bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on simulation and aspirated‐air type experiment of fresh tea leaf with air suction based on CFD–DEM coupling
Authors: Zhang Xu , Zhu Xinyu , Yu Kai
Published: September 2024

In this study, a computational fluid dynamics and discrete element (CFD–DEM) coupling model for sorting fresh tea leaves by aspirated‐air type was established, an experimental study of adsorption on bench was carried out, and computational fluid dynamics (fluent) was used to analyze the flow characteristics of two kinds of air‐suction tea leaf models, The coupling model of CFD–DEM is established, the motion process of fresh tea leaves from being adsorbed by a porous turntable to moving and falling with the turntable was simulated, 3D printing technology was used to print the key parts of the air suction tea leaf sorting equipment, and the porous turntable adsorption test of air suction tea leaf sorting was carried out. The results show that the model with the falling guard device has no airflow at the hole of the porous turntable, and the gas field flow characteristics are stable, which can ensure the smooth falling of fresh tea leaves; The results of the bench test for the separation of fresh tea leaves by air suction are the same as those simulated by the established CFD–DEM coupling model, which indicates that the establishment of the CFD–DEM coupling model and the simulation parameters are reasonable, and the coupling model lays a foundation for the later optimization and design of the multi‐scale air suction separation mechanism for tea particles.

Practical applications

This research is applied to the field of food engineering and sorting of fresh tea leaves. This research innovatively proposes the principle of air‐suction sorting of fresh tea leaves. The air sucked in by negative pressure can carry out the next operation and save energy better. In this study, a CFD–DEM coupling model for air‐suction separation of fresh tea leaves was established. The key components of air‐suction separation equipment were printed using 3D printing technology, and the test results were the same as the simulation results.
Echolocation signals recorded in the presence of Deraniyagala's beaked whales (Mesoplodon hotaula) in the western Pacific (South China Sea) indicate species‐specificity and intraspecific variation
Authors: Dong Lijun , Song Yuhang , Lin Wenzhi , Liu Mingming , Lin Mingli , Li Songhai
Published: September 2024

Deraniyagala's beaked whale (Mesoplodon hotaula) is one of the least‐known beaked whale species, with only a few of possible live sightings being documented to date. Here, vocalizations of Deraniyagala's beaked whales were recorded using drifting recording systems in the confirmed presence of this whale in the northern South China Sea (SCS) in 2021. A total of 699 qualified frequency‐modulated (FM) pulses were used to calculate frequency and duration measurements. FM pulses had a median peak frequency of 43.3 kHz and median interpulse interval (IPI) of 244.6 ms. Both the spectra measurements and clustering analysis showed the recorded clicks closely resemble the clicks of beaked whales at Palmyra Atoll (presumed to belong to Deraniyagala's beaked whale). Compared with other Ziphiidae species, interspecific differences were also observed. Distinguishing between Deraniyagala's and ginkgo‐toothed (M. ginkgodens) beaked whales with acoustic data sets seems to prove feasible. Our results also suggested that Deraniyagala's beaked whales may produce more than one subtype of FM pulses. This study presents the first description of echolocation clicks produced by this species based on the confirmed visual sightings. It is beneficial to identify the species in passive acoustic monitoring records and gain further insight into this species' vocalizations.
eIF2Bβ confers resistance to Turnip mosaic virus by recruiting ALKBH9B to modify viral RNA methylation
Authors: Sha Tongyun , Li Zhangping , Xu Shirui , Su Tongbing , Shopan Jannat , Jin Xingming , Deng Yueying , Lyu Xiaolong , Hu Zhongyuan , Zhang Mingfang , Yang Jinghua
Published: September 2024

Eukaryotic translation initiation factors (eIFs) are the primary targets for overcoming RNA virus resistance in plants. In a previous study, we mapped a BjeIF2Bβ from Brassica juncea representing a new class of plant virus resistance genes associated with resistance to Turnip mosaic virus (TuMV). However, the mechanism underlying eIF2Bβ‐mediated virus resistance remains unclear. In this study, we discovered that the natural variation of BjeIF2Bβ in the allopolyploid B. juncea was inherited from one of its ancestors, B. rapa. By editing of eIF2Bβ, we were able to confer resistance to TuMV in B. juncea and in its sister species of B. napus. Additionally, we identified an N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) demethylation factor, BjALKBH9B, for interaction with BjeIF2Bβ, where BjALKBH9B co‐localized with both BjeIF2Bβ and TuMV. Furthermore, BjeIF2Bβ recruits BjALKBH9B to modify the m6A status of TuMV viral coat protein RNA, which lacks the ALKB homologue in its genomic RNA, thereby affecting viral infection. Our findings have applications for improving virus resistance in the Brassicaceae family through natural variation or genome editing of the eIF2Bβ. Moreover, we uncovered a non‐canonical translational control of viral mRNA in the host plant.
Oral health, treatment burden and demographics of elders with care‐resistant behavior: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: El Gedaily Mohamed , Spatzier Hansmartin , Srinivasan Murali
Published: September 2024

Aims

To assess oral health, treatment burden, mortality risk, and demographics in elders with care‐resistant behaviors (CRB) in nursing homes (NH) and compare them with those without CRB.

