bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bistable Dynamics and Locomotion Performance Enhancement of a Multi-Module Vibration-Driven Robot
Authors: Zhao Yuyang , Fang Hongbin , Xu Jian
Published: November 2023

Vibration-driven locomotion systems can be used to design microrobots, and improving locomotion performance has been one of the research focuses. Integrating the bistability and the vibration-driven mechanism to enhance the locomotion performance of the robot is investigated in this paper. A three-module vibration-driven locomotion robot connected by two bistable pre-buckling beams is designed and modeled as a nonlinear lumped-mass system. Due to the discontinuity caused by the dry friction, numerical approaches are employed in this research, which not only reveals the effects of the actuation parameters on the bistable dynamics and the steady-state locomotion of the robot, but also uncovers the unique merits that the bistability brings to the robot. On the one hand, results reveal that the robot exhibits different locomotion modes corresponding to different levels of the average steady-state velocity. By changing the initial conditions of the system, the robot can fast-switching between different locomotion modes. On the other hand, the robot can adapt to variable payloads and maintain effective locomotion, which is an advantage that traditional linear systems do not have. The findings of this paper would provide a design basis and useful guidelines for the development of bistable vibration-driven locomotion robots, which will advance the state of the art.
Counterfactuals for Design: A Model-Agnostic Method for Design Recommendations
Authors: Regenwetter Lyle , Abu Obaideh Yazan , Ahmed Faez
Published: November 2023

We introduce Multi-Objective Counter/actuals for Design (MCD), a novel method for counterfactual optimization in design problems. Counterfactuals are hypothetical situations that can lead to a different decision or choice. In this paper, the authors frame the counterfactual search problem as a design recommendation tool that can help identify modifications to a design, leading to better functional performance. MCD improves upon existing counterfactual search methods by supporting multi-objective queries, which are crucial in design problems, and by decoupling the counterfactual search and sampling processes, thus enhancing efficiency and facilitating objective tradeoff visualization. The paper demonstrates MCD’s core functionality using a two-dimensional test case, followed by three case studies of bicycle design that showcase MCD’s effectiveness in real-world design problems. In the first case study, MCD excels at recommending modifications to query designs that can significantly enhance functional performance, such as weight savings and improvements to the structural safety factor. The second case study demonstrates that MCD can work with a pre-trained language model to suggest design changes based on a subjective text prompt effectively. Lastly, the authors task MCD with increasing a query design’s similarity to a target image and text prompt while simultaneously reducing weight and improving structural performance, demonstrating MCD’s performance on a complex multimodal query. Overall, MCD has the potential to provide valuable recommendations for practitioners and design automation researchers looking for answers to their “What if” questions by exploring hypothetical design modifications and their impact on multiple design objectives.
Framing Wicked Problems Through Evidentiary and Interpretative Analysis
Authors: Bhalerao Mayank J. , Honeycutt Wesley T. , Das Ashok K. , Allen Janet K. , Mistree Farrokh
Published: November 2023

Wicked problems are characterized by incomplete and conflicting information. To frame a wicked problem, it is necessary to analyze the interaction between variables and thence identify a reduced set of variables that are key to designing a socio-economic-technical system.

In this paper we propose using a combination of interpretative and evidentiary analysis through the application of Dilemma Triangle Method and System Dynamics, respectively. We propose a computational framework that allows a designer to convert heuristics into insights by using System Dynamics modelling, thus allowing a designer to analyze the interaction between variables. Further, our framework is based on the notion of involving human-in-the-loop, wherein wicked problems are framed through synergistic actions between a human and a computer. The benefits of using this framework are

• Converting heuristics into insights,

• Understanding the interaction between variables by analyzing the behavior of the system,

• Identifying the correct size of the problem by eliminating the variables that cannot be used to design a socio-economic-technical system.

To demonstrate the efficacy of the framework we use data pertaining to Kantashol village in Jharkhand, India. The data was provided by SunMoksha Power Pvt. Ltd. Our focus in this paper is on describing the framework rather than the results on the ground in India.
Dynamic Modeling of a Piezo-Driven Fast Tool Servo System With Coupling of Cutting Load
Authors: Zhang Yue , Liu Pengbo , Guo Jiashuai , Lu Shuaishuai
Published: November 2023

Fast tool servo (FTS) diamond turning is a promising method for ultra-precision machining, because of the fast oscillation of the FTS, optical devices with complex shapes can be fabricated with ultra-precision. Form accuracy during fast tool servo diamond turning is a critical issue in the manufacture of optical components. Considering the dynamic oscillation of the tool, the dynamic performance of the servo is crucial for the quality of the shape produced by the servo cutting. Although much research has been done on static errors, little attention has been paid to the effect of servo dynamic errors on surface quality. In this study, a 3D bridge-type enlarged fast tool servo (FTS) mechanism dynamics model was designed to predict the dynamic performance of real machining. First, the kinematics of the mechanism are analyzed, and then the Lagrange kinetic equations are used to dynamically model the designed model, comparison with finite element analysis by mathematical modeling, the model is able to predict the relationship between input voltage and output displacement under different load conditions during machining. The relationship between input voltage and output displacement is simulated by finite element method under the same input voltage and different load, which verifies the rationality of the designed dynamic model.
Towards Fatigue-Tolerant Design of Additively Manufactured Metamaterials
Authors: Apetre Nicole A. , Arcari Attilio , Michopoulos John G. , Rodriguez Steven N. , Iliopoulos Athanasios P. , Steuben John C. , Graber Benjamin D.
Published: November 2023

