bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Information Embedding in Additively Manufactured Parts Through Printing Speed Control
Authors: ElSayed Karim A. , Panchal Jitesh H.
Published: March 2024

Information lithography in manufacturing is a broad set of techniques for encoding sequences of bits as physical or behavioral features in physical parts. It is an effective approach for part traceability and anti-counterfeiting. Several techniques have recently been proposed for embedding 2D codes in 3D printed parts by local control of geometry or material. This paper presents an approach to embed and retrieve information in additive manufacturing (AM) parts by controlling the printing process parameters. The approach leverages variations in printing speed to encode information on the surface of AM parts. Optical imaging devices, such as 2D scanners and optical profilometers, are employed to read the embedded information, enabling the capture of local height differences on the part surfaces that embody 2D codes such as QR codes. The retrieved information is processed using computer vision techniques such as morphological segmentation and binary classification. First, the impact of variations in the encoding parameters on the information retrieval accuracy is characterized. Then, the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed scheme are demonstrated through experimental results, showcasing a high accuracy in retrieving encoded messages and successfully distinguishing subtle surface features resulting from varying printing speeds. The proposed approach offers an inexpensive and efficient method for information lithography, allowing for the secure embedding of information, e.g., serial numbers and watermarks, while addressing counterfeiting and security concerns in diverse industries.
Transferability Analysis of Data-Driven Additive Manufacturing Knowledge: A Case Study Between Powder Bed Fusion and Directed Energy Deposition
Authors: Safdar Mutahar , Xie Jiarui , Ko Hyunwoong , Lu Yan , Lamouche Guy , Zhao Yaoyao Fiona
Published: March 2024

Data-driven research in additive manufacturing (AM) has gained significant success in recent years. This has led to a plethora of scientific literature emerging. The knowledge in these works consists of AM and artificial intelligence (AI) contexts that haven't been mined and formalized in an integrated way. Moreover, no tools or guidelines exist to support data-driven knowledge transfer from one context to another. As a result, data-driven solutions using specific AI techniques are being developed and validated only for specific AM process technologies. There is a potential to exploit the inherent similarities across various AM technologies and adapt the existing solutions from one process or problem to another using AI, such as transfer learning (TL). We propose a three-step knowledge transferability analysis framework in AM to support data-driven AM knowledge transfer. As a prerequisite to transferability analysis, AM knowledge is featured into identified knowledge components. The framework consists of pre-transfer, transfer, and post-transfer steps to accomplish knowledge transfer. A case study is conducted between two flagship metal AM processes: laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) and directed energy deposition (DED). The relatively mature LPBF is the source while the less developed DED is the target. We show successful transfer at different levels of the data-driven solution, including data representation, model architecture, and model parameters. The pipeline of AM knowledge transfer can be automated in the future to allow efficient cross-context or cross-process knowledge exchange.
Impact of Flow Unsteadiness on Turbine Airfoil Heat Transfer via Streaming
Authors: Agarwal Tapish , Jacobi Ian , Cukurel Beni
Published: March 2024

Thermal management of turbine airfoils is a critical design consideration, but the impact of unsteadiness on heat transfer of attached flow regions has received less attention in the literature. When turbine surfaces are subjected to unsteady zero-mean flow fluctuations, either naturally or artificially, the mean velocity around them is modified due to a nonlinear interaction of fluctuations, known as streaming. In this numerical study, we examine the effect of streaming on heat transfer and skin friction in a simplified model of the flow over a turbine blade. Both heat transfer and skin friction modifications were found to strongly depend on the amplitude and wave speed of the unsteady flow perturbations. Over a wide range of disturbance parameters, skin friction modification was negligible, but a significant effect on heat transfer due to streaming was identified. Moreover, the impact of favorable pressure gradients, which are typical for turbine airfoils, on the streaming phenomena was also considered, and it was found that flow regions of zero-pressure gradient produced the strongest amplification of heat transfer, although the effect of the pressure gradient varied with Strouhal number. Due to its significant effect on wall heat transfer, the streaming phenomenon should be taken into account during the design and measurement of the thermal properties of unsteady systems.
Generating functional for Green's functions of fluid-loaded structures
Authors: Photiadis Douglas M. , Villa Mauricio
Published: March 2024

A key step in applying the auxiliary superfield method to complex systems is the representation of the Green's function of the system as derivatives of a generating functional. This representation is known to be valid for Hermitian systems, but this precludes the application of the method to systems with fluid loading or damping. Here, it is demonstrated that the known representation continues to be valid for fluid-loaded and damped systems. Thus, the auxiliary superfield method may be applied to such systems.
Register transitions in an in vivo canine model as a function of intrinsic laryngeal muscle stimulation, fundamental frequency, and sound pressure level
Authors: Schlegel Patrick , Berry David A. , Moffatt Clare , Zhang Zhaoyan , Chhetri Dinesh K.
Published: March 2024

