bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pedestrian Evacuation Modeling Using Agent-Based Model and Social-Force Model
Authors: Firdausyi Alya Mutiara , Dini Septian Ulan , Nurafni Sevi , Viridi Sparisoma
Published: April 2024

Good emergency management is essential in planning events that have the potential to endanger lives, one of which is preparing for an effective and efficient evacuation. Evacuation evaluation using a fire drill is not optimal because it does not describe the emergency. Therefore, agent-based modeling is carried out to see interactions between individuals and their environment during evacuation. ABM (Agent-Based Modeling) is combined with a social-force model, which is the source of the agent’s movement style toward goals and avoiding obstacles. The simulation is carried out using NetLogo 6.3.0 software, which can represent agents spread across a 2-dimensional room with variations in room size, exits, and the number of agents involved. Several characteristics are given to the agent to cause heterogeneity, including age categories in the form of children, adults, people over 70, and people with disabilities, which will determine the agent’s walking speed. The measurements observed were the average duration of evacuation and the average speed of agents. From the simulation results, it can be concluded that using the social force model will lead to the emergence of collective behavior, such as clogging and arching in agents. The exact population density in different room areas will affect the evacuation duration, whereas a larger room area will cause the agent to travel a greater distance to the exit. An increase in evacuation duration will accelerate rapidly at low densities and slow down as density increases.
Dynamics of settling disks in a cross-flow
Authors: Rizqie Arbie M. , An’umillah Firaas , Mahardika Harry
Published: April 2024

Physical properties of rocks depend strongly on its grain packing which is determined by the natural process involving fluid-structure interaction during deposition. Here, we address the dynamics of settling solids with different sizes in a cross-flow numerically. This is an important aspect in rock formation process. Computational fluid-structure interaction usually involves the use of body-conformed grid. For the case of solid moving in a viscous fluid, the body-conformed grid has to be reconstructed in every time iteration which can be time consuming. The so-called Immersed Boundary method can be used to eliminate this grid reconstruction process. In this study, we use the couple of Immersed Boundary and Lattice Boltzmann Method (usually termed as IBLBM). In lattice Boltzmann, one does not require solving Poisson equation for pressure and a computation of intermediate field as in the usual fractional step procedure since velocity and pressure field can be obtained from the locally solved distribution function. These advantages make IBLBM can be easily employed. In this study, we perform simulations on the dynamics of a cluster of disks with two different values of diameter in a cross-flow. We compute the velocity distribution of the disks to study the sedimentation dynamics and we compare the results with a sedimentation process in a quiescent fluid. For the solid-fluid density ratio of 5 and incoming flow Reynolds number of 12, the velocity distribution is close to the normal distribution as also observed in the case of sedimentation in quiescent fluid.
Numerical Simulation of the Effect of Molten Salt Channel Number on Temperature Distribution in the Molten Salt Core Reactor
Authors: Dwiyulianti A , Yonanda A , Zulfalina  , Safitri R , Yusibani E
Published: April 2024

A critical aspect in the design of a nuclear reactor that needs to be considered is thermal analysis. This parameter relates to molten salt circulation, which serves as a fuel, and coolant in Molten Salt Reactor (MSR) core reactors. This study simulates the temperature distribution performance of the MSR core by considering the effect of the number of molten salt channels with inlet temperature variations. Knowing the temperature distribution will predict the characteristics of heat transfer in the form of natural convection for the survival of the reactor. The reactor used a Molten Salt Breeder Reactor (MSBR) design developed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The Ansys software was used to simulate a 3D model under steady-state conditions. The geometry was divided into two regions: solid (graphite material) and fluid (molten salt). The thickness of the moderator and radius of the molten salt channel were 0.0508 and 0.0208 m, respectively. The moderator height was 1.98 m. The number of molten salt channels varied up to four. The results showed a temperature difference of 9 to 15 K when the channel increased from one to four at 839 K inlet temperature.
Qudit Concurrence and Monogamy
Authors: Yanuwar Edyharto , Kosasih Jusak Sali
Published: April 2024

It is well known that entanglement is one of the distinctive aspects of the quantum world. The measurement and quantification of entanglement is one of the major problems in understanding and applying this resource. This research aims to investigate entanglement measures and their properties in high-dimensional systems. One such property is entanglement monogamy, viz. quantum correlations are not shareable, different from the classical ones. On the other hand, the study of entanglement depends on the definitions of its measures. Here we examine the applicability of concurrence, an entanglement measure known for its effectiveness in the analysis of qubit entanglement. While the entanglement of two-level systems or qubits is widely understood, its extension to higher dimensions remains challenging. Our research establishes equivalence between different concurrence definitions for bipartite qubit pure states and extends them to qudits. Subsequently, we investigate the monogamous relations of these measurements to explore their characteristics. This approach might enhance our comprehension of quantum traits in qudit systems and advance our understanding of entanglement in broader quantum contexts.
Analysis of Mineralization and Disease Characteristics of Bronzes Unearthed in Archaeology
Authors: Jiachang Chen , Liwei Chen , Liangshuai Zhang , xinzhan Cui , Xin Liu
Published: April 2024

