bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Inlet and Outlet Configuration on the Performance of Hollow Fiber Direct Contact Membrane Distillation
Authors: Asiri Jaber M. , Caspar Justin , Xue Guanyang , Oztekin Alparslan
Published: September 2023

Hollow fiber microporous membranes have been used widely in membrane distillation (MD) for seawater desalination applications due to their high surface area. The configurations of feed inlets and outlets significantly impact the performance of hollow fiber direct contact membrane distillation (HF-DCMD). An increase in feed inlets and outlets can also profoundly affect the system’s performance by reducing the concentration polarization at the membrane surface and increasing the mass transfer rate. These aspects are critical when designing and optimizing HF-DCMD systems for various applications such as water desalination and wastewater treatment. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were implemented to investigate the performance of HF-DCMD for a desalination process. The effect of inlet and outlet configuration in a tubular shell filled with hollow fiber membranes is examined in modules with a 31% packing ratio. The feed solution with a concentration of 35 g/L NaCl flows in the shell side while the permeated water flows inside the hollow fibers. The Navier-Stokes, mass and energy transport equations for laminar flows are solved with a coupled boundary condition to model the desalination process in the module. Various feed inlet and outlet configurations are considered, including one with an inlet and outlet normal to the shell’s axis (at the shell’s end surfaces) and others with inlets and outlets parallel to the axis. The module with an inlet and outlet at each shell end parallel performs better than other configurations. The permeate flux is enhanced by approximately 153% when four feed inlets are placed at the side wall of the shell. On the other hand, the study observed a slight increase in water production when multiple feed outlets are used.
Optimized Design and Control of a Multi-Temperature, Multi-Module Thermal Energy Storage Ensemble
Authors: Cooney Alanna Y. , Carey Van P.
Published: September 2023

Latent thermal energy storage (LTES) systems which store energy in a phase change material (PCM) are effective in bridging the gap between renewable energy supply and demand for applications such as concentrated solar plants and building heating and cooling systems. Cascaded LTES systems which use multiple PCMs with different melt temperatures can be used to improve performance by increasing energy and exergy efficiencies and increasing rates for charging and discharging. A multi-temperature, multi-module (MTMM) LTES ensemble controlled by an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) can further improve performance by allowing for various working fluid flow paths through the system which allow for the ensemble to adapt to dynamically changing and unforeseen operating conditions. The MTMM ensemble is optimized to control to dual objectives of meeting a target working fluid outlet temperature and minimizing the instantaneous rate of exergy destruction allowing it to both achieve operational reliability and maximize second law efficiencies. In this investigation, design optimization of the MTMM ensemble is explored by comparing various parallel and series configurations of modules and exploring the effects of TES module layout, PCM melt temperatures, and the overall heat transfer coefficient of individual modules on the performance of the ensemble. The results demonstrate the impact of optimization of design parameters on the performance of MTMM ensembles and the potential for the use of data driven optimizers such as genetic algorithms for design of MTMM ensembles. The performance of the MTMM ensemble with optimized design and adaptive ANN controller is demonstrated to achieve the exergy efficiency of a cascaded PCM system while also maintaining the flexibility needed to respond to dynamically changing operating conditions. This novel approach widens the potential applications of cascaded PCM by providing a means to standardize manufacturing to drive down system cost and allowing the system to adapt to dynamic operating conditions and unforeseen design parameters.
Design and large-scale nanofabrication of plasmonic solar light absorbers
Authors: Serra González M. , Keil M. , Deshpande R. , Kadkhodazadeh S. , Okulova N. , Taboryski R. J.
Published: September 2023

Surface plasmon resonances have been exploited for many applications due to their tunability, which is directly related to the geometry of nanostructures. Based on their dimension and material stack, the resonances can be tailored to achieve high absorbing or reflecting nanopatterned surfaces designed for specific wavelengths. While the preferred lithographic printing techniques in the field allow high precision and control of the structures, they are limited in throughput, thus restricting possible large-scale applications. In this work, we present a full process flow, which can produce hundreds of square meters of nanopillar arrays by combining resolution enhancement techniques (RETs) on a deep-UV stepper for fabricating a silicon master and roll-to-roll extrusion coating (R2R-EC) for its replication. We demonstrate optimized exposures with the combination of dipole off-axis illumination, triple cross-exposure, and the addition of assisted features on the mask design. By simulating the RETs compared to a conventional setup, we show how lithographic parameters such as the normalized image log-slope (NILS) improve from 0.90 to 2.05 or the resist image contrast (RIC) increases from 0.429 to 0.813. We confirm these results by printing wafer-size hexagonal and rectangular arrays of nanopillars with 340, 350, and 360 nm pitches and diameters ranging from 100 to 200 nm. We show the successful replication of both designs by R2R-EC, an industrial process, which produces hundred-meter rolls of patterned polymer. We demonstrate that after metallization, the samples are suitable for solar absorption by measuring their absorptance (absorbed to incident intensity) and comparing it with the solar irradiance peak. We achieve a 70% efficiency for both hexagonal and rectangular arrays at resonant peaks of 550 and 600 nm, respectively, where the hexagonal array better matches the solar irradiance peak. Additionally, the plasmonic samples block 78% of the heat radiation when compared to a plain black polymer foil for reference, making them more efficient for solar harvesting applications.
Preliminary Baseline Vestibular Ocular Motor Screening Scores in Pediatric Soccer Athletes
Authors: Anderson Morgan , Tomczyk Christopher P. , Zynda Aaron J. , Pollard-McGrandy Alyssa , Loftin Megan C. , Covassin Tracey
Published: September 2023

