bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drooling disrupts the brain functional connectivity network in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Huang Ting , Tang Li‐Li , Zhao Jin‐Ying , Shang Song‖an , Chen Yu‐Chen , Tian You‐Yong , Zhang Ying‐Dong
Published: May 2023

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the causal interaction between significant sensorimotor network (SMN) regions and other brain regions in Parkinson's disease patients with drooling (droolers).

Methods

Twenty‐one droolers, 22 PD patients without drooling (non‐droolers), and 22 matched healthy controls underwent 3T‐MRI resting‐state scans. We performed independent component analysis and Granger causality analysis to determine whether significant SMN regions help predict other brain areas. Pearson's correlation was computed between imaging characteristics and clinical characteristics. ROC curves were plotted to assess the diagnostic performance of effective connectivity (EC).

Results

Compared with non‐droolers and healthy controls, droolers showed abnormal EC of the right caudate nucleus (CAU.R) and right postcentral gyrus to extensive brain regions. In droolers, increased EC from the CAU.R to the right middle temporal gyrus was positively correlated with MDS‐UPDRS, MDS‐UPDRS II, NMSS, and HAMD scores; increased EC from the right inferior parietal lobe to CAU.R was positively correlated with MDS‐UPDRS score. ROC curve analysis showed that these abnormal ECs are of great significance in diagnosing drooling in PD.

Conclusion

This study identified that PD patients with drooling have abnormal EC in the cortico‐limbic‐striatal‐cerebellar and cortio‐cortical networks, which could be potential biomarkers for drooling in PD.
Pro‐market institutions and labor market outcomes: A panel‐data analysis of U.S. metropolitan areas
Authors: Arif Imran , Dawson John W.
Published: May 2023

We expand previous U.S. state‐level research on the relationship between pro‐market institutions and labor market outcomes by examining this relationship at the U.S. metropolitan‐area level. Using panel data for 1992–2012 in a fixed‐effects model, we investigate the effect of pro‐market institutions on the unemployment rate, labor force participation rate, employment‐population ratio, and employment growth across 366 U.S. metropolitan areas. The results indicate that pro‐market institutions are associated with a lower unemployment rate, higher employment‐population ratio, and faster employment growth. These results suggest that local‐area policies are important for achieving favorable labor market conditions at the local level.
If ‘money matters’, what about the monetary base?
Authors: Congdon Tim
Published: May 2023

Crucial to the debates on monetarism is the money aggregate relevant to its key propositions, in particular those that relate to the determination of nominal national income and inflation. In his influential work on ‘market monetarism’, Scott Sumner has accorded a privileged position to the monetary base in the key monetarist propositions. This article argues that, on the contrary, in a modern economy the role of cash is so small, as well as so clandestine, that the monetary base does not play any direct role in the determination of national income and inflation.
Host preference and survivorship ofEuschistus herosstrains on cotton and soybean
Authors: Hickmann Frederico , Cordeiro Erick M. Góes , Aurélio Mateus Souza L. , Saldanha Alan Valdir , Corrêa Alberto Soares
Published: May 2023

The Neotropical brown stink bug,Euschistus heros(Fabricius) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is a key pest of soybean,Glycine max(L.) Merrill (Fabaceae), and recently became an economically important pest of cotton,Gossypium hirsutumL. (Malvaceae), in Brazil. This stink bug has two allopatric strains, one prevalent in southern Brazil (SS), and another in the north (NS). The two strains hybridize in central Brazil. Knowledge of host preferences and host suitability of these strains may clarify the contribution of the various gene pools to contemporary adaptive features such as the ability to harm cotton crops. We tested the attraction of theE. herosstrains and reciprocal hybrids – ♀N × ♂S (HNS) and ♀S × ♂N (HSN) – to soybean and cotton leaves and reproductive structures, and evaluated the nymph development and survivorship of the two strains and reciprocal hybrids fed on soybean or cotton. We conducted host‐choice experiments with fourth instars and adult females and evaluated the survival of immatures on soybean and cotton plants under laboratory conditions. The SS strain preferred soybean over cotton. Hybrid and NS strains chose randomly between soybean and cotton plants. All strains developed on soybean, with similar survival rates. On cotton, pure strains did not reach adulthood; however, hybrids developed on cotton but with a survival rate of <1%. Our results showed that the SS strain ofE. heroswas more attracted to soybeans, and NS and hybrid strains had a polyphagous choice behavior, suggesting that current host selection has been mediated by historical and, mainly, contemporary relationships ofE. herosstrains with these hosts.
Improving the digital capacity of schools by using the SELFIE tool for collective reflection
Authors: Kampylis Panagiotis , Sala Arianna
Published: May 2023

