bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OF2 # mit sekundärer Sinterung – konservative/operative Therapie
Authors: Herren Christian
Published: February 2024

Die osteoporotische Sinterungsfraktur an der Wirbelsäule stellt die häufigste Frakturform der osteoporotischen Frakturen dar. Aufgrund der demographischen Entwicklung und der mittlerweile sehr hohen Lebenserwartung der geriatrischen Patienten steigt auch die Inzidenz der osteoporotischen Wirbelkörperfrakturen. Basierend auf der Klassifikation der osteoporotischen Frakturen werden fünf unterschiedliche Subgruppen anhand ihrer Morphologie unterschieden. Die OF-Typ 2 Frakturen werden hierbei als kyphotische Deformation mit geringer Hinterwandbeteiligung (<1/5) definiert. Für die Behandlung der osteoporotischen Wirbelkörperfrakturen haben sich mittlerweile unterschiedliche Therapiekonzepte etabliert, die sich jedoch zum Teil deutlich von den Behandlungsstrategien beim jüngeren Patienten unterscheiden. Basis ist hierbei die zu Grunde liegende Osteoporose neben der Frakturbehandlung adäquat zu therapieren. Konservative und operative Therapieansätze können anhand von Behandlungsempfehlungen abgeleitet werden, jedoch fehlen aktuell hochwertige Fallkontrollstudien oder Leitlinien, so dass die Behandlung der osteoporotischen Sinterungsfrakturen häufig auf Expertenmeinungen und Einzelfallentscheidungen basiert.
Change Management für Individuen – ein fiktives Interview mit Prof. Nina Kentucky
Authors: Seemann Ricarda
Published: February 2024

Meine fiktive Gesprächspartnerin Prof. Nina Kentucky1 hat einen fiktiven Beruf: sie ist selbstständige Personal Change Managerin und
begleitet Orthopäd_innen und Unfallchirurg_innen als erfahrene Expertin bei einschneidenden
Veränderungen in Berufs- und Privatleben. Unser Gespräch spiegelt verschiedenste Erfahrungen
aus dem engeren und weiteren Bekanntenkreis wider – und zu einem kleinen Teil vielleicht auch
meine eigenen Erlebnisse. Zur besseren Lesbarkeit wird bei Personenbezeichnungen vornehmlich
das generische Maskulinum verwendet, dies gilt im Sinne der Gleichbehandlung grundsätzlich für
alle Geschlechter.
Dekubitusprophylaxe bei Kindern: die Braden-QD-Skala
Authors: Bauernfeind Lydia
Published: February 2024

Um festzustellen, ob bei einem Patienten das Risiko eines Dekubitus besteht, dient die für die Pädiatrie angepasste Braden-Q-Skala als hilfreiches Assessmentinstrument. Bei diesem Instrument fehlte jedoch bisher unter anderem die Berücksichtigung von medizinischen Geräten als Ursache für Druckverletzungen, was in der Erweiterung zur Braden-QD-Skala nachgeholt wurde. Diese liegt nun in der deutschen Fassung vor, die wir hier vorstellen.
Synthesis of (5-Iminio-4,5-dihydro-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)tetrazol-1-ide: A Zwitterionic Compound Containing a Tetrazole Anion as a Promising Blunt Energetic Material
Authors: Liu Yaxin , Lv Meifang , Zhang Guofeng , Ye Zhiwen
Published: February 2024

(5-Iminio-4,5-dihydro-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)tetrazol-1-ide is the first zwitterionic energetic material containing tetrazole as an anion and 1,3,4 oxadiazole as a cation. Its low mechanical sensitivity (IS >40 J, FS >360 N) and high gas volume after detonation at standard temperature and pressure (767.0 dm3/kg) make it a prime example of a novel type of blunt energetic material with promising applications.
Inflammasome-Independent Mechanism of NLRP3 is Critical for Platelet GPIb-IX Function and Thrombosis
Authors: Chen Xiaoyan , Li Jingke , Liu Pu , Zhou Yangfan , Zhang Tongtong , Li Li , Shi Jingqi , Deng Xin , Sheng Yilin , Chen Wei , Wang Di , Hu Hu
Published: February 2024

Introduction Platelets link thrombosis and inflammation, but how platelets handle the endogenous intraplatelet inflammatory machinery is less well understood. NACHT, LRR, and PYD domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) is the central component of the interleukin (IL)-1-producing inflammasome. Elucidating the cell type-specific mechanism of NLRP3 in platelets may improve our understanding of thrombotic diseases.

Methods Ferric chloride-induced mesenteric arteriole thrombosis models, tail bleeding models, and microfluidic whole-blood perfusion were used to study thrombosis and hemostasis. Additionally, we utilized aggregometry, flow cytometry, immunoprecipitation, and western blotting to investigate glycoprotein (GP)Ib-IX-mediated platelet function and signaling.

Results NLRP3−/− mice exhibited severely impaired thrombosis and hemostasis, whereas apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC)−/−, caspase-1−/−, and Nlrp3
A350V/+
CrePF4 mice did not exhibit such changes. NLRP3−/− platelets exhibited reduced adhesion to injured vessel walls and collagen and impaired von Willebrand factor (vWF)-dependent translocation and rolling behavior. NLRP3 deficiency decreased botrocetin-induced platelet aggregation and the phosphorylation of key signaling molecules in the GPIb-IX pathway. Mechanistically, decreased cAMP/PKA activity led to reduced phosphorylation of NLRP3, thereby enabling the interaction between NLRP3 and filamin A. This interaction accelerated the dissociation of filamin A from GPIbα, which allowed a 14–3-3ζ-dependent increase in GPIb-IX affinity to vWF. Finally, platelet NLRP3 was found to largely regulate thrombotic disease models, such as models of stroke and deep vein thrombosis.

