bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FMRP regulation of aggrecan mRNA translation controls perineuronal net development
Authors: van't Spijker Heleen M. , Richter Joel D.
Published: January 2024

Perineuronal nets (PNNs) are mesh‐like structures on the surfaces of parvalbumin‐expressing inhibitory and other neurons, and consist of proteoglycans such as aggrecan, brevican, and neurocan. PNNs regulate the Excitatory/Inhibitory (E/I) balance in the brain and are formed at the closure of critical periods of plasticity during development. PNN formation is disrupted in Fragile X Syndrome, which is caused by silencing of the fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 (Fmr1) gene and loss of its protein product FMRP. FXS is characterized by impaired synaptic plasticity resulting in neuronal hyperexcitability and E/I imbalance. Here, we investigate how PNN formation is altered in FXS. PNNs are reduced in Fmr1 KO mouse brain when examined by staining for the lectin Wisteria floribunda agglutin (WFA) and aggrecan. Examination of PNNs by WFA staining at P14 and P42 in the hippocampus, somatosensory cortex, and retrosplenial cortex shows that they were reduced in these brain regions at P14 but mostly less so at P42 in Fmr1 KO mice. However, some differential FMRP regulation of PNN development in these brain regions persists, perhaps caused by asynchrony in PNN development between brain regions in wild‐type animals. During development, aggrecan PNN levels in the brain were reduced in all brain regions in Fmr1 KO mice. Aggrecan mRNA levels were unchanged at these times, suggesting that FMRP is normally an activator of aggrecan mRNA translation. This hypothesis is buttressed by the observations that FMRP binds aggrecan mRNA and that ribosome profiling data show that aggrecan mRNA is associated with reduced numbers of ribosomes in Fmr1 KO mouse brain, indicating reduced translational efficiency. Moreover, aggrecan mRNA poly(A) tail length is also reduced in Fmr1 KO mouse brain, suggesting a relationship between polyadenylation and translational control. We propose a model where FMRP modulates PNN formation through translational up‐regulation of aggrecan mRNA polyadenylation and translation.

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An immersive virtual reality tool for assessing left and right unilateral spatial neglect
Authors: Thomasson Marine , Perez‐Marcos Daniel , Crottaz‐Herbette Sonia , Brenet Fanny , Saj Arnaud , Bernati Thérèse , Serino Andrea , Tadi Tej , Blanke Olaf , Ronchi Roberta
Published: January 2024

The reported rate of the occurrence of unilateral spatial neglect (USN) is highly variable likely due to the lack of validity and low sensitivity of classical tools used to assess it. Virtual reality (VR) assessments try to overcome these limitations by proposing immersive and complex environments. Nevertheless, existing VR‐based tasks are mostly focused only on near space and lack analysis of psychometric properties and/or clinical validation. The present study evaluates the clinical validity and sensitivity of a new immersive VR‐based task to assess USN in the extra‐personal space and examines the neuronal correlates of deficits of far space exploration. The task was administrated to two groups of patients with right (N = 28) or left (N = 11) hemispheric brain lesions, also undergoing classical paper‐and‐pencil assessment, as well as a group of healthy participants. Our VR‐based task detected 44% of neglect cases compared to 31% by paper‐and‐pencil tests in the total sample. Importantly, 30% of the patients (with right or left brain lesions) with no clear sign of USN on the paper‐and‐pencil tests performed outside the normal range in the VR‐based task. Voxel lesion‐symptom mapping revealed that deficits detected in VR were associated with lesions in insular and temporal cortex, part of the neural network involved in spatial processing. These results show that our immersive VR‐based task is efficient and sensitive in detecting mild to strong manifestations of USN affecting the extra‐personal space, which may be undetected using standard tools.
One session of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation induces mild and transient analgesic effects among female individuals with painful temporomandibular disorders
Authors: Herrero Babiloni Alberto , Provost Catherine , Charlebois‐Plante Camille , De Koninck Beatrice P. , Apinis‐Deshaies Amelie , Lavigne Gilles J. , Martel Marc O. , De Beaumont Louis
Published: January 2024

Objective

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are characterised by chronic pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and masticatory muscles. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has emerged as a potential non‐invasive treatment for chronic pain; however, its effectiveness in individuals with TMD has not been thoroughly investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the immediate and sustained (over seven consecutive days) effects of a single session of active rTMS compared to sham stimulation on pain intensity and pain unpleasantness in individuals with TMD.

Methods

A randomised, double‐blind, sham‐controlled trial enrolled 41 female participants with chronic TMD. Pain intensity and pain unpleasantness were assessed immediately pre‐ and post‐intervention, as well as twice daily for 21 days using electronic diaries. Secondary outcomes included pain interference, sleep quality, positive and negative affect and pain catastrophizing. Adverse effects were monitored. Repeated measures ANOVA and multilevel modelling regression analyses were employed for data analysis.

Result

Active rTMS demonstrated a significant immediate mild reduction in pain intensity and pain unpleasantness compared to sham stimulation. However, these effects were not sustained over the 7‐day post‐intervention period. No significant differences were observed between interventions for pain interference, sleep quality and negative affect. A minority of participants reported minor and transient side effects, including headaches and fatigue.

