bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of the damage equivalence factors for steel railway bridges in the Eurocodes
Authors: Martinolli Stefan , Kroyer Robert , Taras Andreas
Published: September 2023

Proper fatigue design is essential for the sustainable operation of bridge structures. The fatigue design concept in the Eurocodes follows the damage equivalent concept allowing to conduct this relatively extensive design check as efficiently as possible. However, those factors cover a rather complex phenomenon and the code provides them in a standardized format. The actually required values are typically lower, but the parameter calibration and the included reserves are non‐transparent from the design standards.

The objective of this paper is to recall the methodology for calibration of the damage equivalence factors and to review the damage equivalence factors given for steel railway bridges in EN 1993‐2. After a discussion on the assumptions in the Eurocode in context with the damage equivalent concept, the presented methodology is applied to recalculate the damage equivalence factors for the railway traffic spectrums in Eurocode 3. The obtained results verify the damage equivalence factors in the Eurocode 3 and figure out the span‐dependent safety margins in those factors. To investigate the influence of the traffic spectrum, the damage equivalence factors were also determined for a traffic spectrum provided by the Swiss national railway authorities for comparative purpose.
Machine learning‐based predictions of buckling behaviour of cold‐formed steel structural elements
Authors: Mojtabaei Seyed Mohammad , Becque Jurgen , Khandan Rasoul , Hajirasouliha Iman
Published: September 2023

Designing thin‐walled structural members is a complex process due to the possibility of multiple instabilities. This study aimed to develop machine learning algorithms to predict the buckling behavior of thin‐walled channel elements under axial compression or bending. The algorithms were trained using feed‐forward multi‐layer Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), with the input variables including the cross‐sectional dimensions, the thickness, the presence and location of intermediate stiffeners, and the element length. The output data included the elastic critical buckling load or moment, as well as a modal decomposition of the buckled shape into the pure buckling mode categories: local, distortional and global buckling. The Finite Strip Method (FSM) and the Equivalent Nodal Force Method (ENFM) were used to prepare the sample output for training. To ensure the accuracy of the developed algorithms, the ANN models were subjected to a K‐fold cross‐validation technique and featured optimized hyperparameters. The results showed that the trained algorithms had a remarkable accuracy of 98% in predicting the elastic critical buckling loads and modal decomposition of the critical buckled shapes.
Numerical Assessment of The Robustness of a Corner‐supported Modular Steel Building
Authors: Heng Si Hwa , Hyland David , Hough Michael , McCrum Daniel
Published: September 2023

This paper investigates the robustness of a 6‐storey corner‐supported Modular Steel Building (MSB) under notional ground floor corner column removal (i.e. alternate path method). The robustness assessment investigates the following structural effects that were frequently ignored for the sake of simplicity in existing numerical modelling approaches: (1) semi‐rigidity in the beam‐to‐column connections, and (2) initial out‐of‐straightness (geometric imperfection) in the compression members. Commonly, the welded connections between the beams and square hollow section columns are modelled as fully rigid, however, this may overestimate the actual robustness of MSBs as fully rigid connections often have a higher energy absorption capacity. Similarly, modelling a perfectly straight column could overestimate the actual robustness of MSBs. Comparing the model with semi‐rigid connections to that with fully rigid connections, an additional 30% vertical displacement was observed at the point of removal. However, geometric imperfections in the columns and diagonal braces did not cause any increase in building displacement/drift after removal. This highlights the importance of modelling the semi‐rigidity in the connections especially when the connections involve joining hollow sections.
A Living Topochemical Ring‐Opening Polymerization of Achiral Amino Acid N‐Carboxy‐Anhydrides in Single Crystals
Authors: Rohmer Matthias , Ebbinghaus Stefan G. , Busse Karsten , Radicke Julian , Kressler Jörg , Binder Wolfgang H.
Published: September 2023

A living topochemical ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of achiral amino‐acid N‐carboxyanhydrides (NCAs) is reported. Single crystals of the NCAs of α‐aminoisobutyric acid (Aib) and 1‐aminocyclohexanecarboxylic acid (ACHC) were grown, allowing a ring‐opening polymerization macroscopically induced by amines. The single crystals could be polymerized at temperatures from 25–50 °C after physically contacting the amine‐based initiator with the crystals. Topochemical polymerization of the crystals was proven by MALDI‐ToF MS and XRD, generating polymers with chain lengths of up to 40 units and a complete affixation of the initiating amine at the polymer's head. Due to the proper alignment of the reacting groups in the crystal, longer polymer chains with improved purities can be reached, as chain‐transfer is reduced as compared to solution polymerization. Simple purification of the polymers can be achieved by separation of the unreacted NCA via dispersion in acetonitrile. Overall, this method enables the preparation of polymers with higher chain length and purities at mild conditions, finally demonstrating a crystal‐based ring opening polymerization.
Does community attitude matter? The effects of local community environmental orientation on firms' environmental practices
Authors: Cai Shaohan , Wang Zhining , Yang Zhilin
Published: September 2023