Conclusion NLRP3 promoted the function of the major platelet adhesion receptor GPIb-IX without involving NLRP3 inflammasome assembly or IL-1β production.
Clavicle Fracture Site Surgical Contouring: A Case Report
Authors: Cavaliere Annachiara , Cepparulo Vincenzo , Pezone Giuseppe , Schonauer Fabrizio
Published: February 2024

Clavicle fractures are frequent injuries accounting for approximately 4% of all fractures in adults with about 35% occurring in the shoulder region among which midshaft fractures are the most common (>66%). Nonsurgical management is the treatment of choice for most clavicle fractures; however, poor functional and aesthetic outcomes may result from nonunion, symptomatic malunion, and aesthetic impairment which are the most common complications. A young woman was referred to our clinic for a “Step Deformity” resulting after primary, nonsurgical treatment of a midshaft clavicle fracture. Residual deformity was corrected with a novel simple and little invasive approach. Midshaft clavicle fractures typically only require conservative nonsurgical treatment, nevertheless suboptimal outcomes may occur. Selective osteotomies and fixation are deemed too invasive when only cosmetic impairment of the clavicle contour is present without any functional or sensitive damage and most patients are discouraged from undergoing surgery. Thus far, no specific focus on this topic, nor exploration of possible correction can be found in the published literature. These residual deformities may be very noticeable sometimes and cause psychological distress and social life impairment. Despite no related functional impairment, this deformity should still be addressed, to improve patients' quality of life.
Anti-MAG neuropathy: historical aspects, clinical-pathological correlations, and considerations for future therapeutical trials
Authors: Latov Norman , Brannagan Thomas H. , Sander Howard W. , Gondim Francisco de Assis Aquino
Published: February 2024

Background Patients with anti-MAG neuropathy present with distal demyelinating polyneuropathy, IgM monoclonal gammopathy, and elevated titers of anti-MAG antibodies.

Objective This paper reviews what is known about the clinical presentation, course, pathophysiology, and treatment of anti-MAG neuropathy, with considerations for the design of therapeutic trials.

Methods A literature review of the medical and scientific literature related to anti-MAG neuropathy, and the design of therapeutic clinical trials in peripheral neuropathy.

Results Anti-MAG neuropathy can remain indolent for many years but then enter a progressive phase. Highly elevated antibody titers are diagnostic, but intermediate titers can also occur in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). The peripheral nerves can become inexcitable, thereby masking the demyelinating abnormalities. There is good evidence that the anti-MAG antibodies cause neuropathy. Reduction of the autoantibody concentration by agents that target B-cells was reported to result in clinical improvement in case series and uncontrolled trials, but not in controlled clinical trials, probably due to inadequate trial design.

Conclusion We propose that therapeutic trials for anti-MAG neuropathy include patients with the typical presentation, some degree of weakness, highly elevated anti-MAG antibody titers, and at least one nerve exhibiting demyelinating range abnormalities. Treatment with one or a combination of anti-B-cell agents would aim at reducing the autoantibody concentration by at least 60%. A trial duration of 2 years may be required to show efficacy. The neuropathy impairment score of the lower extremities (NIS-LL) plus the Lower Limb Function (LLF) score would be a suitable primary outcome measure.
Gene-based therapies for neuromuscular disorders
Authors: Zanoteli Edmar , França Marcondes Cavalcante , Marques Wilson
Published: February 2024

Neuromuscular diseases (NMD) include a broad group of medical conditions with both acquired and genetic causes. In recent years, important advances have been made in the treatment of genetically caused NMD, and most of these advances are due to the implementation of therapies aimed at gene regulation. Among these therapies, gene replacement, small interfering RNA (siRNA), and antisense antinucleotides are the most promising approaches. More importantly, some of these therapies have already gained regulatory approval or are in the final stages of approval. The review focuses on motor neuron diseases, neuropathies, and Duchenne muscular dystrophy, summarizing the most recent developments in gene-based therapies for these conditions.
The clinical diagnosis of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Munhoz Renato P. , Tumas Vitor , Pedroso José Luiz , Silveira-Moriyama Laura
Published: February 2024

After more than 200 years since its initial description, the clinical diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (PD) remains an often-challenging endeavor, with broad implications that are fundamental for clinical management. Despite major developments in understanding it's pathogenesis, pathological landmarks, non-motor features and potential paraclinical clues, the most accepted diagnostic criteria remain solidly based on a combination of clinical signs. Here, we review this process, discussing its history, clinical criteria, differential diagnoses, ancillary diagnostic testing, and the role of non-motor and pre-motor signs and symptoms.
Homocysteine serum levels in patients with ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms: a case-control study
Authors: Mota Telles João Paulo , Rosi Junior Jefferson , Yamaki Vitor Nagai , Rabelo Nicollas Nunes , Teixeira Manoel Jacobsen , Figueiredo Eberval Gadelha
Published: February 2024

Background There is very few data regarding homocysteine's influence on the formation and rupture of intracranial aneurysms.

Objective To compare homocysteine levels between patients with ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms, and to evaluate possible influences of this molecule on vasospasm and functional outcomes.

Methods This is a retrospective, case-control study. We evaluated homocysteinemia differences between patients with ruptured and unruptured aneurysms; and the association of homocysteine levels with vasospasm and functional outcomes. Logistic regressions were performed.

