bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantification of porcine lower thoracic spinal cord morphology with intact dura mater using high‐resolution μCT
Authors: Chin Justin , Settell Megan L. , Brucker‐Hahn Meagan K. , Lust Daniel , Zhang Jichu , Upadhye Aniruddha R. , Knudsen Bruce , Deshmukh Ashlesha , Ludwig Kip A. , Lavrov Igor A. , Crofton Andrew R. , Lempka Scott F. , Zhang Mingming , Shoffstall Andrew J.
Published: October 2024

Background and Purpose

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treating chronic intractable pain in the back, trunk, or limbs through stimulation of the dorsal column. Numerous studies have used swine as an analog of the human spinal cord to better understand SCS and further improve its efficacy. We performed high‐resolution imaging of the porcine spinal cord with intact dura mater using micro‐computed tomography (μCT) to construct detailed 3‐dimensional (3D) visualizations of the spinal cord and characterize the morphology of the dorsal and ventral rootlets.

Methods

We obtained spinal cords from Yorkshire/Landrace crossbred swine (N = 7), stained samples with osmium tetroxide, and performed μCT imaging of the T12‐T15 levels at isotropic voxel resolutions ranging from 3.3 to 50 μm. We measured the anatomical morphology using the 3D volumes and compared our results to measurements previously collected from swine and human spinal cords via microdissection techniques in prior literature.

Results

While the porcine thoracic‐lumbar spinal cord is a popular model for SCS, we highlight multiple notable differences compared to previously published T8‐T12 human measurements including rootlet counts (porcine dorsal/ventral: 12.2 ± 2.6, 26.6 ± 3.4; human dorsal/ventral: 5.3 ± 1.3, 4.4 ± 2.4), rootlet angles (porcine ventral‐rostral: 161 ± 1°, ventral‐caudal: 155 ± 6°, dorsal‐rostral: 148 ± 9°, dorsal‐caudal: 142 ± 6°; human ventral‐rostral: 170 ± 3°, ventral‐caudal: 22 ± 10°, dorsal‐rostral: 171 ± 3°, dorsal‐caudal: 15 ± 7°), and the presence and count of dorsal rootlet bundles.

Conclusions

Detailed measurements and highlighted differences between human and porcine spinal cords can inform variations in modeling and electrophysiological experiments between the two species. In contrast to other approaches for measuring the spinal cord and rootlet morphology, our method keeps the dura intact, reducing potential artifacts from dissection.
Mobile applications for promoting and supporting breastfeeding: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ziebart Monika , Kammermeier Michael , Koletzko Berthold , Patro‐Golab Bernadeta
Published: October 2024

Breastfeeding practices require improvement. We performed a systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and analytic observational studies to assess effects of mobile applications (apps) aiming to support and promote breastfeeding targeting pregnant women, mothers of infants or their partners, on breastfeeding outcomes. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL and Association of Computing Machinery Digital Library from 1 July 2008 to 29 November 2022, with lack of coverage of the most recent period before publication date being a limitation of this review. We performed meta‐analyses of findings from RCTs on primary outcomes, namely early breastfeeding initiation, exclusive and any breastfeeding rates. Joanna Briggs Institute tools were used for risk of bias assessment. Six RCTs, one quasi‐experimental and two cohort studies, mainly from high‐income countries, were included. Most studies focused on maternal app usage starting from pregnancy. One study targeted fathers as app‐users. Population characteristics, such as parity or delivery mode, apps scope of content and applied active components varied between studies. Main methodological limitations of studies were baseline differences between groups and lack of blinding. Compared to controls, app usage tended to increase the odds of exclusive breastfeeding. This nonsignificant effect was most pronounced at 1–1.5 months (n = 1294, odds ratio 1.45 (95% Confidence Interval, CI 0.83, 2.54), with considerable heterogeneity between studies [I2 77%]), but less so at 3 and 6 months post‐partum. The odds of early breastfeeding initiation, any breastfeeding at all time points were similar among groups. However, two cohort studies reported increased odds of exclusive and/or any breastfeeding at different time points. In conclusion, evidence is insufficient to show sustained beneficial effects of breastfeeding promotion and support through mobile apps on breastfeeding rates.
Hereditary spastic paraplegia with thin corpus callosum and SPG11 mutation: A neuropathological evaluation
Authors: Scherpelz Kathryn P. , Yoda Rebecca A. , Jayadev Suman , Davis Marie Y. , Hincks Joshua C. , Liachko Nicole F. , Bragg Robert M. , Cochoit Alexa , MacDonald Christine L. , Keene C. Dirk , Bird Thomas D. , Latimer Caitlin S.
Published: October 2024

Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) with thin corpus callosum can be due to a variety of genetic causes, the most common of which are biallelic variants in SPG11 (HSP11). Only six cases of neuropathologic examination of HSP11 have been reported. Here we present neuropathological findings in another case of HSP11 with novel mutation (homozygous c.6439_6442del) and clinical features of three additional cases of HSP11. These four cases of HSP11 had similar disease courses with prominent lower extremity weakness and spasticity but varied cognitive symptoms and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings. Neuropathological examination of one case included ex vivo MRI of the cerebrum, histologic and immunohistochemical evaluation, and Western blot for SPG11. The case was notable for a small cerebrum with decreased volume of cortex, white matter, and deep gray nuclei. The corpus callosum was thin, and the substantia nigra showed marked pallor. Microscopically, the cortex had normal lamination and mild loss of neurons with mild gliosis, the corpus callosum was thin with limited gliosis, and the substantia nigra had marked decrease in neurons and pigment, with minimal gliosis. In contrast, the basal ganglia, thalamus, and spinal cord (anterior horns, corticospinal, and spinocerebellar tracts) had prominent neuron loss and gliosis. Myelin‐laden macrophages were found in multiple sites but were most common in the corpus callosum. No hyperphosphorylated tau or TDP‐43 aggregates, Lewy bodies, or amyloid β plaques were found. Compared to control, SPG11 was absent in HSP11 brain and markers of autophagy were elevated by Western blot. Comparison with prior reports of HSP with thin corpus callosum and HSP11 demonstrates a disease with a broad range of structural changes of the brain, including features of abnormal development and degeneration.
Microbes as medicine
Authors: Daisley Brendan A. , Allen‐Vercoe Emma
Published: October 2024

Over the last two decades, advancements in sequencing technologies have significantly deepened our understanding of the human microbiome's complexity, leading to increased concerns about the detrimental effects of antibiotics on these intricate microbial ecosystems. Concurrently, the rise in antimicrobial resistance has intensified the focus on how beneficial microbes can be harnessed to treat diseases and improve health and offer potentially promising alternatives to traditional antibiotic treatments. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of both established and emerging microbe‐centric therapies, from probiotics to advanced microbial ecosystem therapeutics, examine the sophisticated ways in which microbes are used medicinally, and consider their impacts on microbiome homeostasis and health outcomes through a microbial ecology lens. In addition, we explore the concept of rewilding the human microbiome by reintroducing “missing microbes” from nonindustrialized societies and personalizing microbiome modulation to fit individual microbial profiles—highlighting several promising directions for future research. Ultimately, the advancements in sequencing technologies combined with innovative microbial therapies and personalized approaches herald a new era in medicine poised to address antibiotic resistance and improve health outcomes through targeted microbiome management.
Weight/height2: Mathematical overview of the world's most widely used adiposity index
Authors: Heymsfield Steven B. , Sorkin John D. , Thomas Diana M. , Yang Shengping , Heo Moonseong , McCarthy Cassidy , Brown Jasmine , Pietrobelli Angelo
Published: October 2024

A footnote in Adolphe Quetelet's classic 1835 Treatise on Man described his algebraic analysis of how body weight (
) varies with height (
) in adult males and females. Using data on 12 short and 12 tall subjects of each sex, Quetelet established the rule that
is approximately proportional (
) to H2 in adults; that is,
when
for some constant
. Quetelet's Rule (
), transformed and renamed in the twentieth century to body mass index (
), is now a globally applied phenotypic descriptor of adiposity at the individual and population level. The journey from footnote to ubiquitous adiposity measure traveled through hundreds of scientific reports and many more lay publications. The recent introduction of highly effective pharmacologic weight loss treatments has heightened scrutiny of BMI's origins and appropriateness as a gateway marker for diagnosing and monitoring people with obesity. This contemporary context prompted the current report that delves into the biological and mathematical paradigms that underlie the simple index
. Students and practitioners can improve or gain new insights into their understanding of BMI's historical origins and quantitative underpinning from the provided overview, facilitating informed use of BMI and related indices in research and clinical settings.
Mutation of a RING E3 ligase, OsDIRH2, enhances drought tolerance in rice with low stomata density
Authors: Kim Jong Ho , Cho A Young , Lim Sung Don , Jang Cheol Seong
Published: October 2024

Drought is a major environmental stress factor that negatively affects rice growth and yield. From a forward genetic perspective, we selected a drought‐insensitive TILLING line (ditl4) from a gamma‐ray‐induced core mutant population (M10). Under drought conditions, ditl4 exhibited greater fresh weight, survival rate, chlorophyll, proline, and soluble sugar contents, and lower H2O2 and MDA levels than wild‐type (WT). In addition, the activities of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase, were higher in ditl4 than in the WT. In the relative water loss assay, dilt4 showed significantly decreased leaf curling and water loss compared to WT. Also, the ratio of “closed” stomata aperture was increased in ditl4 under drought stress, suggesting reduced transpiration to prevent water loss. The ditl4 mutant showed decreased stomatal conductance, transpiration, and CO2 assimilation and increased water use efficiency due to the low density of stomata. Whole‐genome resequencing analysis of dilt4 identified a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in OsDIRH2 (LOC_Os11g39640), annotated as a RING‐H2 type E3 ligase, resulting in a premature stop codon. CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated knock‐out mutants (OsDIRH2a and OsDIRH2b) enhanced drought tolerance by lowering stomatal density compared to empty vector control plants. These findings suggested that ditl4 with low stomatal density would be useful as a genetic resource for a drought‐tolerant breeding program to improve water‐use efficiency.
Heartfelt choices: The influence of cardiac phase on free‐choice actions
Authors: Mussini Elena , Perrucci Mauro Gianni , Costantini Marcello , Ferri Francesca
Published: October 2024

