bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unraveling the rheology of inverse vulcanized polymers
Authors: Bischoff Derek J. , Lee Taeheon , Kang Kyung-Seok , Molineux Jake , O’Neil Parker Wallace , Pyun Jeffrey , Mackay Michael E.
Published: November 2023

Multiple relaxation times are used to capture the numerous stress relaxation modes found in bulk polymer melts. Herein, inverse vulcanization is used to synthesize high sulfur content (≥50 wt%) polymers that only need a single relaxation time to describe their stress relaxation. The S-S bonds in these organopolysulfides undergo dissociative bond exchange when exposed to elevated temperatures, making the bond exchange dominate the stress relaxation. Through the introduction of a dimeric norbornadiene crosslinker that improves thermomechanical properties, we show that it is possible for the Maxwell model of viscoelasticity to describe both dissociative covalent adaptable networks and living polymers, which is one of the few experimental realizations of a Maxwellian material. Rheological master curves utilizing time-temperature superposition were constructed using relaxation times as nonarbitrary horizontal shift factors. Despite advances in inverse vulcanization, this is the first complete characterization of the rheological properties of this class of unique polymeric material.
Brain-to-gut trafficking of alpha-synuclein by CD11c+ cells in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: McFleder Rhonda L. , Makhotkina Anastasiia , Groh Janos , Keber Ursula , Imdahl Fabian , Peña Mosca Josefina , Peteranderl Alina , Wu Jingjing , Tabuchi Sawako , Hoffmann Jan , Karl Ann-Kathrin , Pagenstecher Axel , Vogel Jörg , Beilhack Andreas , Koprich James B. , Brotchie Jonathan M. , Saliba Antoine-Emmanuel , Volkmann Jens , Ip Chi Wang
Published: November 2023

Inflammation in the brain and gut is a critical component of several neurological diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease (PD). One trigger of the immune system in PD is aggregation of the pre-synaptic protein, α-synuclein (αSyn). Understanding the mechanism of propagation of αSyn aggregates is essential to developing disease-modifying therapeutics. Using a brain-first mouse model of PD, we demonstrate αSyn trafficking from the brain to the ileum of male mice. Immunohistochemistry revealed that the ileal αSyn aggregations are contained within CD11c+ cells. Using single-cell RNA sequencing, we demonstrate that ileal CD11c+ cells are microglia-like and the same subtype of cells is activated in the brain and ileum of PD mice. Moreover, by utilizing mice expressing the photo-convertible protein, Dendra2, we show that CD11c+ cells traffic from the brain to the ileum. Together these data provide a mechanism of αSyn trafficking between the brain and gut.
Bringing uncertainty quantification to the extreme-edge with memristor-based Bayesian neural networks
Authors: Bonnet Djohan , Hirtzlin Tifenn , Majumdar Atreya , Dalgaty Thomas , Esmanhotto Eduardo , Meli Valentina , Castellani Niccolo , Martin Simon , Nodin Jean-François , Bourgeois Guillaume , Portal Jean-Michel , Querlioz Damien , Vianello Elisa
Published: November 2023

Safety-critical sensory applications, like medical diagnosis, demand accurate decisions from limited, noisy data. Bayesian neural networks excel at such tasks, offering predictive uncertainty assessment. However, because of their probabilistic nature, they are computationally intensive. An innovative solution utilizes memristors’ inherent probabilistic nature to implement Bayesian neural networks. However, when using memristors, statistical effects follow the laws of device physics, whereas in Bayesian neural networks, those effects can take arbitrary shapes. This work overcome this difficulty by adopting a variational inference training augmented by a “technological loss”, incorporating memristor physics. This technique enabled programming a Bayesian neural network on 75 crossbar arrays of 1,024 memristors, incorporating CMOS periphery for in-memory computing. The experimental neural network classified heartbeats with high accuracy, and estimated the certainty of its predictions. The results reveal orders-of-magnitude improvement in inference energy efficiency compared to a microcontroller or an embedded graphics processing unit performing the same task.
Frequent marine heatwaves hidden below the surface of the global ocean
Authors: Sun Di , Li Furong , Jing Zhao , Hu Shijian , Zhang Bohai
Published: November 2023

Marine heatwaves are extreme warm water events that can cause devastating impacts on ecosystems and have complex socio-economic ramifications. Surface signals and drivers of marine heatwaves have been extensively investigated based on satellite observations, whereas their vertical structure in the global ocean remains unclear. In this study, we identify marine heatwave events in the epipelagic zone (0–200 m) using a four-dimensional spatio-temporal framework based on three ocean reanalysis datasets. We find that only about half of the marine heatwave events have continuous surface signals during their life cycles and around one-third always reside in the subsurface ocean without any imprint on sea surface temperature. The annual number of these subsurface marine heatwave events shows a significant increase in response to subsurface mean-state warming during the past three decades. Our findings reveal the limitation of identifying marine heatwaves solely based on the sea surface temperature and underscore the necessity of subsurface observations for monitoring marine heatwaves.
Multi-ancestry genome-wide association study of cannabis use disorder yields insight into disease biology and public health implications
Authors: Levey Daniel F. , Galimberti Marco , Deak Joseph D. , Wendt Frank R. , Bhattacharya Arjun , Koller Dora , Harrington Kelly M. , Quaden Rachel , Johnson Emma C. , Gupta Priya , Biradar Mahantesh , Lam Max , Cooke Megan , Rajagopal Veera M. , Empke Stefany L. L. , Zhou Hang , Nunez Yaira Z. , Kranzler Henry R. , Edenberg Howard J. , Agrawal Arpana , Smoller Jordan W. , Lencz Todd , Hougaard David M. , Børglum Anders D. , Demontis Ditte ,   Veterans Affairs Million Veteran Program, Gaziano J. Michael , Gandal Michael J. , Polimanti Renato , Stein Murray B. , Gelernter Joel
Published: November 2023

