bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Addressing disparities: A systematic review of digital health equity for adolescent obesity prevention and management interventions
Authors: Partridge Stephanie R. , Knight Amber , Todd Allyson , McGill Bronwyn , Wardak Sara , Alston Laura , Livingstone Katherine M. , Singleton Anna , Thornton Louise , Jia Sisi , Redfern Julie , Raeside Rebecca
Published: September 2024

Adolescence is a high‐risk life stage for obesity. Digital strategies are needed to prevent and manage obesity among adolescents. We assessed if digital health interventions are contributing to disparities in obesity outcomes and assessed the adequacy of reporting of digital health equity criteria across four levels of influence within the digital environment. The systematic search was conducted on 10 major electronic databases and limited to randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or cluster‐RCTs for prevention or management of obesity among 10–19 year olds. Primary outcome was mean body mass index (BMI), or BMI z‐score change. The Adapted Digital Health Equity Assessment Framework was applied to all studies. Thirty‐three articles (27 unique studies with 8483 participants) were identified, with only eight studies targeting adolescents from disadvantaged populations. Post‐intervention, only three studies reported significantly lower BMI outcomes in the intervention compared to control. Of the 432 digital health equity criteria assessed across 27 studies, 82% of criteria were “not addressed.” Studies are not addressing digital health equity criteria or inadequately reporting information to assess if digital health interventions are contributing to disparities in obesity outcomes. Enhanced reporting is needed to inform decision‐makers and support the development of equitable interventions to prevent and manage obesity among adolescents.
The change in food service costs associated with increasing the healthiness of ready‐to‐eat food provision: A systematic scoping review
Authors: Naughton Shaan S. , al Subhi Moosa , Boelsen‐Robinson Tara , Blake Miranda R. , Ananthapavan Jaithri , Peeters Anna
Published: September 2024

Increasing the healthiness of food retail environments is an identified mechanism to help halt rising rates of diet‐related non‐communicable diseases. Previous studies on healthy food environment adoption report that retailers' perceptions of loss of profitability and higher food costs are often barriers to change. Despite this, actual changes to profitability and food costs have not been fully explored. This study aimed to systematically scope the evidence relating to changes to food costs or profitability when changes are made to increase the healthiness of food and drinks sold by food service retailers. Nine databases were searched, with studies included from settings that sold ready‐to‐consume items, with interventions to increase the healthiness of menus, and reporting food environment/nutrition outcomes, and cost/profit outcomes. Of the 12 studies included, the majority were conducted in the United States and in school settings. Most studies indicated that increasing the healthiness of food service retail environments resulted in neutral or favorable financial outcomes. Food costs and/or profit changes were most often monitored via simple accounting measures. While further research is needed to strengthen the evidence on financial outcomes of healthier food provision, this review indicates that some perceived barriers to change may not be warranted.
The SET‐Domain‐Containing Protein MdSDG26 Negatively Regulates Alternaria alternata Resistance in Apple
Authors: Shen Wenyun , Zhang Dehui , Zhang Zitong , He Jieqiang , Khalil Arij , Li Xuewei , Ma Fengwang , Guan Qingmei , Niu Chundong
Published: September 2024

Apple leaf spot is one of the most devastating diseases in the apple industry, caused by Alternaria alternata f. sp mali (A. alternata). SET‐domain group (SDG) proteins function as the histone methyltransferases and participate in plant development and stress responses. However, whether SDG proteins are associated with A. alternata resistance is largely unclear. Here, we describe the pathogen‐inducible MdSDG26 gene in apple (Malus × domestica). MdSDG26 has two transcript variants that function similarly in catalyzing histone methylation and A. alternata resistance. Transient overexpression of MdSDG26 increased the global levels of H3K4me3 and H3K36me3, whereas knockdown of MdSDG26 only reduced the H3K36me3 level. Transcriptome analysis revealed that MdSDG26 affected the genome‐wide transcriptome changes in response to A. alternata infection. ChIP‐qPCR analysis demonstrated that MdSDG26 modulates the levels of H3K36me3 and H3K4me3 at both the promoter and exon regions of MdNTL9. As a negative regulator of A. alternata resistance in apples, MdNTL9 plays a pivotal role in MdSDG26‐mediated resistance to A. alternata. Therefore, our findings provide compelling evidence for the regulatory function of MdSDG26 in histone methylation and its molecular role in conferring resistance to A. alternata.
OsRHS Negatively Regulates Rice Heat Tolerance at the Flowering Stage by Interacting With the HSP Protein cHSP70‐4
Authors: Mao Xingxue , Yu Hang , Xue Jiao , Zhang Lanlan , Zhu Qingfeng , Lv Shuwei , Feng Yanzhao , Jiang Liqun , Zhang Jing , Sun Bingrui , Yu Yang , Li Chen , Ma Yamei , Liu Qing
Published: September 2024