The advent of additive manufacturing (AM) has enabled the prototyping of periodic and non-periodic metamaterials (a.k.a. lattice or cellular structures) that could be deployed in a variety of engineering applications where certain combinations of performance features are desirable. For example, these structures could be used in a variety of naval engineering applications where light-weight, large surface area, energy absorption, heat dissipation, and acoustic bandgaps are critical. Furthermore, combining the multifunctional design optimization of these structures with progressive degradation due to cyclic fatigue would create attritable systems with tailorable performances not yet in reach by current conventional systems. Nevertheless, in order to deploy these complex geometry structures their multiphysics response has to be well understood and characterized. The objective of the current effort is to describe an initial approach for designing a uniaxial fatigue specimen as the first step toward the design of a multiaxial fatigue test coupon. In order to compare bending- and stretching-dominated structures, two strut-based lattices made of Ti-6Al-4V alloy consisting of the octet and tetrakaidecahedron (or Kelvin) cells are examined. The specimens are designed to fail in the central gauge area where edge effects are minimized. Finite element results of the relevant structural mechanics are used to compare the performance of the four geometries and to evaluate the effect of relative density on fatigue life.
Full-length sequence analysis of hepatitis C virus genotype 3b strains and development of an
in vivo
infectious 3b cDNA clone
Authors: Bajpai Priyanka Shukla , Collignon Laura , Sølund Christina , Madsen Lone Wulff , Christensen Peer Brehm , Øvrehus Anne , Weis Nina , Holmbeck Kenn , Fahnøe Ulrik , Bukh Jens
Published: November 2023

Worldwide, genotype 3 is the second most prevalent major variant among patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and the most difficult to treat with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). Further, subtype 3b, which is highly prevalent in Southeast Asia with increasing transmission in high-risk populations, carries paired NS5A resistance-associated substitutions (RAS), NS5A-A30K+L31M, conferring resistance to DAA therapy and lowering cure rates with pan-genotypic regimens. However, no complete genomic sequence or infectious clone exists for HCV genotype 3b. We determined the entire genome sequences, including 5′ and 3′ termini, of HCV genotype 3b isolates from three treatment naïve chronic hepatitis C patients, and by clonal analysis of the entire coding sequence demonstrated heterogeneous genome population compositions all carrying RAS A30K+L31M in NS5A. We generated a full-length HCV genotype 3b cDNA clone (pODN) and transfected Huh7.5 and Huh-Lunet/SEC14L2 cells with derived RNA transcripts without detecting HCV antigens by immunofluorescence staining. In contrast, intrahepatic transfection with RNA transcripts from pODN, and subsequent virus passages, in human-liver chimeric mice resulted in robust infection with serum HCV RNA titers of up to 7.9 log
10
genome equivalents/mL. Consensus HCV sequences of virus recovered from the transfected mouse contained no coding mutations exceeding 5% frequency, and sequences from the passage-infected mice likewise had no consensus changes. Thus, we developed the first HCV genotype 3b full-length cDNA clone which by its infectivity and genetic stability in human-liver chimeric mice proved functionality, and potential utility in future development of infectious cell culture systems needed for this DAA treatment-resistant subtype.

IMPORTANCE

HCV genotype 3b is a difficult-to-treat subtype, associated with accelerated progression of liver disease and resistance to antivirals. Moreover, its prevalence has significantly increased among persons who inject drugs posing a serious risk of transmission in the general population. Thus, more genetic information and antiviral testing systems are required to develop novel therapeutic options for this genotype 3 subtype. We determined the complete genomic sequence and complexity of three genotype 3b isolates, which will be beneficial to study its biology and evolution. Furthermore, we developed a full-length
in vivo
infectious cDNA clone of genotype 3b and showed its robustness and genetic stability in human-liver chimeric mice. This is, to our knowledge the first reported infectious cDNA clone of HCV genotype 3b and will provide a valuable tool to evaluate antivirals and neutralizing antibodies
in vivo
, as well as in the development of infectious cell culture systems required for further research.
Whole-genome sequencing and comparative genomics reveal the potential pathogenic mechanism of
Neoscytalidium dimidiatum
on pitaya
Authors: Wang Meng , Xu Min , Wang Zhouwen , Ding Yi , Kang Shaoling , Jiang Senrong , Wei Shuangshuang , Xie Jun , Huang Jiaquan , Li Dongdong , Hu Wenbin , Li Hongli , Jiang Xingyu , Tang Hua
Published: November 2023

Neoscytalidium dimidiatum
(class
Dothideomycetes
) is a fungus responsible for canker disease in pitaya stems and fruits, leading to significant economic losses. However, little is known about the pathogenesis, family evolution, and genetic variants of this species. In this study, we report a high-quality genome sequence of
N. dimidiatum
based on the Nanopore sequencing technology platform for sequencing and Hi-C assembly technology for genome assembly. The genome contains 12 chromosomes (2
n
= 2× = 12; diploid), with a sequencing depth of 186.1×, encoding 12,349 proteins. Molecular phylogenetic analysis showed that
N. dimidiatum
is evolutionarily close to
Botryosphaeria dothidea
. Compared to other fungi, the
N. dimidiatum
genome contains many carbohydrate-active enzymes and secondary metabolites. Additionally, we predict that
N. dimidiatum
contains 121 candidate effectors that may play important roles in infection and colonization, promoting pathogenicity in pitaya. Nine of these effectors were confirmed to contain signal peptides and inhibit BAX/INF1-induced necrosis in
Nicotiana benthamiana
, demonstrating their importance during infection. Finally, we also confirm that
N. dimidiatum
does not form an appressorium or infection thread but instead infects pitaya via open stomata. In conclusion, the results provide a foundation for future research on
N. dimidiatum
and the control of pitaya canker.

