bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Television watching during meals is associated with higher ultra‐processed food consumption and higher free sugar intake in childhood
Authors: Martín‐Calvo Nerea , Usechi Ane , Fabios Elise , Gómez Santiago Felipe , López‐Gil José Francisco
Published: May 2024

Background

The consumption of ultra‐processed foods (UPFs) is associated with an increased risk of noncommunicable diseases and mortality in adults. The aim of this study was to analyse the association between mealtime television (TV) watching and UPF consumption in childhood.

Materials and Methods

Participants in the SENDO project recruited in 2015–2023 were classified into three categories based on the frequency at which they watched TV during meals. Dietary information was collected with a validated 147‐item semi‐quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Generalized mixed models were used to compare mean UPF consumption between groups after accounting for the main confounders. The predictive margins of participants who had a free sugar intake >10% of their energy intake in each category were also calculated.

Results

Totally 970 subjects (482 girls) with a mean age of 5.00 years (SD = 0.85) were studied. Children who watched TV during meals ≥4 times/week consumed a mean of 4.67% more energy from UPF than those who watch TV <3 times/month. The adjusted proportions of children who had a free sugar intake >10% of their energy intake in the categories of <3 times/month, 1–3 times/week and ≥4 times/week exposure to TV during meals were 44.9%, 45.9% and 58.7%, respectively.

Conclusion

TV watching during meals is associated with higher consumption of UPFs and a higher risk of exceeding 10% of TEI in free sugar intake in childhood.
Real‐world treatment patterns and quality of life among patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma living in Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Taiwan, and Turkey
Authors: Cheng Li‐Jen , Kim Janet , Mukherjee Apurba , Milloy Neil , Unsworth Mia , Ng Daniel
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To evaluate demographic and clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, and quality of life in patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma in Asia.

Methods

Data were drawn from the Adelphi Real World Metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma Disease Specific Programme™, a cross‐sectional survey of medical oncologists/urologists and their adult patients in Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Taiwan, and Turkey. Exploratory patient‐reported outcomes included the EQ‐5D visual analog scale, European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life of Patient Questionnaire global health, and Brief Pain Inventory. Analyses were descriptive.

Results

Overall, 175 physicians reported data for 988 patients. Mean (standard deviation) patient age was 66.3 (10.8) years, 77% were men, and 82% had bladder tumors at diagnosis. Of patients receiving first‐ (n = 988), second‐ (n = 290), and third‐line (n = 87) treatments, 81%, 35%, and 59% received chemotherapy, respectively, and 17%, 63%, and 34% received programmed cell death protein 1/ligand 1 inhibitors, respectively. Patient‐reported (n = 319) mean (standard deviation) EQ‐5D visual analog scale score was 51.8 (15.6), European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life of Patient Questionnaire global health status score was 44.6 (19.9), and Brief Pain Inventory score was 6.5 (1.9; n = 315).

Conclusion

The most common first‐ and second‐line treatments for locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma were chemotherapy and programmed cell death protein 1/ligand inhibitors, respectively. At third line, 10% of patients received best supportive care alone, underscoring an unmet need for effective third‐line treatment options. Patients in all regions reported quality‐of‐life impairment.
Differential regulation of G protein‐coupled receptor‐associated proteins in the caudate and the putamen of cynomolgus macaques following chronic ethanol drinking
Authors: Neel Anna I. , Wang Yutong , Sun Haiguo , Liontis Katherine E. , McCormack Mary C. , Mayer Jonathan C. , Cervera Juanes Rita P. , Davenport April T. , Grant Kathleen A. , Daunais James D. , Chen Rong
Published: May 2024

The dorsal striatum is composed of the caudate nucleus and the putamen in human and non‐human primates. These two regions receive different cortical projections and are functionally distinct. The caudate is involved in the control of goal‐directed behaviors, while the putamen is implicated in habit learning and formation. Previous reports indicate that ethanol differentially influences neurotransmission in these two regions. Because neurotransmitters primarily signal through G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) to modulate neuronal activity, the present study aimed to determine whether ethanol had a region‐dependent impact on the expression of proteins that are involved in the trafficking and function of GPCRs, including G protein subunits and their effectors, protein kinases, and elements of the cytoskeleton. Western blotting was performed to examine protein levels in the caudate and the putamen of male cynomolgus macaques that self‐administered ethanol for 1 year under free access conditions, along with control animals that self‐administered an isocaloric sweetened solution under identical operant conditions. Among the 18 proteins studied, we found that the levels of one protein (PKCβ) were increased, and 13 proteins (Gαi1/3, Gαi2, Gαo, Gβ1γ, PKCα, PKCε, CaMKII, GSK3β, β‐actin, cofilin, α‐tubulin, and tubulin polymerization promoting protein) were reduced in the caudate of alcohol‐drinking macaques. However, ethanol did not alter the expression of any proteins examined in the putamen. These observations underscore the unique vulnerability of the caudate nucleus to changes in protein expression induced by chronic ethanol exposure. Whether these alterations are associated with ethanol‐induced dysregulation of GPCR function and neurotransmission warrants future investigation.