Heat stress at the flowering stage significantly impacts rice grain yield, yet the number of identified genes associated with rice heat tolerance at this crucial stage remains limited. This study focuses on elucidating the function of the heat‐induced gene reduced heat stress tolerance 1 (OsRHS). Overexpression of OsRHS leads to reduced heat tolerance, while RNAi silencing or knockout of OsRHS enhances heat tolerance without compromising yield, as assessed by the seed setting rate. OsRHS is localized in the cytoplasm and mainly expressed in the glume and anther of spikelet. Moreover, OsRHS was found to interact with the HSP protein cHSP70‐4, and the knockout of cHSP70‐4 resulted in increased heat tolerance. Complementation assays revealed that the knockout of cHSP70‐4 could restore the compromised heat tolerance in OsRHS overexpression plants. Additional investigation reveals that elevated temperatures can amplify the bond between OsRHS and cHSP70‐4 within rice. Furthermore, our findings indicate that under heat stress conditions during the flowering stage, OsRHS plays a negative regulatory role in the expression of many stress‐related genes. These findings unveil the crucial involvement of OsRHS and cHSP70‐4 in modulating heat tolerance in rice and identify novel target genes for enhancing heat resilience during the flowering phase in rice.
Prognostic factors for wellbeing in patients with hyaline fibromatosis syndrome
Authors: Futagawa Hiroshi , Ito Shiho , Hosoi Kenji , Tamada Ikkei , Ogata Kiyokazu , Fukuda Kentaro , Yamanaka Haruka , Kuroda Maho , Suda Chiharu , Shimizu Kenji , Yoshihashi Hiroshi
Published: September 2024

Background

Hyaline fibromatosis syndrome (HFS) is a congenital disorder characterized by subcutaneous skin nodules, congenital multiple arthrogryposis, gingival hyperplasia, and chronic pain. The intellectual ability of patients with HFS is generally normal. This syndrome arises from variants of ANTXR2. Thus far, about 100 cases have been reported but few of these were reported from Japan.

Methods

This study reports five additional Japanese patients with genetically confirmed HFS, from unrelatd families, and discusses the clinical course and quality of life of these patients.

Results

At our last visit the ages of the patients were 3–19 years (the median age was 5 years). All the patients had arthrogryposis, skin nodules, and gingival hyperplasia, and four patients had chronic pain, all of which are distinctive, clinical characteristics of HFS. Four of the patients (80%) had pruritic skin nodules, and three experienced sleep disruptions due to pruritis. The visceral complications are an index of HFS severity. One patient in the present cohort had a mucosal abnormality without any gastrointestinal symptoms.

Conclusion

Preventive and routine management of pruritis caused by skin nodules should be shared with the patient's family. Even asymptomatic patients might have endoscopic finding, which would be a soft marker that could predict the development of protein losing enteropathy.
Technological disasters in Asia: Epidemiological profile from the year 2000 to 2021
Authors: Fernández García Andrea , Gan Rick Kye , Cernuda Martínez José Antonio , Arcos González Pedro
Published: September 2024

Background

Technological disasters in Asia have significant public health and environmental implications, but there is limited epidemiological analysis of these events. This study aims to characterize the epidemiological profile of technological disasters in Asia from 2000 to 2021, focusing on morbidity and mortality trends.

Methods

A retrospective descriptive observational analysis was conducted using data from emergency events database (EM‐DAT), DesInventar, NatCAt, and Sigma. The study categorized disasters into transport, industrial, and miscellaneous accidents. Statistical analyses were used to examine frequencies, trends, and correlations among the different disaster types.

Results

From 2000 to 2021, Asia experienced 2333 technological disasters, with transport accidents being the most frequent (55.77%), followed by industrial (26.10%) and miscellaneous accidents (18.13%). The overall trend showed a statistically significant decrease in the frequency of these disasters and in average mortality and injury rates. The study highlighted the varying impact of different disaster types, with industrial accidents causing the highest fatality and affected rates despite being less frequent than transport accidents.

Conclusions

The study indicates a declining trend in the frequency and severity of technological disasters in Asia, reflecting improved safety measures and disaster management. However, the high impact of industrial accidents underscores the need for targeted prevention strategies.
The growth‐promoting effects of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens W82T‐44 on soybean and its biocontrol potential against soybean Phytophthora root rot
Authors: Liu Haixu , Zhang Zhuoqun , Xu Ying , Du Xiuming , Wen Jingzhi
Published: September 2024

The most devastating soilborne disease of soybean is Phytophthora root rot (PRR) caused by Phytophthora sojae. Biological control has emerged as an effective method of reducing soilborne diseases. The present study isolated the bacterial strain W82T‐44 from the rhizosphere soil of a resistant soybean variety Williams 82. This strain was identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and exhibited a 92.4% inhibition of mycelial growth of P. sojae. W82T‐44 produced cellulase, siderophore and protease and significantly promoted soybean growth. W82T‐44 treatment, compared to the negative control, was found to significantly (p < 0.05) increase soybean plant height (22.34 vs. 18.47 cm), fresh weight of the whole plant (2.57 vs. 2.05 g), dry weight (0.43 vs. 0.32 g), total root length (266.80 vs. 182.53 cm), root area (27.10 vs. 17.84 cm2) and root volume (1.88 vs. 1.16 cm3). The fermentation filtrate of W82T‐44 had significant inhibitory effects on mycelial growth, oospore formation and cyst germination in P. sojae and additionally promoted zoospore encystment. W82T‐44 possessed genes involved in lipopeptide synthesis, including bacilysin, surfactin, fengycin and bacillomycin. Moreover, it significantly upregulated pathogenesis‐related genes (β‐1,3‐glucanase, nonexpressor of pathogenesis‐related gene 1, chitinase) and genes encoding defence enzymes (polyphenol oxidase, phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase, peroxidase) in soybean roots (p < 0.05). The PRR disease index of soybean treated with the W82T‐44 strain was significantly lower (11.67) than the negative control (40.00; p < 0.05). The present study indicates the potential of B. amyloliquefaciens W82T‐44 as a biological control agent against PRR from various perspectives.
A comparison of several separation processes for eggshell membrane powder as a natural biomaterial for skin regeneration
Authors: Esmaeili Samaneh , Rahmati Majid , Zamani Sepehr , Djalilian Ali R. , Arabpour Zohreh , Salehi Majid
Published: September 2024