IMPORTANCE

Pitaya canker is a significant disease in the pitaya industry in China, causing significant economic losses. Therefore, systematic research on
Neoscytalidium dimidiatum
, the fungus implicated in pitaya canker, is essential for comprehending the pathogenesis of this disease and developing effective control strategies. We applied comparative genomics to reveal the genetic evolution, metabolic diversity, environmental adaptation, and pathogenicity of
N. dimidiatum
, providing ideal targets for studies of pathogenesis and molecular targets for fungicide development. Moreover, the systematic study of the
N. dimidiatum
growth cycle, morphological characteristics, and molecular phylogenetic analysis can promote a comprehensive understanding of its genetic basis.
Supplemental Material: Toroidal flow around the Tonga slab moved the Samoan plume during the Pliocene
Authors: Konrad Kevin , al. et
Published: November 2023

File S1: Supplemental text, figures, and table. File S2: Computed Samoa Plume Motion Models.  
Supplemental Material: Magmatic and rare Eocene to Precambrian xenocrystic zircons in Dominica reveal discrete crystallization episodes and multiple sediment sources
Authors: Frey Holli M. , al. et
Published: November 2023

Data tables for whole-rock geochemistry, magmatic zircon U-Pb ages, zircon chemistry, and zircon Hf data. Supplemental text includes detailed analytical methods.
Acute perimyocarditis associated withBartonella henselaeinfection
Authors: Cucchi David GJ , Govers Annebel , Janse Frank H , van Dalen Bas M
Published: November 2023

Perimyocarditis involves inflammation of the heart muscle and surrounding tissue, causing reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. Typically viral, but occasionally bacterial, this condition can arise fromBartonella henselae, a rare yet potentially serious pathogen that can lead to cardiac inflammation and subsequent heart failure. Since this bacterium is mainly associated with cat scratch disease—which is self-limiting and has a mild disease course—B. henselae’spotential role in cardiac disease is underestimated. We present a mid-30s man, immunocompetent, who presented to the emergency department with acute heart failure due toB. henselae-associated perimyocarditis. Despite not recalling any scratches or bites from cats, the patient had been living with cats, which likely exposed him. This case highlights the varied clinical presentations ofB. henselae-associated heart disease and underscores the importance of considering this pathogen as a potential cause of perimyocarditis, particularly in individuals with exposure to cats.
Hodgkin lymphoma associated vanishing bile duct syndrome treated successfully with a brentuximab based regimen
Authors: Morgan Judah D , Weishar Robert C , Kwok Ryan M , Lieuw Kenneth M
Published: November 2023

We report a combination therapy to successfully treat a patient with Hodgkin’s lymphoma complicated by vanishing bile duct syndrome. Our patient was in his 20s and presented with jaundice, emesis, B symptoms and diffuse lymphadenopathy along with cholestatic liver injury prompting a liver biopsy, which revealed this diagnosis, after the exclusion of other aetiologies. Our treatment regimen incorporated brentuximab along with other more conventional agents which attempted to maximise therapeutic efficacy while minimising the consequences of hepatotoxicity on the treatment protocol. Although this patient’s treatment course was complicated because of neutropenic infections, the patient achieved a complete metabolic response and is now more than 1 year off therapy.
Evaluating the uptake and effect of Surgical Safety Checklist implementation in a rural hospital, Neno District, Malawi
Authors: Kapira Sitalire , Aron Moses Banda , Mphande Isaac , Chonongera George , Khongo Brown David , Zaniku Haules Robbins , Mkandawire Salome , Nkhoma Wiseman , Tengatenga Listern , Munyaneza Fabien , Kachimanga Chiyembekezo
Published: November 2023

Background

The WHO introduced the Surgical Safety Checklist (SSC) in 2008, which has been proven to enhance collaboration and patient safety before, during and after surgical procedures. However, the impact of using SSC has not been assessed in a rural setting in Malawi. We aimed to evaluate the uptake of SSC in Neno District, Malawi.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional hospital-based retrospective chart review of 468 surgical cases from July 2021 to March 2022 in two hospitals in Neno District. We collected data using Excel and used R software for analysis. We used descriptive statistics to characterise the surgeries. We used χ2test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test to test the association between SSC use and independent variables. We fitted logistic regression to assess predictors of SSC use and complications.