Context: The utility of baseline vestibular and ocular motor screening (VOMS) in high school and collegiate athletes is demonstrated throughout the literature; however, baseline VOMS data at the youth level are limited. In addition, with the recent adoption of the change scoring method, there is a need to document baseline VOMS total and change scores in a pediatric population. Objective: To document baseline VOMS total and change scores and to document the internal consistency of the VOMS in pediatric soccer athletes. We hypothesized that the VOMS would demonstrate strong internal consistency in pediatric soccer athletes. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: Pediatric soccer athletes (N = 110; range = 5–12 y) completed the VOMS at baseline. Descriptive statistics summarized demographic information, VOMS total scores, and VOMS change scores. Cronbach α assessed internal consistency for VOMS total scores and change scores. Results: Twenty-one (19.1%) participants had at least one total score above clinical cutoffs (≥2 on any VOMS component and ≥5 cm on average near point convergence). Forty (36.4%) participants had at least one change score above clinical cutoffs (≥1 on any VOMS component and ≥3 cm on average near point convergence). The internal consistency was strong for total scores with all VOMS components included (Cronbach α = .80) and change scores (Cronbach α = .89). Conclusions: Although results suggest VOMS items measure distinct components of the vestibular and ocular motor systems, caution should be taken when interpreting VOMS total and change scores in pediatric athletes, as overreporting symptoms is common, thereby impacting the false-positive rate.
Ankle Sprain History Does Not Significantly Alter Single- and Dual-Task Spatiotemporal Gait Mechanics
Authors: Willwerth Sarah B. , Lempke Landon B. , Lugade Vipul , Meehan William P. , Howell David R. , DeJong Lempke Alexandra F.
Published: September 2023

Context: Single- and dual-task walking gait assessments have been used to identify persistent movement and cognitive dysfunction among athletes with concussions. However, it is unclear whether previous ankle sprain injuries confound these outcomes during baseline testing. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of (1) ankle sprain history and (2) time since prior ankle sprain injury on single- and dual-task spatiotemporal gait outcomes and cognitive measures. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: We assessed 60 college Division-I athletes (31 with ankle sprain history; 13 females and 18 males, 19.3 [0.8] y; 29 with no ankle sprain history, 14 females and 15 males, 19.7 [0.9] y) who completed injury history forms and underwent concussion baseline testing. Athletes completed single- and dual-task gait assessments by walking back and forth along an 8-m walkway for 40 seconds. Athletes wore a smartphone with an associated mobile application on their lumbar spine to record spatiotemporal gait parameters and dual-task cognitive performance. Separate multivariate analyses of variance were used to assess the effects of ankle sprain injury history on spatiotemporal measures, gait variability, and cognitive performance. We performed a multivariate regression subanalysis on athletes who reported time since injury (n = 23) to assess temporal effects on gait and cognitive performance. Results: Athletes with and without a history of ankle sprains had comparable spatiotemporal and gait variability outcomes during single- (P = .42; P = .13) and dual-task (P = .75; P = .55) conditions. Additionally, ankle sprain injury history did not significantly influence cognitive performance (P = .35). Finally, time since ankle sprain did not significantly affect single- (P = .75) and dual-task gait (P = .69), nor cognitive performance (P = .19). Conclusions: Ankle sprain injury history did not significantly alter spatiotemporal gait outcomes nor cognitive performance during this common clinical assessment. Future studies may consider including athletes with ankle sprain injury history during concussion assessments.
Hip Muscle Strength, Range of Motion, and Functional Performance in Young Elite Male Australian Football Players
Authors: Girdwood Michael , Mentiplay Benjamin F. , Scholes Mark J. , Heerey Joshua J. , Crossley Kay M. , O’Brien Michael J.M. , Perraton Zuzana , Shawdon Anik , Kemp Joanne L.
Published: September 2023

Context: Hip and groin injuries are common in field sports such as football, with measurement of hip strength and range of motion (ROM) recommended for assessment of these conditions. We aimed to report hip strength, hip ROM, and functional task performance in young elite Australian football athletes. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: Fifty-eight newly drafted Australian Football League athletes completed hip abduction, adduction, internal rotation, external rotation, and flexion strength testing with an adjustable stabilized or hand-held dynamometer. Hip internal rotation and external rotation, bent knee fall out, and ankle dorsiflexion ROM were also measured. Players completed hop for distance, side bridge, and star excursion balance functional tests. We compared findings between the dominant and nondominant limbs. Results: We found small deficits unlikely to be clinically meaningful in the dominant limb for hip abduction and adduction strength, and a small deficit in the nondominant limb for external rotation strength and side bridge time. Athletes had lower hip internal rotation (mean difference 2.56°; 95% confidence interval, 0.87 to 4.26) and total rotation ROM (2.03°; 95% confidence interval, 0.06 to 4.01) on the dominant limb. Conclusions: There were no meaningful differences between dominant and nondominant limbs for hip strength, ROM, or functional tests. Our results may be used for benchmarking young male Australian football athletes when targeting optimal strength and returning from injury.
Where to live? Landfast sea ice shapes emperor penguin habitat around Antarctica
Authors: Labrousse Sara , Nerini David , Fraser Alexander D. , Salas Leonardo , Sumner Michael , Le Manach Frederic , Jenouvrier Stephanie , Iles David , LaRue Michelle
Published: September 2023