From the perspective of institutional theory, prior studies mostly focus on the effects of regulatory and normative forces on firms' environmental practices. We argue that, as a cultural‐cognitive force, local community environmental orientation is another key factor determining firms' environmental practices and performance. With data collected from multiple respondents in 372 Chinese firms, this study demonstrates that such orientation affects two other types of institutional forces facing companies, namely, local legislation and community stakeholders' pressures. These two types of forces complement each other and jointly affect firms' environmental actions, such as green investment and environmental operations, which subsequently affect firms' social reputation. However, local environmental orientation does not directly affect firms' environmental actions. These findings suggest that institutional forces interact with each other to shape firms' environmental actions.
Solvent Effects on the Chemo‐ and Site‐Selectivity of Transition Metal‐Catalyzed Nitrene Transfer Reactions: Alternatives to Chlorinated Solvents**
Authors: Ward Robert M. , Hu Yun , Tu Noah P. , Schomaker Jennifer M.
Published: September 2023

Transition metal‐catalyzed, non‐enzymatic nitrene transfer (NT) reactions to selectively transform C−H and C=C bonds to new C−N bonds are a powerful strategy to streamline the preparation of valuable amine building blocks. However, many catalysts for these reactions use environmentally unfriendly solvents that include dichloromethane, chloroform, 1,2‐dichloroethane and benzene. We developed a high‐throughput experimentation (HTE) protocol for heterogeneous NT reaction mixtures to enable rapid screening of a broad range of solvents for this chemistry. Coupled with the American Chemical Society Pharmaceutical Roundtable (ACSPR) solvent tool, we identified several attractive replacements for chlorinated solvents. Selected catalysts for NT were compared and contrasted using our HTE protocol, including silver supported by N‐dentate ligands, dinuclear Rh complexes and Fe/Mn phthalocyanine catalysts.
Signal detection theory applied to giant pandas: Do pandas go out of their way to make sure their scent marks are found?
Authors: Wang Yue , Swaisgood Ronald R. , Wei Wei , Zhou Hong , Yuan Feiyun , Hong Mingsheng , Han Han , Zhang Zejun
Published: September 2023

Inter‐animal communication allows signals released by an animal to be perceived by others. Scent‐marking is the primary mode of such communication in giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca). Signal detection theory propounds that animals choose the substrate and location of their scent marks so that the signals released are transmitted more widely and last longer. We believe that pandas trade‐off scent‐marking because they are an energetically marginal species and it is costly to generate and mark chemical signals. Existing studies only indicate where pandas mark more frequently, but their selection preferences remain unknown. This study investigates whether the marking behavior of pandas is consistent with signal detection theory. Feces count, reflecting habitat use intensity, was combined with mark count to determine the selection preference for marking. The results showed that pandas preferred to mark ridges with animal trails and that most marked tree species were locally dominant. In addition, marked plots and species were selected for lower energy consumption and a higher chance of being detected. Over 90% of the marks used were the longest‐surviving anogenital gland secretion marks, and over 80% of the marks were oriented toward animal trails. Our research demonstrates that pandas go out of their way to make sure their marks are found. This study not only sheds light on the mechanisms of scent‐marking by pandas but also guides us toward more precise conservation of the panda habitat.
Assessing the economy using faster indicators
Authors: Kapetanios George , Papailias Fotis
Published: September 2023

This paper constructs a coincident indicator for the United Kingdom employing—for the first time—a novel set of “faster” indicators recently published by the Office for National Statistics. Most of these variables were first released during the COVID‐19 pandemic with the aim of facilitating economics and social research by more timely indicators. The empirical evidence suggests that a coincident indicator based on a novel weekly dataset successfully captures the economic conditions in real time. We further use this indicator in an out‐of‐sample macroeconomic nowcasting exercise targeting monthly economic growth, prices and retail sales.
Regulatory Economics: Fracking Opposition Fizzling
Authors: Barclay Richard A.
Published: September 2023

A Canadian energy producer recently announced plans to frack as many as 500 wells in northern Michigan, each extending nearly two miles underground and nearly two miles horizontally. Overall, response from opponents was muted.
Energy and the Environment: Keystone Cops (and Robbers)—Canadian Imports Threatened
Authors: Lesser Jonathan A.
Published: September 2023

The Keystone XL pipeline is the environmentalists' (and President Obama's) latest bête noire, a project regarded as so destructive and, well, evil, that it might as well be Dr. Strangelove's doomsday device. Of course, if it is not built, the earth is still doomed, but at least it will not be the result of Keystone; some other calamitous project will take its place.
Impacts of snow surface aerodynamic resistance on snow water equivalent simulations in forested regions
Authors: Tang Xiaoyang , Tang Deshan , Wang Zhaocheng , Cederstrom Charles J. , Vivoni Enrique R.
Published: September 2023