Methods and results

503 participants from eight NH who received dental treatment through a mobile dental clinic were included. Their medical and dental records were screened regarding oral/dental health, treatment history, general health, demographics, and CRB. Statistical analysis was performed to show correlations between CRB and the measured parameters. Data were verified for normal distribution; a point‐biserial correlation model was used (95% CI: α = 0.05). No correlation was found between CRB and Decayed Missing Filled Teeth (DMF‐T) (rpb = ‐0.061, p = .177), as well as periodontal status (rpb = 0.004, p = .946). A negative correlation was observed between CRB and the required number of treatment procedures (rpb = ‐0.181, p < .0001), time (rpb = ‐0.118, p = .010), and costs (rpb = ‐0.100, p = .028). Sex predilection for men regarding CRB was evident (rpb = ‐0.155, p = .01). No correlation appeared between CRB and vital status (rpb = ‐0.41, p = .355).

Conclusion

Oral health seems to be similar in institutionalized elders with or without CRB. Treatment burden was not elevated, but even reduced in elders with CRB, evincing that few/no treatment procedures were performed in those elders. CRB demonstrated a sex predilection for men. An association between CRB and increased mortality was not evident.
Make It or Break It? Injury Impacts More Than Half of Deselected Athletes Who Dropped Out of the High‐Performance Pathway System. A 4‐Year Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Guevara Sara A. , Sheehy Daniel J. , Waddington Gordon , Drew Michael K. , Keegan Richard J. , Toohey Liam A.
Published: September 2024

To investigate: (1) the injury epidemiology in an Australian academy; (2) how athletes transition through the high‐performance sport (HPS) pathway; and (3) why athletes leave this HPS program. This retrospective cohort study was conducted at an Australian HPS academy over a 4‐year period. Medical attention injuries were prospectively recorded. Injury incidence rates (IIR) and burden were calculated per 365 athlete‐days, according to sport, sex, and pathway level. Athlete pathway levels were mapped to the Foundations, Talent, Elite, and Mastery (FTEM) framework. Reasons for athletes transitioning out were reported. Four hundred and eighty‐one injuries were reported across 124 athletes at an IIR of 2.09 injuries per 365 athlete‐days (95% CI = 1.91–2.29). Most athletes (103, 83.1%) were injured at least once over the 4‐year period. IIRs increased (IRR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.06–1.29, p = 0.001) as athletes progressed through the pathway. The most common reason for athlete attrition was deselection due to performance (n = 18), with 55.6% of these athletes sustaining an injury in the season prior to deselection. Injury burden was highest at E2 (119.5 days absence per 365 athlete‐days (95% CI = 62.18–229.67)) and lowest at T4 (30.47 days absence per 365 athlete‐days (95% CI = 21.98–42.24)). Injury occurrence is common across HPS, with IIRs increasing as athletes progressed to higher talent levels. Deselection due to poor performance was the main attrition factor, with more than half the deselected athletes impacted by injury prior to deselection. This study highlights an increased risk of deselection, following injury, and indicates the need for further development of prevention strategies targeting pathway athletes.
A case–control study on risk factors for visceral leishmaniasis in West Pokot County, Kenya
Authors: van Dijk Norbert J. , Carter Jane , Kiptanui David , Mens Petra F. , Schallig Henk D. F. H.
Published: September 2024

Background

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a severe parasitic disease transmitted by phlebotomine sandflies. VL is endemic in West Pokot County, Kenya, where effective strategies to interrupt transmission are impeded by the limited understanding of VL risk factors. Therefore, this case–control study aimed to explore environmental, behavioural and household determinants of VL in West Pokot.

Methods

From November 2022 to January 2023, a structured questionnaire was administered to 36 symptomatic primary VL cases attending Kacheliba Sub‐County Hospital in West Pokot and to 50 healthy controls from local villages. The VL status of all participants was confirmed using an rK39 rapid diagnostic test. Associations between questioned determinants and VL were investigated by means of age‐corrected univariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

Significant associations were found between VL and housing characteristics, such as window presence and floor type. VL cases more frequently reported the presence of cattle, dogs and sheep in their house yards. VL was also associated with cutting down trees in the house yard and house proximity to several Acacia tree species. Furthermore, outdoor activities, including travelling outside the residence for more than 2 weeks, activities near termite mounds, and forest activities during the rainy season, increased the risk of VL.

Conclusions

This work reports a number of previously undescribed risk factors for VL in the understudied West Pokot focus. The results suggest VL transmission occurs both peri‐domestically at night and outdoors during the day, particularly when sandfly resting sites are disturbed. Our findings warrant further research into sandfly ecology and potential zoonotic parasite reservoirs in West Pokot.
Classification conjectures for Leavitt path algebras
Authors: Cortiñas Guillermo , Hazrat Roozbeh
Published: September 2024

The theory of Leavitt path algebras is intrinsically related, via graphs, to the theory of symbolic dynamics and ‐algebras where the major classification programs have been a domain of intense research in the last 50 years. In this article, we gather together current lines of research in the classification of Leavitt path algebras, questions, conjectures, and some of the results about them that have been obtained so far.
Regular maps from the lamplighter to metabelian groups
Authors: Gournay Antoine , Le Coz Corentin
Published: September 2024

