bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of looming audio on transcranial magnetic stimulation‐induced phosphene perception
Authors: Seebold Patrick , He Yingchen , Nam Chang S.
Published: June 2024

Looming sounds are known to influence visual function in the brain, even as early as the primary visual cortex. However, despite evidence that looming sounds have a larger impact on cortical excitability than stationary sounds, the influence of varying looming strengths on visual ability remains unclear. Here, we aim to understand how these signals influence low‐level visual function. Fourteen healthy undergraduate students participated. They were blindfolded and received transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to the primary visual cortex following auditory stimulation with different strength looming sounds. Participants reported whether they perceived a phosphene, or an illusory visual percept, following TMS stimulation. We hypothesized that rates of phosphene activity would increase with increasing levels of looming strength. A linear mixed‐effect model showed that phosphene activity was significantly higher at higher strength of looming (F(1, 69) = 5.33, p = .024) and at higher TMS pulse strength (F(1, 18) = 4.71, p = .043). However, there was also a significant interaction between looming strength and pulse strength (F(1, 69) = 4.33, p = .041). At lower levels of TMS strength, phosphene rate increased with looming strength, while at higher levels of TMS strength the effect was reversed. These results suggest a complex relationship between looming strength and cortical activity, potentially reflecting the mixed contribution of total auditory energy and the rate of changes. This work will enhance our ability to predict audiovisual interactions and may help improve auditory warning systems designed to capture visual attention.
A two‐center randomized controlled trial of a repairing mask as an adjunctive treatment for mild to moderate rosacea
Authors: Wang Liwei , Zhang Yiyi , Chen Lihong , Yuan Dengfeng , Feng Xiamei , Zheng Jie , Li Xia , Yuan Chao
Published: June 2024

Objective

To investigate the efficacy and safety of a repairing mask as an adjunctive treatment for skin barrier maintenance of mild to moderate rosacea.

Methods

Patients with rosacea were recruited in this dual center randomized controlled trial from November 2019 to December 2021. A total of 64 patients were included and randomized into two groups at a ratio of 3:1 into a mask group (n = 47) and a control group (n = 17). Patients in the mask group received treatment with Dr. Yu Centella asiatica repairing facial mask three times weekly for a duration of 6 weeks. All participants were instructed to continue their regimen of 50 mg oral minocycline twice daily and to apply Dr. Yu Intensive Hydrating Soft Cream twice daily. The primary endpoint of this study was the Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) score.

Results

A total of 54 patients completed this trial, with 41 in the mask group and 13 in the control group. After using this facial mask for 3 and 6 weeks, the IGA, facial skin dryness, facial flushing, and severity of skin lesion in the mask group showed significantly improvement (p < 0.05). Moreover, the change in the delta degree of skin flushing was significantly higher than that in the control group (p = 0.037). Throughout the study, no adverse events were reported in either group of participants.

Conclusion

The Dr. Yu Centella asiatica repairing facial mask, as an adjunctive treatment of rosacea, appears to effectively repair and protect the skin barrier, alleviate cutaneous symptoms of rosacea, and is both efficacious and safe for patient use.
The Time‐Varying Price of Financial Intermediation in the Mortgage Market
Authors: FUSTER ANDREAS , LO STEPHANIE H. , WILLEN PAUL S.
Published: June 2024

We introduce a new measure of the price charged by financial intermediaries for connecting mortgage borrowers with capital market investors. Based on administrative lender pricing data, we document that the price of intermediation reacts strongly to variation in demand, reflecting capacity constraints of mortgage originators. This positive comovement of price with quantity reduced the pass‐through of quantitative easing. We also find a notable upward trend in this price between 2008 and 2014, likely due to increased legal and regulatory burden in the mortgage market. The trend led to an implicit cost to borrowers of nearly $100 billion over this period.
Brain lesion microstructure in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein disease
Authors: Lapucci Caterina , Boccia Vincenzo Daniele , Clementi Thoma Dario , Schiavi Simona , Benedetti Luana , Uccelli Antonio , Novi Giovanni , Cellerino Maria , Inglese Matilde
Published: June 2024

Background and purpose

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody‐associated disease (MOGAD) diagnosis are based on the presence of serological and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) biomarkers. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), neurites orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI), and the Spherical Mean Technique (SMT) may be helpful to provide a microstructural characterization of the different types of white matter lesions and give an insight about their different pathological mechanisms. The aim of the study was to characterize microstructural differences between brain typical lesions (TLs) and nontypical lesions (nTLs).

Methods

A total of 17 NMOSD and MOGAD patients [9 Aquaporin4 (AQP4) + NMO, 2 seronegative‐NMO, 6 MOGAD] underwent MRI scans on a 3 Tesla MAGNETON PRISMA. Diffusion parameters (fractional anisotropy; mean diffusivity [MD]; intracellular volume fraction [ICVF]; extra‐neurite transverse diffusivity; and extra‐neurite MD; neurite signal fraction) were obtained using DTI, NODDI, and SMT. Microstructural parameters within lesions were compared through a generalized linear model using age, sex, and total lesion volume as covariates.

Results

In NMOSD/MOGAD whole cohort (total lesions = 477), TLs showed increased MD and decreased ICVF compared to nTLs (p < .05), indicating higher inflammation and axonal loss. Similar results were found also in the AQP4 + NMO subgroup (decreased ICVF, p < .05). Furthermore, in NMOSD/MOGAD whole cohort and in AQP4 + NMO subgroup, TLs showed a trend toward higher EXRATRANS than nTLs, suggesting a more severe degree of demyelination within TLs.