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Full household equilibrium
Authors: Opocher Arrigo , Steedman Ian
Published: May 2024

Developing ideas suggested by James Meade, Harry Johnson and Neil Laing, we argue that when one compares alternative long‐period positions, as in the work‐horse two commodity, two primary input model, the household's expenditure and the prices of the commodities purchased cannot be treated as independent variables. We call such a full adaptation of households to consistent price configurations ‘full household equilibrium’. It is found that, at both the household and the aggregate levels, the purchased quantity of a ‘normal’ commodity can increase when its relative price rises. This basic result is readily applied both to aspects of welfare theory and to international trade theory.
When splicing meets transgene DNA methylation to uncover elite alleles for plant yield
Authors: Bazin J. , Crespi M.
Published: May 2024

This article is a Commentary on Zhao et al. (2024), 243: 1724–1741.
Identification of efficient inbred testers to strengthen established heterotic groups in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum [L.] R. Br)
Authors: Papanna Rakshith , Gupta Shashi Kumar
Published: May 2024

Pearl millet has two major heterotic groups, HGB (Heterotic Group B) and HGR (Heterotic Group R), each with unique genetic backgrounds and traits. Leveraging appropriate genetic resources is crucial for enhancing the potential of these heterotic groups in hybrid breeding programmes. Testers are essential in this context, determining the combining ability of new breeding lines and accurately assessing the performance and potential of parental lines in hybrid combinations. Two sets of test crosses were produced using line × tester mating design: Set 1 with six HGB testers crossed with new restorer lines and Set 2 with six HGR testers crossed with new seed parental lines, evaluated at multiple locations in India. Testers were evaluated for their effectiveness using multiple criteria, such as rank correlation analysis for line performance in hybrid combinations, discrimination ability, general combining ability, per se performance and Biplot analysis. These assessments determined their relative ranking, with HGB1‐T3, HGB2‐T3, HGR1‐T1 and HGR2‐T1 identified as efficient testers. The genetic analysis helps identify efficient testers for selecting superior genotypes, thereby enhancing heterotic group performance by incorporating appropriate new breeding material.
The interplay of growth‐regulating factor 5 and BZR1 in coregulating chlorophyll degradation in poplar
Authors: Chen Hao , Wu Wenqi , Du Kang , Ling Aoyu , Kang Xiangyang
Published: May 2024

Chlorophyll (Chl) is essential for plants to carry out photosynthesis, growth and development processes. Growth‐regulating factors (GRFs) play a vital role in regulating Chl degradation in plants. However, the molecular mechanism by which GRF5 regulates Chl degradation in poplar remains unknown. Here we found that overexpression of PpnGRF5‐1 increased Chl content in leaves and promoted chloroplast development in poplar. Overexpression of PpnGRF5‐1 in poplar delayed Chl degradation induced by external factors, such as hormones, darkness and salt stress. PpnGRF5‐1 responded to brassinosteroid (BR) signalling during BR‐induced Chl degradation and reduced the expression levels of Chl degradation and senescence‐related genes. PpnGRF5‐1 inhibited the expression of Chl b reductases PagNYC1 and PagNOL. PpnGRF5‐1 could interact with PagBZR1 in the nucleus. PagBZR1 also inhibited the expression of PagNYC1. In addition, we found that the protein–protein interaction between PagBZR1 and PpnGRF5‐1 enhanced the inhibitory effect of PpnGRF5‐1 on the Chl b reductases PagNYC1 and PagNOL. BZR1 and GRF5‐1 were upregulated, and NOL and NYC1 were downregulated in triploid poplars compared to diploids. This study revealed a new mechanism by which PpnGRF5‐1 regulates Chl degradation in poplars and lays the foundation for comprehensively analysing the molecular mechanism of Chl metabolism in triploid poplars.
Leucine‐rich repeat‐containing G protein‐coupled receptor 5 expression in lymph node metastases of colorectal cancer: Clinicopathological insights and prognostic implications
Authors: Sawaguchi Hiroshi , Uehara Takeshi , Iwaya Mai , Asaka Shiho , Nakajima Tomoyuki , Kamakura Masato , Nagaya Tadanobu , Yoshizawa Takahiro , Ota Hiroyoshi , Umemura Takeji
Published: May 2024

Leucine‐rich repeat‐containing G protein‐coupled receptor 5 (LGR5), a significant cancer stem cell marker in colorectal cancer (CRC), lacks lymph node (LN) expression studies. In this study, we identified LGR5 expression by RNAscope, a highly sensitive RNA in situ method, and analyzed its association with clinicopathological characteristics. Tissue microarrays were generated from primary tumors (PTs) and LN metastases in paraffin‐embedded blocks of 38 CRC surgical resection materials. LGR5 expression by RNAscope was evaluated by dividing the expression levels into negative and positive expression. In all but two cases of LN metastasis, LGR5‐positive dots were detected in tumor cells, and there was a wide range of LGR5‐positive cells. More LGR5‐positive dots were identified in the gland‐forming region. Twenty‐three cases were classified into a high LGR5‐expression group, and 15 cases were classified into a low LGR5‐expression group. In the high LGR5‐expression group, the histological grade was lower than in the low LGR5‐expression group (p = 0.0159), while necrosis was significantly more prevalent (p = 0.0326), and the tumor, node, metastasis stage was significantly lower (p = 0.0302). There was no association between LGR5 expression levels in LN metastases and LGR5 expression levels in PT tissue. LGR5 expression in LN metastases may influence prognosis. Further analysis may lead to new therapeutic strategies.
Identification and pathogenicity of Clonostachys spp. and its co‐inoculation with Fusarium species on soybean root
Authors: Zhao Junlei , Xu Xi , Xu Xiaoling , Guo Lifeng , Wang Xiangjing , Xiang Wensheng , Zhao Junwei
Published: May 2024

