bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinicopathological features, current status, and progress of primary central nervous system melanoma diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Guo Pengna , Wei Xiaoting , Guo Zhen , Wu Di
Published: October 2023

Primary central nervous system (CNS) melanoma is an extremely rare condition, with an incidence rate of 0.01 per 100,000 individuals per year. Despite its rarity, the etiology and pathogenesis of this disease are not yet fully understood. Primary CNS melanoma exhibits highly aggressive biological behavior and presents clinically in a distinct manner from other types of melanomas. It can develop at any age, predominantly affecting the meninges as the primary site, with clinical symptoms varying depending on the neoplasm’s location. Due to the lack of specificity in its presentation and the challenging nature of imaging diagnosis, distinguishing primary CNS melanoma from other CNS diseases. The combination of challenges in early detection, heightened tumor aggressiveness, and the obscured location of its origin contribute to an unfavorable prognostic outcome. Furthermore, there has been currently no consensus on a standardized treatment approach for primary CNS melanoma. Despite recent advancements in targeted therapy and immunotherapy for CNS melanoma, patients with primary CNS melanoma have limited treatment options due to their inadequate response to these therapies. Here, we provided a comprehensive summary of the epidemiology, clinical features, molecular pathological manifestations, and available diagnostic and therapeutic approaches of primary CNS melanoma. Additionally, we proposed potential therapeutic strategies for it.
Comparative study of virulence factors, pathogenicity and genetic diversity ofAcidovorax avenaesubsp. avenae, the causal agent of red stripe disease in sugarcane
Authors: Bertani Romina Priscila , Mielnichuk Natalia , Chaves Solana , Yaryura Pablo Marcelo , Joya Constanza María , Monachesi María Angélica , Vojnov Adrian Alberto , González Victoria , Perera María Francisca
Published: October 2023

Acidovorax avenaesubsp. avenae(Aaa) is the causal agent of red stripe in sugarcane, a disease characterized by two forms: leaf stripe and top rot. Despite the importance of this disease, little is known about Aaa infection mechanisms, and studies of virulence factors (VFs) have not been reported. Previous analysis of Aaa isolates obtained from sugarcane fields in Tucumán, Argentina, suggested that pathogenicity was not related to genetic groups determined by rep‐PCR analysis. Therefore, the aims of this work were to analyse VFs produced by Aaa strains from different genetic groups and to evaluate the association among VFs, between VFs and Aaa pathogenicity and between VFs and Aaa genetic diversity. Bacterial motility (sliding, swimming and twitching), extracellular enzyme activities (proteases, amylases and endoglucanases), H2O2‐mediated oxidative stress, cell adhesion and exopolysaccharide (EPS) production were assayed in 14 Aaa isolates from different genetic groups. Pearson's correlation analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) were performed. For each VF analysed, values were variable presenting quantitative traits among the strains. Significant correlations were observed among the VFs, though no clear trend was identified between them and the pathogenicity or genetic group. Results reinforce the idea that a single VF does not account for the infection outcome, but a more complex process occurs where the interplay among VFs must be considered. The results of this study are crucial because they provide insight into the infection mechanism of this bacterium.
Synergistic effects of electroactive antibacterial material and electrical stimulation in enhancing skin tissue regeneration: A next‐generation dermal wound dressing
Authors: Zang Xi‐Liang , Gao Fei , Zhang Zhao , Shen Lin‐Hua , Pan Yue‐Hai
Published: October 2023

Objective

We aimed to develop an electroactive antibacterial material for the treatment of skin wound diseases.

Method

To this aim, we modified chitosan (CS), a biocompatible polymer, by coupling it with graphene (rGO) and an antimicrobial polypeptide DOPA‐PonG1. The material's effect on skin injury healing was studied in combination with external electrical stimulation (EEM). The structure, surface composition, and hydrophilicity of the modified CS materials were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and contact angle measurements. We studied NIH3T3 cells cultured with modified materials and subjected to EEM to assess viability, adhesion, and tissue repair‐related gene expression.

Results

SEM data demonstrated that rGO was distributed uniformly on the surface of the CS material, increasing surface roughness, and antimicrobial peptides had minimal impact on surface morphology. FTIR confirmed the uniform distribution of rGO and antibacterial peptides on the material surface. Both rGO and DOPA‐PonG1 enhanced the hydrophilicity of CS materials, with rGO also improving tensile strength. The dual modification of CS with rGO and DOPA‐PonG1 synergistically increased antibacterial efficacy. Cellular events and gene expression relevant to tissue repair process were enhanced by these modifications. Furthermore, EEM accelerated epidermal regeneration more than the material alone. In a rat skin wound model, DOPA‐PonG1@CS/rGO dressing combined with electrical stimulation exhibited accelerated healing of skin defect.

