bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Mechanical Heterogeneity and Study of the Mechanical Field at the Tip of the Stationary-Growing Crack in Dissimilar Metal Welded Joints
Authors: Wang Zheng , Xue He , Zhang YuBiao , Wang RongXin , Geng Miao
Published: March 2024

The mechanical heterogeneity in local areas of dissimilar metal welded joints and the micro-area mechanical state at the crack tip are key factors in determining Environment-Assisted Cracking (EAC). Traditional methods for acquiring material mechanical properties often result in destructive damage to specimens, while conventional “sandwich” models exhibit abrupt changes in interfacial mechanical properties and a lack of research into the mechanical field at the tip of the stationary or growing crack. In light of these challenges, this study, based on the analysis of microstructures in localized regions of the welded joint and the acquisition of material mechanical properties through indentation tests, developed a user-defined material subroutine (UMAT) to characterize the mechanical properties of non-uniform local areas within the welded joint. Additionally, it investigated the mechanical field at the tip of the stationary—growing crack using an integral method and a de-bond technique. The results indicate that non-destructive indentation tests can accurately acquire the material mechanical properties of local areas in the welded joint. Notably, significant changes in mechanical properties typically occur in the material interface regions, making them vulnerable points for potential failure. Furthermore, under the same load, mechanical heterogeneity significantly influences the distribution of the mechanical field at the crack tip. Crack propagation induces alterations in crack tip stresses, resulting in noticeable residual stresses and strains along the propagation path.
Mechanism Analysis of the Effect of Wake Vortex on Cylinder Vibration in Flow Induced Motion
Authors: Zhang Dahai , Yang Hao , Zhang Shuai
Published: March 2024

Unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) method combined with Spalart–Allmaras turbulence model and dynamic mesh technology was used to investigate the impact of wake vortex on the vibration response of a cylinder. By analyzing the phase difference between the wake vortex force and the displacement under different mass parameters in flow-induced vibration (FIV), the study reveals that the influence of wake vortex on the cylinder varies significantly in different vibration branches. The wake vortex of the initial branch enhances the cylinder's vibration, whereas the wake vortices of the upper, lower, and desynchronized branches suppress the vibration. At the critical point between the initial branch and the upper branch of vortex-induced vibration (VIV), there is a 90 degree phase jump, and the instantaneous phase difference fluctuation between the wake vortex force and displacement of the VIV branch remains relatively constant. In the galloping branch, there are wake vortices in different directions that affect the cylinder's vibration every quarter of the vibration period, and the phase difference undergoes periodic large fluctuations (either in-phase or out-of-phase), with the result that the wake vortex force periodically promotes or restrains the cylinder's vibration, which can serve as a novel criterion for identifying the occurrence of galloping. Furthermore, when varying the mass parameters at a constant reduced velocity, the impact of the wake vortex in the initial branch is relatively insignificant. However, as the mass ratio increases in other vibration branches, the suppressive effect increases, and the wake vortex force can prevent VIV induced galloping phenomenon by affecting the vibration intensity.
A Data-Driven Approach for Generalizing the Laminar Kinetic Energy Model for Separation and Bypass Transition in Low- and High-Pressure Turbines
Authors: Fang Yuan , Zhao Yaomin , Akolekar Harshal D. , Ooi Andrew S. H. , Sandberg Richard D. , Pacciani Roberto , Marconcini Michele
Published: March 2024

No common laminar kinetic energy (LKE) transition model has to date been able to predict both separation-induced and bypass transition, both phenomena commonly found in low-pressure turbines and high-pressure turbines. Here, a data-driven approach is adopted to develop a more general LKE transition model suitable for both transition modes. To achieve this, two strategies are adopted. The first is to extend the computational fluid dynamics (CFD)-driven model training framework for simultaneously training models on multiple turbine cases, subject to multiple objectives. By increasing the training data set, different transition modes can be considered. The second strategy employed is the use of a newly derived set of local non-dimensionalized variables as training inputs to reduce the search space. Because one of the training turbine cases is characterized by strong unsteady effects, for the first time an unsteady solver is utilized during the CFD-driven training, and the time-averaged results are used to calculate the cost function as part of the model development process. The results show that the data-driven models do perform better, in terms of their predictions of pressure coefficient, wall shear stress, and wake losses, than the baseline model. The models were then tested on two previously unseen testing cases, one at a higher Reynolds number and one with a different geometry. For both testing cases, stable solutions were obtained with results improved over the predictions using the baseline models.
Microbial diversity in shallow-sea sediment from Tsukumo Bay, Japan, determined by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing
Authors: Kato Moe , Sugitani Reina , Niiyama Sota , Kamiya Takahiro , Matsuura Norihisa
Published: March 2024

Information about the microbiota in marine sediments is important because the microbiota and their activities in sediments affect the surrounding marine environment. To evaluate the microbial diversity, we performed 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing on sediment samples from 19 stations in Tsukumo Bay, the northern area of Noto Peninsula, Japan.
Quantitative analysis of pertussis, tetanus, and diphtheria antibodies in sera and breast milk from Tdap vaccinated women using a qualified multiplex assay
Authors: Portillo Susana , Oshinsky Jennifer , Williams Margaret , Yoder Sandra , Liang Yuanyuan , Campbell James D. , Laufer Miriam K. , Neuzil Kathleen M. , Edwards Kathryn M. , Pasetti Marcela F.
Published: March 2024