Schools play a crucial role in preparing students for a technology‐driven world. Although schools incorporate technology for teaching and learning in promising ways, reviewing their organisational strategies would enhance their digital capacity—namely, the effective integration of technology in teaching and learning practices. This article presents insights for improving schools' digital capacity provided by school leaders, teachers, and students from fourteen European countries, through open‐ended questions on the SELFIE online tool for collective reflection. This article presents the thematic analysis conducted on 5247 excerpts collected through SELFIE questionnaires, referring to participants' perceptions of their schools' digital infrastructure, the usefulness of technology for teaching and learning, and the perceived need to make the most of technology. Findings align with international studies, which confirm that schools' digital infrastructure still needs improving, while teachers need more training on embedding technology in their teaching practices. Findings also reveal differences in school leaders, teachers, and students' viewpoints and experiences on technology use in their schools. Comparing viewpoints and experiences regarding a school's digital capacity by using a comprehensive and structured process of collective reflection, the SELFIE tool is unique within the field and can offer insights to school communities, education policymakers and researchers.
Meta‐analysis of the effects of anti‐migraine therapeutics in the rat trigeminovascular nociception model as a tool for design optimization
Authors: Dolgorukova Antonina , Protsenko Ekaterina , Isaeva Julia , Gagloeva Victoria , Verbitskaya Elena , Berkovich Regina , Sokolov Alexey Y.
Published: May 2023

The main reasons for the low reliability of results from preclinical studies are the lack of prior sample size calculations and poor experimental design. Here, we demonstrate how the tools of meta‐analysis can be implemented to tackle these issues. We conducted a systematic search to identify controlled studies testing established migraine treatments in the electrophysiological model of trigeminovascular nociception (EMTVN). Drug effects on the two outcomes, dural stimulation‐evoked responses and ongoing neuronal activity were analysed separately using a three‐level model with robust variance estimation. According to the meta‐analysis, which included 21 experiments in rats reported in 13 studies, these drugs significantly reduced trigeminovascular nociceptive traffic, affecting both outcomes. Based on the estimated effect sizes and outcome variance, we provide guidance on sample sizes allowing to detect such effects with sufficient power in future experiments. Considering the revealed methodological features that potentially influence the results and the main source of statistical bias of the included studies, we discuss the translational potential of the EMTVN and the steps needed to improve it. We believe that the presented approach can be used for design optimization in research with other animal models and as such deserves further validation.
Active control of stress intensity in the cracked 3D‐printed specimens using shape memory alloy wires
Authors: Ameri Behnam , Taheri‐Behrooz Fathollah
Published: May 2023

Intelligent composite structures are designed to retard crack initiation and growth in a controlled manner using shape memory alloys (SMAs). The crack closure under mixed‐mode I/II conditions in the 3D‐printed specimens reinforced with pre‐strained SMAs is investigated using numerical, analytical, and experimental procedures. The stress intensity factors (SIFs) of the semicircular bending (SCB) samples are theoretically estimated based on the micromechanical model where the wires are entirely perpendicular to the crack planes, and findings are verified with those data obtained using numerical and experimental methods. Stable crack growth, interlayer adhesion, and fracture toughness improvement are obtained in the modified test samples. In terms of strength and fracture toughness, SMA with 1% pre‐strain is introduced as an optimal value in both pure mode I and mixed‐mode I/II conditions.
Impact of body fat accumulation on metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in Japanese male young adults
Authors: Miwa Takao , Francisque Cathelencia , Tajirika Satoko , Hanai Tatsunori , Imamura Nanako , Adachi Miho , Horita Ryo , Menezes Lynette J , Kawaguchi Takumi , Shimizu Masahito , Yamamoto Mayumi
Published: May 2023

Aim

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) are global concerns. The aim of this study was to reveal the relationship between body composition and NAFLD and MAFLD in male young adults.

Methods

We recruited 335 male graduate students from Gifu University who underwent a health checkup in April 2022. The diagnosis of NAFLD and MAFLD was based on health checkup data and ultrasonography. Muscle and fat mass were measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis and demonstrated as skeletal muscle mass index and fat mass index (FMI), respectively. We assessed factors associated with NAFLD and MAFLD using the logistic regression, decision tree, and random forest analyses.

Results

The median age of the participants was 22 years, and 9% were overweight or obese (body mass index ≥25 kg/m2), 8% had MAFLD, and 16% had NAFLD. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, FMI was independently associated with NAFLD (odds ratio [OR], 1.49; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.26–1.75; p < 0.001) and MAFLD (OR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.51–2.46; p < 0.001). The decision tree and random forest analyses revealed that the strongest classifier for NAFLD and MAFLD was FMI. Additional analyses among nonobese individuals also showed the strong relationship between FMI, NAFLD, and MAFLD.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that fat accumulation plays a key role in the development of NAFLD and MAFLD in male young adults, even in nonobese individuals. The results could shed new light on the pathophysiology of NAFLD and MAFLD in young adults.
Functional heterogeneity of human skin‐resident memory T cells in health and disease
Authors: Strobl Johanna , Haniffa Muzlifah
Published: May 2023

The human skin is populated by a diverse pool of memory T cells, which can act rapidly in response to pathogens and cancer antigens. Tissue‐resident memory T cells (TRM) have been implicated in range of allergic, autoimmune and inflammatory skin diseases. Clonal expansion of cells with TRM properties is also known to contribute to cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma. Here, we review the heterogeneous phenotypes, transcriptional programs, and effector functions of skin TRM. We summarize recent studies on TRM formation, longevity, plasticity, and retrograde migration and contextualize the findings to skin TRM and their role in maintaining skin homeostasis and altered functions in skin disease.
Nondestructive characterization of grain boundary Z‐directional lateral surface in ZnO using nanorobot combined with SEM
Authors: Cao Ning , Shen Feiling , Li Hengyu , Xie Shaorong
Published: May 2023

