bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Performance of the Upgraded Mid-infrared Spectrometer and Imager (MIRSI) on the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility
Authors: Hora Joseph L. , Trilling David E. , López-Oquendo Andy J. , Smith Howard A. , Mommert Michael , Moskovitz Nicholas , Foster Chris , Connelley Michael S. , Lockhart Charles , Rayner John T. , Bus Schelte J. , Watanabe Darryl , Bergknut Lars , Bonnet Morgan , Tokunaga Alan
Published: October 2024

We describe the new design and current performance of the Mid-InfraRed Spectrometer and Imager (MIRSI) on the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility (IRTF). The system has been converted from a liquid nitrogen/liquid helium cryogen system to one that uses a closed-cycle cooler, which allows it to be kept on the telescope at operating temperature and available for observing on short notice, requiring less effort by the telescope operators and day crew to maintain operating temperature. Several other enhancements have been completed, including new detector readout electronics, an IRTF-style standard instrument user interface, new stepper motor driver electronics, and an optical camera that views the same field as the mid-IR instrument using a cold dichroic mirror, allowing for guiding and/or simultaneous optical imaging. The instrument performance is presented, both with an engineering-grade array used from 2021 to 2023, and a science-grade array installed in the fall of 2023. Some sample astronomical results are also shown. The upgraded MIRSI is a facility instrument at the IRTF available to all users.
Prediction of performance and turbulence in ITER burning plasmas via nonlinear gyrokinetic profile prediction
Authors: Howard N.T. , Rodriguez-Fernandez P. , Holland C. , Candy J.
Published: October 2024

Burning plasma performance, transport, and the effect of hydrogen isotope (H, D, D-T fuel mix) on confinement has been predicted for ITER baseline scenario (IBS) conditions using nonlinear gyrokinetic profile predictions. Accelerated by surrogate modeling (Rodriguez-Fernandez et al 2022 Nucl. Fusion
62 076036), high fidelity, nonlinear gyrokinetic simulations performed with the CGYRO code (Candy et al 2016 J. Comput. Phys.
324 73), were used to predict profiles of Ti
, Te
, and ne
while including the effects of alpha heating, auxiliary power (NBI + ECH), collisional energy exchange, and radiation losses inside of

r

/

a

= 0.9. Predicted profiles and resulting energy confinement are found to produce fusion power and gain that are approximately consistent with mission goals (

P
fusion

=
500

MW at Q = 10) for the baseline scenario and exhibit energy confinement that is within 1σ of the H-mode energy confinement scaling. The power of the surrogate modeling technique is demonstrated through the prediction of alternative ITER scenarios with reduced computational cost. These scenarios include conditions with maximized fusion gain and an investigation of potential resonant magnetic perturbation (RMP) effects on performance with a minimal number of gyrokinetic profile iterations required (3–6). These predictions highlight the stiff ITG nature of the core turbulence predicted in the ITER baseline and demonstrate that

Q
>

17 conditions may be accessible by reducing auxiliary input power while operating in IBS conditions. Prediction of full kinetic profiles allowed for the projection of hydrogen isotope effects around ITER baseline conditions. The gyrokinetic fuel ion species was varied from H, D, and 50/50 D-T and kinetic profiles were predicted. Results indicate that a weak or negligible isotope effect will be observed to arise from core turbulence in IBS conditions. The resulting energy confinement, turbulence, and density peaking, and the implications for ITER operations will be discussed.
Finite Element Analysis of the Stresses Induced in Dilution Tube Made of High Resistance Alloy
Authors: Manjunatha C J , Bino Prince Raja D , Suresh C
Published: October 2024

This paper presents a finite element analysis of the stresses induced in a dilution tube made of a high- resistance alloy. The dilution tube is a crucial component in the combustion chamber of an aircraft engine, where it serves to create a uniform mixture for combustion by diluting the pressurised atomized air. The dilution tube is manufactured through a five-stage drawing process, each consisting of tube drawing followed by heat treatment. The primary objective of the study is to model the dilution tube according to specification and analyse the stress and strain induced at each stage of the drawing process. The analysis is conducted using the finite element solver. The study considers the impact of temperature on the dilution tube. The results of the analysis provide valuable insights into the performance of the dilution tube under different conditions and can inform design and optimisation efforts
Simulation of variable thickness aluminum alloy plate casting
Authors: Reddy G. S. , Hafeez Md.
Published: October 2024