Predicting species survival in the face of climate change requires understanding the drivers that influence their distribution. Emperor penguins (
Aptenodytes forsteri
) incubate and rear chicks on landfast sea ice, whose extent, dynamics, and quality are expected to vary substantially due to climate change. Until recently, this species’ continent-wide observations were scarce, and knowledge on their distribution and habitat limited. Advances in satellite imagery now allow their observation and characterization of habitats across Antarctica at high resolution. Using circumpolar high-resolution satellite images, unique fast ice metrics, and geographic and biological factors, we identified diverse penguin habitats across the continent, with no significant difference between areas with penguins or not. There is a clear geographic partitioning of colonies with respect to their defining habitat characteristics, indicating possible behavioral plasticity among different metapopulations. This coincides with geographic structures found in previous genetic studies. Given projections of quasi-extinction for this species in 2100, this study provides essential information for conservation measures.
Reducing sprint time with exosuit assistance in the real world
Authors: Moon Junyoung , Nam Kimoon , Ryu Jaewook , Kim Yoosun , Yun Juseok , Yang Seungtae , Yang Jaeha , Lee Giuk
Published: September 2023

Hip extension assistance with the aid of exosuits can reduce sprinting time.
Secreted folate receptor γ drives fibrogenesis in metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis by amplifying TGFβ signaling in hepatic stellate cells
Authors: Quinn Connor , Rico Mario C. , Merali Carmen , Barrero Carlos A. , Perez-Leal Oscar , Mischley Victoria , Karanicolas John , Friedman Scott L. , Merali Salim
Published: September 2023

Hepatic fibrosis is the primary determinant of mortality in patients with metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Transforming growth factor–β (TGFβ), a master profibrogenic cytokine, is a promising therapeutic target that has not yet been translated into an effective therapy in part because of liabilities associated with systemic TGFβ antagonism. We have identified that soluble folate receptor γ (FOLR3), which is expressed in humans but not in rodents, is a secreted protein that is elevated in the livers of patients with MASH but not in those with metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease, those with type II diabetes, or healthy individuals. Global proteomics showed that FOLR3 was the most highly significant MASH-specific protein and was positively correlated with increasing fibrosis stage, consistent with stimulation of activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which are the key fibrogenic cells in the liver. Exposure of HSCs to exogenous FOLR3 led to elevated extracellular matrix (ECM) protein production, an effect synergistically potentiated by TGFβ1. We found that FOLR3 interacts with the serine protease HTRA1, a known regulator of TGFBR, and activates TGFβ signaling. Administration of human FOLR3 to mice induced severe bridging fibrosis and an ECM pattern resembling human MASH. Our study thus uncovers a role of FOLR3 in enhancing fibrosis.
Listeria monocytogenes
requires DHNA-dependent intracellular redox homeostasis facilitated by Ndh2 for survival and virulence
Authors: Smith Hans B. , Lee Kijeong , Freeman Matthew J. , Stevenson David M. , Amador-Noguez Daniel , Sauer John-Demian
Published: September 2023

Listeria monocytogenes
is a remarkably well-adapted facultative intracellular pathogen that can thrive in a wide range of ecological niches.
L. monocytogenes
maximizes its ability to generate energy from diverse carbon sources using a respiro-fermentative metabolism that can function under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Cellular respiration maintains redox homeostasis by regenerating NAD
+
while also generating a proton motive force. The end products of the menaquinone (MK) biosynthesis pathway are essential to drive both aerobic and anaerobic cellular respirations. We previously demonstrated that intermediates in the MK biosynthesis pathway, notably 1,4-dihydroxy-2-naphthoate (DHNA), are required for the survival and virulence of
L. monocytogenes
independent of their role in respiration. Furthermore, we found that restoration of NAD
+
/NADH ratio through expression of water-forming NADH oxidase could rescue phenotypes associated with DHNA deficiency. Here, we extend these findings to demonstrate that endogenous production or direct supplementation of DHNA restored both the cellular redox homeostasis and metabolic output of fermentation in
L. monocytogenes
. Furthermore, exogenous supplementation of DHNA rescues the
in vitro
growth and
ex vivo
virulence of
L. monocytogenes
DHNA-deficient mutants. Finally, we demonstrate that exogenous DHNA restores redox balance in
L. monocytogenes
specifically through the recently annotated NADH dehydrogenase Ndh2, independent of its role in the extracellular electron transport pathway. These data suggest that the production of DHNA may represent an additional layer of metabolic adaptability by
L. monocytogenes
to drive energy metabolism in the absence of respiration-favorable conditions.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
infection drives differential responses in the bone marrow hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells
Authors: Bobba Suhas , Howard Nicole C. , Das Shibali , Ahmed Mushtaq , Khan Nargis , Marchante Ignacio , Barreiro Luis B. , Sanz Joaquin , Divangahi Maziar , Khader Shabaana A.
Published: September 2023

Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) play a vital role in the host response to infection through the rapid and robust production of mature immune cells. These HSPC responses can be influenced, directly and indirectly, by pathogens as well. Infection with
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(
Mtb
) can drive lymphopoiesis through modulation of type I interferon (IFN) signaling. We have previously found that the presence of a drug resistance (DR)-conferring mutation in
Mtb
drives altered host-pathogen interactions and heightened type I IFN production
in vitro
. But the impacts of this DR mutation on
in vivo
host responses to
Mtb
infection, particularly the hematopoietic compartment, remain unexplored. Using a mouse model, we show that, while drug-sensitive
Mtb
infection induces expansion of HSPC subsets and a skew toward lymphopoiesis, DR
Mtb
infection fails to induce an expansion of these subsets and an accumulation of mature granulocytes in the bone marrow. Using single-cell RNA sequencing, we show that the HSCs from DR
Mtb
-infected mice fail to upregulate pathways related to cytokine signaling across all profiled HSC subsets. Collectively, our studies report a novel finding of a chronic infection that fails to induce a potent hematopoietic response that can be further investigated to understand pathogen-host interaction at the level of hematopoiesis.
Prohibitin1 facilitates viral replication by impairing the RIG-I-like receptor signaling pathway
Authors: Zou Jiahui , Tian Shan , Zhu Yinxing , Cheng Yanqing , Jiang Meijun , Tu Shaoyu , Jin Meilin , Chen Huanchun , Zhou Hongbo
Published: September 2023

Innate immunity plays an essential role in defending the host against pathogenic infections. Appropriate controls are required to exert antiviral effects and avoid inflammatory disorders, but the negative regulation mechanisms are not fully understood. Here, Prohibitin1 (PHB1) was identified as a negative regulator of innate immune responses. We found that PHB1 protein and mRNA levels were promoted by virus-induced beta interferon (IFN-β) and subsequently suppressed the antiviral innate immune responses, thereby facilitating the replication of multiple RNA viruses. Further studies revealed that PHB1 interacted with IFN regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) to restrain the binding of IRF3 to nuclear import proteins, thereby suppressing the nuclear import of IRF3 and the downstream production of IFN-β. In summary, we elucidated the mechanism by which PHB1 regulates host antiviral innate immunity by inhibiting the nuclear translocation of IRF3, which contributed to the understanding of IRF3 regulation and revealed a novel role of PHB1 in host innate immunity.

IMPORTANCE

Type I interferon (IFN-I), produced by the innate immune system, plays an essential role in host antiviral responses. Proper regulation of IFN-I production is required for the host to balance immune responses and prevent superfluous inflammation. IFN regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) and subsequent sensors are activated by RNA virus infection to induce IFN-I production. Therefore, proper regulation of IRF3 serves as an important way to control innate immunity and viral replication. Here, we first identified Prohibitin1 (PHB1) as a negative regulator of host IFN-I innate immune responses. Mechanistically, PHB1 inhibited the nucleus import of IRF3 by impairing its binding with importin subunit alpha-1 and importin subunit alpha-5. Our study demonstrates the mechanism by which PHB1 facilitates the replication of multiple RNA viruses and provides insights into the negative regulation of host immune responses.
Herpes simplex virus 1 immediate early transcription initiation, pause-release, elongation, and termination in the presence and absence of ICP4
Authors: Dunn Laura E. M. , Baines Joel D.
Published: September 2023

Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) transcription is tightly regulated in a temporal cascade, utilizing cellular RNA polymerase. We previously observed that infection with HSV-1 mutants lacking immediate early (IE) genes α0, α4, and α22 exhibited high levels of aberrant transcription across the viral genome at just 1.5 hpi. The strongest effect occurred in the absence of full-length ICP4 which is both an essential transcriptional activator and repressor. The goal of the current study was to define the mechanism of ICP4-mediated early transcriptional repression on the viral genome. Using PRO-Cap, PRO-Seq, GRO-Seq, and Nanopore direct RNA sequencing to analyze viral transcription, we found that initiation was elevated at viral promoters of all temporal classes in the absence of ICP4. Despite higher levels of initiation, transcription of non-IE genes was stalled within gene bodies and did not lead to production of mature mRNA. Thus, ICP4-independent mechanisms limit expression of viral genes that initiate prematurely. GRO-seq data also indicated rapid release from promoter proximal pausing, and rapid progression along HSV IE gene bodies, with termination as an important rate-limiting regulatory step. These findings highlight multiple mechanisms that HSV-1 employs to regulate early transcription and shows that ICP4’s repressive role is to restrict initiation, thereby ensuring correct progression of the temporal cascade.