Different from focusing on grain boundary upper surface in plane X–Y, a unique approach of nanorobot‐based nondestructive characterization of grain boundary Z‐directional lateral surface within bulk ZnO ceramic can be creatively developed under scanning electron microscope (SEM). By rolling‐over bulk ZnO, two‐dimensional profiles and grain boundaries in Z‐directional lateral surfaces have been imaged in plane Y–Z and individually electrically characterized nondestructively. Experiments demonstrate that it is feasible to realize nondestructive characterization of grain boundary Z‐directional lateral surface structures and electrical properties using nanorobot combined with SEM. Relative height differences between grain boundaries within Z‐directional lateral surface can characterize the relative position relationships. Z‐directional lateral surface structures can further extend irregular grain boundary lengths in plane Y–Z to interpret surface effects of nonlinear electrical properties. Relative minor electrical reactive effects in grain indicate grain boundary dominate in nonlinear macroscopic electrical properties. Furtherly, it can be advanced to promote a nondestructive characterization of grain boundary.
Motivational dynamics and impact on performances: The case of physicians of university polyclinics in the NHS scenario
Authors: Albanesi Rosa , Gitto Lara
Published: May 2023

Rationale

The principle of inseparability of teaching, academic research and assistance to patients, to which university physicians are subject in carrying out their work, invites reflection, aimed at identifying a combination of the three activities characterised, at the same time, by efficiency and effectiveness.

Aims and Objectives

The present paper illustrates a paradigm based on the balance of intrinsic and extrinsic motivations with the purpose of identifying an efficient solution in the performance of the duties of university doctors.

Methods

The analysis refers to Italy in terms of the main scenario, or, conversely, the achievement of more profit‐related goals.

Results and Conclusion

Depending on the prevailing goal, it is possible to recognise the superiority of the constitutional principles.
Effects of different temperatures and diets on nutritional and bio‐functional components in the juvenile lined seahorse (Hippocampus erectus)
Authors: Liu Xin , Li Xueling , Zhang Dong , Lin Tingting , Li Siping
Published: May 2023

A two‐factorial experiment (temperature with three levels: 23°C, 25.5°C and 28°C; diet with four kinds: live Artemia sp., copepods, live Artemia sp. + copepods and frozen Neomysis awatschensis [FNA]) was carried out to evaluate the effects of different temperatures and diets on biochemistry in the juvenile lined seahorse (Hippocampus erectus) for thirty days. The juveniles (n = 1260, body height: 5.1 ± 0.48 cm, initial wet weight: 0.42 ± 0.14 g) were distributed in 36 experimental aquaria (35 individuals each). Each treatment had 3 replicates. On day 30, the seahorses were vacuum freeze‐dried at −56°C before chemical analysis. Amino acids, fatty acids, Se, Zn, nucleosides, and nucleotides were measured in the present study. The results show that temperature, diet, and their interaction significantly affected all components. The content of amino acids and fatty acids in the juveniles fed FNA at 23°C was the highest. The content of Zn in the juveniles fed FNA at 23°C, and the content of Se fed Artemia sp. + copepod at 25.5°C were the highest, respectively. The content of uracil, adenine, and thymidine in the juveniles at 23°C was significantly lower than those treatments at 25.5°C and 28°C. The levels of uracil, guanine, cytosine, uridine, and guanosine at 28°C were significantly higher than those at 23°C or 25.5°C when fed Artemia sp. + copepod. The juveniles fed Artemia sp. + copepod and Artemia sp. at 28°C has the highest comprehensive scores of nucleoside and nucleotide. In conclusion, FNA is the best feed to improve the content of amino acids, fatty acids, and Zn at 23°C.
All in one: single‐season multi‐clutching in an ephemeral pool‐breeding frog that is otherwise virtually semelparous
Authors: Gould J , Clulow J , Rippon P , Upton R , Clulow S
Published: May 2023

The sandpaper frog,Lechriodus fletcheri, is a temperate anuran that has previously been shown to be virtually semelparous, with adults overwhelmingly reproducing in a single year of life. Yet, this species almost exclusively oviposits in highly ephemeral pools where there is a high chance of total reproductive failure due to hydroperiods often being unpredictable and too short for their offspring to reach metamorphosis. We sought to understand howL. fletchericopes reproductively in such a risky breeding environment in the absence of a classical iteroparous life history. We investigated aspects of reproduction in wild and laboratory‐reared individuals to determine whether females are capable of intra‐seasonal multi‐clutching and/or clutch partitioning, and males of fertilizing multiple clutches. Direct field evidence was obtained that males participated in multiple mating events within season, while indirect evidence of this ability in females was obtained based on laboratory‐held individuals that produced an additional batch of mature oocytes weeks after an initial release of eggs. Our findings suggest that both males and females likely have the capacity to participate in multiple reproductive events within season and, while most adults may not reproduce more than once, that they are abbreviate iteroparous rather than truly semelparous. Our findings provide evidence that short‐lived anurans may exploit alternative bet‐hedging strategies that mimic the fitness benefits of multi‐year iteroparity.
Widespread introgression of MHC genes in Iberian Podarcis lizards
Authors: Gaczorek Tomasz Sebastian , Chechetkin Mateusz , Dudek Katarzyna , Caeiro‐Dias Guilherme , Crochet Pierre‐André , Geniez Philippe , Pinho Catarina , Babik Wiesław
Published: May 2023

Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes are crucial for the adaptive immune response of jawed vertebrates. Their variation, reaching extreme levels, is driven mainly by an arms race between hosts and pathogens. One hypothesised mechanism contributing to MHC polymorphism is adaptive introgression, the exchange of genetic variants between hybridising species favoured by selection, yet its effect on MHC variation is poorly understood. Detection of adaptive MHC introgression, though challenging, may be facilitated by the analysis of species complexes forming multiple hybrid zones. Here, we investigated MHC introgression in six hybrid zones formed by seven species of Podarcis lizards inhabiting the Iberian Peninsula. To differentiate adaptive introgression from neutral introgression, we compared the patterns of gene exchange in MHC and genome‐wide markers. We found elevated sharing of MHC alleles in the proximity of contact beyond the areas of detectable genome‐wide admixture in most hybrid zones and, in half of them, asymmetric MHC exchange. In general, the elevated MHC allele sharing between species pairs with abutting ranges compared to geographically isolated species pairs also supports the prevalence of introgression. Collectively, our results demonstrate widespread MHC introgression in the Iberian Podarcis complex and suggest its adaptiveness. Contrary to previous results from Triturus newts, we did not observe differences in the rate of introgression between MHC classes. Our work adds support to the emerging view of adaptive introgression as a key mechanism shaping MHC diversity. It also raises questions about the effect of elevated MHC variation and factors leading to the asymmetry of adaptive introgression.
The good, the bad, and the phosphate: regulation of beneficial and detrimental plant–microbe interactions by the plant phosphate status
Authors: Paries Michael , Gutjahr Caroline
Published: May 2023

Phosphate (Pi) is indispensable for life on this planet. However, for sessile land plants it is poorly accessible. Therefore, plants have developed a variety of strategies for enhanced acquisition and recycling of Pi. The mechanisms to cope with Pi limitation as well as direct uptake of Pi from the substrate via the root epidermis are regulated by a conserved Pi starvation response (PSR) system based on a family of key transcription factors (TFs) and their inhibitors. Furthermore, plants obtain Pi indirectly through symbiosis with mycorrhiza fungi, which employ their extensive hyphal network to drastically increase the soil volume that can be explored by plants for Pi. Besides mycorrhizal symbiosis, there is also a variety of other interactions with epiphytic, endophytic, and rhizospheric microbes that can indirectly or directly influence plant Pi uptake. It was recently discovered that the PSR pathway is involved in the regulation of genes that promote formation and maintenance of AM symbiosis. Furthermore, the PSR system influences plant immunity and can also be a target of microbial manipulation. It is known for decades that the nutritional status of plants influences the outcome of plant–microbe interactions. The first molecular explanations for these observations are now emerging.
Effects of plant‐available soil silicon on seedling growth and foliar nutrient status across tropical tree species
Authors: Klotz Marius , Schaller Jörg , Engelbrecht Bettina M. J.
Published: May 2023

Plant‐available silicon (Si) concentrations vary considerably across tropical soils, yet the ecological importance of that variation remains largely unresolved. Increased Si availability can enhance growth and modulate foliar nutrient status in many crop species suggesting similar effects might occur in natural systems. However, how growth, foliar Si and macronutrient concentrations as well as their stoichiometry respond to plant‐available Si and how these responses differ across tropical tree species is unknown. We experimentally exposed seedlings of 12 tropical tree species to a gradient of plant‐available Si concentrations, representing 85 % of the variation found across central Panama, and assessed responses in aboveground growth and foliar nutrient status. Furthermore, we assessed whether higher plant‐available Si increases P availability. Increasing plant‐available Si led to increased foliar Si concentrations (by up to 140%). It also led to higher aboveground growth (by up to 220%), and it affected foliar C and N concentrations, and nutrient stoichiometry across species. However, at the species‐level only a small subset of two to four species showed significant growth and foliar nutrient responses. At the soil‐level, plant‐available P remained unchanged along the experimental soil Si gradient. Our results showed that Si can improve growth and/or modulate foliar nutrient status in a number of tropical tree species. Furthermore, species' growth and foliar nutrient concentrations might vary differently across tropical forest sites varying in plant‐available Si. Additionally, Si‐induced responses in foliar nutrient stoichiometry have the potential to affect herbivory and litter decomposition. Taken together, natural variation in plant‐available Si might influence plant performance unequally across tropical tree species, and change trophic interactions, with potential implications for ecosystem processes.
Beyond Linguistic Relativity, Emotion Concepts Illustrate How Meaning is Contextually and Individually Variable
Authors: Hoemann Katie
Published: May 2023

Kemmerer describes grounded accounts of cognition and, using crosslinguistic diversity across conceptual domains, argues that these accounts entail linguistic relativity. In this comment, I extend Kemmerer's position to the domain of emotion. Emotion concepts exemplify characteristics highlighted by grounded accounts of cognition and differ by culture and language. Recent research further demonstrates considerable situation‐ and person‐specific differences. Based on this evidence, I argue that emotion concepts carry unique implications for variation in meaning and experience, entailing a relativity that is contextual and individual in addition to linguistic. I conclude by considering what such pervasive relativity means for interpersonal understanding.
Social Media Dependency and Facebook Usage among the Older Adults of Kerala
Authors: Menon Vishnu Achutha , Prasad Aswathi , Puthur Limson Antony , K K Soman , Joseph Litty
Published: May 2023