Soybean is an important protein and oil crop around the world, widely cultivated in Heilongjiang province, China. In the summer of 2021, soybean root rot samples were collected from farms in multiple regions of Heilongjiang province to isolate pathogens. Twenty‐seven fungal isolates with similar morphology were found, causing soybean root discolouration and blackness leading to root rot, but which had relatively mild pathogenicity, with an average disease index of 13.69–32.25. Morphological features and multilocus phylogenetic analyses divided these isolates into four species: Clonostachys rosea (48.2%), C. rosea f. sp. rosea (14.8%), C. chloroleuca (29.6%) and Clonostachys sp. (7.4%). Co‐inoculation of these four species with two important pathogenic Fusarium species that can cause soybean root rot, F. annulatum and Fusarium sp. 1 in the Fusarium oxysporum species complex (FOSC), showed that C.  rosea and Clonostachys sp. significantly reduced the pathogenicity of F. annulatum to soybean root, while C. rosea f. sp. rosea and C. chloroleuca slightly increased the pathogenicity of F. annulatum. C. rosea, Clonostachys sp., C. chloroleuca and C. rosea f. sp. rosea slightly reduced the pathogenicity of Fusarium sp. 1 in the FOSC. Our research is the first to report Clonostachys sp., C. chloroleuca and C. rosea f. sp. rosea causing soybean root rot in Heilongjiang province, China, and that these four Clonostachys species can affect the pathogenicity of Fusarium species, alleviating or aggravating soybean root rot. The findings of this study provide new insights into exploring the interactions between pathogens and thus effectively controlling them.
Different impacts of artificial thicketization of Caragana korshinskii and Hippophae rhamnoides on soil organic carbon in alpine grasslands of the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Song Ci , Zeng Xuanyu , Duan Peng , Li Yongxiao , Shan Renqianjie , Yang Ping , Shi Guoxi , Zhou Huakun , Wang Fangping , Yao Buqing
Published: May 2024

Grassland shrub encroachment is known to change soil organic carbon (SOC) storage, but the effect of artificial thicketization on SOC in alpine grasslands of the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of two common shrubs, leguminous Caragana korshinskii and non‐leguminous Hippophae rhamnoides, on SOC at a reforestation site on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau. While C. korshinskii had no significant effect on SOC content, H. rhamnoides significantly increased SOC content. In both shrub communities, there was a significant positive correlation between SOC content and the coverage, plant aboveground biomass, dominant plant species biomass, total and available nitrogen, total phosphorus, and proportion of water‐stable aggregate of greater than 250 μm. Structural equation modeling showed that the common path by which the two shrub communities affected SOC was that the dominant species affected soil structure and the available nitrogen content by influencing community biomass, which had indirect effects on SOC. Additionally, C. korshinskii participated in the regulation of SOC. This result provides an important empirical reference and key insights into the carbon cycling mechanisms of reforested grasslands on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau.
Medical care services interplay between individual and Medicaid managed care markets in expansion versus non‐expansion states
Authors: Shi Bo , Baranoff Etti G. , Sager Thomas W.
Published: May 2024

We study enrollment, medical service utilization, and incurred expenses of individual comprehensive and Medicaid managed care plans in states with or without Medicaid expansion adopted at the Affordable Care Act (ACA) early stage 2014–2016. To make healthcare services more accessible, 27 states expanded Medicaid eligibility to cover nearly‐poor non‐elderly adults who have had incomes between 100% and 138% of federal poverty level in 2014. In non‐expansion states, early enrollees in this income cohort had to choose individual market plans rather than Medicaid. Early enrollees' enrollment choices and their health status have had a great impact on the individual market premiums and Medicaid spending. We examined health insurers' annual regulatory filings with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners for 2013–2016 and found that: First, individual comprehensive insurance enrollment grew much faster in states not expanding Medicaid eligibility. Second, after incorporating early enrollees, per member per month (PMPM) medical service utilization and expenses of individual comprehensive insurance grew much faster in non‐expansion states. Third, among major types of medical utilization and expense measures, PMPM hospital inpatient days and PMPM prescription drug expenses increased substantially since 2014. Finally, Medicaid beneficiaries generated more PMPM medical utilization and expenses in expansion states.
CHASING THE TAIL: A GENERALIZED PARETO DISTRIBUTION APPROACH TO ESTIMATING WEALTH INEQUALITY
Authors: Kennickell Arthur
Published: May 2024