Conclusion

Overall, our results demonstrate that CS materials modified with rGO and DOPA‐PonG1 have increased hydrophilicity, antibacterial characteristics, and tissue regeneration capacities. This modified material in conjunction with EEM hold promise for the clinical management for dermal wounds.
Housing Commodification and Increasing Potential Ground Rents in Post‐Socialist Budapest
Authors: Olt Gergely , Simonovits Borbála , Bernát Anikó , Csizmady Adrienne
Published: October 2023

In post‐socialist Budapest, gentrification has remained modest for decades after the regime change (1989) due to politically controlled economic relations besides marketisation. Political control was transformed but maintained after 2010 in the illiberal Orbán regime. Populist housing privatisation for tenants, insufficient regulation of rental housing, mortgage policy and urban rehabilitations with systemic corruption caused moderate level of housing market commodification. However, gentrification accelerated from 2014. Among other factors, the restriction of mortgage lending and the unplanned expansion of tourism increased the commodification of real estate market. Similar contextual issues were mentioned in the gentrification literature before; however, they remained external modifying effects of the assumed nomothetic political economic mechanisms behind rent gaps under neoliberal governance assumed everywhere. We suggest connecting institutional, social and political factors with dynamics of land rent through the concept of commodification and its effects on potential ground rent to include them within the mechanisms of gentrification.
Drivers of cross‐border bank claims: The role of foreign‐owned banks in emerging countries
Authors: Brana Sophie , Chenaf‐Nicet Dalila , Lahet Delphine
Published: October 2023

Studies of the determinants of cross‐border bank claims are based on the economic situations of the lending and borrowing countries—the traditional push/pull factors—but fail to take into account the situation of the international lending banks and the presence of their subsidiaries in emerging countries. They also fail to explain the huge decrease in cross‐border bank flows after the 2008 global financial crisis. In this paper, we analyse the determinants of cross‐border bank claims on a panel of 28 emerging countries and explicitly integrate banking determinants. Thus, we account for the financial situation of international lender banks and the existence of foreign locations in emerging countries as a potential pull stabilising factor. We show that the presence of foreign banks in emerging countries is clearly a factor of attraction for cross‐border bank claims. It remains when we explicitly take into account the 2008 crisis but to a lower extent and in favour of interbank loans. This may be proof of support from the international parent banks to their affiliates. Last, the financial situation of international banks, notably their liquidity and ability to respect prudential rules, also plays a role in their financing strategies in emerging countries.
Neutral sphingomyelinase regulates mechanotransduction in human engineered cardiac tissues and mouse hearts
Authors: Turner Daniel G. P. , De Lange Willem J. , Zhu Yanlong , Coe Christopher L. , Simcox Judith , Ge Ying , Kamp Timothy J. , Ralphe J. Carter , Glukhov Alexey V.
Published: October 2023

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the USA and is known to be exacerbated by elevated mechanical stress from hypertension. Caveolae are plasma membrane structures that buffer mechanical stress but have been found to be reduced in pathological conditions associated with chronically stretched myocardium. To explore the physiological implications of the loss of caveolae, we used human engineered cardiac tissue (ECT) constructs, composed of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)‐derived cardiomyocytes and hiPSC‐derived cardiac fibroblasts, to develop a long‐term cyclic stretch protocol that recapitulates the effects of hypertension on caveolae expression, membrane tension, and the β‐adrenergic response. Leveraging this new stretch protocol, we identified neutral sphingomyelinases (nSMase) as mechanoregulated mediators of caveolae loss, ceramide production and the blunted β‐adrenergic response in this human cardiac model. Specifically, in our ECT model, nSMase inhibition via GW4869 prevented stretch‐induced loss of caveolae‐like structures, mitigated nSMase‐dependent ceramide production, and maintained the ECT contractile kinetic response to isoprenaline. These findings are correlated with a blood lipidomic analysis in middle‐aged and older adults, which revealed an increase of the circulating levels of ceramides in adults with hypertension. Furthermore, we found that conduction slowing from increased pressure loading in mouse left ventricle was abolished in the context of nSMase inhibition. Collectively, these findings identify nSMase as a potent drug target for mitigating stretch‐induced effects on cardiac function.

image

Key points

We have developed a new stretch protocol for human engineered cardiac tissue that recapitulates changes in plasma membrane morphology observed in animal models of pressure/volume overload.

Stretch of engineered cardiac tissue induces activation of neutral sphingomyelinase (nSMase), generation of ceramide, and disassembly of caveolae.

Activation of nSMase blunts cardiac β‐adrenergic contractile kinetics and mediates stretch‐induced slowing of conduction and upstroke velocity.

Circulating ceramides are increased in adults with hypertension, highlighting the clinical relevance of stretch‐induced nSMase activity.
Reduciendo escalas de valores
Authors: Castro-Manzano J.-Martín
Published: October 2023

Una escala de valores se puede definir mediante dos componentes: un conjunto de valores y una relación de orden. Estos dos componentes dan cuenta de algunas opiniones populares sobre las escalas de valores que favorecen una suerte de relativismo axiológico. En esta contribución proponemos una estrategia de reducción que nos permite aceptar dichos componentes sin necesariamente implicar un relativismo axiológico.
Numerical Treatment for the Solution of Stochastic Fractional Differential Equation Using Lerch Operational Matrix Method
Authors: Singh P. K. , Saha Ray S.
Published: October 2023