Bronze artifacts unearthed by archaeologists are affected by underground burial environment and other factors, and most of them have different degrees of corrosion. Bronze artifacts unearthed by archaeologists have different degrees of mineralization. Establishing a data analysis database for basic structure and disease analysis of mineralized bronze artifacts is a necessary prerequisite for developing targeted reinforcement materials and realizing accurate protection. Based on the characteristic analysis of the mineralized bronzes, this paper systematically analyzed the mineralization and disease characteristics of the mineralized bronzes by Confocal Super Depth-of-Field Microscope(CSDTM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy spectrum analysis(EDS) and XRD, and compared and analyzed the microscopic morphology, composition and phase structure of the bronzes under the same burial environment, so as to provide support for subsequent targeted protection and reinforcement.
Characterization of the ATLAS Liquid Argon Front-End ASIC ALFE2 for the HL-LHC upgrade
Authors: Matakias D. , Carini G. , Chen H. , Dabrowski M. , Deptuch G. , Duflot L. , Kierstead J. , Liu T. , Ma H. , Morange N. , Rescia S. , Tang S. , Xu H.
Published: April 2024

ALFE2 is an ATLAS Liquid Argon Calorimeter (LAr) Front-End ASIC designed for the HL-LHC upgrade. ALFE2 comprises four channels of pre-amplifiers and CR-(RC)2 shapers with adjustable input impedance. ALFE2 features two separate gain outputs to provide 16-bit dynamic-range coverage and an optimum resolution. ALFE2 is characterized using a Front-End Test Board (FETB) based on a Zynq UltraScale+ MPSoC and two octal-channel 16-bit high-speed ADCs. The test results indicate that ALFE2 fulfills or greatly exceeds all specifications on gain, noise, linearity, uniformity, and radiation tolerance.
The HLS-II alarm system optimization for removing nuisance alarms
Authors: Xu S. , Wang K.X. , Liu G.F. , Li W.M. , Sun X.K.
Published: April 2024

Hefei Light Source II (HLS-II) is a vacuum ultraviolet
synchrotron light source. The HLS-II alarm system is responsible for
monitoring the alarms of the process variables and distributing the
alarm events in time. Nuisance alarms reduce the functionality,
credibility and trustworthiness of the alarm system. This paper
proposes a method for design alarm deadband and delay timers to
remove the nuisance alarm events to the expected ratio. An optimal
deadband width is calculated to reduce the alarm events while
balancing the effects of reducing the occurrence number of alarm
events and increasing the duration of alarm events. If the expected
ratio is not met after using the optimal deadband width, the delay
timers are set additionally. The Bayesian estimation approach is
used to estimate the probability that the delay timers eliminate the
alarm events. This method is based on statistical properties of the
process variables and can effectively remove nuisance alarm
events. Two examples of the HLS-II alarm system are provided to
illustrate the proposed method. In the two examples, the optimal
deadband removed 99.27% and 88.92% of nuisance alarms
respectively.
Fabrication of 197Au-backed Silicon target for In-beam Gamma-ray spectroscopy experiment
Authors: S.R. Abhilash , Sharma Madan , Kumar Sanjeev , Singh R.P. , Behera B.R.
Published: April 2024

The fabrication of stable 197Au-backed natural Si
targets with a thickness ranging from ∼ 400 μg/cm2 to
 ∼ 1.1 mg/cm2 using an electron beam evaporation technique
is discussed. In one of the attempts, a graphite sheet was used as
an evaporation source, which proves to be an efficient method in
terms of minimal wastage of source material. Characterizations of
the fabricated targets using various technique revealed that the
targets were uniform in thickness and had negligible
contamination. The optimization of evaporation parameters in the
present work enhances the potential for future fabrication of
isotopically enriched Si targets.
Preparation and characterization of chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol antibacterial sponge materials
Authors: Chen Xue , Xu Jing , Gafur Alidha , Chen Baoyu , Han Yibo , Zhang Liyuan , Kong Lingwen , Wang Guixue , Ye Zhiyi
Published: April 2024

This study utilized the freeze-drying method to create a chitosan (CS) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) sponge. To enhance its antibacterial properties, curcumin and nano silver (Cur@Ag) were added for synergistic antibacterial. After adding curcumin and nano silver, the mechanical properties of the composite sponge dressing (CS-PVA-Cur@Ag) were improved. The porosity of the composite sponge dressing was closed to 80%, which was helpful for drug release, and it had good water absorption and water retention rate. The nano silver diameter was 50–80 nm, which was optimal for killing bacteria. Antibacterial tests used Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus demonstrated that little nano silver was required to eliminate bacteria. Finally, in the rat full-thickness skin wound model, the composite sponge dressing can promote wound healing in a short time. In summary, CS-PVA-Cur@Ag wound dressing could protect from bacterial infection and accelerate wound healing. Thus, it had high potential application value for wound dressing.
Exotic magnetization curves in classical square-kagomé spin lattices
Authors: Schmidt Heinz-Jürgen , Richter Johannes
Published: April 2024