The aerodynamic resistance at the snow surface (ras) has an influence on the snowpack energy balance. However, there are no widely accepted approaches for parameterizing ras in forested regions. In this study, we derived ras under the influence of forest vegetation for five cases that depend on the canopy height and structure. Three parameterization schemes for ras were then integrated into a distributed hydrologic model: (1) the aerodynamic resistance above the canopy, ignoring the canopy structure effects on ras, (2) the full aerodynamic resistance formulation for the different canopy height cases, and (3) a simplified formulation that only represented the lower trunk layer. Model simulations were conducted at six snow telemetry (SNOTEL) sites in the Verde River Watershed, Arizona, and evaluated with respect to snow water equivalent (SWE) product from the SNOTEL sites and a gridded product. Results revealed the importance of accurately parameterizing vegetation canopy structure when calculating ras in forested regions. Cases where ras included the vertical structure effects showed improved simulations of SWE across all sites. Finally, ras is mostly determined by trunk layer aerodynamic resistance such that the simplified formulation is sufficient for representing forest canopy effects on ras.
Counseling, informed consent, and debriefing for cesarean section in sub‐Saharan Africa: A scoping review
Authors: Faysal Sumeya , Penn‐Kekana Loveday , Day Louise‐Tina , Tripathi Vandana , Khan Farhad , Stafford Renae , Levin Karen , Campbell Oona , Filippi Veronique
Published: September 2023

Background

Counseling as part of the informed consent process is a prerequisite for cesarean section (CS). Postnatal debriefing allows women to explore their CS with their healthcare providers (HCPs).

Objectives

To describe the practices and experiences of counseling and debriefing, the barriers and facilitators to informed consent for CS; and to document the effectiveness of the interventions used to improve informed consent found in the peer‐reviewed literature.

Search Strategy

The databases searched were PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Africa‐wide information, African Index Medicus, IMSEAR and LILACS.

Selection Criteria

English‐language papers focusing on consent for CS, published between 2011 and 2022, and assessed to be of medium to high quality were included.

Data Collection and Analysis

A narrative synthesis was conducted using Beauchamp and Childress's elements of informed consent as a framework.

Main Results

Among the 21 included studies reporting on consent for CS, 12 papers reported on counseling for CS, while only one reported on debriefing. Barriers were identified at the service, woman, provider, and societal levels. Facilitators all operated at the provider level and interventions operated at the service or provider levels.

Conclusions

There is a paucity of research on informed consent, counseling, and debriefing for CS in sub‐Saharan Africa.
Differential influence of basic psychological needs on burnout and academic achievement in three southeast European countries
Authors: Zupančič Nina , Palanović Antun , Ružojčić Mitja , Boštjančič Eva , Popov Boris , Jelić Dragana , Galić Zvonimir
Published: September 2023

Several studies show the importance of basic psychological needs (BPN) for decreasing burnout and increasing grade point average (GPA), but, to our knowledge, no prior study has explored the potential contextual differences in Southeastern European countries. Moreover, even less is known about how this relationship may differ during stressful (exam) and less stressful (beginning of the semester) periods. Measures of the Maslach Burnout Inventory—Student Survey and BPN Satisfaction and Frustration Scale were translated and adapted. The study included a cross‐sectional sample of students from Croatia, Serbia and Slovenia during beginning of the semester and exam period. Across all countries and both contexts, students with high autonomy need satisfaction showed the strongest decrease in burnout, followed by those with high competence need satisfaction. Students with high academic achievement showed an increase due to competence need satisfaction. Competence and autonomy need satisfaction were higher beginning of a semester, while burnout was higher during the exam period. BPN play an important role in educational settings—satisfaction of the need for autonomy and competence protects students from burnout, and the need for competence predicts greater academic achievement regardless of culture or time of the semester.
Frontier of toxicology studies in zebrafish model
Authors: Shao Xinting , Xiao Dandan , Yang Zhaoyi , Jiang Lulu , Li Yong , Wang Ye , Ding Yuling
Published: September 2023

Based on the 87 original publications only from quartiles 1 and 2 of Journal Citation Report (JCR) collected by the major academic databases (Science Direct, Web of Science, PubMed, and Wiley) in 2022, the frontier of toxicology studies in zebrafish model is summarized. Herewith, a total of six aspects is covered such as developmental, neurological, cardiovascular, hepatic, reproductive, and immunizing toxicities. The tested samples involve chemicals, drugs, new environmental pollutants, nanomaterials, and its derivatives, along with those related mechanisms. This report may provide a frontier focus benefit to researchers engaging in a zebrafish model for environment, medicine, food, and other fields.
Immunological Characterization of Chronic Nonbacterial Osteomyelitis (CNO) in Adults: A Cross‐Sectional Exploratory Study
Authors: Leerling Anne T. , Andeweg Elisabeth H. , Faber Juliette , Streefland Trea C.M. , Dekkers Olaf M. , Appelman‐Dijkstra Natasha M. , Winter Elizabeth M.
Published: September 2023

Chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis (CNO) is a rare disease spectrum affecting children and adults. Adult CNO may occur as isolated bone inflammation, or with a broad range of extraskeletal features. CNO pathophysiology, including the key drivers of inflammation, remains largely unknown. For pediatric CNO, a role for pro‐inflammatory cytokine dysregulation has been proposed, but studies in adults are scarce. We therefore provide immunological characterization of adult CNO. Cross‐sectional study in our referral center including adult CNO patients (n = 172) and healthy controls (n = 65). Inflammation parameters and systemic inflammatory based scores(SIBS, including neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio [NLR] and systemic immune inflammation index [SII]) were compared between groups. Cytokine expression was explored with electrochemiluminescent immunoassays in 33 patients, eight healthy controls and 21 osteoporosis patients. Routine inflammation markers were higher in patients than in controls, but generally remained within reference range. Systemic inflammation was more pronounced in patients with additional vertebral involvement as compared to those osteitis in the anterior chest wall alone, in patients with comorbid pustulosis palmoplantaris or psoriasis, and in patients with strongly rather than moderately increased lesional uptake on nuclear imaging. SII was elevated in CNO patients too, but NLR was not. Cytokine expression was generally nondifferential between patients and both control groups, and patients displayed low absolute concentrations of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. In this adult CNO cohort, systemic inflammation was generally subtle, but more pronounced in patients with vertebral lesions, associated skin disease, and strongly increased uptake on nuclear imaging. SII was increased in patients compared to healthy controls. Contrasting pediatric studies, we found no increased expression of the pro‐inflammatory cytokines that have been proposed to drive the inflammatory cascade, like interleukin‐6, ‐8, and ‐17 (IL‐6, IL‐8, and IL‐17), and tumor necrosis α (TNF‐α). Further studies are needed to evaluate the use of SII in diagnosis and monitoring of CNO, and elucidate the role of cytokine dysregulation in adult disease. © 2023 The Authors.JBMR Pluspublished by Wiley Periodicals LLC. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Response of the mechanical and chiral character of ethane to ultra‐fast laser pulses
Authors: Mi Xiao Peng , Lu Hui , Xu Tianlv , Früchtl Herbert , van Mourik Tanja , Paterson Martin J. , Kirk Steven R. , Jenkins Samantha
Published: September 2023

A pair of simulated left and right circularly polarized ultra‐fast laser pulses of duration 20 femtoseconds that induce a mixture of excited states are applied to ethane. The response of the electron dynamics is investigated within the next generation quantum theory of atoms in molecules (NG‐QTAIM) using third‐generation eigenvector‐trajectories which are introduced in this work. This enables an analysis of the mechanical and chiral properties of the electron dynamics of ethane without needing to subject the C‐C bond to external torsions as was the case for second‐generation eigenvector‐trajectories. The mechanical properties, in particular, the bond‐flexing and bond‐torsion were found to increase depending on the plane of the applied laser pulses. The bond‐flexing and bond‐torsion, depending on the plane of polarization, increases or decreases after the laser pulses are switched off. This is explainable in terms of directionally‐dependent effects of the long‐lasting superpositions of excited states. The chiral properties correspond to the ethane molecule being classified as formally achiral consistent with previous NG‐QTAIM investigations. Future planned investigations using ultra‐fast circularly polarized lasers are briefly discussed.
Benchmarking boron cluster calculations: Establishing reliable geometrical and energetic references for Bn (n = 1–4)
Authors: Liu Lina , Wei Zhihong , Chen Qiang , Shen Chaoren , Shen Tonghao , Tian Xinxin , Li Si‐Dian
Published: September 2023

Using full configuration interaction (FCI) and multi‐reference configuration interaction methods (MRCI), reliable geometrical and energetic references for Bn (n = 1–4) clusters were established. The accuracy of the computed results was confirmed by comparison with available experimental data. Benchmark calculations indicated that B97D3, B97D, VSXC, HCTH407, BP86 and CCSD(T) methods provided reasonable results for structural parameters, with mean absolute error (MAEs) within 0.020 Å. Among the tested density functional theory (DFT) methods, the VSXC functional showed the best performance in predicting the relative energies of B1B4 with a MAE of 12.8 kJ mol−1. Besides, B1B95, B971, TPSS, B3LYP, and BLYP functionals exhibited reasonable performance with MAE values of less than 15.0 kJ mol−1. T1 diagnostic values between 0.035 and 0.109 at the CCSD(T) level revealed strong correlations in B2B4 clusters, highlighting the need for caution in using CCSD(T) as an energy reference for small boron clusters. The methods of CCSDT, CCSDT(Q) and CCSDT[Q], which incorporate three‐electron and four‐electron excitations, effectively improved the accuracy of the energy calculations.
Managing the sexualization of the dentist‐patient relationship by the patient: Innovative teaching through forum‐theatre
Authors: Germa Alice , Vital Sibylle , Gosset Marjolaine
Published: September 2023

Dental students may be exposed to patients' sexual behavior. We developed a theater‐forum session whose aims were to identify when the patient's behavior crosses the line, to collectively develop cover strategies, and to present the reporting system. The strategies pointed out by the group were to ask a pair to be present, set limits on personal life, share discomfort to the patient and report the situation to the staff. Theater‐forum is a powerful tool for this learning process
Autophagy and vesicular trafficking in human uveal melanoma: A histopathological study
Authors: Taskaeva Iuliia , Shatruk Anastasia , Bgatova Nataliya , Yeremina Alena , Trunov Aleksander , Kononova Natalya , Chernykh Valeriy
Published: September 2023