Conclusion

A single session of active rTMS was safe and led to immediate mild analgesic effects in individuals with TMD compared to sham stimulation. However, no significant differences were observed between interventions over the 7‐day post‐intervention period. Based on this study, rTMS stimulation appears to be a promising safe approach to be tested in TMD patients with longer stimulation protocols.
Availability of the seat belt defense: Implications for auto liability insurance
Authors: Born Patricia , Karl J. Bradley , Nyce Charles
Published: January 2024

A “seat belt defense” allows a defendant in a third‐party auto liability event to present evidence of seat belt nonuse to reduce a plaintiff's recovery. When successfully applied, the defense has a direct effect on reducing liability payouts by insurers for accidents. Our analysis reveals that seat belt defense laws are associated with a 10% reduction in auto claims costs, which equates to a reduction in loss costs of approximately $14 per insured vehicle. We find little evidence that the defense reduces accident frequency and no evidence that the defense affects seat belt usage. The lack of a deterrent effect on driving behavior suggests that the availability of the defense is not salient to drivers. The reduction in loss costs supports the notion that defense lawyers are aware of the defense and make use of it. The resulting effect of lowering insurance payouts may alleviate increasing auto insurance costs.
Sampling origins and directions affect the minimum sampling area in forest plots
Authors: He Chenqi , Fan Fan , Qiao Xiujuan , Zhou Zhang , Xu Han , Li Sheng , Zhu Jiangling , Wang Shaopeng , Tang Zhiyao , Fang Jingyun
Published: January 2024

Questions

The minimum sampling area (minimum area) is the smallest space that reflects species composition and characteristics of a plant community. The quantitative concept of minimum area is often estimated using species–area relationships (SARs) and has become the classical foundation for managing protected areas. However, sampling designs to determine the minimum area in different forest types have not been systematically evaluated.

Location

China.

Methods

We used tree census data from three forest dynamic plots, each with a size of 25–60 ha, in different climatic zones in China to determine the minimum areas of woody plants and to analyze the effects of species richness and topographic heterogeneity on the minimum areas by changing sampling origin and direction.

Results

We found that mainly sampling design affects the estimation of woody plant species richness and required minimum area in different forest types. The estimated size of the minimum areas required was several hectares and varied significantly with sampling origin and direction, and showed a difference of approximately 1.5–2 times in the forest plots. Topographic heterogeneity significantly affected the minimum area through changes in species composition.

Conclusions

Sampling origin and direction should be considered when using SARs to estimate the minimum area and species diversity in communities. Such a comprehensive approach of sampling can contribute to a better understanding of vegetation characteristics and the minimum area required for a conservation census in heterogeneous environments.
Whole‐genome CRISPR screens to understand Apicomplexan–host interactions
Authors: Hesping Eva , Boddey Justin A.
Published: January 2024

Apicomplexan parasites are aetiological agents of numerous diseases in humans and livestock. Functional genomics studies in these parasites enable the identification of biological mechanisms and protein functions that can be targeted for therapeutic intervention. Recent improvements in forward genetics and whole‐genome screens utilising CRISPR/Cas technology have revolutionised the functional analysis of genes during Apicomplexan infection of host cells. Here, we highlight key discoveries from CRISPR/Cas9 screens in Apicomplexa or their infected host cells and discuss remaining challenges to maximise this technology that may help answer fundamental questions about parasite–host interactions.
Investigating Parkinson's disease with dual high resolution pharyngeal manometry with impedance and videofluoroscopy
Authors: Saleem Shakeela , Miles Anna , Allen Jacqueline
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To characterize pharyngeal function in people with Parkinson's Disease using both high resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) and videofluoroscopy (VFSS) and to explore correlations between VFSS and HRIM metrics.

Methods

All participants received both VFSS and HRIM within 24 h‐time window. A standard VFSS protocol (IDDSI 0: 1 mL, 3 mL, 20 mL, and 100 mL) was performed. A solid‐state unidirectional catheter (36 pressure sensors) was used to acquire manometric data for triplicate swallows (IDDSI 0: 5 mL, 10 mL, 20 mL), quantitative swallow analysis was completed through Swallowtail™ and SwallowGateway™. Parameters were compared to published norms and statistical tests explored correlational associations (p < 0.05).

Results

Twenty‐one participants (76% male; mean age 70 years, SD7.16) with mild–moderate severity PD were recruited with 73% reporting Eating Assessment Tool (EAT‐10) scores ≥3 indicating swallow impairment. Compared to normal metrics, one third of participants had abnormally elevated hypopharyngeal contractile integral (HPCI), hypopharyngeal peak pressure, upper esophageal sphincter (UES) integrated relaxation pressure (UES IRP), and reduced UES maximum admittance. Five participants showed compromised swallow safety (Penetration‐Aspiration Scale score ≥6). One third of participants had abnormal VFSS values for pharyngoesophageal segment (PES) opening duration, maximum PES opening distance, and maximum hyoid displacement measures. Some HRIM metrics had a strong correlation with pharyngeal VFSS measures (r > 0.60, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study identifies early manometric signs of pharyngeal dysfunction in people with PD. The congruence of the VFSS and HRIM measures confirms the hypothesis of insidious early decline in swallow function in PD despite maintenance of airway safety (i.e., low aspiration rates).
ALDH3A1 upregulation inhibits neutrophils N2 polarization and halts oral cancer growth
Authors: He Ying , Qu Yi , Jin Shan , Zhang Yongfeng , Qin Lizheng
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Tumor‐associated neutrophils (TANs) are among the most abundant inflammatory cells in tumor microenvironment (TME). Aldehyde dehydrogenase 3A1 (ALDH3A1) is significantly reduced in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), ALDH3A1 overexpression suppresses tumorigenesis by inhibiting inflammation. This study investigated the relationship and mechanisms underlying the crosstalk between ALDH3A1 and TANs in OSCC.