Classical spin systems with non-coplanar ground states typically exhibit nonlinear magnetization curves characterized by kinks and jumps. Our article briefly summarizes the most important related analytical results. In a comprehensive case study, we then address AF-square kagomé and AF/FM-square kagomé spin lattices equipped with additional cross-plaquette interactions. It is known that these systems have non-coplanar ground states that assume a cuboctahedral structure in the absence of a magnetic field. When a magnetic fieldHis switched on, a rich variety of different phases develops from the cuboctahedral ground state, which are studied in their dependence onHand a cross-plaquette coupling constantJ3>0. For the AF square-kagomé spin lattice, we carefully identify and describe seven phases that appear in a phase diagram with five triple points. The transitions between these phases are predominantly discontinuous, although two cases exhibit continuous transitions. In contrast, the phase diagram of the AF/FM square-kagomé model shows only four phases with a single triple point, but these also lead to exotic magnetization curves. Here, too, there are two types of phase boundaries belonging to continuous and discontinuous transitions.
Proper holomorphic embeddings with small limit sets
Authors: Forstnerič Franc
Published: April 2024

Let

X
X

be a Stein manifold of dimension

n
≥
1

n\ge 1

. Given a continuous positive increasing function

h
h

on

R

+

=
[
0
,
∞
)

\mathbb {R}_+=[0,\infty )

with

lim

t
→
∞

h
(
t
)
=
∞

\lim _{t\to \infty } h(t)=\infty

, we construct a proper holomorphic embedding

f
=
(
z
,
w
)
:
X
↪

C

n
+
1

×

C

n

f=(z,w):X\hookrightarrow \mathbb {C}^{n+1}\times \mathbb {C}^n

satisfying

|

w
(
x
)

|

>
h
(

|

z
(
x
)

|

)

|w(x)|>h(|z(x)|)

for all

x
∈
X

x\in X

. In particular,

f
f

may be chosen such that its limit set at infinity is a linearly embedded copy of

C
P

n

\mathbb {CP}^n

in

C
P

2
n

\mathbb {CP}^{2n}

.
Functional transgenes in Mexican maize: benefits and risks for insect pest management in Mexico and the United States
Authors: Blanco Carlos A , Hernandez Gerardo , Dively Galen , Conover Kevin , Portilla Maribel , Valentini Giseli , Fosado Antonio , Abel Craig A , Guzmán Homero , Occelli Laura , Knolhoff Lisa , Corona Miguel , Blanco Tania , Ward Tina , Nava-Camberos Urbano , Di-Bella Victor , Hutchison W D
Published: April 2024

Corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea) and fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) are major migratory pests of maize (Zea mays) in the United States and Mexico. They are primarily controlled in the United States with genetically engineered (GE) maize, while the 25-yr moratorium on cultivating GE maize in Mexico has forced growers to control these pests with insecticides, where maize productivity remains 35% below the world’s average. The United States annually exports 5% of its maize grain to Mexico, where it provides human food and animal feed. This seed is often sown by smallholder growers, leading to plantings of GE transgene-expressing maize and potential hybridization with local landraces. As a result, transgenes are now present in Mexican maize products and landraces. In this study, we examined the F1 offspring of GE maize to better understand the frequency of different transgenes expressed in maize seeds exported to Mexico. We show that exported seed contains numerous transgenes, including an estimated ~68% epsps expressing resistance to the herbicide glyphosate; ~80% pat and bar expressing resistance to the herbicide glufosinate; and ~82% Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) genes that effectively protect maize plants from several insect pests. We tested 134 samples, including landraces from 10 Mexican states, and found that 35% expressed resistance to glyphosate and 33% to glufosinate. Many samples containing herbicide resistance also expressed 11%–100% functional Bt transgenes, which can effectively reduce the refuge area provided by Mexican maize and increase the Bt-resistant allele frequency. We discuss ways that the introgression of transgenes could provide pest management benefits to Mexican growers but, at the same time, accelerate the development of Bt-resistance in corn earworm and fall armyworm. Our cost-effective screening methods can be used to determine the introgression of functional herbicide resistance and Bt transgenes in maize.
Low-severity fires in the boreal region: reproductive implications for black spruce stands in between stand-replacing fire events
Authors: Alfaro-Sánchez Raquel , Johnstone Jill F , Baltzer Jennifer L
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

Stand-replacing crown fires are the most prevalent type of fire regime in boreal forests in North America. However, a substantial proportion of low-severity fires are found within fire perimeters. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of low-severity fires on the reproductive potential and seedling recruitment in boreal forest stands in between stand-replacing fire events.

Methods

We recorded site and tree characteristics from 149 trees within 12 sites dominated by mature black spruce [Picea mariana (Mill.) B.S.P.] trees in the Northwest Territories, Canada. The presence of fire-scarred trees supported classification of sites as unburned or affected by low-severity fires in recent history. We used non-parametric tests to evaluate differences in site conditions between unburned and low-severity sites. We used linear and additive statistical models to evaluate differences in tree age, size and reproductive traits among unburned trees and trees from low-severity sites.

Key Results

The results showed a significantly higher density of dead black spruce trees in low-severity sites and marginally significant higher presence of permafrost. Trees from low-severity fire sites were significantly older, exhibited significantly lower tree growth and showed a tendency towards a higher probability of cone presence and percentage of open cones compared with trees from unburned sites. Surviving fire-scarred trees affected by more recent low-severity fires showed a tendency towards a higher probability of cone presence and cone production. The density of black spruce seedlings increased significantly with recent low-severity fires.