Results A total of 348 participants were included: 114 (32.8%) with previous aneurysm rupture and 234 (67.2%) with unruptured aneurysms. Median homocysteine was 10.75µmol/L (IQR = 4.59) in patients with ruptured aneurysms and 11.5µmol/L (IQR = 5.84) in patients with unruptured aneurysms. No significant association was detected between homocysteine levels and rupture status (OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.96-1.04). Neither mild (>15µmol/L; OR = 1.25, 95% CI 0.32-4.12) nor moderate (>30µmol/L; OR = 1.0, 95% CI = 0.54-1.81) hyperhomocysteinemia demonstrated significant correlations with ruptured aneurysms. Neither univariate (OR = 0.86; 95% CI 0.71-1.0) nor multivariable age-adjusted (OR = 0.91; 95% CI = 0.75-1.05) models evidenced an association between homocysteine levels and vasospasm. Homocysteinemia did not influence excellent functional outcomes at 6 months (mRS≤1) (OR = 1.04; 95% CI = 0.94-1.16).

Conclusion There were no differences regarding homocysteinemia between patients with ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms. In patients with ruptured aneurysms, homocysteinemia was not associated with vasospasm or functional outcomes.
SMR transporters meet the challenge of metformin metabolites
Authors: Short Ben
Published: February 2024

JGP study (Lucero et al. http://www.doi.org/10.1085/jgp.202313464) shows that members of the SMRGdx subtype can export the degradation products of metformin, helping bacteria adapt to high environmental levels of the commonly prescribed diabetes medication.
Exploring the role of large language models in radiation emergency response
Authors: Chandra Anirudh , Chakraborty Abinash
Published: February 2024

In recent times, the field of artificial intelligence (AI) has been transformed by the introduction of large language models (LLMs). These models, popularized by OpenAI’s GPT-3, have demonstrated the emergent capabilities of AI in comprehending and producing text resembling human language, which has helped them transform several industries. But its role has yet to be explored in the nuclear industry, specifically in managing radiation emergencies. The present work explores LLMs’ contextual awareness, natural language interaction, and their capacity to comprehend diverse queries in a radiation emergency response setting. In this study we identify different user types and their specific LLM use-cases in radiation emergencies. Their possible interactions with ChatGPT, a popular LLM, has also been simulated and preliminary results are presented. Drawing on the insights gained from this exercise and to address concerns of reliability and misinformation, this study advocates for expert guided and domain-specific LLMs trained on radiation safety protocols and historical data. This study aims to guide radiation emergency management practitioners and decision-makers in effectively incorporating LLMs into their decision support framework.
Hybrid simulation of instabilities in capacitively coupled RF CF4/Ar plasmas driven by a dual frequency source
Authors: Dong Wan , Zhang Yi-Fan , Schulze Julian , Song Yuan-Hong
Published: February 2024

Instabilities in capacitively coupled Ar/CF4 plasma discharges driven by dual frequency sources are investigated using a one-dimensional fluid/electron Monte Carlo hybrid model. Periodic oscillations of the electron density and temperature on the timescale of multiple low frequency (LF) periods are observed. As the electron density increases, an intense oscillation of the electron temperature within each high frequency (HF) period is initiated. This causes a fluctuation of the electron density and results in a discharge instability. This phenomenon is consistent with the discharge behavior observed in scenarios with single-frequency (SF) sources, as reported by Dong et al (2022 Plasma Sources Sci. Technol.
31 025006). However, unlike the SF case, plasma parameters such as the electron density, electric field, electron power absorption and ionization rate exhibit not only periodic fluctuations but also a spatial asymmetry under the influence of the dual-frequency source. This spatial asymmetry leads to a non-uniform distribution of the electron density between the electrodes, which is related to a spatially asymmetric electric field, electron heating, and ionization around a region of minimum electron density (inside the bulk). This region of minimum electron density is shifted back and forth through the entire plasma bulk from one electrode to the other within multiple LF period. The above phenomena are related to superposition effect between the instabilities and the dual-frequency source. Moreover, the time averaged electric field influences the spatio-temporal evolution of ion fluxes. The ion fluxes at the electrodes, which play an important role in etching processes, are affected by both the high and LF components of the driving voltage waveform as well as the observed instabilities. As the HF increases, the electronegativity and electron temperature are reduced and the electron density increases, resulting in a gradual disappearance of the instabilities.
A hybrid physics/data-driven logic to detect, classify, and predict anomalies and disruptions in tokamak plasmas
Authors: Rossi R. , Gelfusa M. , Craciunescu T. , Wyss I. , Vega J. ,   A. Murari on behalf of JET Contributors
Published: February 2024

Disruptions are abrupt collapses of the configuration that have afflicted all tokamaks ever operated. Reliable observers are a prerequisite to the definition and the deployment of any realistic strategy of countermeasures to avoid or mitigate disruptions. Lacking first principle models of the dynamics leading to disruptions, in the past decades empirical predictors have been extensively studied and some were even installed in JET real time network. Having been conceived as engineering tools, they were often very abstract. In this work, physics and data-driven methodologies are combined to identify the main macroscopic precursors of disruptions: magnetic instabilities, abnormal kinetic profiles and radiation patterns. Machine learning predictors utilising these observers can not only detect and classify these anomalies but also determine their probability of occurrence and estimate the time remaining before their onset. These tools have been applied to a database of about two thousand JET discharges with various isotopic compositions including DT, in conditions simulating in all respects real time deployment. Their performance would meet ITER requirements, and they are expected to be easily transferrable to larger devices, because they rely only on normalised quantities, form factors, and physical/empirical scaling laws.
The development of an in vitro human hair follicle organoid with a complexity similar to that in vivo
Authors: Marinho Paulo André , Jeong Gyusang , Shin Seung Hyun , Kim Su Na , Choi Hyeongwon , Lee Sung Hoon , Park Byung Cheol , Hong Yong Deog , Kim Hyoung-June , Park Won-Seok
Published: February 2024