Results

Of 468 surgical cases, 92% (n=431) were done as emergency procedures. The median age was 23 years (IQR: 19–29) and 94% (n=439) were female. Overall, 38% of surgeries (n=176) used the SSC and of these, 98% were in emergency procedures. We found an association between the use of SSC and the age of the client (p=0.018), type of procedure, name of the procedure, healthcare worker cadre, time procedure performed and complications (p<0.001). However, no association was observed between SSC use and outcome (p>0.05). The odds of using SSC were higher in emergency surgeries, surgeries performed at night; however, they were lower among temporary employees and anaesthetists with a diploma (p<0.001). The odds of experiencing complications were 1.71 times greater when using SSC compared with surgeries without SSC (p=0.029).

Conclusions

The use of an SSC in a rural area was promising, despite its fluctuating use and this needs programme improvement. Further studies are highly recommended to understand the fluctuation in the use of the SSC.
Effects of zero-dose vaccination status in early childhood and level of community socioeconomic development on learning attainment in preadolescence in India: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Johri Mira , Ng Edmond SW , Sharkey Alyssa , Bosson-Rieutort Delphine , Kone Georges K , Subramanian S V
Published: November 2023

Introduction

‘Zero-dose’ children (infants who fail to receive the first dose of diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis-containing vaccine) face substantial adversity in early childhood and may be at risk of failure to thrive. To inform a new global policy, we studied the relationship between zero-dose vaccination status in early childhood and learning attainment in preadolescence, and considered whether community socioeconomic development moderated these relationships.

Methods

We constructed a population cohort from the 2019 India Human Development Survey panel dataset to study the comparative performance of zero-dose versus vaccinated children identified in wave I (2004–2005) on basic learning tests at ages 8–11 in wave II (2011–2012). The outcome was a sum of reading, writing and math scores ranging from 0 (no knowledge) to 8. We fit three linear regression models examining whether child zero-dose status predicts learning attainment: a crude model, a main effects model including all prespecified covariates, and a model including an interaction between child zero-dose status and community development level.

Results

The analytic sample included 3781 children from 3781 households in 1699 communities, representing 18.2 million children. Predicted learning attainment scores for zero-dose children were lower than those for vaccinated children by −1.698 (95% CI −2.02 to −1.37; p<0.001) points (crude model) and −0.477 (95% CI −0.78 to −0.18; p<0.001) points (adjusted for all prespecified covariates). We found strong evidence of effect modification. The model including all prespecified correlates and an interaction predicted no effect of child zero-dose status in urban areas (p=0.830) or more developed rural villages (p=0.279), but an important effect in the least developed rural villages, where zero-dose children were expected to have test scores −0.750 (95% CI −1.15 to −0.344; p<0.001) points lower than vaccinated children.

Conclusion

Zero-dose children living in contexts of very low socioeconomic development are at elevated risk of poor learning attainment in preadolescence.
Phase 1 first-in-human dose-escalation study of ANV419 in patients with relapsed/refractory advanced solid tumors
Authors: Joerger Markus , Calvo Emiliano , Laubli Heinz , Lopez Juanita , Alonso Guzmán , Corral de la Fuente Elena , Hess Dagmar , König David , Sanchez Perez Vicky , Bucher Christoph , Jethwa Sangeeta , Garralda Elena
Published: November 2023

Background

ANV419 is a stable antibody–cytokine fusion protein consisting of interleukin-2 (IL-2) fused to an anti-IL-2 monoclonal antibody that sterically hinders binding of IL-2 to the α subunit of its receptor but has selective affinity for the receptor βγ subunits. Thus, ANV419 preferentially stimulates CD8+effector T cells and natural killer cells which are associated with tumor killing, while minimizing the activation of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells.

Methods

ANV419-001 is an open-label, multicenter, phase 1 study to evaluate the safety, tolerability, maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) of ANV419. Secondary objectives were to characterize the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and tumor response. Adult patients with advanced solid tumors and disease progression after ≥1 previous line of systemic therapy were enrolled. ANV419 was administered by intravenous infusion once every 2 weeks, with a planned treatment duration of 12 months. The dose escalation part of the study explored doses 3, 6 and 12 µg/kg as single patient cohorts followed by 24–364 µg/kg in a 3+3 design. Interim results are reported here (data cut-off: March 22, 2023).

Results

Forty patients were enrolled and received at least one dose of ANV419. The MTD and RP2D were determined to be 243 µg/kg. The most common ANV419-related treatment-emergent adverse events were Grade 1 and 2 fever (31 (77.5%)), chills (23 (57.5%), vomiting (14 (35.0%)), cytokine release syndrome and nausea (12 (30.0%) each). Transient and self-limiting lymphopenia due to lymphocyte redistribution was observed in all patients. In the RP2D cohort, Grade ≥3 thrombocytopenia and fever were reported by one patient (12.5%) each. All events were manageable with standard supportive care. At doses of 243 µg/kg (RP2D/MTD), the estimated T1/2was approximately 12 hours. At ANV419 doses ≥108 µg/kg, 64% of patients had a best response of at least SD (15 SD and 1 confirmed PR).

Conclusions

ANV419 at doses up to 243 µg/kg (the RP2D) was well tolerated and showed signs of antitumor activity in a heavily pretreated patient population with advanced solid tumors.