Since the work reported in Vermeulen (Review of Income and Wealth, 64(2), 357–387; 2018), a literature has developed using the simple Pareto distribution along with “rich list” information to improve estimates of the upper tail of the wealth distribution measured in surveys. Because the construction of such external data is typically opaque and subject to error, it may be best not to depend exclusively on this approach. This paper develops an alternative approach, using the generalized Pareto distribution (GPD), extending an estimation strategy developed by Castillo and Hadi (Journal of the American Statistical Association, 92(440), 1609–1620; 1997) in a novel way to survey data. The extension allows for addressing imperfections in the effective coverage of the upper tail of the wealth distribution, as well as allowing the imposition of an external measure of aggregate wealth as a constraint. The paper implements the method on Austrian survey data that has weak coverage of wealthy households. The results indicate that even with a range of plausible adjustments for data imperfections, relying only on the survey data to project the upper tail is insufficient to yield implied wealth aggregates in the range implied by aggregate figures. Imposing the implied aggregate as a constraint is necessary. The approach may be particularly useful in comparing survey‐based inequality measures across and within countries and over time, as well as in constructing distributional financial accounts.
High‐dimensional sparse classification using exponential weighting with empirical hinge loss
Authors: Mai The Tien
Published: May 2024

In this study, we address the problem of high‐dimensional binary classification. Our proposed solution involves employing an aggregation technique founded on exponential weights and empirical hinge loss. Through the employment of a suitable sparsity‐inducing prior distribution, we demonstrate that our method yields favorable theoretical results on prediction error. The efficiency of our procedure is achieved through the utilization of Langevin Monte Carlo, a gradient‐based sampling approach. To illustrate the effectiveness of our approach, we conduct comparisons with the logistic Lasso on simulated data and a real dataset. Our method frequently demonstrates superior performance compared to the logistic Lasso.
The impact of simulation‐based training on medical students' whole blood transfusion abilities
Authors: Cole Rebekah , Shen Cynthia , Shumaker Jonathan , Matthews Kevin J. , Brown Zachery L. , Cuestas Joshua , Rudinsky Sherri L.
Published: May 2024

Background

Whole blood transfusion has been found to increase the likelihood of patient survival within both military and civilian medicine contexts. However, no whole blood transfusion training curriculum currently exists within undergraduate or graduate medical education in the United States. The purpose of our study was to: (1) determine the impact of simulation‐based training on medical students' abilities to conduct whole blood transfusions; and (2) determine the impact of simulation‐based training on medical students' confidence in conducting whole blood transfusions.

Study Design and Methods

We assessed 157 third‐year military medical students' ability to conduct whole blood transfusion before and after Operation Gunpowder, a 2‐day high‐fidelity prolonged casualty care simulation. We conducted a paired samples t‐test to compare the students' pre‐ and post‐simulation performance scores as well as self‐reported confidence and stress ratings.

Results

There was a significant difference in students' scores at the beginning of the course (M = 20.469, SD 6.40675) compared to their scores at the end of the course (M = 30.361, SD = 2.10053); t(155) = −18.833, p < .001. The effect size for this analysis (d = 6.56) was large. There was a significant difference (p < .001) between the pre‐ and post‐ratings for all self‐reported confidence and stress survey items.

Discussion

Our results suggest that simulation‐based training is an effective means of training medical students to conduct whole blood transfusiontraining in a limited resource simulated environment where blood inventories may be limited.
Imaging diagnosis: Disseminated hemangiosarcoma in a Welsh pony
Authors: Farber Brianna , Urion Rebecca , Hostnik Eric T.
Published: May 2024

A 16‐year‐old pony gelding presented with epistaxis and a head tilt. Referral skull radiographs suggested an ethmoid hematoma. Concurrent neurologic abnormalities prompted contrast‐enhanced CT of the head and cranial neck, revealing numerous hyperattenuating masses throughout the brain and paranasal sinuses, along with a large osteolytic mass in the second cervical vertebra. The vertebral mass extended into the vertebral canal, causing focal extradural compressive myelopathy. These findings were inconsistent with ethmoid hematoma and metastatic hemangiosarcoma or malignant melanoma were prioritized as potential causes for the clinical signs. Postmortem examination confirmed the sinonasal, intracranial, and vertebral masses as hemangiosarcoma, and additionally revealed innumerable thoracoabdominal metastatic lesions and hemorrhagic foci. A final diagnosis of disseminated hemangiosarcoma was made. In this study, CT proved invaluable for evaluating the severity and characterizing regional disease and neural involvement, directly affecting case management decisions.
Equine laryngoplasty: Effects of three anchoring techniques in the muscular process and three positions for suture implantation in the cricoid cartilage
Authors: Maire Ulrika , Ducharme Norm G. , Rossignol Anthony , Campos Schweitzer Ariane , Rossignol Fabrice
Published: May 2024

Objective

To compare the effects of three anchoring techniques in the muscular process and three positions of laryngoplasty suture implantation in the cricoid cartilage on abduction of the arytenoid cartilage and interaction with the cricoarytenoid dorsalis (CAD) muscle compartments.

Study design

Experimental study.

Sample population

Twenty‐two cadaveric equine larynges.

Methods

Three implantation techniques were assessed in the left muscular process. They were the use of a titanium corkscrew (CS), a standard caudal passage using a Jamshidi needle (JCa), and a standard cranial passage using a Jamshidi needle (JCr). Each was assessed in combination with three caudal locations in the cricoid cartilage (right, left, and left lateral). Each suture combination was tightened to submaximal abduction (Dixon grade 2). Force on the suture, degree of larynx caudal rotation, and CAD muscle indentation were evaluated.