Materials and Methods

Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were performed to investigate the abundance of TANs and the expression of ALDH3A1. dHL‐60 were induced with tumor‐conditioned media and recombinant IL‐6/IL‐8. The expression of key proteins in PI3K/AKT/NF‐κB pathway were detected by RT‐PCR and western blot. A xenograft model was utilized to examine the effect of ALDH3A1 on tumorigenicity and polarization of TANs.

Results

In patients with OSCC, TANs significantly increased and were associated with a worse prognosis. Additionally, ALDH3A1 negatively correlated with TANs infiltration and especially the N2 phenotype which was the prominent part in OSCC. Furthermore, our study demonstrated that tumor‐derived IL‐8 drives ALDH3A1‐mediated TANs N2 polarization in the TME through PI3K/AKT/NF‐κB pathway in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that TANs can serve as a prognostic biomarker and ALDH3A1 could be a promising therapeutic target for regulating TANs N2 polarization in antitumor therapy.
The LaCLE35 peptide modifies rootlet density and length in cluster roots of white lupin
Authors: Olt Philipp , Ding Wenli , Schulze Waltraud X. , Ludewig Uwe
Published: January 2024

White lupin (lupinus albus L.) forms special bottlebrush‐like root structures called cluster roots (CR) when phosphorus is low, to remobilise sparingly soluble phosphates in the soil. The molecular mechanisms that control the CR formation remain unknown. Root development in other plants is regulated by CLE 
(CLAVATA3/
EMBRYO SURROUNDING REGION (ESR)‐RELATED) peptides, which provide more precise control mechanisms than common phytohormones. This makes these peptides interesting candidates to be involved in CR formation, where fine tuning to environmental factors is required. In this study we present an analysis of CLE peptides in white lupin. The peptides LaCLE35 (RGVHyPSGANPLHN) and LaCLE55 (RRVHyPSCHyPDPLHN) reduced root growth and altered CR in hydroponically cultured white lupins. We demonstrate that rootlet density and rootlet length were locally, but not systemically, impaired by exogenously applied CLE35. The peptide was identified in the xylem sap. The inhibitory effect of CLE35 on root growth was attributed to arrested cell elongation in root tips. Taken together, CLE peptides affect both rootlet density and rootlet length, which are two critical factors for CR formation, and may be involved in fine tuning this peculiar root structure that is present in a few crops and many Proteaceae species, under low phosphorus availability.
Who, how, and when do children help? A systematic review of children's outgroup prosocial behavior
Authors: Moran Deidre , Liu Vivian , Taylor Laura
Published: January 2024

Given the ingroup bias in children's prosocial behaviors, understanding what characterizes and predicts children's prosocial behaviors directed at outgroups has implications for more harmonious intergroup relations. We conducted a systematic review outlining the important theoretical frameworks that drive research in this area and examined the targets, types, and predictors surrounding prosocial behavior toward socially relevant outgroups among children ages 3–12 years. A total of 24 studies were included in the narrative synthesis. A range of targets of prosocial behavior (i.e., who was the intended recipient of the act) was observed and included both individual outgroup members and the collective outgroup. The studies also varied in the types of outgroup prosocial behavior assessed, including resource allocation, helping intentions, and collective prosocial behavior. Predictors of prosocial behavior occurred at two levels: individual and contextual. Individual predictors included contact, outgroup stereotypes, essentialist beliefs, empathy and mentalization, and fairness. Contextual factors included geographic proximity, reciprocity and collaboration, cost of helping, structural inequality, and intergroup conflict. Finally, we focus on age‐related changes to map the developmental trajectory of both the characteristics and predictors of prosocial behaviors. In a divided world, the implications for future research on outgroup prosocial behavior during childhood are discussed. We also reflect on the need for future longitudinal and culturally embedded research.
The EU's carbon border adjustment mechanism: Shaped and saved by shifting multi‐level reinforcement?
Authors: Wettestad Jørgen
Published: January 2024

In April 2023, the EU institutions finally adopted an innovative international climate policy instrument: the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). As the long and winding road to a CBAM has included significant EU‐internal and EU‐external opposition, a “shifting Multi‐Level Reinforcement” (MLR) perspective is helpful for understanding this development. When France assumed initial leadership from 2007, skepticism to the WTO, generous amounts of free allowances, combined with a low carbon price, provided a strong oppositional force. Then, influential elements in the European Parliament called for a carbon border tax, which was subsequently included as a central ingredient in the “Fit for 55” package launched by the Commission, In the decisionmaking process, leadership involving all the previous forces resulted in an institutional reinforcement dynamic strong enough to counter EU‐internal as well as EU‐external challenges and ‘turbulence’. This case shows the relevance of an updated MLR perspective for understanding also other EU processes, taking into account the growing role of both policy packages and trilogues as decisionmaking tools, indicating a possible strengthened role for the Commission also in the decisionmaking phase.
An app to support oral hygiene care: Increasing attitudes, knowledge, and confidence in identifying oral health problems among caregivers of persons living with dementia
Authors: Ashida Sato , Beachy Tim R. , Killian Emily , Pinho Hianca , Donohoe Maria , Schneider Haley , Marchini Leonardo
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To develop and pilot test an App to help family and paid caregivers perform high quality oral hygiene care.