Trial registration number

NCT04855929.
Familial Alzheimer’s disease associated with heterozygousNPC1mutation
Authors: Lopergolo Diego , Bianchi Silvia , Gallus Gian Nicola , Locci Sara , Pucci Barbara , Leoni Valerio , Gasparini Daniele , Tardelli Elisa , Chincarini Andrea , Sestini Stelvio , Santorelli Filippo Maria , Zetterberg Henrik , De Stefano Nicola , Mignarri Andrea
Published: November 2023

Introduction

NPC1mutations are responsible for Niemann-Pick disease type C (NPC), a rare autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disease. Patients harbouring heterozygousNPC1mutations may rarely show parkinsonism or dementia. Here, we describe for the first time a large family with an apparently autosomal dominant late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD) harbouring a novel heterozygousNPC1mutation.

Methods

All the five living siblings belonging to the family were evaluated. We performed clinical evaluation, neuropsychological tests, assessment of cerebrospinal fluid markers of amyloid deposition, tau pathology and neurodegeneration (ATN), structural neuroimaging and brain amyloid-positron emission tomography. Oxysterol serum levels were also tested. A wide next-generation sequencing panel of genes associated with neurodegenerative diseases and a whole exome sequencing analysis were performed.

Results

We detected the novel heterozygous c.3034G>T (p.Gly1012Cys) mutation inNPC1, shared by all the siblings. No other point mutations or deletions inNPC1orNPC2were found. In four siblings, a diagnosis of late-onset AD was defined according to clinical characterisation and ATN biomarkers (A+, T+, N+) and serum oxysterol analysis showed increased 7-ketocholesterol and cholestane-3β,5α,6β-triol.

Discussion

We describe a novelNPC1heterozygous mutation harboured by different members of a family with autosomal dominant late-onset amnesic AD without NPC-associated features. A missense mutation in homozygous state in the same aminoacidic position has been previously reported in a patient with NPC with severe phenotype. The alteration of serum oxysterols in our family corroborates the pathogenic role of ourNPC1mutation. Our work, illustrating clinical and biochemical disease hallmarks associated withNPC1heterozygosity in patients affected by AD, provides relevant insights into the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying this possible novel association.
Predictive value of retinal atrophy for cognitive decline across disease duration in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Alba-Arbalat Salut , Solana Elisabeth , Lopez-Soley Elisabet , Camos-Carreras Anna , Martinez-Heras Eloy , Vivó Francesc , Pulido-Valdeolivas Irene , Andorra Magi , Sepulveda Maria , Cabrera Jose María , Fonseca Elianet , Calvi Alberto , Alcubierre Rafel , Dotti-Boada Marina , Saiz Albert , Martinez-Lapiscina Elena H , Villoslada Pablo , Blanco Yolanda , Sanchez-Dalmau Bernardo , Llufriu Sara
Published: November 2023

Background

We investigated the association between changes in retinal thickness and cognition in people with MS (PwMS), exploring the predictive value of optical coherence tomography (OCT) markers of neuroaxonal damage for global cognitive decline at different periods of disease.

Method

We quantified the peripapillary retinal nerve fibre (pRFNL) and ganglion cell-inner plexiform (GCIPL) layers thicknesses of 207 PwMS and performed neuropsychological evaluations. The cohort was divided based on disease duration (≤5 years or >5 years). We studied associations between changes in OCT and cognition over time, and assessed the risk of cognitive decline of a pRFNL≤88 µm or GCIPL≤77 µm and its predictive value.

Results

Changes in pRFNL and GCIPL thickness over 3.2 years were associated with evolution of cognitive scores, in the entire cohort and in patients with more than 5 years of disease (p<0.01). Changes in cognition were related to less use of disease-modifying drugs, but not OCT metrics in PwMS within 5 years of onset. A pRFNL≤88 µm was associated with earlier cognitive disability (3.7 vs 9.9 years) and higher risk of cognitive deterioration (HR=1.64, p=0.022). A GCIPL≤77 µm was not associated with a higher risk of cognitive decline, but a trend was observed at ≤91.5 µm in PwMS with longer disease (HR=1.81, p=0.061).

Conclusions

The progressive retinal thinning is related to cognitive decline, indicating that cognitive dysfunction is a late manifestation of accumulated neuroaxonal damage. Quantifying the pRFNL aids in identifying individuals at risk of cognitive dysfunction.
Radiographic cervical spine injury patterns in admitted blunt trauma patients with and without prehospital spinal motion restriction
Authors: Jao Susan , Wang Zhe , Mukhi Ambika , Chaudhary Neeta , Martin Jonathan , Yuan Victoria , Laskowski Robert , Huang Emily , Vosswinkel James , Singer Adam J , Jawa Randeep
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Selective prehospital cervical spine motion restriction (C-SMR) following blunt trauma has increasingly been used by emergency medical service (EMS) providers. We determined rates of prehospital C-SMR and concomitant radiographic injury patterns.

Methods

A retrospective trauma registry and chart review was conducted for all adult blunt trauma patients who were transported by EMS and hospitalized with radiographic cervical spine injuries from 2011 to 2019 at a level 1 trauma center.