Background

Numerous studies have focused on skin damage, the most prevalent physical injury, aiming to improve wound healing. The exploration of biomaterials, specifically eggshell membranes (ESMs), is undertaken to accelerate the recovery of skin injuries. The membrane must be separated from the shell to make this biomaterial usable. Hence, this investigation aimed to identify more about the methods for membrane isolation and determine the most efficient one for usage as a biomaterial.

Methods and materials

For this purpose, ESM was removed from eggs using different protocols (with sodium carbonate, acetic acid, HCl, calcium carbonate, and using forceps for separation). Consequently, we have examined the membranes' mechanical and morphological qualities.

Results

According to the analysis of microscopic surface morphology, the membranes have appropriate porosity. MTT assay also revealed that the membranes have no cytotoxic effect on 3T3 cells. The results indicated that the ESM had acquired acceptable coagulation and was compatible with blood. Based on the obtained results, Provacol 4 (0.5‐mol HCl and neutralized with 0.1‐mol NaOH) was better than other methods of extraction and eggshell separation because it was more cell‐compatible and more compatible with blood.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that ESMs can be used as a suitable biomaterial in medical applications.
Global hotspots and trends in Acanthosis nigricans research: A bibliometric and visualized analysis
Authors: Zhang Shaobo , Yan Huixin , Sun Weichen , Li Jingnan , Xu Jing , Cao Di , Song Bailin , Wu Xingquan
Published: September 2024

Background

Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a common skin disease characterized by clear pigmented patches on the folds of the skin. However, the AN research field lacks scientific and comprehensive bibliometric analysis. This article aims to use bibliometric methods to summarize and visualize the distribution patterns, research hotspots, and development trends of AN literature.

Methods

Literature from 1900 to 2024 was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database through AN's thematic search. Using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and Excel 2019, conduct a comprehensive analysis of the number of publications, countries/regions, institutions, authors, journals, highly cited literature, keywords, and so on, and sort out the hotspots and directions of AN.

Results

From 1900 to 2024, 1675 publications were included in the bibliometric analysis, showing a steady annual increase in the number of publications. The United States leads in this research field, with the University of Texas System being a key research institution. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism has the highest number of published papers. The most cited article is “Syndromes of Insulin Resistance and Acanthosis Nigricans: Insulin‐Receptor Disorders in Man” (1976). The author Taylor, SI, has published the most papers. “Acanthosis nigricans” is the most frequently occurring keyword. The main research hotspots and frontier areas in AN research are as follows: (1) The relationship between AN and other diseases is a popular research topic; (2) The connection between AN and insulin resistance (IR) is a current research focus; (3) Treatment of AN, with an emphasis on addressing the underlying causes and improving local skin conditions, represents the cutting edge of this field.

Conclusion

This study summarizes the research trends and hotspots in the field of AN, offering valuable information and insights for scholars focused on AN scientific research, and providing a reference for future research directions.
Exploring the Convergence of Cyber–Physical Space: Multidimensional Modeling of Overtourism Interactions
Authors: Tai Kaiwing , Liao Minglei , Liu Xintao
Published: September 2024

As technological advancements continue to blur the boundaries between cyber and physical spaces, individuals' activities are not limited to physical space and increasingly transcend singular space. Prior research on interactions between cyber and physical spaces oversimplified or even overlooked the interactions between the two spaces due to limited access to human activity big data, for instance, the implications of cyber–physical interactions for tourism. Consequently, this study proposes an overtourism index framework intended to capture travel behaviors in both cyber and physical spaces to address the research gap. Based on extensive social media data from Hong Kong, the proposed framework is tested and validated efficiently to emulate tourism interactions between cyber and physical spaces at fine spatiotemporal resolutions. The results indicate that there is strong convergent interaction among the public in both cyber and physical spaces. Moreover, an online WebGIS interactive platform (https://arcg.is/0mzHyH) has been developed for visualizing these interactions and provides better decision‐making regarding tourism policy in Hong Kong.
The prevalence of hepatitis B virus, human T‐lymphotropic virus and human immunodeficiency virus in patients receiving blood transfusions in South Africa
Authors: Willemse Reynier J. , Grobler Christa J. , Murphy Edward L. , Roubinian Nareg , Colemen Charl , Machaba Solly , Vermeulen Marion
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives

South Africa has a high prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) and to a lesser extent human T‐lymphotropic virus (HTLV). Each of these agents is transfusion‐transmissible (TT) but deciding whether to implement preventive screening depends upon knowledge of background prevalence in transfused patients. We determined the prevalence of HIV, HBV and HTLV I/II among blood transfusion recipients in South African hospitals.