As recreational use of cannabis is being decriminalized in many places and medical use widely sanctioned, there are growing concerns about increases in cannabis use disorder (CanUD), which is associated with numerous medical comorbidities. Here we performed a genome-wide association study of CanUD in the Million Veteran Program (MVP), followed by meta-analysis in 1,054,365 individuals (ncases = 64,314) from four broad ancestries designated by the reference panel used for assignment (European n = 886,025, African n = 123,208, admixed American n = 38,289 and East Asian n = 6,843). Population-specific methods were applied to calculate single nucleotide polymorphism-based heritability within each ancestry. Statistically significant single nucleotide polymorphism-based heritability for CanUD was observed in all but the smallest population (East Asian). We discovered genome-wide significant loci unique to each ancestry: 22 in European, 2 each in African and East Asian, and 1 in admixed American ancestries. A genetically informed causal relationship analysis indicated a possible effect of genetic liability for CanUD on lung cancer risk, suggesting potential unanticipated future medical and psychiatric public health consequences that require further study to disentangle from other known risk factors such as cigarette smoking.
Comparison of percutaneous vertebroplasty and conservative treatment for one level thoracolumbar osteoporotic compression fracture in a 3-year study
Authors: Xie Yanchun , Gu Hongwen , Wei Yongcun , Xuan Anwu , Yu Hailong
Published: November 2023

The efficacy of Mesh optimized versus standard percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. Grid optimization (102 cases; 38 men, 64 women aged 67.3 ± 8.5) and traditional PVP groups (94 cases) were identified from 196 PVP patients treated from May 2016 to 2019. The optimal puncture site and angle forced bone cement into both groups before surgery. The main indexes were operation time, X-ray fluoroscopy times, bone cement injection volume, leakage, VAS, and injured vertebrae height. Preoperative general data were equivalent between groups (P > 0.05). All patients survived surgery without spinal cord injury, incision infection, pulmonary embolism, or death. The mesh optimization group had improved operation time (34.8 ± 6.5 min), fluoroscopy times (29.5 ± 5.5), bone cement injection volume (5.3 ± 2.1 ml), and bone cement permeability greater (3.9 percent; 4/98) than the standard PVP group (P < 0.05). Similarly, the grid optimization group had superior VAS scores (1.1 ± 0.6; 1.0 ± 0.3; and 0.9 ± 0.2) than the standard PVP group at 3 days, 3 months, and the last follow-up visit (P < 0.05). On day three after surgery, both had similar heights of injured vertebra's anterior and middle edges (P > 0.05). However, in the mesh optimization group, measurements improved to 1.8 ± 0.4 mm and (1.8 ± 0.3) mm by month three and to 1.7 ± 0.3 mm at last follow-up (P < 0.05). Mesh-optimized PVP with a mesh locator treats osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures more safely and effectively than regular PVP.
Phonon-mediated superconductivity in $${\text{Mg}}_{{1 - x}} {\text{Mo}}_{x} {\text{B}}_{2}$$ compounds: a crystal prediction via cluster expansion and particle-swarm optimization
Authors: Tsuppayakorn-aek Prutthipong , Luo Wei , Ahuja Rajeev , Bovornratanaraks Thiti
Published: November 2023

Investigating superconductivity represents one of the most significant phenomena in the field of condensed matter physics. Our simulations aim to elucidate the structures in the metallic state of Mg1−xMoxB2, which is essential for predicting their superconducting properties. By employing a first-principle cluster expansion and particle-swarm optimization, we have predicted the structures of Mg1−xMoxB2 ternary alloys, including Mg0.667Mo0.333B2, Mg0.5Mo0.5B2, and Mg0.333Mo0.667B2, and have determined their thermodynamically stable configurations under both atmospheric and high-pressure conditions. To investigate the potential for superconductivity in these structures, we have conducted a detailed examination of electronic properties that are pertinent to determining the superconducting state. Regarding superconducting properties, Mg0.333Mo0.667B2 exhibits superconductivity with a critical temperature (Tc) of 7.4 K at ambient pressure. These findings suggest that the theoretically predicted structures in Mg/Mo-substituted metal borides could play a significant role in synthesis and offer valuable insights into superconducting materials.
Complete mitochondrial genome analyses confirm that bat Polychromophilus and ungulate Plasmodium constitute a distinct clade independent of other Plasmodium species
Authors: Poofery Juthathip , Ngamprasertwong Thongchai , Narapakdeesakul Duriyang , Arnuphapprasert Apinya , Nugraheni Yudhi Ratna , Thanee Suchansa , Asada Masahito , Kaneko Osamu , Kaewthamasorn Morakot
Published: November 2023

