bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Event‐triggered based finite‐frequency control for vehicle electrohydraulic suspension with force tracking
Authors: Zhang Jie , Zhang Bangji , Li Boyuan , Dai Di , Zhang Nong
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the problem of event‐triggered based finite‐frequency control for vehicle electrohydraulic suspensions with force tracking. A novel hierarchical control methodology is proposed by designing event‐triggered finite frequency and active force tracking controllers to improve the suspension performance. In practical application, active suspension system can be constructed as the network control system under consideration of the electrohydraulic actuator's nonlinear dynamics and parametric uncertainties, and in‐vehicle network delay in a unified framework. Then, due to the more sensitiveness of the human body to vertical vibrations in 4–8 Hz and limited in‐vehicle network communication resource, an event‐triggered finite frequency controller is developed based on the generalized KYP lemma and Lyapunov stability theory. The triggered condition is designed for the network control system with in‐vehicle network delay. Other physical constraints including suspension working space, tire dynamic load and actuator saturation are also introduced in this controller design. It can generate the target force to satisfy suspension performance requirements under each triggered instant period. Furthermore, since the nonlinearity and uncertainty always exist in the electrohydraulic actuator, a filter‐based adaptive sliding mode control method is employed to design the active force tracking controller. It can precisely drive electrohydraulic actuator to track the target constant force generated by event‐triggered finite frequency controller. Finally, the results validate the effectiveness and saving communication resource capability of the proposed control methodology.
Hub‐aware random walk graph embedding methods for classification
Authors: Tomčić Aleksandar , Savić Miloš , Radovanović Miloš
Published: April 2024

In the last two decades, we are witnessing a huge increase of valuable big data structured in the form of graphs or networks. To apply traditional machine learning and data analytic techniques to such data it is necessary to transform graphs into vector‐based representations that preserve the most essential structural properties of graphs. For this purpose, a large number of graph embedding methods have been proposed in the literature. Most of them produce general‐purpose embeddings suitable for a variety of applications such as node clustering, node classification, graph visualization and link prediction. In this article, we propose two novel graph embedding algorithms based on random walks that are specifically designed for the node classification problem. Random walk sampling strategies of the proposed algorithms have been designed to pay special attention to hubs–high‐degree nodes that have the most critical role for the overall connectedness in large‐scale graphs. The proposed methods are experimentally evaluated by analyzing the classification performance of three classification algorithms trained on embeddings of real‐world networks. The obtained results indicate that our methods considerably improve the predictive power of examined classifiers compared with currently the most popular random walk method for generating general‐purpose graph embeddings (node2vec).
ASEAN's efficiency scores in achieving the sustainable development goals
Authors: Hu Jin‐Li , Cheng Ya‐Chi
Published: April 2024

With limited government resources, achieving all 17 SDGs by 2030 is challenging, and it would be best to prioritize the implementation of the SDGs. This study applies the SBM model of DEA to compare ASEAN with closely interacting countries. Using DEA can identify the characteristics of efficient decision‐making units (i.e., efficient countries), identify the relatively inefficient SDGs of ASEAN and the best practice peer countries, and determine the SDGs that need to be improved in the short term and the target countries to be emulated. This study further compares the efficiency of ASEAN and non‐ASEAN countries, high‐income countries, and other countries, before and after the outbreak of Covid‐19, to gain more policy implications.
Protein Aggregation on Metal Oxides Governs Catalytic Activity and Cellular Uptake
Authors: Nißler Robert , Dennebouy Lena , Gogos Alexander , Gerken Lukas R.H. , Dommke Maximilian , Zimmermann Monika , Pais Michael A. , Neuer Anna L. , Matter Martin T. , Kissling Vera M. , de Brot Simone , Lese Ioana , Herrmann Inge K.
Published: April 2024

Engineering of catalytically active inorganic nanomaterials holds promising prospects for biomedicine. Catalytically active metal oxides show applications in enhancing wound healing but have also been employed to induce cell death in photodynamic or radiation therapy. Upon introduction into a biological system, nanomaterials are exposed to complex fluids, causing interaction and adsorption of ions and proteins. While protein corona formation on nanomaterials is acknowledged, its modulation of nanomaterial catalytic efficacy is less understood. In this study, proteomic analyses and nano‐analytic methodologies quantify and characterize adsorbed proteins, correlating this protein layer with metal oxide catalytic activity in vitro and in vivo. The protein corona comprises up to 280 different proteins, constituting up to 38% by weight. Enhanced complement factors and other opsonins on nanocatalyst surfaces lead to their uptake into macrophages when applied topically, localizing >99% of the nanomaterials in tissue‐resident macrophages. Initially, the formation of the protein corona significantly reduces the nanocatalysts' activity, but this activity can be partially recovered in endosomal conditions due to the proteolytic degradation of the corona. Overall, the research reveals the complex relationship between physisorbed proteins and the catalytic characteristics of specific metal oxide nanoparticles, providing design parameters for optimizing nanocatalysts in complex biological environments.
Tuning Electrons Migration of Dual S Defects Mediated MoS2‐x/ZnIn2S4‐x Toward Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
Authors: Zheng Yifan , Wang Yu , Mansoor Seemal , Hu Zixu , Zhang Yuxin , Liu Yongdi , Zhou Liang , Lei Juying , Zhang Jinlong
Published: April 2024