The simulation of variable thickness aluminum alloy plate casting is investigated to understand the solidification process and mitigate macro shrinkage in castings. Aluminium alloys offer versatile properties suitable for diverse applications, gaining prominence, especially in electric vehicle manufacturing. Incorporating rare earth elements like Nd into aluminum alloys enhances corrosion resistance, while grain refinement treatments further augment this attribute. This study utilizes sand molds with varying thicknesses to cast Al-13%Si alloy into variable-thickness plate casting. Simulation outcomes reveal the absence of shrinkage porosity, with the last solidification events occurring in risers and sprue. Silicon’s role in reducing shrinkage porosity is highlighted, alongside advancements in grain refinement techniques for enhanced mechanical properties. The temperature distribution and cooling curves affirm directional solidification, aligning with desired temperature gradients. The manuscript underscores the dependence of simulation results on quality input data, emphasizing the critical role of temperature-dependent properties and initial boundary conditions. The continuous audit of simulation process data, focusing on fundamentals such as turbulence, modulus ratios, and directional solidification, is identified as essential for refining predictive models. This study contributes to the continuous improvement philosophy in manufacturing by providing insights into optimizing casting processes through simulations. By bridging the gap between simulation and real-world outcomes, this research enhances the reliability and applicability of solidification models, paving the way for advancements in aluminum alloy casting simulations. Notably, the automotive industry’s shift towards aluminum components underscores the importance of these findings in manufacturing practices.
Design of LCL type filter based on single-phase grid-connected inverter
Authors: Xu Jie , Zhang Haiyan
Published: October 2024

The grid-connected inverter adopts an LCL output filter, which has advantages such as low switching frequency and low output current harmonics. Compared with traditional L-type or LC-type filters, it has significant advantages. This article investigates a dual closed-loop current control strategy for LCL filters that are prone to output oscillations. By analyzing the dual closed-loop current control strategy selected in this article, a comparative analysis, calculation, and value selection of the advantages and disadvantages of the L-type, LC-type, and LCL filters are conducted. Finally, the values of each parameter of the filter are determined, and the single-phase grid-connected inverter designed is simulated on the MATLAB/SIMULINK simulation platform to demonstrate the feasibility of the selected control strategy. The established single-phase grid-connected inverter can smoothly achieve grid-connected operation and meet the required requirements.
Parameter determination and analysis of first-order gaussian-markov error model based on smartphone barometer
Authors: Zhou Peng , Liu Kai , Sheng Menggang , Zhou Chao
Published: October 2024

The measurement error of the barometer equipped in smartphones is commonly modeled as a first-order Gaussian-Markov (GM) model, with the time constant and noise variance being two important parameters for establishing the model. In this paper, the time constant and variance of the barometer sensor in smartphones were determined by the Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) and the autocorrelation function, and the time constant is applied to the barometer calibration to verify the rationality of the parameters. The barometric altimeter calibration utilizes GPS altitude information as an aid, and the fusion algorithm adopts Kalman filtering. A set of different time constants was established to validate the time constant obtained through autocorrelation analysis. The experimental results indicate that this parameter is reasonable and reliable, providing an experimental basis and research foundation for the parameter selection of the first-order GM model for smartphone barometric pressure sensors.
Overload suppression technology for traction transformers based on railway static power conditioner
Authors: Zeng Bingzi , Tian Mingxing , Long Zhenhua
Published: October 2024

A scheme is proposed to use a Railway Static Power Conditioner (RPC) to dynamically balance phase-to-phase active power and reduce the overload frequency of traction transformers in response to frequent overload alarms and trips in some substations of the Lanxin Line. Firstly, on-site research on the daily load situation and overload situation of a V/v connection traction substation on the Lanxin Line was conducted in the past two years, using Origin to process the collected data and obtain the distribution patterns of power, voltage, etc., in the substation; Secondly, a control strategy and simulation model for RPC under extreme load current flow in the power supply arm are proposed in MATLAB/Simulink. The response effect and self-characteristics of parallel RPC under different load changes are simulated. Based on the assessment criteria of whether the transformer has experienced overload, simulation results show that after the RPC is put into operation, the three-phase grid side current is balanced, and under the same load conditions, the overload alarm and trip frequency are significantly reduced. The simulation results have verified that the installation of RPC can achieve power balance between phases on the feeder side, effectively improve the three-phase power quality on the grid side, reduce the overload of traction transformers, and improve the utilization rate of existing traction transformers.
A high gain and low noise instrument amplifier
Authors: Li Mengyao , Wu Chuanqi , Shang Yuzhe , Zhou Jian , Wei Qiao , Tang Xinggang
Published: October 2024

This paper presents a 2-op-topology instrument amplifier with high gain and low noise. Adopting a low-power chopping amplification technology that does not require additional LPF, the maximum equivalent input noise at a unit gain is only 9.38 NV/√ Hz. The Loop gain is up to 170 dB by using the gain-boosting technology. It can achieve 1 to 32 times adjustable gain and effectively drive 24-bit ADC. It is suitable for various fields such as biomedical and brain-computer neurology that require weak signal acquisition and amplification systems.
Method of mechanical state diagnosis of high-voltage circuit breakers based on SSA-VMD and PSO-SVM
Authors: Qi Runze , Wang Zhijuan , Peng Bohao , Wei Binbin , Cao Shi , Liu Qinzhe
Published: October 2024