Methods

A prototype of the App was refined based on stakeholder feedback (e.g., dental care professionals, direct care providers, nursing home administrator, family caregivers). The refined App was pilot tested with 16 family caregivers and 15 paid care providers of persons living with dementia (PLWD). Participants completed a pre‐test, watched an App demonstration, used it for 2 weeks, and completed a post‐test. Surveys included both structured and open‐ended questions.

Results

Phase 1 data informed the refinement of the App that led to high acceptability and usability by the Phase 2 participants. Both family and paid caregivers reported a significant increase in attitudes toward providing oral hygiene care to frail older adults (p = .05 and p = .02 for family and paid providers, respectively), knowledge about oral health and care (p = .01 and p = .02), and ability to identify oral health problems (p = .005 and p = .01). Additionally, paid caregivers reported increase in perceived support available in providing oral hygiene care (p < .001).

Conclusion

Stakeholder engaged approach helped increase the acceptability and usability of the App that successfully increase caregivers’ attitude, knowledge, and abilities in oral hygiene care provision.
Exosomal miR‐126‐3p: Potential protection against vascular damage by regulating the SLC7A5/mTOR Signalling pathway in human umbilical vein endothelial cells
Authors: Zhu Ke , Liu Chen , Guo Xiaofang , Zhang Xuting , Xie Jiaxin , Xie Songmiao , Qi Qing , Yang Bin
Published: January 2024

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune connective tissue disease. Vascular damage is one of the important features of SSc, which affects the progression and prognosis of the disease. MiR‐126‐3p is an important microRNA (miRNA) that regulates vascular structure and function, which can be transported through exosomes. However, the role of miR‐126‐3p in vascular damage in SSc is still unclear. Therefore, we focused on the connection between miR‐126‐3p and vascular damage in SSc, as well as investigated the potential role of miR‐126‐3p in vascular damage in SSc. First, this study successfully extracted extracellular vesicles from clinical plasma samples and characterized the exosomes within them. Then, we predicted and screened the target pathway mammalian/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) and the target gene SLC7A5 of miR‐126‐3p through online databases. Next, we constructed SSc mice for in vivo studies. The results showed that the expression of miR‐126‐3p was decreased in the plasma exosomes, while the SLC7A5 expression, autophagy, and lipid peroxidation were increased in the aorta. Luciferase reporter gene assays demonstrated that miR‐126‐3p can bind to SLC7A5, resulting in a decrease in its expression. In vitro experiments have shown that exosomal miR‐126‐3p can be internalized by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The miR‐126‐3p group exhibited enhanced cell viability and tube formation ability, along with increased expression of the vascular formation marker CD31. Additionally, miR‐126‐3p downregulated the protein expression of SLC7A5 and LC3 in HUVECs, while upregulating the protein expression of mTOR, P62, PPARγ, and CPT‐1. However, the effects of miR‐126‐3p on HUVECs were counteracted by mTOR inhibitors and enhanced by mTOR activators. The results indicated that exosomal miR‐126‐3p has the potential to protect against vascular injury in SSc by regulating the SLC7A5/mTOR signalling pathway in HUVECs.
Easier, faster and safer: The social organization of drug dealing through encrypted messaging apps
Authors: Dewey Matías , Buzzetti Andrés
Published: January 2024

Encrypted messaging apps like Telegram have become an increasingly attractive tool for drug dealing. The combination of easy opening and closing of user communities, powerful anonymity features, and operability on smartphones is changing the way drugs are delivered at the end of the chain. However, much of the recent research on Internet‐based drug markets has focused on cryptomarkets, but also on social media and the clear web. Drawing on economic sociology literature on marketplaces and partial organizations, this article fills this gap by analyzing the social organization of drug economies based on messaging apps. We argue that this form of drug trade enhances the experience of both selling and consuming drugs. Based on a unique set of in‐depth interviews with drug sellers and users belonging to four different Telegram groups in Argentina, this article shows that Telegram communities offer a wider variety of substances, speed up drug delivery, create the perception that police detection is unlikely, and promote drug specialization among sellers. This research expands our understanding of how technology and specific organizational forms transform both drug provision and consumption.
Endometriosis and subfertility
Authors: Morris Guy , Lilly Claire , Jefferys Amanda , O'Donovan Oliver , Akande Valentine
Published: January 2024

Key content

Medical management of endometriosis is often contraceptive. In contrast, surgical treatment may improve the chance of spontaneous conception. There is conflicting evidence as to whether surgery improves outcomes with assisted conception, and this should be discussed with a specialist in reproductive medicine.