In recent phylogenetic studies, bat Polychromophilus and ungulate Plasmodium, two relatively understudied haemosporidian parasites within the Apicomplexa phylum, have often been overlooked. Instead, the focus has been primarily on haemosporidian parasites in primates, rodents, and birds. Several phylogenetic analyses of bat Polychromophilus have relied on limited datasets and short informative DNA sequences. As a result of these inherent limitations, the substantiation of their evolutionary stance has encountered a diminished degree of robust validation. This study successfully obtained complete mitochondrial genome sequences from 11 Polychromophilus parasites originating from Hipposideros gentilis and Myotis siligoensis bats for the first time. Additionally, the authors have sequenced the apicoplast caseinolytic protease C genes from Polychromophilus murinus and a potentially new Polychromophilus species. These mitochondrial genomes range in length from 5994 to 6001 bp and consist of three protein-coding genes (PCGs), seven small subunit ribosomal RNA genes (SSU rRNA), 12 large subunit ribosomal RNA genes (LSU rRNA), and seven miscellaneous RNA genes. Phylogenetic analyses using Bayesian Inference and Maximum Likelihood methods indicated robust support for the grouping of ungulate Plasmodium and bat Polychromophilus in a single clade separate from other Plasmodium spp., confirming previous reports, albeit with stronger evidence in this study. The divergence between Polychromophilus in bats and Plasmodium in ungulates occurred approximately 29.61 to 55.77 million years ago (Mya), with a node age estimated at 40.63 Mya. These findings highlight that the genus Plasmodium, which includes species found in ungulates, birds, reptiles, and other mammals, does not form a monophyletic group. By incorporating Polychromophilus in bats and Plasmodium in ungulates, this study contributes significantly to understanding the phylogenetic relationships within the Haemosporida order. It provides valuable insights into the evolutionary history and interconnections among these diverse parasites, thereby expanding knowledge in this field.
Numerical analysis of 40 MW HTS motor electromagnetic characteristics for ship electric propulsion
Authors: Bo Kai , Chen Junquan , Jiang Yapeng , Wang Dong
Published: November 2023

In recent years, with the development of ship electric propulsion system, High Temperature Superconducting (HTS) motors have gained attention as a promising potential resolution due to their high-power density and the progression of cryogenic refrigeration technology. We present an electromagnetic characteristics numerical analysis of 40 MW, 120 rpm, HTS synchronous motor which is a semi-superconducting motor: in fact, it has a superconducting rotor composed of YBCO material and a conventional stator. Combining electric resistivity variation of rotor copper shielding sleeve in low temperature environment and YBCO coil critical current, the electromagnetic behavior of the 40 MW HTS synchronous motor is analyzed with non-ferromagnetic stator support structure. To assess the effects of varying stator winding currents and thickness on eddy current losses of the copper shielding sleeve, calculations were done, and a preliminary discussion was initiated. This study has certain reference significance for electromagnetic design and optimization of multi-ten MW HTS motors, especially used in ship electric propulsion system.
Development of a proteomic signature associated with severe disease for patients with COVID-19 using data from 5 multicenter, randomized, controlled, and prospective studies
Authors: Castro-Pearson Sandra , Samorodnitsky Sarah , Yang Kaifeng , Lotfi-Emran Sahar , Ingraham Nicholas E. , Bramante Carolyn , Jones Emma K. , Greising Sarah , Yu Meng , Steffen Brian T. , Svensson Julia , Åhlberg Eric , Österberg Björn , Wacker David , Guan Weihua , Puskarich Michael , Smed-Sörensen Anna , Lusczek Elizabeth , Safo Sandra E. , Tignanelli Christopher J.
Published: November 2023

Significant progress has been made in preventing severe COVID-19 disease through the development of vaccines. However, we still lack a validated baseline predictive biologic signature for the development of more severe disease in both outpatients and inpatients infected with SARS-CoV-2. The objective of this study was to develop and externally validate, via 5 international outpatient and inpatient trials and/or prospective cohort studies, a novel baseline proteomic signature, which predicts the development of moderate or severe (vs mild) disease in patients with COVID-19 from a proteomic analysis of 7000 + proteins. The secondary objective was exploratory, to identify (1) individual baseline protein levels and/or (2) protein level changes within the first 2 weeks of acute infection that are associated with the development of moderate/severe (vs mild) disease. For model development, samples collected from 2 randomized controlled trials were used. Plasma was isolated and the SomaLogic SomaScan platform was used to characterize protein levels for 7301 proteins of interest for all studies. We dichotomized 113 patients as having mild or moderate/severe COVID-19 disease. An elastic net approach was used to develop a predictive proteomic signature. For validation, we applied our signature to data from three independent prospective biomarker studies. We found 4110 proteins measured at baseline that significantly differed between patients with mild COVID-19 and those with moderate/severe COVID-19 after adjusting for multiple hypothesis testing. Baseline protein expression was associated with predicted disease severity with an error rate of 4.7% (AUC = 0.964). We also found that five proteins (Afamin, I-309, NKG2A, PRS57, LIPK) and patient age serve as a signature that separates patients with mild COVID-19 and patients with moderate/severe COVID-19 with an error rate of 1.77% (AUC = 0.9804). This panel was validated using data from 3 external studies with AUCs of 0.764 (Harvard University), 0.696 (University of Colorado), and 0.893 (Karolinska Institutet). In this study we developed and externally validated a baseline COVID-19 proteomic signature associated with disease severity for potential use in both outpatients and inpatients with COVID-19.
Leveraging diverse cell-death patterns to predict the prognosis, immunotherapy and drug sensitivity of clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Xi , Zhang Mingcong , Song Lebin , Wang Shuai , Wei Xiyi , Shao Wenchuan , Song Ninghong
Published: November 2023