We prove that the lamplighter group admits an injective Lipschitz map to any finitely generated metabelian group that is not virtually nilpotent. This implies that finitely generated metabelian groups satisfy the “analytically thin/analytically thick” dichotomy recently introduced by Hume, Mackay, and Tessera.
Dark matter searches with levitated sensors
Authors: Kilian Eva , Rademacher Markus , Gosling Jonathan M. H. , Iacoponi Julian H. , Alder Fiona , Toroš Marko , Pontin Antonio , Ghag Chamkaur , Bose Sougato , Monteiro Tania S. , Barker P. F.
Published: September 2024

Motivated by the current interest in employing quantum sensors on Earth and in space to conduct searches for new physics, we provide a perspective on the suitability of large-mass levitated optomechanical systems for observing dark matter signatures. We discuss conservative approaches of recoil detection through spectral analysis of coherently scattered light, enhancements of directional effects due to cross-correlation spectral densities, and the possibility of using quantum superpositions of mesoscopic test particles to measure rare events.
Unveiling the high quantum efficiency of single silicon-vacancy centers through dielectric tuning of their local environment
Authors: Bézard M. , Mindarava Y. , Blinder R. , Trebbia J.-B. , Tamarat P. , Jelezko F. , Lounis B.
Published: September 2024

We use a simple and effective experimental method for determining the radiative quantum yield of single silicon-vacancy centers (SiV) in nanometric-sized diamonds (NDs). It is based on variations in the luminescence lifetimes of SiVs induced by a controlled change in the NDs' dielectric environment. The deposition of a high refractive index immersion oil on a thin polymer sample containing NDs with an average size of 20 nm induces a noticeable shortening of SiV lifetimes, a clear signature of a strong radiative contribution to the decays. While SiV centers were generally considered to be weak quantum emitters, we demonstrate that single SiV centers in nanodiamonds have a quantum efficiency up to 60%, under ambient conditions. This quantum efficiency is very similar to that of the negatively charged nitrogen-vacancy centers, which we measured using the same approach. This feature makes single SiV attractive as bright, high-purity single-photon sources for quantum technologies.
Structural, surface, and upconversion luminescence properties of pulsed laser-deposited Y2O3:Ho3+,Yb3+ thin films
Authors: Makumbane Vhahangwele , Yagoub M. Y. A. , Coetsee E. , Kroon R. E. , Swart H. C.
Published: September 2024

As a potential upconverting layer for solar cell applications, the effect of substrate temperature on the structural, surface, and upconversion (UC) properties of Y2O3:Ho3+,Yb3+ thin films was studied. On soda-lime glass substrates, pulsed laser deposition was used to generate the films. The structural and compositional analyses were performed using x-ray powder diffraction and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The thicknesses of the prepared films were estimated using XPS depth profiles and cross-sectional scanning electron microscopy measurements. The UC and cathodoluminescence emissions revealed green, red, and infrared emission bands from Ho3+ ion transitions observed at 540, 550, 668, and 757 nm, corresponding to the 5F4 → 5I8, 5S2 → 5I8, 5F5 → 5I8, and 5S2 → 5I7 transitions under 980 nm excitation and high-energy electron excitation, respectively. The measurements of power dependency showed that a two-photon step method was used to proceed with the UC emission. Furthermore, the UC energy transfer process was thoroughly explored. The efficient UC emission results suggested that the Y2O3:Ho3+,Yb3+ films can be suitable for solar cell applications.
Fatigue-Related Changes in Running Technique and Mechanical Variables After a Maximal Incremental Test in Recreational Runners
Authors: Borba Edilson Fernando de , Silva Edson Soares da , Alves Lucas de Liz , Neto Adão Ribeiro Da Silva , Inda Augusto Rossa , Ibrahim Bilal Mohamad , Ribas Leonardo Rossato , Correale Luca , Peyré-Tartaruga Leonardo Alexandre , Tartaruga Marcus Peikriszwili
Published: September 2024

Understanding the changes in running mechanics caused by fatigue is essential to assess its impact on athletic performance. Changes in running biomechanics after constant speed conditions are well documented, but the adaptive responses after a maximal incremental test are unknown. We compared the spatiotemporal, joint kinematics, elastic mechanism, and external work parameters before and after a maximal incremental treadmill test. Eighteen recreational runners performed 2-minute runs at 8 km·h−1 before and after a maximal incremental test on a treadmill. Kinematics, elastic parameters, and external work were determined using the OpenCap and OpenSim software. We did not find differences in spatiotemporal parameters and elastic parameters (mechanical work, ankle, and knee motion range) between premaximal and postmaximal test conditions. After the maximal test, the runners flexed their hips more at contact time (19.4°–20.6°, P = .013) and presented a larger range of pelvis rotation at the frontal plane (10.3°–11.4°, P = .002). The fatigue applied in the test directly affects pelvic movements; however, it does not change the lower limb motion or the spatiotemporal and mechanical work parameters in recreational runners. A larger frontal plane motion of the pelvis deserves attention due to biomechanical risk factors associated with injuries.
Protein NMR assignment by isotope pattern recognition
Authors: Rasulov Uluk , Wang Harrison K. , Viennet Thibault , Droemer Maxim A. , Matosin Srđan , Schindler Sebastian , Sun Zhen-Yu J. , Mureddu Luca , Vuister Geerten W. , Robson Scott A. , Arthanari Haribabu , Kuprov Ilya
Published: September 2024