Materials and Methods

We obtained identity‐unlinked samples used for blood cross‐matching at 634 South African hospitals served by the South African National Blood Service (SANBS). The ABBOTT Alinity S® Immunochemiluminescent system measured HIV, HBV and HTLV I/II antibodies. Repeatedly reactive samples were confirmed using the Roche Cobas® 8000. Logistic regression was performed to investigate the determinants of associations for HIV, HBV and HTLV infections.

Results

The overall prevalences of HIV, HBV and HTLV were 37.8%, 7.4% and 0.6%, respectively. The HIV prevalence in blood recipients was twice as high as general population estimates. Public hospital patients had a significantly higher prevalence compared with private hospital patients for HIV and HBV. HIV prevalence was significantly higher in females, and HBV prevalence was significantly higher in males, excluding the unknown gender results.

Conclusion

Patients receiving blood transfusions in South Africa have high rates of HIV and HBV infection that should be taken into consideration when determining donor screening strategies for other viral infections. Measurable prevalence of HTLV indicates endemicity of this infection in South Africa.
Low-degree Hurwitz stacks in the Grothendieck ring
Authors: Landesman Aaron , Vakil Ravi , Wood Melanie Matchett
Published: September 2024

For $2 \leq d \leq 5$, we show that the class of the Hurwitz space of smooth degree $d$, genus $g$ covers of $\mathbb {P}^1$ stabilizes in the Grothendieck ring of stacks as $g \to \infty$, and we give a formula for the limit. We also verify this stabilization when one imposes ramification conditions on the covers, and obtain a particularly simple answer for this limit when one restricts to simply branched covers.
Nonlinear Dynamics of a Magnetic Shape Memory Alloy Oscillator
Authors: Souza Jean M. , Monteiro Luciana Loureiro S. , Savi Marcelo A.
Published: September 2024

Magnetic shape memory alloys (MSMAs) constitute a class of smart materials capable of exhibiting large magnetic field induced strain (MFIS) when subjected to magnetomechanical loadings. Two distinct mechanisms are responsible for the induced strain: martensitic variant reorientation and phase transformation. The martensitic reorientation is the most explored mechanism presenting the advantage to potential provide high-frequency actuation since it does not rely on phase transformation cycles. Despite its capabilities and potential dynamical applications, the dynamical behavior of MSMAs is not extensively explored in the literature that is usually focused on quasi-static behavior. Thereby, the objective of this work is to analyze the nonlinear dynamics of MSMAs. In this regard, an MSMA nonlinear oscillator is investigated, exploiting the system response under different bias magnetic field levels and actuation frequencies. A phenomenological model is employed to describe the MSMA magnetomechanical behavior. Numerical simulations are carried out using the operator split technique together with an iterative process and the fourth-order Runge–Kutta method. Results show that the application of a bias magnetic field can reduce the mean displacement of the system, increasing the oscillation amplitude. Furthermore, the period of oscillation can be modified, even achieving complex behaviors, including chaos. The potential use of MSMAs to dynamical systems is explored showing the possibility to provide adaptive behaviors.
Context-Driven Design of a Laparoscopic Instrument Cleaner for Use in Rural Low-Resource Hospitals
Authors: Robertson Daniel , Kok Abe , Oosting Roos , Gnanaraj Jesudian , Buzink Sonja , Dankelman Jenny
Published: September 2024

Laparoscopic surgery offers significant benefits to patients in low-resource settings compared to open surgery such as faster recovery, less pain, and lower infection rate. However, there exist significant barriers to the safe introduction of laparoscopy such as high costs and limited availability of trained staff. Low- and middle-income country (LMIC) hospitals suffer from higher post-surgical infection which might be due to the limited facilities for the sterile reprocessing of laparoscopic instruments. To design a solution to this issue, a detailed understanding of local settings was needed. Therefore, this research applied a context-driven design approach, based on the Roadmap for Design of Surgical Equipment for Safe Surgery Worldwide. Over several design phases, the need for a reprocessing device was established. An analysis of the sterile reprocessing of laparoscopic instruments led to a list of context-specific design requirements. These were translated to a final conceptual design of a laparoscopic instrument cleaner using a waterfall design method. Finally, a usability study of the loading system of the device was conducted with nurses in four Indian hospitals. A root-cause analysis of the usability study showed that the device was not intuitive enough to use for Indian nurses. A redesign of the loading system was made to improve its ease of use. The design process used in this study can be used as an example for designers wanting to address the critical issue of context-specific medical devices worldwide, or more specifically, the sterile supply of surgical instruments in resource-constrained environments.
Crack Growth Prediction Based on Uncertain Parameters Using Ensemble Kalman Filter
Authors: Hana Norihiko , Hatanaka Rinya , Amaya Kenji
Published: September 2024