Conclusions

TLs and nTLs in NMOSD/MOGAD showed different diffusion MRI‐derived microstructural features, with TLs showing a more severe degree of inflammation and fiber disruption with respect to nTLs.
Acute hyperbilirubinemia determines an early subclinical renal damage: Evaluation of tubular biomarkers in cholemic nephropathy
Authors: Scilletta Sabrina , Leggio Stefano , Di Marco Maurizio , Miano Nicoletta , Musmeci Marco , Marrano Nicola , Natalicchio Annalisa , Giorgino Francesco , Bosco Giosiana , Di Giacomo Barbagallo Francesco , Scamporrino Alessandra , Di Mauro Stefania , Filippello Agnese , Scicali Roberto , Russello Maurizio , Spadaro Luisa , Purrello Francesco , Piro Salvatore , Di Pino Antonino
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

Cholemic nephropathy is a cause of acute kidney injury occurring in patients with jaundice. The aim of this study was to evaluate early renal function impairment in patients with mild acute hyperbilirubinemia in the absence of alterations of the common parameters used in clinical practice (serum creatinine or urea) and with normal renal morphology. We studied urinary biomarkers of tubular damage urinary neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (u‐NGAL), urinary beta‐2‐microglobulin (u‐B2M), urinary osteopontin (u‐OPN), urinary trefoil factor 3 (u‐TFF3) and urinary Cystatin C (u‐Cys).

Methods

This is a case‐control study investigating the following urinary biomarkers of tubular damage: u‐NGAL, u‐B2M, u‐OPN, u‐TFF3 and u‐Cys, in patients with mild acute hyperbilirubinemia. Seventy‐four patients were included in this study: 36 patients with jaundice and 38 patients without jaundice.

Results

Subjects with jaundice (total bilirubin 12.4 ± 7.3 mg/dL) showed higher u‐NGAL, u‐B2M, u‐OPN, u‐TFF3 and u‐Cys compared with controls. After logistic regression analyses, including the following independent variables: age, estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR), haemoglobin, diabetes, hypertension and jaundice, we observed a higher risk of elevated u‐NGAL values (OR = 3.8, 95% CI 1.07–13.5, p = .03) and u‐B2M (OR = 9.4, 95% CI 2.3–38.9, p = .0018) in jaundiced subjects. Moreover, urinary biomarkers had a direct correlation with serum cholestasis indexes.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated increased urinary biomarkers of tubular damage (u‐NGAL, u‐B2M, u‐OPN, u‐TFF3, and u‐Cys) in patients with mild hyperbilirubinemia in comparison with a control group. These findings suggest early renal tubular damage in the absence of alterations of the normal parameters used in clinical practice (eGFR, serum urea and renal morphology).
City divided: Unveiling family ties and genetic structuring of coyotes in Seattle
Authors: Kreling Samantha E. S. , Reese Ellen M. , Cavalluzzi Olivia M. , Bozzi Natalee B. , Messinger Riley , Schell Christopher J. , Long Robert A. , Prugh Laura R.
Published: June 2024

Linear barriers pose significant challenges for wildlife gene flow, impacting species persistence, adaptation, and evolution. While numerous studies have examined the effects of linear barriers (e.g., fences and roadways) on partitioning urban and non‐urban areas, understanding their influence on gene flow within cities remains limited. Here, we investigated the impact of linear barriers on coyote (Canis latrans) population structure in Seattle, Washington, where major barriers (i.e., interstate highways and bodies of water) divide the city into distinct quadrants. Just under 1000 scats were collected to obtain genetic data between January 2021 and December 2022, allowing us to identify 73 individual coyotes. Notably, private allele analysis underscored limited interbreeding among quadrants. When comparing one quadrant to each other, there were up to 16 private alleles within a single quadrant, representing nearly 22% of the population allelic diversity. Our analysis revealed weak isolation by distance, and despite being a highly mobile species, genetic structuring was apparent between quadrants even with extremely short geographic distance between individual coyotes, implying that Interstate 5 and the Ship Canal act as major barriers. This study uses coyotes as a model species for understanding urban gene flow and its consequences in cities, a crucial component for bolstering conservation of rarer species and developing wildlife friendly cities.
NLRP3 promotes radiation‐induced brain injury by regulating microglial pyroptosis
Authors: Zhang Wan , Wu Qiheng , Zhang Xiaonan , Qin Yue , Gao Lianxuan , Hu Shushu , Du Shasha , Ren Chen
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Radiation‐induced brain injury, one of the side effects of cranial radiotherapy in tumour patients, usually results in durable and serious cognitive disorders. Microglia are important innate immune‐effector cells in the central nervous system. However, the interaction between microglia and neurons in radiation‐induced brain injury remains uncharacterised.

Methods and Materials

We established a microglia–neuron indirect co‐culture model to assess the interaction between them. Microglia exposed to radiation were examined for pyroptosis using lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, Annexin V/PI staining, SYTOX staining and western blot. The role of nucleotide‐binding oligomerisation domain‐like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) was investigated in microglia exposed to radiation and in mouse radiation brain injury model through siRNA or inhibitor. Mini‐mental state examination and cytokines in blood were performed in 23 patients who had experienced cranial irradiation.