The article aims to propose the Lerch operational matrix method to solve a stochastic fractional differential equation. In this approach, the Lerch polynomials have been used as a basis function. Then, the product operational matrix, integral operational matrix, stochastic operational matrix, and operational matrix of fractional integral based on the Lerch polynomials have been constructed. The main characteristic of this method is to reduce the stochastic fractional differential equation into a system of algebraic equations by using derived operational matrices and suitable collocation points. Moreover, the convergence and error analysis of the presented method is also discussed in detail. Additionally, the applicability of the proposed technique is also demonstrated by solving some examples. To confirm the accuracy and effectiveness of the suggested technique, a comparison between the results produced by the proposed method and those obtained by other methods has been provided.
Robust Tip Gap Measurements: A Universal In-Situ Dynamic Calibration and Demonstration in a Two-Stage High-Speed Turbine
Authors: Castillo Sauca Antonio , Paniagua Guillermo
Published: October 2023

Tip clearance monitoring is essential for the active health monitoring of turbomachinery and their development toward more efficient systems. Proper sensor calibration is paramount to this purpose, frequently being a time-consuming process. This paper introduces a novel in situ dynamic calibration routine for high-frequency capacitance sensor measurements for tip clearance. The method predicts the calibration curve based on a single clearance measurement, the evolution of the acquired signal through various operational conditions, and the dimensional features of the multirim squealer-tip passing blades. The experimental data were obtained at 2 MHz in a state-of-the-art two-stage high-speed turbine operated by the purdue experimental turbine aerothermal lab (PETAL). A description of the empirical setup is provided, emphasizing the capacitance probes, the conditioning and acquisition systems, the metrology instruments used, and other ancillary instrumentation relevant to the calibration procedure. The prior filtering and data identification from the raw signal are detailed. The step-by-step development of the algorithm is presented, including justification of the curves imposed by the method. The resulting calibrations are provided, achieving accuracies of a few microns. The results are compared against previously used calibration techniques, emphasizing the potential advantages of the presented routine. Finally, the time-resolved tip clearance is analyzed against high-frequency aerothermal data within the gap region, identifying relationships between the tip gap, unsteady pressure, and heat flux on the shroud.
Investigation of the Defect Width Effect on the Burst Capacity of Composite-Repaired Pipelines With Corrosion Defects Using Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Silva R. , Zhou W.
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the effect of the defect width on the burst capacity of corroded pipelines repaired with fiber reinforced polymer composite. Parametric finite element analyses are carried out to evaluate the burst capacities of composite-repaired pipes containing localized and full-circumferential corrosion defects. The analysis results indicate that burst capacities of composite-repaired pipes containing localized defects can be markedly lower than those of composite-repaired pipes with full-circumferential defects. The burst capacity model derived from the design equation recommended in the ASME PCC-2 code is found to be nonconservative for composite-repaired pipes with localized defects based on the parametric finite element analyses. An empirical equation for the defect width correction factor is then developed and shown to be highly effective in improving the predictive accuracy of the PCC-2 burst capacity model.
Dynamic Electrochemical Action of Low Temperature Plasma Exposed NaFePO4/Activated BCC Nanocomposites in Cathode Applications
Authors: Saveetha S. , Vijayalakshmi K. A.
Published: October 2023

In this research, we designed a high performance cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries derived from cold plasma exposed NaFePO4/activated bamboo charcoal (BCC). XRD, FTIR, FESEM, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) were used to examine the crystal structure, functional groups, morphological features, and surface area of the composites. The material's surface characteristics, such as wettability, adhesion, and conductivity analysis, were proved, and the energy storage capacity of the material and these characteristics were magnified by exposure to DC glow discharge plasma. In this work, the NaFePO4/activated BCC was subjected to DC glow discharge plasma with various plasma producing gases. The electrochemical investigation shows that the air plasma-treated composite produces the best results when compared to the untreated sample. The enhancement of the diffusivity of the composite reveals that the plasma-treated materials are appropriate for energy storage devices.
Investigation on the Effects of Nanorefrigerants in a Combined Cycle of Ejector Refrigeration Cycle and Kalina Cycle
Authors: Seckin Candeniz
Published: October 2023

The main objective of this study is to carry out the thermodynamic analysis of a new power/refrigeration combined cycle which consists of an ejector refrigeration cycle (ERC) and a Kalina cycle. In ERC, nanorefrigerants are used as the working fluid. Used nanorefrigerants are homogenous mixtures of different base refrigerants (R134a, R152a, and R290) and nanoparticles (TiO2 and Al2O3) with 0–5 wt% nanoparticle concentration. The effects of variation in system operational parameters (nanoparticle mass fraction, evaporator pressure, condenser pressure) on energy efficiency and exergy efficiency of the combined cycle are reported. Additionally, net power production, refrigeration capacity, heat input to the combined cycle, and their exergy contents are given for the case of TiO2/R290 nanorefrigerant use in ERC. This study is the first ERC analysis in which the effect of R152a and R290 base refrigerants and TiO2 nanoparticle use on ERC performance is investigated. The results show that as the nanoparticle concentration and evaporator pressure increase and condenser pressure decreases, the energy and exergy efficiencies of the cycle increase. Under all the considered operational conditions of the combined cycle, the highest efficiency results are obtained for R290 and the lowest for R134a-based refrigerants.
Study on Additive Effect of Film Cooling Effectiveness in Two Rows of Fan-Shaped Holes
Authors: Li Chen , An Baitao , Liu Jianjun
Published: October 2023