The current standard method for amino acid signal identification in protein NMR spectra is sequential assignment using triple-resonance experiments. Good software and elaborate heuristics exist, but the process remains laboriously manual. Machine learning does help, but its training databases need millions of samples that cover all relevant physics and every kind of instrumental artifact. In this communication, we offer a solution to this problem. We propose polyadic decompositions to store millions of simulated three-dimensional NMR spectra, on-the-fly generation of artifacts during training, a probabilistic way to incorporate prior and posterior information, and integration with the industry standard CcpNmr software framework. The resulting neural nets take [
1
H,
13
C] slices of mixed pyruvate–labeled HNCA spectra (different CA signal shapes for different residue types) and return an amino acid probability table. In combination with primary sequence information, backbones of common proteins (GB1, MBP, and INMT) are rapidly assigned from just the HNCA spectrum.
Stretchable and biodegradable self-healing conductors for multifunctional electronics
Authors: Jang Tae-Min , Han Won Bae , Han Seungkeun , Dutta Ankan , Lim Jun Hyeon , Kim Taekyung , Lim Bong Hee , Ko Gwan-Jin , Shin Jeong-Woong , Kaveti Rajaram , Kang Heeseok , Eom Chan-Hwi , Choi So Jeong , Bandodkar Amay J. , Lee Kyu-Sung , Park Eunkyoung , Cheng Huanyu , Yeo Woon-Hong , Hwang Suk-Won
Published: September 2024

As the regenerative mechanisms of biological organisms, self-healing provides useful functions for soft electronics or associated systems. However, there have been few examples of soft electronics where all components have self-healing properties while also ensuring compatibility between components to achieve multifunctional and resilient bio-integrated electronics. Here, we introduce a stretchable, biodegradable, self-healing conductor constructed by combination of two layers: (i) synthetic self-healing elastomer and (ii) self-healing conductive composite with additives. Abundant dynamic disulfide and hydrogen bonds of the elastomer and conductive composite enable rapid and complete recovery of electrical conductivity (~1000 siemens per centimeter) and stretchability (~500%) in response to repetitive damages, and chemical interactions of interpenetrated polymer chains of these components facilitate robust adhesion strength, even under extreme mechanical stress. System-level demonstration of soft, self-healing electronics with diagnostic/therapeutic functions for the urinary bladder validates the possibility for versatile, practical uses in biomedical research areas.
ARL3 GTPases facilitate ODA16 unloading from IFT in motile cilia
Authors: Huang Yameng , Dong Xiaoduo , Sun Stella Y. , Lim Teck-Kwang , Lin Qingsong , He Cynthia Y.
Published: September 2024

Eukaryotic cilia and flagella are essential for cell motility and sensory functions. Their biogenesis and maintenance rely on the intraflagellar transport (IFT). Several cargo adapters have been identified to aid IFT cargo transport, but how ciliary cargos are discharged from the IFT remains largely unknown. During our explorations of small GTPases ARL13 and ARL3 in
Trypanosoma brucei
, we found that ODA16, a known IFT cargo adapter present exclusively in motile cilia, is a specific effector of ARL3. In the cilia, active ARL3 GTPases bind to ODA16 and dissociate ODA16 from the IFT complex. Depletion of ARL3 GTPases stabilizes ODA16 interaction with the IFT, leading to ODA16 accumulation in cilia and defects in axonemal assembly. The interactions between human ODA16 homolog HsDAW1 and ARL GTPases are conserved, and these interactions are altered in HsDAW1 disease variants. These findings revealed a conserved function of ARL GTPases in IFT transport of motile ciliary components, and a mechanism of cargo unloading from the IFT.
A skin-interfaced microfluidic platform supports dynamic sweat biochemical analysis during human exercise
Authors: Cho Soongwon , Shaban Samy M. , Song Ruihao , Zhang Haohui , Yang Dasom , Kim Min-Jae , Xiong Yirui , Li Xiuyuan , Madsen Kenneth , Wapnick Sarena , Zhang Shifan , Chen Ziyu , Kim Jiwon , Guinto Gianna , Li Michelle , Lee Minkyu , Nuxoll Ravi F. , Shajari Shaghayegh , Wang Jin , Son Seongeun , Shin Jihoon , Aranyosi Alexander J. , Wright Donald E. , Kim Tae-il , Ghaffari Roozbeh , Huang Yonggang , Kim Dong-Hwan , Rogers John A.
Published: September 2024