Results

Microglia exerted neurotoxic features after radiation in the co‐culture model. NLRP3 was up‐regulated in microglia exposed to radiation, and then caspase‐1 was activated. Thus, the gasdermin D protein was cleaved, and it triggered pyroptosis in microglia, which released inflammatory cytokines. Meanwhile, treatment with siRNA NLRP3 in vitro and NLRP3 inhibitor in vivo attenuated the damaged neuron cell and cognitive impairment, respectively. What is more, we found that the patients after radiation with higher IL‐6 were observed to have a decreased MMSE score.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that radiation‐induced pyroptosis in microglia may promote radiation‐induced brain injury via the secretion of neurotoxic cytokines. NLRP3 was evaluated as an important mediator in radiation‐induced pyroptosis and a promising therapeutic target for radiation‐induced brain injury.
A practical approach to ineffective esophageal motility
Authors: Kamboj Amrit K. , Katzka David A. , Vela Marcelo F. , Yadlapati Rena , Ravi Karthik
Published: June 2024

Background and Purpose

Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) is the most frequently diagnosed esophageal motility abnormality and characterized by diminished esophageal peristaltic vigor and frequent weak, absent, and/or fragmented peristalsis on high‐resolution esophageal manometry. Despite its commonplace occurrence, this condition can often provoke uncertainty for both patients and clinicians. Although the diagnostic criteria used to define this condition has generally become more stringent over time, it is unclear whether the updated criteria result in a more precise clinical diagnosis. While IEM is often implicated with symptoms of dysphagia and gastroesophageal reflux disease, the strength of these associations remains unclear. In this review, we share a practical approach to IEM highlighting its definition and evolution over time, commonly associated clinical symptoms, and important management and treatment considerations. We also share the significance of this condition in patients undergoing evaluation for anti‐reflux surgery and consideration for lung transplantation.
Temporal variation of soil microarthropods in different forest types and regions of central Europe
Authors: Junggebauer André , Bluhm Christian , Erdmann Georgia , Bluhm Sarah L. , Pollierer Melanie M. , Scheu Stefan
Published: June 2024

Biodiversity and biomass of aboveground arthropods in central European forests continuously declined during the last decade. However, whether belowground microarthropod communities follow similar patterns has not been investigated. In this study, we compared the abundance, diversity, community composition, stability and asynchrony of oribatid mites (Acari: Oribatida) sampled in four forest types of increasing management intensity (unmanaged beech, old managed beech, young managed beech, and coniferous) at three‐year intervals from 2008 to 2020. Forest sites were replicated in three regions in southern, central and northern Germany, i.e. the Swabian Alb, Hainich‐Dün and the Schorfheide Chorin, which differ in soil characteristics and climate. We found 25 152 individuals and 121 species of oribatid mites and detected no linear decline in abundance and diversity over the last decade, suggesting that microarthropods in forest soils are buffered against land‐use effects. However, we observed that years with low winter precipitation in regions with soils that are prone to drought, resulted in significant decreases in oribatid mite densities. Community compositions remained similar across sampling years, but differed between regions and forest types, predominantly due to differences in the proportion of asexual individuals. The stability of oribatid mite communities did not decrease in managed forests and was highest in deep soils with high water‐holding capacity, which may reduce temporal variation, suggesting that soil properties are more important for the stability of oribatid mite communities than forest management. However, stability patterns were not explained by asynchrony in species fluctuations, as all communities either showed a high degree of synchrony or were not different from random. Our study highlights that the temporal dynamics of belowground communities may differ from those aboveground, and that regional differences in precipitation and soil properties are more important than forest types.
The improvement of soil properties in rice cropping systems using an integrated fertilization method to increase rice yield
Authors: Zhu Wenbin , Yin Bin , Su Lianghu , Liu Chenwei , Zhang Longjiang , Wang Lei
Published: June 2024

The global food crisis provides an impetus for agricultural green transformation via optimized fertilization methods. While organic substitution, green manure incorporation, and targeted fertilization sites have individually shown promise in enhancing rice yield, there is still a gap between optimized fertilization methods and achieving sustainable rice production. To explore the factors influencing rice yield across different fertilization strategies, we conducted a field experiment in Southern China encompassing five treatments, such as CK (no N input), RN (broadcasting urea with recommended N rates), RON (broadcasting organic–inorganic fertilizer with recommended N rates), RONS (side‐deep placement of organic–inorganic fertilizer with recommended N rates), and RONSA (coupled RONS with Azolla [Azolla pinnata R. Brown]). Using a Minimum Data Set approach, we identified the primary variables influencing soil properties and rice production, with a focus on soil physicochemical characteristics and bacterial communities. Further, the soil properties index (SPI), calculated by multiplying the linear score with the weight of each variable, served as an indicator of soil properties variations. Our findings revealed that RONSA significantly increased the SPI by 21.1% compared with RN, predominantly because of higher soil labile organic carbon (LOC) and available N (SAN) fractions (p < .05). N uptake in rice plants (23.9%–28.4%) increased dramatically under RONSA leading to higher rice yield (11.0%–16.9%) and NUE (30.2%–36.1%) than RN (p < .05). The enhancement in soil properties, characterized by increased LOC, SAN fractions, and bacterial community diversity, was essential in boosting rice yields, with dissolved inorganic N emerging as the dominant contributor. In summary, our results highlight the effectiveness of integrated fertilization approaches in enhancing soil properties, subsequently leading to improved rice yields and NUE. This fertilizer strategy holds promise for guiding field fertilization practices and advancing sustainable rice production.
Effects of ecological intensification of agriculture on soil fertility and carbon and nitrogen stocks: An 8‐year study in southern Brazil
Authors: Valenciano Murilo Nunes , Barth Gabriel , Soares Johnny Rodrigues , Francisco Eros Artur Bohac , Prochnow Luis Ignacio , Otto Rafael
Published: June 2024