Results

Of 658 admitted blunt trauma patients with confirmed cervical spine injury by imaging, 117 (17.8%) did not receive prehospital C-SMR. Patients without prehospital C-SMR were significantly older (76 vs 54 years), more often had low fall as mechanism of injury (59.8% vs 15.9%) and had lower Injury Severity Score (10 vs 17). Patients without C-SMR (Non-SMR) experienced the full array of cervical spine injury types and locations. While the non-SMR patients most often had dens fractures,C-SMR patients most often had C7 fractures; frequencies of fractures at the remaining vertebral levels were comparable. On MRI, cervical spinal cord (8.5% vs 19.6%) and ligamentous injuries (5.1% vs 12.6%) occurred less often in non-SMR patients. Approximately 8.5% of non-SMR patients and 20% of C-SMR patients required cervical spine surgery.

Conclusion

Patients without prehospital C-SMR demonstrate a broad array of cervical spine injuries. While the rates of certain cervical injuries are lower in prehospital non-SMR patients, they are not insignificant.

Level of evidence

Level III.
NMR characterization of novel interactions between p97 AAA+ ATPase and the p47 adaptor revealing insights into substrate delivery mechanism
Authors: Kim Peter , Black Megan , Perez Felipe , Huang Rui
Published: November 2023

p97/VCP is an essential AAA+ ATPase involved in diverse cellular activities by interacting with an array of protein adaptors that recruit p97 for specific tasks. p47 is one of the adaptors that targets p97 for membrane remodeling by forming a stable complex with p97 through multivalent interactions. Here, we report a pair of previously unidentified interactions between the N-terminal part of p47 (residues 1–94) and the N-terminal domain (NTD) of p97. Using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, we identify two binding sites on p47, one located on the ubiquitin-associated (UBA) domain and the other on the intrinsically disordered linker, that interact with the same basic patch on p97 NTD, driven by electrostatic forces. Reciprocal NMR titration experiments between p47 (residues 1–94) and p97 NTD reveal that these interactions are relatively weak in nature with dissociation constants on the order of hundreds of micromolar to millimolar in trans. Structural models of the two interactions are developed based on NMR chemical shift perturbations, which reveal details of the tentative binding interfaces. Our findings provide new insights into the mechanism by which ubiquitinated substrates are delivered from p47 to p97 for unfolding.
On Entropy Measures of Some Titania and Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Ye Qingfang , Li Fengwei
Published: November 2023

A nanotube is a nanometer–scale tube-like structure, it is a kind of nanoparticle, and may be large enough to serve as a pipe through which other nanoparticles can be channeled, or, depending on the material, may be used as an electrical conductor or an electrical insulator. For computing the structural information of nanotubes, the graph entropies have become the information theoretic quantities. The graph entropy measure has attracted the research community due to its potential application in discrete mathematics, biology, and chemistry. In this paper, our contribution is to explore graph entropies for structures of some nanotubes based on novel information function, which is the number of different degree vertices along with the number of edges between various degree vertices. More precisely, we computed entropies of some classes of nanotubes such as titania nanotube TNT[Formula: see text], TNT[Formula: see text] and carbon nanotubes HAC[Formula: see text] by making a relation of degree-based topological indices with the help of information function.
Charge Correlations in Cuprate Superconductors
Authors: Hayden Stephen M. , Tranquada John M.
Published: November 2023

High-temperature superconductivity, with transition temperatures up to ≈134 K at ambient pressure, occurs in layered cuprate compounds. The conducting CuO2 planes, which are universally present, are responsible for the superconductivity but also show a disposition to other competing states including spin and charge order. Charge-density-wave (CDW) order appears to be a universal property of cuprate superconductors. It has been studied via a multitude of probes including X-ray and neutron scattering, nuclear magnetic resonance, scanning probe techniques, electronic transport, and quantum oscillations. Here, we review the microscopic properties of the CDW order. We discuss the nature of the ordered state, that is, its symmetry and microscopic structure. Furthermore, we show how the CDW order is related to quenched disorder, host structure, symmetry breaking perturbations, and magnetic fields. We also describe measurements of dynamic collective charge excitations that are closely related to the quasi-static CDW order. Finally, we highlight some of the debated issues in the field, including the origin of the CDW order, the relationship to spin order, and the nature of the spatial CDW correlations.
Superdiffusion from Nonabelian Symmetries in Nearly Integrable Systems
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Sarang , Vasseur Romain
Published: November 2023

The Heisenberg spin chain is a canonical integrable model. As such, it features stable ballistically propagating quasiparticles, but spin transport is subballistic at any nonzero temperature: An initially localized spin fluctuation spreads in time t to a width t2/3. This exponent as well as the functional form of the dynamical spin correlation function suggest that spin transport is in the Kardar–Parisi–Zhang (KPZ) universality class. However, the full counting statistics of magnetization is manifestly incompatible with KPZ scaling. A simple two-mode hydrodynamic description, derivable from microscopic principles, captures both the KPZ scaling of the correlation function and the coarse features of the full counting statistics, but remains to be numerically validated. These results generalize to any integrable spin chain invariant under a continuous nonabelian symmetry and are surprisingly robust against moderately strong integrability-breaking perturbations that respect the nonabelian symmetry.
Enhancing Carbon Efficiency in Electrochemical CO2 Reduction at Silver Gas Diffusion Electrodes – The Effect of Acidic Electrolytes Explained via TFFA Modeling
Authors: Löffelholz Marco , Osiewacz Jens , Weseler Lydia , Turek Thomas
Published: November 2023