In vitro hair follicle (HF) models are currently limited to ex vivo HF organ cultures (HFOCs) or 2D models that are of low availability and do not reproduce the architecture or behavior of the hair, leading to poor screening systems. To resolve this issue, we developed a technology for the construction of a human in vitro hair construct based on the assemblage of different types of cells present in the hair organ. First, we demonstrated that epithelial cells, when isolated in vitro, have similar genetic signatures regardless of their dissection site, and their trichogenic potential is dependent on the culture conditions. Then, using cell aggregation techniques, 3D spheres of dermal papilla (DP) were constructed, and subsequently, epithelial cells were added, enabling the production and organization of keratins in hair, similar to what is seen in vivo. These reconstructed tissues resulted in the following hair compartments: K71 (inner root-sheath), K85 (matrix region), K75 (companion layer), and vimentin (DP). Furthermore, the new hair model was able to elongate similarly to ex vivo HFOC, resulting in a shaft-like shape several hundred micrometers in length. As expected, when the model was exposed to hair growth enhancers, such as ginseng extract, or inhibitors, such as TGF-B-1, significant effects similar to those in vivo were observed. Moreover, when transplanted into skin biopsies, the new constructs showed signs of integration and hair bud generation. Owing to its simplicity and scalability, this model fully enables high throughput screening of molecules, which allows understanding of the mechanism by which new actives treat hair loss, finding optimal concentrations, and determining the synergy and antagonism among different raw materials. Therefore, this model could be a starting point for applying regenerative medicine approaches to treat hair loss.
Devitrite (Na2Ca3Si6O16) phase dominated nanostructured 45S5 bioactive glass: exploring its structural and biological properties
Authors: Elakkiya K , Ashok Raja C , Balakumar S
Published: February 2024

This research study is primarily centred around calcination temperature and time influence on phase formation in bioactive glasses (BGs). In the present study, BG with a nominal composition of 45S5 was synthesized through the sol–gel process. The developed BGs then underwent heat treatment for various sintering durations and temperatures. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of the BGs reveals that the sintering process led to the crystallization of both devitrite (Na2Ca3Si6O16) and combeite (Na2Ca2Si3O9) phases. The field emission scanning electron microscopy study divulges morphological alterations, from sheet-like to rod-like structures to eventually transforming into spherical and sheet-like structures. The surface area and Type-IV mesoporous porosity were validated through Brunauer Emmett Teller analysis, highlighting a notable increase in pore volume and mechanical strength at a lower sintering temperature. In vitro apatite formation was carried out in Hank’s balance salt in order to evaluate the bioactivity of the glass. After 7 d of immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF), XRD patterns and scanning electron microscopy micrographs results showed that formation of hydroxyapatite layer on the surface of the BGs. The BG compatibility with erythrocytes (red blood cells) was also studied, and the results revealed that there was only a low 2% lysis, showing good hemocompatibility. The drug loading and release behaviour of the BGs was studied in the in vitro analysis. The findings showed a high drug encapsulation effectiveness of up to 90% and continuous drug release from the BGs for 24 h. The materials biocompatibility was unambiguously confirmed by cytocompatibility and proliferation studies. This study provides compelling evidence for the exceptional efficacy and promise of the distinct 45S5 BGs in advancing the field of regenerative medicine.
Current approaches in tissue engineering-based nanotherapeutics for osteosarcoma treatment
Authors: Shanmugavadivu Abinaya , Lekhavadhani Sundaravadhanan , Miranda P J , Selvamurugan Nagarajan
Published: February 2024

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a malignant bone neoplasm plagued by poor prognosis. Major treatment strategies include chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. Chemotherapy to treat OS has severe adverse effects due to systemic toxicity to healthy cells. A possible way to overcome the limitation is to utilize nanotechnology. Nanotherapeutics is an emerging approach in treating OS using nanoparticulate drug delivery systems. Surgical resection of OS leaves a critical bone defect requiring medical intervention. Recently, tissue engineered scaffolds have been reported to provide physical support to bone defects and aid multimodal treatment of OS. These scaffolds loaded with nanoparticulate delivery systems could also actively repress tumor growth and aid new bone formation. The rapid developments in nanotherapeutics and bone tissue engineering have paved the way for improved treatment efficacy for OS-related bone defects. This review focuses on current bifunctional nanomaterials-based tissue engineered (NTE) scaffolds that use novel approaches such as magnetic hyperthermia, photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, bioceramic and polymeric nanotherapeutics against OS. With further optimization and screening, NTE scaffolds could meet clinical applications for treating OS patients.
Orthosymplectic
Z2×Z2Z2×Z2
-graded Lie superalgebras and parastatistics
Authors: Stoilova N I , der Jeugt J Van
Published: February 2024