Ecological intensification (EI) of agriculture aims to optimize soil conservation, crop diversity and nutrient management. Despite growing interest in EI, its impact on soil properties, compared with conventional farming practice (FP), remains poorly understood as a result of limited field evidence. This study, conducted over eight seasons in southern Brazil as part of the ‘Global Maize Project’ of the International Plant Nutrition Institute, evaluated EI compared with FP, and FP with silage (FPS) using a split‐plot design. Four nitrogen application rates (0, 70, 140 and 210 kg ha−1) were applied to subplots with four replicates. Soil properties were measured to a depth of 1 m. The trial systems consisted of a maize–soybean rotation under no‐till during summer and cover crops and fertilizer application during winter. In the FP system, black oats and wheat were cultivated, while FPS utilized white oats and ryegrass. In the EI system, peas (without N application) and wheat were cultivated. In the 4‐years preceding the trial, the area was cultivated in a no‐till system with maize–soybean during summer and black oat–wheat in winter. Our results reveal distinct differences in soil properties among the systems, with FPS demonstrating greater soil acidity (pH of 4.4 at 0–5 cm) caused by higher N application than FP and EI systems. The lower soil pH altered soil nutrient dynamics, with decreased available Ca, Mg and K and increased Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn. Furthermore, nutrient availability varied, with EI having more inorganic N and DON at 0–40 cm compared with FP, but less in deeper soil (40–100 cm). Notably, EI system had more soil carbon (175 Mg ha−1) compared with FP (161 Mg ha−1), a relative annual increase of 1.8 Mg ha−1 year−1 over 8 years. These findings underscore the potential of EI to promote soil carbon, thereby contributing to climate change mitigation and soil health improvement.
Use of near‐infrared fluorescence angiography with indocyanine green to evaluate direct cutaneous arteries used for canine axial pattern flaps
Authors: Eiger Sophie N. , Bertran Judit , Reynolds Penny S. , Regier Penny , Case J. Brad , Ham Kathleen , Mison Michael , Fox‐Alvarez W. Alexander
Published: June 2024

Objective

To describe the use of near‐infrared angiography (NIRFA) to identify the vascularization of three canine axial pattern flaps (APFs) omocervical (OMO), thoracodorsal (THO), and caudal superficial epigastric (CSE); to establish a vascular fluorescence pattern (VFP) grading system; and to evaluate the effect of NIRFA on surgeon flap dimension planning compared to traditional landmark palpation (LP) and visualization assessments.

Study design

Experimental study.

Animals

A total of 15 healthy, client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Dogs were sedated and flap sites were clipped. LP‐based margins were drawn and preinjection images were recorded. Indocyanine green (ICG) was administered and VFP images were recorded. VFP scores were determined by five surgeons. Margin alterations were performed based on NIRFA‐ICG images. Altered measurements were compared between LP and NIRFA‐ICG images.

Results

Vascularization of the CSE flap was most visible with NIRFA with VFP scores 4/4 for 13/15 dogs. Intersurgeon agreement for VFP grades was poorest for THO (ICC = 0.35) and intermediate for OMO (ICC = 0.49) flaps. Surgeons were more likely to adjust dimensions for CSE flaps relative to OMO (OR 17.3, 95% CI: 6.2, 47.8) or THO (25.5; 8.6, 75.7).

Conclusion

Using a grading system, we demonstrated that the CSE flap was most visible. Surgeons were more likely to adjust the LP‐CSE flap margins based on fluorescence patterns and were more likely to rely on LP when visualization scores were low.

Clinical significance

NIRFA has possible applications identifying some direct cutaneous arteries of APFs and their associated angiosomes in real‐time. Further investigation is indicated to study NIRFA's potential to improve patient specific APF planning.
Quality indicators to monitor the quality and safety of care for older people: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Lathlean Timothy J.H. , Inacio Maria C. , Westbrook Johanna , Gray Len , Braithwaite Jeffrey , Hibbert Peter , Comans Tracy , Crotty Maria , Wesselingh Steve , Sluggett Janet K. , Ward Stephanie , Wabe Nasir , Caughey Gillian E.
Published: June 2024

Objective:

The objective of this review is to identify quality indicators used to monitor the quality and safety of care provided to older people (≥ 65 years old) in 8 care settings: primary care; hospital/acute care; aged care (including residential aged care and home or community care); palliative care; rehabilitation care; care transitions; dementia care; and care in rural areas.

Introduction:

There is a need for high-quality, holistic, person-centered care for older people. Older people receive care across multiple care settings, and population-level monitoring of quality and safety of care across settings represents a significant challenge.

Inclusion criteria:

National and international quality indicators used to monitor and evaluate the quality and safety of care at the population level for older individuals in the 8 key care settings will be considered for inclusion. English-language quantitative and mixed method studies published from 2012 will be considered.

