plate microstructure changed from PF + P + B (less) to GB + PF (less)+ P (less), and the grain size decreased obviously. As the temperature further decreased to 607°C, the intragranular dislocation tangles and subgrains increased significantly. The size and number of large TiC precipitates in the steel plate decreased with the decrease of the final cooling temperature. Additionally, the mean size of precipitates decreases gradually. As the FCT varied between 672°C and 645°C, the steel plate strength and low temperature toughness were significantly improved. As the temperature is further reduced to 607°C, the strength increase was reduced. Due to the improvement of grain uniformity, the low temperature toughness was further enhanced to 156 J.
The effect of tightening torque on the strength of composite-metal hybrid joints
Authors: Wei Jingchao , Cao Su , Zhang Hui , Chen Xiangming , Yang Yu
Published: March 2024

In the manufacturing and assembly process of aircraft composite-metal hybrid structures, tightening torque is one of the important factors that control assembly quality and affect connection strength. This paper experimentally studies the mechanical properties of composite-metal single-bolt single-lap joints under different tightening torques, reveals the impact mechanism of different tightening torques on the manufacturing and assembly of composite-metal hybrid structures, and also establishes a finite element analysis model of hybrid connection structure considering the influence of drilling and assembly processes. The results show that the ultimate load of the composite-metal connection structure increased with the increase of tightening torque. When the tightening torques were 3 N·m, 6 N·m, and 9 N·m, the ultimate failure loads of the composite-metal hybrid joints were 12.9 kN, 13.8 kN, and 14.6 kN respectively.
Research electrical properties of Cu doped FeTe2 prepared by solid state reaction
Authors: Zeng Linghu , Shi Yunhao , Yang Guangji , Hu Panpan , Zhang Lang , Qin Bingke
Published: March 2024

The present study successfully prepared CuxFeTe2 (x=0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, and 0.2) compounds using a high-temperature solid state reaction sintering technique under preparation conditions ranging from 623 K to 823 K. The phase structure and microstructure of CuxFeTe2 were determined using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Simultaneously, we studied the Seebeck coefficient and electrical resistivity of the sample. It was found that the samples prepared at 673 K had a purer phase, and the thermal power coefficient was better for samples with a Cu doping concentration below 0.1.
Process characteristics of Q890D joint using hybrid fiber laser-arc hybrid welding
Authors: Shen Yuhang , Feng Jiecai , Luo Chuanwan
Published: March 2024

This article conducted a study on the process characteristics, structure, and properties of the Q890D joint. The results indicated that three-layer welding methods can obtain a joint free of pores and defects. The base metal was composed of a large amount of polygonal ferrite and dispersed granular carbides, while the weld metal consisted of lath martensite. The results also revealed that the average hardness of WM was 417.24 HV (20.7% higher than BM). The tensile performance of welded joints was better than that of BM. There were no obvious cracks on the surface of the bending specimens. Compared with BM, the impact strength and toughness of WM had been improved, since the impact toughness of HAZ was highly dispersed.
Analysis of disc movement during the closing process of axial flow check valves
Authors: Wang Ting , Li Na , Kong Beibei , Ni Xiaomei , Li Xiangbao
Published: March 2024

In a long-distance pipeline system, when the pump is stopped, the axial flow check valve will suddenly close under the pressure difference force of the medium, and the instantaneous valve disc will collide and impact the valve seat at a certain speed, which will have a certain impact on the structural strength and service life of the check valve. This article uses explicit dynamics to simulate the movement process of the instantaneous valve disc when it is completely closed and analyzes the velocity of the valve disc after the collision. Based on the spring damping model theory, the velocity of the valve disc after collision is derived. After error analysis, the reliability of numerical simulation has been verified, which has a certain guiding significance for the practical application and design improvement of axial flow check valves.
Design of a superconducting UWB bandpass filter with tunable notch band
Authors: Shang Zhaojiang , Huang Jianyong , Zhang Huibin , Yang Weijin
Published: March 2024

By studying the principles of ultra-wideband (UWB) and band-stop, a novel band-pass filter with adjustable band-stop characteristics is proposed. The filter achieves 3.1-10.6 GHz UWB bandpass characteristics through an improved multi-mode resonator. An L-shape λ/2 notch resonator loaded with a 2-bit reconfigurable interdigital capacitor (IDC) array is coupled to the multiple-mode resonator and generates a tunable notch band to reject any undesired signal that may interfere with the UWB passband. By connecting the IDC to the ground or not, the capacitance of each IDC and the corresponding notch frequency can be adjusted. After design and optimization, the final size of the superconducting filter is 20.0 mm × 6.9 mm, and the test results and simulation results are highly consistent.
Dynamic compressive property of extruded VW75-Ti (wt.%) alloy under high strain rates
Authors: Zhang Tong , Ma Minglong , Li Yongjun , Yuan Jiawei , Li Xinggang , Shi Guoliang , Sun Zhaoqian , Zhang Kui
Published: March 2024