Surgery, particularly for ovarian endometriosis, can cause a decreased ovarian reserve and fertility preservation should be considered.

There is no standard approach to managing endometriosis in the fertility setting. It is important to take a holistic approach to diagnosis and management of the subfertile couple where endometriosis may be a contributing factor.

Learning objectives

To understand the mechanisms by which endometriosis can contribute to subfertility.

To understand the importance of a comprehensive assessment of the subfertile couple and the important factors that will inform an individualised management plan.

To develop a framework for managing endometriosis in the context of subfertility including fertility preservation
X‐ray irradiation effectively inactivated lymphocytes in transfusion in vivo monitored by the bioluminescence transfusion‐associated graft‐versus‐host disease model
Authors: Peng Dongxin , Bai Wenyuan , Zhang Can , Chang Xindai , Ma Ping , Wang Xiaohui , Sun Sujing , Zhan Linsheng
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives

Transfusion of cold‐stored whole blood is the preferred resuscitation method for trauma patients but may cause transfusion‐associated graft‐versus‐host disease (TA‐GVHD). Standard clinical practice to prevent this is to irradiate blood components with gamma‐rays. X‐ray irradiations are also a safe and effective alternative to gamma‐ray irradiation. We established a visual mouse model of TA‐GVHD to compare the viability and function of lymphocytes exposed to gamma‐ and x‐ray irradiation.

Materials and Methods

A haploidentical transplantation mouse model was established to simulate TA‐GVHD with Balb/c mice as donors and hybrid F1 CB6 mice (Balb/c × C57) as recipients. Spleen cells from Tg‐Fluc+ Balb/c mice were isolated and irradiated with gamma‐rays and x‐rays. Lymphocyte activation, apoptosis and proliferation post phorbol 1 2‐myristate 1 3‐acetate (PMA) stimulation were evaluated. After transfusion, we monitored Fluc+ lymphocytes daily by bioluminescence imaging. Recipients were euthanized on day 21, and tissues were examined pathologically and for inflammatory cytokines.

Results

The viability of gamma‐ or x‐ray irradiated lymphocytes decreased significantly with slight changes in proliferation in vivo after transfusion. Compared with the non‐irradiated group, both the gamma‐ and x‐ray irradiated groups showed significantly decreased clinical scoring and inflammatory cytokine levels. The fluorescence intensity of the body and target organs was reduced after irradiation.

Conclusion

No recipients acquired TA‐GVHD after lymphocyte transfusion subjected to gamma‐ or x‐rays, showing that x‐rays inactivate as well as gamma rays and are suitable for irradiating whole blood.
Novel regulatory variant in ABO intronic RUNX1 binding site inducing A3 phenotype
Authors: Thun Gian Andri , Gueuning Morgan , Sigurdardottir Sonja , Meyer Eduardo , Gourri Elise , Schneider Linda , Merki Yvonne , Trost Nadine , Neuenschwander Kathrin , Engström Charlotte , Frey Beat M. , Meyer Stefan , Mattle‐Greminger Maja P.
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives

Mixed‐field agglutination in ABO phenotyping (A3, B3) has been linked to genetically different blood cell populations such as in chimerism, or to rare variants in either ABO exon 7 or regulatory regions. Clarification of such cases is challenging and would greatly benefit from sequencing technologies that allow resolving full‐gene haplotypes at high resolution.

Materials and Methods

We used long‐read sequencing by Oxford Nanopore Technologies to sequence the entire ABO gene, amplified in two overlapping long‐range PCR fragments, in a blood donor presented with A3B phenotype. Confirmation analyses were carried out by Sanger sequencing and included samples from other family members.

Results

Our data revealed a novel heterozygous g.10924C>A variant on the ABO*A allele located in the transcription factor binding site for RUNX1 in intron 1 (+5.8 kb site). Inheritance was shown by the results of the donor's mother, who shared the novel variant and the anti‐A specific mixed‐field agglutination.

Conclusion

We discovered a regulatory variant in the 8‐bp RUNX1 motif of ABO, which extends current knowledge of three other variants affecting the same motif and also leading to A3 or B3 phenotypes. Overall, long‐range PCR combined with nanopore sequencing proved powerful and showed great potential as an emerging strategy for resolving cases with cryptic ABO phenotypes.
Compliance of blood donors in Germany with non‐sexual deferral criteria
Authors: Preußel Karina , Albrecht Stefan , Offergeld Ruth
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives

In addition to mandatory testing of blood donations, the deferral of donors in the case of various sexual and non‐sexual risk exposures ensures the safety of blood products in Germany. The study aimed to quantify non‐disclosure of non‐sexual risk exposures, as no data are available so far.

Materials and Methods

We conducted an anonymous online survey among whole‐blood donors with successful donations between January and March 2020. Data on travel to countries with endemic malaria, recent mild or febrile infections, tattoos or piercings and drug use were collected. We analysed non‐compliance in relation to donor demographics by multivariable analyses.