Conclusions

Trees in low-severity sites appeared to have escaped mortality from up to three fires, as indicated by fire-scar records and their older ages. Shallow permafrost at low-severity sites might cause lower flammability, allowing areas to act as fire refugia. Low-severity surface fires temporarily enhanced the reproductive capacity of surviving trees and the density of seedlings, probably as a stress response to fire events.
Paediatric-onset lymphomatoid papulosis: results of a multicentre retrospective cohort study on behalf of the EORTC Cutaneous Lymphoma Tumours Group (CLTG)
Authors: Blanchard Maël , Morren Marie-Anne , Busschots Anne-Marie , Hauben Esther , Alberti-Violetti Silvia , Berti Emilio , Avallone Gianluca , Tavoletti Gianluca , Panzone Michele , Quaglino Pietro , Colonna Cristiana , Melchers Rutger C , Vermeer Maarten H , Gniadecki Robert , Mitteldorf Christina , Gosmann Janika , Stadler Rudolf , Jonak Constanze , Oren-Shabtai Meital , Hodak Emmilia , Friedland Rivka , Gordon Emily , Geskin Larisa J , Scarisbrick Julia J , Mayo Martínez Fatima , Noguera Morel Lucero , Pehr Kevin , Amarov Boyko , Faouzi Mohamed , Nicolay Jan P , Kempf Werner , Blanchard Gabriela , Guenova Emmanuella
Published: April 2024

Background

Lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) is a rare cutaneous T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder. Comprehensive data on LyP in the paediatric population are scarce.

Objectives

To characterize the epidemiological, clinical, histopathological and prognostic features of paediatric LyP.

Methods

This was a retrospective multicentre international cohort study that included 87 children and adolescents with LyP diagnosed between 1998 and 2022. Patients aged ≤ 18 years at disease onset were included. LyP diagnosis was made in each centre, based on clinicopathological correlation.

Results

Eighty-seven patients from 12 centres were included. Mean age at disease onset was 7.0 years (range 3 months–18 years) with a male to female ratio of 2 : 1. Mean time between the onset of the first cutaneous lesions and diagnosis was 1.3 years (range 0–14). Initial misdiagnosis concerned 26% of patients. LyP was most often misdiagnosed as pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta, insect bites or mollusca contagiosa. Erythematous papules or papulonodules were the most frequent clinical presentation. Pruritus was specifically mentioned in 21% of patients. The main histological subtype was type A in 55% of cases. When analysed, monoclonal T-cell receptor rearrangement was found in 77% of skin biopsies. The overall survival rate was 100%, with follow-up at 5 years available for 33 patients and at 15 years for 8 patients. Associated haematological malignancy (HM) occurred in 10% of cases (n = 7/73), including four patients with mycosis fungoides, one with primary cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), one with systemic ALCL and one with acute myeloid leukaemia. If we compared incidence rates of cancer with the world population aged 0–19 years from 2001 to 2010, we estimated a significantly higher risk of associated malignancy in general, occurring before the age of 19 years (incidence rate ratio 87.49, 95% confidence interval 86.01–88.99).

Conclusions

We report epidemiological data from a large international cohort of children and adolescents with LyP. Overall, the disease prognosis is good, with excellent survival rates for all patients. Owing to an increased risk of associated HM, long-term follow-up should be recommended for patients with LyP.
Sphaerocrystals in seeds ofEuphorbiasubgenusEsula(Euphorbiaceae): morphology, occurrence, and relationship with phylogeny
Authors: Geltman Dmitry V , Medvedeva Nina A , Titova Galina E , Yakovleva Olga V
Published: April 2024

The term ‘sphaerocrystals’ (also sphaerites) in classic plant morphology was usually applied to spherical bodies visible in polarized light with a characteristic ‘Maltese cross’ and consisting of both inorganic and organic compounds. Initially sphaerocrystals were found in algal cells but were later also discovered in various organs of vascular plants (including seeds). Several authors noticed spherical particles on the seed surface and in testa cells of some Euphorbia species but a comprehensive study of this character in the genus (including the morphological origin of such particles) has not been carried out. We studied 72 species belonging to all 21 sections of Euphorbia subgenus Esula for presence of spherical particles on seed surface and in the testa using scanning, transmission, confocal laser electron microscopy, and light microscopy; histochemical and element analyses were also involved. We found that these particles have the same morphological features (including the demonstration of ‘Maltese cross’ in polarized light) as the ‘classic’ sphaerocrystals. We have recorded sphaerocrystals in 53 sampled species belonging to 20 sections of Euphorbia subgenus Esula; they are localized mostly in mesotesta cells and in some species are exuded onto the seed surface where they are often aggregated into clusters. Sphaerocrystals were absent in the sampled species (with one exception) of one of the major clades of the subgenus, formed by E. sect. Helioscopia and E. sect. Holophyllum. The absence of sphaerocrystals in this early divergent lineage of E. subgen. Esula may be related with adaptation of species of this lineage to more mesic habitats.
BoaBZR1.1 mediates brassinosteroid-induced carotenoid biosynthesis in Chinese kale
Authors: Zhang Chenlu , Liang Qiannan , Wang Yilin , Liang Sha , Huang Zhi , Li Huanxiu , Escalona Victor Hugo , Yao Xingwei , Cheng Wenjuan , Chen Zhifeng , Zhang Fen , Wang Qiaomei , Tang Yi , Sun Bo
Published: April 2024