Blood lactate concentration is an established circulating biomarker for measuring muscle acidity and can be evaluated for monitoring endurance, training routines, or athletic performance. Sweat is an alternative biofluid that may serve similar purposes and offers the advantage of noninvasive collection and continuous monitoring. The relationship between blood lactate and dynamic sweat biochemistry for wearable engineering applications in physiological fitness remains poorly defined. Here, we developed a microfluidic wearable band with an integrated colorimetric timer and biochemical assays that temporally captures sweat and measures pH and lactate concentration. A colorimetric silver nanoplasmonic assay was used to measure the concentration of lactate, and dye-conjugated SiO
2
nanoparticle–agarose composite materials supported dynamic pH analysis. We evaluated these sweat biomarkers in relation to blood lactate in human participant studies during cycling exercise of varying intensity. Iontophoresis-generated sweat pH from regions of actively working muscles decreased with increasing heart rate during exercise and was negatively correlated with blood lactate concentration. In contrast, sweat pH from nonworking muscles did not correlate with blood lactate concentration. Changes in sweat pH and blood lactate were observed in participants who did not regularly exercise but not in individuals who regularly exercised, suggesting a relationship to physical fitness and supporting further development for noninvasive, biochemical fitness evaluations.
The HmrABCX pathway regulates the transition between motile and sessile lifestyles in
Caulobacter crescentus
by a mechanism independent of
hfiA
transcription
Authors: Zappa Sébastien , Berne Cécile , Morton III Robert I. , Whitfield Gregory B. , De Stercke Jonathan , Brun Yves V.
Published: September 2024

During its cell cycle, the bacterium
Caulobacter crescentus
switches from a motile, free-living state, to a sessile surface-attached cell. During this coordinated process, cells undergo irreversible morphological changes, such as shedding of their polar flagellum and synthesis of an adhesive holdfast at the same pole. In this work, we used genetic screens to identify genes involved in the regulation of the transition from the motile to the sessile lifestyle. We identified a predicted hybrid histidine kinase that inhibits biofilm formation and promotes the motile lifestyle: HmrA (
h
oldfast and
m
otility
r
egulator A). Genetic screens and genomic localization led to the identification of additional genes that form a putative phosphorelay pathway with HmrA. We postulate that the Hmr pathway acts as a rheostat to control the proportion of cells harboring a flagellum or a holdfast in the population. Further genetic analysis suggests that the Hmr pathway impacts c-di-GMP synthesis through the diguanylate cyclase DgcB pathway. Our results also indicate that the Hmr pathway is involved in the regulation of motile to sessile lifestyle transition as a function of various environmental factors: biofilm formation is repressed when excess copper is present and derepressed under non-optimal temperatures. Finally, we provide evidence that the Hmr pathway regulates motility and adhesion without modulating the transcription of the holdfast synthesis regulator HfiA.

IMPORTANCE

Complex communities attached to a surface, or biofilms, represent the major lifestyle of bacteria in the environment. Such a sessile state enables the inhabitants to be more resistant to adverse environmental conditions. Thus, having a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms that regulate the transition between the motile and the sessile states could help design strategies to improve biofilms when they are beneficial or impede them when they are detrimental. For
Caulobacter crescentus
motile cells, the transition to the sessile lifestyle is irreversible, and this decision is regulated at several levels. In this work, we describe a putative phosphorelay that promotes the motile lifestyle and inhibits biofilm formation, providing new insights into the control of adhesin production that leads to the formation of biofilms.
Complete genome sequences of
Enterococcus casseliflavus
strains ASE2 and ASE4 generated by PacBio sequencing
Authors: Tran Thao D. , Lee SangIn , Hnasko Robert , McGarvey Jeffery A.
Published: September 2024

Enterococcus casseliflavus
strains ASE2 and ASE4 were isolated from the soil of a lettuce farm in Salinas, California, in 2020. Their complete genome sequences were generated by the PacBio Sequel II platform. They both consist of a single circular chromosome without plasmids.
Complete genome assembly of
Candida auris
representative strains of three geographical clades
Authors: Mahar Nirmal Singh , Kohli Surbhi , Biswas Biswambhar , Xess Immaculata , Thakur Anil , Gupta Ishaan
Published: September 2024

The complete genome assembly of
Candida auris
strains B11103, B11221, and B11244 is reported in this manuscript. These strains represent the three geographical clades, namely, South Asian (Clade I), South African (Clade III), and South American (Clade IV).
A quantitative approach to measure and predict microbiome response to antibiotics
Authors: Tu Vincent , Ren Yue , Tanes Ceylan , Mukhopadhyay Sagori , Daniel Scott G. , Li Hongzhe , Bittinger Kyle
Published: September 2024

Although antibiotics induce sizable perturbations in the human microbiome, we lack a systematic and quantitative method to measure and predict the microbiome's response to specific antibiotics. Here, we introduce such a method, which takes the form of a microbiome response index (MiRIx) for each antibiotic. Antibiotic-specific MiRIx values quantify the overall susceptibility of the microbiota to an antibiotic, based on databases of bacterial phenotypes and published data on intrinsic antibiotic susceptibility. We applied our approach to five published microbiome studies that carried out antibiotic interventions with vancomycin, metronidazole, ciprofloxacin, amoxicillin, and doxycycline. We show how MiRIx can be used in conjunction with existing microbiome analytical approaches to gain a deeper understanding of the microbiome response to antibiotics. Finally, we generate antibiotic response predictions for the oral, skin, and gut microbiome in healthy humans. Our approach is implemented as open-source software and is readily applied to microbiome data sets generated by 16S rRNA marker gene sequencing or shotgun metagenomics.