Methods:

Academic (MEDLINE, Embase) and gray (government websites, clinical guidelines, Google) literature searches will be conducted. A standardized data extraction tool will be used to describe the identified quality indicators and associated tools. Quality indicators will be categorized by key domains (ie, pain, function, consumer experience, service delivery); quality indicator type (structure, process, outcome); and the Institute of Medicine’s 6 dimensions of care quality (eg, efficiency, effectiveness, appropriateness, accessibility, acceptability/person-centered, safety). The scoping review will be conducted in accordance with the JBI methodology for scoping reviews and will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR).

Review registration:

Open Science Framework https://osf.io/8czun
Heat Pumps Go Maine-Stream
Authors: Nemo Leslie
Published: June 2024

As part of a comprehensive effort to reduce carbon emissions, Maine officials announced a plan in 2019 to install 100,000 heat pumps across the state by 2025. They achieved this goal two years ahead of schedule in July 2023. For an electric heating technology that historically was only appropriate for warmer climates, the state’s success is encouraging.Government officials look on build on that success and other states are looking to the program as a model.
Will We Eever Hail a Flying Taxi?
Authors: Sukel Kayt
Published: June 2024

The aviation industry has teased the development of a new type of affordable, sustainable aircraft, advanced air mobility (AAM) flyers, to help reduce passenger congestion and to open up the urban commuting landscape to more rural areas. Often called “air taxis,” eVTOL aircraft have the potential to not only replace traditional carbon-emitting short-range flights but could also help ferry commuters across busy metropolitan areas. Despite some progress in making air taxis a reality, there remain some nagging questions that must be answered. The biggest of which is whether flying taxis will solve real problems for real people or if they are more akin to the cryptocurrency of aviation.
Fast and Reliable History Matching of Channel Reservoirs Using Initial Models Selected by Streamline and Deep Learning
Authors: Kim Doeon , King Michael , Jo Honggeun , Choe Jonggeun
Published: June 2024

Ensemble-based methods involve using multiple models for model calibration to correct initial models based on observed data. The assimilated ensemble models allow probabilistic analysis of future production behaviors. It is crucial to use good initial models to obtain reliable history matching and prediction of both oil and water productions especially for channel reservoirs having high uncertainty and heterogeneity. In this study, we propose a fast and reliable history matching method by selecting good initial models using streamline and deep learning. The proposed method is applied to two cases of 3D channel reservoir generated by sgems and generative adversarial network (GAN). The proposed method offers predictions with accuracy improvement more than 20% for oil and 10% for water productions compared with two other model selection methods. It also reduces the overall simulation time by 75% compared to the method of using all initial models.
Friction and Wear of Ni Alloy-Ag-Ni Doped hBN Self-Lubricating Composites From Room Temperature to 800 °C
Authors: Gupta Smita , Tyagi Rajnesh , Pandey Anchal , Jain P. K. , Khatri O. P.
Published: June 2024

The current investigation explores the potential of Ni-doped hBN (hBN-O-Ni) as a solid lubricant in conjunction with Ag in improving the tribological performance of Ni alloy-Ag-hBN composites containing a fixed amount of silver (10 wt%) and different amounts (2, 4, 6, and 8 wt%) of hBN from room temperature to 800 °C by carrying out tests under a fixed load of 5 N and speed of 0.5 m/s using a ball-on-disk tribometer. The study also intends to determine the occurrence of any synergistic action between Ag and a hybrid nanomaterial (Ni-doped hBN) in achieving low friction and low wear properties over an extended range of temperatures. The results indicate that the composite having 4 wt% hBN exhibited the lowest wear-rate among all the materials, whereas the composite having 8 wt% hBN displayed the lowest coefficient of friction at all the temperatures under the condition of load and sliding speed used in the present study. The composite having 8 wt% hBN attained the lowest coefficient of friction (∼0.18) at 800 °C due to synergistic action between silver molybdates and hBN. At low temperatures, Ag and hBN provided lubrication, whereas at high temperatures lubricious oxides (NiO, NiMoO4, and MoO3), silver molybdates (Ag2MoO4, Ag2Mo2O7), and hBN contributed to lowering the coefficient of friction as well as wear-rate.
Effect of Entrainment Sliding Direction to the Traction Coefficient for Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication Elliptical Contacts in the Linear Isothermal Region
Authors: Higashitani Yuko , Kawabata Sanemasa , Björling Marcus , Almqvist Andreas
Published: June 2024

In many mechanical systems, elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) is apparent in the interfaces between rolling/sliding parts. Even at small slide-to-roll ratios, detailed knowledge about the oil film thickness and the traction exerted by the highly pressurized lubricant is crucial for the efficiency and reliability of such systems. In this study, we explore the impact of surface velocity direction and contact ellipticity on traction characteristics within EHL through numerical simulations using an elliptical EHL contact solver based on a fully coupled finite element approach. We present a novel master curve that correlates the traction coefficient slope with the lubricant entrainment direction and ellipticity, for elliptical EHL contacts in the piezoviscous elastic (PE) regime. We demonstrate that the master curve shows a maximum relative difference of less than 3.2% to the numerical simulation results, proving its efficacy. This curve is particularly beneficial for multibody-dynamics models, providing a reliable tool for predicting frictional forces in systems where elliptical EHL contacts, operating within the PE regime at low SRR, are prevalent.
Point Contact Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication and Wear in Intermittent Motion
Authors: Zhang Mingyu , Wang Xinqing , Han Yiming , Wang Jing , Venner C. H.
Published: June 2024