Pertussis (whooping cough) is a reemergent, highly contagious respiratory infection of public health concern. Infants prior to initiation of their primary vaccination series are the most vulnerable to severe infection, and even death. Vaccination during pregnancy is an efficacious means of reducing infection in infants. This approach relies on boosting maternal immunity and passive transfer of antibodies to the infant via placenta and breast milk. Similarly, maternal vaccination post-partum can enhance maternal-infant immunity. To support the analysis of pertussis immunity in the context of maternal-infant immunization, we developed a high throughput multiplex assay for simultaneous quantification of serum IgG antibodies against pertussis vaccine antigens: pertussis toxin (PT), filamentous hemagglutinin (FHA), pertactin (PRN), and fimbriae (FIM2/3), and against tetanus (TT) and diphtheria toxoids (DT), using the Meso Scale Discovery (MSD) platform. The assay was qualified, and specificity, sensitivity, accuracy, precision, linearity, and robustness were demonstrated. The assay was subsequently adapted for quantification of IgG and IgA in breast milk. Applied to a serological survey of pregnant women living in the United States and sub-Saharan Africa, this method revealed differences in magnitude and breadth of antibody profile, consistent with history of vaccination. A longitudinal analysis of Tdap responses in women vaccinated post-partum demonstrated a rapid increase in serum IgG that remained elevated for up to 24 months. Likewise, high levels of vaccine-specific IgA and IgG antibodies were present in breast milk, although they exhibited faster decay. This multiplex MSD assay is a reliable and practical tool for quantification of pertussis, tetanus, and diphtheria antibodies in serum and breast milk in serosurveys or vaccine studies.

IMPORTANCE

Pertussis (whooping cough) has reemerged in recent years. Vaccination during pregnancy is an effective approach to prevent illness during the first months of life. We developed a multiplex assay for quantification of pertussis, tetanus, and diphtheria serum antibodies using the Meso Scale Discovery (MSD) platform; the method was qualified, and specificity, precision, accuracy, linearity, and limits of quantification were defined. It was also adapted for quantification of antibodies in breast milk. We successfully determined serostatus in women from different regions and with different vaccination histories, as well as responses to Tdap in blood and breast milk post-partum. This is the first description of a multiplex assay for the quantification of pertussis, tetanus, and diphtheria antibodies in breast milk.
Assessment of adherence to the 2020 Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines for fluid resuscitation in children with suspected septic shock in paediatric emergency departments: a prospective multicentre study
Authors: San Geroteo Julian , Levy Michael , Bailhache Marion , De Jorna Claire , Privat Elodie , Gasmi Oussama , Fuentes-Lopez Maria , Laoudi Yacine , Mazeghrane Mustapha , Malterre Aline , Bories Pauline , Abdel Aal Khaled , Arjoca Iozefina , Gaschignard Jean , Tanchaleune Davy , Minodier Philippe , Audren Fabien , Mazetier Tifanny , Quagliaro Pauline , Raimond Florence , Sieng Soria , Robert Blandine , Wohrer Delphine , De Suremain Nathalie , Dauger Stéphane
Published: March 2024

Background

Paediatric sepsis is the leading cause of death in children under 5 years. No studies have evaluated the application of the Surviving Sepsis Campaign 2020 (SSC-2020) guidelines in paediatric emergency departments (PEDs).

Objective

To assess physician adherence to the SSC-2020 fluid resuscitation guidelines in children with suspected septic shock in PEDs.

Methods

This was a prospective multicentre observational study conducted in 21 French hospitals over 5 sequential weeks, between November 2021 and March 2022. Children with suspected septic shock and who received antimicrobial therapy within 72 hours were included. Primary outcome was SSC-2020 fluid resuscitation guidelines adherence (low 0–24%; moderate 25–74%; high 75–100%) according to: bolus volume of 10–20 mL/kg each, exclusive administration of balanced crystalloids at 1 and 24 hours of management, and initiation of fluid resuscitation within 1 hour of septic shock recognition.

Results

63 children were included. 10 (16%) children had severe sepsis and 2 (3%) met the definition of septic shock. Compared with the SSC-2020 guidelines, 43 (68%) patients received boluses of 10–20 mL/kg; fluid resuscitation was initiated within 1 hour of septic shock recognition in 42 (76%) cases; balanced crystalloids were the only fluids administrated in 35 (56%) and 34 (55%) children at 1 and 24 hours of management, respectively. Main barriers reported by physicians were difficult intravenous access (43%), lack of team training (29%), workload constraints (28%), and absence or out-of-date protocols (24%).

Conclusions

This study found high adherence for fluid resuscitation initiation but moderate adherence for bolus volume and fluid choice.

Trial registration number

NCT05066464.
Association between abnormal default mode network homogeneity and sleep disturbances in major depressive disorder
Authors: Huang Muzhi , Ou Yangpan , Li Huabing , Liu Feng , Li Ping , Zhao Jingping , Lang Bing , Guo Wenbin
Published: March 2024

Background

Sleep disturbance is a common comorbidity of major depressive disorder (MDD). However, network homogeneity (NH) changes of the default mode network (DMN) in MDD with sleep disturbances are unclear.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to probe the abnormal NH in the DMN in MDD with sleep disturbances and to reveal the differences between MDD with or without sleep disturbances.