The coolant jet interaction has a great influence on the superposition prediction of multirow film cooling. Although there have been many efforts to reveal the mechanics of additive effect in multirow film cooling, the available knowledge about developing the superposition method is still limited. The present work examines the film cooling effectiveness in two rows of fan-shaped holes by pressure sensitive paint technique, at the blowing ratios of 0.5–2.0 and the density ratio of 1.0. It is found that the impact of upstream flow on the downstream cooling film is reflected in the variation of turbulence intensity. The enhanced turbulence intensity is detrimental to the downstream film cooling effectiveness especially at the far away region. The mixing of upstream flow and coolant ejection starts at the leading edge of the hole exit. Thus, the streamwise width of the hole exit should be taken into consideration for better predicting the film cooling effectiveness around the holes. The cause of additive effect is that the coolant ejection at the second row affects the local mainstream entrainment. Then, a new correction factor, which characterizes the influence of coolant ejection on the mainstream entrainment of the upper row, is proposed for improving the classical Sellers method. The final result shows a good agreement with experimental data.
Understanding the Effect of Three-Dimensional Design in Tandem Blade
Authors: Kumar Amit , Kumar Akshay , Chhugani Hitesh , More Shubhali , Pradeep A. M.
Published: October 2023

In order to maximize the pressure ratio and efficiency, compressor designers have tried several unconventional design approaches. Tandem blading is one such unconventional design that promises a higher pressure ratio per stage through a higher diffusion factor. The nozzle shape created between the forward and aft blades of a tandem configuration acts as a passive boundary layer control mechanism. The boundary layer growth over the aft rotor is therefore effectively controlled with the help of this gap-nozzle flow. The flow complexity is likely to increase in the case of a tandem rotor due to the twin leakage vortices, twin wake regions, and their interaction with the hub and casing boundary layers. Modern compressor blades are often designed with three-dimensional blade techniques such as sweep, lean, dihedral, end bent, etc., to reduce the various losses and achieve optimum performance. However, to the best of the author’s knowledge, the effect of 3D blade designs on the performance of tandem rotors has not been fully explored so far. A comprehensive numerical investigation is undertaken to understand the effect of 3D designs on the performance of tandem blades. Axial sweep and dihedral failed to improve the performance of the tandem rotor. Significant improvement in the stall margin is observed for the forward chordwise-swept and negative lean tandem rotors and is largely attributed to lower tip incidence. The performance penalty of the forward-swept and negatively leaned cases can be reduced by integrating compound or variable lean and sweep into the design.
The Effects of Channel Supplies on Overall Film-Cooling Effectiveness
Authors: Veley Emma M. , Thole Karen A. , Bogard David G.
Published: October 2023

Cooling components in the hot section of a gas turbine are essential to component durability. Common methods of cooling include rib turbulators in internal passages and film cooling on external surfaces. The holes that produce the film cooling are fed from the internal channels often containing ribs. Consequently, there is an interdependence of internal heat transfer and external film cooling. The purpose of this study was to obtain a better understanding of the interaction of ribs and film cooling. To quantify the cooling performance, the surface temperatures were measured, from which overall effectiveness was calculated. For the experiments, additively manufactured test coupons were made of Inconel 718 to match engine Biot numbers. These test coupons had internal feed channels with and without ribs and had both cylindrical holes and meter-diffuser-shaped holes with 15 deg lateral expansion angles and a 1 deg forward expansion angle. A single rectangular channel was one type of feed channel. The other type of feed channel was individual circular channels, with each circular channel supplying an individual film-cooling hole. The experimental results showed that the circular individual channels have 80% higher baseline overall effectiveness than the single rectangular channels without any film cooling. Ribbed turbulators without film cooling also increased the overall effectiveness by 21% for single rectangular channels and by 29% for the circular individual channels compared to the respective non-ribbed channels. While the film cooling increased the overall effectiveness of all geometries, the single rectangular channels had increased overall effectiveness levels by up to twice that of the no film-cooling case. On average, the single rectangular channels had an 80% improvement from film cooling, whereas the individual channel feeds, on average, had only a 50% improvement, given their high baseline effectiveness levels.
Bone Conduction: A Linear Viscoelastic Mixed Lumped-Continuum Model for the Human Skin in the Acoustic Frequency Range
Authors: Lüchtrath Linda , Nijman Eugène
Published: October 2023

In conventional and skin-drive bone conduction, the performance of the exciter is strongly influenced by the mechanical impedance of the skin. This impedance is characterized by the resonance of the cutis on the underlying adipose layer. Although the existing Kelvin–Voigt-based lumped parameter skin model allows satisfactory approximation of the magnitude of the measured skin impedance, substantial deviations appear in the associated phase. The use of the existing skin model in coupled exciter-skin response calculations may thus lead to prediction errors at resonance peaks. The present work proposes an alternative model which considers the bending wave propagation in the cutis using a continuum model combined with a Zener material model for the underlying adipose tissue. It shows good agreement with the measurement results and leads to insights in the role of the different skin layers in the observed dynamic response.
Numerical Study on Keying Capacity of Gravity Installed Anchors in Sand
Authors: Liu Haixiao , Jiao Depeng , Li Zhou , Zhang Chenyang , Yang Yancheng
Published: October 2023