IMPORTANCE

Infection with herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) leads to lifelong infection due to the virus’s remarkable ability to control transcription of its own genome, resulting in two transcriptional programs: lytic (highly active) and latent (restricted). The lytic program requires immediate early (IE) proteins to first repress transcription of late viral genes, which then undergo sequential de-repression, leading to a specific sequence of gene expression. Here, we show that the IE ICP4 functions to regulate the cascade by limiting RNA polymerase initiation at immediate early times. However, late viral genes that initiate too early in the absence of ICP4 do not yield mRNA as transcription stalls within gene bodies. It follows that other regulatory steps intercede to prevent elongation of genes at the incorrect time, demonstrating the precise control HSV-1 exerts over its own transcription.
A prospective randomized clinical trial to assess antibiotic pocket irrigation on tissue expander breast reconstruction
Authors: Walker Jennifer N. , Hanson Blake M. , Hunter Tayler , Simar Shelby R. , Duran Ramirez Jesus M. , Obernuefemann Chloe L. P. , Parikh Rajiv P. , Tenenbaum Marissa M. , Margenthaler Julie A. , Hultgren Scott J. , Myckatyn Terence M.
Published: September 2023

Bacterial infection is the most common complication following staged post-mastectomy breast reconstruction initiated with a tissue expander (TE). To limit bacterial infection, antibiotic irrigation of the surgical site is commonly performed despite little high-quality data to support this practice. We performed a prospective randomized control trial to compare the impact of saline irrigation alone to a triple antibiotic irrigation regimen (1 g cefazolin, 80 mg gentamicin, and 50,000 units of bacitracin in 500 mL of saline) for breast implant surgery. The microbiome in breasts with cancer (
n
= 16) was compared to those without (
n
= 16), as all patients (
n
= 16) had unilateral cancers but bilateral mastectomies (
n
= 32). Biologic and prosthetic specimens procured both at the time of mastectomy and during TE removal months later were analyzed for longitudinal comparison. Outcomes included clinical infection, bacterial abundance, and relative microbiome composition. No patient in either group suffered a reconstructive failure or developed an infection. Triple antibiotic irrigation administered at the time of immediate TE reconstruction did not reduce bacterial abundance or impact microbial diversity relative to saline irrigation at the time of planned exchange. Implanted prosthetic material adopted the microbial composition of the surrounding host tissue. In cancer-naïve breasts, relative to saline, antibiotic irrigation increased bacterial abundance on periprosthetic capsules (
P
= 0.03) and acellular dermal matrices (
P
= 0.04) and altered the microbiota on both. These data show that, relative to saline only, the use of triple antibiotic irrigation in TE breast reconstruction does impact the bacterial abundance and diversity of certain biomaterials from cancer-naïve breasts.

IMPORTANCE

The lifetime risk of breast cancer is ~13% in women and is treated with a mastectomy in ~50% of cases. The majority are reconstructed, usually starting with a tissue expander to help restore the volume for a subsequent permanent breast implant or the women’s own tissues. The biopsychosocial benefits of breast reconstruction, though, can be tempered by a high complication rate of at least 7% but over 30% in some women. Bacterial infection is the most common complication, and can lead to treatment delays, patient physical and emotional distress and escalating health care cost. To limit this risk, plastic surgeons have tried a variety of strategies to limit bacterial infection including irrigating the pocket created after removing the breast implant with antibiotic solutions, but good-quality data are scarce. Herein, we study the value of antibiotics in pocket irrigation using a robust randomized clinical trial design and molecular microbiology approaches.
Treatment outcomes and relapse in patients with
Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare
complex pulmonary disease
Authors: Chang Chia-Ling , Yu Chong-Jen , Hsueh Po-Ren , Chien Jung-Yien
Published: September 2023

The treatment responses and outcomes in patients with
Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare
complex pulmonary disease (MAC-PD) remain uncertain. This retrospective study was conducted in Taiwan between 2011 and 2020. A microbiological cure was defined as the requirement for a minimum of three consecutive negative cultures following culture conversion that continued until the completion of anti-MAC treatment. A total of 97 patients with MAC-PD were enrolled in this study. The sputum smear-negative conversion rate was 40% (19/47). Thirty (31%) patients achieved sputum culture-negative conversion rates within 3 years after treatment initiation. All patients with negative sputum culture conversion rates achieved microbiological cure. Patients treated with a macrolide + rifamycin + ethambutol (M + R + EMB)-based regimen had a higher microbiological cure rate than the other patients (39% vs 17%,
P
= 0.023). Patients with persistently positive sputum smears after 6 months of treatment had a lower microbiological cure rate than those with negative sputum smears (6% vs 44%,
P
< 0.001). Among 30 patients with microbiological cure, the median time from sputum culture conversion to treatment completion was 221.5 (0–483) days, and the 1-year relapse rate was 17%. Treatment with the M + R + EMB-based regimen was associated with a higher microbiological cure rate, and patients with persistently positive sputum smears after 6 months of treatment had a lower microbiological cure rate.