Photocatalytic hydrogen production is a prevalent method for hydrogen synthesis. However, high recombination rate of photogenerated carriers and high activation energy barrier of H remain persistent challenge. Here, the two‐step hydrothermal method is utilized to prepare dual S‐defect mediated catalyst molybdenum sulfide/zinc indium sulfide (MSv/ZISv), which has high hydrogen production rate of 8.83 mmol g−1h−1 under simulated sunlight. The achieved rate is 21.91 times higher than pure ZnIn2S4 substrate. Defects in ZIS within MSv/ZISv modify the primitive electronic structure by creating defect state that retaining good reducing power, leading to the rapid separation of electron‐hole pairs and the generation of additional photogenerated carriers. The internal electric field further enhances the migration toward to cocatalyst. Simultaneously, the defects introduced on the MoS2 cause electron rearrangement, leading to electron clustering on both S vacancies and edge S. Thereby MSv/ZISv exhibits the lowest activation energy barrier and |ΔGH*|. This work explores the division of synergies between different types of S defects, providing new insights into the coupling of defect engineering.
Artificial Heterointerfaces with Regulated Charge Distribution of Ni Active Sites for Urea Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Chen Lei , Wang Lei , Ren Jin‐Tao , Wang Hao‐Yu , Tian Wen‐Wen , Sun Ming‐Lei , Yuan Zhong‐Yong
Published: April 2024

In contrast to the thermodynamically unfavorable anodic oxygen evolution reaction, the electrocatalytic urea oxidation reaction (UOR) presents a more favorable thermodynamic potential. However, the practical application of UOR has been hindered by sluggish kinetics. In this study, hierarchical porous nanosheet arrays featuring abundant Ni‐WO3 heterointerfaces on nickel foam (Ni‐WO3/NF) is introduced as a monolith electrode, demonstrating exceptional activity and stability toward UOR. The Ni‐WO3/NF catalyst exhibits unprecedentedly rapid UOR kinetics (200 mA cm−2 at 1.384 V vs. RHE) and a high turnover frequency (0.456 s−1), surpassing most previously reported Ni‐based catalysts, with negligible activity decay observed during a durability test lasting 150 h. Ex situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations elucidate that the WO3 interface significantly modulates the local charge distribution of Ni species, facilitating the generation of Ni3+ with optimal affinity for interacting with urea molecules and CO2 intermediates at heterointerfaces during UOR. This mechanism accelerates the interfacial electrocatalytic kinetics. Additionally, in situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy provides deep insights into the substantial contribution of interfacial Ni‐WO3 sites to UOR electrocatalysis, unraveling the underlying molecular‐level mechanisms. Finally, the study explores the application of a direct urea fuel cell to inspire future practical implementations.
Parametric study for optimizing fiber‐reinforced concrete properties
Authors: Khalel Hamad Hasan Zedan , Khan Muhammad , Starr Andrew , Sadawi Noureddin , Mohamed Omar Ahmed , Khalil Ashraf , Esaker Mohamed
Published: April 2024

Concrete with fiber reinforcement is stronger and more ductile than concrete without reinforcement. Significant efforts have been made to demonstrate the properties and enhancements of concrete after reinforcement with various types and shapes of fibers. However, the issue of optimization in the reinforcement process is still unanswered. There is no academic study in the literature now available that can pinpoint the ideal fiber type, quantity, and shape and, more crucially, the overall technical viability of the reinforcement. The parametric analysis in this study determines the ideal shape, size, and proportion of fibers. The input and output parameters were separated from the optimization design variables. Input parameters included assessment of samples of fresh and mechanical concrete properties and the influence of type, length, and percentage of fiber on concrete performance. The aim was to establish the most efficient relationship between fiber dose and dimension to optimize the combined responses of workability and splitting tensile, flexural, and compressive strength. The mechanical and fresh properties of concrete reinforced with four different fibers, PFRC‐1, PFRC‐2, SFRC‐1, and SFRC‐2, were tested. The analysis showed that SFRC‐2‐20 mm‐1%, with compressive, split tensile, flexural, and workability values of 44.7 MPa, 3.64 MPa, 5.3 MPa, and 6.5 cm respectively, was the most effective combination among the materials investigated. The optimization technique employed in this study offers new, important insights into how input and output parameters relate to one another.
Investigating the dynamic and contingent effects of the US import air freight market throughout the phases of the COVID‐19 disruption
Authors: Kulpa Travis , Miller Jason W. , Thomas Rodney
Published: April 2024

Air freight is a fast and reliable mode of transportation in global supply chains. Because of its speed and reliability, air freight has been argued to help firms respond to supply chain disruptions. Yet, the literature lacks a quantitative analysis that examines the dynamics of air freight demand throughout the phases of a disruption as well the moderating factors that influence air freight demand throughout these phases. Drawing on the microanalytic view of property rights theory applied to the dynamics of air freight demand during the COVID‐19 disruption, the study hypothesizes that importers adjust air freight demand based on considerations of demand and lead time uncertainty and that these dynamics will be contingent on heterogeneous product characteristics. Specifically, the study hypothesizes that air freight demand will increase more for products used as intermediate inputs, and that products, regardless of their value, will have higher air freight demand during the large surge in demand after reopening from the initial COVID‐19 lockdowns. The hypotheses are tested using archival import data and other publicly available sources with panel regression models that include product and quarter fixed effects. The study finds support for these hypotheses.
LncRNA FRMD6‐AS1/miR‐491‐5p/USP13 pathway attenuated ferroptosis and contributed to liver fibrosis
Authors: Li Ziqiang , Zou Weilong , Jin Xiangren , Wang Yang
Published: April 2024