Being the latest representative of gravity installed anchors (GIAs), the OMNI-Max anchor can perform comprehensive behaviors in the seabed, like keying and diving, by adjusting orientation and position to derive higher capacity and to avoid anchor failure. During the keying process of GIAs, many factors may influence the keying capacity, such as the embedment depth, the anchor orientation, the rotational center, the bearing area, and the soil strength. Based on the coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian (CEL) technique, large deformation finite element analyses combined with a bounding-surface plasticity constitutive model are performed to investigate systematically the keying behavior of GIAs in sand. A series of analytical cases involving multiple factors are designed and analyzed to explore the effects of various factors on the keying capacity of GIAs, defined by the soil resistance coefficient during keying. The soil resistance coefficient increases with increasing soil density, while it tends to be stable with the increase of the embedment depth. The closer the rotational center approaches to the two ends of the anchor, the greater the soil resistance coefficient becomes. When the loading arm angle is in π/6–π/4, the soil resistance coefficient takes a relatively small value, while the degree of influence decreases with increasing embedment depth. An explicit expression of the soil resistance coefficient during keying is derived to quantify the effects of various factors, whose applicability and accuracy are validated by different ways. These findings are helpful to understand further the comprehensive anchor behaviors and to promote the application of GIAs in offshore engineering.
Understanding ion and atom fluxes during high-power impulse magnetron sputtering deposition of NbCx films from a compound target
Authors: Farahani M. , Kozák T. , Pajdarová A. D. , Bahr A. , Riedl H. , Zeman P.
Published: October 2023

A combination of time-averaged mass spectroscopy (MS), time-averaged optical emission spectroscopy (OES), and plasma transport modeling was employed to understand the transport processes of ions and atoms in high-power impulse magnetron sputtering discharges resulting in changes in the stoichiometry of NbCx films during their deposition from a stoichiometric NbC compound target at different repetition frequencies and duty cycles. Mass spectrometry showed that the fluxes of ions originating from the elements of the target increase with increasing pulse power density (and decreasing pulse length) due to an increasing electron density and, thus, electron-impact ionization probability. Due to the higher ionization energy and much lower ionization cross section of C (compared to Nb), it was found that the contribution of C+ ions to the deposition flux is practically negligible. Additionally, OES tracked the densities of ions and atoms at different distances from the target. The OES analysis revealed that the atom densities decreased as the pulse power density increased. In contrast, the ion densities exhibited an increase, which is consistent with the findings of MS. Using the data from MS, OES, and modeling, we were able to estimate the fluxes of atoms to the substrate. Our observations demonstrated a transition from C-rich toward Nb-rich flux of film-forming species with increasing pulse power density, corresponding to changes in the film composition. We further discuss the role of internal plasma processes that are responsible for this transition.
Hard x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy reference spectra of Bi with Cr Kα excitation
Authors: Zheng Dong , Young Christopher N. , Stickle William F.
Published: October 2023

Hard x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy using monochromatic Cr Kα radiation (5414.8 eV) has been used to acquire XPS and Auger data on a sputtered Bi sample. Survey data, high-resolution scans of observed photoelectron peaks, and high-resolution scans of Auger lines are presented herein.
Hard x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy reference spectra of Pb with Cr Kα excitation
Authors: Zheng Dong , Young Christopher N. , Stickle William F.
Published: October 2023

Monochromatic Cr Kα radiation (5414.8 eV) has been used to acquire XPS and Auger data on a lead sample. Survey data, high-resolution scans of all observed photoelectron peaks, and high-resolution scans of Auger lines are presented herein.
The Effect of Sex, Maturity, and Training Status on Maximal Sprint Performance Kinetics
Authors: Runacres Adam , Mackintosh Kelly A. , McNarry Melitta A.
Published: October 2023

Purpose: The development of sprint running during youth has received renewed interest, but questions remain regarding the development of speed in youth, especially the influences of sex, training, and maturity status. Methods: One hundred and forty-seven team sport trained (69 girls; 14.3 [2.1] y) and 113 untrained (64 girls; 13.8 [2.7] y) youth completed two 30-m sprints separated by 2-minute active rest. Velocity was measured using a radar gun at >46 Hz, with power and force variables derived from a force–velocity–power profile. Results: Boys produced a significantly higher absolute peak power (741 [272] vs 645 [229] W; P < .01) and force (431 [124] vs 398 [125] N; P < .01) than girls, irrespective of maturity and training status. However, there was a greater sex difference in relative mean power and peak velocity in circa peak height velocity adolescents (46.9% and 19.8%, respectively) compared with prepeak height velocity (5.4% and 3.2%) or postpeak height velocity youth (11.6% and 5.6%). Conclusions: Sprint development in youth is sexually dimorphic which needs considering when devising long-term training plans. Further research is needed to explore the independent, and combined, effects of sex, training, and maturity status on sprint performance kinetics in youth.
Direct observations of melting, freezing, and ocean circulation in an ice shelf basal crevasse
Authors: Washam Peter , Lawrence Justin D. , Stevens Craig L. , Hulbe Christina L. , Horgan Huw J. , Robinson Natalie J. , Stewart Craig L. , Spears Anthony , Quartini Enrica , Hurwitz Benjamin , Meister Matthew R. , Mullen Andrew D. , Dichek Daniel J. , Bryson Frances , Schmidt Britney E.
Published: October 2023