The dynamic compressive properties of extruded VW75 and VW75+Ti alloys were investigated by using a split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) at 25°C under high strain rates of 1, 600-2, 700 s-1 in the present work, and the microstructure evolution after deformation was inspected by OM, SEM, and EBSD. The results demonstrated that the maximum stress value rises with the escalating strain rate in the course of impact, and the true stress-true strain curves of the two alloys exhibit strain strengthening and positive strain effect. The addition of Ti particles refines alloy grains, increases fracture strength, and decreases the twinning ratio.
Formation and prevention of turning crack of screw for electronic parking brake system
Authors: Liu Dong , Li Liejun , Long Hu , Zhong Shoujun , Li Fuqiang , Gao Jixiang
Published: March 2024

The cracking of screws made from medium-carbon cold heading steel for the electronic parking brake system was studied through the analysis of the microstructure and the systematic investigation of the whole process, and the corresponding improvement measures were proposed at last. Results showed that the cracks initiated at the root of the threads due to insufficient plasticity generated by the large pressure during thread rolling were the resource of the fracture, which was further extruded during the turning process, while the centering condition was not well. It was necessary to adjust the appropriate parameters of rolling pressure and rolling time to avoid heavy work hardening and also pay attention to the cleanness on the surface of the rolling plate or the wheel.
Techno-economic analysis of hydrogen production systems based on solar/wind hybrid renewable energy
Authors: Song Chunyan , Zhang Bo , Cai Wenchao , Zhang Dounan , Yan Xianglin , Yang Tianqi , Xiao Jinsheng
Published: March 2024

With the popularity of renewable energy, more and more countries and regions are utilizing renewable energy to produce hydrogen. However, renewable energy hydrogen production systems are often large in capacity and equipment, and require rational design as well as performance analysis of the system to satisfy the technicalities while ensuring the economics. In this paper, 12 different renewable energy systems for hydrogen production, including 6 grid-connected systems and 6 off-grid systems, are designed considering solar and wind energy as the main renewable energy sources in a place in China. Subsequently, simulations were carried out using HOMER software to compare and analyze the economic and technical performance of different schemes of renewable energy hydrogen production systems, and the best grid-connected and off-grid renewable energy hydrogen production system schemes were selected based on the comparison results.
The characteristics of corn gluten-free cookies with modified cellulose as food additives
Authors: Herawati Heny , Kusniasari Indah , Sunarmani  , Kusnandar Feri , Agustinisari Iceu , Fetriyuna Fetriyuna , Hastuti Novitri , Eris Fitria Riany , Bachtiar Muchamad , Rahayu Eka
Published: March 2024

Several investigations were conducted to enhance the properties of gluten-free bakery items. Challenges in the development of gluten-free products involve a reduction in development capacity and product texture. One potential solution is to enhance the quality of gluten-free products by incorporating food additives from modified cellulose. The objective of this research to formulate and assess the impact of incorporating modified cellulose (CMC, MC, HPMC, and MCG) on the characteristics of gluten-free cookies made from corn flour. The study employed a completely randomized design for its investigation. The factor used was the type of cellulose derivative with an additional concentration of 1% with two replications. Based on the results of the study, it was shown that the addition of types of cellulose derivatives affected the characteristics of colour, proximate analysis results, and texture of gluten-free cookies from corn flour. The development ratio of HPMC cookies was nominally the highest at 12.38 (mm/gram), although statistically there was no significant difference between treatments. The fat content of the control cookies was higher at 19.16% compared to other cookies with added cellulose derivatives. The carbohydrate content of HPMC cookies is the highest at 88.00% compared to other cookies. This resulted in the lowest energy value of HPMC cookies at 389.26 kcal compared to other cookies. The microstructural profile based on SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) of the resulting cookies shows different porosity. Based on the research results, adding several cellulose derivatives can improve the characteristics of gluten-free cookies from corn flour.
Detection of tetanus toxoid with iron magnetic nanobioprobe
Authors: Karkhaneh Farzaneh , Sadr Ziba Karimi , Rad Ahmad Molai , Divsalar Adele
Published: March 2024