Recently, there has been a growing focus on enhancing carbon efficiency in the field of electrochemical CO2 reduction, quantifying the proportion of CO2 converted electrochemically relative to the total amount consumed. The competition between homogeneous reactions forming carbonates and the electrochemical conversion of CO2 is causing lowered carbon efficiencies in typical buffer or alkaline electrolytes. Consequently, strategies aimed at shifting the equilibrium of these reactions have to be employed. In this work, the application of acidic electrolytes is presented as a promising pathway to overcome this limitation. Experimental investigations at silver gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs) in acidic 0.5 M K2SO4 electrolyte show an improvement of carbon efficiency by up to 20% compared to 1 M KHCO3 electrolyte, while the Faradaic efficiency at high current densities is unaffected. Nevertheless, degradation of silver GDEs occurs in acidic conditions, emphasizing the need for development of more stable catalysts. Furthermore, a spatially resolved mathematical model provides insights into the local reaction environment within the GDE. This highlights the importance of local alkalinity to control the rate of electrochemical CO2 reduction. While the formation of hydroxide ions by the electrochemical reactions creates an alkaline environment favoring CO2 reduction, the acidic bulk electrolyte hinders the formation of carbonates.
Propionibacterium freudenreichii CIRM-BIA 129 mitigates colitis through S layer protein B-dependent epithelial strengthening
Authors: Mantel Marine , Durand Tony , Bessard Anne , Pernet Ségolène , Beaudeau Julie , Guimaraes-Laguna Juliana , Maillard Marie-Bernadette , Guédon Eric , Neunlist Michel , Le Loir Yves , Jan Gwénaël , Rolli-Derkinderen Malvyne
Published: November 2023

Propionibacterium freudenreichii reduces dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced intestinal permeability in vivo . P. freudenreichii does not inhibit inflammation but damages linked to inflammation. P. freudenreichii inhibits intestinal epithelial breakdown through S-layer protein B. The protective effects of P. freudenreichii depend on S-layer protein B. Extracellular vesicles from P. freudenreichii CB 129 mimic the protective effect of the probiotic.
High-Glucose-Induced Injury to Proximal Tubules of the Renal System Is Alleviated by Netrin-1 Suppression of Akt/mTOR
Authors: Liu Chenxiao , Hu Xingna , Zhao Yun , Huang Aijie , Chen Jiaqi , Lu Ting , Wu Mian , Lu Honghong
Published: November 2023

The kidneys have a high level of Netrin-1 expression, which protects against some acute and chronic kidney disorders. However, it is yet unknown how Netrin-1 affects renal proximal tubule cells in diabetic nephropathy (DN) under pathological circumstances. Research has shown that autophagy protects the kidneys in animal models of renal disease. In this study, we looked at the probable autophagy regulation mechanism of Netrin-1 and its function in the pathogenesis of DN. We proved that in HK-2 cell, high blood sugar levels caused Netrin-1 to be downregulated, which then triggered the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway and enhanced cell death and actin cytoskeleton disruption. By adding Netrin-1 or an autophagy activator in vitro, these pathogenic alterations were reverted. Our results indicate that Netrin-1 stimulates autophagy by blocking the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway, which underlies high-glucose-induced malfunction of the renal proximal tubules. After HK-2 cells were incubated with Netrin-1 recombination protein and rapamycin under HG conditions for 24 h, the apoptosis was significantly reduced, as shown by the higher levels of Bcl-2, as well as lower levels of Bax and cleaved caspase-3 (

P
=
0.012

, Cohen’s

d
=
0.489

, Glass’s

delta
=
0.23

, Hedges’

g
=
0.641

). This study reveals that targeting Netrin-1-related signaling has therapeutic potential for DN and advances our knowledge of the processes operating in renal proximal tubules in DN.
Aging Effects on the Mechanical Performance of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Composites
Authors: Afzal Ayesha , Bangash Muhammad Kashif , Hafeez Asif , Shaker Khubab
Published: November 2023

Carbon fiber-reinforced composite (CFRC) is a well-known hi-tech material with diverse applications. The CFRC faces several environmental conditions during its application, e.g., elevated temperatures, humidity, exposure to UV radiation, and acidic and alkaline environments. These environmental factors strongly affect the performance of CFRC, and they tend to age with time. Aging reduces the mechanical properties of the composite and ultimately its service life. In this review, the focus is on the aging of composite, common types of aging (thermal, hydrothermal acid and alkaline, and UV radiation), and the role of the third phase (fillers) in the aging process. There are numerous factors involved in the aging of composite. Aging starts with microcracks and proceeds towards delamination which further exposes the internal surface to environments. When the depths are exposed, free radicals are released and further deteriorate the internal structures. They create more pathways for oxygen to reach every millimeter of composite, thus reducing the mechanical performance of the composite. Usually, a trend is seen that introducing filler might slow down or compensate for the mechanical performance after aging. This trend is explored in the review article. However, usually, the third phase remained neutral and sometimes reduced and/or enhanced the mechanical properties after aging. In thermal aging, different metallic oxides have a noteworthy effect on mechanical performance. The synergistic effect of the third phase and aging on CFRC mechanical performance is also tabulated.
Thermal Analysis on Kerosene Oil-Based Two Groups of Ternary Hybrid Nanoparticles (CNT-Gr-Fe3O4 and MgO-Cu-Au) Mix Flow over a Bidirectional Stretching Sheet: A Comparative Approach
Authors: Choudhary Shilpa , Mehta Ruchika , Alessa Nazek , Jangid Sanju , Venkateswar Reddy M.
Published: November 2023