Ocean conditions near the grounding zones of Antarctica’s ice shelves play a key role in controlling the outflow and mass balance of the ice sheet. However, ocean observations in these regions are largely absent. Here, we present a detailed spatial survey collected with an underwater vehicle in a basal crevasse located in the ocean cavity at the Ross Ice Shelf grounding zone. The observations depict fine-scale variability in ocean forcing that drives asymmetric melting along the lower crevasse sidewalls and freezing in the upper reaches of the crevasse. Freshwater release from melting at depth and salt rejection from freezing above drives an overturning circulation. This vertical circulation pattern overlays a dominant throughflow jet, which funnels water parallel to the coastline, orthogonal to the direction of tidal currents. Importantly, these data reveal that basal crevasses influence ocean circulation and mixing at ice shelf grounding zones to an extent previously unknown.
Electrically active smart adhesive for a perching-and-takeoff robot
Authors: Liu Haoran , Tian Hongmiao , Wang Duorui , Yuan Tengfei , Zhang Jinyu , Liu Guifang , Li Xiangming , Chen Xiaoliang , Wang Chunhui , Cai Shengqiang , Shao Jinyou
Published: October 2023

Perching-and-takeoff robot can effectively economize onboard power and achieve long endurance. However, dynamic perching on moving targets for a perching-and-takeoff robot is still challenging due to less autonomy to dynamically land, tremendous impact during landing, and weak contact adaptability to perching surfaces. Here, a self-sensing, impact-resistant, and contact-adaptable perching-and-takeoff robot based on all-in-one electrically active smart adhesives is proposed to reversibly perch on moving/static dry/wet surfaces and economize onboard energy. Thereinto, attachment structures with discrete pillars have contact adaptability on different dry/wet surfaces, stable adhesion, and anti-rebound; sandwich-like artificial muscles lower weight, enhance damping, simplify control, and achieve fast adhesion switching (on-off ratio approaching
∞
in several seconds); and the flexible pressure (0.204% per kilopascal)–and–deformation (force resolution, <2.5 millinewton) sensor enables the robot’s autonomy. Thus, the perching-and-takeoff robot equipped with electrically active smart adhesives exhibits tremendous advantages of soft materials over their rigid counterparts and promising application prospect of dynamic perching on moving targets.
Quasi-2D Dion-Jacobson phase perovskites as a promising material platform for stable and high-performance lasers
Authors: Wang Xuezhou , Jin Long , Sergeev Aleksandr , Liu Wei , Gu Songyun , Li Nan , Fan Kezhou , Chen Shih-chi , Wong Kam Sing , Sun Xiankai , Zhao Ni
Published: October 2023

Metal halide perovskites have shown outstanding optoelectronic and nonlinear optical properties; yet, to realize wafer-scale high-performance perovskite-integrated photonics, the materials also need to have excellent ambient stability and compatibility with nanofabrication processes. In this work, we introduce Dion-Jacobson (D-J) phase perovskites for photonic device applications. By combining self-assembled monolayer-assisted film growth with thermal pressing, we obtain a series of compact and extremely smooth D-J phase perovskite thin films that exhibit excellent stability during electron-beam lithography, solvent development, and rinse. Combining spectroscopic and morphological characterizations, we further demonstrate how organic spacers can be used to fine-tune the photophysical properties and processability of the perovskite films. The distributed-feedback lasers based on the D-J phase perovskites exhibit a low lasing threshold (5.5 μJ cm
−2
pumped with nanosecond laser), record high
Q
factor (up to 30,000), and excellent stability, with an unencapsulated device demonstrating a
T
90
beyond 60 hours in ambient conditions (50% relative humidity).
Ikaros is a principal regulator of Aire
+
mTEC homeostasis, thymic mimetic cell diversity, and central tolerance
Authors: Sin Jun Hyung , Sucharov Juliana , Kashyap Sujit , Wang Yi , Proekt Irina , Liu Xian , Parent Audrey V. , Gupta Alexander , Kastner Philippe , Chan Susan , Gardner James M. , Ntranos Vasilis , Miller Corey N. , Anderson Mark S. , Schjerven Hilde , Waterfield Michael R.
Published: October 2023