We are developing a method that will enable the estimation of crack shapes in such structures as power equipment and social infrastructure with greater precision as well as the prediction of crack growth life under conditions of uncertainty regarding crack perimeter structure and applied loads. Ascertaining the dimensions of cracks is complicated by the influences exerted by external loads on crack propagation as well as the geometry of crack perimeters. The prediction of crack propagation based on uncertain information is an overly conservative approach due to the lack of accuracy. This paper presents a Bayesian estimation of actual crack geometry based on predictions from a physical model of crack growth and measured crack geometry. The uncertainty in the load and the geometry of the crack perimeter are reflected in the crack propagation model. The range over which the uncertain parameters are estimated is updated simultaneously with estimations of the crack shape. Furthermore, we describe how optimal measurement intervals can be identified from the one-period-ahead prediction of crack growth based on a physical model. The application of properly spaced measurements and sequential Bayesian estimation can effectively mitigate the impact of measurement error and parameter uncertainty, thereby enhancing the precision of crack growth prediction. Sequential Bayesian estimation is an Ensemble Kalman Filter, and our physical model of crack propagation is a Paris measure based on fracture mechanics. The efficacy of the methodology presented in this paper is validated by the outcomes of the simulated observed data of a CT specimen.
Impact of Encapsulated Phase Change Material Additives for Improved Thermal Performance of Silicone Gel Insulation
Authors: Kasitz Joshua , Ghufran Muhammad , Huitink David
Published: September 2024

Passive cooling through phase change materials (PCM) creates beneficial complimentary cooling techniques aimed at providing thermal gradient mitigation during device operation without additional power requirements. These have been well studied but are difficult to implement due to complications concerning effective enclosure of the liquid phase. Encapsulated PCM particles can be embedded in other materials to form composites with form stable solid–liquid phase transitions. This study characterizes a new composite of silicone gel and encapsulated phase change materials (ePCMs) for use as an encapsulant. The ePCMs contain a paraffin core and titania shell resulting in a self-contained solid–liquid phase transition producing an average of 132.9 J/g of latent heat capacity. The gel composites gain latent heat capacity as a linear function of ePCM concentration by weight. The 30% ePCM sample contains 41.0 J/g of latent heat capacity, approximately 30% of ePCM control samples. The specific heat capacity of the silicone gel without ePCMs is 1.539 J/g-° C and 2.825 J/g-° C for the ePCM particles. As the ePCM concentration increases, the specific heat capacity is increased toward the highest value of the pure ePCMs across all temperature ranges. The coefficient of thermal expansion of the composites is increased with ePCM concentration up to a maximum of 96% in the 20% ePCM concentration. The elastic modulus remains relatively constant across ePCM concentrations and temperatures. In the needle–needle breakdown voltage testing the 20% sample has a 6 kV/mm reduction in dielectric strength and higher than 20% ePCM samples show increased variability in strength due to the dispersed particles. Overall, the results from these material characterizations demonstrate the promise of dielectric composites containing ePCM particles to add passive cooling capability into electronics devices without complex structures.
Investigating the Unsteady Dynamics of a Multi-Jet Impingement Cooling Flow Using Large Eddy Simulation
Authors: Morsbach Christian , Matha Marcel , Brakmann Robin G. , Tabassum Sadiya , Bergmann Michael , Schroll Michael , Willert Christian , Kügeler Edmund
Published: September 2024

We investigate the unsteady behavior of an in-line jet impingement array of nine jets at a Reynolds number of 10,000 in a narrow channel subjected to a developing cross flow of up to 25% of the bulk jet velocity. To this end, we present an improved version of a previously published large eddy simulation (LES) now with resolved turbulence at the inflow boundaries. After a careful analysis of the transient behavior and statistical convergence of the LES, we discuss the time-averaged heat transfer characteristics of the configuration compared to numerical references of similar configurations. We then show how the large-scale unsteadiness increases from jet to jet. Both space-only and spectral proper orthogonal decompositions (POD and SPOD) are used to discuss the large-scale organization of single jets and multiple jets in combination. The latter shows a qualitative change in the unsteady behavior of the temperature footprint on the impingement wall with increasing cross flow.
Short Circuit Estimation in Lithium-Ion Batteries Using Moving Horizon Estimation
Authors: Moon Jihoon , Bhaskar Kiran , Rahn Christopher D.
Published: September 2024

This paper proposes rapid and accurate short circuit estimation under resting condition using joint moving horizon estimation (MHE). The use of lithium-ion batteries (LiBs) in electric vehicles (EVs) has been increasing, leading to heightened concerns regarding the safety of LiBs. Detecting a short circuit, which is a major cause of safety incidents, is challenging when it is in its early stages. Therefore, short circuits should be detected swiftly and accurately to prevent thermal runaway and potential fires, property damage, injuries, and mortalities. During leak testing of new cells or often an EV crash, applied current may be zero and parameters unknown. The presented work addresses these challenges through the application of a joint MHE approach, to estimate both short circuit current and battery capacity. The proposed approach is evaluated through extensive simulations involving various short circuit scenarios and is compared to a joint extended Kalman filter and joint unscented Kalman filter. Experimental data are also used to validate the effectiveness of states and parameters estimation.
Effective Map Merging for Long-Term Autonomous Navigation
Authors: Baird Christopher , Nokleby Scott
Published: September 2024