Intermittent motion is a complex process that involves constant speed, deceleration, static stages, and acceleration. Theoretical analysis suggests that shortening the period of intermittent motion can increase the film thickness during static stages, thereby extending the life of the part. Currently, an increasing number of studies are focusing on small oscillatory movements or vibrations. However, the impact of intermittent motion cycles on the film thickness and wear in the contact area still needs to be investigated. Optical interference and acoustic emission (AE) were employed as experimental methods to investigate simple sliding point contact intermittent motion. The lubrication state transition of full film-starvation-wear in the contact area was observed and the experimental results confirmed the correctness of the elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) theoretical analysis. Additionally, the regularity of starvation and AE signal change with time during intermittent motion were summarized. An in-depth analysis of the reasons why intermittent motion with a short period generates less wear was performed. This analysis provides novel ideas to reduce wear of intermittent motion mechanisms. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of the wear during intermittent motion and provides essential insights for wear reduction in this area.
Numerical Study of Pressure Response to Action Potential by Water Permeation With Ion Transports
Authors: Matsuyama Haruhi , Fujii Takehiro , Miyauchi Suguru , Takeuchi Shintaro
Published: June 2024

While the permeation mechanism of solute (e.g., ions and glucose) through biological membrane has been studied extensively, the mechanical role of water transport in intracellular phenomena has not received much attention. In the present study, to investigate the effect of water permeation on the intracellular pressure response, a novel permeation flux model through a biological membrane is developed by incorporating the coupling permeabilities (between water and ion fluxes) as the water–ion interaction in the ion channels. The proposed model is applied to a two–dimensional permeation problem of water and ions in a closed cell separated by a thin membrane. The permeation flux model reproduces the typical time response of intracellular pressure to action potentials with reasonable agreement with experimental results in the literature, indicating that the pressure response can be characterized by the following three parameters: water permeability, the mass ratio of water and ion, and the ratio of the permeation fluxes of water and ion. In particular, the permeation flux ratio plays an essential role in intracellular phenomena; depending on the value of the permeation flux ratio, the time lag between the action potential and the pressure response is 0.1 times smaller than that expected by the previous researchers, indicating that water transport associated with ions may trigger a pressure response. This study demonstrates the importance of water permeation in intracellular mechanical response through coupling of the fluid motion and electric fields.
Application of C(t)-Integral Solutions in Extending ASME BPVC Section XI Division 2 Code Case N-934 for Transient Creep Crack Growth
Authors: Petkov Markian , Messner Mark
Published: June 2024

Creep crack growth is a phenomenon which arises in damaged metallic structures under combined primary and secondary loads in the creep regime. The High Temperature Flaw Evaluation Code Committee of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC) is evaluating methods in extending Code Case N-934 to capture transient creep crack growth. This paper provides context and basic examples on the selected approach to transient creep crack growth methods based on the C(t)-integral. The basis for selected C(t)-integral solution as analytical method is established, including an overview of its derivation. Practical assessments of a crack growing under creep conditions in a realistic component are conducted to illustrate the analytical approach. Additional considerations in the application of the analytical methods and limitations are discussed.
Studies of electrical resistivity and magnetic properties of CuFe and CuNiFe films prepared by magnetron sputtering
Authors: Shahzad Muhammad Saqib , Wang Xiao , Hu Yinglin , Li Xiaona , Jiang Qiao , Li Min , Li ZhuMin , Liu Renwei , Zheng Rui , Dong Chuang
Published: June 2024

The Cu-Fe binary alloys exhibit severe elemental segregation, resulting in an inhomogeneous microstructure, which leads to differences in microregion magnetic properties, thus affecting their application. Employing magnetron sputtering to produce films is advantageous for achieving a consistent dispersion of Fe within the Cu matrix. Furthermore, the addition of Ni will result in a more uniform distribution of Fe and facilitate the formation of the ferromagnetic Ni3Fe phase. In this study, Cu100−xFex and Cu100−x(Ni3/4Fe1/4)x series films were prepared by magnetron sputtering technique. The magnetic properties of films are closely related to their ferromagnetic element content. An increase in the content of ferromagnetic elements leads to an improvement in the saturation magnetization (MS) strength and a decrease in the coercivity (HC). The formation of Fe-Fe pairs is more favorable for magnetic properties compared to Ni-Fe pairs. Meanwhile, by comparing with bulk alloys, the distribution of the magnetic elements severely affects the magnetic properties. Moreover, the resistivity of Cu100−xFex films (20.3–96.7 μΩ cm) is much higher than that of Cu100−x(Ni3/4Fe1/4)x films (15.6–60.6 μΩ cm), which depends on the magnetic properties. This study systematically analyzes the effect of the content and distribution of magnetic elements on magnetic and electrical properties.
Differential effects of mass-loading the eardrum and stiffening the middle ear on wideband absorbance
Authors: Lewis James D. , Rutherford Alicia , Stanford Kathleen E.
Published: June 2024