A

Z

2

×

Z

2

-graded Lie superalgebra

g

is a

Z

2

×

Z

2

-graded algebra with a bracket

[
[
⋅
,
⋅
]
]

that satisfies certain graded versions of the symmetry and Jacobi identity. In particular, despite the common terminology,

g

is not a Lie superalgebra. We construct the most general orthosymplectic

Z

2

×

Z

2

-graded Lie superalgebra

o
s
p

(
2

m
1

+
1
,
2

m
2

|

2

n
1

,
2

n
2

)

in terms of defining matrices. A special case of this algebra appeared already in work of Tolstoy in 2014. Our construction is based on the notion of graded supertranspose for a

Z

2

×

Z

2

-graded matrix. Since the orthosymplectic Lie superalgebra

o
s
p

(
2
m
+
1

|

2
n
)

is closely related to the definition of parabosons, parafermions and mixed parastatistics, we investigate here the new parastatistics relations following from

o
s
p

(
2

m
1

+
1
,
2

m
2

|

2

n
1

,
2

n
2

)

. Some special cases are of particular interest, even when one is dealing with parabosons only.
Competitive random sequential adsorption of binary mixtures of disks and discorectangles
Authors: Lebovka Nikolai , Cieśla Michał , Petrone Luca , Vygornitskii Nikolai
Published: February 2024

The two-dimensional (2D) packings of binary mixtures of disks with diameter d and discorectangles with aspect ratio ɛ (length-to-width ratio

ε
=
l

/

d

) were studied numerically. The competitive random sequential adsorption (RSA) with simultaneous deposition of particles was considered. The aspect ratio was changed within the range

ε
=
1
−
10

. In the competitive model, the particle was selected with probability pd
(disks) and

p
ε

=
1
−

p
d

(discorectangles), and then they were placed sequentially on a solid surface without overlapping with previously placed particles. Behavior of the total coverage in jamming state ϕ

T
at different values of pd
and ɛ was analyzed. For core–shell structure of the particles the percolation connectivity of films was also discussed.
Ground improvement concept and selection for an onshore gas supply facilities in Malaysia
Authors: Ting D S , Liew C H , Hosni M N M
Published: February 2024

An onshore natural gas supply facility is proposed to be constructed in Bintulu, Sarawak to meet the local industrial demand. The project site is mostly flat, with compressible layer identified at several locations. To mitigate the risk of uneven settlement, RC piled foundation is selected to support facilities on the soft ground. However, for infrastructure such as roads, drains, and underground firewater lines, fully piled foundations will drastically increase the project duration and cost. Alternative mitigation measures to address the issues shall not hinder the access for other activities and construction sequence. In this paper, the approach taken to mitigate site-specific subsurface conditions is explained. Readers will be guided through the stages of ground improvement, from the inception of the project, the methodology used, analysis conducted, assessment and the way forward. Several options were explored considering factors such as estimated consolidation period, depth and rate of settlement, and stability analysis etc. The Remove and Replace, was selected as most suitable solution. Preliminary field results show that the targeted settlement at some areas were achieved earlier than anticipated. This enable the field installations such as firewater pipe to be laid earlier, contributed to the good project progress. Monitoring program is continued to ensure all identified areas met the accepted criteria.
Mechanical properties of concrete with hybrid binder fly ash and thermally activated alum sludge as partial cement replacement
Authors: Norlizam Anis Syazwani , Md Salleh Saleha , Hamid Roszilah
Published: February 2024

Different binders affect the mechanical properties of the concrete differently. Previous results show that optimum 15% of thermally activated alum sludge (TAASA) replacing cement (C) increase the compressive strength of concrete, and reversed for fly ash (FA) at 45% and more. This paper investigates the optimum binders’ ratio (total binder 25%) to produce highest compressive strength at 7, and 28 days. The ratios of FA: TAASA are S0-Control (0:0), S1-(4:0) S2-(3:1) S3-(2:2) S4-(1:3) and S5-(0:4). The cement used is a CEM II/B-L 32.5 N Portland composite. Results show that the slumps of all mixes decreased, with lowest for S1 (single binder FA). For the compressive strength (7 and 28 days), hybrid FA and TAASA with equal amount of 12.5% (S3) shows the highest, and all mixes’ strengths are above the control (S0). The strength increase of S3 is 58%, that is, from 22 MPa at 7 days to 29 MPa at 28 days. The flexural and split tensile of S3 are also higher than control (S0) at both ages. Hybrid FA and TAASA binders can produce superior mechanical properties concrete when the correct ratios are used compared to single binder replacement or all-cement binder concrete.
Polarization-based all-optical logic gates using diffractive neural networks
Authors: Lin Xiaohong , Zhang Kuo , Liao Kun , Huang Haiqi , Fu Yulan , Zhang Xinping , Feng Shuai , Hu Xiaoyong
Published: February 2024

Optical logic operations are an essential part of optical computing. The inherent stability and low susceptibility of polarization to the external environment make it a suitable choice for acting as the logical state in computational tasks. Traditional polarization-based optical logic devices often rely on complex cascading structures to implement multiple logic gates. In this work, by leveraging the framework of deep diffractive neural networks (D2NN), we proposed a uniform approach to designing polarization-encoded all-optical logic devices with simpler and more flexible structures. We have implemented AND, OR, NOT, NAND, and NOR gates, as well as High-order Selector and Low-order Selector. These polarization-based all-optical logic devices using D2NN offer passive nature, stability, and high extinction ratio features, paving the way for a broader exploration of optical logic computing in the future.
Design of a 16–bit 500 MS s–1 SAR-ADC at 45 nm for low power and high frequency applications
Authors: Singh Tejender , Tripathi Suman Lata , Mahmud Mufti
Published: February 2024