IMPORTANCE

The treatment responses and outcomes in patients with
Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare
complex pulmonary disease (MAC-PD) remain uncertain. In this study, patients with MAC-PD treated with a macrolide + rifamycin + ethambutol (M + R + EMB)-based regimen had a higher microbiological cure rate than those treated with other regimens. After 6 months of treatment, patients with persistently positive sputum smears had a lower microbiological cure rate than those with negative sputum smears. Among patients with microbiological cure, the median time from sputum culture conversion to treatment completion was 221.5 days (range, 0–483), and the 1-year relapse rate was 17%.
Investigating the cecal microbiota of broilers raised in extensive and intensive production systems
Authors: Marcolla Camila S. , Ju Tingting , Lantz Hannah L. , Willing Benjamin P.
Published: September 2023

Intensive broiler production practices are structured to prevent the introduction and spread of pathogens; however, they can potentially minimize the exposure of broilers to beneficial commensal bacteria. In this study, we used 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing to characterize the cecal microbiota of 35-day-old broilers from 22 independent commercial farms rearing broilers under intensive (IPS) or extensive production systems (EPS). We aimed to determine which bacteria are normal inhabitants of the broiler ceca and which bacteria might be missing from broilers in IPS. In addition, we generated a collection of 410 bacterial isolates, including 87 different species, to be used as a resource to further explore the effects of selected isolates on bird physiology and to elucidate the role of individual species within the cecal microbial community. Our results indicated significant differences in the microbiota of broilers between systems: the microbiota of broilers from EPS was dominated by Bacteroidetes {55.2% ± 8.9 [mean ± standard deviation (SD)]}, whereas Firmicutes dominated the microbiota of broilers from IPS (61.7% ± 14.4, mean ± SD). Bacterial taxa found to be core in the EPS microbiota, including
Olsenella
,
Alistipes
,
Bacteroides
,
Barnesiella
,
Parabacteroides
,
Megamonas
, and
Parasutterella
, were shown to be infrequent or absent from the IPS microbiota, and the EPS microbiota presented higher phylogenetic diversity and greater predicted functional potential than that of broilers in IPS. The bacteria shown to be depleted in broilers from IPS should be further investigated for their effects on bird physiology and potential application as next-generation probiotics.

IMPORTANCE

Production practices in intensive farming systems significantly reduce the introduction and spread of pathogens; however, they may potentially minimize the exposure of animals to beneficial commensal microorganisms. In this study, we identified core bacteria from the cecal microbiota of broilers raised in extensive production systems that are missing or reduced in birds from intensive systems, including
Olsenella
,
Alistipes
,
Bacteroides
,
Barnesiella
,
Parabacteroides
,
Megamonas
, and
Parasutterella
. Furthermore, the cecal microbiota of broilers from extensive systems showed higher diversity and greater functional potential than that of broilers from intensive systems. In addition, a collection of bacterial isolates containing 87 different species was generated from the current study, and this important resource can be used to further explore the role of selected commensal bacteria on the microbial community and bird physiology.
Genomic and metabolic insights into the first host-associated isolate of
Psychrilyobacter
Authors: Liu Meijia , Wei Guangshan , Lai Qiliang , Huang Zhaobin , Li Min , Shao Zongze
Published: September 2023

Although gut bacteria are vital to their hosts, few studies have focused on marine animals.
Psychrilyobacter
is frequently related to various marine animals, but its interaction with host remains unknown due to the lack of host-associated isolate or genomic information. Here, we combined cultivation-independent and cultivation-dependent methods to uncover the potential roles of
Psychrilyobacter
in the host abalone. The high-throughput sequencing and literature compiling results indicated that
Psychrilyobacter
is widely distributed in marine and terrestrial ecosystems with both host-associated and free-living lifestyles, but with a strong niche preference in the guts of marine invertebrates, especially abalone. By
in vitro
enrichment that mimicked the gut inner environment, the first host-related pure culture of
Psychrilyobacter
was isolated from the abalone intestine. Phylogenetic, physiological, and biochemical characterizations suggested that it represents a novel species named
Psychrilyobacter haliotis
B1. Carbohydrate utilization experiments and genomic evidence indicated that B1 can utilize diverse host-food-related monosaccharides and disaccharides but not polysaccharides, implying its potential role in the downstream fermentation instead of the upstream food degradation in the gut. Particularly, this strain showed potential to colonize the gut and benefit the host via different strategies, such as the short-chain fatty acids generation by fermenting peptides and/or amino acids, and the putative production of diverse vitamins and antibiotics to support the host growth and antipathogenicity. To our knowledge, strain B1 represents the first host-related pure culture of
Psychrilyobacter
; genomic and metabolic evidence showed some beneficial characteristics of the dominant gut anaerobe to the host.