This paper researches the fault diagnosis of 40.5 kV porcelain-column circuit breakers by using the SSA-VMD-based feature extraction method and PSO-SVM-based fault recognition analysis. To avoid insufficient signal decomposition or mode mixing caused by empirically determining the parameter K of variational mode decomposition, the Sparrow optimization algorithm is employed to determine an appropriate number of decomposition modes, and VMD is used to decompose vibration signals and extract signal features. Particle swarm optimization is utilized to optimize the selection of parameters for the support vector machine. MATLAB analysis results demonstrate that the PSO-SVM method shows a significant improvement in recognition accuracy compared to traditional SVM methods. The proposed approach exhibits good performance in fault diagnosis, avoiding issues related to inappropriate algorithm parameter selection that could lead to decreased recognition accuracy. This study provides reliable technical means and theoretical support for health monitoring and maintenance of power equipment.
Study on the impact of disorganized charging of scaled electric vehicles connected to the distribution network
Authors: Li Yuting , Shu Jiao , Xie Peng , Liu Hua , Long Yu , Jiang Tao , Zheng Chun , Luo Luping , Ma Rui , Liu Tianyi
Published: October 2024

Aiming at the stochasticity of electric vehicle user charging, an electric vehicle time distribution model is established. Based on the IEEE33 distribution system, the Monte Carlo method is used to simulate the scaled electric vehicle disordered charging access to the distribution network and to study the change of the total system network loss and the mean value of the voltage specification when charging random loads access to different nodes. Next, the three-phase unbalanced metrics are observed at the EV access nodes. The results show that the charging load access to different distribution network nodes has an obvious impact on power quality. Finally, further EV grid optimization measures are given.
Research on the gap value and optimization of 500 kV large span tower head
Authors: Liu Chunlin , Wang Chaoqun , Zhang Junfeng , Jin Miao , Bao Hua , Zhu Bo , Lin Xiaohan , Bai Hao
Published: October 2024

The large span section is the weak link of the transmission line, to optimize the tower head design of a large span tower, this paper considers the influence of different factors on the simulation results and proposes a lightning gap value and optimization scheme of the tower head. Firstly, according to the design specification and the actual space requirements of the tower, the value of the gap between the insulator and the air is analyzed. Then, the simulation model based on the leader development method is established by ATP-EMTP. According to the characteristics of a high tower and large span in a large span section, the improved multi-wave impedance model is used to calculate the lightning withstand level and tripping rate of back striking and shielding failure in a large span section. The results show that the lightning arrester installed on the straight tower will greatly improve the lightning resistance performance of the line, so that the lightning trip-out rate is reduced by 40.75 %, and the lightning overvoltage air gap at the tower head can be reduced by 1 m. At this time, the safe operation period is 89 years, which is conducive to reducing the height of the tower head and saving the project cost.
Research on reliable data communication optimization strategy for energy storage power stations considering link-service importance
Authors: Lin Weiwei , Xu Zhiqiang , Li Qin , Zhang Huifang , Wang Yong , He Yun
Published: October 2024

Aiming at the reliability of large-capacity data transmission of energy storage power stations, an optimization strategy for reliable data communication of energy storage power stations considering the importance of link service is proposed. Firstly, a link risk degree equilibrium optimization model is constructed based on the data communication network of energy storage power stations, and business importance classification is considered. Then, based on considering the link risk degree of the importance of the service, a data communication optimization method is proposed, which takes the minimum network risk balance as the optimization goal, the service transmission delay, and the link bandwidth occupied by the service as the constraints. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed formula is verified by experiments. Compared with the comparative method, this method considers the reliability of hierarchical business transmission while meeting latency and bandwidth requirements. It can achieve effective link risk balance, improving the reliability of high-capacity data transmission in energy storage power stations.
A high integration side-fed rectangular microstrip antenna based on the sapphire substrate
Authors: Liu Ying , Zhou Yang
Published: October 2024

The sapphire substrate has advantages such as high dielectric constant and low loss, excellent thermal stability, outstanding chemical stability, excellent mechanical properties, and optical transparency. This paper studied a high integration feedback rectangular microstrip antenna based on a sapphire substrate, replacing traditional FR4 substrates and PCBs, among other dielectrics, greatly enhancing the performance of the newly designed side-fed rectangular microstrip antenna in terms of integration, intelligent application, and adaptability. The designed high integration feedback rectangular microstrip antenna has a resonant frequency of 2.4 GHz, with the antenna size reduced by 50%, achieving good antenna radiation performance, which has a wide range of applications across various industries and technologies due to their compact size, lightweight, ease of fabrication, and versatility.
Taguchi-based grey relational analysis for multi-response optimization of the characteristics of HRAMMCs reinforced with agro-waste and SiC produced by ultrasonic-assisted bottom pour two-stage stir casting
Authors: Tenali Nagaraju , Ganesan G , Babu P Ravindra
Published: October 2024