Social media has become an integral part of modern society, with people of all ages using various platforms to connect, share information, and stay up-to-date on current events. However, there has been a recent trend of increased Facebook usage among older adults, which has raised concerns about social media dependency. The current study explores the trends in social media dependency and Facebook intensity among older adults of Kerala. The present study employed a quantitative research design and the sample consisted of 416 older adults, aged above 60 years. Two scales were used to collect data: the Social Media Dependency Scale (SMDS) and the Facebook Intensity Measure (FBI). Frequency and percentage analysis, Spearman’s Rho, Kruskal-Wallis H test, and Mann-Whitney U test were carried out using SPSS (Version 23) for deriving results. Those individuals who are more dependent on social media are also more likely to engage in high levels of Facebook activity. A good majority of the participants were found to be using social media and Facebook for more than 3 hours in a day and having more than 400 friends. Social media dependency and Facebook intensity were reported to be high in urban localities, South Kerala having significantly higher rates of social media dependency when compared to North and Central regions. Social media dependency was found to be high among males, whereas no difference was in Facebook intensity among male and females.
Deformation and Durability of Soft Three-Dimensional-Printed Polycarbonate Urethane Porous Membranes for Potential Use in Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Authors: Bachtiar Emilio Omar , Knight Katrina , Moalli Pamela , Gall Ken
Published: May 2023

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is the herniation of the pelvic organs into the vaginal space, resulting in the feeling of a bulge and organ dysfunction. Treatment of POP often involves repositioning the organs using a polypropylene mesh, which has recently been found to have relatively high rates of complications. Complications have been shown to be related to stiffness mismatches between the vagina and polypropylene, and unstable knit patterns resulting in mesh deformations with mechanical loading. To overcome these limitations, we have three-dimensional (3D)-printed a porous, monofilament membrane composed of relatively soft polycarbonate-urethane (PCU) with a stable geometry. PCU was chosen for its tunable properties as it is comprised of both hard and soft segments. The bulk mechanical properties of PCU were first characterized by testing dogbone samples, demonstrating the dependence of PCU mechanical properties on its measurement environment and the effect of print pathing. The pore dimensions and load-relative elongation response of the 3D-printed PCU membranes under monotonic tensile loading were then characterized. Finally, a fatigue study was performed on the 3D-printed membrane to evaluate durability, showing a similar fatigue resistance with a commercial synthetic mesh and hence its potential as a replacement.
Design and Evaluation of a Smooth-Locking-Based Customizable Prosthetic Knee Joint
Authors: Wang Kunyang , Williams Harry , Qian Zhihui , Wei Guowu , Xiu Haohua , Chen Wei , Lu Xuewei , Jin Jianqiao , Ren Lei , Liang Wei , Ren Luquan
Published: May 2023

Limb loss affects many people from a variety of backgrounds around the world. The most advanced commercially available prostheses for transfemoral amputees are fully active (powered) designs but remain very expensive and unavailable in the developing world. Consequently, improvements of low-cost, passive prostheses have been made to provide high-quality rehabilitation to amputees of any background. This study explores the design and evaluation of a smooth-locking-based bionic knee joint to replicate the swing phase of the human gait cycle. The two-part design was based on the condyle geometry of the interface between the femur and tibia obtained from magnetic resonance (MR) images of the human subject, while springs were used to replace the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments. A flexible four-bar linkage mechanism was successfully achieved to provide not only rotation along a variable instantaneous axis but also slight translation in the sagittal plane, similar to the anatomical knee. We systematically evaluated the effects of different spring configurations in terms of stiffness, position, and relaxion length on knee flexion angles during walking. A good replication of the swing phase was achieved by relatively high stiffness and increased relaxation length of springs. The stance phase of the gait cycle was improved compared to some models but remained relatively flat, where further verification should be conducted. In addition, 3D printing technique provides a convenient design and manufacturing process, making the prosthesis customizable for different individuals based on subject-specific modeling of the amputee’s knee.
Origami-Inspired Variable Stiffness Actuator for Safe Human–Robot Interaction
Authors: Zheng Bowen , Xu Pengpeng , Guo Zhaoqi , Xie Longhan
Published: May 2023

In this paper, an origami-inspired variable stiffness actuator (OVSA) is proposed. Innovatively borrowing from the origami principle, OVSA uses torsion springs and hinges to form a transformable hexagonal structure as the special elastic component. While having a light and compact structure, it can also theoretically realize the change of stiffness from zero to infinity. Archimedean Spiral Cam (ASC) is used as a transmission element to connect the motor and elastic components further increasing the compactness of the structure. In addition, the OVSA requires very little torque to maintain stiffness under deflection conditions, which improves energy efficiency. In this paper, the stiffness equation of OVSA is established and verified by experiments. The results show that its stiffness is high when the deflection angle is close to 0 deg and decreases rapidly with the increase of deflection angle, which makes it have sufficient safety.
System Thermal-Hydraulics Model for Fluoride Salt-Cooled Reactor Based on Small Modular Advanced High Temperature Reactor (SmAHTR) Design Concept
Authors: Wang Shujun , Huang Xianmin , Bromley Blair P.
Published: May 2023