An algorithm is presented that intelligently merges multiple 3D point clouds used for localization based on when the point cloud was recorded to create an updated map that is more similar to the current environment. The algorithm was implemented on a Boston Dynamics Spot robot and was used to upgrade Spot’s autonomous navigation algorithm called Autowalk by adding the capability for long-term navigation in semi-static environments. The proposed algorithm was validated by having Spot navigate both indoor and outdoor environments over multiple months traveling over 43 km autonomously without losing localization. The proposed method extends the life of programmed autonomous missions to ensure a robot can be used over extended periods of time without the need to re-teach these autonomous missions due to changes in the environment.
A Statistical Prediction of Electrical Discharge Initiation and Semi-Analytical Transient Mixed Lubrication Model of a Rolling Element
Authors: Jackson Robert L. , Saha Sudip , Janik Jack R.
Published: September 2024

Rolling element bearings are an integral component of electric vehicles, supporting radial and axial loads in powertrain components such as electric motor shafts and wheel bearings. Fast-switching inverters enable precise, variable control of motor performance at the cost of possible stray current leakage into mechanical components. These currents naturally seek to cross the insulating fluid film in rolling element bearings. In doing so, a destructive discharge or arc may form and cause irreversible damage to metallic bearing surfaces. A unique contribution of the work is that it provides a method to use the statistical height distribution to predict the likelihood of electrical breakdown and discharging. To predict film thickness it uses a closed-form elasto-hydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) models to present a semi-analytical model of this discharging phenomenon. Existing EHL models are modified for mixed lubrication and electrical contacts by incorporating a solid rough surface asperity contact model and a flow factor modified lubrication model. The model accounts for transient effects and considers changes in speed and other parameters during operation. The resulting model predicts the likelihood of surface damage and electrical properties of the bearings through the statistical asperity height above a critical value calculation. The damaged regions predicted by the model are in qualitative agreement with the experimental tests.
Study on the Influence Mechanism of Spoiler on Flow and Combustion Process in Rotary Engine Cylinder
Authors: Li Liangyu , Guo Zihe , Zou Run , Su Tiexiong
Published: September 2024

The spoiler is vital for optimizing rotary engines, yet its impact on the flow and combustion process within the cylinder remains ambiguous, thereby impeding the optimization efforts for rotary engines. This article, by analyzing the motion of the rotary, discovers a form of high-speed local gas flow within the cylinder due to local pressure differences resulting from interactions among the combustion chamber, cylinder body, and spoiler structure. This phenomenon is named “pressure differential flow” to differentiate it from the forced flow induced by the spoiler. Using mathematical models and three-dimensional simulations, we analyze the intensity of pressure differential flow at various spoiler heights and its regulatory effects on the flow and combustion characteristics within the cylinder. The results indicate that the flow caused by the spoiler in the cylinder is primarily divided into forced flow and pressure differential flow, with the intensity of the latter increasing as the spoiler height increases. When the spoiler height is greater than 75% of the maximum height, the pressure difference flow becomes more apparent, with both forced flow and pressure difference flow coexisting in the cylinder; when the spoiler height is less than 75% of the maximum height, the pressure difference flow is less noticeable, and the forced flow caused by the spoiler dominates. Pressure differential flow can reduce ignition delay and increase the maximum cylinder pressure, but it can also delay ignition timing and reduce combustion stability.
Reproductive aging weakens offspring survival and constrains the telomerase response to herpesvirus in Pacific oysters
Authors: Dupoué Andréaz , Koechlin Hugo , Huber Matthias , Merrien Pauline , Le Grand Jacqueline , Corporeau Charlotte , Fleury Elodie , Bernay Benoît , de Villemereuil Pierre , Morga Benjamin , Le Luyer Jérémy
Published: September 2024

Telomere length (TL) is increasingly recognized as a molecular marker that reflects how reproductive aging affects intergenerational transmissions. Here, we investigated the effects of parental age on offspring survival and the regulation of TL by examining the telomere-elongating activity of telomerase in the Pacific oyster. We assessed the classical hallmarks of aging in parents at three age classes (young, middle-aged, and old) and crossbred them using a split-brood design to examine the consequences of the nine maternal-by-paternal age combinations on their offspring. Reproductive aging leads to increased larval mortality and accelerated telomere shortening in spats, rendering them more susceptible to infection by the Ostreid herpesvirus. Viral exposure stimulates telomerase activity, a response that we identified as adaptive, but weakened by parental aging. While telomerase lengthens a spat’s telomere, paradoxically, longer individual TL predicts higher mortality in adults. The telomerase-telomere complex appeared as a conservative biomarker for distinguishing survivors and losers upon exposure to polymicrobial diseases.
Comprehensive computational automated search of barrierless reactions leading to the formation of benzene and other C6-membered rings
Authors: Castiñeira Reis Marta , Martínez Núñez Emilio , Fernández Ramos Antonio
Published: September 2024