This study gives a thorough analysis of the performance of a 45 nm CMOS process-designed 16-bit 500 MS/s successive approximation register analog-to-digital converter (SAR-ADC). 16-bit R-2R DAC double-tail dynamic latch, Widlar current method, variable body-biasing technique, sample and hold block, 16-bit SAR, and 16-bit latch are used to design proposed SAR-ADC block. The SAR-ADC design and simulations were carried out using Cadence Virtuoso software. This powerful electronic design automation (EDA) tool facilitated the design, layout, and simulation of the ADC, ensuring a comprehensive analysis of its performance characteristics. MATLAB was used for post-simulation data analysis, processing, and visualization. The proposed SAR-ADC is compared with few existing examples listed as ADS8881, LTC2380–16, ADS8344, LTC2368, and MAX11156 on the performance metrics including signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), figure of merit (FOM), total harmonic distortion (THD), resolution, delay, power consumption and figure of Merit (FOM). This work is highlighting different aspects of the suggested architecture and demonstrates how it outperforms benchmark of ADCs in terms of power usage, SNR, THD, and FOM. A SAR-ADC attains a power consumption of 39.2 μW while operating at sampling frequency of 500 MS s–1 at supply voltage of 1 V. The results provide fresh perspectives for potential improvements in existing work in terms of reduction in power consumption and high-speed ADC at 16-bit resolution and also Jitter is scrutinized across various stages of the SAR-ADC. The proposed low power, high speed and high-resolution SAR ADC is targeted for high-quality analog-to-digital signal conversion useful in industrial automation systems, medical devices, IoT and audio processing modules.
Effective homology and periods of complex projective hypersurfaces
Authors: Lairez Pierre , Pichon-Pharabod Eric , Vanhove Pierre
Published: February 2024

We introduce a new algorithm for computing the periods of a smooth complex projective hypersurface. The algorithm intertwines with a new method for computing an explicit basis of the singular homology of the hypersurface. It is based on Picard–Lefschetz theory and relies on the computation of the monodromy action induced by a one-parameter family of hyperplane sections on the homology of a given section.

We provide a SageMath implementation. For example, on a laptop, it makes it possible to compute the periods of a smooth complex quartic surface with hundreds of digits of precision in typically an hour.
Negative eigenvalues of the conformal Laplacian
Authors: Henry Guillermo , Petean Jimmy
Published: February 2024

Let

M
M

be a closed differentiable manifold of dimension at least

3
3

. Let

Λ
0

(
M
)

\Lambda _0 (M)

be the minimum number of non-positive eigenvalues that the conformal Laplacian of a metric on

M
M

can have. We prove that for any

k
k

greater than or equal to

Λ
0

(
M
)

\Lambda _0 (M)

, there exists a Riemannian metric on

M
M

such that its conformal Laplacian has exactly

k
k

negative eigenvalues. Also, we discuss upper bounds for

Λ
0

(
M
)

\Lambda _0 (M)

.
Steinberg quotients, Weyl characters, and Kazhdan-Lusztig polynomials
Authors: Sobaje Paul
Published: February 2024

Let

G
G

be a reductive group over a field of prime characteristic. An indecomposable tilting module for

G
G

whose highest weight lies above the Steinberg weight has a character that is divisible by the Steinberg character. The resulting “Steinberg quotient” carries important information about

G
G

-modules, and in previous work we studied patterns in the weight multiplicities of these characters. In this paper we broaden our scope to include quantum Steinberg quotients, and show how the multiplicities in these characters relate to algebraic Steinberg quotients, Weyl characters, and evaluations of Kazhdan-Lusztig polynomials. We give an explicit algorithm for computing minimal characters that possess a key attribute of Steinberg quotients. We provide computations which show that these minimal characters are not always equal to quantum Steinberg quotients, but are close in several nontrivial cases.
Hausdorff dimension of the Cartesian product of limsup sets in Diophantine approximation
Authors: Wang Baowei , Wu Jun
Published: February 2024

The metric theory of limsup sets is the main topic in metric Diophantine approximation. A very simple observation by Erdös shows the dimension of the Cartesian product of two sets of Liouville numbers is 1. To disclose the mystery hidden there, we consider and present a general principle for the Hausdorff dimension of the Cartesian product of limsup sets. As an application of our general principle, it is found that
<mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" alttext="dimension Subscript script upper H Baseline upper W left-parenthesis psi right-parenthesis times midline-horizontal-ellipsis times upper W left-parenthesis psi right-parenthesis equals d minus 1 plus dimension Subscript script upper H Baseline upper W left-parenthesis psi right-parenthesis">

dim

H

⁡
W
(
ψ
)
×
⋯
×
W
(
ψ
)
=
d
−
1
+

dim

H

⁡
W
(
ψ
)

\begin{equation*} \dim _{\mathcal H}W(\psi )\times \cdots \times W(\psi )=d-1+\dim _{\mathcal H}W(\psi ) \end{equation*}

where

W
(
ψ
)

W(\psi )

is the set of

ψ
\psi

-well approximable points in

R

\mathbb {R}

and

ψ
:

N

→

R

+

\psi : \mathbb {N}\to \mathbb {R}^+

is a positive non-increasing function. Even this concrete case was never observed before. Our result can also be compared with Marstrand’s famous inequality on the dimension of the Cartesian product of general sets.
Moments and asymptotics for a class of SPDEs with space-time white noise
Authors: Chen Le , Guo Yuhui , Song Jian
Published: February 2024