Diagnosis of diseases with low facilities, speed, accuracy and sensitivity is an important matter in treatment. Bioprobes based on iron oxide nanoparticles are a good candidate for early detection of deadly and infectious diseases such as tetanus due to their high reactivity, biocompatibility, low production cost and sample separation under a magnetic field. In this study, silane groups were coated on surface of iron oxide nanoparticles using tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) hydrolysis. Also, NH2 groups were generated on the surface of silanized nanoparticles using 3-aminopropyl triethoxy silane (APTES). Antibody was immobilized on the surface of silanized nanoparticles using TCT trichlorothriazine as activator. Silanization and stabilized antibody were investigated by using of FT-IR, EDX, VSM, SRB technique. UV/vis spectroscopy, fluorescence, agglutination test and ELISA were used for biosensor performance and specificity. The results of FT-IR spectroscopy showed that Si–O–Si and Si-O-Fe bonds and TCT chlorine and amine groups of tetanus anti-toxoid antibodies were formed on the surface of iron oxide nanoparticles. The presence of Si, N and C elements in EDX analysis confirms the silanization of iron oxide nanoparticles. VSM results showed that the amount of magnetic nanoparticles after conjugation is sufficient for biological applications. Antibody stabilization on nanoparticles increased the adsorption intensity in the uv/vis spectrometer. The fluorescence intensity of nano bioprobe increased in the presence of 10 ng ml−1. Nanobio probes were observed as agglomerates in the presence of tetanus toxoid antigen. The presence of tetanus antigen caused the formation of antigen-nanobioprobe antigen complex. Identification of this complex by HRP-bound antibody confirmed the specificity of nanobioprobe. Tetanus magnetic nanobioprobe with a diagnostic limit of 10 ng ml−1 of tetanus antigen in a short time can be a good tool in LOC devices and microfluidic chips.
A microdosimetry analysis of reversible electroporation in scattered, overlapping, and cancerous cervical cells
Authors: Kumar Mayank , Mishra Ashutosh
Published: March 2024

We present a numerical method for studying reversible electroporation on normal and cancerous cervical cells. This microdosimetry analysis builds on a unique approach for extracting contours of free and overlapping cervical cells in the cluster from the Extended Depth of Field (EDF) images. The algorithm used for extracting the contours is a joint optimization of multiple-level set function along with the Gaussian mixture model and Maximally Stable Extremal Regions. These contours are then exported to a multi-physics domain solver, where a variable frequency pulsed electric field is applied. The trans-Membrane voltage (TMV) developed across the cell membrane is computed using the Maxwell equation coupled with a statistical approach, employing the asymptotic Smoluchowski equation. The numerical model was validated by successful replication of existing experimental configurations that employed low-frequency uni-polar pulses on the overlapping cells to obtain reversible electroporation, wherein, several overlapping clumps of cervical cells were targeted. For high-frequency calculation, a combination of normal and cancerous cells is introduced to the computational domain. The cells are assumed to be dispersive and the Debye dispersion equation is used for further calculations. We also present the resulting strength-duration relationship for achieving the threshold value of electroporation between the normal and cancerous cervical cells due to their size and conductivity differences. The dye uptake modulation during the high-frequency electric field electroporation is further advocated by a mathematical model.
Computational capabilities and compiler development for neutral atom quantum processors—connecting tool developers and hardware experts
Authors: Schmid Ludwig , Locher David F , Rispler Manuel , Blatt Sebastian , Zeiher Johannes , Müller Markus , Wille Robert
Published: March 2024

Neutral Atom Quantum Computing(NAQC) emerges as a promising hardware platform primarily due to its long coherence times and scalability. Additionally, NAQC offers computational advantages encompassing potential long-range connectivity, native multi-qubit gate support, and the ability to physically rearrange qubits with high fidelity. However, for the successful operation of a NAQC processor, one additionally requires new software tools to translate high-level algorithmic descriptions into a hardware executable representation, taking maximal advantage of the hardware capabilities. Realizing new software tools requires a close connection between tool developers and hardware experts to ensure that the corresponding software tools obey the corresponding physical constraints. This work aims to provide a basis to establish this connection by investigating the broad spectrum of capabilities intrinsic to the NAQC platform and its implications on the compilation process. To this end, we first review the physical background of NAQC and derive how it affects the overall compilation process by formulating suitable constraints and figures of merit. We then provide a summary of the compilation process and discuss currently available software tools in this overview. Finally, we present selected case studies and employ the discussed figures of merit to evaluate the different capabilities of NAQC and compare them between two hardware setups.
Storm surge changes around the UK under a weakened Atlantic meridional overturning circulation
Authors: Howard Tom , Palmer Matthew D , Jackson Laura C , Yamazaki Kuniko
Published: March 2024

Climate model projections of future North Atlantic storm track changes under global warming are very uncertain, with models showing a variety of responses. Atmospheric storms force storm surges which are a major contributor to coastal flooding hazard in the UK, and so it is important to know how this process might be influenced by climate change—not only what future is probable, but what is possible? As a contribution to answering that question, we drive a simplified model of the north-west European coastal shelf waters with atmospheric forcing taken from climate simulations with HadGEM3-GC3-MM (1/4 degree ocean, approx. 60 km atmosphere in mid-latitudes) which exhibit a substantial weakening of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). The first is a ‘hosing’ simulation in which a rapid shut-down of the AMOC is induced by modelling the addition of freshwater to the North Atlantic. The second is the HadGEM3 GC3.05 perturbed parameter ensemble simulation under Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 (RCP 8.5) which was used to inform the UK Climate Projections 2018 (UKCP18). This model has a high climate sensitivity and exhibits substantial weakening of the AMOC. We find substantial simulated increases at some sites: up to about 25% increase in the expected annual maximum meteorological component of the storm surge. In both the hosing simulation and the ensemble simulation, the greatest projected increases are seen at some west coast sites, consistent with strengthening of the strongest westerly winds. On the south-east coast, projected changes are smaller in the hosing simulation and generally negative in the ensemble simulation. The ensemble simulation shows a decrease in the strongest northerly winds as well as the growth in the westerlies. Overall, these low-likelihood increases over the 21st century associated with storminess are smaller than the likely contribution from mean sea-level rise over the same period, but, importantly, larger than the so-called “high-end” changes associated with storminess that were reported in UKCP18.
A critical review on the application of machine learning in supporting auxetic metamaterial design
Authors: Zhang Chonghui , Zhao Yaoyao Fiona
Published: March 2024