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) poses clinical challenges due to its varied prognosis, tumor microenvironment attributes, and responses to immunotherapy. We established a novel Programmed Cell Death-related Signature (PRS) for ccRCC assessment, derived through the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression method. We validated PRS using the E-MTAB-1980 dataset and created PCD-related clusters via non-negative matrix factorization (NMF). Our investigation included an in-depth analysis of immune infiltration scores using various algorithms. Additionally, we integrated data from the Cancer Immunome Atlas (TCIA) for ccRCC immunotherapy insights and leveraged the Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer (GDSC) database to assess drug sensitivity models. We complemented our findings with single-cell sequencing data and employed the Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium (CPTAC) and qRT-PCR to compare gene expression profiles between cancerous and paracancerous tissues. PRS serves as a valuable tool for prognostication, immune characterization, tumor mutation burden estimation, immunotherapy response prediction, and drug sensitivity assessment in ccRCC. We identify five genes with significant roles in cancer promotion and three genes with cancer-suppressive properties, further validated by qRT-PCR and CPTAC analyses, showcasing gene expression differences in ccRCC tissues. Our study introduces an innovative PCD model that amalgamates diverse cell death patterns to provide accurate predictions for clinical outcomes, mutational profiles, and immune characteristics in ccRCC. Our findings hold promise for advancing personalized treatment strategies in ccRCC patients.
Optimal wave reflection as a mechanism for seagrass self-organization
Authors: van de Vijsel Roeland C. , Hernández-García Emilio , Orfila Alejandro , Gomila Damià
Published: November 2023

Ecosystems threatened by climate change can boost their resilience by developing spatial patterns. Spatially regular patterns in wave-exposed seagrass meadows are attributed to self-organization, yet underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Here, we show that these patterns could emerge from feedbacks between wave reflection and seagrass-induced bedform growth. We derive a theoretical model for surface waves propagating over a growing seagrass bed. Wave-induced bed shear stress shapes bedforms which, in turn, trigger wave reflection. Numerical simulations show seagrass pattern development once wave forcing exceeds a critical amplitude. In line with Mediterranean Sea field observations, these patterns have half the wavelength of the forcing waves. Our results raise the hypothesis that pattern formation optimizes the potential of seagrass meadows to reflect wave energy, and a clear direction for future field campaigns. If wave-reflecting pattern formation increases ecosystem resilience under globally intensifying wave climates, these ecosystems may inspire nature-based coastal protection measures.
Unlearned adaptive responses to heterospecific referential alarm calls in two bird species from separate evolutionary lineages
Authors: Ha Jungmoon , Lee Keesan , Yang Eunjeong , Kim Woojoo , Song Hokyung , Hwang Injae , Lee-Cruz Larisa , Park Jinseok , Song Jihyeon , Park Chan-ryul , Lee Wooshin , Jablonski Piotr , Lee Sang-im
Published: November 2023

The interspecific responses to alarm signals may be based on unlearned mechanisms but research is often constrained by the difficulties in differentiating between unlearned and learned responses in natural situations. In a field study of two Paridae species, Parus minor and Sittiparus varius, who originated from a common ancestor 8 million years ago, we found a considerable degree of between-species overlap in acoustic properties of referential snake-alarm calls. Playback of these calls triggered unlearned adaptive fledging behavior in conspecific and heterospecific naive nestlings, suggesting a between-species overlap in the hypothetical unlearned neural templates involved in nestlings’ reactions to alarm calls in both species. This suggests that similar calls and similar unlearned sensitivity might have been present in the common ancestor of the two species, and possibly in the ancestor of the whole family Paridae that originated 10–15 million years ago in Asian regions rich in snakes.
Viral load of SARS-CoV-2 in surgical smoke in minimally invasive and open surgery: a single-center prospective clinical trial
Authors: Cizmic Amila , Eichel Vanessa M. , Weidner Niklas M. , Wise Philipp A. , Müller Felix , Rompen Ingmar F. , Bartenschlager Ralf , Schnitzler Paul , Nickel Felix , Müller-Stich Beat P.
Published: November 2023

At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was assumed that SARS-CoV-2 could be transmitted through surgical smoke generated by electrocauterization. Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) was targeted due to potentially higher concentrations of the SARS-CoV-2 particles in the pneumoperitoneum. Some surgical societies even recommended open surgery instead of MIS to prevent the potential spread of SARS-CoV-2 from the pneumoperitoneum. This study aimed to detect SARS-CoV-2 in surgical smoke during open and MIS. Patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection who underwent open surgery or MIS at Heidelberg University Hospital were included in the study. A control group of patients without SARS-CoV-2 infection undergoing MIS or open surgery was included for comparison. The trial was approved by the Ethics Committee of Heidelberg University Medical School (S-098/2021). The following samples were collected: nasopharyngeal and intraabdominal swabs, blood, urine, surgical smoke, and air samples from the operating room. An SKC BioSampler was used to sample the surgical smoke from the pneumoperitoneum during MIS and the approximate surgical field during open surgery in 15 ml of sterilized phosphate-buffered saline. An RT-PCR test was performed on all collected samples to detect SARS-CoV-2 viral particles. Twelve patients with proven SARS-CoV-2 infection underwent open abdominal surgery. Two SARS-CoV-2-positive patients underwent an MIS procedure. The control group included 24 patients: 12 underwent open surgery and 12 MIS. One intraabdominal swab in a patient with SARS-CoV-2 infection was positive for SARS-CoV-2. However, during both open surgery and MIS, none of the surgical smoke samples showed any detectable viral particles of SARS-CoV-2. The air samples collected at the end of the surgical procedure showed no viral particles of SARS-CoV-2. Major complications (CD ≥ IIIa) were more often observed in SARS-CoV-2 positive patients (10 vs. 4, p = 0.001). This study showed no detectable viral particles of SARS-CoV-2 in surgical smoke sampled during MIS and open surgery. Thus, the discussed risk of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 via surgical smoke could not be confirmed in the present study.
BrachySound: machine learning based assessment of respiratory sounds in dogs
Authors: Oren Ariel , Türkcü Jana D. , Meller Sebastian , Lazebnik Teddy , Wiegel Pia , Mach Rebekka , Volk Holger A. , Zamansky Anna
Published: November 2023