Phonatory instabilities and involuntary register transitions can occur during singing. However, little is known regarding the mechanisms which govern such transitions. To investigate this phenomenon, we systematically varied laryngeal muscle activation and airflow in an in vivo canine larynx model during phonation. We calculated voice range profiles showing average nerve activations for all combinations of fundamental frequency (F0) and sound pressure level (SPL). Further, we determined closed-quotient (CQ) and minimum-posterior-area (MPA) based on high-speed video recordings. While different combinations of muscle activation favored different combinations of F0 and SPL, in the investigated larynx there was a consistent region of instability at about 400 Hz which essentially precluded phonation. An explanation for this region may be a larynx specific coupling between sound source and subglottal tract or an effect based purely on larynx morphology. Register transitions crossed this region, with different combinations of cricothyroid and thyroarytenoid muscle (TA) activation stabilizing higher or lower neighboring frequencies. Observed patterns in CQ and MPA dependent on TA activation reproduced patterns found in singers in previous work. Lack of control of TA stimulation may result in phonation instabilities, and enhanced control of TA stimulation may help to avoid involuntary register transitions, especially in the singing voice.
The acoustics of Contemporary Standard Bulgarian vowels: A corpus study
Authors: Sabev Mitko , Andreeva Bistra
Published: March 2024

A comprehensive examination of the acoustics of Contemporary Standard Bulgarian vowels is lacking to date, and this article aims to fill that gap. Six acoustic variables—the first three formant frequencies, duration, mean f0, and mean intensity—of 11 615 vowel tokens from 140 speakers were analysed using linear mixed models, multivariate analysis of variance, and linear discriminant analysis. The vowel system, which comprises six phonemes in stressed position, [ε a ɔ i ɤ u], was examined from four angles. First, vowels in pretonic syllables were compared to other unstressed vowels, and no spectral or durational differences were found, contrary to an oft-repeated claim that pretonic vowels reduce less. Second, comparisons of stressed and unstressed vowels revealed significant differences in all six variables for the non-high vowels [ε a ɔ]. No spectral or durational differences were found in [i ɤ u], which disproves another received view that high vowels are lowered when unstressed. Third, non-high vowels were compared with their high counterparts; the height contrast was completely neutralized in unstressed [a-ɤ] and [ɔ-u] while [ε-i] remained distinct. Last, the acoustic correlates of vowel contrasts were examined, and it was demonstrated that only F1, F2 frequencies and duration were systematically employed in differentiating vowel phonemes.
Eye infection risks from
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
via hand soap and eye drops
Authors: Gitter Anna , Mena Kristina D. , Mendez Karla S. , Wu Fuqing , Gerba Charles P.
Published: March 2024

Eye infections from bacterial contamination of bulk-refillable liquid soap dispensers and artificial tear eye drops continue to occur, resulting in adverse health outcomes that include impaired vision or eye enucleation.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
(
P. aeruginosa
), a common cause of eye infections, can grow in eye drop containers and refillable soap dispensers to high numbers. To assess the risk of eye infection, a quantitative microbial risk assessment for
P. aeruginosa
was conducted to predict the probability of an eye infection for two potential exposure scenarios: (i) individuals using bacteria-contaminated eye drops and (ii) contact lens wearers washing their hands with bacteria-contaminated liquid soap prior to placing the lens. The median risk of an eye infection using contaminated eye drops and hand soap for both single and multiple exposure events (per day) ranged from 10
–1
to 10
−4
, with contaminated eye drops having the greater risk. The concentration of
P. aeruginosa
was identified as the parameter contributing the greatest variance on eye infection risk; therefore, the prevalence and level of bacterial contamination of the product would have the greatest influence on health risk. Using eye drops in a single-use container or with preservatives can mitigate bacterial growth, and using non-refillable soap dispensers is recommended to reduce contamination of hand soap. Given the opportunistic nature of
P. aeruginosa
and its ability to thrive in unique environments, additional safeguards to mitigate bacterial growth and exposure are warranted.

IMPORTANCE

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
(
P. aeruginosa
) is a pathogen that can persist in a variety of unusual environments and continues to pose a significant risk for public health. This quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) estimates the potential human health risks, specifically for eye infections, associated with exposure to
P. aeruginosa
in bacteria-contaminated artificial tear eye drops and hand soap. This study applies the risk assessment framework of QMRA to evaluate eye infection risks through both consumer products. The study examines the prevalence of this pathogen in eye drops and soap, as well as the critical need to implement measures that will mitigate bacterial exposure (e.g., single-use soap dispensers and eye drops with preservatives). Additionally, limitations and challenges are discussed, including the need to incorporate data regarding consumer practices, which may improve exposure assessments and health risk estimates.
Metagenomic sequencing of a Patescibacteria-containing enrichment from Zodletone spring in Oklahoma, USA
Authors: Mulay Sayali A. , Hahn C. Ryan , Klingeman Dawn M. , Elshahed Mostafa S. , Youssef Noha H. , Podar Mircea
Published: March 2024

An enrichment of sulfidic sediments from Zodletone spring was sequenced as a metagenome. Draft genomes representing Cloacimonadota, Deltabacterota, Firmicutes, and Patescibacteria were binned and annotated and will aid functional genomics and cultivation efforts.
Supplemental Material: Okanogan lobe tunnel channels and subglacial floods into Moses Coulee, Channeled Scabland, northwestern United States
Authors: Gombiner Joel , Lesemann Jerome-Etienne
Published: March 2024

Geomorphic inventories (KMZ) and supplemental reasoning and calculations (PDF).  
Supplemental Material: Clumped and in situ carbon, oxygen isotopes of calcite as tracers for oxidation of hydrocarbons in deep siliciclastic strata
Authors: Kang Xun , Tan JingQiang , et al.
Published: March 2024