Brassinazole resistant 1 (BZR1), a brassinosteroid (BR) signaling component, plays a pivotal role in regulating numerous specific developmental processes. Our study demonstrated that exogenous treatment with 2,4-epibrassinolide (EBR) significantly enhanced the accumulation of carotenoids and chlorophylls in Chinese kale (Brassica oleracea var. alboglabra). The underlying mechanism was deciphered through yeast one-hybrid (Y1H) and dual-luciferase (LUC) assays, whereby BoaBZR1.1 directly interacts with the promoters of BoaCRTISO and BoaPSY2, activating their expression. This effect was further validated through overexpression of BoaBZR1.1 in Chinese kale calli and plants, both of which exhibited increased carotenoid accumulation. Additionally, qPCR analysis unveiled upregulation of carotenoid and chlorophyll biosynthetic genes in the T1 generation of BoaBZR1.1-overexpressing plants. These findings underscored the significance of BoaBZR1.1-mediated BR signaling in regulating carotenoid accumulation in Chinese kale and suggested the potential for enhancing the nutritional quality of Chinese kale through genetic engineering of BoaBZR1.1.
Innovative arrangement of circular angled fins for maximizing the discharge performance of triple-tube heat storage systems
Authors: Kaplan Sami , Mohammed Hayder I , Hammoodi Karrar A , Mahdi Jasim M , Al-Azzawi Waleed Khalid , Ebrahimnataj Mohammad Reza , Togun Hussein , Alhassan Muataz S
Published: April 2024

This study introduces a novel triple-tube latent heat storage system enhanced with circular angled fins to improve solidification and heat recovery performance. The fins are arranged in staggered pattern with alternating upward and downward orientations on both sides of the PCM shell. A validated numerical model was developed using the enthalpy method to simulate the intricate heat transfer and phase change physics. Effects of circular fins geometry and operating conditions were systematically quantified on discharge rates and temperature uniformity. Four fin dimension cases (thickness × length): (2 × 5), (1 × 10), (0.66 × 15), and (0.57 × 17.5) mm2 were analyzed. The results demonstrate that fins with greater length and reduced thickness exhibit superior performance due to enhanced heat transfer capabilities, resulting in quicker solidification and faster heat retrieval. The longest 17.5-mm fins, achieving full solidification in 1973 s with 44%, 19%, and 1.9% quicker than cases with 5-mm, 10-mm, and 15-mm long fins, respectively. Incorporating an additional fin upward further reduces the solidification time by 4.5% while improving heat recovery by 3.6%. The 17.5-mm long fins increase heat discharge by 48% and outlet heat-transfer fluid temperatures by 39% versus straight fin baselines. Lower inlet heat-transfer fluid temperatures (10°C vs 20°C) reduce PCM solidification times by 31% (1755s vs 2554s) while increasing heat recovery rates by 57% (56.3 W vs 35.8 W). Overall, the integrated angled fins create a customizable latent heat storage system with greatly intensified heat transfer and thermal performance compared to conventional shell-and-tube arrangements.
Research and application of automatic mapping method of distribution network protection power supply based on knowledge graph and graph convolution network
Authors: Wang Yu , Mo Liangyuan , Wang Wei , Wei Jie , Yang Jing
Published: April 2024

This study aims to propose an automatic mapping method for distribution network protection based on knowledge graph (KG) and graph convolution network technology and applies it to power system. The relationship between physical entities in power grid is established by constructing KG, and multisource data fusion and analysis are realized by using graph convolution network technology, so as to realize one-click and automatic mapping of power diagram in power supply places. The distinctiveness of this study lies in the incorporation of KG and deep learning techniques into the field of power supply assurance for distribution networks, achieving automated and digitized generation of power supply assurance device diagrams with real-time dynamic updates capability. This innovation significantly enhances the level of digitization and intelligence in power supply assurance work, injecting new vitality into the field of power supply assurance for distribution networks. This method can provide a digital comprehensive and intuitive presentation for the power supply service and effectively improve the ability to grasp the equipment situation and risk situation awareness.
Long-term Elevation of Complement Factors in Cerebrospinal Fluid of Patients With Borna Disease Virus 1 Encephalitis
Authors: Bauswein Markus , Zoubaa Saida , Toelge Martina , Eidenschink Lisa , Riemenschneider Markus J , Neumann Bernhard , Lee De-Hyung , Eid Ehab , Tappe Dennis , Niller Hans Helmut , Gessner André , Schmidt Barbara , Bülow Sigrid , Angstwurm Klemens
Published: April 2024

Background

Borna disease virus 1 (BoDV-1) causes rare but severe zoonotic infections in humans, presenting as encephalitis. The case-fatality risk is very high and no effective countermeasures have been established so far. An immunopathology is presumed, while data on immune responses in humans are limited. Evidence of a role of the complement system in various neurological disorders and in viral infections of the central nervous system is increasing and specific inhibitors are available as therapeutic options.

Methods

In this study, we investigated factors of the complement system in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with BoDV-1 infections (n = 17) in comparison to noninflammatory control CSF samples (n = 11), using a bead-based multiplex assay. In addition, immunohistochemistry was performed using postmortem brain tissue samples.

Results

We found an intrathecal elevation of complement factors of all complement pathways and an active cascade during human BoDV-1 infections. The increase of certain complement factors such as C1q was persistent, and C3 complement deposits were detected in postmortem brain sections. Intrathecal complement levels were negatively correlated with survival.