Methods

Twenty-four patients with MDD and sleep disturbances (Pa_s), 33 patients with MDD without sleep disturbances (Pa_ns) and 32 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited in this study. Resting-state functional imaging data were analysed using NH.

Results

Compared with Pa_ns and HCs, Pa_s showed decreased NH in the left superior medial prefrontal cortex and increased NH in the right precuneus. There was a negative correlation between NH in the left superior medial prefrontal cortex and sleep disturbances (r=−0.42, p=0.001) as well as a positive correlation between NH in the right precuneus and sleep disturbances (r=0.41, p=0.002) in patients with MDD.

Conclusions

MDD with sleep disturbances is associated with abnormal NH in the DMN, which could differentiate pa_s from pa_ns. The DMN may play a crucial role in the neurobiological mechanisms of MDD with sleep disturbances.
Electronic tags reveal high migratory diversity within the largest Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) stock
Authors: Ransier Krista T. , Gatti Paul , Le Bris Arnault , den Heyer Cornelia E. , Claireaux Guy , Wringe Brendan , Fisher Jonathan A. D.
Published: March 2024

Growing evidence suggests that complex spatial structure occurs within the Scotian Shelf and southern Grand Banks (SSGB) Atlantic halibut stock, yet large knowledge gaps remain about diversity of migratory and spawning behaviors. Here, 71 pop-up satellite archival tags were deployed on large Atlantic halibut (FL: 87–166 cm) between 2012 and 2020. Migration tracks were successfully reconstructed for 43 fish using a hidden Markov geolocation model, and temperature and depth time series were available for an additional nine fish (total n = 52). Five migratory behavior categories were identified: shelf residency, slope residency, shelf-channel migration, shelf-slope migration, and dispersal. High-resolution data for four of 20 physically recovered tags provided evidence of putative spawning behavior in deep channels on the continental shelf and along the continental slope between January and February. Additionally, four halibut displayed previously undocumented periods of sustained, oscillatory vertical movements along the continental slope between November and February. The high migratory diversity observed in this study provides support for the existence of multiple resident and migratory contingents in the SSGB stock in the apparent absence of significant genetic structure.
Impacts of urban heat island effect on critical urban infrastructure: a review of studies published between 2012 and 2022
Authors: Dwivedi Aishwarya , Soni Rajat
Published: March 2024

The urban heat island (UHI) effect has become a prominent urban characteristic in the last few decades and brings significant changes to the local urban climate. Such changes have severe impacts on the lifetime efficiency and performance of “ critical urban infrastructure” (CUI). As CUI forms the backbone of vital urban systems and socio-economic processes, it becomes important to understand the various impacts of UHI on different CUI elements. The impacts of UHI on CUI have consequently become a prominent study area within the urban research domain. This study presents a systematic bibliometric review of 118 relevant articles published within the last decade (2012–2022), selected from a variety of indexed, scholarly databases. The articles mainly focused on developed regions and large urban areas. The review shows a consistent upward trend in the annual number of publications on UHI effects with a peak reached in 2020. Of the four major CUI groups studied for UHI impacts, built form and energy and communication (with a strong focus on increased energy consumption) are the most prominent topics in the current literature, followed by transportation, and water and sanitation. Research on other CUI elements is still quite sparse, and significant efforts would be needed to identify the nature of UHI's impacts on these factors. This review highlights that the UHI impact on CUI is a developing research area that requires further attention and illustrates the state of knowledge and gaps present in current research. These findings provide a clear direction for future UHI impact studies.
Revisiting the gravitomagnetic clock effect
Authors: Iorio Lorenzo
Published: March 2024

To the first post-Newtonian order, if two test particles revolve in opposite directions about a massive, spinning body along two circular and equatorial orbits with the same radius, they take different times to return to the reference direction relative to which their motion is measured: it is the so-called gravitomagnetic clock effect. The satellite moving in the same sense of the rotation of the primary is slower, and experiences a retardation with respect to the case when the latter does not spin, while the one circling in the opposite sense of the rotation of the source is faster, and its orbital period is shorter than it would be in the static case. The resulting time difference due to the stationary gravitomagnetic field of the central spinning body is proportional to the angular momentum per unit mass of the latter through a numerical factor which so far has been found to be $$4\pi $$

4
π

. A numerical integration of the equations of motion of a fictitious test particle moving along a circular path lying in the equatorial plane of a hypothetical rotating object by including the gravitomagnetic acceleration to the first post-Newtonian order shows that, actually, the gravitomagnetic corrections to the orbital periods are larger by a factor of 4 in both the prograde and retrograde cases. Such an outcome, which makes the proportionality coefficient of the gravitomagnetic difference in the orbital periods of the two counter-revolving orbiters equal to $$16\pi $$

16
π

, confirms an analytical calculation recently published in the literature by the present author. It is an important result in view of the astrophysical implications of the gravitomagnetic clock effect around Kerr black holes.
Helical separation effect and helical heat transport for Dirac fermions
Authors: Ambruş Victor E. , Chernodub Maxim N.
Published: March 2024