Figures S1–S4 (two photos of the typical rocks from the Baikouquan Formation, one figure showing the result of natural gas diffusion numerical modelling), Tables S1 and S2, and the detailed modeling procedure.
Supplemental Material: Recycling of Paleo-Tethyan oceanic crust: Geochemical record from Early–Middle Triassic igneous rocks in the East Kunlun Orogen in western China
Authors: Yedan Hu , Ma Li-Tao , et al.
Published: March 2024

Analytical methods, Figures S1–S6, and Tables S1–S7. 
Supplemental Material: Beast Quake (Taylor’s Version): Analysis of seismic signals recorded during two Taylor Swift concerts in Seattle, July 2023
Authors: Caplan-Auerbach Jacqueline , Marczewski Kyla , Bullock Gavin S.
Published: March 2024

Spreadsheet showing data from the two Taylor Swift concerts, including set lists, song rhythms, and crowdsourced observations of the concerts. 
Multimodal pain management and postoperative outcomes in inpatient and outpatient shoulder arthroplasties: a population-based study
Authors: Liu Helen , Zhong Haoyan , Zubizarreta Nicole , Cagle Paul , Liu Jiabin , Poeran Jashvant , Memtsoudis Stavros G
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Multimodal analgesia has been associated with reduced opioid utilization, opioid-related complications, and improved recovery in various orthopedic surgeries; however, large sample size data is lacking for shoulder surgery.

Methods

A retrospective review using the Premier Healthcare Database of patients who underwent inpatient or outpatient (reverse, total, partial) shoulder arthroplasty from 2010 to 2019. Opioid-only analgesia was compared with multimodal analgesia, categorized into 1, 2, or >2 additional analgesic modes, with/without a nerve block. Multivariable regression models measured associations between multimodal analgesia and opioid charges (in oral morphine equivalents (OME)), cost and length of stay, and opioid-related adverse effects (approximated by naloxone use). We report % change and 95% CIs.

Results

Among 176 225 procedures, 169 679 (75.7% multimodal analgesia use) and 6546 (37.8% multimodal analgesia use) were inpatient and outpatient shoulder arthroplasties, respectively. Among inpatients, multimodal analgesia (>2 modes) without a nerve block (vs opioid-only analgesia) was associated with adjusted reductions in OMEs on postoperative day 1: −19.4% (95% CI −21.2% to −17.6%/representing unadjusted median OME reductions from 45 to 30 mg). For total hospitalization, this was −6.0% (95% CI −7.2% to −4.9%/representing unadjusted median OME reductions from 173 to 135 mg). Conversely, for outpatients, this was +13.7% change in OMEs (95% CI +4.4% to +23.0%/representing unadjusted median OME increases from 110 to 131 mg). In both settings, addition of a nerve block to multimodal analgesia attenuated effects in terms of opioid charges.

Conclusions

Multimodal analgesia is associated with reductions in opioid charges—specifically inpatient setting—but not various other outcomes.
Thermodynamic analysis for the dissolution of two similar amino acids in sodium sulfate aqueous solution
Authors: Saha Avishek , Mahali Kalachand , Ganai Sintu , Mukherjee Puspal , Hossain Aslam , Roy Sanjay
Published: March 2024

In the current work, the analyti cal static gravimetric technique was used to assess the solubilities of DL-α-amino butyric acid and DL-valine in an aqueous binary solvent mixture of sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) under equilibrium saturation conditions in between temperature range 288.15 and 308.15 K. Different thermodynamic factors along with transfer Gibbs energetics and entropies under standard conditions were estimated by using computational as well as theoretical method by using the experimental solubilities. Several modes of interactions that occur during solvation were also explained. The manner that solvent molecules of solute amino acids are surrounded in the aforementioned medium employed during the process is taken into consideration. Amino acids become more soluble as the temperature rises. The study also helps us to reach the conclusion that physical properties of electrolyte (Na2SO4), mixed solvent, and the size of the amino acids’ molecules are the main governing factors for the chemical stability as well as other thermodynamic and physical property like solubility of solute amino acids.
S-filled and Te-doped CoSb3 materials prepared by HPHT method with ultra-low thermal conductivity
Authors: Guo Z. L. , Han X. , Deng L.
Published: March 2024

In this paper, a series of S[Formula: see text]Co4Sb[Formula: see text]Te[Formula: see text] samples were prepared by high pressure and high temperature (HPHT) method under different pressures. The synthesis time was shortened from several days to 0.5 h. Te doping and S filling simultaneously optimized the thermal and electrical transport properties of the CoSb3 materials. We found a porous architecture containing rich grain boundaries, different grain sizes, nano- to micrometer-sized pores, and a large number of dislocations, which can scatter a wide spectrum of phonons. Seebeck coefficient [Formula: see text], electrical resistivity [Formula: see text], and thermal conductivity [Formula: see text] were measured between 295 K and 773 K. The minimum thermal conductivity of S[Formula: see text]Co4Sb[Formula: see text]Te[Formula: see text] synthesized at 3.0 GPa was 1.23 Wm[Formula: see text] K[Formula: see text], and its maximum zT value reached 1.07 at 773 K, especially the lattice thermal conductivity was as low as 0.49 Wm[Formula: see text] K[Formula: see text].
Investigation of piezoelectric properties in manganese doped alkaline niobate-based lead-free piezoceramics
Authors: Rawat Saraswati , Singh K. Chandramani , Jiten Chongtham , Kumar Sanjeev , Laishram Radhapiyari
Published: March 2024