Conclusions

Further investigations are warranted to clarify whether targeting the complement cascade by specific inhibitors might be beneficial for patients suffering from severe BoDV-1 encephalitis.
Increasing Inclusion in Classroom Discussion: The Raised Block as a Classroom Response System in International Studies
Authors: Leese Bryan , Rosen Amanda M
Published: April 2024

Discussion is one of the most frequently used pedagogical techniques in international studies classrooms, but student participation in discussion is not always inclusive and equitable. This exploratory study aims to improve the quality of student participation in classroom discussion by replacing traditional hand raising with the Raised Block. We introduce the Block and assess instructor and student use during seminar discussions in a U.S. Naval War College security studies program. A series of surveys asked students and instructors if using the Blocks increased perceptions of inclusivity during class discussion. Quantitative and qualitative analysis of the survey data showed that using the Blocks led to more varied, dynamic, and engaged student participation in seminar discussions for a slight majority of students. This was particularly the case for “quiet” and international students who may find it challenging to enter politically charged discussions common in international and security studies classrooms. By organizing participation, lowering barriers to speaking, creating a persistent signal to participate, and managing dominant students, Blocks can create space in the discussion for students who may otherwise lack access and inclusion.
Evaluation of the cyclic single-chain Fv antibody derived from nivolumab by biophysical analyses and in vitro cell-based bioassay
Authors: Kamesawa Sena , Ogawa Mizuki , Funakoshi Yoshiki , Kato Masaya , Kai Shosei , Namikawa Mana , Okazaki Kyo , Sato Takashi , Kobashigawa Yoshihiro , Morioka Hiroshi
Published: April 2024

Single-chain Fv (scFv) is a recombinant small antibody in which a polypeptide linker connects the variable regions of the light chain (VL) and the heavy chain (VH). The practical use of scFv, however, has been prevented by its tendency to aggregate due to interchain VL–VH interactions. We recently developed a cyclic scFv whose N-terminus and C-terminus were connected by protein ligation techniques. Biophysical comparisons between cyclic and linear scFv have been conducted, but cell biological evaluations remain unexplored. Here we studied the properties of cyclic and linear scFv derived from nivolumab. Biophysical studies revealed that the thermal stability was not changed but that the antigen-binding activity was approximately 3-fold higher as a result of circularization. A cell-based PD-1/PD-L1 interaction inhibitory assay revealed that the biological activity of scFv was markedly higher in the circularized form. In addition, biophysical analysis of scFv proteins incubated in the presence of serum revealed that circularization suppressed the decrease in antigen-binding activity. It could be assumed that circularization of scFv improved stability in the presence of serum, which in turn would suggest the applicability of cyclic scFv as a biopharmaceutical format.
Low–dose infigratinib increases bone growth and corrects growth plate abnormalities in an achondroplasia mouse model
Authors: Demuynck Benoit , Flipo Justine , Kaci Nabil , Dambkowski Carl , Paull Morgan , Muslimova Elena , Shah Bhavik P , Legeai-Mallet Laurence
Published: April 2024

Achondroplasia (ACH), the most common form of disproportionate short stature, is caused by gain–of–function point mutations in fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3). Abnormally elevated activation of FGFR3 modulates chondrocyte proliferation and differentiation via multiple signaling pathways, such as the MAPK pathway. Using a mouse model mimicking ACH (Fgfr3Y367C/+), we have previously shown that daily treatment with infigratinib (BGJ398), a selective and orally bioavailable FGFR1-3 inhibitor, at a dose of 2 mg/kg, significantly increased bone growth. In this study, we investigated the activity of infigratinib administered at substantially lower doses (0.2 and 0.5 mg/kg, given once daily) and using an intermittent dosing regimen (1 mg/kg every 3 days). Following a 15–day treatment period, these low dosages were sufficient to observe significant improvement of clinical hallmarks of ACH such as growth of the axial and appendicular skeleton and skull development. Immunohistological labeling demonstrated the positive impact of infigratinib on chondrocyte differentiation in the cartilage growth plate and the cartilage end plate of the vertebrae. Macroscopic and microcomputed analyses showed enlargement of the foramen magnum area at the skull base, thus improving foramen magnum stenosis, a well–recognized complication in ACH. No changes in FGF23 or phosphorus levels were observed, indicating that the treatment did not modify phosphate homeostasis. This proof–of–concept study demonstrates that infigratinib administered at low doses has the potential to be a safe and effective therapeutic option for children with ACH.
Cortical and trabecular mechanical properties in the femoral neck vary differently with changes in bone mineral density
Authors: Bittner-Frank Martin , Reisinger Andreas G , Andriotis Orestis G , Pahr Dieter H , Thurner Philipp J
Published: April 2024