Results

Altogether, 5.4% of the donors were non‐compliant. Non‐disclosure was highest for mild infection with 3.3% of donors, followed by febrile infections (1.4%), travel to malaria endemic countries (0.7%) and body modifications (0.5%). Intravenous drug use was negligible in our study population. Age was a predictor for all investigated risks, with higher prevalence in younger age groups. Prevalence ratios for non‐disclosure of body modifications and mild infection were higher in females than males. Donation in blood establishments with mobile services was associated with higher non‐disclosure of mild infections.

Conclusion

The considerable degree of non‐compliance in some donor groups reflects the prevalence of risk factors in the underlying population (e.g., body modification) as well as probable tendency to socially desirable responding. Donor education should not focus exclusively on sexual risk behaviour, as undisclosed non‐sexual exposures may bear risks for recipients and donors.
PeleMP: The Multiphysics Solver for the Combustion Pele Adaptive Mesh Refinement Code Suite
Authors: Owen Landon D. , Ge Wenjun , Rieth Martin , Arienti Marco , Esclapez Lucas , Soriano Bruno S. , Mueller Michael E. , Day Marcus , Sankaran Ramanan , Chen Jacqueline H.
Published: January 2024

Combustion encompasses multiscale, multiphase reacting flow physics spanning a wide range of scales from the molecular scales, where chemical reactions occur, to the device scales, where the turbulent flow is affected by the geometry of the combustor. This scale disparity and the limited measurement capabilities from experiments make modeling combustion a significant challenge. Recent advancements in high-performance computing (HPC), particularly with the Department of Energy's Exascale Computing Project (ECP), have enabled high-fidelity simulations of practical applications to be performed. The major physics submodels, including chemical reactions, turbulence, sprays, soot, and thermal radiation, exhibit distinctive computational characteristics that need to be examined separately to ensure efficient utilization of computational resources. This paper presents the multiphysics solver for the Pele code suite, called PeleMP, which consists of models for spray, soot, and thermal radiation. The mathematical and algorithmic aspects of the model implementations are described in detail as well as the verification process. The computational performance of these models is benchmarked on multiple supercomputers, including Frontier, an exascale machine. Results are presented from production simulations of a turbulent sooting ethylene flame and a bluff-body swirl stabilized spray flame with sustainable aviation fuels to demonstrate the capability of the Pele codes for modeling practical combustion problems with multiphysics. This work is an important step toward the exascale computing era for high-fidelity combustion simulations providing physical insights and data for predictive modeling of real-world devices.
Comparison of Heat Transfer and Friction in Pipes With Various Internal Roughness
Authors: Raoufi Abdolreza , Williams Andrew D. , Metcalfe Craig , Trudeau Paul-Emile , Brinkerhoff Joshua , Warwaruk Lucas , Ghaemi Sina
Published: January 2024

The heat transfer and friction factor of turbulent pipe flows with different internal roughness are experimentally investigated. Three types of roughness in forms of a mesh, hemispherical elements, and a coil are added to the interior of pipes with an inner diameter of 52.5 mm. The working fluid is air, and the Reynolds numbers vary from 20,000 to 90,000 in increments of 10,000. For investigating the heat transfer, the pipe wall is heated to 375 °C while the inlet air remains at the room temperature. The measurements show that the mesh-type roughness results in a maximum Nusselt number, Nu, increase of approximately 6%, the pipes with hemispherical roughness increased the Nu by a maximum amount of 30%, and the coil increased Nu by up to 60% compared with the smooth pipe. The maximum increase of friction factor is 40% for the pipes with mesh-type roughness, 30% for pipes with hemispherical roughness, and 67% for pipes with coil roughness. The experimental results indicate that adding hemispherical and coil roughness to the internal surface of the pipe can lead to a significant improvement in the rate of heat transfer while adding a mesh-type roughness can have marginal improvements and comes with a large frictional loss penalty. The analysis shows that the highest thermohydraulic performance is achieved using the hemispherical roughness elements.
Research on the Hydroelastic Response of Ice Floes and Wave Scattering Field
Authors: Zhang Xi , Li Tingqiu , Liu Zuyuan
Published: January 2024

The marginal ice zone (MIZ) is the area between sea ice and open water, the structure of which is mainly determined by wave and ice interactions. Thus mastering the characteristics of MIZ is of great significance to the Arctic routes opening and the natural resources development. In this paper, the hydroelastic response of ice floes in waves is studied, a three-dimensional numerical wave tank is established based on the computational fluid dynamics technology. The finite volume method and finite element method are respectively utilized for the discrete fluid domain and ice domain. A mapping interface at the junction of the fluid and ice floes domains is created to perform data mapping by the shape function interpolation method and the least square method. This work presents a series of numerical simulations to study the fluid–solid interaction of waves and ice floes. Under the given incident wave parameters, the vertical bending deformation of ice floes with different shapes under the excitation of waves, the effect of ice floes' deformation on the wave field are studied, and the effect of wave overwash on the transmitted wave field is emphasized. Results show that the shape of the ice floes significantly affects its elastic deformation and scattered wave field, and the wave overwash phenomenon attenuates the scattering wave.
Reliability Analysis of Crack Growth Occurrence for a Secondary Hull Component Due to Vibration Excitation
Authors: Kolle Kleivane Siri , Leira Bernt J. , Steen Sverre
Published: January 2024