This study aims to examine the impact of agricultural waste materials—specifically silicon carbide (SiC) and palm sprout shell ash (PSSA)—on the mechanical properties, including density, porosity, tensile strength, compression strength, impact strength, and hardness, as well as the tribological behavior of Al-Cu-Mg alloy-based HRAMMCs. Parametric optimization was conducted on HRAMMCs to predict the effect of input constraints on the performance of the composite, considering the weight percentage of SiC, PSSA, and ultrasonic-assisted stirring time. Taguchi’s L9 orthogonal array was used for the design of experiments (DOE), and the composites were fabricated accordingly. Their physical, mechanical, and tribological properties were determined experimentally. Taguchi-based Grey Relational Analysis for multi-optimization highlighted the potential of the HRAMMCs, with a density of 2.545 g cm−3, porosity of 5.810%, ultimate tensile strength of 341 MPa, flexural strength of 321 MPa, compressive strength of 394.016 MPa, Vickers hardness of 136.883 HV, wear rate of 6.88E-12 m3 m−1, and a coefficient of friction of 0.397. ANOVA shows that the developed mathematical model is a better fit for examining the impact of various factors on the GRG of and corresponding properties of developed HRAMMCs, Indicating the R2 value of the developed model is 99.33% (0.9933). The 2 wt% SiC, 2 wt% PSSA, and a stirring time of 7 min are optimal parameters for the present HRAMMCS; to reduce porosity, wear loss, and the coefficient of friction while increasing, ultimate tensile strength, compressive strength, and Vickers microhardness. Moreover, the examination of the tensile and impact fracture surfaces and worn surfaces was carried out using SEM analysis of the alloy and composite produced under the optimal experimental conditions. The results of the fracture surface analysis indicated that the failure of both tensile and impact fractures was due to an amalgamation of ductile and brittle behaviors. The composites exhibited lower ductility than that of the base alloys. A study of the wear mechanism revealed that it was a mixture of adhesive and abrasive wear mechanisms. The SiC and PSSA ceramic reinforcements demonstrate higher hardness compared to the alloy, which restricts the fluid-like movement of the matrix. When these reinforcements were added to the alloy, they substantially decreased the occurrence of severe delamination and the formation of adhesive wear particles.
Self-exothermic reaction behavior and pore structures of Ni-Al intermetallics with more than 70% porosity
Authors: Zhao Yuming , Jiao Xinyang , Gao Qing , Zhang Yu , Feng Haibing
Published: October 2024

In this study, high-porosity Ni-Al alloys with complete shape and controllable pore structures were prepared by combining the self-exothermic reaction with the space holder method. The observations show that porous Ni-Al sintered discs appeared to melt and deform after a violent reaction without adding space holder particles. The link between the volume content of urea particles and macroscopic morphology, combustion behavior, phase composition and pore structures of porous Ni-Al compounds were studied. The space holder pores acts as a heat absorber, greatly increasing the open porosity to 76.0% when adding 50 vol% urea particles. This leachable space holder method can be an effective strategy to regulate the sample shape and pore characteristics of porous Al-containing intermetallics.
Characterization of brass mesh bolus for electron beam therapy
Authors: Lim Sara N , Sohn James J , Klawikowski Slade J , Hayes John P , Donnelly Eric , Das Indra J
Published: October 2024

Purpose. Bolus is often required for targets close to or on skin surface, however, standard bolus on complex surfaces can result in air gaps that compromise dosimetry. Brass mesh boluses (RPD, Inc., Albertville, MN) are designed to conform to the patient’s surface and reduce air gaps. While they have been well characterized for their use with photons, minimal characterization exists in literature for their use with electrons. Methods and materials. Dosimetric characteristics of brass mesh bolus was investigated for use with 6, 9 and 12 MeV electrons using a 10 × 10 cm2 applicator on standard multi-energy LINAC. Measurements for bolus equivalence and percentage depth doses (PDDs) under brass mesh, as well as surface dose measurements were performed on solid water and a 3D printed resin breast phantom (Anycubic Photon MonoX, Shenzhen, China) using Markus® parallel-plate ionization chamber (Model 34045, PTW Freiburg, Germany), thermoluminescent detectors (TLD) and EBRT film. After obtaining surface dose measurements, these were compared to dose calculated on the Pinnacle3 treatment planning system (TPS, 16.2, Koninklijke Philips N.V.). Results. Measurements of surface dose under brass mesh showed consistently higher dose than without bolus, confirming that brass mesh can increase the PDD at surface up to ∼ 94% of dose at dmax, depending on incident electron energy. This increase is equivalent to using ∼ 7.2 mm water equivalent bolus for 6 MeV, ∼ 3.6 mm for 9 MeV and ∼ 2.2 mm bolus for 12 MeV electrons. TPS results showed close agreement with in-vivo measurements, confirming the potential for brass mesh as bolus for electron irradiation, provided blousing effect is correctly modelled. Conclusions. To increase electron surface dose, a brass mesh can be used with equivalent effect of water-density bolus varying with electron energy. Proper implementation could allow for ease of treatment, as well as increase bolus conformality in electron-only plans.
Wellposedness of Second Order Master Equations for Mean Field Games with Nonsmooth Data
Authors: Mou Chenchen , Zhang Jianfeng
Published: October 2024

In this paper we study second order master equations arising from mean field games with common noise over arbitrary time duration. A classical solution typically requires the monotonicity condition (or small time duration) and sufficiently smooth data. While keeping the monotonicity condition, our goal is to relax the regularity of the data, which is an open problem in the literature. In particular, we do not require any differentiability in terms of the measures, which prevents us from obtaining classical solutions. We shall propose three weaker notions of solutions, named as good solutions, weak solutions, and weak-viscosity solutions, respectively, and establish the wellposedness of the master equation under all three notions. We emphasize that, due to the game nature, one cannot expect comparison principle even for classical solutions. The key for the global (in time) wellposedness is the uniform a priori estimate for the Lipschitz continuity of the solution in the measures. The monotonicity condition is crucial for this uniform estimate and thus is crucial for the existence of the global solution, but is not needed for the uniqueness in such Lipschitz class. To facilitate our analysis, we construct a smooth mollifier for functions on Wasserstein space, which is new in the literature and is interesting in its own right.