Mutations in the gene encoding the zinc-finger transcription factor Ikaros (
IKZF1
) are found in patients with immunodeficiency, leukemia, and autoimmunity. Although Ikaros has a well-established function in modulating gene expression programs important for hematopoietic development, its role in other cell types is less well defined. Here, we uncover functions for Ikaros in thymic epithelial lineage development in mice and show that
Ikzf1
expression in medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs) is required for both autoimmune regulator–positive (Aire
+
) mTEC development and tissue-specific antigen (TSA) gene expression. Accordingly, TEC-specific deletion of
Ikzf1
in mice results in a profound decrease in Aire
+
mTECs, a global loss of TSA gene expression, and the development of autoimmunity. Moreover, Ikaros shapes thymic mimetic cell diversity, and its deletion results in a marked expansion of thymic tuft cells and muscle-like mTECs and a loss of other Aire-dependent mimetic populations. Single-cell analysis reveals that Ikaros modulates core transcriptional programs in TECs that correlate with the observed cellular changes. Our findings highlight a previously undescribed role for Ikaros in regulating epithelial lineage development and function and suggest that failed thymic central tolerance could contribute to the autoimmunity seen in humans with
IKZF1
mutations.
Tetracycline resistance in
Listeria monocytogenes
and
L. innocua
from wild black bears (
Ursus americanus
) in the United States is mediated by novel transposable elements
Authors: Brown Phillip , Hernandez Kevin , Parsons Cameron , Chen Yi , Gould Nicholas , DePerno Christopher S. , Niedermeyer Jeffrey , Kathariou Sophia
Published: October 2023

Listeria monocytogenes
is a facultative intracellular foodborne pathogen and the causative agent of the severe disease listeriosis. It is found ubiquitously in the environment and exhibits innate resistance to certain antimicrobials, but acquired antimicrobial resistance remains relatively uncommon. Given the potentially dire health outcomes associated with listeriosis, acquisition of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by this pathogen is of considerable public health concern. AMR in
L. monocytogenes
has been surveyed frequently in strains of clinical and food origin, but much less commonly in wildlife. We analyzed 158 strains of
L. monocytogenes
and 27 of non-pathogenic
Listeria
spp. isolated from wild black bears (
Ursus americanus
) for resistance to a panel of antimicrobials. AMR was uncommon and noted mostly for tetracycline. Tetracycline resistance was more common in
Listeria innocua
than in
L. monocytogenes
. All tetracycline-resistant
L. monocytogenes
strains belonged to sequence type ST1039 and harbored the Tn
916
-like
tet
(M) transposon Tn
916.1039
in a conserved chromosomal location. In contrast, three different tetracycline resistance elements, i.e., the
tet
(M) elements Tn
5801.UAM
and Tn
5801.551
and the
tet
(S) element Tn
6000.205
, were identified among tetracycline-resistant strains of
L. innocua
. The greater prevalence and diversity of tetracycline resistance elements among bear-derived non-pathogenic
Listeria
strains suggest the potential of the latter to serve as reservoirs for retention and diversification of AMR determinants in this wildlife host and warrant their further monitoring and study.

IMPORTANCE

Listeria monocytogenes
causes severe foodborne illness and is the only human pathogen in the genus
Listeria
. Previous surveys of AMR in
Listeria
focused on clinical sources and food or food processing environments, with AMR in strains from wildlife and other natural ecosystems remaining under-explored. We analyzed 185 sequenced strains from wild black bears (
Ursus americanus
) from the United States, including 158 and 27
L
.
monocytogenes
and
L. innocua
, respectively. Tetracycline resistance was the most prevalent resistance trait. In
L
. monocytogenes, it was encountered exclusively in serotype 4b strains with the novel Tn
916
-like element Tn
916.1039
. In contrast, three distinct, novel tetracycline resistance elements (Tn
5801.UAM
,
Tn5801.551
, and Tn
6000.205
) were identified in
L. innocua
. Interestingly,
Tn5801.551
was identical to elements in
L. monocytogenes
from a major foodborne outbreak in the United States in 2011. The findings suggest the importance of wildlife and non-pathogenic
Listeria
species as reservoir for resistance elements in
Listeria
.
Recombinant outer membrane vesicles delivering eukaryotic expression plasmid of cytokines act as enhanced adjuvants against
Helicobacter pylori
infection in mice
Authors: Liu Qiong , Li Biaoxian , Lu Jiahui , Zhang Yejia , Shang Yinpan , Li Yi , Gong Tian , Zhang Chengsheng
Published: October 2023

The widespread prevalence of
Helicobacter pylori
(
H. pylori
) infection remains a great challenge to human health. The existing vaccines are not ideal for preventing
H. pylori
infection; thus, exploring highly effective adjuvants may improve the immunoprotective efficacy of
H. pylori
vaccines. In a previous study, we found that the outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), a type of nanoscale particle spontaneously produced by Gram-negative bacteria, could act as adjuvants to boost the immune responses to vaccine antigens. In this study, we explored the potential application of OMVs as delivery vectors for adjuvant development. We constructed recombinant OMVs containing eukaryotic expression plasmid of cytokines, including interleukin 17A or interferon-γ, and evaluated their function as adjuvants in combination with inactivated whole-cell vaccine (WCV) or UreB as vaccine antigens. Our results showed that recombinant OMVs as adjuvants could induce stronger humoral and mucosal immune responses in mice than wild-type
H. pylori
OMVs and the cholera toxin (CT) adjuvant. Additionally, the recombinant OMVs significantly promoted Th1/Th2/Th17-type immune responses. Furthermore, the recombinant OMV adjuvant induced more potent clearance of
H. pylori
than CT and wild-type OMVs. Our findings suggest that the recombinant OMVs coupled with cytokines may become potent adjuvants for the development of novel and effective vaccines against
H. pylori
infection.
Acute safeguarding essentials in modern-day paediatrics
Authors: Thomas Helen , Cromb Daniel , Jacob Hannah
Published: October 2023