The early and accurate diagnosis of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) in dogs is pivotal for effective treatment and enhanced canine well-being. Owners often do underestimate the severity of BOAS in their dogs. In addition, traditional diagnostic methods, which include pharyngolaryngeal auscultation, are often compromised by subjectivity, are time-intensive and depend on the veterinary surgeon’s experience. Hence, new fast, reliable assessment methods for BOAS are required. The aim of the current study was to use machine learning techniques to bridge this scientific gap. In this study, machine learning models were employed to objectively analyze 366 audio samples from 69 Pugs and 79 other brachycephalic breeds, recorded with an electronic stethoscope during a 15-min standardized exercise test. In classifying the BOAS test results as to whether the dog is affected or not, our models achieved a peak accuracy of 0.85, using subsets from the Pugs dataset. For predictions of the BOAS results from recordings at rest in Pugs and various brachycephalic breeds, accuracies of 0.68 and 0.65 were observed, respectively. Notably, the detection of laryngeal sounds achieved an F1 score of 0.80. These results highlight the potential of machine learning models to significantly streamline the examination process, offering a more objective assessment than traditional methods. This research indicates a turning point towards a data-driven, objective, and efficient approach in canine health assessment, fostering standardized and objective BOAS diagnostics.
The effect of model complexity on the human center of mass estimation using the statically equivalent serial chain technique
Authors: Chebel Elie , Tunc Burcu
Published: November 2023

Estimating the human center of mass (CoM) has long been recognized as a highly complex process. A relatively recent and noteworthy technique for CoM estimation that has gained popularity is the statically equivalent serial chain (SESC). This technique employs a remodeling of the human skeleton as a serial chain where the end effector represents the CoM location. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the impact of model complexity on the estimation capability of the SESC technique. To achieve this, we designed and rigorously assessed four distinct models with varying complexities against the static center of pressure (CoP) as reference, by quantifying both the root-mean-square (RMS) and correlation metrics. In addition, the Bland–Altman analysis was utilized to quantify the agreement between the estimations and reference values. The findings revealed that increasing the model complexity significantly improved CoM estimation quality up to a specific threshold. The maximum observed RMS difference among the models reached 9.85 mm. However, the application and task context should be considered, as less complex models still provided satisfactory estimation performance. In conclusion, the evaluation of model complexity demonstrated its impact on CoM estimation using the SESC technique, providing insights into the trade-off between accuracy and complexity in practical applications.
Behavioral dynamics of conversation, (mis)communication and coordination in noisy environments
Authors: Miles Kelly , Weisser Adam , Kallen Rachel W. , Varlet Manuel , Richardson Michael J. , Buchholz Joerg M.
Published: November 2023

During conversations people coordinate simultaneous channels of verbal and nonverbal information to hear and be heard. But the presence of background noise levels such as those found in cafes and restaurants can be a barrier to conversational success. Here, we used speech and motion-tracking to reveal the reciprocal processes people use to communicate in noisy environments. Conversations between twenty-two pairs of typical-hearing adults were elicited under different conditions of background noise, while standing or sitting around a table. With the onset of background noise, pairs rapidly adjusted their interpersonal distance and speech level, with the degree of initial change dependent on noise level and talker configuration. Following thistransient phase, pairs settled into asustaining phasein which reciprocal speech and movement-based coordination processes synergistically maintained effective communication, again with the magnitude of stability of these coordination processes covarying with noise level and talker configuration. Finally, as communication breakdowns increased at high noise levels, pairs exhibitedresetting behaviorsto help restore communication—decreasing interpersonal distance and/or increasing speech levels in response to communication breakdowns. Approximately 78 dB SPL defined a threshold where behavioral processes were no longer sufficient for maintaining effective conversation and communication breakdowns rapidly increased.
Epidemiology of head injuries in pedestrian-motor vehicle accidents
Authors: Zohrevandi Behzad , Rad Enayatollah Homaie , Kouchakinejad-Eramsadati Leila , Imani Ghazaleh , Pourheravi Iman , Khodadadi-Hassankiadeh Naema
Published: November 2023