An ensemble of massless fermions can be characterized by its total helicity charge given by the sum of axial charges of particles minus the sum of axial charges of antiparticles. We show that charged massless fermions develop a dissipationless flow of helicity along the background magnetic field. We dub this transport phenomenon as the Helical Separation Effect (HSE). Contrary to its chiral cousin, the Chiral Separation Effect, the HSE produces the helical current in a neutral plasma in which all chemical potentials vanish. In addition, we uncover the Helical Magnetic Heat Effect which generates a heat flux of Dirac fermions along the magnetic field in the presence of non-vanishing helical charge density. We also discuss possible hydrodynamic modes associated with the HSE in neutral plasma.
The study of structural, electronic, magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of antiperovskite carbides M3AlC (M=Mn and Fe): DFT combined with Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Azouaoui A. , Mouchou S. , Toual Y. , Benzakour N. , Hourmatallah A.
Published: March 2024

This work aims to investigate the structural stability, magnetic and electronic properties of M3AlC antiperovskites using density functional theory (DFT) and Monte Carlo simulation. The obtained ground state results reveal that the antiperovskites M3AlC are stable in the ferromagnetic (FM) state with a metallic character. The calculated total magnetic moments are 5.21[Formula: see text] and 3.34[Formula: see text] for Mn3AlC and Fe3AlC, respectively, with the total moments mainly from the M atom. The ferromagnetic behavior is confirmed by computing the density of state at Fermi level and verified the Stoner criterion. The magnetic and magnetocaloric behavior of M3AlC is investigated using Monte Carlo simulation and the obtained results demonstrate that the transition from ferromagnetic to paramagnetic state occurs at [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]K and [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]K for Mn3AlC and Fe3AlC, respectively. These values of [Formula: see text] are in good agreement with the experimental results. The magnetocaloric effect and critical behavior are studied and the obtained values of magnetic entropy change [Formula: see text] at 4.5[Formula: see text]T is about 4.242[Formula: see text]J/kg.K and 3.666[Formula: see text]J/kg.K and the relative cooling power (RCP) are 342.434[Formula: see text]J/kg.K and 325.26[Formula: see text]J/kg.K for Mn3AlC and Fe3AlC at 4.5T, indicating that these compounds are more appropriate for magnetic refrigeration. Finally, the critical exponents ([Formula: see text],[Formula: see text],[Formula: see text]) are calculated and the obtained values are close to the values of mean-field model.
Vibration and acoustic characteristics of acoustic black hole plates with variable elastic modulus
Authors: Wen Huabing , Zhai Yuxin , Guo Junhua , Ye Linchang
Published: March 2024

Acoustic black hole (ABH), as a new wave manipulation technique, shows excellent applications in vibration and noise reduction of structures. Nowadays, most ABHs use materials with a fixed elastic modulus, limiting their low-frequency performance. Herein ABH plates with variable elastic modulus (VM-ABH) is designed, and its vibration and acoustic radiation characteristics are investigated by using numerical analysis. The results show that the vibration response of VM-ABH has a decrease of 5–13.2[Formula: see text]dB relative to that of the uniform texture ABH (UT-ABH) in the frequency range of 10–5000[Formula: see text]Hz, and the degree of energy aggregation is significantly improved. Moreover, the sound pressure level was reduced by 3.6 dB. Meanwhile, by linearly varying the elastic modulus in the center region of the VM-ABH, the effects of gradient index and terminal elastic modulus on the damping characteristics and dynamic response are revealed. The research results provide new objects for the study of vibration and noise reduction of ABH.
A Novel Operation Technique for Forearm Deformities in Patients with Brachial Plexus Birth Injury: Retrospective Analysis of 14 Patients
Authors: ALTAŞ Okyar , BAYRAM Serkan , ÖZKAN Safiye , DURMAZ Hayati , AYDIN Atakan
Published: March 2024

Background: We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of our novel operation technique that included radial shaft shortening plus supination producing osteotomy and transfer of the biceps brachii tendon to the brachialis tendon in patients with chronic radial head dislocation secondary to brachial plexus birth injury (BPBI).

Methods: Fourteen patients with chronic radial head dislocation resulting from BPBI were included in this study, with a minimum 1-year postoperative follow-up period. All patients underwent the same surgical procedure. The range of motion of affected elbow was measured with a standard goniometer. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) was used to measure for evaluation of functional result of these patients. The affected elbow radiograph also obtained in the last visit for evaluation of compatibility of the radiocapitellar joint.

Results: Fourteen patients (10 males and 4 females) were included in the study. The average age at the time of surgery was 7.2 (5–8) years and average follow-up was 73.2 ± 19 (36–131) months. Although the forearm active–passive pronation decreased, active–passive supination significantly improved postoperatively (p < 0.001). Ten patients had excellent MEPS results (90 and above), two patients with good results (75 and 80), one patient with fair (65) and one patient with poor result (55). Radiocapitellar reduction was achieved in 78.5% (11/14) of the patients.