IMPORTANCE

Psychrilyobacter
is a globally distributed bacterial genus and with an inhabiting preference for guts of marine invertebrates. Due to the difficulty of cultivation and the limited genomic information, its role in host remains largely unknown. We isolated the first host-associated
Psychrilyobacter
species from abalone gut and uncovered its functional potential to the host through different mechanisms. Our findings provide some insights into the understanding of host-microbe interactions on a core taxon with the marine invertebrates, and the isolate may have an application potential in the protection of marine animals.
Insights into initial continental rifting of marginal seas from seismic evidence for slab relics in the mid-mantle of the Woodlark rift, southwestern Pacific
Authors: Yu Youqiang , Tilmann Frederik , Gao Stephen S. , Liu Kelly H. , Xi Jiaji
Published: September 2023

The initiation and evolution of marginal seas, especially those developing under a convergent setting, is one of the more enigmatic aspects of plate tectonics. Here, we report the presence of slab relics in the mid-mantle of the Woodlark rift in the southwestern Pacific based on a new map of the topography of the mantle discontinuities from a receiver function analysis and evidence from body-wave tomography. The widespread mantle transition-zone thickening rules out active mantle upwelling, and the revealed slab relics in both the upper and middle mantle may hydrate the upper mantle, which can be expected to further weaken the overlying lithosphere. Such a process can then promote initial continental rifting when this lithosphere is exposed to tensional stress like slab-pull stretching originating from the nearby active subduction.
Association of maternal risk factors with infant maltreatment: an administrative data cohort study
Authors: Smith Jennifer N , Guttmann Astrid , Kopp Alexander , Vandermorris Ashley , Shouldice Michelle , Harron Katie L
Published: September 2023

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the risk of infant maltreatment associated with commonly used criteria for home visiting programmes: young maternal age, maternal adversity (homelessness, substance abuse, intimate partner violence), newcomer status and mental health concerns in Ontario, Canada.

Design

This retrospective cohort study included infants born in hospital in Ontario from 1 April 2005 to 31 March 2017 captured in linked health administrative and demographic databases. Infants were followed from newborn hospitalisation until 1 year of age for child maltreatment captured in healthcare or death records. The association between type and number of maternal risk factors, and maltreatment, was analysed using multivariable logistic regression modelling, controlling for infant characteristics and material deprivation. Further modelling explored the association of each year of maternal age with maltreatment.

Results

Of 989 586 infants, 434 (0.04%) had recorded maltreatment. Maternal age <22 years conferred higher risk of infant maltreatment (adjusted OR (aOR) 5.5, 95% CI 4.5 to 6.8) compared with age ≥22 years. Maternal mental health diagnoses (aOR 2.0, 95% CI 1.6 to 2.5) were also associated with maltreatment, while refugee status appeared protective (aOR 0.6, 95% CI 0.4 to 1.0). The odds of maltreatment increased with higher numbers of maternal risk factors. Maternal age was associated with maltreatment until age 28 years.

Conclusion

Infants born to young mothers are at greater risk of infant maltreatment, and this association remained until age 28 years. These findings are important for ensuring public health interventions are supporting populations experiencing structural vulnerabilities with the aim of preventing maltreatment.
Intersection of mental health issues and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs): a narrative review by a subgroup of the IOC consensus on REDs
Authors: Pensgaard Anne Marte , Sundgot-Borgen Jorunn , Edwards Carla , Jacobsen Astrid Urenholdt , Mountjoy Margo
Published: September 2023

Overall athlete health is a stated priority by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), yet it can be difficult for athletes to safely balance nutritional needs, training load, recovery, social interactions, expectations and other demands. The effect of energy intake and, especially, low energy availability (LEA) on athlete mental health, is understudied. In this narrative review, we examine research that has included psychological factors and mental health variables when investigating the effect of LEA, dieting/restrictive eating and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs), since the 2018 IOC consensus statement on REDs. Based on currently available data, early psychological indicators associated with problematic LEA are mood changes, fatigue and psychological conflict. More severe mental health outcomes associated with REDs are reduced well-being, elevated anxiety, depressive symptoms and eating disorders. We propose a psychological model that helps structure how possible risk factors (eg, body dissatisfaction, environmental demands or increased training load) and moderating (eg, gender, sport) and/or potential mediating (eg, social climate, self-esteem) factors are associated with LEA and ultimately REDs. The current scientific literature underscores the importance of including mental health factors when screening for REDs and for developing a clinical approach to address the psychological sequelae of REDs once diagnosed. An interdisciplinary perspective is recommended. Lastly, and importantly, the athlete perspective urges clinicians to not underestimate the drive for success and denial of health consequences that athletes demonstrate when pursuing their sport goals.
GPi-DBS-induced brain metabolic activation in cervical dystonia
Authors: Honkanen Emma A , Rönkä Jaana , Pekkonen Eero , Aaltonen Juho , Koivu Maija , Eskola Olli , Eldebakey Hazem , Volkmann Jens , Kaasinen Valtteri , Reich Martin M , Joutsa Juho
Published: September 2023

Background

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the globus pallidus interna (GPi) is a highly efficacious treatment for cervical dystonia, but its mechanism of action is not fully understood. Here, we investigate the brain metabolic effects of GPi-DBS in cervical dystonia.

Methods

Eleven patients with GPi-DBS underwent brain 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography imaging during stimulation on and off. Changes in regional brain glucose metabolism were investigated at the active contact location and across the whole brain. Changes in motor symptom severity were quantified using the Toronto Western Spasmodic Torticollis Rating Scale (TWSTRS), executive function using trail making test (TMT) and parkinsonism using Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS).