IMPORTANCE

Antibiotics are potent influencers of the human microbiome and can be a source for enduring dysbiosis and antibiotic resistance in healthcare. Existing microbiome data analysis methods can quantify perturbations of bacterial communities but cannot evaluate whether the differences are aligned with the expected activity of a specific antibiotic. Here, we present a novel method to quantify and predict antibiotic-specific microbiome changes, implemented in a ready-to-use software package. This has the potential to be a critical tool to broaden our understanding of the relationship between the microbiome and antibiotics.
Disseminated MDR-TB missed in a patient treated with TNF inhibitor
Authors: Hansen Sophie Dam Harmundal , Rudolf Frauke , Gregersen Nina Schram , Norman Anders
Published: September 2024

A previously healthy man developed pulmonary symptoms 2 weeks after starting treatment with a tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor. A negative interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) test was obtained prior to TNF inhibitor exposure, without consideration of the fact that the patient was already immunosuppressed and had a previous positive IGRA test 17 months earlier. The patient was treated for pneumonia twice but did not achieve remission. His physical health progressively deteriorated over the following months. Malignancy was suspected but not found. Eight months after the onset of symptoms,Mycobacterium tuberculosiswas found in samples from mediastinal lymph nodes, and the patient was diagnosed with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB).

This case illustrates the diagnostic challenge of TB, the need to raise awareness of the increased risk of TB in patients treated with TNF inhibitors and the need to increase knowledge regarding the effect of immunosuppressive agents on IGRA tests.
Massive cerebral tuberculomas, Pott’s disease and hypercalcaemia secondary toMycobacterium bovisin a patient with chronic kidney disease on peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Alamilla-Sanchez Mario , Gonzalez-Fuentes Carolina , Diaz Garcia Juan Daniel , Velasco Garcia Lascurain Francisco
Published: September 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) is still a health problem in developing countries. Pulmonary involvement remains the most common clinical presentation. However, multiorgan involvement can be life-threatening. We present the case of a young woman on peritoneal dialysis who was admitted to hospitalisation for hypercalcaemia and low back pain. In his biochemical evaluation, suppressed intact parthyroid hormone (iPTH) and elevated 1,25-hydroxyvitamin D were detected. On a lumbar CT scan, a hypodense lesion in vertebral bodies compatible with Pott’s disease was found. Positive cultures forMycobacterium boviswere obtained in bronchoalveolar lavage and peritoneal fluid, for which specific treatment was initiated. Due to neurological deterioration, a CT scan was performed showing the presence of multiple tuberculomas. Retrospectively, the lack of an etiological diagnosis of chronic kidney disease, the initiation of dialysis 8 months before and the clear evidence of long-standing TB strongly suggest mycobacterium infection as the cause or trigger for the rapid decline in kidney function.
Meta-analysis and systematic review of the diagnostic value of contrast-enhanced spectral mammography for the detection of breast cancer
Authors: Liu Jiulin , Xiao Ran , Yin Huijia , Hu Ying , Zhen Siyu , Zhou Shihao , Han Dongming
Published: September 2024

Objective

The objective is to evaluate the diagnostic effectiveness of contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM) in the diagnosis of breast cancer.

Design

Data sources

PubMed, Embase and Cochrane libraries up to 18 June 2022.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

We included trials studies, compared the results of different researchers on CESM in the diagnosis of breast cancer, and calculated the diagnostic value of CESM for breast cancer.

Data extraction and synthesis

Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 (QUADAS-2) evaluated the methodological quality of all the included studies. The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses specification. In addition to sensitivity and specificity, other important parameters were explored in an analysis of CESM accuracy for breast cancer diagnosis. For overall accuracy estimation, summary receiver operating characteristic curves were calculated. STATA V.14.0 was used for all analyses.

Results

This meta-analysis included a total of 12 studies. According to the summary estimates for CESM in the diagnosis of breast cancer, the pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.97 (95% CI 0.92 to 0.98) and 0.76 (95% CI 0.64 to 0.85), respectively. Positive likelihood ratio was 4.03 (95% CI 2.65 to 6.11), negative likelihood ratio was 0.05 (95% CI 0.02 to 0.09) and the diagnostic odds ratio was 89.49 (95% CI 45.78 to 174.92). Moreover, there was a 0.95 area under the curve.

Conclusions

The CESM has high sensitivity and good specificity when it comes to evaluating breast cancer, particularly in women with dense breasts. Thus, provide more information for clinical diagnosis and treatment.
Association between apathy and caregiver burden in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Gong Zhenxiang , Deng Wenhua , Li Zehui , Tang Jiahui , Zhang Min
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To investigate the relationship among patients’ apathy, cognitive impairment, depression, anxiety, and caregiver burden in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Design

A cross-sectional study design was used.

Setting

The study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Wuhan, Hubei, China.

Participants

A total of 109 patients with ALS and their caregivers were included.

Outcome measures

Patients with ALS were screened using the Edinburgh Cognitive and Behavioural Screen, Beck Depression Inventory-II, Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7 and Apathy Scale to assess their cognition, depression, anxiety and apathy, respectively. The primary caregivers completed the Zarit Burden Interview. The association between apathy, cognitive impairment, depression, anxiety and caregiver burden was analysed using logistic regression. Mediation models were employed to investigate the mediating effect of patients’ apathy on the relationship between depression/anxiety and caregiver burden.