A system thermal-hydraulics model for a fluoride-salt-cooled high-temperature reactor (FHR) based on the small modular advanced high-temperature reactor (SmAHTR) design concept is developed, using RELAP5-3D. The SmAHTR components modeled in the simulations include the reactor core, lower plenum, upper plenum, top plenum, three primary heat exchangers (PHXs) equipped with three primary pumps, and three director reactor auxiliary cooling system (DRACS) equipped with three fluid diodes. Flows through the reactor core are represented by 19 individual fuel channels, one reflector-hole channel, and one downcomer channel. In each of the 19 SmAHTR fuel block channels, the fuel elements are modeled in five groups using five heat structures, each with their corresponding power level. The total reactor power is 125 MWth. Using representative core power distributions for the SmAHTR at beginning-of-cycle (BOC) and at end-of-cycle (EOC), two steady-state system thermal-hydraulic model simulations with RELAP5-3D were performed using a nominal pressure drop loss factor of 1.5 for all nine junctions in each of the 19 fuel channels modeled. Exit coolant temperatures ranged from 688 °C to 739 °C (BOC) and from 696 °C to 721 °C (EOC), while peak fuel centerline temperatures in the highest power block were 1249 °C (BOC) and 1029 °C (EOC). By adjusting the loss factors to modify coolant flow rates in each channel, a more uniform exit coolant temperature was possible, ranging from 701 °C to 709 °C (BOC) and 698 °C to 714 °C (EOC), while peak fuel centerline temperatures were reduced to 1204 °C (BOC) and 988 °C (EOC), giving results more consistent with earlier studies of the SmAHTR.
Studies on the Effect of Substrate Preheating, Interlayer Dwell, and Heat Treatment on Microstructure, Residual Stress, and Mechanical Properties of IN625 Superalloy Built by Direct Metal Deposition
Authors: Mohsin Khan K. , Rao Thella Babu , Manjunath B. N. , Abhinav K. , Vinod A. R. , Mohammed Raffi
Published: May 2023

In this investigation, IN625 alloy samples were processed by the directed energy deposition (DED) approach under various metal deposition strategies such as substrate preheating, interlayer dwell and with combined substrate preheating, interlayer dwell, as well as postheat treatment. The processed sample’s microstructural characteristics, residual stress, microhardness, and tensile properties are assessed in comparison to the manufacturing strategies. Rapid heat dissipation caused finer microstructure near the substrate. There is a growth of columnar grain structure epitaxially in the build direction. The progressive microstructure change seen in the build direction across the cross section was due to the gradual rise of heat accumulation between subsequent layers. The interdendritic zones contained Laves phases. Laves phases have a high Nb, Mo, as well as Si content, according to the energy-dispersive spectroscope (EDS) spectrum. The field emission scanning microscopy (FESEM) microstructural morphology of the deposited samples after their postheat treatment has shown a new microstructure with the combination of equiaxed (recrystallized) and columnar dendritic structure with the reconstruction of columnar dendritic solidification microstructure into equiaxed grains. Heat treatment caused the Laves phases to dissolve in the matrix of IN625 alloy, which led to the precipitation of nanometric γ″ phases. The deposition strategies with substrate preheating significantly decreased the residual stress with moderately improved mechanical properties. The combination of substrate preheating, interlayer dwell, and postheat treatment has shown an outstanding reduction of residual stress along with a remarkable improvement in tensile strength with the retainment of an equivalent ductility compared with other strategies.
Physical Performance and Mobility Tests Using Telehealth: A Feasibility Study With Athletes
Authors: Jales Maycon Thomas Moises , Barbosa Germanna Medeiros , Gonçalves Gustavo Viotto , Fialho Hilmaynne Renaly Fonseca , Calixtre Letícia Bojikian , Kamonseki Danilo Harudy
Published: May 2023

Context: Physical performance tests (PPTs) and mobility tests have been widely used in sports rehabilitation. However, the feasibility of PPTs and mobility tests via telehealth is unknown. Objectives: To verify the feasibility of PPTs and mobility tests to assess athletes via telehealth. Design: This is a feasibility study. Participants: Athletes enrolled in a sports team or club for at least 2 years and with previous enrollment in a competitive league were recruited through advertisements on social media. The athletes included in this study (mean age = 25.9 y, from different sports) performed a battery of PPTs and mobility tests for the lower-extremity or upper-extremity and trunk, according to their sport modality. Main Outcome Measure: The feasibility was assessed with recruitment, success, and dropout rates. In addition, athletes’ perceptions of easiness, satisfaction, and safety during the lower-extremity or upper-extremity and trunk PPTs and mobility tests were assessed. Results: Seventy-three athletes were included, between January and April 2021: 41 were allocated to the lower-extremity and 32 to the upper-extremity and trunk PPTs and mobility test, according to their sports modality. The overall dropout rate was 20.55%; >89% of the athletes agreed that the PPTs and mobility tests via telehealth were easy to perform, >78% were satisfied, and >75% felt safe during the assessments. Conclusion: This study indicated that these 2 batteries of performance and mobility tests via telehealth are feasible to assess the lower and upper-extremities, and the trunk of athletes, considering the adherence, athletes’ perception of easiness, satisfaction, and safety.
Evolutionary dynamics of mushroom body Kenyon cell types in hymenopteran brains from multifunctional type to functionally specialized types
Authors: Kuwabara Takayoshi , Kohno Hiroki , Hatakeyama Masatsugu , Kubo Takeo
Published: May 2023