Despite efforts of many countries to improve pedestrian safety, international reports show an upward trend in pedestrian-motor vehicle accidents. Although the most common cause of death of pedestrians is head injuries, there is a lack of knowledge on the epidemiology and characteristics of head injury in terms of the Glasgow Outcome Scale to be used for prevention. However, this study aimed to determine the epidemiology of pedestrian-motor vehicle accidents, the characteristics of head injury, and differences in the Glasgow Outcome Scale in terms of gender. In this retrospective analytical study, the data of 917 eligible injured pedestrians were obtained from the two databases of the Trauma System and the Hospital Information System. The data were analyzed using SPSS software (Version 21). The mean age of all 917 injured pedestrians was 47.55 ± 19.47 years. Most of the injured pedestrians (42.10%) were in the age range of 41–69 years and 81.31% were male. Moreover, 83.07% did not have any acute lesions on the CT scan. The most common brain lesion was brain contusion (n = 33, 3.60%), subarachnoid hemorrhage (n = 33, 3.60%), and skull fracture (n = 29, 3.16%). Among all concurrent injuries, lower extremity/pelvic injuries were observed in 216 patients (23.56%). Outpatient treatment (n = 782, 85.27%), airway control/endotracheal intubation (n = 57, 6.22%), and resuscitation (n = 35, 3.82%) were the most applied treatments respectively. There were significant differences in the Glasgow Outcome Scale between men and women (P- value = 0. 012). The high rate of mortalities, disability, head injuries, contusion, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and skull fractures in pedestrians involved in MVAs emphasizes the need for developing and implementing prevention strategies including appropriate management and risk reduction. Male pedestrians were at higher risk of motor vehicle accidents and worse Glasgow Outcome Scale. The presented data identified the main types of pedestrian injuries and suggested the importance of adopting appropriate preventive strategies to achieve the most effective interventions for creating a safer community.
Surrogate-based optimization design for surface texture of helical pair in helical hydraulic rotary actuator
Authors: Liu Song , Li Baoren , Gan Runlin , Xu Yue , yang Gang
Published: November 2023

A good surface texture design can effectively improve the tribological performance of the helical pair within a helical hydraulic rotary actuator(HHRA). However, the optimization design process can be time-consuming due to the multiple design variables involved and the complexity of the mathematical model. This paper proposes a modified efficient global optimization (MEGO) method for solving such demanding surface texture design challenges. The MEGO utilizes a Kriging model with the optimized Latin hypercube sampling (OLHS) for initial sampling and the proposed modified expected improvement (MEI) function for sequential sampling. A comparative study of several global optimization algorithms with the MEGO on the surface texture design is performed. Subsequently, surrogate-based optimization and parameter analysis are carried out, resulting in the identification of an optimal set of texture parameters. The findings reveal the superiority of the MEGO in both model prediction accuracy and refinement of minima. Moreover, compared to the base design, the friction coefficient can be reduced by up to 45.2%.
Recent changes in the upper oceanic water masses over the Indian Ocean using Argo data
Authors: Shee Abhijit , Sil Sourav , Gangopadhyay Avijit
Published: November 2023

Utilizing Argo data from 2003 to 2019, we examine thermohaline changes in the Indian Ocean within the upper 700 m. Widespread warming is observed except in the Southern Indian Ocean. Increasing salinity is obtained over all regions except the Bay of Bengal and Southern Indian Ocean. Thermohaline trends in regional water masses at various depths are first decomposed into spice and heave components, and then linked to processes like pure heave, pure freshening and pure warming. Three consistent patterns across all seven regions are: (1) Below 300 m spice dominates heave; (2) The freshening process within the spice component is the primary driver below 300 m; (3) Spice primarily influences salinity changes along isobars. The warming of Arabian Sea’s Subsurface Minima and the Indian Equatorial Water are primarily dictated by spice and heave, respectively. Freshening of the Bay of Bengal Water is linked to heave changes under pure freshening and pure heave processes. In the upper 250 m of the western equatorial, southern Indian Ocean, and Seychelles–Chagos Thermocline Ridge, salinity rises due to spice under pure freshening. The southern Indian Ocean’s advected mode water shows freshening and cooling trends due to pure freshening.
Klotho inhibits IGF1R/PI3K/AKT signalling pathway and protects the heart from oxidative stress during ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Olejnik Agnieszka , Radajewska Anna , Krzywonos-Zawadzka Anna , Bil-Lula Iwona
Published: November 2023

Ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) of the heart involves the activation of oxidative and proapoptotic pathways. Simultaneously Klotho protein presents anti-aging, antiapoptotic and antioxidative properties. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of Klotho protein on oxidative stress in hearts subjected to IRI. Isolated rat hearts perfused with the Langendorff method were subjected to ischemia, followed by reperfusion, in the presence or absence of recombinant rat Klotho protein. The factors involved in the activation of insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF1R)/phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) signalling pathway were evaluated. IRI caused activation of the IGF1R (p = 0.0122)/PI3K (p = 0.0022) signalling, as compared to the aerobic control group. Infusion supply of Klotho protein during IRI significantly reduced the level of phospho-IGF1R (p = 0.0436), PI3K (p = 0.0218) and phospho-AKT (p = 0.0020). Transcriptional activity of forkhead box protein O3 (FOXO3) was reduced (p = 0.0207) in hearts subjected to IRI, compared to aerobic control. Administration of Klotho decreased phosphorylation of FOXO3 (p = 0.0355), and enhanced activity of glutathione peroxidase (p = 0.0452) and superoxide dismutase (p = 0.0060) in IRI + Klotho group. The levels of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) (p = 0.0480) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) (p = 0.0460), and heart injury (p = 0.0005) were significantly increased in hearts from the IRI group in comparison to the aerobic group. Klotho reduced NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) (p = 0.0390), ROS/RNS (p = 0.0435) and H2O2 (p = 0.0392) levels, and heart damage (p = 0.0286) in the hearts subjected to IRI. In conclusion, Klotho contributed to the protection of the heart against IRI and oxidative stress via inhibition of the IGF1R/PI3K/AKT pathway, thus can be recognized as a novel cardiopreventive/cardioprotective agent.
Electrodeposited reduced graphene oxide-PEDOT:PSS/Nafion hybrid interface for the simultaneous determination of dopamine and serotonin
Authors: Ko Seung Hyeon , Kim Seung Wook , Lee Soo Hyun , Lee Yi Jae
Published: November 2023