Ship hull vibration is a significant contributor to fatigue crack growth and the major sources of vibrations are found to be the main engine vibration excitation, the wave-induced springing and whipping loads, and the actions of the propeller. In the midship region, wave-induced loads and the main engine are the major contributors, whereas propeller excitation dominates in the aft region of the ship hull. No general method exists to solve all kinds of vibration problems and they need to be evaluated through a case-by-case approach. The complex and uncertain aspects of hull vibration and fatigue crack growth motivate the need for a reliability-based scheme for assessing the resulting fatigue crack propagation. In the present paper, a probabilistic formulation for the failure probability of the occurrence of crack propagation of a secondary hull component is outlined. A generic cargo hold model is analyzed with engine excitation and wave-induced loading as vibration sources, and a stochastic model for vibration response is outlined. The limit state is formulated as the possible occurrence of fatigue crack growth. The secondary hull component considered is a pipe stack support, which is a supporting component that attaches the cargo pipes to the wall inside a cargo tank. Different initial crack sizes are implemented to evaluate the adequacy of the applied stochastic model for vibration response and the accuracy of the estimated failure probability is assessed.
Heat Transfer Enhancement of Impinging Jet-Corrugated Solar Air Heaters
Authors: Raheem Aneeq , Siddique Waseem , Waheed Khalid , Aziz Imran , Javed Irfan , Iqbal Muhammad Numan , Salameh Tareq , Qureshi Kamran
Published: January 2024

Solar air heater (SAH) is one of many applications of solar energy, but it has low thermal performance. To cater to this issue, a novel corrugated jet-impinging channel has been proposed for the absorbing plate of SAHs. The Nusselt number, pressure loss pumping power, and friction factor were computed by experimental and numerical studies for three different arrangements of jets, i.e., 1 × 1 square, 2 × 2, and 3 × 3 jet array with three target plates, i.e., smooth, trapezoidal, and sinusoidal corrugated plates over the Reynolds number range of 1740–2700 and jet-to-target plate spacing of 5.1–14.6. It was observed that jet-to-target plate distance and multiple jets impinging can affect the heat transfer enhancement significantly. An optimization study has been performed using the statistical Taguchi method. The optimum value of Nusselt number was found for the trapezoidal corrugated target plate, with 3 × 3 multiple jet impingement, jet-to-target plate distance of 5.1, and Reynolds number value of 2700, while the optimum value of friction factor was found for 3 × 3 jet impingement. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and experimental data are found to be in good agreement. An increase of 11 times was observed in the thermal performance factor as compared to the base case. Trapezoidal corrugation seems to be the effective profile for SAHs.
A Root Cause of Curve Squeal: Self-Excited Frictional Vibration of a Wheelset–Track System
Authors: Feng Xiaohang , Chen Guangxiong , Song Qifeng , Dong Bingjie , Ren Wenjuan
Published: January 2024

When a metro vehicle navigates a tight curve, it invariably causes a squealing noise. Most researchers proposed the negative friction–velocity slope as the generation mechanism for curve squeal. However, some phenomena of railway curve squeal are still difficult to explain. The purpose of this paper is to establish a friction-coupling finite element model of the wheelset–track system that can accurately predict curve squeal and to examine the influence of different wheelset–track structures on the trend of curve squeal occurrence. It has been proposed that curve squealing is caused by self-excited frictional vibrations. The complex eigenvalue analysis (CEA) and transient dynamics analysis were applied to predict the unstable vibration of curve squeal. The impacts of the coefficient of friction between the rail and the wheel, wheel web plate shape, fastener damping, gauge, and negative friction–velocity slope on the curve squealing noise were studied. The results demonstrated that the predicted frequency corresponded to the main frequency of the squealing noise measured on-site. Simultaneously, a friction coefficient of 0.25 or higher resulted in a curve squeal with a frequency of 2153.9 Hz. An S-shaped web plate wheel, appropriate fastener damping, and gauge can reduce unstable vibrations and curve squealing when a metro vehicle navigates a tight curve. The negative friction–velocity slope has less influence on the tendency of curve squealing.
Investigation of the Effect of Underpressure Between Main and Dust Lip on the Performance of Radial Shaft Seals Under Instationary Shaft Movements
Authors: Stiemcke Yvo , Thielen Stefan , Schollmayer Tim , Koch Oliver
Published: January 2024

Radial shaft seals (RSS) are increasingly used in applications with highly dynamic rotational shaft movement, high accelerations, and frequent changes in the rotational direction, e.g. positioning robots. For such instationary conditions, the behavior of radial shaft seals has not been adequately understood yet. Therefore, under such conditions, radial shaft seals show leakage much more frequently than under stationary conditions. This is a problem especially in food processing or surface treatment processes where even the smallest amount of oil leakage can cause significant financial and reputational damage. Previous investigations have shown that leakage does mostly occur with shaft seals equipped with a contacting dust lip. Consequently, it is assumed, that the build up of negative pressure between dust and the main lip plays a role in the leakage mechanism. A measuring setup and evaluation strategy for measuring this underpressure during instationary shaft movements have been developed. A measurement regime with variation of different influential parameters has been conducted. Results show build up of a much higher underpressure when compared to stationary shaft rotation with severe impacts on the RSS’s operational behavior.
Investigation of Practical Delivery of Radical Species for Main Chamber Seeding Using a Radical-Generating Pre-Combustion Chamber
Authors: Beurlot Kyle , Jacobs Timothy , Vieira Greg , Olsen Daniel , Patterson Mark
Published: January 2024