The influence of cardiac phases on cognitive and sensorimotor functions is noteworthy. Specifically, during systole, as opposed to diastole, there is an observed enhancement in tasks demanding the suppression of instructed responses. This suggests that systole contributes to inhibitory control in motor functions. However, the extent to which systolic inhibition is significant in volitional free‐choice actions, such as choosing to execute or refrain from a cue‐initiated response, remains to be clarified. To fill this gap in the current literature, the purpose of this study was to test whether during the systole phase, compared with the diastole phase, the tendency to enact volitional actions decreased due to the systolic inhibitory effect. We used a modified version of the Go/No‐Go task with an added condition for volitional free‐choice actions, where participants could decide whether to respond or not, to test whether systolic inhibition could affect the volitional decision to act. The results showed that participants' responses were less frequent in systole than in diastole in the volitional action condition. Then, to test the robustness of the cardiac effect on volitional actions, we used two established manipulations: the Straw Breathing Manipulation and the Cold Pressor Test, which were able to induce anxiety and increase the heart rate, respectively. Results showed that the systole/diastole difference in the number of volitional action trials in which participants decided to respond tended to remain the same despite all manipulations. Overall, our results provide convergent evidence for the effect of the heart on the decision to act, an effect that appears independent of manipulations of both the physiological and psychological state of the individual.
Implications of Microalgal–Bacterial Interactions in Modern Aquaculture Practices: A Review of the Current Knowledge
Authors: Ali Sardar , Waqas Waqas , Bakky Md. Akibul Hasan , Zada Sahib , Saif Uddin Md , Hasan Md Tawheed , Shafiq Muhammad , Dildar Tariq , Hui Wang
Published: October 2024

Microalgae play a crucial role in aquaculture due to their nutritional value and antimicrobial properties, yet harvesting them can be energy intensive. To address this, microalgal–bacterial interactions have emerged as a sustainable approach, enhancing growth rates and wastewater treatment efficiency but also significantly improve nutrient cycling, particularly through the removal of ammonia and phosphorus. These interactions range from mutualism to antagonism, influencing nutrient exchange and ecological niche formation. Despite their potential, the integration of bacterial–microalgal consortia remains limited in aquaculture. This review aims to expand understanding of these interactions, their benefits, and their role in optimizing aquaculture systems. Various aspects of microalgae–bacterial interactions, including mutualistic and commensal relationships, antibiotics production by algae, and the algicidal role of bacteria, are discussed. Factors influencing these interactions, such as nutrient availability, the physical environment, chemical signaling, and microbial community composition, are also explored. The potential effects of microalgae–bacterial interactions on aquaculture, including enhanced revenue, efficiency, and ecological sustainability, are highlighted. Further research is needed to identify bacterial groups' influence on microalgal output and their potential for enhancing productivity in commercial aquaculture systems. Understanding and leveraging these microbial interactions could significantly improve aquaculture practices.
Fire triggers reestablishment of invasive grasses in a neotropical savanna under restoration
Authors: Giles André L. , Silva Mateus C. , Mazzochini Guilherme G. , Flores Bernardo M. , Rowland Lucy , de Britto Costa Patrícia , Cure Marcio B. , Monge Marcelo , Schmidt Isabel B. , Abrahão Anna , Sampaio Alexandre B. , de Almeira Côrtes Claudomiro , Oliveira Rafael S.
Published: October 2024

Excluding invasive grasses is a significant challenge for neotropical savanna restoration. Invasive grasses alter fire regimes with feedbacks on soil nutrient pools, favoring their own dominance over native species. Here we combine remote sensing with an opportunistic experiment to monitor a savanna under restoration before and after a large natural fire. We measured vegetation and soil fertility in a 4‐year‐old restoration area in Central Brazil, which was subsequently hit by a lightning fire. The restoration area was originally utilized as pasture, dominated by invasive grasses. Over the restoration period, native fast‐growing grasses replaced the invasive species. Within the first year after the fire, we found that the fire had reduced aboveground biomass, species diversity, and abundance of native species with acquisitive resource‐use strategies. Soil phosphorus and pH increased after the fire and favored the re‐invasion of exotic grass species. Our findings suggest that fire occurrence early in the restoration process may trigger exotic grass re‐invasion driven by soil nutrient enrichment. To diminish the re‐invasion risk from exotic grasses in savannas undergoing restoration, managers should beware of the early fire or manage soil fertility after fire events. Successful restoration may also benefit by incorporating native species with high post‐fire recovery capacity.
From agents of the people to agents of authority? How illiberal populism impacts interactions between regulatory agencies and external stakeholders
Authors: Dobbins Michael , Labanino Rafael
Published: October 2024