Uveal melanoma is an ocular tumor with a high risk of developing metastases. The endo‐lysosomal system can affect the melanoma progression by accelerating and facilitating invasion or metastasis. This study aims to conduct comparative analysis of normal choroidal melanocytes and uveal melanoma cells ultrastructure with a focus on intracellular transport system, and to examine the patterns of autophagy‐ and vesicular trafficking‐related proteins expression in a case series of uveal melanomas. Transmission electron microscopy was used to assess the ultrastructure of normal choroidal melanocytes and uveal melanoma cells. The expression levels of autophagy‐ and vesicular trafficking‐related proteins in three histological types of uveal melanoma were analyzed by immunofluorescence staining. Electron microscopy results showed that the autophagic vacuoles were more abundant in normal choroidal melanocytes, than in uveal melanoma cells. The normal choroidal melanocytes were characterized by active intracellular vesicular trafficking; however, the proportion of caveolae was higher in uveal melanoma cells. The spindle type of tumor was characterized by a high expression levels of LC3 beta, while Rab7 and Rab11 proteins expression was significantly up‐regulated in the mixed‐type tumor cells. The results indicate that uveal melanoma cells probably have lower basal levels of autophagy and higher receptor‐mediated endocytic trafficking‐associated with caveolae than normal choroidal melanocytes.

Research Highlights

The autophagic vacuoles are abundant in normal choroidal melanocytes.

Uveal melanoma cells are characterized by a high proportion of caveolae.

The high expression levels of LC3 beta were revealed in a spindle type of tumor, while Rab7 and Rab11 proteins expression was up‐regulated in the mixed‐type tumor cells.
Risk factors for early and late cholecystitis after covered metal stent placement for distal biliary obstruction
Authors: Ishii Tatsuya , Hayashi Tsuyoshi , Yamazaki Hajime , Nakamura Risa , Iwano Kosuke , Ando Ryo , Toyonaga Haruka , Kin Toshifumi , Takahashi Kuniyuki , Katanuma Akio
Published: September 2023

Background

Cholecystitis is a major adverse event after self‐expandable metallic stent placement for distal biliary obstruction (DBO). Covered self‐expandable metallic stent (CSEMS) is being increasingly used, but few studies have investigated risk factors for cholecystitis limited to CSEMS. The present study aimed to identify risk factors for cholecystitis after CSEMS.

Methods

Patients who underwent initial CSEMS placement for DBO between November 2014 and September 2021 were enrolled and followed‐up until death, recurrent biliary obstruction, cholecystitis, or until March 2022. Cholecystitis within 30 days of CSEMS was defined as early cholecystitis and after 30 days as late cholecystitis.

Results

Cholecystitis occurred in 51 of 339 patients (15%) after CSEMS. Forty‐one patients (80.4%) had early cholecystitis, and 10 (19.6%) had late cholecystitis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the maximum diameter of the common bile duct (CBD) (per 1 mm increase) (odds ratio [OR]: 0.87; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.76–1.00; p = .044), gallbladder stones (OR: 3.63; 95% CI: 1.62–8.10; p = .002), and tumor involvement in the cystic duct (CD) (OR: 4.87; 95% CI: 2.16–11.00; p < .001) were significant independent risk factors associated with early cholecystitis. No significant risk factors were identified for late cholecystitis.

Conclusions

A smaller CBD diameter, gallbladder stones, and tumor involvement in the CD were identified as risk factors for early cholecystitis development after CSEMS.
P2Y12 receptor residues crucial for thrombosis regulation
Authors: Vidhya M.
Published: September 2023

Thrombosis, or the formation of blood clots, can lead to serious medical conditions such as stroke, heart attack, and deep vein thrombosis. The purinoreceptor P2Y12 plays a critical role in the thrombotic pathway and is targeted for therapy to prevent clot formation. However, it is essential to balance the regulation of thrombosis to avoid adverse situations. This study focuses on the P2Y12 receptor and aims to discern the protein residue network and differentiate residues based on their intramolecular interactions. The study utilized a statistical analysis to characterize the significant residues involved in ligand interaction, which helps to identify critical residues that are essential for the function of the receptor. A parametric analysis of interactions of residues in the intraprotein interaction was conducted, which revealed significant residue‐based contacts that facilitate protein interactions. By examining the interactions between residues, the mechanisms underlying protein interactions were studied and the importance of specific residues in facilitating these interactions was determined. This research provides important information on P2Y12, and the findings based on the network based significance of interacting residues may contribute to the development of new therapies that target the receptor to prevent clot formation while maintaining a balance in thrombosis regulation to avoid adverse outcomes. Ultimately, this study could lead to improved treatments for thrombotic disorders and better patient outcomes.
Gossypin mitigates oxidative damage by downregulating the molecular signaling pathway in oleic acid‐induced acute lung injury
Authors: Dincer Busra , Cinar Irfan , Erol Huseyin Serkan , Demirci Beste , Terzi Funda
Published: September 2023