Conclusions: The novel surgical techniques that included radial shaft shortening plus supination producing osteotomy and transfer of the biceps brachii tendon to the brachialis tendon improved the functional outcomes of patients with chronic radial head dislocation secondary to BPBI.

Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic)
DHyper: A Recurrent Dual Hypergraph Neural Network for Event Prediction in Temporal Knowledge Graphs
Authors: Tang Xing , Chen Ling , Shi Hongyu , Lyu Dandan
Published: March 2024

Event prediction is a vital and challenging task in temporal knowledge graphs (TKGs), which have played crucial roles in various applications. Recently, many graph neural networks based approaches are proposed to model the graph structure information in TKGs. However, these approaches only construct graphs based on quadruplets and model the pairwise correlation between entities, which fail to capture the high-order correlations among entities. To this end, we propose DHyper, a recurrent Dual Hypergraph neural network for event prediction in TKGs, which simultaneously models the influences of the high-order correlations among both entities and relations. Specifically, a dual hypergraph learning module is proposed to discover the high-order correlations among entities and among relations in a parameterized way. A dual hypergraph message passing network is introduced to perform the information aggregation and representation fusion on the entity hypergraph and the relation hypergraph. Extensive experiments on six real-world datasets demonstrate that DHyper achieves the state-of-the-art performances, outperforming the best baseline by an average of 13.09%, 4.26%, 17.60%, and 18.03% in MRR, Hits@1, Hits@3, and Hits@10, respectively.
Proton Transport, Electroosmotic Drag and Oxygen Permeation in Polytetrafluoroethylene Reinforced Ionomer Membranes and Their Effects on Fuel Cell Performance
Authors: Luo Cong , Guo Qingsheng , Feng Cong , Wang Yun , Ming Pingwen , Zhang Cunman
Published: March 2024

With the increasing need for high power density of proton exchange membrane fuel cells, new composite membranes have been explored for superior proton transport and gas impermeability. These membranes’ physicochemical properties usually deviate from existing empirical formulas, which are poorly understood, especially when mechanical deformation occurs. This poor understanding hinders development of novelty membranes and their fuel cell applications. Here, using polytetrafluoroethylene reinforced ionomer membrane as an example, we conducted extensive water absorption experiments to determine hydration levels at different water activities. Molecular dynamics simulations and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were used to investigate the impacts of hydration level, external electric field strength, and tensile deformation on proton transport and electroosmotic drag coefficient, as well as the impact of hydration level and free volume ratio on oxygen permeability. We proposed mathematical correlations for these impacts and incorporated them into a single-cell voltage model to analyze their effects on fuel cell performance. Results show that an increase in the electric field strength alters the proton transport pattern, but has minimal impact on the electro-osmosis coefficient. The oxygen permeability coefficient of a deformed membrane with a free volume ratio of 28.57% is more than two orders of magnitude higher than that of a non-deformed membrane. The electro-osmatic drag coefficient imposes a larger influence on fuel cell performance than oxygen permeability.
Synthesis and Properties of Eu and Ni Co-Doped ZnS Nanoparticles for the Detection of Ammonia Gas
Authors: Ankinapalli Murali , G. S. Harish , Kurugundla Gopi Krishna , Kuchi Charan , Munga Sowjanya , Reddy P. Sreedhara
Published: March 2024

Zinc sulfide nanoparticles were synthesized successfully via chemical co-precipitation, both in undoped form and co-doped with Europium (Eu) and Nickel (Ni). All prepared samples exhibited cubic zinc blende structure as confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The average particle size ranged from 3 to 6 nm for both pure and (Eu, Ni) co-doped ZnS, with no alteration in the crystal structure due to Eu and Ni co-doping. However, increasing the Ni dopant concentration (0, 2, 4, & 6 at%) while maintaining a constant Eu concentration (4 at%) led to an enhancement in the crystallite size. This was further validated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), which showed particle sizes consistent with the XRD findings (3–5 nm). Microscopic analysis via scanning electron microscopy and TEM revealed spherical agglomerated morphology for the (Eu, Ni) co-doped nanoparticles. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy spectra confirmed the stoichiometric chemical composition of ZnS: Eu, Ni. Photoluminescence studies demonstrated an increased intensity of green luminescence at 6 at% Ni co-dopant concentration. Moreover, the synthesized samples exhibited promising gas sensing properties, particularly towards ammonia gas, with good selectivity. Notably, both pure and (Eu, Ni) co-doped ZnS nanoparticles showed rapid response and recovery times at room temperature, suggesting their potential applicability in gas sensing applications.
Kynurenine 3-monooxygenase limits de novo NAD+ synthesis through dietary tryptophan in renal proximal tubule epithelial cell models
Authors: Zhai Yougang , Chavez Jose A. , D’Aquino Katharine E. , Meng Rong , Nawrocki Andrea R. , Pocai Alessandro , Wang Lifeng , Ma Li-Jun
Published: March 2024