The decline in democratic quality and the increasing electoral popularity of illiberal populist parties are among the most notable global phenomena in the past 20 years. This article builds a bridge between the growing body of political science literature addressing how democratic backsliding impacts linkages between governments and organized interests and the public administration literature exploring how illiberal populists reshape the bureaucracy. Focusing on regulatory agencies in four post‐communist countries that have recently experienced varying degrees of democrating backsliding, we explore whether and how interactions between bureaucrats and interest groups have changed amid democratic decline. We find that even in the context of backsliding, professionalization (i.e. internal organizational development) and expertise provision are strong positive predictors of interest groups' access to regulators. However, our analysis unequivocally shows that exclusion by illiberal populist incumbent parties has a profound and negative effect on organizations' ability to reach bureaucracies.  We draw on a new survey dataset, which grasps relationships between organized interests and political institutions (i.e. governments, parties, regulatory agencies, parliaments) in the region.
Multisource information fusion for safety risk assessment in complex projects considering dependence and uncertainty
Authors: Guo Kai , Zhang Limao
Published: October 2024

The success of tunneling projects is crucial for infrastructure development. However, the potential leakage risk is particularly challenging due to the inherent uncertainties and fuzziness involved. To address this demanding challenge, a hybrid approach integrating the copula theory, cloud model, and risk matrix, is proposed. The dependence of multiple risk‐related influential factors is explored by the construct of the copula‐cloud model, and the diverse information is fused by applying the risk matrix to gain a crisp risk result. A case study is performed to test the applicability of the proposed approach, in which a risk index system consisting of nine critical factors is developed and Sobol‐enabled global sensitivity analysis (GSA) is incorporated to investigate the contributions of different factors to the risk magnitude. Key findings are as follows: (1) Risk statuses of the studied three tunnel sections are perceived as under grade I (safe), II (low‐risk), and III (medium‐risk), respectively, and the waterproof material aspect is found prone to deteriorating the tunnel sections. Furthermore, the proposed approach allows for a better understanding of the trends in the risk statuses of the tunnel sections. (2) Strong interactions between influential factors exist and exert impacts on the final risk results, proving the necessity of studying the factor dependence. (3) The developed neutral risk matrix presents a strong robustness and displays a higher recognition capacity in risk assessment. The novelty of this research lies in the consideration of the dependence and uncertainty in multisource information fusion with a hybrid copula‐cloud model, enabling to perform a robust risk assessment under different risk matrices with varying degrees of risk tolerance.
The Mind Hidden in Our Hands
Authors: Goldin‐Meadow Susan
Published: October 2024

Our hands are always with us and are used for communication all over the world. When children do not have an established language model to learn from, they use their hands to gesture, and these gestures take on the forms of language. In this role, the hands reveal the fundamental properties of the mind that give shape to language. When children do learn an established language, they again use their hands to gesture. These gestures do not look like language but form an integrated system with language. In this role, the hands can convey ideas not found in the language they accompany. In both contexts, gesture provides a clear view of the mind hidden in our hands.
Relative Tumour Volume in Canine Oral Melanoma Staging and Prognosis
Authors: Silva Marta L. , Martinho Inês , Rocha Margarida , Martano Marina , Spindler Kevin P. , Buracco Paolo , Giacobino Davide , Florindo Helena F. , Mestrinho Lisa A.
Published: October 2024

Melanoma is one of the most common canine oral malignant tumours and is highly aggressive and metastatic, even at the early stages of development. Surgery relies on wide excision of the primary tumour and regional lymphadenectomy, with or without adjuvant therapy. Tumour location and size are important when considering staging, which ultimately affects the curative intent of surgery. Nevertheless, absolute tumour volume (TV) is not related to the vast phenotypic variability within canine breeds. This study aimed to determine the cutoff values of two ratios—tumour‐to‐head volume (THR) and tumour‐to‐body volume (TBR)—and assess whether they could be associated with the odds of finding metastasis at presentation and/or the likelihood of achieving tumour‐free excision margins. A retrospective case series involving 51 dogs was used to evaluate the preoperative head/neck and chest computed tomography and histopathology of the primary mass and excised lymph nodes. Higher TV, THR% and TBR% values were associated with bone lysis and mitotic count (MC). The Ki67 index was significantly associated with local and distant metastases at presentation, whereas MC was associated with local metastasis alone. Tumour‐infiltrated surgical margins were associated with caudally located tumours, regardless of the tumour size. Dogs with lymph node metastasis at presentation were seven times more prone to have local relapse. TV, THR% and TBR% values were positively associated with local lymph node metastasis at presentation. Cutoff values for both TV and TBR% were proposed to predict lymph node metastasis at presentation (TV = 6.423 cm3 and TBR% = 0.043), being supported by post‐surgical survival analysis.
Experiences of clinical nurses with medication interruption: A systematic review and qualitative meta‐synthesis
Authors: Wang Qing , Ding Xiaotong , Zhu Mingyue , Chen Hongli , Yang Yanli , Wang Yanhong , Gan Zixuan , Chung Yuetfoon , Li Zheng
Published: October 2024

Background

Managing medication interruptions is considered one of the biggest dilemmas for nurses in clinical settings. To improve medication safety, it was imperative to conduct a systematic review to get a deeper understanding of nurses' experiences with medication interruptions.