In this article, we consider the nonlinear stochastic partial differential equation of fractional order in both space and time variables with constant initial condition:
<mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" alttext="left-parenthesis partial-differential Subscript t Superscript beta Baseline plus StartFraction nu Over 2 EndFraction left-parenthesis negative normal upper Delta right-parenthesis Superscript alpha slash 2 Baseline right-parenthesis u left-parenthesis t comma x right-parenthesis equals upper I Subscript t Superscript gamma Baseline left-bracket lamda u left-parenthesis t comma x right-parenthesis ModifyingAbove upper W With dot left-parenthesis t comma x right-parenthesis right-bracket t greater-than 0 comma x element-of double-struck upper R Superscript d Baseline comma">

(

∂
t

β

+

ν
2

(
−
Δ
)

α

/

2

)

u
(
t
,
x
)
=

I

t

γ

[
λ
u
(
t
,
x
)

W
˙

(
t
,
x
)
]

t
>
0
,

x
∈

R

d

,

\begin{equation*} \left (\partial ^{\beta }_t+\dfrac {\nu }{2}\left (-\Delta \right )^{\alpha / 2}\right ) u(t, x) = \: I_{t}^{\gamma }\left [\lambda u(t, x) \dot {W}(t, x)\right ] \quad t>0,\: x\in \mathbb {R}^d, \end{equation*}

with constants

λ
≠
0

\lambda \ne 0

and

ν
>
0

\nu >0

, where

∂
t

β

\partial ^{\beta }_t

is the Caputo fractional derivative of order

β
∈
(
0
,
2
]

\beta \in (0,2]

,

I

t

γ

I_{t}^{\gamma }

refers to the Riemann-Liouville integral of order

γ
≥
0

\gamma \ge 0

, and

(
−
Δ
)

α

/

2

\left (-\Delta \right )^{\alpha /2}

is the standard fractional/power of Laplacian with

α
>
0

\alpha >0

. We concentrate on the scenario where the noise

W
˙

\dot {W}

is the space-time white noise. The existence and uniqueness of solution in the Itô-Skorohod sense is obtained under Dalang’s condition. We obtain explicit formulas for both the second moment and the second moment Lyapunov exponent. We derive the

p
p

-th moment upper bounds and find the matching lower bounds. Our results solve a large class of conjectures regarding the order of the

p
p

-th moment Lyapunov exponents. In particular, by letting

β
=
2

\beta = 2

,

α
=
2

\alpha = 2

,

γ
=
0

\gamma = 0

, and

d
=
1

d = 1

, we confirm the following standing conjecture for the stochastic wave equation:
<mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" alttext="StartLayout 1st Row StartFraction 1 Over t EndFraction log double-struck upper E left-bracket StartAbsoluteValue u left-parenthesis t comma x right-parenthesis EndAbsoluteValue Superscript p Baseline right-bracket equivalent-to p Superscript 3 slash 2 Baseline comma for p greater-than-or-equal-to 2 as t right-arrow normal infinity period EndLayout">

1
t

log
⁡

E

[

|

u
(
t
,
x
)

|

p

]
≍

p

3

/

2

,

for 

p
≥
2

 as 

t
→
∞

.

\begin{align*} \frac {1}{t}\log \mathbb {E}[|u(t,x)|^p ] \asymp p^{3/2}, \quad \text {for $p\ge 2$ as $t\to \infty $.} \end{align*}

The method for the lower bounds is inspired by a recent work of Hu and Wang, where the authors focus on the space-time colored Gaussian noise case.
Impact of a pharmacist-managed remote heart failure program in patients with a multisensor-capable implanted device
Authors: Kwon Audrey , Denomme Phuong Thai
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Added layers of remote management in heart failure (HF) have become available for patients with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of pharmacist-managed HF monitoring in patients with a multisensor-capable ICD.

Methods

This was a retrospective, data-only, single-arm study that compared primary outcome events individually in the preactivation and postactivation periods at a single center. The primary outcomes were the total number of all-cause and HF-related hospitalizations and all-cause emergency department (ED) visits and the median length of stay for all-cause and HF-related hospitalizations. The secondary outcome quantified medication utilization.

Results

In total, 132 patients completed the 1-year follow-up period. Overall, there was a 49% reduction in the number of patients with an all-cause hospitalization, a 77% reduction in the number of patients with an HF-related hospitalization, and a 36% reduction in the number of patients with an ED visit. More patients were hospitalized, visited the ED (P < 0.005), and had a longer median length of stay for all-cause hospitalizations in the preactivation period (P < 0.05). Overall medication utilization increased in the postactivation period.

Conclusion

A pharmacist-led remote monitoring program, utilizing a multisensor diagnostic, was effective at significantly reducing hospitalizations, ED visits, and length of stay.
Pycallingcards: an integrated environment for visualizing, analyzing, and interpreting Calling Cards data
Authors: Guo Juanru , Zhang Wenjin , Chen Xuhua , Yen Allen , Chen Lucy , Shively Christian A , Li Daofeng , Wang Ting , Dougherty Joseph D , Mitra Robi D
Published: February 2024

Motivation

Unraveling the transcriptional programs that control how cells divide, differentiate, and respond to their environments requires a precise understanding of transcription factors’ (TFs) DNA-binding activities. Calling cards (CC) technology uses transposons to capture transient TF binding events at one instant in time and then read them out at a later time. This methodology can also be used to simultaneously measure TF binding and mRNA expression from single-cell CC and to record and integrate TF binding events across time in any cell type of interest without the need for purification. Despite these advantages, there has been a lack of dedicated bioinformatics tools for the detailed analysis of CC data.