Osteoporosis is an increasing burden for our aging society. Fracture risk assessment tool (FRAX) and areal bone mineral density (aBMD) have been mainly used as a surrogate, but only identify 46% of patients sustaining a hip fracture. Adding information about material and mechanical properties might improve the fracture risk prediction. In this study these properties were assessed of cortical and trabecular bone samples from the human femoral neck. In total, 178 trabeculae were obtained from 10 patients suffering a low-trauma fracture and 10 healthy donors (from a previous study) and 141 cortical specimens were newly manufactured from 17 low-trauma fracture patients and 15 controls. Cyclic tensile tests were performed to extract elastic, plastic, viscous, damage, and failure properties with a rheological model. No significant difference of any investigated property was determined. Interestingly, donor aBMD indicated a significant correlation with the post-yield behavior and damage accumulation (modulus degradation) of cortical bone. Cortical bone indicated a significantly larger apparent modulus (17.2 GPa), yield stress (50 MPa), viscosity (17.9 GPas), and damage accumulation (73%), but a decreased toughness (1.6 MJ/m3), than trabecular bone (8.8 GPa, 30 MPa, 9.3 GPas, 60%, 3.2 MJ/m3, respectively). Qualitatively, cortical bone displayed a linear-elastic phase, followed by a plastic phase with little post-yield hardening. In contrast, trabeculae yielded early, with a pronounced post-yield hardening phase and fractured at larger strains. Only a few correlations between donor mineral status and tissue mechanical behavior were found. It is suggested that the trabecularization of cortical bone with age and disease may not only result in a decreased bone mass, but further causes a transitioning from stiff elastic cortical to soft, viscous trabecular bone. This aspect warrants further investigation to determine its role in age- and osteoporosis-related bone fragility.
The oviposition preference and offspring performance of Aethina tumida (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae)
Authors: Yang Xinyu , Wang Mei , Gu Yifan , Han Wensu , Li Xiaoyu , Li Xiang , Zhong Yihai , Gao Jinglin
Published: April 2024

Given the rapid spread and potential harm caused by the small hive beetle, Aethina tumida (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) in China, it has become imperative to comprehend the developmental biology of this invasive species. Currently, there is limited knowledge regarding the impact of A. tumida female oviposition site preference on larval growth and development. To examine this, we investigated the ovipositional preference of adult female A. tumida on bee pupae, beebread, banana, and honey through a free choice test. Furthermore, we assessed the impact of these food resources on offspring performance, which included larval development time, survival, wandering larvae weight, emerged adult body mass, reproduction, and juvenile hormone titer. Our results showed that A. tumida females exhibited a strong preference for ovipositing on bee pupae compared to other diets, while showing reluctance toward honey. Moreover, A. tumida larvae that were fed on bee pupae displayed accelerated growth compared to those fed on other diets. Furthermore, A. tumida fed on bee pupae exhibited higher weights for wandering larvae, and emerged adult, increased pupation rates, enhanced fecundity and fertility, as well as a larger number of unilateral ovarioles during the larval stage when compared to those fed on other diets. Overall, the results indicate that the oviposition preferences of A. tumida females are adaptive, as their choices can enhance the fitness of their offspring. This finding aligns broadly with the hypothesis of oviposition preference and larval performance. This study can provide a foundation for the development of attractants aimed at promoting the oviposition of the A. tumida adults.
Downside and Upside Uncertainty Shocks
Authors: Forni Mario , Gambetti Luca , Sala Luca
Published: April 2024

An increase in uncertainty is not contractionary per se. What is contractionary is a widening of the left tail of the GDP growth forecast distribution, the downside uncertainty. On the contrary, an increase of the right tail, the upside uncertainty, is mildly expansionary. The reason why uncertainty shocks have been previously found to be contractionary is because movements in downside uncertainty dominate existing empirical measures of uncertainty. The results are obtained using a new econometric approach that combines quantile regressions and structural vector autoregressions (VARs).
Postoperative anticoagulation management using subcutaneous unfractionated heparin for a patient with nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis: a case report
Authors: Mine Hiroki , Saku Kosuke , Takagi Kazuyoshi , Nohara Shoichiro , Hiromatsu Shinichi , Fukumoto Yoshihiro , Tayama Eiki
Published: April 2024

Nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE) presents nonbacterial vegetation on cardiac valves. NBTE requires appropriate anticoagulant therapy to prevent recurrence after surgery. However, there has not yet been established evidence for anticoagulant therapy in NBTE, and low molecular weight heparin is not approved in Japan. We present a case of NBTE that was successfully managed with anticoagulant therapy using subcutaneous unfractionated heparin. A 59-year-old woman was diagnosed with NBTE on the mitral and tricuspid valve associated with breast cancer, underwent valve replacement. Warfarin and continuous intravenous unfractionated heparin were started. However, disseminated intravascular coagulation occurred after heparin was discontinued. Continuous intravenous unfractionated heparin injection was resumed immediately, and subcutaneous unfractionated heparin was administered before discharge. Postoperative echocardiography revealed no vegetation on the prosthetic valves thereafter. Subcutaneous unfractionated heparin therapy is useful to prevent the recurrence of NBTE as the anticoagulation in outpatients.
Bayesian Quantile Regression Models for Complex Survey Data Under Informative Sampling
Authors: Nascimento Marcus L , Gonçalves Kelly C M
Published: April 2024

The interest in considering the relation among random variables in quantiles instead of the mean has emerged in various fields, and data collected from complex survey designs are of fundamental importance to different areas. Despite the extensive literature on survey data analysis and quantile regression models, research papers exploring quantile regression estimation accounting for an informative design have primarily been restricted to a frequentist framework. In this paper, we introduce different Bayesian methods relying on the survey-weighted estimator and the estimating equations. A model-based simulation study evaluates the proposed methods compared to alternative approaches and a naïve model fitting ignoring the informative sampling design under different scenarios. In addition, we illustrate and conduct a prior sensitivity analysis in a design-based simulation study that uses data from Prova Brasil 2011.
Malaria cases in China acquired through international travel, 2013–2022
Authors: Zhu Yan , Restrepo Angela Cadavid , Wang Hai-Bo , Mills Deborah J , Liang Rong-Rong , Liu Zhi-Bin , Lau Colleen L , Furuya-Kanamori Luis
Published: April 2024

Background

Despite the World Health Organization certifying China malaria-free in 2021, the risk of local transmission caused by imported malaria cases remains a significant clinical and public health issue. It is necessary to present the changing trends of malaria in China and discuss the role of travel medicine services in consolidating malaria elimination.