Aims

A systematic review and qualitative meta‐synthesis aimed to explore clinical nurses' experiences of interruption during medication in hospitals.

Methods

Systematic searches were conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, Ovid Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Library from inception to January 2024. The search strategy included four groups of keywords: (1) qualitative research, (2) nurses, (3) medication interruption, and (4) experience. Critical Appraisal Skills Programme was used to assess the quality of the studies. Meta‐ethnography was utilized to synthesize the findings of the included studies.

Results

Nine articles published between 2012 and 2023 were included; the number of participants varied from 5 to 40, aged 20–68 years, and the majority were female. Four synthesized findings were identified as follows: (1) an inevitable part of the routine, (2) a decision‐making process, (3) working in a minefield, and (4) coping with interruption.

Linking Evidence to Action

Nurses embraced interruptions as an inherent component of clinical care. Previous experience and nursing culture, encompassing personal and professional aspects, significantly influence nurses' attitudes toward medication interruptions. It is crucial to incorporate the distinctive work experiences of nurses into techniques aimed at efficiently handling interruptions in future research. The registration number in PROSPERO is CRD42023470276.
Colouring versus density in integers and Hales–Jewett cubes
Authors: Reiher Christian , Rödl Vojtěch , Sales Marcelo
Published: October 2024

We construct for every integer and every real a set of integers which, when coloured with finitely many colours, contains a monochromatic ‐term arithmetic progression, whilst every finite has a subset of size that is free of arithmetic progressions of length . This answers a question of Erdős, Nešetřil and the second author. Moreover, we obtain an analogous multidimensional statement and a Hales–Jewett version of this result.
Reduced K+ build‐up in t‐tubules contributes to resistance of the diaphragm to myotonia
Authors: Myers Jessica H. , Denman Kirsten , Dupont Chris , Foy Brent D. , Rich Mark M.
Published: October 2024

Patients with myotonia congenita suffer from slowed muscle relaxation caused by hyperexcitability. The diaphragm is only mildly affected in myotonia congenita; discovery of the mechanism underlying its resistance to myotonia could identify novel therapeutic targets. Intracellular recordings from two mouse models of myotonia congenita revealed the diaphragm had less myotonia than either the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) or the soleus muscles. A mechanism contributing to resistance of the diaphragm to myotonia was reduced depolarization of the interspike membrane potential during repetitive firing of action potentials, a process driven by build‐up of K+ in small invaginations of muscle membrane known as t‐tubules. We explored differences between diaphragm and EDL that might underlie reduction of K+ build‐up in diaphragm t‐tubules. Smaller size of diaphragm fibres, which promotes diffusion of K+ out of t‐tubules, was identified as a contributor. Intracellular recording revealed slower repolarization of action potentials in diaphragm suggesting reduced Kv conductance. Higher resting membrane conductance was identified suggesting increased Kir conductance. Computer simulation found that a reduction of Kv conductance had little effect on K+ build‐up whereas increased Kir conductance lessened build‐up, although the effect was modest. Our data and computer simulation suggest opening of K+ channels during action potentials has little effect on K+ build‐up whereas opening of K+ channels during the interspike interval slightly lessens K+ build‐up. We conclude that activation of K+ channels may lessen myotonia by opposing depolarization to action potential threshold without worsening K+ build‐up in t‐tubules.

image

Key points

In mouse models of the muscle disease myotonia congenita, the diaphragm has much less myotonia (muscle stiffness) than the extensor digitorum longus or soleus muscles.

Identifying why the diaphragm is resistant to myotonia may help in developing novel therapy.

We found the reason the diaphragm has less myotonia is that it is less prone to depolarization caused by K+ build‐up in t‐tubules during repetitive firing of action potentials.

Smaller fibre size contributes to resistance to K+ build‐up with differences in K+ currents playing little role.

Our data suggest drugs that open K+ channels may be effective in treating myotonia as they may lessen excitability without worsening K+ build‐up in t‐tubules.
Effect of Pulse Current on Friction Coefficient of 7075-T6 Aluminum Alloy and Microstructure Analysis
Authors: Dou Shasha , Zhou Kang , Qian Haixu , Shi Haojie , Xia Jiansheng
Published: October 2024

A study on friction is necessary to improve the forming quality of stamped parts. It has been found that pulsed current can improve the forming properties of aluminum alloys, mainly in terms of Joule heat and electroplasticity. Thus, this article revolves around the effect of different current densities on the friction and wear of 7075-T6 aluminum alloy sheets. The change rule of friction coefficient under different current densities is derived through a friction test, and the variable friction simulation model is established. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) are used to analyze the micromorphology and elemental composition of the wear surface. The diffraction peaks of Al are analyzed by XRD, and grain size and dislocation density are calculated. Finally, the actual stamping results are compared with the simulation results. The results show that the friction coefficient decreases with the increase of current density when the current density is less than 10 A/mm2, and the wear mechanism is mainly abrasive wear. When the current density is greater than 10 A/mm2, the friction coefficient increases with the increase of current density and the wear mechanism is mainly adhesive and electrical wear. The grain size and dislocation density mainly depend on the electrical plasticity. The variable friction model's simulated thickness distribution and rebound results align more with the situation.
Micromechanical and Tribological Characterization of Fabricated Ti–6Al–4V Alloy Using Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Marichamy M. , Chockalingam K. , Arunachalam N.
Published: October 2024