In this work, an attempt is made for improving the piezoelectric properties of a lead-free (Na[Formula: see text]K[Formula: see text]Li[Formula: see text](Nb[Formula: see text]V[Formula: see text]O3 ceramic system by doping manganese in it. The Rietveld analysis of XRD micrographs of the ceramics indicates the samples crystallizing into 99.86% of orthorhombic phase and very small traces of tetragonal phase around room temperature. The Curie temperature ([Formula: see text]) is hardly affected by the incorporation of Mn[Formula: see text] into the system. At the manganese concentration of 0.02[Formula: see text]wt.%, the ceramic system attains the peak values in its density, dielectric constant at room temperature ([Formula: see text]), planar electromechanical coefficient ([Formula: see text], piezoelectric coefficient ([Formula: see text]), and remnant polarization ([Formula: see text]). The optimum piezoelectric properties of [Formula: see text]% and [Formula: see text] pC/N are observed for this composition. The study reveals that the modification of (Na[Formula: see text]K[Formula: see text]Li[Formula: see text]) (Nb[Formula: see text]V[Formula: see text]O3 with an appropriate quantity of Mn[Formula: see text] can produce the desired changes in the crystallographic properties and densification so as to eventually improve its piezoelectric properties.
Design of large core AS2S3 chalcogenide PCF pumped at all-normal and anomalous dispersion regimes for supercontinuum generation
Authors: Van Lanh Chu , Tran Bao Tran Le
Published: March 2024

We design and simulate a near-zero flat dispersion As2S3 photonic crystal fiber (PCF) with a circular shape to generate a broad and smooth supercontinuum (SC). A near-zero flattened dispersion in the all-normal dispersion PCF is maintained in the 4–6.2[Formula: see text]m wavelength range. A 6[Formula: see text]m hyperbolic pulse is injected into this fiber, producing a flat spectrum from 2.45 to 8.4[Formula: see text]m at a peak power of 5[Formula: see text]kW. The generated SC in anomalous dispersion PCF can cover multi-octaves by a pump laser with a 6500[Formula: see text]nm wavelength, 10[Formula: see text]kW of peak power, and a 90[Formula: see text]fs duration in 10[Formula: see text]cm of the proposed fiber structure. These results are achieved by optimizing the fiber structure through the core size. In general, the proposed structures could be used for broadband smooth low-cost SC generation.
Secured Framework with a Hash Function-Enabled Keyword Search in Cloud Storage Services
Authors: Punitha P. , Kumar Lakshmana , Revathi S. , Premalatha R. , Aiswarya R. S.
Published: March 2024

As with IoT devices, cloud computation increases its applicability to other areas that use the information and puts it in a commonplace that is necessary for computing and analysis. These devices need the cloud to store and retrieve data since they are unable to store and process data on their own. Cloud computing offers a variety of services to consumers, including IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS. The usage of cloud resources for data storage that may be accessible by all users associated with cloud computing is a key disadvantage of cloud computing. Without disclosing the data’s contents, the usage of Public Key Encryptions with Keyword Search (PEKS) secures publicly encrypted keys against third-party search capabilities that are not trustworthy. PEKs provide a security risk every time Interior Keywords Guessing Attacks (IKGA) are discovered in the system since an unauthorized service estimates the keywords in the trapdoor. This issue can be resolved using various methodologies such as the Certificateless Fleshed Public Key Authenticated Encryption of Keyword Search (CL-HPAEKS), which also uses Altered Elliptic Curve Cryptography (MECC), and the Mutation Centred Flower Pollinations Algorithm (CM-FPA), which uses optimization in keys to be improving the algorithm’s performance. The system’s security is achieved by adding a Message Fragments 5 (MD5) scramble mechanism. The proposed system achieves system security of 96%, and it takes less time to implement than earlier encryption methods.
Retro Oesophageal Transfer of Contralateral C7 in Birth Brachial Plexus Injury – A Retrospective Study
Authors: KESAVAN Pradeep Kumar , BALAN Jyoshid R. , KUNNATH Ajai S. , ROY Vinu , PRASANNA Prince H.
Published: March 2024

Background: Presence of available healthy nerve roots on the injured side determines the outcome after nerve reconstruction. Paucity of nerve roots warrants contralateral C7 harvest for optimal results. We aim to study the risks and benefits of retro oesophageal transfer of contralateral C7 root in infants with birth brachial plexus injury.

Methods: Study was carried out from 2017 to 2022 in 13 children who have undergone retro oesophageal transfer of contralateral C7 root to affected side. Follow-up period ranged from 8 to 60 months after the surgery. Motor power assessment was done using by active movement scale.

Results: Average active movement score for abduction was found to be 6, elbow flexion 5.7, elbow extension 5.8, wrist extension 3, wrist flexion 4, finger flexion 4.8 and finger extension 3.8, respectively. No neurological deficits, limb length anomaly noted in the normal upper limb after contralateral C7 harvest.

Conclusions: Retro oesophageal transfer of contralateral C7 is a safe technique in birth brachial plexus injury. The advantage of retro oesophageal transfer is reduction in the length of nerve grafts, thus helping in early neurotisation of distal forearm and hand muscles. The large axonal output from contralateral C7 can be used to reconstruct different nerves without any residual deficits on the normal side.

Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic)
Adipofascial Perforator Flaps for Peripheral Nerve Resurfacing after External Neurolysis
Authors: CALOTTA Nicholas A. , SHORES Jaimie T. , TUFFAHA Sami H.
Published: March 2024

Background: External neurolysis is an important approach to treating symptomatic peripheral nerve entrapment. In cases of recurrent neurolysis or particularly extensive neurolysis, a paucity of overlying soft tissue for closure over the freshly liberated nerve presents a challenge to long-term surgical success as primary closure of this tissue may predispose the patient to recalcitrant epineural scarring. We report the intermediate term outcomes of the use of adipofascial perforator flaps as a means of vascularised tissue resurfacing of nerves in these difficult scenarios.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients undergoing external neurolysis for painful peripheral nerve lesions who subsequently had soft tissue reconstruction with local adipofascial flaps. Data with regard to age, gender, limb involved, duration of symptoms, number of prior surgeries, operative time, type of flap, vascular basis of flap, duration of follow-up, visual analogue pain score, monofilament sensory testing and complications were collected.

Results: We included six patients (four women) with a minimum follow-up period of 17 months (range: 17–25 months). Age ranged from 39 to 60 years of age. Four cases involved the upper extremity and two the lower extremity. Symptoms had been present between 1 and 10 years. All operations utilised a local adipofascial flap perfused by a named perforating vessel emanating from an adjacent axial vessel. Operative time for flap creation and inset was 74 minutes, on average. There was one minor complication owing to superficial wound dehiscence. All patients reported substantial pain relief (≥five-point reduction on visual analogue scale; scores 0–3 at last follow-up) and objective sensory testing demonstrated improvement.

Conclusions: Our report pays particular attention to surgical technique that is applicable to both upper and lower extremities in addition to intermediate term safety and pain outcomes.

Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic)
Bilateral Dorsal Nail Curvature of the Thumb Distal Phalanx – A Case Report
Authors: FERNANDO Ashan Rabinath , WILKS Daniel James , MCCOMBE David Bryan , COOMBS Christopher John
Published: March 2024

Congenital dorsal curvature of the distal phalanx has been previously described as ‘reverse Kirner’ or ‘ski-jump’ deformity. This report describes bilateral occurrence in the thumbs. A 13-year-old male presented with difficulty caring for his thumbnails and in picking up small objects. Examination showed dorsal curvature of the distal phalanges of both thumbs, with greater curvature of the right side. Radiographs showed wedge-shaped epiphyses and dorsal curvature without coronal plane deviation of the distal phalanges. There was objective and subjective decrease in function associated with lateral pinch and tripod grasp. The reported aetiopathogenesis for Kirner deformity cannot explain the observed dorsal curvature. The bilateral nature makes a secondary physeal cause unlikely and suggests an embryologic basis. Due to the noticeable deficits in function, operative intervention may be warranted.

Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic)
A first complete catalog of highly expressed genes in eight chicken tissues reveals uncharacterized gene families specific for the chicken testis
Authors: Piégu Benoît , Lefort Gaëlle , Douet Cécile , Milhes Marine , Jacques Aurore , Lareyre Jean-Jacques , Monget Philippe , Fouchécourt Sophie
Published: March 2024

Comparative next-generation sequencing analysis of eight chicken tissues showed that the testis has highest proportion of long noncoding RNA and protein-coding genes of the whole genome. We identified new genes in the chicken testis, including orthologs of known mammalian testicular genes. We also identified 47 gene families in which all the members were overexpressed, if not exclusive, in the testis. Eight families, organized in duplication clusters, were unknown, without orthologs in metazoans except birds, and are thus specific for chickens/birds.
Urine Test Strip Quantitative Assay with a Smartphone Camera
Authors: Pohanka Miroslav , Zakova Jitka
Published: March 2024

Urine test strips for urinalysis are a common diagnostic tool with minimal costs and are used in various situations including homecare and hospitalization. The coloration scaled by the naked eye is simple, but it is suitable for semiquantitative analysis only. In this paper, a colorimetric assay is developed based on a smartphone digital camera and urine test strips. Assays of pH, albumin, glucose, and lipase activity were performed as a tool for the diagnosis of aciduria, alkaluria, glycosuria, proteinuria, and leukocyturia. The RGB color channels were analyzed in the colorimetric assay, and the assay exerted good sensitivity, and all the particular diagnoses proved to be reliable. The limits of detection for glucose (0.11 mmol/L), albumin (0.15 g/L), and lipase (2.50 U/μL) were low enough to cover the expected physiological concentration, and the range for pH was also satisfactory. The urine test strips with a camera as an output detector proved applicability to spiked urine samples, and the results were also well in comparison to the standard assays which confirms the practical relevance of the presented findings.
Antibacterial Mechanisms of Constituents from Galla chinensis Revealed by Experimental and Virtual Screening-Based Studies
Authors: Liu Meilan , Lin Tingting , Yao Liyuan , Chen Hongfeng , Lu Yu , Tao Zhengguo , Zhao Haiquan , Qiu Sheng-Xiang , Zhao Liyun
Published: March 2024