The progress of machine learning (ML) in the past years has opened up new opportunities to the design of auxetic metamaterials. However, successful implementation of ML algorithms remains challenging, particularly for complex problems such as domain performance prediction and inverse design. In this paper, we first reviewed classic auxetic designs and summarized their variants in different applications. The enormous variant design space leads to challenges using traditional design or topology optimization. Therefore, we also investigated how ML techniques can help address design challenges of auxetic metamaterials and when researchers should deploy them. The theories behind the techniques are explained, along with practical application examples from the analyzed literature. The advantages and limitations of different ML algorithms are discussed and trends in the field are highlighted. Finally, two practical problems of ML-aided design, design scales and data collection are discussed.
High-throughput microfluidic production of carbon capture microcapsules: fundamentals, applications, and perspectives
Authors: Liu Xiangdong , Gao Wei , Lu Yue , Wu Liangyu , Chen Yongping
Published: March 2024

In the last three decades, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions have shown a significant increase from various sources. To address this pressing issue, the importance of reducing CO2 emissions has grown, leading to increased attention toward carbon capture, utilization, and storage strategies. Among these strategies, monodisperse microcapsules, produced by using droplet microfluidics, have emerged as promising tools for carbon capture, offering a potential solution to mitigate CO2 emissions. However, the limited yield of microcapsules due to the inherent low flow rate in droplet microfluidics remains a challenge. In this comprehensive review, the high-throughput production of carbon capture microcapsules using droplet microfluidics is focused on. Specifically, the detailed insights into microfluidic chip fabrication technologies, the microfluidic generation of emulsion droplets, along with the associated hydrodynamic considerations, and the generation of carbon capture microcapsules through droplet microfluidics are provided. This review highlights the substantial potential of droplet microfluidics as a promising technique for large-scale carbon capture microcapsule production, which could play a significant role in achieving carbon neutralization and emission reduction goals.
Anti-lock braking system control design using a non-linear multi-body dynamic model for a two wheeled vehicle
Authors: Khadr Aymen , Houidi Ajmi , Romdhane Lotfi
Published: March 2024

This paper investigates the design of an Antilock Braking System for a Two Wheeled Vehicle using a non-linear multi-body dynamic model developed by an approach widely used in robotics. The Antilock Braking System is controlled using Matlab/Simulink by applying the Bang-Bang, Proportional-Integral-Derivative and Fuzzy Logic controllers in order to set the longitudinal slip to a desired value. The developed model is used to study the braking performances of a Two Wheeled Vehicle in a straight-line maneuver under different road conditions: dry, wet and a transition between both. The simulation results indicate that the non-linear dynamic model can effectively simulate the behavior of the Two Wheeled Vehicle under emergency braking conditions and with the different types of controllers. The braking performance of the Two Wheeled Vehicle with Antilock Braking System was improved by decreasing the stopping distance, avoiding wheel lockup and therefore contributes to ensure the vehicle control and stability and to reduce the risk of falling. Also, it can be seen through comparative analysis that the Fuzzy logic is one of the most efficient controllers that improve the braking safety.
Population Estimates
Authors: Sinner Alejandro , Carreras Cèsar , Houten Pieter
Published: March 2024

Population studies in archaeology rely on various methodological approaches, including the analysis of architectural remains, cemeteries, and field surveys. Chapter 3 of the book focuses on the different methods, formulae, and variables used to calculate population densities in both rural and urban areas. The chapter discusses the limitations and possibilities of different methods. It also presents a bottom-up approach that highlights the need for a more regional approach to the calculation of population densities to better reflect the reality of antiquity, taking into account factors such as climate, culture, or living standards that can affect individual or family living space. The chapter ends discussing the importance of archaeological field survey data to calculate rural densities and how these data can later be compared with historical sources such as Pliny’s statements about population densities in specific regions of the province.
Population, Urbanization, and Settlement Patterns in the Late Iron Age
Authors: Sinner Alejandro , Carreras Cèsar , Houten Pieter
Published: March 2024