In the dynamic era of advanced manufacturing technology, laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) have gained popularity in different domains due to its capability to build parts from bulk to miniature size with higher efficiency and precision. Ti–6Al–4V, a bio-inert metal alloy, possesses a unique blend of profound mechanical and biocompatibility attributes, making it highly suitable for implant applications. This study reports the fabrication of Ti–6Al–4V alloy for implant application via the L-PBF process. The objective is to enhance the micromechanical and tribological properties of the fabricated Ti–6Al–4V component by identifying the optimal processing conditions. The fabricated component exhibited a maximum hardness of 395.26 HV and a minimum frictional coefficient of 0.3193 at 195 W laser power, 900 mm/s scanning speed, and 70 μm hatching distance. The wear-rate and absorbed wear volume were measured as 1.265 × 10−5 mm3 N−1 min−1 and 0.3162 mm3, respectively, under sliding conditions. At optimal processing state, the printed surface displayed an alpha-phase morphology with homogeneous microstructural features due to uniform melting of powder particles that improved bond strength and minimized defects. This study offers an experimental insight into operational attributes, paving the way for accelerated production of Ti–6Al–4V alloy components using the L-PBF method and tailoring tribological properties to meet specific functional requirements.
A pyroxene-based quantum magnet with multiple magnetization plateaus
Authors: Jin Lun , Peng Shiyu , Rutherford Aya Nakano , Xu Xianghan , Ni Danrui , Yang Chen , Byeon Yen Ji , Xie Weiwei , Zhou Haidong , Dai Xi , Cava Robert J.
Published: October 2024

Pyroxenes (AMX2O6) consisting of infinite one-dimensional edge-sharing MO6chains and bridging XO4tetrahedra are fertile ground for finding quantum materials. Thus, here, we have studied calcium cobalt germanate (CaCoGe2O6) and calcium cobalt silicate (CaCoSi2O6) crystals in depth. Heat capacity data show that the spins in both compounds are dominantly Ising-like, even after being manipulated by high magnetic fields. On cooling below the Néel temperatures, a sharp field–induced transition in magnetization is observed for CaCoGe2O6, while multiple magnetization plateaus beneath the full saturation moment are spotted for CaCoSi2O6. Our analysis shows that these contrasting behaviors potentially arise from the different electron configurations of germanium and silicon, in which the 3d orbitals are filled in the former but empty in the latter, enabling electron hopping. Thus, silicate tetrahedra can aid the interchain superexchange pathway between cobalt(II) ion centers, while germanate ones tend to block it during magnetization.
Mechanisms regulating host cell death during
Leishmania
infection
Authors: Fernandes Juliane C. R. , Zamboni Dario S.
Published: October 2024

Parasites from the
Leishmania
genus are the causative agents of leishmaniasis and primarily reside within macrophages during mammalian infection. Their ability to establish intracellular infection provides a secure niche for proliferation while evading detection. However, successful multiplication within mammalian cells requires the orchestration of multiple mechanisms that control host cell viability. In contrast, innate immune cells, such as macrophages, can undergo different forms of cell death in response to pathogenic intracellular microbes. Thus, modulation of these different forms of host cell death is crucial for Leishmaniasis development. The regulation of host cell apoptosis, a form of programmed cell death, is crucial for sustaining parasites within viable host cells. Accordingly, several studies have demonstrated evasion of apoptosis induced by dermotropic and viscerotropic
Leishmania
species. Conversely, the prevention of pyroptosis, an inflammatory form of cell death, ensures the establishment of infection by silencing the release of mediators that could trigger massive proinflammatory responses. This manuscript explores how
Leishmania
regulates various host cell death pathways and overviews seminal studies on regulating host cell apoptosis by different
Leishmania
species.
Association between basal ganglia infarction and hemorrhagic transformation after mechanical thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke: insights from the DIRECT-MT trial
Authors: Chen Rundong , Hua Weilong , Zhang Yilei , Zhang Yongxin , Zhang Hongjian , Zhang Yongwei , Liu Jianmin , Yang Pengfei , Zhang Lei
Published: October 2024

Background

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) often leads to significant morbidity and mortality. Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is an effective intervention for large vessel occlusion strokes. However, hemorrhagic transformation (HT) remains a critical post-procedural complication. This study investigates the relationship between basal ganglia infarction (BGI) and the risk of HT, particularly focusing on hemorrhagic infarction (HI) and parenchymal hematoma (PH).