Liver fibrosis is an invertible pathophysiologic process featured by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) which injures liver cells and activates hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Besides, inducing ferroptosis in activated HSCs can alleviate liver fibrosis. LncRNAs modulate ferroptosis in activated HSCs and ECM deposition in liver fibrosis. However, the role of lncRNA FRMD6‐AS1 in liver fibrosis is not discovered. In this study, lncRNA FRMD6‐AS1 was dramatically up‐regulated in activated HSCs. Knockdown of FRMD6‐AS1 markedly increased iron ion, ROS and MDA levels, decreased GSH level, SLC7A11 and GPX4 protein expressions in activated HSCs. In addition, HSCs activation markers α‐SMA and COL1α1 expressions were up‐regulated in activated HSCs; knockdown of FRMD6‐AS1 markedly down‐regulated α‐SMA and COL1α1 expressions in HSCs. Besides, lncRNA FRMD6‐AS1 could interact with miR‐491‐5p, and negatively modulate miR‐491‐5p expression. USP13 was a target of miR‐491‐5p, and could be negatively modulated by miR‐491‐5p. Moreover, FRMD6‐AS1 knockdown increased iron ion and ROS levels, decreased SLC7A11 and GPX4 protein expressions, facilitated HSCs viability, and up‐regulated α‐SMA and COL1α1 expressions via miR‐491‐5p/USP13 pathway. Finally, FRMD6‐AS1 knockdown restored liver tissue structure and abrogated fibrosis in livers in a CCL4 liver fibrosis mouse model. Hence, lncRNA FRMD6‐AS1/miR‐491‐5p/USP13 pathway repressed ferroptosis, promoted ECM deposition and facilitated liver fibrosis in vitro and in vivo models.
Sensitivity of cholinesterases and carboxylesterases to pharmaceutical products in Tinca tinca
Authors: Oropesa Ana‐Lourdes , González‐Sánchez Blanca , Beltrán Fernando J.
Published: April 2024

Discharges to the aquatic environment of pharmaceuticals represent a hazard to the aquatic organisms. Subchronic assay with 17‐alpha‐ethinylestradiol (EE2) and in vitro essays with pharmaceuticals of environmental concern were conducted to examine the sensitivity of tissue acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and carboxylesterase (CbE) activities of Tinca tinca to them. Subchronic exposure to 17‐alpha‐EE2 caused significant effects on brain, liver, and muscle CbE, but no on AChE activities. Most of the pharmaceuticals tested in vitro were considered as weak inhibitors of tissular AChE activity. Depending on the tissues, some compounds were classified as moderate inhibitors of CbE activity while other were categorized as weak enzymatic inhibitors. An opposite trend was observed depending on the tissue, while brain and liver CbE activities were inhibited, the muscle CbE activity was induced. Changes experienced on enzymatic activities after exposure to pharmaceuticals might affect the physiological functions in which these enzymes are involved. In vitro exposure to 17‐alpha‐EE2 in tench could be an informative, but not a surrogate model to know the effect of this synthetic estrogen on AChE and CbE activities.
Feasibility and safety of intracranial carotid implantation with covered stents for advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma involving the carotid artery: A preliminary investigation
Authors: Zhang Hai‐Dong , Sun Kai , Gong Shan‐Chun , Liu Kai , Lyu Xian‐Jun , Yu Zhen‐Kun
Published: April 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and safety of implanting covered stents in cases of advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (ASCCHN) where the carotid artery was involved.

Methods

A total of 30 patients (29 males and one female) were included in this study, with ages ranging from 40 to 79 years. Among these patients, 28 patients had received radiotherapy and 17 received subsequent adjuvant therapy, while one was receiving treatment for the first time. Eighteen were treated with covered stent implantation in conjunction with surgery, and the remaining 12 received stent implantation alone. The study evaluated and compared the stent implantation's success rate, overall survival (OS), and associated complications.

Results

Successful implantation of covered stents was achieved in all 30 cases. No instances of significant hemorrhage or thromboembolic cerebral infarction occurred during surgery. Of the patients in the salvage surgical group, 15 underwent complete tumor resection with a success rate of 83.3% (15/18), of which four experienced tumor recurrence with a local recurrence rate of 26.7% (4/15). The OS rates at 6 months for all patients, the salvage surgical group, the 15 patients with complete tumor resection, and the nonsurgical group were 64.0%, 66.8%, 75.5%, and 58.6%, respectively. At 12 months, the OS rates were 21.4%, 29.3%, 43.2%, and 11.8%, respectively. Notably, the OS of the 15 patients who underwent complete tumor resection was significantly higher than that of the 12 patients who received stent implantation alone (p = 0.044). All cerebrovascular accidents occurred in patients with radiotherapy history, and subsequent adjuvant therapy had no significant effect on the OS time in the salvage surgical and nonsurgical groups (p = 0.935; p = 0.526).