We present the systematic exploration of various potential energy surfaces for systems with C6H6–x(x= 0, 1, 2, or 3) empirical formula using an automatic search approach. The primary objective of this study is to identify reaction pathways that lead to the creation of benzene,o-benzyne, and other rings. These pathways initiate with a barrierless recombination reaction and involve subsequent isomerization reactions with submerged transition states until the final product is reached. The reported reaction profiles are consistent with the existing conditions in the interstellar medium if the hot complex formed can cool down through radiative relaxation. Recent studies on the deactivation of polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) support the possibility of these reactions taking place. The C6-membered rings are considered precursors of PAHs, and our focus is on identifying pathways originating from the barrierless recombination of reactive molecules known to exist in the interstellar medium, with potential implications in other environments.
Preclinical evaluation of a fully human, quadrivalent-hantavirus polyclonal antibody derived from a non-human source
Authors: Brocato Rebecca L. , Wu Hua , Kwilas Steven A. , Principe Lucia M. , Josleyn Matthew , Shamblin Joshua , Chivukula Padmanabh , Bausch Christoph , Luke Thomas , Sullivan Eddie J. , Hooper Jay W.
Published: September 2024

Hantaviruses are rodent-borne viruses that cause severe disease in infected humans. In the New World, major hantaviruses include Andes virus (ANDV) and Sin Nombre virus (SNV) causing hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. In the Old World, major hantaviruses include Hantaan virus (HTNV) and Puumala virus (PUUV) causing hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. Here, we produced a pan-hantavirus therapeutic (SAB-163) comprised of fully human immunoglobulin purified from the plasma of transchromosomic bovines (TcB) vaccinated with hantavirus DNA plasmids coding for the major glycoproteins of ANDV, SNV, HTNV, and PUUV. SAB-163 has potent neutralizing antibodies (PRNT50 > 200,000) against the four targeted hantavirus and cross-neutralization against several other heterotypic hantaviruses. At a dosage of 10 mg/kg, SAB-163 is bioavailable in Syrian hamsters out to 70 days post-treatment with a half-life of 10–15 days. At this same dosage, SAB-163 administered 1 day before, or 5 days after exposure, protected all hamsters from lethal disease caused by ANDV. At a higher dose, partial but significant protection was achieved as late as day 6. SAB-163 also protected hamsters in the HTNV, PUUV, and SNV infection models when administered 1 day before or up to 3 days after challenge. This pan-hantavirus therapeutic is attractive because it is fully human, multi-targeted, safe, stable at 4°C, and effective in animal models. SAB-163 was evaluated for safety in GLP human tissue binding studies and a GLP rabbit toxicity study at 365 and 730 mg/kg and is investigational new drug enabled for phase 1 clinical trial(s).

IMPORTANCE

This candidate polyclonal human IgG product was produced using synthetic gene-based vaccines and transgenic cows. Having now gone through cGMP production, GLP safety testing, and efficacy testing in animals, SAB-163 is the world’s most advanced anti-hantavirus antibody-based medical countermeasure, aside from convalescent human plasma. Importantly, SAB-163 targets the most prevalent hantaviruses on four continents.
Characterization of non-standard viral genomes during arenavirus infections identifies prominent S RNA intergenic region deletions
Authors: Hackbart Matthew , López Carolina B.
Published: September 2024

Arenaviruses, a family of negative-sense RNA viruses spread by rodents, are a leading cause of severe hemorrhagic fever in humans. Due to a paucity of antivirals and vaccines for arenaviruses, there is a need to identify new mechanisms for interfering with arenavirus replication. In several negative-sense RNA viruses, natural viral interference results from the production of non-standard viral genomes (nsVGs) that activate the innate immune system and/or compete for essential viral products. Although it is well established that arenaviruses produce strong interfering activities, it is unknown if they produce interfering nsVGs. Here, we show that arenaviruses produce deletions within the intergenic region of their small (S) RNA genome, and these deletions inhibit viral glycoprotein production during minigenome replication. S RNA deletions are more abundant when arenaviruses are grown in high-interfering conditions and are associated with reduced viral replication. Overall, we found that arenaviruses produce internal deletions within the S RNA intergenic region that are capable of decreasing glycoprotein production. These natural arenavirus interfering molecules provide a new target for the generation of therapeutics against arenaviruses.

IMPORTANCE

Arenaviruses are hemorrhagic fever-causing pathogens that infect millions of people a year. There are currently no approved antivirals that target arenaviruses, and understanding natural mechanisms that inhibit arenavirus replication is crucial for the development of effective therapeutics. Here, we identified multiple deletions within arenavirus genomes that remove major replicative elements of the viral genomes. We show that deletions that remove the intergenic region of the viral genome can prevent viral protein production. These deletions were found in all arenaviruses tested in this study representing a mechanism that could be harnessed for the development of antivirals that broadly target the arenavirus family.
Whole genome sequencing of
Leuconostoc suionicum
and
L. pseudomesenteroides
isolates extracted from sugar beet roots
Authors: Kandel Shyam L. , Strausbaugh Carl A. , Bill Malick , Adhikari Bishwo N. , Hu Xiaojun
Published: September 2024