One of the leading causes of acute lung injury, which is linked to a high death rate, is pulmonary fat embolism. Increases in proinflammatory cytokines and the production of free radicals are related to the pathophysiology of acute lung injury. Antioxidants that scavenge free radicals play a protective role against acute lung injury. Gossypin has been proven to have antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti‐inflammatory properties. In this study, we compared the role of Gossypin with the therapeutically used drug Dexamethasone in the acute lung injury model caused by oleic acid in rats. Thirty rats were divided into five groups; Sham, Oleic acid model, Oleic acid+Dexamethasone (0.1 mg/kg), Oleic acid+Gossypin (10 and 20 mg/kg). Two hours after pretreatment with Dexamethasone or Gossypin, the acute lung injury model was created by injecting 1 g/kg oleic acid into the femoral vein. Three hours following the oleic acid injection, rats were decapitated. Lung tissues were extracted for histological, immunohistochemical, biochemical, PCR, and SEM imaging assessment. The oleic acid injection caused an increase in lipid peroxidation and catalase activity, pathological changes in lung tissue, decreased superoxide dismutase activity, and glutathione level, and increased TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and IL‐8 expression. However, these changes were attenuated after treatment with Gossypin and Dexamethasone. By reducing the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and attenuating oxidative stress, Gossypin pretreatment provides a new target that is equally effective as dexamethasone in the treatment of oleic acid‐induced acute lung injury.
Examination of autoantibodies to type I interferon in patients suffering from long COVID
Authors: Hansen Kristoffer Skaalum , Jørgensen Sofie Eg , Skouboe Morten Kelder , Agergaard Jane , Schiøttz‐Christensen Berit , Vibholm Line Khalidan , Tolstrup Martin , Østergaard Lars , Leth Steffen , Mogensen Trine H.
Published: September 2023

Long COVID (LC) is an emerging global health concern. The underlying mechanism and pathophysiology remain unclear. Presence of neutralizing autoantibodies against type 1 interferons (IFN) has been established as a predictor of critical COVID‐19. We hypothesized that persistent autoimmune activity with autoantibodies against type 1 IFN may contribute to symptoms in patients with LC. Plasma samples and clinical information were obtained from a Danish LC cohort consisting of adult patients with confirmed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection. Information on symptoms and quality of life was derived from an LC‐specific questionnaire and the EQ‐5D‐5L questionnaire. Detection of type 1 IFN autoantibodies in plasma were performed by ELISA. Samples collected between June, 2020, and September, 2021, from 279 patients were analyzed and compared to a control group of 94 individuals with prior mild SARS‐CoV‐2 infection who did not develop LC symptoms. In total, five LC patients (1.8%) and 3 (3.2%) of the controls had detectable circulating type 1 IFN autoantibodies. Collectively, prevalence of autoantibodies against type 1 IFN subtypes in our LC cohort were primarily driven by men and did not exceed the prevalence in controls. Thus, in our cohort, anti‐type I IFN autoantibodies are unlikely to drive LC symptoms.
Predicting discontinuation of biologic therapy caused by adverse events in psoriasis patients—A Danish nationwide cohort study
Authors: Nielsen Mia‐Louise , Petersen Troels C. , Maul Julia‐Tatjana , Wu Jashin J. , Bertelsen Trine , Skov Lone , Thomsen Simon F. , Thyssen Jacob P. , Egeberg Alexander
Published: September 2023

Background

Some patients treated with biologic therapy for psoriasis experience adverse events causing treatment discontinuation.

Objectives

To identify predictors of adverse events resulting in discontinuation of biologics for psoriasis.

Methods

This cohort study involved data from the Danish nationwide registry DERMBIO. A classification algorithm based on gradient‐boosted decision trees combined with a mixed‐effects model was applied to data on various drugs to predict treatment discontinuation caused by adverse events and to identify important predictors.

Results

This study comprised 4876 treatment series, including 3078 (63.1%) that were discontinued. With adverse events causing 19.6% of these, it was the second most frequent reason for discontinuation following ineffectiveness. The proportion of treatments discontinued due to adverse events was 20.0% [16.7%, 23.9%; 95% confidence interval (CI)] among patients that had discontinued their previous treatment series due to adverse events, and 11.6% [10.3%, 13.1%; 95% CI] among treatment series where the previous treatment was discontinued due to other reasons (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The proportion of treatment series discontinued due to adverse events among patients who had discontinued their previous treatment due to adverse events was 72.4% larger compared to those who discontinued their previous treatment for other reasons.
Signaling pathways in macrophages: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets
Authors: Li Ming , Wang Mengjie , Wen Yuanjia , Zhang Hongfei , Zhao Guang‐Nian , Gao Qinglei
Published: September 2023