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is essential in regulating mitochondrial function. Reduced NAD+ synthesis through the de novo pathway is associated with acute kidney injury (AKI). Our study reveals a disruption in de novo NAD+ synthesis in proximal tubular models, but not in vivo, attributed to downregulation of enzyme kynurenine 3-monooxygenase (KMO). These findings highlight a crucial role of KMO in governing de novo NAD+ biosynthesis within the kidney, shedding light on potential AKI interventions.
The myokine CCL5 recruits subcutaneous preadipocytes and promotes intramuscular fat deposition in obese mice
Authors: Yu Wensai , Yao Yao , Ye Nanwei , Zhao Yuelei , Ye Zijian , Wei Wei , Zhang Lifan , Chen Jie
Published: March 2024

C2C12 myotubes attract 3T3-L1 preadipocyte migration regulated by the chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 5 (CCL5)/ chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 5 (CCR5) axis. High levels of skeletal muscle-specific CCL5 promote the migration of subcutaneous adipocytes to skeletal muscle and induce the intramuscular fat (IMF) content.
Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Amburana cearensis: A Scientometric Study on an Endangered Medicinal Tree
Authors: dos Santos Ayane Emília Dantas , Fajardo Cristiane Gouvêa , Sousa Vivian Raquel Bezerra de , Vieira Fábio de Almeida
Published: March 2024

Amburana cearensis (Fabaceae) is a native tree of the Brazilian northeastern semiarid region, which has considerable economic, medicinal, and social importance, especially in the Caatinga biome. This study aims to identify the scientific knowledge generated about the pharmacological applicability of the species. We analyzed scientific works on the widespread pharmacological use of A. cearensis, adopting the scientometric research method. The medicinal properties were classified according to the uses mentioned in the manuscripts, considering body systems and treated symptoms. They were associated with the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health. We identified a total of 86 articles addressing the medicinal potential of the species, distributed in 57 journals published between 2005 and 2023. There was a significant increase in publications during the period evaluated. Also, the species has been widely used in traditional medicine, which has attracted new studies, especially experimental ones focusing on unraveling its pharmacological potential. One trend observed was a significant geographic bias, since most of the studies investigated were carried out by researchers linked to Brazilian institutions located mainly in the northeast. This region includes the largest number of species occurrence points, explaining the interest of these institutions in recognizing the biological potential of their local or regional flora. In-depth investigations into the medicinal properties and secondary metabolites produced by A. cearensis should continue so that its therapeutic benefits are fully understood. However, it is necessary to link research into chemical and pharmacological properties with consideration of the importance of sustainable management of the species, since it faces risks of extinction. We acknowledge that an earlier version of this manuscript was presented as a dissertation by Ayane Emília Dantas dos Santos to fulfil the academic requirements for the degree of Forest Science at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte. The dissertation is available for reference at the following link: https://repositorio.ufrn.br/jspui/bitstream/123456789/46918/1/Cienciometriaetnobotanicamodelagem_Santos_2022.pdf.
A Study of Physical, Chemical, and Sensory Characteristics of Novel Legume Dips
Authors: Makhloufi Lynda , Yamani Mohammad I.
Published: March 2024

There is a consensus among experts and consumers that pulses are a good source of nutrients and fiber. In a traditional hummus recipe, chickpeas are the major ingredient. The present study is aimed at developing new legume dips by exchanging chickpeas (Chd) with dry green (Gld) and red lentils (Rld), dry white beans (Wbd), and dry green peas (Gpd). Presoaking, boiling, proximate composition, pH, energy, color measurement, and sensory evaluation were conducted on the dips using chickpea dip (hummus) as a control. One-way ANOVA was used to determine the differences between the dips. The results revealed significant differences in the proximate composition of legume dips. The protein content of the five samples ranged between 7.46% and 9.19%, while the values varied from 8.59% to 10.93% in fat, 3.88% to 6.54% in crude fiber, 14.48% to 15.51% in carbohydrates, 171.95 to 195.13 in energy, 1.55% to 1.76% in ash, and 63.35% to 66.90% in moisture. These variations could be attributed to the type and composition of each legume, the soaking and boiling process, and the tahini added during the preparation. pH ranged between 4.5 and 4.7. The color measurement indicated that the five legume dips could be considered bright products (high L∗>67), with a positive color valuebluered-green and yellow-. Significant differences (p≤0.05) were observed in the legume dips sensory evaluation, and the red lentil dip was the most acceptable with results comparable to the chickpea dip; it was followed by the green lentil, white bean, and green pea dips. These results highlight the feasibility of commercial production of legume dip that promotes human health and gives consumers more choices.
Identification and Validation of the Pyroptosis‐Related Hub Gene Signature and the Associated Regulation Axis in Diabetic Keratopathy
Authors: Cui Yi , Wang Li , Liang Wentao , Huang Li , Zhuang Shuting , Shi Hong , Xu Nuo , Hu Jianzhang
Published: March 2024