Chapter 4 uses a methodological approach to estimate the population of Iron Age settlements (oppida) in the territory under study, as well as to identify urbanization ratios and settlement patterns. The chapter also addresses the challenges faced while working with Iron Age data, such as the lack of a complete sample of cities and the difficulty of determining which settlements should be classified as urban, secondary agglomerations, or rural sites. The chapter also employs rank-size analysis, which is a method used to evaluate whether city sizes display regularities that indicate a hierarchy related to territorial and/or political control, and employs this method to analyse a large sample of sites from each Iron Age group individually. This approach provides a new perspective on the similarities and differences between the settlement hierarchies and political systems of different Iron Age groups in the Iberian peninsula.
Household Finance
Authors: Deaves Richard
Published: March 2024

Household Finance: An Introduction to Individual Financial Behavior is about how individuals make financial decisions and how these financial decisions contribute to and detract from their well-being. Financial decision makers must plan, save, take on an appropriate amount of risk, insure assets when needed, handle debt appropriately, and invest, either on their own or through delegating portfolio management. These and other decisions are covered, both in the normative sense (i.e., what is best) based on conventional financial theory and in the positive sense (i.e., what is actually done) based on observing behavior. Household finance thus covers both modern finance and behavioral finance at the level of the household decision-making unit. While modern finance builds models of behavior and markets based on strong assumptions such as the rationality of decision makers, behavioral finance is based on the view that sometimes people behave in a less-than-fully-rational fashion when making financial decisions. Important puzzles and issues are addressed, such as financial illiteracy, whether education and advice can improve outcomes, intertemporal consumption optimization, consumption smoothing, optimal dynamic risk-taking, the stock market participation puzzle, the credit card debt puzzle, anomalous insurance decisions, mortgage choices, skewness preference, investments driven by availability and attention, local and home bias, the disposition effect, optimal pension design, and improving outcomes through nudging.
Introduction
Authors: Deaves Richard
Published: March 2024

This introduction sets the stage for an exploration of household finance, a field that describes how individuals and households should make and actually do make financial decisions in their day to day lives. In this sense both normative and positive aspects of behavior are explored. Evidence is presented that decision-makers do not always behave in a fully rational fashion. For example, they display loss aversion in fixating on short-term losses. Furthermore, while people appropriately shy away from risk, there is an inappropriate tendency to needlessly avoid ambiguity. Such behaviors are argued to arise from evolutionary adaptation. The introduction ends by previewing the rest of the book.
Planners
Authors: Deaves Richard
Published: March 2024

This chapter, after summarizing the key financial decisions that must be made by households, considers whether individuals are equipped to make them. Planners are better positioned to do so than avoiders. The same holds for those with a reasonable level of financial literacy, whether obtained by financial education or through other means. If it is well intentioned and done competently, advice can help. Unfortunately, conflicts of interest are not uncommon, inducing some financial decision makers to steer clear of advice. The chapter also explores two important personal investment decisions, the decision to obtain higher education and the owning vs. renting decision in the context of housing.
Allocators
Authors: Deaves Richard
Published: March 2024

This chapter focuses on risk-taking via the asset allocation decisions that households must make. Investment funds must be assigned to asset classes, in particular domestic vs. foreign, and equity vs. fixed income. Related issues are addressed, such as the importance of international diversification and whether investors truly understand asset allocation. Risk-taking also has a dynamic dimension. As a nontheoretical beginning, a common rule of thumb suggested by financial advisors is described for risk-taking over the life cycle. But it is not a one-time decision: rebalancing must be done over time, because the appropriate risky share can change both because of market events and with the mere passage of time. Whether one might want to adjust the risky share in anticipation of rising or falling equity markets is also discussed.
Delegators
Authors: Deaves Richard
Published: March 2024

This chapter focuses on two alternatives to do-it-yourself active investment, namely indexation and investment management delegation. How indexation, which is the act of replicating an index, usually a market-level index, works is described. The choice of indexation means that an investor is willing to accept average market returns and not seek to detect mispriced securities. The pros and cons of another salient option, delegating active management, are discussed. The main focus is on whether the fees charged are at least earned back in return enhancement. One useful finding is that direct sold funds tend to do a bit better than broker sold funds. The chapter ends with a look at investment best practices.
Analysis of appropriateness and safety when discharging patients on triple-antithrombotic therapies
Authors: Robichaux Taylor , Edwards Kristyn , Carter Ashley , Washington Andrea , Brooks Shelby
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To analyze the appropriateness of triple-antithrombotic therapy based on the 2020 American College of Cardiology (ACC) consensus statement while evaluating safety outcomes for patients with respect to adverse events.

Methods

A single-center, retrospective chart review was conducted using electronic medical records from December 18, 2020, to August 31, 2022. The primary endpoint was the rate of appropriateness for triple-antithrombotic therapy in patients discharged from Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport. Appropriateness was a composite endpoint extrapolated from the 2020 ACC consensus statement. For therapy to be defined as appropriate, patients had to have had the correct therapy indication, medications, dosing, and 30-day duration. Secondary safety endpoints included the percentage of patients rehospitalized at 14 and 30 days, the rate of major bleeding events, and the percentage of patients on gastrointestinal prophylaxis while on triple-antithrombotic therapy.