Many traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been confirmed to have antibacterial activities. However, very few substances have been found to be active against Gram-negative bacteria. This study aimed to identify antimicrobial activity substances against Gram-negative bacteria from fourteen TCMs. Fourteen TCMs with antibacterial potential were chosen for quantitative extraction and antibacterial activity assay, and the plant with the highest activity against Escherichia coli was selected to construct the component-target network. The following virtual screening and enzyme inhibition experiments were performed to analyse the antibacterial mechanisms of the compounds from Galla chinensis. The chemical constituents of Galla chinensis were identified by chemical fingerprinting. 1, 2, 3, 4, 6-Penta-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose (PGG) from Galla chinensis exhibited significant inhibition activity against adenylyl transferase (ATase) of E. coli and antibacterial activity against E. coli. Meanwhile, PGG was identified in the Galla chinensis ethanol extract as the abundant ingredient with a high content of 1.95% (w/w). PGG enriched in Galla chinensis is a promising natural antibiotic with the mode of action inhibiting ATase activity. To our knowledge, this is the first study attributing the antibacterial activity of PGG to its affinity with ATase.
Phase Error Criterion Based Adaptive Algorithm for Frequency Estimation
Authors: Inban Prayuth , Punchalard Rachu , Benjangkaprasert Chawalit
Published: March 2024

A simple phase error criterion (PEC-)-based adaptive algorithm for estimating the frequency of a complex sinusoidal signal in additive white Gaussian and impulsive noises is proposed. The proposed technique makes use of the instantaneous phase response of a first-order complex linear predictor (CLP) as a driving function to update the frequency parameter of the CLP. The proposed PEC is attractive due to its simplicity and high impulsive noise robustness. Theoretical analysis for the mean value of the estimated frequency and the steady-state mean square error (MSE) of the frequency estimate are derived in closed forms. Computer simulations are drawn to show the performance of the proposed frequency estimator.
Reproductive Factors Related to Childbearing and a Novel Automated Mammographic Measure, V
Authors: Yaghjyan Lusine , Wang Zifan , Warner Erica T. , Rosner Bernard , Heine John , Tamimi Rulla M.
Published: March 2024

Background:

We investigated the associations between several reproductive factors related to childbearing and the variation (V) measure (a novel, objective, single summary measure of breast image intensity) by menopausal status.

Methods:

Our study included 3,814 cancer-free women within the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS) and NHSII cohorts. The data on reproductive variables and covariates were obtained from biennial questionnaires closest to the mammogram date. V-measures were obtained from mammographic images using a previously developed algorithm capturing the standard deviation of pixel values. We used multivariate linear regression to examine the associations of parity, age at first birth, time between menarche and first birth, time since last pregnancy, and lifetime breastfeeding duration with V-measure, adjusting for breast cancer risk factors, including the percentage of mammographic density (PMD). We further examined whether these associations were statistically accounted for (mediated) by PMD.

Results:

Among premenopausal women, none of the reproductive factors were associated with V. Among postmenopausal women, inverse associations of parity and positive associations of age at first birth with V were mediated by PMD (percent mediated: nulliparity: 66.7%, P < 0.0001; parity: 50.5%, P < 0.01; age at first birth 76.1%, P < 0.001) and were no longer significant in PMD-adjusted models. Lifetime duration of breastfeeding was positively associated with V [>36 vs. 0 ≤1 months β = 0.29; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.07; 0.52, Ptrend < 0.01], independent of PMD.

Conclusions:

Parity, age at first birth, and breastfeeding were associated with postmenopausal V.

Impact:

This study highlights associations of reproductive factors with mammographic image intensity.
Fine Particulate Matter, Noise Pollution, and Greenspace and Prostate Cancer Risk in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial Cohort
Authors: Thomas Aleah L. , Rhee Jongeun , Fisher Jared A. , Horner Marie-Josephe , Jones Rena R.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Greenspace is hypothesized as being protective against cancer, whereas noise pollution and fine particulate matter (<2.5 μm in diameter, PM2.5) are both potential risk factors. Findings from recent studies of greenspace and PM2.5 with prostate cancer are not conclusive and the association between noise exposure and cancer has not been evaluated in a U.S. study.

Methods:

We assessed PM2.5, noise, and greenspace exposure using spatiotemporal models and satellite-based estimates at enrollment addresses for N = 43,184 male participants of the prospective Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer (PLCO) Screening Trial cohort (enrolled 1994–2001). We used Cox regression models adjusted for age, race and ethnicity, study center, family history of prostate cancer, and Area Deprivation Index to estimate associations between ambient PM2.5 (μg/m3), greenspace (index range from –1 to 1), and noise pollution (loudest 10% of total existing sound, decibels) and incident prostate cancer risk through December 2017.

Results:

A total of 6,327 cases of prostate cancer were diagnosed among male participants during follow-up. PM2.5 and noise exposures were moderately positively correlated (Spearman ρ = 0.46), and PM2.5 and greenspace were not correlated (ρ = 0.10); greenspace and noise were inversely correlated (ρ = −0.32). In single-pollutant and multipollutant models mutually adjusted for coexposures, we found no associations with prostate cancer risk.

Conclusions:

We did not find evidence that PM2.5, greenspace, and noise pollution were associated with prostate cancer risk in this large, geographically spread cohort.