Methods

Data from the DIRECT-MT trial were analyzed. Patients were categorized based on the presence of BGI identified on initial non-contrast CT. HT was classified into HI and PH following the Heidelberg criteria. Multivariate logistic regression, propensity score matching (PSM), and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) were used to assess the association between BGI and HT.

Results

Among 607 patients, 273 had BGI. BGI was associated with a higher risk of HT, specifically PH. The incidence of PH in the BGI group was 20% compared with 11% in the non-BGI group. Adjusted analyses, including PSM and IPTW, confirmed the significant association between BGI and PH with an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of 2.51 (95% CI 1.49 to 4.22, P<0.001). However, no significant association was found between BGI and HI.

Conclusions

BGI significantly increases the risk of PH following MT for AIS, underscoring the need for tailored therapeutic strategies in managing these patients. No significant correlation was observed between BGI and HI. Future research should explore the underlying mechanisms and validate these findings across diverse populations to improve patient outcomes.
Treatment of lactoferrin and antimicrobial peptide N6 on bacterial enteritis caused by Escherichia coli in mice
Authors: Ma Xuanxuan , Zhang Kun , Yang Na , Hao Ya , Mao Ruoyu , Teng Da , Wang Jianhua
Published: October 2024

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) is a major cause of diarrhea in humans and animals. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of bovine lactoferrin (bLf) as an adjuvant combined with AMP (N6) in the treatment of E. coli-induced bacterial enteritis. Firstly, 40 female ICR mice were randomly divided into four groups. The ETEC-A, ETEC-B, and ETEC-C groups were gavaged with 0.2 mL of ETEC K88 at 5 × 109, 5 × 108, and 5 × 107 CFU/mL for three consecutive days, respectively, the CK control group was given PBS. Based on the clinical symptoms and intestinal changes, the optimal model dose of ETEC K88 was determined to be 5 × 108 CFU/mL. Sixty female ICR mice were randomly divided into six groups: CK group (uninfected), NC group (infected and untreated), N6 treatment group (20 mg/kg), bLf treatment group (100 mg/kg), bLf + N6-A treatment group (10 mg/kg N6+100 mg/kg bLf), and bLf + N6-B group (20 mg/kg N6+100 mg/kg bLf). The clinical symptoms, intestinal morphology, inflammatory response and serum metabolites were monitored. The results showed that compared with the NC group, the bLf-N6-A and bLf-N6-B treatment groups had significant reductions in TNF-α and IL-6, significant increases in IL-10, and significant reductions in endotoxin and DAO in plasma ( p < 0.05). Meanwhile, the bLf-N6-A and bLf-N6-B treatment groups significantly increased the expression of ZO-1, claudin-1 and occludin, increased the height of small intestinal mucosal villi and VH/CD after ETEC K88-induced intestinal injury ( p < 0.05). The combination of bLf and N6 relieved enteritis by balancing intestinal mucosal immunity, improving intestinal morphology and barrier function. BLf combined with N6 can be used as an effective therapeutic strategy for the treatment of bacterial enteritis.
Assessing soil mechanical resistance at different depths and compactation mapping at effective root zone
Authors: de Camargo Matheus Cavalheiro Moreira , Zanuz Jeniffer Seitenfus , Fortes Gabriel Martins , Soares Mauricio Fornalski , Tura Enrico Fleck , Winck José Eduardo Minussi , da Silva Michel Rocha , Zanon Alencar Junior , Streck Nereu Augusto
Published: October 2024

Soil compaction, a result of mechanical resistance to penetration, has a direct impact on yield potential by limiting root access to water and nutrients. Factors such as inadequate crop rotation, intensive mechanization, and trampling by animals contribute to compaction. Mitigation strategies include crop rotation, control of machinery traffic, the use of cover crops, and the use of mechanical techniques. Geostatistical methods in pedostatistics evaluate the spatial variability of soil properties. The aim of this study was to determine the penetration resistance in five soil layers (10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 cm), identify critical compaction regions, and quantify the economic impact of compaction management in a 230 ha farm in Alegrete, Brazil. A digital penetrometer was used to measure resistance and semivariograms were calculated using classical and robust estimators for interpolation. The evaluation of the economic impact took into account the variable cost differences between the total area and the area required for compaction. The analysis showed a gradual increase in compaction from the surface to the subsoil, with a highly compacted zone occurring at 20–30 cm, signaling the need for monitoring and intervention. The dependency analysis showed a well-defined structure. The results show that geostatistical tools can be used in the assessment of soil penetration resistance, especially in layers from 10 to 20 cm. An efficient identification and quantification of compacted zones within the cultivation area was achieved. This approach proves to be economically viable, especially in extensive farming, suggesting a wide application in agricultural compaction management.
Jeans analysis in fractional gravity
Authors: Ourabah Kamel
Published: October 2024