Methods

This study systematically reviewed articles and reports related to human malaria from 2013 to 2022 published in international and Chinese databases. Data on malaria (i.e. number of cases, Plasmodium spp., diagnostic method, country of acquisition, provinces with high risk of re-introduction and transmission) were collected and synthesized, then summarized using descriptive statistics.

Results

Overall, 24 758 cases of malaria (>99.5% laboratory confirmed, > 99.2% imported, 0.5% fatal) were reported in China from 2013 to 2022, with a downward trend over the years (4128 cases in 2013 compared to 843 cases in 2022; χ2 trend P = 0.005). The last locally acquired case was reported in 2017. Plasmodium falciparum (65.5%) was the most common species identified, followed by P. vivax (20.9%) and P. ovale (10.0%). Two P. knowlesi cases were also identified in 2014 and 2017 in returned travellers from Malaysia and Indonesia, respectively. The most common countries for malaria acquisition were Ghana, Angola and Myanmar. Plasmodium vivax was mainly detected in returned travellers from Myanmar, while P. falciparum and P. ovale were detected in travellers from sub-Saharan Africa. Imported cases were mainly reported in Yunnan, Jiangsu, Sichuan, Guangxi, Shandong, Zhejiang and Henan provinces, where large numbers of Chinese people travel overseas for work.

Conclusion

Returned travellers from malaria-endemic countries pose a significant risk of malaria re-introduction to China. Travel medicine should be strengthened to improve the capacity and accessibility of both pre- and post-travel services, including malaria prophylaxis and prompt diagnosis of illness in returned travellers.
Development of quality indicators for pregnancy and childbirth in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Hatano Mika , Yajima Nobuyuki , Yanai Ryo , Ishii Sho , Tsujimoto Yasushi , Azuma Teruhisa , Atsumi Tatsuya , Kaneko Yuko , Kameda Hideto , Kuwana Masataka , Tanaka Yoshiya , Nakagawa Shiori , Nakajima Ayako , Hiramatsu Yuri , Fujita Daisuke , Miyamae Takako , Murashima Atsuko
Published: April 2024

Objectives

A quality indicator (QI) for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) during pregnancy and childbirth that is useful for sharing standard treatment policies has not yet been developed. This study aimed to develop a QI for SLE associated with pregnancy and childbirth.

Methods

To identify candidate QIs, we conducted a systematic literature review on the development of QIs for SLE related to pregnancy and childbirth and on clinical practice guidelines. Candidate QI items were extracted from the final selected articles, and a first evaluation, panel meeting, and second evaluation were conducted to determine whether the candidate items were appropriate as QIs. Items for which all panel members reached a consensus were designated pregnancy and childbirth-related SLE QIs.

Results

Four articles on SLE QI development and 28 practice guidelines were listed through abstract/text screening. Based on these studies, 52 candidate QIs were extracted that were limited to items related to pregnancy and childbirth and 41 items were selected on which all panel members agreed.

Conclusion

We developed pregnancy-related SLE QIs using the RAND/UCLA method and selected 41 items, which could be used clinically.
Real-world clinical decisions of physicians in the management of Takayasu arteritis and giant cell arteritis in Japan: A cross-sectional web questionnaire survey
Authors: Abe Yoshiyuki , Fujii Takao , Miyawaki Yoshia , Sugihara Takahiko , Uchida Haruhito A , Maejima Yasuhiro , Watanabe Yoshiko , Hashimoto Takuya , Miyamae Takako , Nakaoka Yoshikazu , Harigai Masayoshi , Tamura Naoto
Published: April 2024

Objectives

The aim is to access the real-world clinical management of physicians who treat Takayasu arteritis (TAK) and giant cell arteritis (GCA) after the publication of the Japanese Circulation Society (JCS) 2017 Guidelines for the Management of Vasculitis Syndrome.

Methods

This descriptive, cross-sectional study utilized self-administered electronic questionnaires, which were answered in February 2022 by physicians treating TAK or GCA and registered with Macromill Inc.

Results

The 329 survey respondents were enrolled. The 2017 JCS Guidelines were the most commonly referenced information source for resolving clinical questions, accessed by 70% of respondents. Ophthalmoscopy was performed in only 50% of patients with TAK and in 70% for GCA. The median percentages of patients who underwent 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography for TAK and GCA patients were 23% and 20% at diagnosis, respectively, and 10% each at follow-up within 12 months. Tocilizumab was the most frequently used medication in combination with glucocorticoids for both TAK and GCA, especially in remission induction therapy for relapsed patients.

Conclusions

The majority of physicians treating TAK and GCA referred to the 2017 JCS guidelines. This report clarified the current clinical practice for large vessel vasculitis in Japan, providing information for the next revision of the guidelines.