Results

The force required for optimal arytenoid cartilage abduction was lower (p < .01) for constructs involving a CS (7.45 ± 4 N). The CS also resulted in lower (p < .01) CAD muscle indentation (2.01 ± 1.25 mm) and less larynx rotation (9 ± 3.87°; adjusted p < .05).

Conclusion

When inserted into the muscular process at the CAD tendon insertion point, the biomechanical properties of the CS reduced the force required for optimal arytenoid cartilage abduction. The CS also minimized interference with the CAD muscle compartments and reduced caudal displacement of the left arytenoid cartilage when it was under suture tension.

Clinical significance

The CS implantation avoided larynx deformation and muscle interaction, offering the possibility to combine a nerve graft and laryngoplasty as a treatment for recurrent laryngeal neuropathy.
Weighted Alexandrov–Fenchel type inequalities for hypersurfaces in Rn$\mathbb {R}^n$
Authors: Wu Jie
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we prove the following geometric inequalities in the Euclidean space , which are weighted Alexandrov–Fenchel type inequalities,
provided that is a star‐shaped and ‐convex hypersurface. Equality holds if and only if is a coordinate sphere in . As an application, by letting in the above inequality, we obtain a lower bound for the outer radius in terms of the curvature integrals for star‐shaped and ‐convex hypersurfaces.
Finite-Rate Chemistry Favre-Averaged Navier–Stokes Based Simulation of a Non-Premixed SynGas/AirFlame
Authors: Bissaï Nkaa Sante Junior , Chelem Mayigué Charles , Bomba Valentin , Mboumeu Véronique , Ekobena Fouda Henri
Published: May 2024

This paper is devoted to the study of the influence of chemical mechanisms, turbulence models, and gas radiative properties models on the characteristics of a turbulent diffusion CO/H2/N2−air flame, i.e., the so-called syngas flame in a Favre-averaged Navier–Stokes (FANS) environment. For this purpose, a transient FANS solver for combustion is used. The simulations are carried out using three distinct turbulence models, i.e., the standard k−ε, the renormalization group (RNG) k−ε, and the shear stress transport models. The turbulence–chemistry interaction is modeled using the partially stirred reaction model. The chemical mechanisms used in the present study are: (i) a compact skeletal C2 mechanism, (ii) a mechanism developed by Frassoldati–Faravelli–Ranzi containing 14 species and 33 reactions, and (iii) the optimized syngas mechanism by Varga. Radiation heat transfer is handled by the P-1 method. In addition, the performances of two gas radiative properties models, i.e., the gray mean gas and the weighted-sum-of-gray-gases (WSGG) models, are assessed in radiative heat transfer modeling of the syngas flame. The predicted results reveal that the combination of the RNG turbulence model and the C2 skeletal mechanism shows the best agreement with measurements. The WSGG model used predicts results with the same level accuracy as the gray gas model in modeling of the syngas flame.
Experimental Investigation on the Combustion Characteristics of Electrolyte Jets Containing Flame Retardant Tris (2-Chloroethyl) Phosphate
Authors: Jie Zhou , Hui-Sheng Peng , Dong Zheng
Published: May 2024

It is critical to well understand the combustion characteristics of the electrolytes inside lithium-ion batteries for safety concerns, particularly the electrolyte jet flames after thermal runaway. An electrolyte jet fire setup is developed in this study to investigate the combustion characteristics of electrolyte jets with the flame-retardant additive tris (2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) under high-temperature circumstances. Jet and ignition delay times and flammability are defined to characterize the flame-retardant effects. The fundamental parameters of self-extinguishing time and propagation rate are also measured for a comprehensive comparison. The experimental results show that the propagation of electrolyte flame at ambient temperature can be entirely stopped with 40 wt% of TCEP additives and 50 wt% can make the electrolyte nonflammable. Owing to the high boiling temperature and vaporization enthalpy of TCEP, more heat is required for the decomposition of electrolytes and TCEP mixtures, resulting in lower decomposition reaction rates and heat release rates. Thus, both the jet delay times and the ignition delay times significantly increase with the TCEP additives. Moreover, analyses on the spectrum of electrolyte jet flame reveal that the suppressing effects of TCEP on the combustion of electrolyte jets are operated by scavenging the OH radical and heat release.
Motion and Mooring Load Responses of a Novel 12-MW Semi-Submersible Floating Wind Turbine: An Experimental Study
Authors: Guo Jianing , Liu Mingyue , Fang Zhichao , Xiao Longfei , Chen Weimin , Pan Xujie
Published: May 2024

Due to the complexity of the integrated Floating Wind Turbine (FWT) system, obtaining reliable results necessitates extensive experiments. This paper conducts a comprehensive study on the motion performance and mooring load responses of a novel 12-MW semi-submersible FWT through model tests carried out in a wave basin. A multi-blade large-scale wind-generation system, equipped with a rectifier network, was enhanced and constructed to provide a dependable wind field. And a flexible tower was designed and fabricated, achieving an accurate simulation of the tower's stiffness characteristic and its impact on the overall dynamic response. The marine environmental conditions encompass various combinations of wind, waves, and currents. Rigorous calibration and identification tests were undertaken to validate the environmental conditions and the model system. The findings reveal that, under mild wave parameters, the mooring load is primarily influenced by the resonance response with platform motions, particularly surge resonance. The load effect of wind and current induces mean surge and pitch motions, while their damping effect reduces the standard deviation of responses, notably suppressing the pitch response peak at its natural motion frequency. Wave loads predominantly dictate the vibration range of motion responses. When the current velocity reaches a sufficient magnitude, the coupling effect between current and wave in the wave–frequency region significantly amplifies the mooring response. Notably, motions and mooring loads in the 60-deg and 90-deg directions surpass those in the 0-deg direction, with the maximum responses occurring at 60 deg.
Effect of TiO2–SiC and Heat Treatment on Tribological Characteristics of Bimodal Hybrid Aluminum Composites Under Dry Sliding Condition
Authors: Kumar Subodh , Dixit Gajendra , Dixit Savita
Published: May 2024