Following the same approach of our wellposedness results, we prove the convergence of the Nash system, a high dimensional system of PDEs arising from the corresponding

N
N

-player game, under mild regularity requirements. We shall also prove a propagation of chaos property for the associated optimal trajectories.
A multi-modality and multi-granularity collaborative learning framework for identifying spatial domains and spatially variable genes
Authors: Liang Xiao , Liu Pei , Xue Li , Chen Baiyun , Liu Wei , Shi Wanwan , Wang Yongwang , Chen Xiangtao , Luo Jiawei
Published: October 2024

Motivation

Recent advances in spatial transcriptomics technologies have provided multi-modality data integrating gene expression, spatial context, and histological images. Accurately identifying spatial domains and spatially variable genes is crucial for understanding tissue structures and biological functions. However, effectively combining multi-modality data to identify spatial domains and determining SVGs closely related to these spatial domains remains a challenge.

Results

In this study, we propose spatial transcriptomics multi-modality and multi-granularity collaborative learning (spaMMCL). For detecting spatial domains, spaMMCL mitigates the adverse effects of modality bias by masking portions of gene expression data, integrates gene and image features using a shared graph convolutional network, and employs graph self-supervised learning to deal with noise from feature fusion. Simultaneously, based on the identified spatial domains, spaMMCL integrates various strategies to detect potential SVGs at different granularities, enhancing their reliability and biological significance. Experimental results demonstrate that spaMMCL substantially improves the identification of spatial domains and SVGs.

Availability and implementation

The code and data of spaMMCL are available on Github: Https://github.com/liangxiao-cs/spaMMCL.
Drivers of continuous colour variation in the Madeiran wall lizard (Teira dugesii)
Authors: Aguilar Prem , Andrade Pedro , Dellinger Thomas , Carretero Miguel Ángel , Pérez i de Lanuza Guillem
Published: October 2024

Animal coloration is often shaped by a myriad of factors that lead to differences in colour through changes in the chromatophores. Depending on how this variation is partitioned, coloration is often categorized as continuous or polymorphic. However, the boundaries between these two categories are not always clear. Here, we investigated whether the ventral coloration of the Madeiran wall lizard (Teira dugesii) varies continuously or corresponds to discrete colour morphs, via by-eye colour classification and visual modelling. By combining these two approaches, we show that T. dugesii coloration varies continuously and that colour classifications based on anthropomorphic approaches alone are ill suited to describe animal coloration. We also tested the influence of size, body condition, and sex as possible factors that might explain differences in T. dugesii coloration. We found that body condition, and especially size and sex, explain a great proportion of the variability observed in this species. These differences point to an effect of ontogeny, which might play a major role in colour development owing to the longevity of this species. Moreover, the sexual dichromatism that this species shows is indicative of an effect of sexual selection on coloration, perhaps explained by differences in circulating hormones.
Real-world evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of dupilumab in bullous pemphigoid: an ambispective multicentre case series
Authors: Planella-Fontanillas Nidia , Bosch-Amate Xavier , Jiménez Antón Alicia , Moreno-Vílchez Carlos , Guerrero María Gamo , Blanes Martínez María del Mar , Ballester Martínez María Asunción , Bassas-Freixas Patricia , Castaño Fernández Juan Luis , Estébanez Corrales Andrea , Suarez Fernández Ricardo , Santos Alarcón Sergio , Alonso Ana Bauzá , Torrent Marina , Ballano Ruiz Adrian , Collantes Rodríguez Cristina , España Agustín , Fonseca Capdevila Eduardo , Faure Inmaculada Gil , Hernández Fernández Carlos Pelayo , Melgosa Ramos Francisco Javier , Spertino Jorge , Zaragoza Ninet Violeta , Armillas Lucia , Bielsa Isabel , Carrera Cristina , Esquius Rafat Mireia , Fulgencio Barbarin Jon , Fernandez Vela Javier , Lova Navarro Miguel , Martín Callizo Clara , Martín-Sala Sara , Ojeda Rosa , Amer Maria Elisabet Parera , Puigdollers Anna Sánchez , Pujol Ramon M , Podlipnik Sebastian , Mascaró José Manuel , Curto-Barredo Laia
Published: October 2024

Background

Bullous pemphigoid (BP) affects elderly individuals with multiple comorbidities, making conventional treatments unsuitable.

Objectives

Evaluate the effectiveness and safety of dupilumab in the treatment of BP.