Conclusion

In cases of ASCCHN involving the carotid artery, the implantation of covered stents is a safe and feasible procedure.
Karl Popper on Deduction
Authors: Piecha Thomas
Published: April 2024

We outline Karl Popper’s theory of deduction, which he developed in the 1940s. In his theory it is assumed that a consequence relation is given or otherwise constructed by postulation. Logical operations, which may be available in this consequence relation, are then characterized by means of relational definitions, and logical operators are introduced as names for these operations by means of inferential definitions. Using logically structured sentences thus introduced, the inference laws for them are immediately obtained from the inferential definitions.
Konklusion zum Forschungsdesiderat
Authors: Albrecht Joanna , Hüning Nadine
Published: April 2024

Die in den vorangegangenen Kapiteln thematisierten Inhalte werden mit Blick auf das vorherrschende Forschungsdesiderat nachfolgend konkludiert.
Methodisches Vorgehen
Authors: Albrecht Joanna , Hüning Nadine
Published: April 2024

Dieser Forschungsarbeit liegt eine methodische Triangulation aus qualitativen und quantitativen Elementen zugrunde, die auf die Entwicklung einer Definition, eines Modells sowie eines Erhebungsinstruments zur Digitalen Teilhabe von MgB abzielt.
Diskussion
Authors: Albrecht Joanna , Hüning Nadine
Published: April 2024

Nach der abschließenden Ergebnisdarstellung wird nachfolgend das methodische Vorgehen sowie die entwickelte Definition, das Modell und das Erhebungsinstrument inhaltlich diskutiert. Die Ergebnisse werden unter Einbezug des theoretischen Hintergrunds konstruktiv reflektiert, sodass die zugrundeliegenden Forschungsfragen beantwortet werden.
On correlation functions of higher-spin currents in arbitrary dimensions d > 3
Authors: Karapetyan Melik , Manvelyan Ruben , Mkrtchyan Karapet
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We revisit the problem of classification and explicit construction of the conformal three-point correlation functions of currents of arbitrary integer spin in arbitrary dimensions. For the conserved currents, we set up the equations for the conservation conditions and solve them completely for some values of spins, confirming the earlier counting of the number of independent structures matching them with the higher-spin cubic vertices in one higher dimension. The general solution for the correlators of conserved currents we delegate to a follow-up work.
Noninvertible symmetries and anomalies from gauging 1-form electric centers
Authors: Anber Mohamed M. , Chan Samson Y. L.
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We devise a general method for obtaining 0-form noninvertible discrete chiral symmetries in 4-dimensional SU(N)/ℤp and SU(N) × U(1)/ℤp gauge theories with matter in arbitrary representations, where ℤp is a subgroup of the electric 1-form center symmetry. Our approach involves placing the theory on a three-torus and utilizing the Hamiltonian formalism to construct noninvertible operators by introducing twists compatible with the gauging of ℤp. These theories exhibit electric 1-form and magnetic 1-form global symmetries, and their generators play a crucial role in constructing the corresponding Hilbert space. The noninvertible operators are demonstrated to project onto specific Hilbert space sectors characterized by particular magnetic fluxes. Furthermore, when subjected to twists by the electric 1-form global symmetry, these surviving sectors reveal an anomaly between the noninvertible and the 1-form symmetries. We argue that an anomaly implies that certain sectors, characterized by the eigenvalues of the electric symmetry generators, exhibit multi-fold degeneracies. When we couple these theories to axions, infrared axionic noninvertible operators inherit the ultraviolet structure of the theory, including the projective nature of the operators and their anomalies. We discuss various examples of vector and chiral gauge theories that showcase the versatility of our approach.
Generalized Freudenthal duality for rotating extremal black holes
Authors: Chattopadhyay Arghya , Mandal Taniya , Marrani Alessio
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Freudenthal duality (FD) is a non-linear symmetry of the Bekenstein-Hawking entropy of extremal dyonic black holes (BHs) in Maxwell-Einstein-scalar theories in four space-time dimensions realized as an anti-involutive map in the symplectic space of electric-magnetic BH charges. In this paper, we generalize FD to the class of rotating (stationary) extremal BHs, both in the under- and over-rotating regime, defining a (generalized) rotating FD (generally, non-anti-involutive) map (RFD), which also acts on the BH angular momentum. We prove that the RFD map is unique, and we compute the explicit expression of its non-linear action on the angular momentum itself. Interestingly, in the non-rotating limit, RFD bifurcates into the usual, non-rotating FD branch and into a spurious branch, named “golden” branch, mapping a non-rotating (static) extremal BH to an under-rotating (stationary) extremal BH, in which the ratio between the angular momentum and the non-rotating entropy is the square root of the golden ratio. Finally, we investigate the possibility of inducing transitions between the under- and over- rotating regimes by means of RFD, obtaining a no-go result.
Hadronic vacuum polarization in the muon g − 2: the short-distance contribution from lattice QCD
Authors: Kuberski Simon , Cè Marco , von Hippel Georg , Meyer Harvey B. , Ottnad Konstantin , Risch Andreas , Wittig Hartmut
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We present results for the short-distance window observable of the hadronic vacuum polarization contribution to the muon g – 2, computed via the time-momentum representation (TMR) in lattice QCD. A key novelty of our calculation is the reduction of discretization effects by a suitable subtraction applied to the TMR kernel function, which cancels the leading $${x}_{0}^{4}$$-behaviour at short distances. To compensate for the subtraction, one must substitute a term that can be reliably computed in perturbative QCD. We apply this strategy to our data for the vector current collected on ensembles generated with 2 + 1 flavours of O(a)-improved Wilson quarks at six values of the lattice spacing and pion masses in the range 130 – 420 MeV. Our estimate at the physical point contains a full error budget and reads $${\left({a}_{\mu }^{{\text{hvp}}}\right)}^{{\text{SD}}}$$ = 68.85(14)stat (42)syst·10−10, which corresponds to a relative precision of 0.7%. We discuss the implications of our result for the observed tensions between lattice and data-driven evaluations of the hadronic vacuum polarization.
Non-Abelian currents bootstrap
Authors: He Yin-Chen , Rong Junchen , Su Ning , Vichi Alessandro
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We initiate the study of correlation functions of non-Abelian spin-1 conserved current in three-dimensional conformal field theories using numerical conformal bootstrap. We discuss the general framework and apply it to the particular cases of SU(N) and O(N) global symmetry. In both cases, we obtain general bounds on operator dimensions. In the large-N limit our bounds show features in correspondence of the expected position of fermionic QED3 in three dimensions, as well as other interesting theories. By imposing gaps inspired by the spectrum of QED3 at large-N, we manage to restrict the plane of certain operator dimensions to a small island, where QED3 must live.
On the quantum Bousso bound in JT gravity
Authors: Franken Victor , Rondeau François
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We prove the Strominger-Thompson quantum Bousso bound in the infinite class of conformal vacua in semiclassical JT gravity, with postive or negative cosmological constant. The Bousso-Fisher-Leichenauer-Wall quantum Bousso bound follows from an analogous derivation, requiring only initial quantum non-expansion. In this process, we show that the quantity $$2\pi {k}^{\mu }{k}^{\nu }\langle :{T}_{\mu \nu }:\rangle -{S}^{{\prime}{\prime}}-\frac{6}{c}{\left({S}{\prime}\right)}^{2}$$ vanishes in any vacuum state, entailing a stronger version of Wall’s quantum null energy condition. We derive an entropy formula in the presence of a generic class of two reflecting boundaries, in order to apply our argument to the half reduction model of de Sitter JT gravity.
Peripheral T-cell responses of EphB2- and EphB3-deficient mice in a model of collagen-induced arthritis
Authors: Montero-Herradón Sara , García-Ceca Javier , Villarejo-Torres Marta , Zapata Agustín G.
Published: April 2024