Leuconostoc suionicum
and
Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides
are important lactic acid bacteria identified in rotted tissues of roots in the field and stored sugar beets. Here, we announce the genomes of
L. suionicum
and
L. pseudomesenteroides
, isolated from post-harvest sugar beet roots from Idaho and Minnesota.
Pinewood nematode induced changes in the assembly process of gallery microbiomes benefit its vector beetle’s development
Authors: Zhang Bin , Ma Yafei , Duan Wenzhao , Fan Qi , Sun Jianghua
Published: September 2024

Microbiomes play crucial roles in insect adaptation, especially under stress such as pathogen invasion. Yet, how beneficial microbiomes assemble remains unclear. The wood-boring beetle
Monochamus alternatus
, a major pest and vector of the pine wilt disease (PWD) nematode, offers a unique model. We conducted controlled experiments using amplicon sequencing (16S rRNA and ITS) within galleries where beetles and microbes interact. PWD significantly altered bacterial and fungal communities, suggesting distinct assembly processes. Deterministic factors like priority effects, host selection, and microbial interactions shaped microbiome composition, distinguishing healthy from PWN-infected galleries. Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Ophiostomataceae emerged as potentially beneficial, aiding beetle’s development and pathogen resistance. This study unveils how nematode-induced changes in gallery microbiomes influence beetle’s development, shedding light on microbiome assembly amid insect-pathogen interactions. Insights gleaned enhance understanding of PWD spread and suggest novel management strategies via microbiome manipulation.

IMPORTANCE

This study explores the assembly process of gallery microbiomes associated with a wood-boring beetles,
Monochamus alternatus
, a vector of the pine wilt disease (PWD). By conducting controlled comparison experiments and employing amplicon approaches, the study reveals significant changes in taxonomic composition and functional adaptation of bacterial and fungal communities induced by PWD. It identifies deterministic processes, including priority effects, host selection, and microbial interactions, as major drivers in microbiome assembly. Additionally, the study highlights the presence of potentially beneficial microbes such as Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Ophiostomataceae, which could enhance beetle development and resistance to pathogens. These findings shed light on the intricate interplay among insects, microbiomes, and pathogens, contributing to a deeper understanding of PWD prevalence and suggesting innovative management strategies through microbiome manipulation.
Clinical validation of the Roche cobas HPV test on the Roche cobas 5800 system for the purpose of cervical screening
Authors: Mehta Nikita , Keung Marco Ho Ting , Pineda Eunice , Lynn Elliott , Fetene Dagnachew , Lee Alvin , Hougardy Nicolas , Heinrichs Amelie , Chan Hiu Tat Mark , Arbyn Marc , Saville Marion , Hawkes David
Published: September 2024

This study assessed the relative clinical sensitivity and specificity, as well as reproducibility, for high-risk HPV types of the Roche cobas HPV test when processed using the Roche cobas 5800 system. The results from this study demonstrate that the cobas HPV test using the cobas 5800 system fulfils the Meijer criteria for use in population-based cervical screening. This clinical validation study also examines the clinical sensitivity and specificity based on partial genotyping, with separate detection of HPV16 and HPV18, compared with the Roche cobas 4800 HPV test, a second-generation standard comparator assay. The cobas HPV test has a relative clinical sensitivity of 1.000, when compared with the cobas 4800 HPV test to detect histologically confirmed CIN2+ lesions in woman aged 30 years or older, with a relative clinical specificity of 0.995. The general intra- and inter-laboratory agreement for the cobas HPV test on the cobas 5800 system for finding a HPV positive result were 99.1% and 99.6%, respectively.

IMPORTANCE

This study demonstrates, for the first time, the clinical performance of the Roche cobas HPV test when processed using the new cobas 5800 system [cobas (5800)]. This study shows that the cobas (5800) demonstrates relative clinical sensitivity and specificity, when compared with a standard comparator HPV test, which meets the international HPV test validation requirements. Intra- and inter-laboratory reproducibility also fulfills these criteria. The current study demonstrates that the cobas (5800) can be used for primary HPV-based cervical screening on cervical specimens.
Paediatric abdominal compartment syndrome in a 4.6 kg infant
Authors: Bowen Audrey Therese , Meckmongkol Teerin
Published: September 2024

An infant with a history of intestinal atresia type IV repaired at birth presented to the emergency department with recurrent abdominal distension. She was admitted 1 month before for abdominal distension secondary to formula intolerance. Hypothermia and mild respiratory distress prompted an evaluation with imaging, laboratory investigations, and blood and urine cultures. She was admitted to the intensive care unit and management included immediate surgical consultation, nothing by mouth, nasogastric tube placement for decompression and initiation of intravenous fluids and antibiotics. Her clinical status deteriorated within hours, requiring intubation and initiation of pressors. She responded to resuscitation but developed signs of abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS), prompting surgical decompression. The patient had a prolonged hospital stay and was discharged with total parenteral nutrition and G-tube feeds. This case highlights the importance of prompt recognition of risk factors, symptoms and management of paediatric ACS facilitating a reduction in morbidity and mortality.