Background. Diabetic keratopathy (DK) poses a significant challenge in diabetes mellitus, yet its molecular pathways and effective treatments remain elusive. The aim of our research was to explore the pyroptosis‐related genes in the corneal epithelium of the streptozocin‐induced diabetic rats. Methods. After sixteen weeks of streptozocin intraperitoneal injection, corneal epithelium from three diabetic rats and three normal groups underwent whole‐transcriptome sequencing. An integrated bioinformatics pipeline, including differentially expressed gene (DEG) identification, enrichment analysis, protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network, coexpression, drug prediction, and immune deconvolution analyses, identified hub genes and key drivers in DK pathogenesis. These hub genes were subsequently validated in vivo through RT‐qPCR. Results. A total of 459 DEGs were screened out from the diabetic group and nondiabetic controls. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis highlighted significant enrichment of the NOD‐like receptor, Toll‐like receptor, and NF‐kappa B signaling pathways. Intersection of DEGs and pyroptosis‐related datasets showed 33 differentially expressed pyroptosis‐related genes (DEPRGs) associated with pathways such as IL‐17, NOD‐like receptor, TNF, and Toll‐like receptor signaling. A competing endogenous RNA network comprising 16 DEPRGs, 22 lncRNAs, 13 miRNAs, and 3 circRNAs was constructed. After PPI network, five hub genes (Nfkb1, Casp8, Traf6, Ptgs2, and Il18) were identified as upregulated in the diabetic group, and their expression was validated by RT‐qPCR in streptozocin‐induced rats. Immune infiltration characterization showed that diabetic corneas owned a higher proportion of resting mast cells, activated NK cells, and memory‐resting CD4 T cells. Finally, several small compounds including all‐trans‐retinoic acid, Chaihu Shugan San, dexamethasone, and resveratrol were suggested as potential therapies targeting these hub genes for DK. Conclusions. The identified and validated hub genes, Nfkb1, Casp8, Traf6, Ptgs2, and Il18, may play crucial roles in DK pathogenesis and serve as therapeutic targets.
A Modified Iterative Approach for Fixed Point Problem in Hadamard Spaces
Authors: Tassaddiq Asifa , Ahmed Wakeel , Zaman Shahid , Raza Asma , Islam Usman , Nantomah Kwara
Published: March 2024

The role of iterative algorithms is vital in exploring the diverse domains of science and has proven to be a powerful tool for solving complex computational problems in the most trending branches of computer science. Taking motivation from this fact, we develop and apply a modified four-step iterative algorithm to solve the fixed point problem in the Hadamard spaces using a total asymptotic nonexpansive mapping. MATLAB R2018b is used for numerical experiments to ensure a better convergence rate of the proposed iterative algorithm with existing results.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Acute Respiratory Failure due to Hemorrhagic Alveolitis in a Patient with Acute Myeloblastic Leukemia
Authors: Cuccarelli Martina , Schiavoni Lorenzo , Agrò Felice Eugenio , Pascarella Giuseppe , Costa Fabio , Cataldo Rita , Carassiti Massimiliano , Mattei Alessia
Published: March 2024

Introduction. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support for severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is nowadays widely used with notable results on the overall survival as reported in the ELSO registry near to 55% at 90 days. This is the reason why ECMO teams force the use of this extreme technique to several populations, even though there is still a lack of data about its use on hematological patients. Case Report. A 39‐year‐old woman without a history of previous diseases, but a new diagnosis of acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML) was admitted to intensive care unit (ICU) for worsening hypoxia and respiratory acidosis, presenting an ARDS with PaO2/FiO2 < 100 in spontaneous breathing treated with noninvasive ventilation via full‐face mask. Meanwhile, chemotherapy was started leading to a severe bone marrow aplasia that was managed with multiple blood and platelet transfusions. These conditions did not allow physicians to start any invasive approaches. After 14 days, ARDS worsened whereas bone marrow recovered, making possible the beginning of an invasive mechanical ventilation, with low positive end‐expiratory pressure and a low tidal volume. Moreover, an immediate extracorporeal CO2 removal (ECCO2R) therapy was added. Despite these efforts, no improvement was achieved, and that is why venovenous ECMO throughout femoral‐jugular cannulation was applied. A full protective lung ventilation by ultralow tidal volumes was guaranteed. After 2 weeks of ECMO, a gradual weaning from ECMO support was started and completed after two days. No ECMO‐related complications were registered. In the end, the patient started her weaning from the mechanical ventilation and reached 12 hours of spontaneous ventilation in oxygen therapy. Discussion. ECMO is used as a rescue therapy in patients affected by severe respiratory failure with life‐threatening hypoxia and respiratory acidosis nonresponsive to other maneuvers. However, immunosuppression and coagulopathies of hematological malignancies are considered relative contraindications for ECMO, while long‐lasting respiratory failure represents another relative contraindication to extracorporeal support. ECMO could be a valid option to improve the survival of hematological patients with severe ARDS and thrombocytopenia, and management could change case by case, even if high incidence of recurrency.
Multisensor Fuzzy Logic Approach for Enhanced Fire Detection in Smart Cities
Authors: Vaegae Naveen Kumar , Annepu Visalakshi , Bagadi Kalapraveen , Dahan Fadl
Published: March 2024