The current work investigated the effects of mass-loading the eardrum on wideband absorbance in humans. A non-invasive approach to mass-loading the eardrum was utilized in which water was placed on the eardrum via ear canal access. The mass-loaded absorbance was compared to absorbance measured for two alternative middle ear states: normal and stiffened. To stiffen the ear, subjects pressurized the middle ear through either exsufflation or insufflation concurrent with Eustachian tube opening. Mass-loading the eardrum was hypothesized to reduce high-frequency absorbance, whereas pressurizing the middle ear was hypothesized to reduce low- to mid-frequency absorbance. Discriminant linear analysis classification was performed to evaluate the utility of absorbance in differentiating between conditions. Water on the eardrum reduced absorbance over the 0.7- to 6-kHz frequency range and increased absorbance at frequencies below approximately 0.5 kHz; these changes approximated the pattern of changes reported in both hearing thresholds and stapes motion upon mass-loading the eardrum. Pressurizing the middle ear reduced the absorbance over the 0.125- to 4-kHz frequency range. Several classification models based on the absorbance in two- or three-frequency bands had accuracy exceeding 88%.
The N-terminus of the
Aspergillus fumigatus
group III hybrid histidine kinase TcsC is essential for its physiological activity and targets the protein to the nucleus
Authors: Vincek Anna , Wolf Anja , Thomas Astrid , Ebel Frank , Schruefer Sebastian
Published: June 2024

Group III hybrid histidine kinases are fungal-specific proteins and part of the multistep phosphorelay, representing the initial part of the high osmolarity glycerol (HOG) pathway. TcsC, the corresponding kinase in
Aspergillus fumigatus,
was expected to be a cytosolic protein but is targeted to the nucleus. Activation of TcsC by the antifungal fludioxonil has lethal consequences for the fungus. The agent triggers a fast and TcsC-dependent activation of SakA and later on a redistribution of TcsC to the cytoplasm. High osmolarity also activates TcsC, which then exits the nucleus or concentrates in spot-like, intra-nuclear structures. The sequence corresponding to the N-terminal 208 amino acids of TcsC lacks detectable domains. Its loss renders TcsC cytosolic and non-responsive to hyperosmotic stress, but it has no impact on the antifungal activity of fludioxonil. A point mutation in one of the three putative nuclear localization sequences, which are present in the N-terminus, prevents the nuclear localization of TcsC, but not its ability to respond to hyperosmotic stress. Hence, this striking intracellular localization is no prerequisite for the role of TcsC in the adaptive response to hyperosmotic stress, instead, TcsC proteins that are present in the nuclei seem to modulate the cell wall composition of hyphae, which takes place in the absence of stress. The results of the present study underline that the spatiotemporal dynamics of the individual components of the multistep phosphorelay is a crucial feature of this unique signaling hub.

IMPORTANCE

Signaling pathways enable pathogens, such as
Aspergillus fumigatus
, to respond to a changing environment. The TcsC protein is the major sensor of the high osmolarity glycerol (HOG) pathway of
A. fumigatus
and it is also the target of certain antifungals. Insights in its function are therefore relevant for the pathogenicity and new therapeutic treatment options. TcsC was expected to be cytoplasmic, but we detected it in the nucleus and showed that it translocates to the cytoplasm upon activation. We have identified the motif that guides TcsC to the nucleus. An exchange of a single amino acid in this motif prevents a nuclear localization, but this nuclear targeting is no prerequisite for the TcsC-mediated stress response. Loss of the N-terminal 208 amino acids prevents the nuclear localization and renders TcsC unable to respond to hyperosmotic stress demonstrating that this part of the protein is of crucial importance.
Draft genome assembly of
Lactobacillus johnsonii
UMB3423 from a voided urine sample
Authors: Stegman Natalie , Steiling Maria , Jackson Briana , Sedano Cerena , Putonti Catherine
Published: June 2024

While the urogenital microbiota of asymptomatic females is often dominated by species of
Lactobacillus
,
Lactobacillus johnsonii
is not a common member. It is more frequently found in the gastrointestinal tract. Here, we present the draft genome sequence of
L. johnsonii
UMB3423, which was isolated from a voided urine sample.
Cleaner anaerobic fermentation and greenhouse gas reduction of crop straw
Authors: Du Zhumei , Nakagawa Andressa , Fang Jiachen , Ridwan Roni , Astuti Wulansih D. , Sarwono Ki A. , Sofyan Ahmad , Widyastuti Yantyati , Cai Yimin
Published: June 2024

Rice anaerobic fermentation is a significant source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and in order to efficiently utilize crop residue resources to reduce GHG emissions, rice straw anaerobic fermentation was regulated using lactic acid bacteria (LAB) inoculants (FG1 and TH14), grass medium (GM) to culture LAB, and
Acremonim cellulolyticus
(AC). Microbial community, GHG emission, dry matter (DM) loss, and anaerobic fermentation were analyzed using PacBio single-molecule real-time and anaerobic fermentation system. The epiphytic microbial diversity of fresh rice straw was extremely rich and contained certain nutrients and minerals. During ensiling, large amounts of GHG such as carbon dioxide are produced due to plant respiration, enzymatic hydrolysis reactions, and proliferation of aerobic bacteria, resulting in energy and DM loss. Addition of FG1, TH14, and AC alone improved anaerobic fermentation by decreasing pH and ammonia nitrogen content (
P
< 0.05) and increased lactic acid content (
P
< 0.05) when compared to the control, and GM showed the same additive effect as LAB inoculants. Microbial additives formed a co-occurrence microbial network system dominated by LAB, enhanced the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, diversified the microbial metabolic environment and carbohydrate metabolic pathways, weakened the amino acid metabolic pathways, and made the anaerobic fermentation cleaner. This study is of great significance for the effective utilization of crop straw resources, the promotion of sustainable livestock production, and the reduction of GHG emissions.