The electrochemically deposited reduced graphene oxide-PEDOT:PSS/Nafion (rGO-PP/NF) hybrid material has provided a favorable interface for the simultaneous detection of dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT). The rGO-PP/NF onto the Au seed layer of the flexible substrate was simple, and it was followed by the sequential electrophoretic deposition of GO, reduction at the optimal pH buffer media, electropolymerization of EDOT:PSS, and Nafion coating. The strong electron-transport capacity between rGO-PEDOT:PSS and the negatively charged Nafion matrix might allow the highly sensitive, simultaneous, and selective detection of DA and 5-HT due to its high affinity for cations. In the results of the electrochemical response, well-separated oxidation peaks were observed in a mixture that contained various concentrations of DA and 5-HT. It showed the dynamic sensing of DA and 5-HT in the ranges of 0.5–75 μM and 0.05–50 μM, respectively, and the detection limits of 0.17 and 0.16 μM, respectively. In the mixture of DA and 5-HT, the sensor had a detection limit of 0.1 μM for 5-HT and DA, and its sensitivities of DA and 5-HT were 99.3 and 86 µA/µMcm2. Furthermore, it demonstrated high selectivity, reproducibility, stability, and a recovery property in the human serum spike test that was good enough for the practical use.
Novel nomogram for predicting paradoxical chest wall movement in patients with flail segment of traumatic rib fracture: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Seok Junepill , Jeong Soon Tak , Yoon Su Young , Lee Jin Young , Kim Seheon , Cho Hyunmin , Kang Wu Seong
Published: November 2023

Flail chest is a severe injury to the chest wall and is related to adverse outcomes. A flail chest is classified as the physiologic, paradoxical motion of a chest wall or flail segment of rib fracture (RFX). We hypothesized that patients with paradoxical chest wall movement would present different clinical features from patients with a flail segment. This retrospective observational study included patients with blunt chest trauma who visited our level 1 trauma center between January 2019 and October 2022 and were diagnosed with one or more flail segments by computed tomography. The primary outcome of our study was a clinically diagnosed visible, paradoxical chest wall motion. We used the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression model to minimize overfitting. After a feature selection using the LASSO regression model, we constructed a multivariable logistic regression (MLR) model and nomogram. A total of five risk factors were selected in the LASSO model and applied to the multivariable logistic regression model. Of these, four risk factors were statistically significant: the total number of RFX (adjusted OR [aOR], 1.28; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09–1.49;p = 0.002), number of segmental RFX including Grade III fractures (aOR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.14–2.79;p = 0.012), laterally located primary fracture lines (aOR, 4.00; 95% CI, 1.69–9.43;p = 0.002), and anterior–lateral flail segments (aOR, 4.20; 95% CI, 1.60–10.99;p = 0.004). We constructed a nomogram to predict the personalized probability of the flail motion. A novel nomogram was developed in patients with flail segments of traumatic RFX to predict paradoxical chest wall motion. The number of RFX, Grade III segmental RFX, and the location of the RFX were significant risk factors.
Update from a cohort study for birth defects in Hunan Province, China, 2010–2020
Authors: Zhou Xu , Cai Shenglan , Wang Hua , Fang Junqun , Gao Jie , Kuang Haiyan , Xie Donghua , He Jian , Wang Aihua
Published: November 2023

To define the relationship between sex, residence, maternal age, and a broad range of birth defects by conducting a comprehensive cross-analysis based on up-to-date data. Data were obtained from the Birth Defects Surveillance System in Hunan Province, China, 2010–2020. Prevalences of birth defects (number of cases per 10,000 fetuses (births and deaths at 28 weeks of gestation and beyond)) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated by sex, residence, maternal age, year, and 23 specific defects. Cross-analysis of sex, residence, and maternal age was conducted, and crude odds ratios (ORs) were calculated to examine the association of each maternal characteristic with birth defects. A total of 1,619,376 fetuses and 30,596 birth defects were identified. The prevalence of birth defects was 188.94/10,000 (95% CI 186.82–191.05). Birth defects were more frequent in males than females (210.46 vs. 163.03/10,000, OR = 1.30, 95% CI 1.27–1.33), in urban areas than in rural areas (223.61 vs. 162.90/10,000, OR = 1.38, 95% CI 1.35–1.41), and in mothers ≥ 35 than mothers 25–29 (206.35 vs. 187.79/10,000, OR = 1.10, 95% CI 1.06–1.14). Cross-analysis showed that the prevalence of birth defects was higher in urban females than in rural males (194.53 vs. 182.25/10,000), the difference in prevalence between males and females was more significant for maternal age < 20 compared to other age groups (OR = 1.64, 95% CI 1.37–1.95), and the prevalence difference between urban and rural areas is more significant for maternal age 25–34 compared to other age groups (OR = 1.49, 95% CI 1.43–1.57). Cleft palates were more frequent in males, and nine specific defects were more frequent in females. Five specific defects were more frequent in rural areas, and eight were more frequent in urban areas. Compared to mothers 25–29, five specific defects were more frequent in mothers < 20, seven specific defects were more frequent in mothers 20–24, two specific defects were more frequent in mothers 30–34, and ten specific defects were more frequent in mothers ≥ 35. Our data indicate that sex, residence, and maternal age differences in the prevalences of birth defects and most specific defects are common. We have found some new epidemiological characteristics of birth defects using cross-analysis, such as residence is the determining factor for the prevalence of birth defects, the difference in prevalence between males and females was more significant for maternal age < 20 compared to other age groups, the prevalence difference between urban and rural areas is more significant for maternal age 25–34 compared to other age groups. And differences in the epidemiological characteristics of some specific defects from previous studies. Future studies should examine mechanisms. Our findings contributed to clinical counseling and advancing research on the risk factors for birth defects.
A simulation study on enhancing sterilization efficiency in medical plastics through gamma radiation optimization
Authors: Yuan Xin , Liu Fang , Zhou Hongchi , Liu Bin , Li Guanda , Yan Peiguang , Li Guoping , Luo Xiaoru , Lyu Xuefeng , Cheng Jinxing , Niu Fenglei
Published: November 2023