As smart cities expand rapidly, the demand for strong fire protection has become even more essential. A significant challenge lies in ensuring that fire detection systems integrate seamlessly into our modern infrastructures. Leveraging multisensor systems can yield reliable data on potential fires. Particularly in smart buildings, the effectiveness of multisensor fire detection algorithms becomes paramount. This research introduces a fuzzy logic-driven method that harnesses the power of smoke, flame, and temperature sensors. While smoke, flames, and elevated temperatures are primary fire indicators, they can manifest concurrently or sequentially. We have amalgamated various fuzzy logic rules (IF-THEN structures) to gauge the intensity of fires. When a fire ignites, the sensors spring into action, identifying its source and promptly notifying users via the Internet and GSM modems. Moreover, they relay the fire’s precise geographic coordinates to fire departments. The fire’s status will be consistently updated on a dedicated online portal. It was observed from our results that the system proficiently sends fire alerts to residents, and the fire status undergoes regular updates at 45-second intervals. This refreshing is initiated by the identification of a designated percentage of smoke and flame. These outcomes validate the system’s effectiveness in enhancing the precision and responsiveness of fire detection capabilities.
Reporting the Bismuth Promotion for Green Methanol Synthesis by CO2 Hydrogenation over MgO‐Supported Cu‐Zn Catalysts
Authors: Alotaibi Mshari A. , Din Israf Ud
Published: March 2024

Due to the effective exploitation of carbon resources and concurrent decrease in the concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2), the thermochemical conversion of CO2 into high‐value chemical compounds has emerged as a significant research field. In this article, we report on the effective thermochemical conversion of CO2 for the synthesis of methanol by using Bi‐promoted Cu‐Zn/MgO catalysts. Cu‐Zn bimetallic catalysts supported by MgO were created using the coprecipitation technique. The catalysts that were produced were subjected to varying concentrations of bismuth in order to examine their potential enhancing properties. Several analytical methods were applied to examine the physicochemical profile of the calcined catalysts. ICP‐OES confirmed the actual bulk concentration of bismuth in each bismuth‐supported Cu‐Zn/MgO catalysts. X‐ray diffraction studies revealed crystalline form of MgO catalysts support on one hand and high dispersion of Cu and Zn metal oxide on the MgO surface on the other. The study employed scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to examine the morphology of produced catalysts with uniform distribution, since this revealed their nanosize. The mesoporosity characteristic of Bi‐promoted Cu‐Zn/MgO catalysts was demonstrated by BET surface investigations. The catalytic performance of Bi‐promoted Cu‐Zn/MgO catalysts for methanol production by CO2 hydrogenation was revealed by activity data in liquid phase slurry reactor. The active profile of Bi could be further justified by comparative studies conducted for the current work with literature.
Supplemental Figure S3 from Targeting Tryptophan Catabolism in Ovarian Cancer to Attenuate Macrophage Infiltration and PD-L1 Expression
Authors: Crump Lyndsey S. , Floyd Jessica L. , Kuo Li-Wei , Post Miriam D. , Bickerdike Mike , O'Neill Kathleen , Sompel Kayla , Jordan Kimberly R. , Corr Bradley R. , Marjon Nicole , Woodruff Elizabeth R. , Richer Jennifer K. , Bitler Benjamin G.
Published: March 2024

Pharmacologic Inhibition of TRP Catabolism.
High-resolution Diffusion-weighted Imaging to Detect Changes in Tumor Size and ADC, and Predict Adverse Biopsy Histology during Prostate Cancer Active Surveillance
Authors: Saouaf Rola , Xie Yibin , Kim Sungjin , Raphael Yaniv , Nguyen Christopher , Luthringer Daniel , Daskivich Timothy J. , Lo Eric , Tighiouart Mourad , Li Debiao , Kim Hyung L.
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

Majority of men with low-risk prostate cancer can be managed with active surveillance (AS). This study evaluates a high-resolution diffusion-weighted imaging (HR-DWI) technique to predict adverse biopsy histology (AH), defined as Gleason score ≥7 on any biopsy or ≥3 increase in number of positive biopsy cores on systematic biopsies. We test the hypothesis that high-grade disease and progressing disease undergo subtle changes during even short intervals that can be detected by HR-DWI.

Experimental Design:

In a prospective clinical trial, serial multiparametric MRIs, incorporating HR-DWI and standard DWI (S-DWI) were performed approximately 12 months apart prior to prostate biopsy (n = 59). HR-DWI, which uses reduced field-of-view and motion compensation techniques, was compared with S-DWI.

Results:

HR-DWI had a 3-fold improvement in spacial resolution compared with S-DWI as confirmed using imaging phantoms. For detecting AH, multiparametric MRI using HR-DWI had a sensitivity of 75% and specificity of 83.9%, and MRI using S-DWI had a sensitivity of 71.4% and specificity of 54.8%. The AUC for HR-DWI was significantly higher (0.794 vs. 0.631, P = 0.014). Secondary analyses of univariable predictors of AH showed tumor size increase [OR 16.8; 95% confidence interval (CI): 4.06–69.48; P < 0.001] and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) decrease (OR 5.06; 95% CI: 1.39–18.38; P = 0.014) on HR-DWI were significant predictors of AH.

Conclusion:

HR-DWI outperforms S-DWI in predicting AH. Patient with AH have tumors that change in size and ADC that could be detected using HR-DWI. Future studies with longer follow-up should assess HR-DWI for predicting disease progression during AS.

Significance:

We report on a prospective clinical trial using a MRI that has three times the resolution of standard MRI. During AS for prostate cancer, two high-resolution MRIs performed approximately a year apart can detect tumor changes that predict the presence of aggressive cancers that should be considered for curative therapy such as prostatectomy or radiation.