IMPORTANCE

To effectively utilize crop by-product resources, we applied microbial additives to silage fermentation of fresh rice straw. Fresh rice straw is extremely rich in microbial diversity, which was significantly reduced after silage fermentation, and its nutrients were well preserved. Silage fermentation was improved by microbial additives, where the combination of cellulase and lactic acid bacteria acted as enzyme-bacteria synergists to promote lactic acid fermentation and inhibit the proliferation of harmful bacteria, such as protein degradation and gas production, thereby reducing GHG emissions and DM losses. The microbial additives accelerated the formation of a symbiotic microbial network system dominated by lactic acid bacteria, which regulated silage fermentation and improved microbial metabolic pathways for carbohydrates and amino acids, as well as biosynthesis of secondary metabolites.
Supplemental Material: Shallow ocean deoxygenation drove trilobite turnover during the late Cambrian SPICE event
Authors: Yang Aihua , al. et
Published: June 2024

 Detailed description of geological background, methods, and discussion of alternative potential mechanisms; Figures S1–S12; and Tables S1–S2.  
Optical Spin Initialization of Nitrogen Vacancy Centers in a 28Si-Enriched 6H-SiC Crystal for Quantum Technologies
Authors: Murzakhanov F. F. , Sadovnikova M. A. , Mamin G. V. , Shurtakova D. V. , Mokhov E. N. , Kazarova O. P. , Gafurov M. R.
Published: June 2024

High-spin defect centers in crystal matrices are used in quantum computing technologies, highly sensitive sensors, and single-photon sources. In this work, optically active nitrogen-vacancy color centers NV– in a 28Si-enriched (nuclear spin $$I = 0$$) 6H-28SiC crystal have been studied using the photoinduced ($$\lambda $$ = 980 nm) high-frequency (94 GHz, 3.4 T) pulsed electron paramagnetic resonance method at a temperature of $$T = 150{\kern 1pt} $$ K. Three structurally nonequivalent types of NV– centers with axial symmetry have been identified and their spectroscopic parameters have been determined. Long spin–lattice, $${{T}_{1}} = 1.3{\kern 1pt} $$ ms, and spin–spin, $${{T}_{2}} = 59{\kern 1pt} $$ μs, ensemble relaxation times of NV– centers with extremely narrow (450 kHz) absorption lines allow highly selective excitation of resonant transitions between sublevels $$({{m}_{I}})$$ caused by the weak hyperfine interaction $$(A \approx 1{\kern 1pt} $$ MHz) with 14N $$(I = 1)$$ nuclei for the quantum manipulation of the electron spin magnetization.
Acute severe ulcerative colitis trials: the past, the present and the future
Authors: Honap Sailish , Jairath Vipul , Sands Bruce E , Dulai Parambir S , Danese Silvio , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent
Published: June 2024

Acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC), characterised by bloody diarrhoea and systemic inflammation, is associated with a significant risk of colectomy and a small risk of mortality. The landmark trial of cortisone in 1955 was pivotal for two reasons: first, for establishing the efficacy of a drug that remains a first-line therapy today and, second, for producing the first set of disease severity criteria and clinical trial endpoints that shaped the subsequent ASUC trial landscape. Trials in the 1990s and at the turn of the millennium established the efficacy of infliximab and ciclosporin, but since then, there has been little progress in drug development for this high-risk population. This systematic review evaluates all interventional randomised controlled trials (RCTs) conducted in patients hospitalised with severe UC. It provides an overview of the efficacy of treatments from past to present and assesses the evolution of trial characteristics with respect to study populations, eligibility criteria and study designs over time. This review details ongoing RCTs in this field and provides a perspective on the challenges for future clinical trial programmes and how these can be overcome to help deliver novel ASUC therapies.
Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis presenting with prominent autonomic dysfunction
Authors: McCullagh Mary , Hughes Sinead , Canning Adam , Napier Seamus , Gillmore Julian , McCarron Mark Owen
Published: June 2024

A 56-year-old man reported 2 years of slowly progressive exertional fatigue, presyncope, paraesthesia, generalised weakness and nocturnal bowel frequency. He had an abnormal Valsalva ratio and significant postural hypotension. Serum N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide and troponin T were elevated. Transthoracic echocardiogram identified thickening of the biventricular walls, interatrial septum and atrioventricular valve leaflets. Global longitudinal strain was reduced with relative apical sparing, suspicious for cardiac amyloidosis. Technetium-99m and 3,3-diphosphono-1,2-propanodicarboxylic acid scintigraphy supported a diagnosis of transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR). However, urinary Bence Jones protein (kappa) was identified despite a normal kappa/lambda light chain ratio and no serum paraprotein. Bone marrow and buccal biopsy provided histological confirmation of amyloid. The bone marrow had no evidence of plasma cell dyscrasia but positive TTR immunohistochemistry. The patient had a T60A genetic mutation for hereditary ATTR. Overlapping cardiac and autonomic symptoms prompt an amyloid workup, which then must distinguish AL amyloid from ATTR pathology.