Results

A total of 93 patients were included in the study, of whom 31 (33%) received appropriate triple-antithrombotic therapy. Prolonged duration of triple-antithrombotic therapy was the most common reason that therapy did not meet the primary endpoint. The readmission rate due to bleeding was 2.2% at 14 days and 6.5% at 30 days. Within 30 days of initiation of triple therapy, 4.3% of patients endured major bleeding as defined by the International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis and 2 patients died.

Conclusion

In this single-center study, triple-antithrombotic therapy appropriately adhered to the 2020 ACC consensus statement for one-third of patients discharged on this therapy.
The matador bug’s elaborate flags deter avian predators
Authors: Rubin Juliette J , Medina-Madrid Jorge L , Falk Jay J , Somjee Ummat
Published: March 2024

Large, conspicuous traits frequently evolve despite increased predator attention, but in some cases, specifically to attract attention. Sexually selected traits provide some of the clearest examples of elaboration, yet natural selection can also be a powerful driver. The matador bug, Anisoscelis alipes (Hemiptera: Coreidae), has large, colorful flags on its hindlegs that, unlike many other coreid species, are not used in reproductive competition. We hypothesized that these flags either 1) warn predators of chemical defense or 2) deflect predatory attack to the removable hindlegs. We pitted matador bugs with or without flags and crickets (Acheta domesticus) with or without bug flags experimentally attached to their legs, against live motmot bird predators (Momotus subrufescens and Electron platyrhynchum). Contrary to the deflection hypothesis, almost none of the predatory strikes were directed at hindleg flags. Instead, we found support for the aposematism hypothesis: matador bug flags reduced attacks on palatable crickets but were unnecessary to prevent predator attacks against matador bugs. Palatability studies with naïve chicks (Gallus gallus) further supported a chemical defense hypothesis. Thus, these elaborate hindleg flags serve an aposematic anti-predator function, but in their absence, birds use alternative cues. These findings add to our understanding of the role of predation in driving the evolution of elaborate morphological structures.
longmixr: a tool for robust clustering of high-dimensional cross-sectional and longitudinal variables of mixed data types
Authors: Hagenberg Jonas , Budde Monika , Pandeva Teodora , Kondofersky Ivan , Schaupp Sabrina K , Theis Fabian J , Schulze Thomas G , Müller Nikola S , Heilbronner Urs , Batra Richa , Knauer-Arloth Janine
Published: March 2024

Accurate clustering of mixed data, encompassing binary, categorical, and continuous variables, is vital for effective patient stratification in clinical questionnaire analysis. To address this need, we present longmixr, a comprehensive R package providing a robust framework for clustering mixed longitudinal data using finite mixture modeling techniques. By incorporating consensus clustering, longmixr ensures reliable and stable clustering results. Moreover, the package includes a detailed vignette that facilitates cluster exploration and visualization.

Availability and implementation

The R package is freely available at https://cran.r-project.org/package=longmixr with detailed documentation, including a case vignette, at https://cellmapslab.github.io/longmixr/.
Digger: directed annotation of immunoglobulin and T cell receptor V, D, and J gene sequences and assemblies
Authors: Lees William D , Saha Swati , Yaari Gur , Watson Corey T
Published: March 2024

Knowledge of immunoglobulin and T cell receptor encoding genes is derived from high-quality genomic sequencing. High-throughput sequencing is delivering large volumes of data, and precise, high-throughput approaches to annotation are needed. Digger is an automated tool that identifies coding and regulatory regions of these genes, with results comparable to those obtained by current expert curational methods.

Availability and implementation

Digger is published under open source license at https://github.com/williamdlees/Digger and is available as a Python package and a Docker container.
scPathoQuant: a tool for efficient alignment and quantification of pathogen sequence reads from 10× single cell sequencing datasets
Authors: Whitmore Leanne S , Tisoncik-Go Jennifer , Gale Michael
Published: March 2024

Motivation

Currently there is a lack of efficient computational pipelines/tools for conducting simultaneous genome mapping of pathogen-derived and host reads from single cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) output from pathogen-infected cells. Contemporary options include processes involving multiple steps and/or running multiple computational tools, increasing user operations time.

Results

To address the need for new tools to directly map and quantify pathogen and host sequence reads from within an infected cell from scRNAseq datasets in a single operation, we have built a python package, called scPathoQuant. scPathoQuant extracts sequences that were not aligned to the primary host genome, maps them to a pathogen genome of interest (here as demonstrated for viral pathogens), quantifies total reads mapping to the entire pathogen, quantifies reads mapping to individual pathogen genes, and finally integrates pathogen sequence counts into matrix files that are used by standard single cell pipelines for downstream analyses with only one command. We demonstrate that scPathoQuant provides a scRNAseq viral and host genome-wide sequence read abundance analysis that can differentiate and define multiple viruses in a single sample scRNAseq output.