Methods

A multicentre ambispective cohort study was conducted across 34 hospitals. Patients with BP treated with dupilumab were included. Most of the patients (97.1%) received an initial 600-mg dose followed by 300 mg every 2 weeks. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients achieving complete remission (CR) within 4 weeks, defined as an Investigator’s Global Assessment score of 0 or 1. CR at weeks 16, 24 and 52, adverse events (AEs), reductions in Peak Pruritus Numerical Rating Scale (PP-NRS) and systemic glucocorticoid use were also assessed.

Results

The study included 103 patients with a median age of 77.3 years; 58.3% were male. CR was achieved by 53.4% within 4 weeks and 95.7% by week 52. The PP-NRS score reduced by 70.0% by week 4 and was completely controlled by week 24. Thirteen patients presented with AEs, most of which were mild. Systemic glucocorticoid use reduced by 82.1% by week 52. Shorter disease duration and exclusive cutaneous involvement predicted better response at 16 weeks. No differences in response rates to dupilumab were observed between drug-associated BP and idiopathic cases. No significant difference in response rates was observed between patients treated with dupilumab in monotherapy and those receiving dupilumab with concomitant treatments.

Conclusions

Dupilumab is effective, rapid and safe in managing BP, reducing the need for corticosteroids and other treatments. Early initiation and exclusive skin involvement predict better outcomes.
Motor compensation in Parkinson’s disease: an empirical challenge with clinical implications
Authors: Ballanger Bénédicte , Boulinguez Philippe
Published: October 2024

This scientific commentary refers to ‘Neurophysiological markers of motor compensatory mechanisms in early Parkinson’s disease’ by Passaretti et al. (https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/awae210).
Vacuum sealing drainage successfully treated refractory sclerosing panniculitis
Authors: Zhang Yuezhu , Wu Wenjie , Shu Yanjia , Su Qianya , Wang Fei , Han Bing
Published: October 2024

Here, we describe a patient with refractory sclerosing panniculitis with a long disease course who was successfully treated using vacuum sealing drainage (VSD). As demonstrated in this patient, VSD has a favourable therapeutic effect on sclerosing panniculitis. It is reasonable to consider that VSD represents a safe and effective technique for the treatment of sclerosing panniculitis.
P2Y12 receptor ligands enable design of fluorescent imaging probes for microglia
Authors: Nonaka Hiroshi , Wang Mengchu , Hamachi Itaru
Published: October 2024

Microglia, the resident macrophages of the brain, have recently been revealed to be essential in regulating brain functions. However, there are limited methods that allow fluorescence labeling of microglia for their functional analysis. Herein, we demonstrate that a ligand for P2Y12 receptors, which is specifically expressed in microglia in the brain, can be leveraged for rational design of microglia imaging probes. Our design strategy is flexible as it can tune the fluorescence wavelength, affording new fluorescent probes of microglia.
Facilitators and barriers to perform physical activity in patients post-heart transplantation: a qualitative study
Authors: Klompstra Leonie , Perkïo Kato Naoko , Almenar-Bonet Luis , Cabanillas-García Juan Luis , Del Brío-Alonso Irene , Moreno-Segura Noemí , Sánchez-Gómez María Cruz , López-Vilella Raquel , Marques-Sule Elena
Published: October 2024

Aims

Most patients experience barriers for becoming physical active post-heart transplantation. Therefore, identifying barriers and facilitators can help healthcare professionals in developing physical activity programmes. This study aimed to explore the physical activity experiences, perceived barriers, and facilitators to perform physical activity of patients’ post-heart transplantation.

Methods and results

A qualitative study was carried out using in-depth semi-structured interviews on 24 patients post-heart transplantation from October to December 2022. The data were analysed using an inductive strategy for finding emerging themes. NVivo 12.0 software was used to analyse the data. The physical activity experiences included that (i) patients felt that they had to adapt to a new situation after the heart transplantation, (ii) walking was a popular physical activity preferably outdoors, (iii) participants preferred to perform physical activity regularly with others, and (iv) they felt better since they perform physical activity. The facilitators were: (i) desire to live; (ii) experiencing physical benefits; (iii) being physically active with others; (iv) use of mobility assistive devices resources. The barriers were: (i) feeling not being able to perform former physical activity; (ii) complications and experiencing symptoms post-heart transplantation; (iii) unfavourable climate.

Conclusion

Patients post-heart transplantation has various facilitators influencing their post-transplant experience to perform physical activity. Key facilitators include the desire to live, physical benefits, social activity, and external support. Yet, they also face barriers like lost abilities, post-transplant complications, and environmental challenges.
Consumption of aspartame and risk of breast cancer in the Nurses’ Health Studies
Authors: Romanos-Nanclares Andrea , Schernhammer Eva , Willett Walter C , Holmes Michelle D , Chen Wendy Y , Eliassen A Heather
Published: October 2024