Both EphB2- and EphB3-deficient mice exhibit profound histological alterations in the thymic epithelial network but few changes in T-cell differentiation, suggesting that this organization would be sufficient to produce functional T lymphocytes. Also, other antigen-presenting cells involved in immunological education could substitute the thymic epithelium. Accordingly, we found an increased frequency of plasmacytoid dendritic cells but not of conventional dendritic cells, medullary fibroblasts or intrathymic B lymphocytes. In addition, there are no lymphoid infiltrates in the organs of mutant mice nor do they contain circulating autoantibodies. Furthermore, attempts to induce arthritic lesions after chicken type II collagen administration fail totally in EphB2-deficient mice whereas all WT and half of the immunized EphB3−/− mice develop a typical collagen-induced arthritis. Our results point out that Th17 cells, IL4-producing Th2 cells and regulatory T cells are key for the induction of disease, but mutant mice appear to have deficits in T cell activation or cell migration properties. EphB2−/− T cells show reduced in vitro proliferative responses to anti-CD3/anti-CD28 antibodies, produce low levels of anti-type II collagen antibodies, and exhibit low proportions of T follicular helper cells. On the contrary, EphB3−/− lymph node cells respond accurately to the different immune stimuli although in lower levels than WT cells but show a significantly reduced migration in in vitro transwell assays, suggesting that no sufficient type II collagen-dependent activated lymphoid cells reached the joints, resulting in reduced arthritic lesions.
Markov decision processes with risk-sensitive criteria: an overview
Authors: Bäuerle Nicole , Jaśkiewicz Anna
Published: April 2024

The paper provides an overview of the theory and applications of risk-sensitive Markov decision processes. The term ’risk-sensitive’ refers here to the use of the Optimized Certainty Equivalent as a means to measure expectation and risk. This comprises the well-known entropic risk measure and Conditional Value-at-Risk. We restrict our considerations to stationary problems with an infinite time horizon. Conditions are given under which optimal policies exist and solution procedures are explained. We present both the theory when the Optimized Certainty Equivalent is applied recursively as well as the case where it is applied to the cumulated reward. Discounted as well as non-discounted models are reviewed.
Zacopride stimulates 5-HT4 serotonin receptors in the human atrium
Authors: Neumann Joachim , Hesse Christin , Hofmann Britt , Gergs Ulrich
Published: April 2024