Results

Patients in the high caregiver burden group exhibited significantly higher levels of depression, anxiety and apathy compared with those in the low caregiver burden group (p<0.05). There was a positive association observed between caregiver burden and disease course (rs=0.198, p<0.05), depression (rs=0.189, p<0.05), anxiety (rs=0.257, p<0.05) and apathy (rs=0.388, p<0.05). There was a negative association between caregiver burden and the Revised ALS Functional Rating Scale (rs=−0.275, p<0.05). Apathy was an independent risk factor for higher caregiver burden (OR 1.121, 95% CI 1.041 to 1.206, p<0.05). Apathy fully mediated the relationship between depression and caregiver burden (β=0.35, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.54, p<0.05) while partially mediating the relationship between anxiety and caregiver burden (β=0.34, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.52, p<0.05).

Conclusions

Apathy, depression and anxiety exerted a detrimental impact on caregiver burden in individuals with ALS. Apathy played a mediating role in the relationship between depression and caregiver burden and between anxiety and caregiver burden. These findings underscore the importance of identifying apathy and developing interventions for its management within the context of ALS.
Association between methylphenidate use and long-term cardiovascular risk in paediatric patients with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Liao Heng-Ching , Hsu Chien-Ning , Lin Fang-Ju , Gau Susan Shur-Fen , Wang Chi-Chuan
Published: September 2024

Background

There have been concerns about the potential cardiovascular (CV) adverse effects associated with methylphenidate (MTH) use. However, only limited evidence exists on the long-term safety of MTH.

Objective

To evaluate whether MTH use is associated with long-term CV risk.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study using 2003–2017 data from the Health and Welfare Database in Taiwan. Patients newly diagnosed with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and between 3 and 18 years of age were included. Two treatment statuses were assessed: initial treatment ≥7 days and ≥180 days. Patients treated with MTH were compared with those receiving non-medication therapy. One-to-one propensity score matching was used to balance between-group differences. Study outcomes included major CV events, chronic CV disease, cardiogenic shock and all-cause mortality. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate HRs between the two groups.

Results

We began with 307 459 patients with ADHD. After exclusion, 224 732 patients were included in the final cohort. The results showed that compared with non-ADHD medication users, patients who were treated with MTH for more than 7 days had a similar risk of major CV events (HR 0.85, 95% CI 0.72 to 0.99; p=0.040). Identical trends were found in groups who were treated for more than 180 days (HR 0.83, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.00; p=0.050). The results of the sensitivity analyses were consistent with the main analyses across all groups and individual outcomes.

Conclusion

Short-term MTH use did not increase CV risk among patients with ADHD. More evidence on long-term MTH use and risk of cardiogenic shock and death is warranted.
Inequalities in access to and outcomes of cardiac surgery in England: retrospective analysis of Hospital Episode Statistics (2010–2019)
Authors: Lai Florence Y , Gibbison Ben , O’Cathain Alicia , Akowuah Enoch , Cleland John G , Angelini Gianni D , King Christina , Murphy Gavin J , Pufulete Maria
Published: September 2024

Background

We aimed to characterise the variation in access to and outcomes of cardiac surgery for people in England.

Methods

We included people >18 years of age with hospital admission for ischaemic heart disease (IHD) and heart valve disease (HVD) between 2010 and 2019. Within these populations, we identified people who had coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) and/or valve surgery, respectively. We fitted logistic regression models to examine the effects of age, sex, ethnicity and socioeconomic deprivation on having access to surgery and in-hospital mortality, 1-year mortality and hospital readmission.

Results

We included 292 140 people, of whom 28% were women, 11% were from an ethnic minority and 17% were from the most deprived areas. Across all types of surgery, one in five people are readmitted to hospital within 1 year, rising to almost one in four for valve surgery. Women, black people and people living in the most deprived areas were less likely to have access to surgery (CABG: 59%, 32% and 35% less likely; valve: 31%, 33% and 39% less likely, respectively) and more likely to die within 1 year of surgery (CABG: 24%, 85% and 18% more likely, respectively; valve: 19% (women) and 10% (people from most deprived areas) more likely).

Conclusions

Female sex, black ethnicity and economic deprivation are independently associated with limited access to cardiac surgery and higher post-surgery mortality. Actions are required to address these inequalities.
Observational study of the effects of maximal oxygen uptake on cognitive function and performance during prolonged military exercise
Authors: Helge Torbjörn , Windahl M , Björkman F
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Military operations place high demands on many cognitive functions, and stressful events characterise the military work environment. The study aimed to examine the relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness, stress response, cognitive function and military performance during prolonged military exercise.

Methods

66 army cadets were included in the study. The subjects participated in a 4.5-day military winter training in northern Sweden. Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) was estimated from a cycle test. Cognitive tests (design fluency, DF test) and measurements of heart rate variability (HRV) were conducted before and after the exercise. Assessment of military performance as an individual soldier (P-ind) and performance as a team leader (P-lead) was carried out during the final day of the exercise. Pearson’s coefficient of correlation (r) and Spearman’s rho were used to evaluate correlations, and linear regressions were used to examine the relationships between VO2max, HRV, DF test scores and military performance. Simple mediation analyses were performed with DF test scores and military performance (P-ind, P-lead) as dependent variables, VO2max as a predictor and HRV as a mediator.