Debate persists regarding the potential carcinogenicity of aspartame, as suggested by experimental studies. Therefore, we prospectively evaluated whether aspartame consumption is associated with breast cancer risk in the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS) and NHS II. We used Cox models to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). During nearly 30 years of follow-up, with 4 assessments of intake per year, we documented 10 814 invasive breast cancer cases. Overall, there was no association between aspartame consumption and invasive breast cancer risk (HR per 200 mg/d [approximately one 12-oz serving of diet soda] = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.98 to 1.03). We observed similar lack of associations after excluding cases occurring in the first 10 years of follow-up (n = 3125) (HR per 200 mg/d = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.97 to 1.03). In these cohorts, aspartame consumption did not increase breast cancer risk.
Networked privacy and its broader implications
Authors: Humphreys Lee , Nguyen Rosie
Published: October 2024

In this article, we review Alice Marwick’s book, The Private is Political: Networked Privacy and Social Media, published by Yale University Press in 2023. In the book, Marwick argues that the digital nature of the social media landscape fundamentally changes contemporary notions of privacy. We trace three specific elements of her argument, namely: (1) the design of networked technologies to connect and leak, (2) the subsequent differential harms on those historically marginalized, and (3) the need to shift from individualized to more contextual and structural understandings of privacy. We discuss the implications of these arguments not just for privacy, but for expression. We describe the tensions around freedom of expressions and content moderation online. Finally, we conclude with a reflection on these arguments for academic expression given the socio-technological context in which we work and the differential harms that impact academics from historically marginalized communities. Building on Marwick’s arguments, we call for a social, contextual, and structural approach for responding to the targeted harassment of academics to protect and ensure academic freedom for all.
Presupposition Projection From ‘and’ vs. ‘or’: Experimental Data and Theoretical Implications
Authors: Kalomoiros Alexandros , Schwarz Florian
Published: October 2024

A core issue in presupposition theory concerns the potential role of linear order for projection. This paper presents experimental evidence that conjunction and disjunction differ precisely in this regard. Presuppositions project asymmetrically from conjunction: a presupposition in the first conjunct projects regardless of any information in the second conjunct that could be used to satisfy the presupposition, while a presupposition in the second conjunct can be ‘filtered’ by material in the first, so that it doesn’t project. We find no such asymmetry for disjunction, where presuppositions in both the first and the second disjunct can be filtered by information in the other disjunct. Theoretically, these results pose a challenge to traditional dynamic accounts, and also strongly argue against accounts that take all projection and filtering to be uniformly determined by linear order across connectives. Instead, they call for an account of projection that can differentiate between conjunction and disjunction by modulating the effects of linear order through proper consideration of the underlying truth conditions of each connective.
Production of mRNA lipid nanoparticles using advanced crossflow micromixing
Authors: Hussain Muattaz , Binici Burcu , O’Connor Liam , Perrie Yvonne
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) play a crucial role in RNA-based therapies, and their production is generally based on nanoprecipitation and coalescence of lipids around an RNA core. This study investigated crossflow micromixing to prepare LNPs across various mixing ratios and production speeds.

Methods

A range of LNPs were prepared using crossflow micromixing across production speeds of 10–500 ml/min, and their physico-chemical characteristics (size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and mRNA encapsulation), in vitro mRNA expression and in vitro efficacy (protein expression and antibody and cytokine responses).

Key findings

Our results demonstrate the reproducible production of mRNA–LNPs with controlled critical quality attributes, including high mRNA encapsulation from the initial screening scale through to GMP-scale production, where the same mixing ratio can be adopted across all product speeds from 30 to 500 ml/min used.

Conclusions

We confirm the applicability of stainless-steel crossflow membrane micromixing for the entire spectrum of mRNA–LNP production, ranging from initial discovery volumes to GMP-production scale.
A common femoral vein aneurysm diagnostic challenge: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Gemechu Melaku Teshale , Berhanu Dagim Leykun
Published: October 2024

Common femoral vein aneurysms are rare and they are often misdiagnosed as soft tissue masses or as hernias. In this case report, we review literature and describe a patient who presented with left inguinal mass associated with ipsilateral limb swelling. He was initially misdiagnosed as cystic adventitial disease of common femoral vein. Later, he underwent surgical exploration and found out to have common femoral vein aneurysm which was treated by aneurysmectomy and lateral venorrhaphy.
Tentative detection of cyclopropenylidene in comets
Authors: Chuang Yo-Ling , Kuan Yi-Jehng , Charnley Steven B
Published: October 2024

We report the tentative detection of the ring molecule cyclopropenylidene (c-C$_3$H$_2$) in cometary comae. We observed three short-period comets: 73P/Schwassmann–Wachmann 3, 17P/Holmes, 103P Hartley 2, and two Oort Cloud comets: C/2007 N3 (Lulin) and C/2012 F6 (Lemmon) with the Arizona Radio Observatory Submillimeter Telescope (SMT) and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA). We tentatively detected c-C$_3$H$_2$ in three of the comets, with molecule production rates in the range of $(0.2\!-\!3.8)\times 10^{25}$ molecules s$^{-1}$, and c-C$_3$H$_2$/H$_2$O mixing ratios of 0.01–0.19  per cent. Evidence from both the single-dish and interferometric data points to the presence of c-C$_3$H$_2$ being of a discrete transient nature and exhibiting an extended spatial distribution, indicating production from the decomposition of organic dust particles in the coma.
There is no place like home – finding birth radii of stars in the Milky Way
Authors: Lu Yuxi (Lucy) , Minchev Ivan , Buck Tobias , Khoperskov Sergey , Steinmetz Matthias , Libeskind Noam , Cescutti Gabriele , Freeman Ken C , Ratcliffe Bridget
Published: October 2024