It has recently been demonstrated (Giusti in Phys Rev D 101:124029, 2020, https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevD.101.124029) that characteristic traits of Milgrom’s modified Newtonian dynamics (MOND) can be replicated from an entirely distinct framework: a fractional variant of Newtonian mechanics. To further assess its validity, this proposal needs to be tested in relevant astrophysical scenarios. Here, we investigate its implications on Jeans gravitational instability and related phenomena. We examine scenarios involving classical matter confined by gravity and extend our analysis to the quantum domain, through a Schrödinger–Newton approach. We also derive a generalized Lane–Emden equation associated with fractional gravity. Through comparisons between the derived stability criteria and the observed stability of Bok globules, we establish constraints on the theory’s parameters to align with observational data.
Deep Learning Recognition of Paroxysmal Kinesigenic Dyskinesia Based on EEG Functional Connectivity
Authors: Zhao Liang , Zou Renling , Jin Linpeng
Published: October 2024

Paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia (PKD) is a rare neurological disorder marked by transient involuntary movements triggered by sudden actions. Current diagnostic approaches, including genetic screening, face challenges in identifying secondary cases due to symptom overlap with other disorders. This study introduces a novel PKD recognition method utilizing a resting-state electroencephalogram (EEG) functional connectivity matrix and a deep learning architecture (AT-1CBL). Resting-state EEG data from 44 PKD patients and 44 healthy controls (HCs) were collected using a 128-channel EEG system. Functional connectivity matrices were computed and transformed into graph data to examine brain network property differences between PKD patients and controls through graph theory. Source localization was conducted to explore neural circuit differences in patients. The AT-1CBL model, integrating 1D-CNN and Bi-LSTM with attentional mechanisms, achieved a classification accuracy of 93.77% on phase lag index (PLI) features in the Theta band. Graph theoretic analysis revealed significant phase synchronization impairments in the Theta band of the functional brain network in PKD patients, particularly in the distribution of weak connections compared to HCs. Source localization analyses indicated greater differences in functional connectivity in sensorimotor regions and the frontal-limbic system in PKD patients, suggesting abnormalities in motor integration related to clinical symptoms. This study highlights the potential of deep learning models based on EEG functional connectivity for accurate and cost-effective PKD diagnosis, supporting the development of portable EEG devices for clinical monitoring and diagnosis. However, the limited dataset size may affect generalizability, and further exploration of multimodal data integration and advanced deep learning architectures is necessary to enhance the robustness of PKD diagnostic models.
Opto-Induced Topological Waveguide Transport in Metaplates
Authors: Liang Tianshu , Liu Ying , Gu Qingxiao
Published: October 2024

The introduction of wise materials into topological metamaterial design has become a hot topic. In this paper, by using liquid crystal elastomer film as the scatterer, an opto-topological metaplate is proposed. By changing the illumination pattern, spatial inversion symmetry is broken and opto-modulation of topological interface state is achieved. First, opto-deformation of the liquid crystal elastomer scatterer is investigated. Then the degeneracy and topological phase transition are discussed. The formation of the topological interface state and its robustness against geometric perturbations are demonstrated. At last, the parameter analysis is carried out to clarify the influence of scatterer radius and light intensity on the performance of metaplates. The results indicate that illumination can be utilized as a flexible switch to turn on/off topological waveguide transmission. The frequency region of the interface state relies on the scatterer radius and illumination intensity. The research about the opto-topological modulation of metaplate provides a new strategy in the design and fabrication of metamaterials.
The Unified Theoretical Model for Predicting the Full-Cycle Stability of Hydraulic Tunnels
Authors: Zhao Nannan , Shao Zhushan , Wu Kui
Published: October 2024

The stability of hydraulic tunnels is crucial to the safety of water conservancy and hydropower engineering. Previous studies mostly focused on evaluating the stability of hydraulic tunnels within a certain stage. This study presents a full-cycle stability prediction of hydraulic tunnels from the construction to the operation stages. The corresponding unified theoretical model is established, where the installation delay of lining is considered. On the premise that the rock satisfies the Hoek–Brown strength criterion, the mechanical responses of hydraulic tunnels are classified into six cases to discuss, according to the development laws of elastoplastic deformation of surrounding rock during the whole stage. The analytical solutions for the stress and displacement of surrounding rock are provided in each case, and the mathematical expressions are proposed for determining the critical support pressure (no plastic zone generated), minimum support pressure (no loosening zone generated) and critical water pressure (exchange of the directions of the maximum and minimum principal stresses), respectively. Furthermore, the reliability of the theoretical derivation is well verified by implementing it in two engineering projects and comparing it with previous solutions. Finally, a comprehensive parametric investigation is conducted based on the proposed theoretical model, including the geological strength index (GSI), disturbance coefficient ([Formula: see text] and water pressure ([Formula: see text]. It can be found that both the increase in the GSI value and the decrease in the [Formula: see text] value can cause a decrease in the plastic radius of the surrounding rock, thus leading to a decrease in the tunnel displacement. The directions of the principal stresses in the surrounding rock may exchange and the tangential tensile stresses will generate as the water pressure increases. The required critical water pressure becomes higher with a higher GSI value. The increases in the loosening radius of surrounding rock and the critical support pressure can be observed as the GSI value decreases. The results of this study can provide useful guidance for the design of hydraulic tunnels.