Availability and implementation

The SPQ package is available software accessible at https://github.com/galelab/scPathoQuant (DOI 10.5281/zenodo.10463670) with test codes and datasets available https://github.com/galelab/Whitmore_scPathoQuant_testSets (DOI 10.5281/zenodo.10463677) to serve as a resource for the community.
Morphological diversity and evolutionary changes of pollinaria in Hoya (Marsdenieae: Apocynaceae)
Authors: Kuang Yanfeng , Jia Raozhen , Rodda Michele , Zhang Jingfeng , Xia Meng , Wu Chenghou , Liao Jingping
Published: March 2024

The pollinarium morphologies of 85 species and four subspecies of Hoya were investigated in the present study. The longest pollinium was found in Hoya multiflora, the widest in H. archboldiana, and the smallest in H. bilobata. Pollinium shape showed the widest variation range of all palynological characters, and nine shapes were distinguished in this study. A pellucid margin was present in the pollinium of 84 taxa, and absent in five species. In total, 10 types of pollinarium were recognized based on the following characters: presence/absence of a pellucid margin and the caudicle wing, the ratio of corpusculum/pollinarium length, width/length of pollinium, and curving orientation of the caudicle wings. Types V and X were found in a greater number of taxa compared with the other eight types. Type V is a combination of obliquely elongate or oblong pollinium, presence of a pellucid margin and caudicle wing, and corpusculum length less than half of the pollinium. Type X combines pollinium with variable shapes, a pellucid margin, unwinged and twisted caudicle, and corpusculum with obvious lateral extensions. The characters of 46 taxa with a resolved position in the latest phylogeny of Hoya were mapped and ancestral reconstruction analysis was carried out, indicating that the presence of a pellucid margin in the pollinium, corpusculum length less than half of the pollinium, and rhomboid-shaped corpusculum with lower extensions represent the ancestral state of the genus. Clade II is characterized by the absence of a pellucid margin and twisted caudicles. Loss of the pellucid margin occurring in Clade II and sometimes in other clades is considered independent reversals to the plesiomorphic state. The presence of a pellucid margin and rhomboid corpusculum, and absence of caudicle wings characterizes Clade IV. Ancestral reconstruction analysis revealed that pollinarium type V was the ancestral state of the core lineage Clade V. The species in this clade share presence of both a pellucid margin and caudicle wing, straight caudicle, and pollinium width of 201–300 µm. Clade VI (the largest lineage) as well as Clades I and III have diverse palynological characters, but pollinarium type X and type V is probably the ancestral state of Clades VI and I, respectively.
Paroxysmal dystonia results from the loss of RIM4 in Purkinje cells
Authors: Kim Hyuntae , Melliti Nesrine , Breithausen Eva , Michel Katrin , Colomer Sara Ferrando , Poguzhelskaya Ekaterina , Nemcova Paulina , Ewell Laura , Blaess Sandra , Becker Albert , Pitsch Julika , Dietrich Dirk , Schoch Susanne
Published: March 2024

Full-length RIM1 and 2 are key components of the presynaptic active zone that ubiquitously control excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitter release. Here, we report that the function of the small RIM isoform RIM4, consisting of a single C2 domain, is strikingly different from that of the long isoforms.

RIM4 is dispensable for neurotransmitter release but plays a postsynaptic, cell type-specific role in cerebellar Purkinje cells that is essential for normal motor function. In the absence of RIM4, Purkinje cell intrinsic firing is reduced and caffeine-sensitive, and dendritic integration of climbing fibre input is disturbed. Mice lacking RIM4, but not mice lacking RIM1/2, selectively in Purkinje cells exhibit a severe, hours-long paroxysmal dystonia. These episodes can also be induced by caffeine, ethanol or stress and closely resemble the deficits seen with mutations of the PNKD (paroxysmal non-kinesigenic dystonia) gene.

Our data reveal essential postsynaptic functions of RIM proteins and show non-overlapping specialized functions of a small isoform despite high homology to a single domain in the full-length proteins.
Resting network architecture of theta oscillations reflects hyper-learning of sensorimotor information in Gilles de la Tourette syndrome
Authors: Takacs Adam , Toth-Faber Eszter , Schubert Lina , Tárnok Zsanett , Ghorbani Foroogh , Trelenberg Madita , Nemeth Dezso , Münchau Alexander , Beste Christian
Published: March 2024