Gamma radiation is progressively emerging as an effective method to enhance the sterilization efficiency of medical plastics including Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The parameters of the radiation facility will affect the efficiency of radiation sterilization. To investigate these effects, we simulate the gamma radiation sterilization performance of PVC material sample using Monte Carlo Method. The simulation results indicated that compared with the sterilization time of 20–90 min from high-temperature steam sterilization of medical waste, by optimizing the parameters of the model radiation facility, the radiation sterilization time can be reduced to 6.61 min. The optimized model facility parameters are as follows: the gamma photon energy is 1.25 MeV, the model space is 300 × 300 × 300 cm3, the reflective layer material is concrete and its thickness is 8 cm, the PVC sample layer area is 100 × 100 cm2, the distance between the radiation source and the PVC sample layer is 150 cm, the energy deposition in the bottom layer of the PVC sample layer is 1.31315 × 10–6 MeV/g. This study offers a potentially feasible way for PVC sterilization, while also providing a crucial reference for the further promotion and application of radiation sterilization technology.
One-step uniform rotation solvothermal synthesis of a Li3VO4@rGO anode material with superior cycling and rate performance
Authors: Kong Zhihan , Zhu Kongjun , Rao Yu , Liang Penghua , Chen Jiatao , Wang Wei , Zhang Chuanxiang , Liu Jingsong , Yan Kang , Wang Jing
Published: November 2023

For the first time, a uniform rotation solvothermal method and rGO together were used to improve the electrochemical performance of the Li3VO4 anode.
InN nanorod/Ni(OH)2 heterojunction photoelectrode for efficient photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Wu Mengzhou , Wu Haoyang , Xie Shaohua , Wang Wenliang , Li Guoqiang
Published: November 2023

Adjusting the size of Ni(OH)2 cluster particles, effectively suppresses the surface states of InN nanorods and provides multiple active site for the surface reaction, improving the PEC performance of the photoelectrode.
Destructive quantum interference in meta-oligo(phenyleneethynylene) molecular wires with gold–graphene heterojunctions
Authors: Fan Yinqi , Tao Shuhui , Pitié Sylvain , Liu Chenguang , Zhao Chun , Seydou Mahamadou , Dappe Yannick J. , Low Paul J. , Nichols Richard J. , Yang Li
Published: November 2023

Quantum interference effects on molecular conductance can be regulated by changing anchoring groups and electrode materials.
Resveratrol glucosylation by GTF-SI from Streptococcus mutans: computational insights into a GH70 family enzyme
Authors: Febres-Molina Camilo , Prat-Resina Xavier , Jaña Gonzalo A.
Published: November 2023

Monoglucosylation of resveratrol by GTF-SI, detailing the transition state with critical distances and an 8.8 kcal mol−1 activation barrier.
Simultaneous detection of neurotransmitters and Cu2+ using double-bore carbon fiber microelectrodes via fast-scan cyclic voltammetry
Authors: Manring Noel , Strini Miriam , Smeltz Jessica L. , Pathirathna Pavithra
Published: November 2023

There is a great demand to develop an analytical tool capable of simultaneous detection of multi neurotransmitters and other environmental factors to broaden our understanding of the multifactorial complex etiology of neurodegenerative diseases.
The phenomenon of “dead” metal in heterogeneous catalysis: opportunities for increasing the efficiency of carbon-supported metal catalysts
Authors: Mironenko Roman M. , Eremin Dmitry B. , Ananikov Valentine P.
Published: November 2023

The key factors contributing to the formation of “dead” metal – the fraction of metal in supported catalysts that remains inaccessible to reactants – are examined. Strategies to minimize the formation of “dead” metal are analyzed.
Janus-type ionic conductive gels based on poly(N,N-dimethyl)acrylamide for strain/pressure sensors
Authors: Zhou Chuanjiang , Yu Yijia , Xia Wenjuan , Liu Shengjie , Song Xiao , Wu Zhaoqiang , Chen Hong
Published: November 2023

A Janus-type ionic conductive gel with one-sided adhesion, high mechanical properties and antibacterial performance was successfully prepared through “one-step” UV irradiation polymerization for strain and stress sensors.