Results

We introduce Pycallingcards, a comprehensive Python module specifically designed for the analysis of single-cell and bulk CC data across multiple species. Pycallingcards introduces two innovative peak callers, CCcaller and MACCs, enhancing the accuracy and speed of pinpointing TF binding sites from CC data. Pycallingcards offers a fully integrated environment for data visualization, motif finding, and comparative analysis with RNA-seq and ChIP-seq datasets. To illustrate its practical application, we have reanalyzed previously published mouse cortex and glioblastoma datasets. This analysis revealed novel cell-type-specific binding sites and potential sex-linked TF regulators, furthering our understanding of TF binding and gene expression relationships. Thus, Pycallingcards, with its user-friendly design and seamless interface with the Python data science ecosystem, stands as a critical tool for advancing the analysis of TF functions via CC data.

Availability and implementation

Pycallingcards can be accessed on the GitHub repository: https://github.com/The-Mitra-Lab/pycallingcards.
Efficient regeneration of protoplasts from Solanum lycopersicum cultivar Micro-Tom
Authors: Jeong Yeong Yeop , Noh Yoo-Sun , Kim Suk Weon , Seo Pil Joon
Published: February 2024

Protoplast regeneration has become a key platform for genetic and genome engineering. However, we lack reliable and reproducible methods for efficient protoplast regeneration for tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) cultivars. Here, we optimized cell and tissue culture methods for protoplast isolation, microcallus proliferation, shoot regeneration, and plantlet establishment of the tomato cultivar Micro-Tom. A thin layer of alginate was applied to protoplasts isolated from third to fourth true leaves and cultured at an optimal density of 1 × 105 protoplasts/ml. We determined the optimal culture media for protoplast proliferation, callus formation, de novo shoot regeneration, and root regeneration. Regenerated plantlets exhibited morphologically normal growth and sexual reproduction. The entire regeneration process, from protoplasts to flowering plants, was accomplished within 5 months. The optimized protoplast regeneration platform enables biotechnological applications, such as genome engineering, as well as basic research on plant regeneration in Solanaceae species.
482 - Efficacy and safety of sequential topical 0.1% mometasone furoate cream and 2% crisaborole in the treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in children aged over 2 years—a multicentre parallel randomised controlled study in China
Authors: Yang Huan , Shu Hong , Miao Limin , Li Ping , Wang Shan , Qian Hua , Chen Zhenping , Luo Xiaoyan , Ma Lin , Wang Hua
Published: February 2024

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, recurrent pruritic, inflammatory skin disease associated with genetic allergies. Crisaborole is a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of patients over 2 years of age with mild to moderate AD. Previous studies have focused on the efficacy of crisaborole in the treatment of AD, and its influence on AD recurrence is not clear.

Objective

To explore the efficacy and safety of sequential topical 0.1% mometasone furoate cream (Elosone) and crisaborole in the treatment of mild to moderate AD in children, and to investigate the effect of crisaborole on the recurrence of AD.

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Treatment of mild to moderate AD in children over 2 years of age with sequential topical 0.1% mometasone furoate and crisaborole significantly reduced relapses and the amount of mometasone furoate prescribed and was safe and well tolerated by patients.
508 - Dupilumab treatment normalizes intraepidermal nerve fiber density in patients with moderate-to-severe AD
Authors: Ständer Sonja , Agelopoulos Konstantin , Nattkemper Leigh , Bagel Jerry , Praestgaard Amy , Bologna Gabriel , Mack Madison , Zahn Joseph , Zhang Annie , Yosipovitch Gil
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Chronic pruritus is a characteristic of atopic dermatitis (AD), contributing to poor quality of life in patients. Alterations in neuroanatomy and neuroarchitecture associated with pruritus secondary to AD are not fully understood.

Objectives

To explore the role of dupilumab treatment effect on epidermal neuroanatomy by quantifying intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD).

Method

DIFFERENSTAD (NCT04823130) was an open-label, exploratory study that enrolled patients ≥ 18 years old with moderate-to-severe AD, pruritus lasting > 6 weeks, and Worst Itch Numerical Rating Scale (WI-NRS) ≥ 4, and matched healthy controls. Patients with AD received dupilumab 300 mg every 2 weeks for 16 weeks. Skin biopsies were obtained from patients’ lesional skin at baseline and localization-matched skin at Week 17 (end of treatment, EoT) and from healthy controls. The primary endpoint, IENFD, was defined as number of nerve fibers crossing the basement membrane per millimeter.

Results

31 patients with moderate-to-severe AD and 10 matched controls were enrolled. IENFD in patients with AD significantly increased from baseline to EoT (mean [SE]: 7.7 [1.3] at baseline vs 12.1 [2.0] at EoT for patients with AD; P = 0.0017), to levels comparable with the control group (mean [SE]: 12.4 [2.3]; P for control group vs EoT in patients with AD = 0.9374). Mean (SE) Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) total score and WI-NRS in dupilumab-treated patients were 22.5 (1.5) and 8.5 (0.3) at baseline, and 5.1 (1.1) and 3.1 (0.5) at EoT (both change from baseline P < 0.0001), respectively. The safety profile was consistent with the known safety profile for dupilumab.

Conclusions

Dupilumab treatment significantly increased IENFD to levels similar to those of healthy subjects, suggesting restored neuroanatomy in patients with moderate-to-severe AD. Dupilumab also significantly improved clinical signs and pruritus symptoms of AD.