Gilles de la Tourette syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by motor and vocal tics. It is associated with enhanced processing of stimulus–response associations, including a higher propensity to learn probabilistic stimulus–response contingencies (i.e. statistical learning), the nature of which is still elusive. In this study, we investigated the hypothesis that resting-state theta network organization is a key for the understanding of superior statistical learning in these patients. We investigated the graph–theoretical network architecture of theta oscillations in adult patients with Gilles de la Tourette syndrome and healthy controls during a statistical learning task and in resting states both before and after learning. We found that patients with Gilles de la Tourette syndrome showed a higher statistical learning score than healthy controls, as well as a more optimal (small-world-like) theta network before the task. Thus, patients with Gilles de la Tourette syndrome had a superior facility to integrate and evaluate novel information as a trait-like characteristic. Additionally, the theta network architecture in Gilles de la Tourette syndrome adapted more to the statistical information during the task than in HC. We suggest that hyper-learning in patients with Gilles de la Tourette syndrome is likely a consequence of increased sensitivity to perceive and integrate sensorimotor information leveraged through theta oscillation-based resting-state dynamics. The study delineates the neural basis of a higher propensity in patients with Gilles de la Tourette syndrome to pick up statistical contingencies in their environment. Moreover, the study emphasizes pathophysiologically endowed abilities in patients with Gilles de la Tourette syndrome, which are often not taken into account in the perception of this common disorder but could play an important role in destigmatization.
Immunogenicity and Safety of a Purified Vero Rabies Vaccine—Serum Free, Compared With 2 Licensed Vaccines, in a Simulated Rabies Post-Exposure Regimen in Healthy Adults in France: A Randomized, Controlled, Phase 3 Trial
Authors: Pineda-Peña Andrea-Clemencia , Jiang Qian , Petit Celine , Korejwo-Peyramond Joanna , Donazzolo Yves , Latreille Mathilde , Homery Marie-Claude , Babin Valerie , Benamor Sonia , Pichon Sylvie , Guinet-Morlot Françoise , Minutello Ada-Maria
Published: March 2024

Background

A next-generation Vero cell rabies vaccine (PVRV-NG2) was developed using the same Pitman–Moore strain as in the licensed purified Vero cell vaccine (PVRV; Verorab) and the human diploid cell vaccine (HDCV; Imovax Rabies®).

Methods

This dual-center, modified, double-blind, phase 3 study evaluated the immunogenic non-inferiority and safety of PVRV-NG2 with and without concomitant intramuscular human rabies immunoglobulin (HRIG) versus PVRV + HRIG and HDCV + HRIG in a simulated post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) regimen. Healthy adults ≥18 years old (N = 640) were randomized 3:1:1:1 to PVRV-NG2 + HRIG, PVRV + HRIG, HDCV + HRIG, or PVRV-NG2 alone (administered as single vaccine injections on days [D] 0, D3, D7, D14, and 28, with HRIG on D0 in applicable groups). Rabies virus neutralizing antibodies (RVNA) titers were assessed pre- (D0) and post-vaccination (D14, D28, and D42) using the rapid fluorescent focus inhibition test. Non-inferiority, based on the proportion of participants achieving RVNA titers ≥0.5 IU/mL (primary objective), was demonstrated if the lower limit of the 95% CI of the difference in proportions between PVRV-NG2 + HRIG and PVRV + HRIG/HDCV + HRIG was >−5% at D28. Safety was assessed up to 6 months after the last injection.

Results

Non-inferiority of PVRV-NG2 + HRIG compared with PVRV + HRIG and HDCV + HRIG was demonstrated. Nearly all participants (99.6%, PVRV-NG2 + HRIG; 100%, PVRV + HRIG; 98.7%, HDCV + HRIG; 100%, PVRV-NG2 alone) achieved RVNA titers ≥0.5 IU/mL at D28. Geometric mean titers were similar between groups with concomitant HRIG administration at all time points. Safety profiles were similar between PVRV-NG2 and comparator vaccines.

Conclusions

In a simulated PEP setting, PVRV-NG2 + HRIG showed comparable immunogenicity and safety to current standard-of-care vaccines.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT03965962.
Simulation-based learning in nephrology
Authors: Maisons Valentin , Lanot Antoine , Luque Yosu , Sautenet Benedicte , Esteve Emmanuel , Guillouet Erwan , François Hélène , Bobot Mickaël
Published: March 2024

Simulation is a technique to replace and amplify real experiences with guided ones that evoke or replicate substantial aspects of the real world in a fully interactive fashion. In nephrology (a particularly complex specialty), simulation can be used by patients, nurses, residents, and attending physicians alike. It allows one to learn techniques outside the stressful environment of care such as central venous catheter placement, arteriovenous fistula management, learning about peritoneal dialysis, or performing a kidney biopsy. Serious games and virtual reality are emerging methods that show promise. Simulation could also be important in relational aspects of working in a team or with the patient. The development of simulation as a teaching tool in nephrology allows for maintaining high-quality training for residents, tailored to their future practice, and minimizing risks for patients. Additionally, this education helps nephrologists maintain mastery of technical procedures, making the specialty attractive to younger generations. Unfortunately, the inclusion of simulation training programmes faces occasional logistical or funding limitations that universities must overcome with the assistance and innovation of teaching nephrologists. The impact of simulation-based teaching on clinical outcomes needs to be investigated in clinical studies.