The dry sliding wear behavior of bimodal TiO2np/SiCp/Al6082 composites was studied using a pin-on-disk tribometer. The investigation included both as-cast alloy and T6 heat-treated composites, with variations in applied load (40 N, 60 N, and 80 N) and sliding distance (600, 900, 1200, 1500, 1800, and 2100 m) at a constant sliding speed of 2 m/s. The microstructure of the composites and the worn surface were examined using a scanning electron microscope. A linear increase in wear-rate was observed with sliding distance up to the transition limit. It was found that at 40 N, a shield began to develop between the disc and pin surface, reducing the coefficient of friction (COF), and friction and oxide were the primary processes of wear mechanisms. A larger load caused the protective layer to be destroyed; increasing COF, and adhesion and delamination were the two types of wear that were noticed. The wear resistance of alloys and bimodal composites was increased by heat treatment because it strengthened the matrix.
Zero-shot reconstruction of ocean sound speed field tensors: A deep plug-and-play approach
Authors: Li Siyuan , Cheng Lei , Fu Xiao , Li Jianlong
Published: May 2024

Reconstructing a three-dimensional ocean sound speed field (SSF) from limited and noisy measurements presents an ill-posed and challenging inverse problem. Existing methods used a number of pre-specified priors (e.g., low-rank tensor and tensor neural network structures) to address this issue. However, the SSFs are often too complex to be accurately described by these pre-defined priors. While utilizing neural network-based priors trained on historical SSF data may be a viable workaround, acquiring SSF data remains a nontrivial task. This work starts with a key observation: Although natural images and SSFs admit fairly different characteristics, their denoising processes appear to share similar traits—as both remove random components from more structured signals. This observation allows us to incorporate deep denoisers trained using extensive natural images to realize zero-shot SSF reconstruction, without any extra training or network modifications. To implement this idea, an alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) algorithm using such a deep denoiser is proposed, which is reminiscent of the plug-and-play scheme from medical imaging. Our plug-and-play framework is tailored for SSF recovery such that the learned denoiser can be simultaneously used with other handcrafted SSF priors. Extensive numerical studies show that the new framework largely outperforms state-of-the-art baselines, especially under widely recognized challenging scenarios, e.g., when the SSF samples are taken as tensor fibers. The code is available at https://github.com/OceanSTARLab/DeepPnP.
Skimmed, Lactose-Free Milk Ingestion Postexercise: Rehydration Effectiveness and Gastrointestinal Disturbances Versus Water and a Sports Drink in Physically Active People
Authors: Aragón-Vargas Luis F. , Garzón-Mosquera Julián C. , Montoya-Arroyo Johnny A.
Published: May 2024

Postexercise hydration is fundamental to replace fluid loss from sweat. This study evaluated rehydration and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms for each of three beverages: water (W), sports drink (SD), and skimmed, lactose-free milk (SLM) after moderate-intensity cycling in the heat. Sixteen college students completed three exercise sessions each to lose ≈2% of their body mass. They drank 150% of body mass loss of the drink assigned in randomized order; net fluid balance, diuresis, and GI symptoms were measured and followed up for 3 hr after completion of fluid intake. SLM showed higher fluid retention (∼69%) versus W (∼40%; p < .001); SD (∼56%) was not different from SLM or W (p > .05). Net fluid balance was higher for SLM (−0.26 kg) and SD (−0.42 kg) than W (−0.67 kg) after 3 hr (p < .001), resulting from a significantly lower diuresis with SLM. Reported GI disturbances were mild and showed no difference among drinks (p > .05) despite ingestion of W (1,992 ± 425 ml), SD (1,999 ± 429 ml), and SLM (1,993 ± 426 ml) in 90 min. In conclusion, SLM was more effective than W for postexercise rehydration, showing greater fluid retention for the 3-hr follow-up and presenting with low-intensity GI symptoms similar to those with W and SD. These results confirm that SLM is an effective option for hydration after exercise in the heat.
Physical Education Access in U.S. Public Schools: A Multistate, Multiregion Study
Authors: Kern Ben D. , Wilson Wesley J. , Killian Chad , van der Mars Hans , Simonton Kelly , Woo David , Wallhead Tristan
Published: May 2024