Stars move away from their birthplaces over time via a process known as radial migration, which blurs chemo–kinematic relations used for reconstructing the Milky Way (MW) formation history. To understand the true time evolution of the MW, one needs to take into account the effects of this process. We show that stellar birth radii can be derived directly from the data with minimum prior assumptions on the Galactic enrichment history. This is done by first recovering the time evolution of the stellar birth metallicity gradient, $\mathrm{ d}\mathrm{[Fe/H]}(R, \tau)/\mathrm{ d}R$, through its inverse relation to the metallicity range as a function of age today, allowing us to place any star with age and metallicity measurements back to its birthplace, R$_b$. Applying our method to a large high-precision data set of MW disc subgiant stars, we find a steepening of the birth metallicity gradient from 11 to 8 Gyr ago, which coincides with the time of the last massive merger, Gaia–Sausage–Enceladus (GSE). This transition appears to play a major role in shaping both the age–metallicity relation and the bimodality in the [$\alpha$/Fe]–[Fe/H] plane. By dissecting the disc into mono-R$_b$ populations, clumps in the low-[$\alpha$/Fe] sequence appear, which are not seen in the total sample and coincide in time with known star-formation bursts, possibly associated with the Sagittarius Dwarf Galaxy. We estimated that the Sun was born at $4.5\pm 0.4$ kpc from the Galactic centre. Our R$_b$ estimates provide the missing piece needed to recover the Milky Way formation history.
SUPREM: an engineered non-site-specific m6A RNA methyltransferase with highly improved efficiency
Authors: Ochiai Yoshiki , Clifton Ben E , Le Coz Madeleine , Terenzio Marco , Laurino Paola
Published: October 2024

N 6-Methyladenine (m6A) RNA methylation plays a key role in RNA processing and translational regulation, influencing both normal physiological and pathological processes. Yet, current techniques for studying RNA methylation struggle to isolate the effects of individual m6A modifications. Engineering of RNA methyltransferases (RNA MTases) could enable development of improved synthetic biology tools to manipulate RNA methylation, but it is challenging due to limited understanding of structure–function relationships in RNA MTases. Herein, using ancestral sequence reconstruction, we explore the sequence space of the bacterial DNA methyltransferase EcoGII (M.EcoGII), a promising target for protein engineering due to its lack of sequence specificity and its residual activity on RNA. We thereby created an efficient non-specific RNA MTase termed SUPer RNA EcoGII Methyltransferase (SUPREM), which exhibits 8-fold higher expression levels, 7°C higher thermostability and 12-fold greater m6A RNA methylation activity compared with M.EcoGII. Immunofluorescent staining and quantitative liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) analysis confirmed SUPREM’s higher RNA methylation activity compared with M.EcoGII in mammalian cells. Additionally, Nanopore direct RNA sequencing highlighted that SUPREM is capable of methylating a larger number of RNA methylation sites than M.EcoGII. Through phylogenetic and mutational analysis, we identified a critical residue for the enhanced RNA methylation activity of SUPREM. Collectively, our findings indicate that SUPREM holds promise as a versatile tool for in vivo RNA methylation and labeling.
Structural and functional insights into the interaction between the bacteriophage T4 DNA processing proteins gp32 and Dda
Authors: He Xiaoping , Yun Mi-Kyung , Li Zhenmei , Waddell M Brett , Nourse Amanda , Churion Kelly A , Kreuzer Kenneth N , Byrd Alicia K , White Stephen W
Published: October 2024

Bacteriophage T4 is a classic model system for studying the mechanisms of DNA processing. A key protein in T4 DNA processing is the gp32 single-stranded DNA-binding protein. gp32 has two key functions: it binds cooperatively to single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) to protect it from nucleases and remove regions of secondary structure, and it recruits proteins to initiate DNA processes including replication and repair. Dda is a T4 helicase recruited by gp32, and we purified and crystallized a gp32–Dda–ssDNA complex. The low-resolution structure revealed how the C-terminus of gp32 engages Dda. Analytical ultracentrifugation analyses were consistent with the crystal structure. An optimal Dda binding peptide from the gp32 C-terminus was identified using surface plasmon resonance. The crystal structure of the Dda–peptide complex was consistent with the corresponding interaction in the gp32–Dda–ssDNA structure. A Dda-dependent DNA unwinding assay supported the structural conclusions and confirmed that the bound gp32 sequesters the ssDNA generated by Dda. The structure of the gp32–Dda–ssDNA complex, together with the known structure of the gp32 body, reveals the entire ssDNA binding surface of gp32. gp32–Dda–ssDNA complexes in the crystal are connected by the N-terminal region of one gp32 binding to an adjacent gp32, and this provides key insights into this interaction.