Zacopride (4-amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-N-(quinuclidin-3-yl)-benzamide) is a potent agonist in human 5-HT4 serotonin receptors in vitro and in the gastrointestinal tract. Zacopride was studied as an antiemetic drug and was intended to treat gastric diseases. Zacopride has been speculated to be useful as an antiarrhythmic agent in the human ventricle by inhibiting cardiac potassium channels. It is unknown whether zacopride is an agonist in human cardiac 5-HT4 serotonin receptors. We tested the hypothesis that zacopride stimulates human cardiac atrial 5-HT4 serotonin receptors. Zacopride increased the force of contraction and beating rate in isolated atrial preparations from mice with cardiac-specific overexpression of human 5-HT4 serotonin receptors (5-HT4-TG). However, it was inactive in wild-type mouse hearts (WT). Zacopride was as effective as serotonin in raising the force of contraction and beating rate in atrial preparations of 5-HT4-TG. Zacopride raised the force of contraction in human right atrial preparations (HAP) in the absence and presence of the phosphodiesterase III inhibitor cilostamide (1 µM). The positive inotropic effect of zacopride in HAP was attenuated by either 10 µM tropisetron or 1 µM GR125487, both of which are antagonists at 5-HT4 serotonin receptors. These data suggest that zacopride is also an agonist at 5-HT4 serotonin receptors in the human atrium.
An iterative method for the solution of Laplace-like equations in high and very high space dimensions
Authors: Yserentant Harry
Published: April 2024

This paper deals with the equation $$-\varDelta u+\mu u=f$$

-
Δ
u
+
μ
u
=
f

on high-dimensional spaces $${\mathbb {R}}^m$$

R

m

, where the right-hand side $$f(x)=F(Tx)$$

f
(
x
)
=
F
(
T
x
)

is composed of a separable function F with an integrable Fourier transform on a space of a dimension $$n>m$$

n
>
m

and a linear mapping given by a matrix T of full rank and $$\mu \ge 0$$

μ
≥
0

is a constant. For example, the right-hand side can explicitly depend on differences $$x_i-x_j$$

x
i

-

x
j

of components of x. Following our publication (Yserentant in Numer Math 146:219–238, 2020), we show that the solution of this equation can be expanded into sums of functions of the same structure and develop in this framework an equally simple and fast iterative method for its computation. The method is based on the observation that in almost all cases and for large problem classes the expression $$\Vert T^ty\Vert ^2$$

‖

T
t

y
‖

2

deviates on the unit sphere $$\Vert y\Vert =1$$

‖
y
‖
=
1

the less from its mean value the higher the dimension m is, a concentration of measure effect. The higher the dimension m, the faster the iteration converges.
Mutation breeding of high-stress resistant strains for succinic acid production from corn straw
Authors: Wu Jing , Li Yilian , Yin Jinbao , Wang Chen , Qi Xuejin , Zhou Yujie , Liu Hongjuan , Wu Pengfei , Zhang Jianan
Published: April 2024

The production of succinic acid from corn stover is a promising and sustainable route; however, during the pretreatment stage, byproducts such as organic acids, furan-based compounds, and phenolic compounds generated from corn stover inhibit the microbial fermentation process. Selecting strains that are resistant to stress and utilizing nondetoxified corn stover hydrolysate as a feedstock for succinic acid production could be effective. In this study, A. succinogenes CICC11014 was selected as the original strain, and the stress-resistant strain A. succinogenes M4 was obtained by atmospheric and room temperature plasma (ARTP) mutagenesis and further screening. Compared to the original strain, A. succinogenes M4 exhibited a twofold increase in stress resistance and a 113% increase in succinic acid production when hydrolysate was used as the substrate. By conducting whole-genome resequencing of A. succinogenes M4 and comparing it with the original strain, four nonsynonymous gene mutations and two upstream regions with base losses were identified.

Key points

• A high-stress-resistant strain A. succinogenes M4 was obtained by ARTP mutation

•  The production of succinic acid increased by 113%

• The mutated genes of A. succinogenes M4 were detected and analyzed

Graphical Abstract
Low Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid Added to Six Specific Amino Acids in the Treatment of Striae Alba (SA): An Observational Study
Authors: Fasola Elena , Nobile Vincenzo
Published: April 2024

Striae distensae or stretch marks are a common complaint among women and can be distressing. The present study aimed to assess the efficacy of a mixture of low molecular weight hyaluronic acid and six amino acids when applied with a specific intradermal injection technique known as intra-mural fluid technique. A clinical study was carried out in 32 patients (with a dropout rate by 9.4%) with striae distensae alba (SA) in one or more of the following anatomical areas: breast, abdomen, inner thigh, trochanteric area, gluteal area, posterior supra-iliac area, and lumbar area. Product efficacy was assessed by the investigator using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, while a Likert scale was used to evaluate to score the treatment tolerability and a QoL stretch marks questionnaire was used to investigate the patients’ self-body image. The treatment was effective in improving the appearance of SA fifteen days after the second treatment and 6 months after the first treatment (and after a total of 4 treatments). The product efficacy and tolerability were also perceived by the patients during each treatment session. Our results suggest that the test treatment is a valid treatment option to decrease the appearance of SA.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors https://www.springer.com/00266
Lettuce evapotranspiration and crop coefficients using eddy covariance and remote sensing observations
Authors: French Andrew N. , Sanchez Charles A. , Hunsaker Douglas J. , Anderson Ray G. , Saber Mazin N. , Wisniewski Elzbieta H.
Published: April 2024