Macrophages play diverse roles in development, homeostasis, and immunity. Accordingly, the dysfunction of macrophages is involved in the occurrence and progression of various diseases, such as coronavirus disease 2019 and atherosclerosis. The protective or pathogenic effect that macrophages exert in different conditions largely depends on their functional plasticity, which is regulated via signal transduction such as Janus kinase–signal transducer and activator of transcription, Wnt and Notch pathways, stimulated by environmental cues. Over the past few decades, the molecular mechanisms of signaling pathways in macrophages have been gradually elucidated, providing more alternative therapeutic targets for diseases treatment. Here, we provide an overview of the basic physiology of macrophages and expound the regulatory pathways within them. We also address the crucial role macrophages play in the pathogenesis of diseases, including autoimmune, neurodegenerative, metabolic, infectious diseases, and cancer, with a focus on advances in macrophage‐targeted strategies exploring modulation of components and regulators of signaling pathways. Last, we discuss the challenges and possible solutions of macrophage‐targeted therapy in clinical applications. We hope that this comprehensive review will provide directions for further research on therapeutic strategies targeting macrophage signaling pathways, which are promising to improve the efficacy of disease treatment.
Evaluating mesh use for abdominal donor site closure after deep inferior epigastric perforator flap breast reconstruction: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Parmeshwar Nisha , Lem Melinda , Dugan Catherine L , Piper Merisa
Published: September 2023

Background

Despite improvement in abdominal morbidity with deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction compared to prior abdominally‐based free flap breast reconstruction, abdominal bulge, and hernia rates have been cited anywhere from 2% to 33%. As a result, some surgeons utilize mesh or other reinforcement upon donor‐site closure, but its benefit in preventing abdominal wall morbidity has not been well‐defined for DIEP flaps. The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate DIEP donor‐site closure techniques and the impact of mesh type and plane on abdominal‐wall morbidity including hernia and bulge, relative to primary fascial closure.

Methods

MEDLINE, PubMED, Cochrane Library, and SCOPUS were systematically reviewed for studies evaluating DIEP flap breast reconstruction abdominal‐donor site closure, where any mesh reinforcement or primary fascial closure was specified, and postoperative outcomes of hernia and/or abdominal bulge were reported. Analysis was performed in Review Manager (RevMan) evaluating mesh use, type, and plane relative to primary fascial closure, using the Mantel–Haenszel method to calculate odds ratios (ORs) of significance level p < .05, and a random effects model to account for inter‐study heterogeneity.

Results

Of the 2791 DIEP patients across 11 studies, 1901 patients underwent primary closure and 890 were repaired with mesh. When hernia and/or bulge were combined into a single complication, the use of any mesh did not significantly reduce its odds compared to primary closure (OR = 0.69, p = .20). Similarly, the use of any mesh did not significantly reduce the odds of bulge alone compared to primary closure (OR = 0.62, p = .43). However, the odds of hernia alone were significantly reduced by 72% with any mesh use (OR = 0.28, p = .03).

Conclusion

Mesh use was significantly associated with decreased odds of hernia alone with DIEP flap surgery, but there was no difference in bulge or combined hernia/bulge rates. As bulge is the more common abdominal morbidity after DIEP flap harvest in a patient with no prior abdominal surgery or risk factor for hernia, mesh use is not indicated in abdominal closure of all DIEP patients. Future prospective studies are warranted to characterize the specific indications for mesh use in the setting of DIEP flap surgery.
Stability of rotating equilibrium states of fluid deformable surfaces
Authors: Nestler Michael , Voigt Axel
Published: September 2023

We consider rotating equilibrium states of fluid deformable surfaces. These states are characterized by a force balance between centrifugal and bending forces, involve surface Killing vector fields and are independent of surface viscosity. Considering a continuum description based on the incompressible surface Navier‐Stokes equations with bending forces and conserved enclosed volume we numerically demonstrate that these rotating equilibrium states can be reached, but also that these states are not stable. Any perturbation in shape or rotating flow field leads to dissipation and destroys the rotating equilibrium states. After breaking symmetry, evolution reaches other rotating states with a lower energy for which the symmetry axis and the rotation axis are not aligned. Such flow fields could be characterized by three‐dimensional Killing vector fields. However, also these states are also not stable. Based on these numerical results we postulate a cascading mechanism of ‘disturbance ‐ force balance reconfiguration ‐ dissipation’ that contains various rotating equilibrium states as transient configurations but eventually leads to the classical equilibrium shapes of the Helfrich energy.
Deep learning for frequency response prediction of a multimass oscillator
Authors: Schultz Julius , van Delden Jan , Blech Christopher , Langer Sabine C. , Lüddecke Timo
Published: September 2023

Noise prevention in product development is becoming more and more important due to health effects and comfort restrictions. In the product development process, costly and time‐consuming simulations are carried out over parameter spaces, for example, via the finite element method, in order to find quiet product designs. The solution of dynamic systems is limited in their maximum frequency and the size of the parameter space. Therefore, the substitution of high‐fidelity models by machine learning approaches is desirable. In this contribution, we consider an academic benchmark: Training a neural network to predict the frequency response of a multimass oscillator. Neural network architectures based on multilayer perceptrons and transformers are investigated and compared with respect to their accuracy in frequency response prediction. Our investigations suggest that the transformer architecture is better suited, in terms of accuracy and in terms of capability to handle multiple system configurations in a single model. The code of this work is available at https://eckerlab.org/code/acoustics_mmo_2023
Simulation of foil bearing supported rotor systems considering tilting motions
Authors: Nitzschke Steffen , Woschke Elmar , Daniel Christian
Published: September 2023