The present work examines the impressions of radiation impact on the three-dimensional non-Newtonian MHD Casson flow of ternary hybrid nanofluids over a symmetrical stretching sheet with magnetic impression and heat generation/absorption. The unique boost in thermal efficiency and development of the rate of heat transport as valid to the dynamics of energy and coolant in automobiles is what has led to an increase in knowledge of hybrid nanofluid. For the study, two groups of ternary nanoparticles (CNT-Gr-Fe3O4 and MgO-Cu-Au) are combined with the base fluid kerosene oil. A nonlinear partial differential equation system is created while keeping in mind some reasonable presumptions. Using the similarities transformation, PDE’s are changed into nonlinear ODE’s. Also, it is then mathematically simplified with the bvp4c technique. The consequences of an exclusive group of unique impacts on motion characteristics, skin friction coefficient, thermal field impressions, heat transport rate, concentration distribution, and mass transfer rate are described clearly. The motion in the x and y directions decays with increasing the Casson fluid parameter

0.04
≤
β
≤
0.06

and magnetic impact

6

≤
M
≤

10

for ternary groups I and II. An energy upsurge profile appears for radiation impression (1 

≤

 Nr 

≤

 20) and heat source/sink (0.1 

≤

 Q 

≤

 1.5). When compared to rising Dufour number (0.1 

≤

 Du 

≤

 0.9) and heat source/sink values (0.1 

≤

 Q 

≤

 1.5), the Nusselt number decreases. The volume fraction

0.1

≤

ϕ
≤

0.3

of ternary nanoparticles rises the velocity (in both directions) and thermal distributions. Also, the Nusselt number enhances for both ternary groups when increasing thermal radiation (1 

≤

 Nr 

≤

 20).
Meningococcal Conjunctivitis in a 54-Year-Old Man: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Gherardi Giovanni , Surico Pier Luigi , Coassin Marco , Di Zazzo Antonio , D'Arezzo Silvia , Angeletti Silvia , Fontana Carla , Petrosillo Nicola
Published: November 2023

Neisseria meningitidis represents an uncommon pathogen of acute bacterial conjunctivitis. In this brief report, we describe a case of meningococcal conjunctivitis in an immunocompetent adult male, with a review of the literature. The patient went to the outpatient ophthalmology clinic complaining of severe ocular discomfort, burning, and redness for more than 2 weeks and, at slit lamp examination, he was diagnosed with a mild conjunctivitis. Microbiology cultures of ocular swabs revealed the growth of colonies, as pure culture, identified as N. meningitidis of serogroup B. A diagnosis of primary meningococcal conjunctivitis was made and treatment of patient with intramuscular injections of ceftriaxone in addition to topical moxifloxacin eye drops for 2 weeks led to clinical improvement and, finally, to a complete recovery, in accordance with microbiological findings. Ophthalmologists must be aware of the possibility of primary meningococcal conjunctivitis cases, even uncommon, and the need to treat with systemic antibiotics and their close contacts with adequate antibiotic chemoprophylaxis.
Discrepancy between Current, Desired, and Ideal Body Mass Index in Persons with Obesity: A Swedish Population-Based Study
Authors: Meyer Elin , Lönnroth Knut , Forsell Yvonne , Lagerros Ylva Trolle
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Body weight dissatisfaction, when current and desired body mass index (BMI) do not align, is common in persons with obesity. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to explore factors associated with the differences between current and desired BMI, and ideal BMI (defined in the present study as BMI 25 kg/m2), in persons with obesity. Methods: Swedish citizens aged 20–64 years residing in the Stockholm County were randomly selected from the population register at five different and evenly separated occasions in the study period 1998–2000 and invited to provide self-reported data about their current weight, height, desired weight, and other characteristics such as depressive symptoms and alcohol intake. Among the 10,441 participants with a mean BMI of 24 kg/m2, differences between desired BMI and ideal BMI were calculated to determine the discrepancy between desired BMI and ideal BMI in participants with obesity (n = 808). The discrepancy between current and desired BMI was also determined. Using linear regression, factors associated with BMI discrepancies were determined. Results: Persons with BMI <40 kg/m2 desired a lower BMI than those with BMI ≥40 kg/m2 (26 ± 3 vs. 36 ± 14 kg/m2, p < 0.001). Women with obesity (n = 425) had a larger discrepancy between current and desired BMI, 32% ± 16, than men with obesity (n = 380), 24% ± 21 (p < 0.001). Persons with obesity and major depression had a 6.9% (95% CI: 2.5–11.4) larger discrepancy between current and desired BMI than persons with obesity but without major depression. Being born abroad, having a university degree, or hazardous alcohol use were not associated with discrepancy between current and desired BMI or desired BMI and ideal BMI (all p > 0.05). Conclusion: Desired BMI and discrepancies between current, desired, and ideal BMI vary according to current BMI, sex, and presence of major depression. This underscores the significance of a patient-centered approach in the management of obesity, where the goals and needs of each patient should be considered.