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) is a high-value crop for irrigation districts in the low deserts of the USA Southwest. To ensure maximal crop quality, negligible soil salinity stress, minimal nutrient loss and reduced pathogen susceptibility, lettuce irrigation must meet, but not exceed, crop water use requirements. However, lettuce crop water use information is outdated in this region: prior studies were conducted at least four decades ago (1960–1980) and do not represent current varieties, management practices, and climate. To address this shortcoming, 12 commercial sites in Yuma, Arizona, USA were evaluated between 2016 and 2020 to update lettuce water use requirements and crop coefficients. The study measured crop evapotranspiration (ETc) using eddy covariance observations at eight iceberg and four romaine sites, where planting dates varied throughout the fall. Observed ETc and remote sensing data were used to model the daily soil water balance and derive crop coefficients: single (Kc), basal (Kcb), and soil evaporation (Ke). The analysis was supported by lettuce crop height estimates and fractional vegetative cover (fc) via remote sensing. Days to maturity averaged 75 ± 15 and 89 ± 12 days for romaine and iceberg, respectively, where season lengths increased as planting dates progressed from early fall to late winter. Average planting date for romaine sites was about 20 days earlier than average iceberg sites. When growing intervals are cast in heat units, dependence on crop type and time of planting was reduced. Average cumulative growing-degree-day and enhanced-degree-day metrics were 1133 ± 87 and 754 ± 48 °C-days, respectively. Seasonal lettuce ETc averaged 278 ± 24 mm. Cumulative irrigation applied, plus precipitation, averaged 355 ± 88 mm. Lettuce Kc for sites varied from 0.90 ± 0.13 to 1.19 ± 0.11 and Kcb from 0.20 ± 0.05 to 1.01 ± 0.11 for the initial and mid-season growth stages, respectively. These updates will help growers improve their irrigation efficiency for lettuce and provide important documentation needed by water managers.
Prediction of Oral Intake at Discharge with Early Assessment of Swallowing Function within 24 h after Admission: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Matsuura Daisuke , Otaka Yohei , Asaumi Saki , Itano Tomomi , Chikamoto Tetsushi , Yamori Shigeru , Murakami Yusuke
Published: April 2024

Dysphagia is one of the most common symptoms of stroke and can lead to other complications such as pneumonia, dehydration, and malnutrition. This retrospective cohort study evaluated the predictive value of a comprehensive swallowing assessment tool, the Mann Assessment of Swallowing Ability (MASA), in the acute phase of stroke for oral intake status at discharge. Among 1,133 consecutive patients with acute stroke, 512 patients whose swallowing function was assessed using the MASA within 24 h of admission were included. Data including demographic information, stroke severity, MASA, Oral Health Assessment Tool, body mass index, and serum albumin level were collected. Predictive factors for oral intake were analyzed using a multiple logistic regression model, and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine the cutoff values of the MASA score for determining oral intake at discharge. Oral intake at discharge was established in 69.1% of the cohort (354/512). The multiple logistic regression analysis identified a higher MASA score, younger age, and higher serum albumin level as significant predictors of oral intake at discharge. The cutoff value of the MASA score for oral intake was 136.5 points, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.87. These findings suggest that the MASA is a valid tool for predicting oral intake in patients with dysphagia during the acute phase of stroke.
Variational three-field reduced order modeling for nearly incompressible materials
Authors: Shamim Muhammad Babar , Wulfinghoff Stephan
Published: April 2024

This study presents an innovative approach for developing a reduced-order model (ROM) tailored specifically for nearly incompressible materials at large deformations. The formulation relies on a three-field variational approach to capture the behavior of these materials. To construct the ROM, the full-scale model is initially solved using the finite element method (FEM), with snapshots of the displacement field being recorded and organized into a snapshot matrix. Subsequently, proper orthogonal decomposition is employed to extract dominant modes, forming a reduced basis for the ROM. Furthermore, we efficiently address the pressure and volumetric deformation fields by employing the k-means algorithm for clustering. A well-known three-field variational principle allows us to incorporate the clustered field variables into the ROM. To assess the performance of our proposed ROM, we conduct a comprehensive comparison of the ROM with and without clustering with the FEM solution. The results highlight the superiority of the ROM with pressure clustering, particularly when considering a limited number of modes, typically fewer than 10 displacement modes. Our findings are validated through two standard examples: one involving a block under compression and another featuring Cook’s membrane. In both cases, we achieve substantial improvements based on the three-field mixed approach. These compelling results underscore the effectiveness of our ROM approach, which accurately captures nearly incompressible material behavior while significantly reducing computational expenses.
Design of a detachable bronchoscope for endotracheal intubation
Authors: Kohanfars Matthew , Laha Avinash , Li Yu M. , Morris Karcher , Ahadian Farshad , Talke Frank E.
Published: April 2024

A novel detachable bronchoscope with a 3D printed micro-transmission is investigated. The micro-transmission controls the motion of the tip of the bronchoscope and is embedded in one end of the flexible insertion section of the bronchoscope. The micro-transmission allows manipulation of the distal end through the translation of guide nuts that are connected to the tip of the bronchoscope through so-called “angulation” wires. The displacement of the guide nuts on the left and right-handed screw sections and the control of the distal end of the bronchoscope are investigated. The maximum tensile force on the angulation wire before failure is determined experimentally for different screw pitches.
Association of visceral adipose tissue with albuminuria and interaction between visceral adiposity and diabetes on albuminuria
Authors: Liu Yufang , Zhao Dan , Chai Sanbao , Zhang Xiaomei
Published: April 2024

Aims

To explore the correlation between visceral adipose tissue and albuminuria, and whether there is interaction between visceral adipose tissue and diabetes on albuminuria.