This case series addresses the complexities of child safeguarding in modern-day paediatrics, exploring common themes and key pieces of legislation, while emphasising the centrality of the child’s welfare in decision-making at all times. It discusses the evolving nature of child protection, including the importance of a multiagency approach and the rising impact of the internet and social media on child welfare, necessitating awareness of online risks and the development of mitigation strategies. Each article presents a case vignette, prompts for consideration, discussions on specific safeguarding concerns, practical considerations, and relevant legislation. Key learning points are emphasised, with links to additional freely available online resources. Ultimately, the series aims to equip paediatric professionals with the necessary tools and techniques to manage safeguarding cases and prioritise the well-being of children and young people.
Long-term outcomes of deep anterior lamellar versus penetrating keratoplasty for keratoconus
Authors: Borderie Vincent Michel , Georgeon Cristina , Sandali Otman , Bouheraoua N
Published: October 2023

Aims

To compare the long-term outcomes of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) with penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in keratoconus.

Methods

Retrospective comparative case series (228 DALKs and 274 PKs). A biphasic linear model was used to describe the postoperative outcome of the endothelial cell density (ECD). Visual acuity, specular microscopy, corneal topography and optical coherence tomography findings were recorded.

Results

Graft survival of the 502 keratoconus eyes was 96.7 at 10 years and 95.6% at 20 years. Visual acuity improved from 20/378±5.1 lines preoperatively to 20/32±2.1 lines at 30 months. The corneal ECD decreased from 2494±382 cells/mm2to 1521±659 cells/mm2at 10 years. The mean simulated keratometry increased from 44.88±2.54 D at 1 year to 46.60±3.0 D at 3 years. The mean follow-up was 103.4 months for DALKs and 106.1 months for PKs. The cumulated incidence of postoperative ocular hypertension requiring treatment was significantly higher in PKs than in DALKs. The early- and late-phase rates of ECD loss were significantly lower in DALKs than in PKs. These figures in DALKs were 50% of those observed in PKs. The simulated mean keratometry was significantly higher in DALKs than in PKs in the mid but not in the long term. No significant differences in visual acuity were observed between both groups. Manual dissection-DALK featured slower visual recovery than PK and big bubble-DALK, whereas big bubble-DALK and PK featured similar visual recovery.

Conclusions

DALK featuring higher endothelial survival and lower risk of postoperative ocular hypertension may be superior to PK when indicated for keratoconus.
Team USA injury and illness incidence at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games
Authors: Anderson Travis , Cali Malia G , Clark Stephanie C , Hasley Ike , Larson Emily G , Noble-Taylor Kayle E , Robinson David M , Post Eric , Finnoff Jonathan T , Adams William M
Published: October 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the injury and illness incidence from Team USA athletes from the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games and assess any sex-based differences or differences between Olympic and Paralympic athletes.

Methods

Team USA Olympic (n=231, 48.5% female) and Team USA Paralympic (n=63, 22.2% female) athletes had medical encounters documented during the Games. Injuries and illnesses were defined according to the 2020 International Olympic Committee Consensus Statement and reviewed for accuracy by a physician. Incidence rates were calculated per 1000 athlete-days and further analysed by sex, sport, anatomical location, type of illness, injury event and injury mechanism, with incident rate ratios (IRRs) used for group comparisons.

Results

There were no differences in illness (Olympic illness, IRR=0.99 (95% CI 0.48 to 2.07), p=0.998; Paralympic illness, IRR=1.43 (95% CI 0.41 to 4.97), p=0.572) or injury rates (Olympic injury, IRR=0.63 (95% CI 0.39 to 1.03), p=0.062; Paralympic injury, IRR=1.01 (95% CI 0.43 to 2.35), p=0.988) between male and female (reference group) athletes. However, Olympic athletes had significantly lower illness (IRR=0.41 (95% CI 0.22 to 0.76), p=0.003) and injury (IRR=0.56 (95% CI 0.37 to 0.87), p=0.009) risks compared with Paralympic athletes.

Conclusion

No significant sex-related differences in injury or illness were detected in Team USA Olympic or Paralympic participating in the 2022 Beijing Winter Games. However, Paralympic athletes exhibited higher rates of injury and illness compared with their Olympic counterparts. This study highlights delegation-specific epidemiological data which may facilitate more focused approaches for injury and illness prevention.
Advances in molecular pathology, diagnosis, and treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Ilieva Hristelina , Vullaganti Mithila , Kwan Justin
Published: October 2023

Although the past two decades have produced exciting discoveries in the genetics and pathology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), progress in developing an effective therapy remains slow. This review summarizes the critical discoveries and outlines the advances in disease characterization, diagnosis, imaging, and biomarkers, along with the current status of approaches to ALS care and treatment. Additional knowledge of the factors driving disease progression and heterogeneity will hopefully soon transform the care for patients with ALS into an individualized, multi-prong approach able to prevent disease progression sufficiently to allow for a dignified life with limited disability.