Impact:

This study contributes to a small body of existing literature investigating these biologically plausible associations.
FIGURE 6 from Targeting Tryptophan Catabolism in Ovarian Cancer to Attenuate Macrophage Infiltration and PD-L1 Expression
Authors: Crump Lyndsey S. , Floyd Jessica L. , Kuo Li-Wei , Post Miriam D. , Bickerdike Mike , O'Neill Kathleen , Sompel Kayla , Jordan Kimberly R. , Corr Bradley R. , Marjon Nicole , Woodruff Elizabeth R. , Richer Jennifer K. , Bitler Benjamin G.
Published: March 2024

IDO1/TDO2 inhibition combined with cisplatin attenuates cisplatin-induced PD-L1 and extends overall survival. A, COV504 treated for 48 hours with control, cisplatin (10 µmol/L), or cisplatin (10 µmol/L)/AT-0174 (5 µmol/L). PD-L1 expression was measured via flow cytometry. B, ID8 (Tp53−/−) syngeneic animal study with cisplatin (i.p., weekly, 0.5 mg/kg) and/or AT-0174 (oral gavage, daily, 120 mg/kg). n = 10 mice/group C). Kaplan–Meier curve of animal study described in B. Error bars, SEM. Statistical test, multicomparison ANOVA (A) and log-rank (C).
FIGURE 3 from Targeting Tryptophan Catabolism in Ovarian Cancer to Attenuate Macrophage Infiltration and PD-L1 Expression
Authors: Crump Lyndsey S. , Floyd Jessica L. , Kuo Li-Wei , Post Miriam D. , Bickerdike Mike , O'Neill Kathleen , Sompel Kayla , Jordan Kimberly R. , Corr Bradley R. , Marjon Nicole , Woodruff Elizabeth R. , Richer Jennifer K. , Bitler Benjamin G.
Published: March 2024

Pharmacologic dual inhibition of TDO2/IDO reduces ovarian cancer cell growth and TRP catabolism. OVCAR3 cells were treated with vehicle or increasing concentrations of epacadostat (A), 680c91 (B), AT-0174 (C), or StemRegenin (D). After 72 hours, cells were fixed and stained with crystal violet to assess viability. E, TRP and KYN metabolomics were performed on conditioned media from cells treated with 10 µmol/L epacadostat, 10 µmol/L 680c91, 10 µmol/L AT-0174, or 10 µmol/L StemRegenin. F, Cells were pretreated with increasing concentrations of epacadostat, 680c91, AT-0174, or StemRegenin for 168 hours, then cell growth over time was measured using an IncuCyte Live Cell Imaging system. Statistical test, multicomparison two-way ANOVA (E and F).
Evaluation of a Multimodal Stress Management and Comprehensive Lifestyle Modification Program on Quality of Life and Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Patients with Crohn’s Disease: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial with 9-Month Follow-Up
Authors: Bauer Nina , Löffler Claudia , Oeznur Oezlem , Uecker Christine , Schlee Christoph , Adamczyk Alexandra , Elsenbruch Sigrid , Pfuhlmann Katrin , Reissmann Ralf , Westendorf Astrid , Keil Thomas , Langhorst Jost
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Stress and lifestyle factors impact the course of Crohn’s disease (CD). Our primary objective was to assess whether patients with CD benefit from a mind-body-medicine stress management and lifestyle modification (MBM) program. Methods: This 9-month two-arm pilot trial was conducted in Bamberg, Germany (2020–2021). Patients (18–75 years) with mild to moderate activity of CD and stable medication were enrolled and randomly assigned to either a 10-week MBM program (intervention group, IG) or a single 90-min education session (waiting list control group, CG). Primary endpoints were quality of life (IBDQ) and disease activity (HBI). Secondary endpoints were emotional distress, core self-evaluation, and inflammatory biomarkers 3 and 9 months after baseline assessment. Results: We analyzed data from 37 patients (IG: n = 19, mean ± SD age 49.6 ± 13.1 years, 68% female; CG: 18, 46.8 ± 11.4, 67% female). Immediately after the intervention, 79% (IG) and 44% (CG) experienced a clinically relevant improvement (IBDQ score ≥16 points). This was similar after 9 months (63% vs. 44%). There was no difference in disease activity (3 months: p = 0.082, 95% CI −1.3 to 2.6; 9 months: p = 0.251, 95% CI −1.2 to 2.5). Secondary outcomes indicated improvements in emotional distress, core self-evaluation, erythrocyte sedimentation rate after three and in emotional distress, T-cell profiling in the blood, and fecal lactoferrin and calprotectin group after 9 months in the IG. Conclusion: Our study suggested benefits of a multimodal stress management and lifestyle modification program for patients with CD. Larger trials are needed to determine if the program can supplement or at least partially replace pharmacological treatment approaches.
A Case of Photoimmunotherapy for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Requiring Emergency Tracheostomy
Authors: Kushihashi Yukiomi , Masubuchi Tatsuo , Okamoto Isaku , Fushimi Chihiro , Yamazaki Morio , Asano Hisashi , Aoki Reo , Fujii Shota , Asako Yukiko , Tada Yuichiro
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Photoimmunotherapy (PIT) is a treatment wherein intravenous cetuximab sarotalocan sodium is administered followed by laser light irradiation. This treatment exhibits a specific antitumor effect if in tumors expressing the epidermal growth factor receptor, regardless of the carcinoma [Mitsunaga et al.: Nat Med. 2011;17(12):1685–91, Sato et al.: ACS Cent Sci. 2018;4(11):1559–69, Nakajima et al.: Cancer Sci. 2018;109(9):2889–96]. The current indications are unresectable, locally advanced, or locally recurrent head and neck cancer. If standard treatments, such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy, are available, they are given priority. However, a significant concern in PIT is the occurrence of airway emergencies related to pharyngeal edema. Prophylactic tracheostomy is often performed in cases of PIT involving the root of the tongue, hypopharynx, or larynx. Case Presentation: In this study, we administered transoral PIT to a patient diagnosed with radiation-induced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cT1N0M0 stage I). Although previous case reports and our own experiences did not report airway emergencies following PIT for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, a unique case occurred in our study [Omura et al.: Auris Nasus Larynx. 2023;50(4):641–5, Kushihashi et al.: Int J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2022;11(5, Sep):258–65]. The patient experienced poor oxygenation and a decreased level of consciousness early in the morning following the laser irradiation. Nasal endoscopy revealed airway narrowing due to upper airway edema, and intubation was challenging. Consequently, we performed emergency bedside tracheostomy and the patient’s condition improved. Conclusion: Therefore, it is crucial to note that airway emergencies can be life-threatening and should be diligently monitored as a potential complication of PIT.
A Case of Dissecting Cellulitis of the Scalp, Hidradenitis Suppurativa, and Conglobate Acne Successfully Treated with Secukinumab
Authors: Schettini Natale , Marzola Elisa , Pacetti Lucrezia , Cavaliere Simone , Bettoli Vincenzo
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp (DCS) is a neutrophilic scarring alopecia typically presenting with pustules and fluctuant nodules, followed by suppuration and sinus tract formation. DCS is often associated with other diseases, such as hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and conglobate acne (CA) which share similar pathogenetic mechanisms. Case Presentation: The authors report the case of a patient affected by a severe form of DCS, HS, and CA of the face. Previous treatments with isotretinoin, antibiotics, and adalimumab did not have a considerable efficacy. Off-label treatment with secukinumab showed a gradual improvement in the clinical presentation bringing to a reduction in the number of HS lesions and to an almost complete resolution of the inflammatory manifestations of DCS. Conclusion: Management of DCS is challenging and is typically based on retinoids which are considered the first line of treatment. The efficacy of biologic drugs, especially TNFα inhibitors, in severe and relapsing forms of DCS has been reported in recent literature. To our knowledge, only one case of isolated DCS treated with secukinumab is reported. No cases of concomitant DCS and HS, treated with this type of IL-17 inhibitor, have been described.
GNB1-Related Rod-Cone Dystrophy: A Case Report
Authors: Conti Giovanni Marco , Cancellieri Francesca , Quinodoz Mathieu , Kaminska Karolina , Vaclavik Veronika , Rivolta Carlo , Tran Hoai Viet
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The GNB1 (guanine nucleotide-binding protein, β1) gene encodes for the ubiquitous β1 subunit of heterotrimeric G proteins, which are associated with G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). GNB1 mutations cause a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a broad clinical spectrum. A novel variant has recently been confirmed in a case of rod-cone dystrophy. Case Presentation: We describe the second confirmed case of a classical rod-cone dystrophy associated with a mutation located in exon 6 of GNB1 [NM_002074.5:c.217G>C, p.(Ala73Pro)] in a 56-year-old patient also presenting mild intellectual disability, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and truncal obesity. Conclusion: This paper confirms the role of GNB1 in the pathogenesis of a classic rod-cone dystrophy and highlights the importance of including this gene in the genetic analysis panel for inherited retinal diseases.
Role of Raptor Gene Variants in Hypertension: Influence on Blood Pressure Independent of Salt Intake in White Population
Authors: Aljaibeji Hayat , Heydarpour Mahyar , Stanton Ana Maria , Williams Jonathan S. , Pojoga Luminita H. , Romero Jose R. , Williams Gordon H.
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

The mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) is an essential regulator of fundamental biological processes. mTOR forms 2 distinct complexes, mTORC1 (mTOR complex 1) when it binds with RAPTOR (Regulatory-associated Protein of mTOR) and mTORC2 (mTOR complex 2) when it associates with RICTOR (Rapamycin-insesitive companion of mTOR). Due to the previous link between the mTOR pathway, aldosterone, and blood pressure (BP), we anticipated that variants in the mTOR complex might be associated with salt-sensitive BP.

METHODS:

BP and other parameters were assessed after a one-week liberal Na
+
(200 mmol/d) and a one-week restricted Na
+
(10 mmol/d) diet in 608 White subjects from the Hypertensive Pathotype cohort, single-nucleotide variants in
MTOR
,
RPTOR
, and
RICTOR
genes were obtained for candidate genes analyses.

RESULTS:

The analysis revealed a significant association between a single nucleotide variants within the
RPTOR
gene and BP. Individuals carrying the
RPTOR
rs9901846 homozygous risk allele (AA) and heterozygous risk allele (GA) exhibited a 5 mm Hg increase in systolic BP on a liberal diet compared with nonrisk allele individuals (GG), but only in women. This single nucleotide variants effect was more pronounced on the restricted diet and present in both sexes, with AA carriers having a 9 mm Hg increase and GA carriers having a 5 mm Hg increase in systolic BP compared with GG. Interestingly, there were no significant associations between
MTOR
or
RICTOR
gene variants and BP.

CONCLUSIONS:

The
RPTOR
gene variation is associated with elevated BP in White participants, regardless of salt intake, specifically in females.