Methods

The study subjects were adult subjects (age ≥ 18 years) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) database of the USA in 2017–2018. Visceral fat area (VFA) was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Subjects were divided into three groups according to VFA: low (VFA 0–60cm2), medium (VFA 60–120 cm2) and high (VFA ≥ 120 cm2). Albuminuria was defined as urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥ 30 mg/g. The statistical analysis software used is STATA 17.0.

Results

Data pertaining to 2965 participants (2706 without albuminuria) were included in the analysis. High VFA is an independent risk factor for albuminuria (OR 1.367, 95% CI 1.023–1.827). In the low-VFA group, there is no significant association between diabetes and albuminuria (OR 1.415, 95% CI 0.145–13.849). In the medium-VFA group, diabetes is an independent risk factor for albuminuria (OR 2.217, 95% CI 1.095–4.488). In the high-VFA group, diabetes is also an independent risk factor for albuminuria (OR 5.150, 95% CI 3.150–8.421). There is an additive interaction between high VFA (VFA ≥ 120 cm2) and diabetes on the effect of albuminuria (RERI 3.757, 95% CI 0.927–6.587, p = 0.009), while no multiplication interaction (OR 1.881, 95% CI 0.997–1.023, p = 0.141).

Conclusions

High VFA may represent an independent risk factor for albuminuria. The amount of visceral fat may affect the effect of diabetes on albuminuria. The higher the visceral fat, the stronger the correlation between diabetes and albuminuria should be present. We suppose an additive interaction between VFA and diabetes on the effect of albuminuria.
Long-term outcome of surgically treated and conservatively managed Rathke cleft cysts
Authors: Schmutzer-Sondergeld Michael , Weller Jonathan , Thorsteinsdottir Jun , Schichor Christian , Rachinger Walter , Thon Niklas , Ueberschaer Moritz
Published: April 2024

Objective

Rathke cleft cysts (RCC) are benign lesions of the sellar region that require surgical treatment in case of visual deterioration or progression of the cyst. However, the natural course is often stable and asymptomatic.

We aimed to investigate the characteristics of patients with cyst progression during follow-up (FU) and to compare the natural history of patients with RCC with patients who underwent surgery.

Methods

Patients with an MR morphologic cystic sellar lesion classified as RCC between 04/2001 and 11/2020 were included. Functional outcomes, including ophthalmologic, endocrinologic, and MRI data, were retrospectively analyzed and compared between surgically treated patients, patients on a “watch and wait” strategy (WWS), and patients on a WWS who underwent secondary surgery due to cyst progression.

Results

One hundred forty patients (median age 42.8 years) with RCC on MRI were identified. 52/140 (37.1%) underwent primary surgery. Of 88 patients (62.9%) with initial WWS, 21 (23.9%) underwent surgery for secondary cyst progression. Patients on the WWS had significantly smaller cyst volumes (p = 0.0001) and fewer visual disturbances (p = 0.0004), but a similar rate of hormone deficiencies (p = 0.99) compared with surgically treated patients preoperatively. Postoperatively patients suffered significantly more often from hormone deficiencies than WWS patients (p = 0.001).

Patients who switched to the surgical group were significantly more likely to have preoperative T1 hyperintense signals on MRI (p = 0.0001) and visual disturbances (p = 0.001) than patients with continuous WWS. Postoperatively, these patients suffered more frequently from new hormonal deficiencies (p = 0.001). Endocrine and ophthalmologic outcomes in patients with primary and secondary surgery were comparable.

Multivariate analysis showed that WWS patients were at a higher risk of requiring surgery for cyst progression when perimetric deficits (p = 0.006), hyperprolactinemia (p = 0.003), and corticotropic deficits (p = 0.005) were present.

Conclusion

Surgical treatment of RCC may cause new hormonal deficiencies, which are rare in the natural course. Therefore, the indication for surgery should be carefully evaluated. Hyperprolactinemia and corticotropic deficits were significant indicators for a secondary cyst progression in patients with RCC. However, a significant amount of almost 25% of initially conservatively managed cysts showed deterioration, necessary for surgical intervention.
No evidence tube entrapment distresses rodents in typical empathy tests
Authors: Nugroho Dwi Atmoko Agung , Kusrohmaniah Sri , Pilz Emma , Krikorian Clare , Kearns David , Slotnick Burton , Gomez Maria , Silberberg Alan
Published: April 2024

In the first two experiments an empty tube open at one end was placed in different locations. Male hamsters, tested one at a time, tended to stay close to the tube or in it. During the first minute of the first 4 sessions of Experiment 3, the hamster was unrestrained. If it entered the tube, it was locked within the tube. If it did not enter the tube during the first min, it was placed in it, and the tube was locked. Fifteen min later, the tube was opened, and the hamster was unrestrained for a further 20 min. The tube remained open during Session 5. Hamsters spent more time near the tube than predicted by chance and continued to enter the tube although tube-occupancy duration did not differ from chance levels. In Experiment 4, male rats were tested in two groups: rats in one group had been previously trapped in a tube and rats in the other group allowed to freely explore the test space. For the first two min of each of four 20-min sessions, trapped-group subjects were permitted to move about the chamber unless they entered the tube. In that case, they were locked in for the remainder of the session. If, after two min, they did not enter the tube, they were locked in it for the remaining 18 min. Free rats were unrestricted in all sessions. In Session 5, when both groups were permitted to move freely in the chamber, trapped and free rats spent more time in and near the tube than predicted by chance. These data show tube restraint does not seem to distress either hamsters or rats.