Evolutionary dynamics of diversification of brain neuronal cell types that have underlain behavioral evolution remain largely unknown. Here, we compared transcriptomes and functions of Kenyon cell (KC) types that compose the mushroom bodies between the honey bee and sawfly, a primitive hymenopteran insect whose KCs likely have the ancestral properties. Transcriptome analyses show that the sawfly KC type shares some of the gene expression profile with each honey bee KC type, although unique gene expression profiles have also been acquired in each honey bee KC type. In addition, functional analysis of two sawfly genes suggested that the functions in learning and memory of the ancestral KC type were heterogeneously inherited among the KC types in the honey bee. Our findings strongly suggest that the functional evolution of KCs in Hymenoptera involved two previously hypothesized processes for evolution of cell function: functional segregation and divergence.
Convergence of scaffold-guided bone regeneration principles and microvascular tissue transfer surgery
Authors: Sparks David S. , Savi Flavia M. , Dlaska Constantin E. , Saifzadeh Siamak , Brierly Gary , Ren Edward , Cipitria Amaia , Reichert Johannes C. , Wille Marie-Luise , Schuetz Michael A. , Ward Nicola , Wagels Michael , Hutmacher Dietmar W.
Published: May 2023

A preclinical evaluation using a regenerative medicine methodology comprising an additively manufactured medical-grade ε-polycaprolactone β-tricalcium phosphate (mPCL-TCP) scaffold with a corticoperiosteal flap was undertaken in eight sheep with a tibial critical-size segmental bone defect (9.5 cm
3
, M size) using the regenerative matching axial vascularization (RMAV) approach. Biomechanical, radiological, histological, and immunohistochemical analysis confirmed functional bone regeneration comparable to a clinical gold standard control (autologous bone graft) and was superior to a scaffold control group (mPCL-TCP only). Affirmative bone regeneration results from a pilot study using an XL size defect volume (19 cm
3
) subsequently supported clinical translation. A 27-year-old adult male underwent reconstruction of a 36-cm near-total intercalary tibial defect secondary to osteomyelitis using the RMAV approach. Robust bone regeneration led to complete independent weight bearing within 24 months. This article demonstrates the widely advocated and seldomly accomplished concept of “bench-to-bedside” research and has weighty implications for reconstructive surgery and regenerative medicine more generally.
Microbial β-glucuronidases drive human periodontal disease etiology
Authors: Lietzan Adam D. , Simpson Joshua B. , Walton William G. , Jariwala Parth B. , Xu Yongmei , Boynton Marcella H. , Liu Jian , Redinbo Matthew R.
Published: May 2023

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with persistent oral microbial dysbiosis. The human β-glucuronidase (GUS) degrades constituents of the periodontium and is used as a biomarker for periodontitis severity. However, the human microbiome also encodes GUS enzymes, and the role of these factors in periodontal disease is poorly understood. Here, we define the 53 unique GUSs in the human oral microbiome and examine diverse GUS orthologs from periodontitis-associated pathogens. Oral bacterial GUS enzymes are more efficient polysaccharide degraders and processers of biomarker substrates than the human enzyme, particularly at pHs associated with disease progression. Using a microbial GUS-selective inhibitor, we show that GUS activity is reduced in clinical samples obtained from individuals with untreated periodontitis and that the degree of inhibition correlates with disease severity. Together, these results establish oral GUS activity as a biomarker that captures both host and microbial contributions to periodontitis, facilitating more efficient clinical monitoring and treatment paradigms for this common inflammatory disease.
Bioinspired claw-engaged and biolubricated swimming microrobots creating active retention in blood vessels
Authors: Li Tianlong , Yu Shimin , Sun Bei , Li Yilong , Wang Xinlong , Pan Yunlu , Song Chunlei , Ren Yukun , Zhang Zhanxiang , Grattan Kenneth T. V. , Wu Zhiguang , Zhao Jie
Published: May 2023

Swimming microrobots guided in the circulation system offer considerable promise in precision medicine but currently suffer from problems such as limited adhesion to blood vessels, intensive blood flow, and immune system clearance—all reducing the targeted interaction. A swimming microrobot design with clawed geometry, a red blood cell (RBC) membrane–camouflaged surface, and magnetically actuated retention is discussed, allowing better navigation and inspired by the tardigrade’s mechanical claw engagement, coupled to an RBC membrane coating, to minimize blood flow impact. Using clinical intravascular optical coherence tomography in vivo, the microrobots’ activity and dynamics in a rabbit jugular vein was monitored, illustrating very effective magnetic propulsion, even against a flow of ~2.1 cm/s, comparable with rabbit blood flow characteristics. The equivalent friction coefficient with magnetically actuated retention is elevated ~24-fold, compared to magnetic microspheres, achieving active retention at 3.2 cm/s, for >36 hours, showing considerable promise across biomedical applications.
A human model of asthma exacerbation reveals transcriptional programs and cell circuits specific to allergic asthma
Authors: Alladina Jehan , Smith Neal P. , Kooistra Tristan , Slowikowski Kamil , Kernin Isabela J. , Deguine Jacques , Keen Henry L. , Manakongtreecheep Kasidet , Tantivit Jessica , Rahimi Rod A. , Sheng Susan L. , Nguyen Nhan D. , Haring Alexis M. , Giacona Francesca L. , Hariri Lida P. , Xavier Ramnik J. , Luster Andrew D. , Villani Alexandra-Chloé , Cho Josalyn L. , Medoff Benjamin D.
Published: May 2023