Pre-combustion chambers are commonly used in large-bore natural gas compressor engines to extend the lean limit and repeatability of ignition while simultaneously providing emissions reduction benefits. By extension, prechambers reduce the overall greenhouse gas production at compressor stations and serve to improve the carbon footprint. A study to provide an initial numerical simulation screening of a new ignition technique in a Cooper-Bessemer GMV two stroke lean burn natural gas engine was conducted using Converge CFD software, guiding original equipment manufacturers and developers in improving combustion processes and reducing methane emissions. Prior to ignition by the primary prechamber, radical and intermediate product of combustion species were introduced into the main combustion chamber by means of a deliberately quenched secondary prechamber to boost mixture reactivity and assist flame propagation through unburned regions. A wide selection of chemical species for the radical and intermediate generating prechamber seeding injection were investigated, as well as three timings of injection and two distinct temperature levels. Across each of the tested conditions, an initial filtering was conducted to establish limits on combinations that produced undesired early ignitions in the main chamber, while non-igniting combinations were investigated for successful seeding potential. In the event of successful seeding, the concentrations of species specifically introduced by the radical and intermediate generating prechamber were compared against the surviving concentrations just before primary ignition, and the impact of the seeding on the combustion process and residual methane concentrations was determined. This study provides an initial numerical screening of a new ignition technique to determine if the approach is promising for reducing methane emissions through ignition system improvements and should be further examined with on-engine experimental evaluation.
Empirical Investigation of Reactivity-Controlled Compression Ignition Engine Fuelled by Ethanol and DME at Low Engine Load
Authors: LeBlanc Simon , Wang Linyan , Jin Long , Sandhu Navjot , Yu Xiao , Zheng Ming
Published: January 2024

Low-carbon fuels can reduce the carbon footprint within the transportation sector significantly. Upcoming emission regulations challenge diesel-fueled combustion engines, especially concerning NOx and smoke. Combustion strategies that enable low-temperature combustion can realize low NOx and soot emissions, simultaneously. Reactivity-charged compression ignition (RCCI) mode enables a range of applicable fuels and can perform with a wider load range. However, challenges persist with poor combustion efficiency at low-load RCCI. This work studies the dual-fuel combustion of high-pressure direct injection DME with port-fueled ethanol. The injection timing of DME was advanced until the RCCI combustion mode was apparent. The influence of premixed energy share (PES) of ethanol was compared under a similar load. Combustion and emissions were characterized by in-cylinder pressure measurement and exhaust emissions speciation. In a conventional dual-fuel combustion mode, the major proponent of exhaust hydrocarbon emissions was unburned ethanol. The advance of the injection timing lowered the proportion of unburned ethanol in the exhaust similarly among premixed energy shares. As a result, an 11% absolute increase in combustion efficiency was realized with an advanced injection timing from 355°CA to 300°CA. The NOx emissions were reduced. By employing a split injection strategy, RCCI pressure rise rates and NOx emissions could be further minimized. The results show that optimized fuel scheduling of DME-ethanol RCCI may establish low NOx and ultra-low smoke emissions with high combustion efficiency.
Numerical ellipsometry: Artificial intelligence for real-time, in situ absorbing film process control
Authors: Urban F. K. , Barton D.
Published: January 2024

Ellipsometry is a material analytical method in which the desired parameters, for example, film thickness and index of refraction, are related to the instrument measurements through Maxwell’s equations, light wavelength, and measurement geometry. Consequently, obtaining the desired parameters has required solving the model equations using a wide variety of methods. A commonly used method is least squares curve fitting, frequently the Levenberg–Marquardt method. This numerical method depends upon not only the model but also the initial estimates of solution, the possible interference of local minima, and the algorithm stopping conditions. Being iterative, it also takes nonzero time. The work here demonstrates the use of artificial intelligence in the form of a multilayer perceptron artificial neural network to avoid these problems and find solutions in the millisecond time scale. This noniterative, stable, and fast performance lends itself to real-time, in situ monitoring of thin film growth. Examples for thin (up to 30 nm) films will be given using a multilayer perceptron configuration consisting of four input and four output neurons with two hidden layers of 40 neurons each. Solutions are predicted by the artificial neural network at each wavelength independently and do not rely on fitting functions which express a relationship between optical properties and wavelength.
Processing and characterization of chalcopyrite semiconductors for photovoltaic applications
Authors: Rockett Angus
Published: January 2024

Professor Joseph “Joe” Greene taught me a great deal about research, leadership, and how to succeed. He was a mentor and a tireless advocate for me over the course of my career. This article summarizes some of the work that my research group carried out, inspired by Prof. Greene but not in direct collaboration with him. Three examples of these efforts are provided, epitaxial growth of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) on GaAs by sputter deposition, synthesis of Cu-Mo metastable alloys by sputter deposition, and recrystallization of CIGS deposited at high rates by treatment with metal halides. These works were carried out with many collaborators who are acknowledged in the description of the research carried out by them and in the references where full details can be found.