Results

Post-exercise HRV was related to military performance (P-ind:r=0.40, p<0.01; P-lead:r=0.32, p<0.05). Absolute VO2max was positively correlated with P-ind (r=0.28, p<0.05), and the effect of VO2max on military performance was mediated by HRV. Post-test DF scores were negatively correlated with post-exercise HRV (total correct designs:r=−0.26, p<0.05; total incorrect designs:r=−0.27, p<0.05).

Conclusions

Results suggest that high absolute VO2max predicts military performance by reducing the stress response to prolonged military exercise. Aerobic capacity may provide a meaningful effect on the ability to preserve military performance. Future studies need to identify thresholds for this capacity.

Pre-registration

The protocol was retrospectively registered at OSF (https://osf.io/), registration DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/ND6XM.
Dynamical reconstruction of the $$\Lambda $$CDM model in hybrid metric-Palatini gravity
Authors: Rosa João Luís
Published: September 2024

In this work, we apply the formalism of dynamical systems to analyze the viability of the $$\Lambda $$
Λ
CDM model in a generalized form of the hybrid metric-Palatini gravity theory written in terms of its dynamically equivalent scalar–tensor representation. Adopting a matter distribution composed of two relativistic fluids described by the equations of state of radiation and pressureless dust, one verifies that the cosmological phase space features the usual curvature-dominated, radiation-dominated, matter-dominated, and exponentially accelerated fixed points, even in the absence of a dark energy component. A numerical integration of the dynamical equations describing the system, subjected to initial conditions consistent with the cosmographic observations from the Planck satellite and weak-field solar system dynamics, shows that cosmological solutions mimicking the behavior of the $$\Lambda $$
Λ
CDM model in General Relativity (GR) are attainable in this theory, with the deviations from GR being exponentially suppressed at early-times and the scalar-field potential effectively playing the role of dark energy at late times.
Probing the spatial distribution of gluons within the proton in the coherent vector meson production at large-|t|
Authors: Gonçalves Victor P. , Moreira Bruno D. , Santana Luana
Published: September 2024

The coherent production of vector mesons in photon–hadron interactions is considered one of the most promising observables to probe the QCD dynamics at high energies and the transverse spatial distribution of the gluons in the hadron wave function. In this paper, we perform an exploratory study about the dependence of the transverse momentum distributions, $$d\sigma /dt$$

d
σ
/
d
t

, on the model assumed for the proton density profile. We consider a set of non-Gaussian profiles and include them in the forward dipole–proton scattering amplitude associated with the IP-sat model. We demonstrate that the predictions for $$d\sigma /dt$$

d
σ
/
d
t

are similar in the HERA kinematical range, but are very distinct for values of t that will be probed in future colliders. In particular, the presence of diffractive dips in the t-distributions associated with the production of $$J/\Psi $$

J
/
Ψ

and $$\rho $$
ρ
mesons is strongly dependent on the model assumed for the density profile. Similar conclusions are also derived when the non-linear effects on the dipole–target interaction are disregarded. Our results indicate that a future study of the coherent vector meson production at large-t will be useful to constrain the spatial distribution of gluons within the proton.
ANALYSIS OF PROCESS PARAMETERS ON SURFACE ALTERATION OF TI6AL4V DENTAL IMPLANTS VIA HA-MIXED-EDCLT
Authors: SINGH A. K. , MALIK A. , MALI H. S.
Published: September 2024

Titanium is a highly operational alloy for use in dental implants. Surface inertness of the titanium alloy surfaces reduces osseointegrate, raising concerns about implant loosening. Hydroxyapatite (HA)-rich porous titanium surfaces with moderated surface roughness have better osteoconductivity. This study focused on the surface alteration of Ti6Al4V via hydroxyapatite mixed electric discharge-assisted centerless turning (HA-mixed-EDCLT) to find the optimum surface. The experiments were planned based on a four-factor, three-level Box-Behnken design. HA-powder concentration (Cp), revolutions per minute (RPM), duty factor and impulse current (IP) were the input parameters. The Ra value of machined surfaces ranged from 1.12[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m to 1.63[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m, which is in the bone growth supportive implants range. The average hardness reached 415.8–962.7[Formula: see text]HV, where untreated surfaces’ hardness was [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]HV. Porous, hydrophilic coating with a high Ca, P, and O content deposited on the implant surfaces supports the biocompatibility of implants. Analysis of the elements and compounds shows that the machined surface layer is rich with Ca3(PO[Formula: see text] and TiO[Formula: see text]which improves the bioactivity of the alloy.
How Insect Exocrine Glands Work
Authors: Foster Stephen P. , Casas Jérȏme
Published: September 2024

Exocrine glands release a secretion to the body surface or into a lumen and are likely to be found in all insect taxa. Their secretions are diverse, serving many physiological, behavioral, and defensive functions. Much research has characterized gland structure and secretion identity and function, but little research has attempted to understand how these glands work to release secretion amounts in a timescale appropriate to function: How are some (e.g., physiological) secretions released in small amounts over long times, while others (e.g., defense) are released in large amounts infrequently? We describe a qualitative model, comprising intracellular, extracellular, and external compartments for secretion storage; rates of movement of secretion from one compartment to the next; physicochemical properties of secretions; and controlling behaviors, which may explain the release dynamics of secretions from these glands. It provides a template for quantitative dynamic studies investigating the operation, control, release, and biomimetics of exocrine glands.