An accurate model of a foil bearing supported rotor needs to cover rotor dynamics of the shaft, structure dynamics of the foil as well as hydro‐ and thermo dynamics in the fluid film. The paper addresses the incorporation of tilting motions of the shaft and its influence on the foil deflection, which in turn results in a more accurate prediction of the stability threshold of the rotor‐bearing system.
Toward the use of a reduced‐order and stochastic turbulence model for assessment of far‐field sound radiation: Low Mach number jet flows
Authors: Medina Méndez Juan A. , Sharma Sparsh , Schmidt Heiko , Klein Marten
Published: September 2023

This work presents a novel framework for the evaluation of far‐field sound radiation, specializing to a low Mach number jet flow. The framework comprises an analytical and a numerical part. In the analytical part, a low Mach number asymptotic analysis is presented to obtain the spectral sources of sound radiation starting from a pressure wave equation that is directly obtained from the Navier–Stokes equations. The derivation procedure is based on the fundamental premise of Lighthill's acoustic analogy. In the numerical part, a reduced‐order model for turbulent flow, the one‐dimensional turbulence model, is used to simulate the velocity field of a low Mach number turbulent round jet, assumed fully developed and statistically steady, hence homogeneous in the azimuthal direction and for a cross‐sectional slab assumed locally homogeneous in axial direction, too. The generated velocity field is used for the calculation of the spectral pressure sources, and consequently, to estimate the far‐field sound pressure level (SPL) of the jet. The results of the analysis are compared against available experimental SPL measurements from a subsonic jet. A reasonable agreement is obtained for the SPL. Furthermore, the analysis sheds light into the different contributions of the subsonic flow to sound radiation. The framework is readily extendable for any kind of low Mach number flow, including variable density flows and jet flames.
The Steller's Sea‐Eagle in North America: An economic assessment of birdwatchers travelling to see a vagrant raptor
Authors: Pease Brent S. , Gilbert Neil A. , Casola William R. , Akamani Kofi
Published: September 2023

Birdwatching—a cultural ecosystem service—is among the most popular outdoor recreational activities. Existing economic valuations of birdwatching typically overlook the economic contributions of birdwatchers travelling to see vagrant (out‐of‐range) birds.

Economic valuations of vagrant birdwatching are few, and to date, no valuation of a large, charismatic vagrant species—or of a recurring individual vagrant bird—has been reported.

During 2020–2022, a vagrant Steller's Sea‐Eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus) was reported in several locations in North America, representing the first record of this species in these locations. In Winter 2020–2021, the eagle spent nearly a month on the eastern seaboard of the United States, and thousands of people travelled to see it.

We conducted an online survey of individuals who travelled to see the eagle to estimate the individual and collective non‐consumptive use value of this vagrant birdwatching event. Using individual travel cost methodology, we estimated an average individual expenditure and, together with estimates of the total number of birdwatchers, we estimated non‐consumptive use value of the vagrant birdwatching event. Finally, we used a willingness to pay framework (via hypothetical donations to view the eagle) to evaluate the non‐consumptive use consumer surplus of the event.

We estimated that, on average, individual birdwatchers spent $180 USD (95% CI = $156–$207) ignoring travel time—or $277 (95% CI = $243–$314) when accounting for travel time—to view the eagle. Furthermore, we estimated between 2115 and 2645 individuals travelled to see the eagle during December 2021 to January 2022. Thus, we estimated that the eagle generated a total expenditure between $380,604 and $476,626, or between $584,373 and $731,809 when accounting for travel time. Finally, based on travellers' willingness to pay, we estimated a non‐consumptive use consumer surplus of the event between $139,036 and $174,114.

Assigning economic value to nature gives policymakers and business leaders footing to advance conservation in decision‐making. Although often overlooked in these decisions, vagrant birds supply ephemeral ecosystem services that might bolster community development efforts, particularly if vagrancy events occur with some predictability (e.g. recurring annually).

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
High‐resolution 3D printing resin reinforced by polyurethane filler particles; physical and mechanical properties
Authors: Ramezanpour Masoud , Pourabbas Behzad
Published: September 2023

In 3D printing technology, unwanted resin properties such as low mechanical, thermal, electrical, and biocompatibility can be enhanced by using proper fillers. In this study, sucrose urethane microparticles, acrylic modified are used to improve the properties of the final object without losing other properties such as printing resolution. Modification is confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy and hydrogen bonding index enhancement after modification of the urethane filler. Filler particles are reduced in sizes by modification followed by ball‐milling as is confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. When the filler content is 2.5 wt%, mechanical tensile and flexural modulus increase compared to the neat resin however, increases the brittleness of the photo‐cured samples. Thermal degradation temperature is lifted up for 2.5–5.0 wt% of the filler loading in the resin. Improved dimensional accuracy and detailed printing in higher resolution, due to the physical effect of the filler particles, can also be achieved in real 3D‐printed object as is explored.

Highlights

High‐resolution 3D printing, by random geometry of filler particles in the resin.

Scattering from polyurethane foam microparticles lead to high‐resolution printing.

Acrylate‐modified polyurethane filler particles provide resin compatibility.

Polyurethane filler leads to higher resolution with enhanced mechanical properties.