Asthma is a chronic disease most commonly associated with allergy and type 2 inflammation. However, the mechanisms that link airway inflammation to the structural changes that define asthma are incompletely understood. Using a human model of allergen-induced asthma exacerbation, we compared the lower airway mucosa in allergic asthmatics and allergic non-asthmatic controls using single-cell RNA sequencing. In response to allergen, the asthmatic airway epithelium was highly dynamic and up-regulated genes involved in matrix degradation, mucus metaplasia, and glycolysis while failing to induce injury-repair and antioxidant pathways observed in controls.
IL9
-expressing pathogenic T
H
2 cells were specific to asthmatic airways and were only observed after allergen challenge. Additionally, conventional type 2 dendritic cells (DC2 that express
CD1C
) and
CCR2
-expressing monocyte-derived cells (MCs) were uniquely enriched in asthmatics after allergen, with up-regulation of genes that sustain type 2 inflammation and promote pathologic airway remodeling. In contrast, allergic controls were enriched for macrophage-like MCs that up-regulated tissue repair programs after allergen challenge, suggesting that these populations may protect against asthmatic airway remodeling. Cellular interaction analyses revealed a T
H
2–mononuclear phagocyte–basal cell interactome unique to asthmatics. These pathogenic cellular circuits were characterized by type 2 programming of immune and structural cells and additional pathways that may sustain and amplify type 2 signals, including TNF family signaling, altered cellular metabolism, failure to engage antioxidant responses, and loss of growth factor signaling. Our findings therefore suggest that pathogenic effector circuits and the absence of proresolution programs drive structural airway disease in response to type 2 inflammation.
“Age could not wither her…” because of her cytotoxic CD4
+
T cells?
Authors: Guy Thomas , Pillai Shiv
Published: May 2023

Cytotoxic CD4
+
T cells specific for CMV cull senescent skin fibroblasts.
Cerebellar and brainstem stroke possibly associated with booster dose of BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) COVID-19 vaccine
Authors: Thomas Michael George , Dermawan Andrew , Teh Sue
Published: May 2023

As COVID-19 vaccination becomes widely available and administered globally, there have been several reports of side effects attributed to the vaccine. This report highlights a patient who developed stroke 2 days following the administration of the COVID-19 vaccine, although its association remains uncertain. A man in his late 30s developed acute neurological symptoms 2 days after receiving the booster dose of the BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. History and neurological examination suggested a posterior circulation stroke, which was confirmed by MRI, as a right-sided posterior inferior cerebellar artery stroke. Full workup did not suggest other causes of the stroke. Due to the patient’s age and well-controlled risk factors, it was presumed to be a rare adverse effect of the vaccine. Medical management with aspirin, statin therapy and rehabilitation led to the improvement of symptoms and enabled ongoing restoration of function. Further cases of stroke following administration of COVID-19 vaccine have been documented in the literature, but the association is yet to be established.
DisseminatedMycobacterium genavenseinfection in a patient with a history of sarcoidosis
Authors: Vilstrup Emil , Dahl Victor Næstholt , Fløe Andreas , Degn Kristine Bruun
Published: May 2023

We present a case ofMycobacterium genavenseinfection in a man in his 60s with a history of sarcoidosis, treated for 24 years with systemic corticosteroids and later methotrexate as monotherapy. He presented with low grade fever, dyspnoea and right-sided thoracic pain and was admitted due to a treatment-refractory infection. After a prolonged period of symptoms and diagnostics, acid-fast bacilli were demonstrated in pleural fluid and PCR revealedM. genavense. The patient was treated with intravenous amikacin, peroral azithromycin, rifampicin and ethambutol for a total of 18 months, with a good clinical and radiological treatment response. Infection withM. genavenseis rare in HIV-negative immunocompromised hosts. Diagnosing and treating mycobacterial infections, especially for more rare species, remains a challenge as clinical evidence is sparse. Nonetheless, the disease-causing infection must be considered in symptomatic and immunocompromised patients.
Huge complex composite odontoma of mandible
Authors: Ram Hari , Sundaram Ezhilarasi , Katrolia Ravi , Gupta Richa
Published: May 2023

A young female patient reported to the department of oral and maxillofacial surgery with complaint of asymptomatic swelling in left posterior region of lower jaw since 6 months. Complete intraoral and extraoral clinical examination was done. Routine radiographical investigations were advised. Based on clinical and radiographical findings she was provisionally diagnosed with odontoma of left mandible. It was a considerably giant mass with thinned out both cortical plates and the inferior border of the mandible. Although we assumed high risk of fracture of the mandible, successful surgical excision of the tumour was done using a minimally invasive intraoral approach and by sectioning the odontoma, sparing cortical bones. We managed to remove the whole of tumour without fracturing the mandible. Final histopathological report confirmed the initial diagnosis of complex composite odontoma. Patient is under regular follow-up.