Purpose: Our purpose was to gather and evaluate accurate, up-to-date information on physical education (PE) policy implementation across multiple U.S. states and regions. Methods: A U.S. Physical Education and Physical Activity Policy questionnaire was developed and completed by 4,845 public-school PE teachers from 25 U.S. states. The U.S. Physical Education and Physical Activity Policy assessed PE quantity (days per week and minutes per week), class sizes by grade level, and practices that limit PE access. Descriptive statistics and correlations of PE minutes per week with class size were calculated in aggregate and individually by state. Results: Aggregate PE quantities in elementary, middle school, high school, and for students with disabilities were well below the recommendations (150 min/week elementary and 225 min/week secondary) and varied between states. Average students/class varied by state, and significant positive correlations between weekly PE minutes and students/PE class were observed. Discussion: PE access is limited across the United States, and stronger commitment to PE policy and policy implementation is needed.
Recovering palladium and gold by peroxydisulfate-based advanced oxidation process
Authors: Ding Anting , Li Ming , Liu Chuanying , Chee Tien-Shee , Yan Qibin , Lei Lecheng , Xiao Chengliang
Published: May 2024

Palladium (Pd) and gold (Au) are the most often used precious metals (PMs) in industrial catalysis and electronics. Green recycling of Pd and Au is crucial and difficult. Here, we report a peroxydisulfate (PDS)–based advanced oxidation process (AOPs) for selectively recovering Pd and Au from spent catalysts. The PDS/NaCl photochemical system achieves complete dissolution of Pd and Au. By introducing Fe(II), the PDS/FeCl
2
·4H
2
O solution functioned as Fenton-like system, enhancing the leaching efficiency without xenon (Xe) lamp irradiation. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR),
18
O isotope tracing experiments, and density functional theory calculations revealed that the reactive oxidation species of SO
4
·
−
, ·OH, and Fe(IV)═O were responsible for the oxidative dissolution process. Lixiviant leaching and one-step electrodeposition recovered high-purity Pd and Au. Strong acids, poisonous cyanide, and volatile organic solvents were not used during the whole recovery, which enables an efficient and sustainable precious metal recovery approach and encourage AOP technology for secondary resource recycling.
Unraveling electronic origins for boosting thermoelectric performance of p-type (Bi,Sb)
2
Te
3
Authors: Cheng Rui , Ge Haoran , Huang Shengpu , Xie Sen , Tong Qiwei , Sang Hao , Yan Fan , Zhu Liangyu , Wang Rui , Liu Yong , Hong Min , Uher Ctirad , Zhang Qingjie , Liu Wei , Tang Xinfeng
Published: May 2024

P-type Bi

2−

x

Sb

x

Te
3
compounds are crucial for thermoelectric applications at room temperature, with Bi
0.5
Sb
1.5
Te
3
demonstrating superior performance, attributed to its maximum density-of-states effective mass (
m
*). However, the underlying electronic origin remains obscure, impeding further performance optimization. Herein, we synthesized high-quality Bi

2−

x

Sb

x

Te
3
(00
l
) films and performed comprehensive angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) measurements and band structure calculations to shed light on the electronic structures. ARPES results directly evidenced that the band convergence along the

Γ
¯

-

M
¯

direction contributes to the maximum
m
* of Bi
0.5
Sb
1.5
Te
3
. Moreover, strategic manipulation of intrinsic defects optimized the hole density of Bi
0.5
Sb
1.5
Te
3
, allowing the extra valence band along

Γ
¯

-

K
¯

to contribute to the electrical transport. The synergy of the above two aspects documented the electronic origins of the Bi
0.5
Sb
1.5
Te
3
’s superior performance that resulted in an extraordinary power factor of ~5.5 milliwatts per meter per square kelvin. The study offers valuable guidance for further performance optimization of p-type Bi

2−

x

Sb

x

Te
3
.
Heart failure promotes multimorbidity through innate immune memory
Authors: Nakayama Yukiteru , Fujiu Katsuhito , Oshima Tsukasa , Matsuda Jun , Sugita Junichi , Matsubara Takumi James , Liu Yuxiang , Goto Kohsaku , Kani Kunihiro , Uchida Ryoko , Takeda Norifumi , Morita Hiroyuki , Xiao Yingda , Hayashi Michiko , Maru Yujin , Hasumi Eriko , Kojima Toshiya , Ishiguro Soh , Kijima Yusuke , Yachie Nozomu , Yamazaki Satoshi , Yamamoto Ryo , Kudo Fujimi , Nakanishi Mio , Iwama Atsushi , Fujiki Ryoji , Kaneda Atsushi , Ohara Osamu , Nagai Ryozo , Manabe Ichiro , Komuro Issei
Published: May 2024

Patients with heart failure (HF) often experience repeated acute decompensation and develop comorbidities such as chronic kidney disease and frailty syndrome. Although this suggests pathological interaction among comorbidities, the mechanisms linking them are poorly understood. Here, we identified alterations in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) as a critical driver of recurrent HF and associated comorbidities. Bone marrow transplantation from HF-experienced mice resulted in spontaneous cardiac dysfunction and fibrosis in recipient mice, as well as increased vulnerability to kidney and skeletal muscle insults. HF enhanced the capacity of HSCs to generate proinflammatory macrophages. In HF mice, global chromatin accessibility analysis and single-cell RNA-seq showed that transforming growth factor–β (TGF-β) signaling was suppressed in HSCs, which corresponded with repressed sympathetic nervous activity in bone marrow. Transplantation of bone marrow from mice in which TGF-β signaling was inhibited similarly exacerbated cardiac dysfunction. Collectively, these results suggest that cardiac stress modulates the epigenome of HSCs, which in turn alters their capacity to generate cardiac macrophage subpopulations. This change in HSCs may be a common driver of repeated HF events and comorbidity by serving as a key carrier of “stress memory.”
Bacterial-fungal crosstalk is defined by a fungal lactone mycotoxin and its degradation by a bacterial lactonase
Authors: Dor Shlomit , Nudel Keren , Eagan Justin L. , Cohen Rami , Hull Christina M. , Keller Nancy P. , Prusky Dov , Afriat-Jurnou Livnat
Published: May 2024