Results

The mean (SD) best therapeutic response to DBS during the treatment was 81 (22)%. The TWSTRS score was 3.2 (3.9) points lower DBS on compared with off (p=0.02). At the stimulation site, stimulation was associated with increased metabolism, which correlated with DBS stimulation amplitude (r=0.70, p=0.03) but not with changes in motor symptom severity (p>0.9). In the whole brain analysis, stimulation increased metabolism in the GPi, subthalamic nucleus, putamen, primary sensorimotor cortex (PFDR<0.05). Acute improvement in TWSTRS correlated with metabolic activation in the sensorimotor cortex and overall treatment response in the supplementary motor area. Worsening of TMT-B score was associated with activation of the anterior cingulate cortex and parkinsonism with activation in the putamen.

Conclusions

GPi-DBS increases metabolic activity at the stimulation site and sensorimotor network. The clinical benefit and adverse effects are mediated by modulation of specific networks.
Environmental risk scores of persistent organic pollutants associate with higher ALS risk and shorter survival in a new Michigan case/control cohort
Authors: Goutman Stephen A , Boss Jonathan , Jang Dae-Gyu , Mukherjee Bhramar , Richardson Rudy J , Batterman Stuart , Feldman Eva L
Published: September 2023

Background

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal, progressive neurogenerative disease caused by combined genetic susceptibilities and environmental exposures. Identifying and validating these exposures are of paramount importance to modify disease risk. We previously reported that persistent organic pollutants (POPs) associate with ALS risk and survival and aimed to replicate these findings in a new cohort.

Method

Participants with and without ALS recruited in Michigan provided plasma samples for POPs analysis by isotope dilution with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. ORs for risk models and hazard ratios for survival models were calculated for individual POPs. POP mixtures were represented by environmental risk scores (ERS), a summation of total exposures, to evaluate the association with risk (ERSrisk) and survival (ERSsurvival).

Results

Samples from 164 ALS and 105 control participants were analysed. Several individual POPs significantly associated with ALS, including 8 of 22 polychlorinated biphenyls and 7 of 10 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs). ALS risk was most strongly represented by the mixture effects of OCPs alpha-hexachlorocyclohexane, hexachlorobenzene,trans-nonachlor andcis-nonachlor and an interquartile increase in ERSriskenhanced ALS risk 2.58 times (p<0.001). ALS survival was represented by the combined mixture of all POPs and an interquartile increase in ERSsurvivalenhanced ALS mortality rate 1.65 times (p=0.008).

Conclusions

These data continue to support POPs as important factors for ALS risk and progression and replicate findings in a new cohort. The assessments of POPs in non-Michigan ALS cohorts are encouraged to better understand the global effect and the need for targeted disease risk reduction strategies.
Relationship between injectate volume and disposition in erector spinae plane block: a cadaveric study
Authors: Gadsden Jeffrey , Gonzales Jeffrey , Chen An
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Erector spinae plane (ESP) blocks can be used to provide analgesia following thoracoabdominal and lumbar spine surgical procedures. However, the influence of injectate volume and injection location on the spread of anesthetic with ESP blocks remain unclear.

Methods

Ultrasound-guided ESP injections were performed on two fresh cadavers using a solution of iopamidol radiographic contrast, indocyanine green or methylene blue dye, and saline. The relationship between injectate volume and cephalocaudal spread was assessed using real-time fluoroscopic recordings after incremental ESP injections to the lumbar and thoracic region. Cadavers were then dissected to expose tissue staining and document the precise disposition of the dye within the ES muscle, paravertebral space, dorsal and ventral rami, and other relevant structures.

Results

Larger injection volumes resulted in more extensive cephalocaudal spread in most cases, with fluoroscopic images revealing a small but direct relationship between injectate volume and contrast spread. Dissection reinforced the radiographic findings, with staining ventral to the ES muscle ranging from 4 to 7 paravertebral levels with injections of 30–40 mL vs 12–13 levels following injections of 60–80 mL. No spread of dye to the lamina, transverse processes, paravertebral space, epidural space, or pleura was observed following any injection.

Conclusions

Increased ESP injection volumes resulted in more extensive cephalocaudal spread, resulting in anesthetic spread to the dorsal rami and ventral ES muscle without involvement of the ventral rami or other anterior structures. Injection volumes of 30 mL may be optimal for ESP blocks requiring analgesia across 4–7 levels.
Bolted end-plate tube connections subject to tension and bending
Authors: Fidalgo Augusto , Packer Jeffrey A.
Published: September 2023

A large amount of research has been undertaken on tubular bolted end-plate connections loaded in axial tension, and considerably less on such connections in flexure. This paper studies the combined effects of these two loads and presents the first laboratory tests on these connections under combined tension and flexure. Using validated finite element models, a parametric study with 360 numerical models is performed on these connections under axial and eccentric tension loads. After screening this database of experimental tests and numerical results to isolate only connection failure modes, current design methods for predicting the connection capacity under eccentric tension are evaluated and revised. In addition, based on interaction curves, a novel approach is proposed to design these splices under combined loads. For all methods, the use of the plate ultimate and yield stress was compared for the end-plate material strength parameter. Lastly, a reliability analysis is performed for the application of the recommended design methods to Canadian practice.