Bacteria, fungi, and mammals contain lactonases that can degrade the Gram-negative bacterial quorum sensing (QS) molecules N-acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs). AHLs are critical for bacteria to coordinate gene expression and pathogenicity with population density. However, AHL-degrading lactonases present variable substrate ranges, including degradation of the
Pencillium expansum
lactone mycotoxin patulin. We selected
Erwinia
spp. as our model bacteria to further investigate this interaction. We find both native apple microbiome
Erwinia
spp. and the fruit tree pathogen
Erwinia amylovora
to be inhibited by patulin. At patulin concentrations that inhibited
E. amylovora
growth, expression of
E. amylovora
lactonase encoded by
EaaiiA
was increased. EaAiiA demonstrated the ability to degrade patulin
in vitro,
as well, as
in vivo
where it reduced apple disease and patulin production by
P. expansum
. Fungal-bacterial co-cultures revealed that the
E. amylovora
Δ
eaaiia
strain failed to protect apples from
P. expansum
infections, which contained significant amounts of patulin. Our results suggest that bacterial lactonase production can modulate the pathogenicity of
P. expansum
in response to the secretion of toxic patulin.

IMPORTANCE

Chemical signaling in the microbial world facilitates the regulation of gene expression as a function of cell population density. This is especially true for the Gram-negative bacterial signal N-acyl homoserine lactone (AHL). Lactonases that deactivate AHLs have attracted a lot of attention because of their antibacterial potential. However, the involvement of these enzymes in inhibiting fungal pathogens and the potential role of these enzymes in bacterial-fungal interactions are unknown. Here, we find that a bacterial enzyme involved in the degradation of AHLs is also induced by and degrades the fungal lactone mycotoxin, patulin. This work supports the potential use of bacterial enzymes and/or the producing bacteria in controlling the post-harvest fruit disease caused by the patulin-producing fungus
Penicillium expansum
.
Host obesity impacts genetic variation in influenza A viral populations
Authors: Knoll Marissa , Honce Rebekah , Meliopoulos Victoria , Segredo-Otero Ernesto Alejandro , Johnson Katherine E.E. , Schultz-Cherry Stacey , Ghedin Elodie , Gresham David
Published: May 2024

Obesity is well established as a risk factor for many noncommunicable diseases; however, its consequences for infectious disease are poorly understood. Here, we investigated the impact of host obesity on influenza A virus (IAV) genetic variation using a diet-induced obesity ferret model and the A/Hong Kong/1073/1999 (H9N2) strain. Using a co-caging study design, we investigated the maintenance, generation, and transmission of intrahost IAV genetic variation by sequencing viral genomic RNA obtained from nasal wash samples over multiple days of infection. We found evidence for an enhanced role of positive selection acting on
de novo
mutations in obese hosts that led to nonsynonymous changes that rose to high frequency. In addition, we identified numerous cases of mutations throughout the genome that were specific to obese hosts and that were preserved during transmission between hosts. Despite detection of obese-specific variants, the overall viral genetic diversity did not differ significantly between obese and lean hosts. This is likely due to the high supply rate of
de novo
variation and common evolutionary adaptations to the ferret host regardless of obesity status, which we show are mediated by variation in the hemagglutinin and polymerase genes (PB2 and PB1). We also identified defective viral genomes (DVGs) that were found uniquely in either obese or lean hosts, but the overall DVG diversity and dynamics did not differ between the two groups. Our study suggests that obesity may result in a unique selective environment impacting intrahost IAV evolution, highlighting the need for additional genetic and functional studies to confirm these effects.

IMPORTANCE

Obesity is a chronic health condition characterized by excess adiposity leading to a systemic increase in inflammation and dysregulation of metabolic hormones and immune cell populations. Influenza A virus (IAV) is a highly infectious pathogen responsible for seasonal and pandemic influenza. Host risk factors, including compromised immunity and pre-existing health conditions, can contribute to increased infection susceptibility and disease severity. During viral replication in a host, the negative-sense single-stranded RNA genome of IAV accumulates genetic diversity that may have important consequences for viral evolution and transmission. Our study provides the first insight into the consequences of host obesity on viral genetic diversity and adaptation, suggesting that host factors associated with obesity alter the selective environment experienced by a viral population, thereby impacting the spectrum of genetic variation.
Genomic testing in neonates
Authors: Salkind Jessica , Mintoft Alison , Kendall Giles , Ashraf Tazeen
Published: May 2024

Recent technological advances have led to the expansion of testing options for newborns with suspected rare genetic conditions, particularly in high-income healthcare settings. This article summarises the key genomic testing approaches, their indications and potential limitations.
Relationship between oscillatory volume and oscillatory pressure in neonatal high-frequency oscillatory ventilators: an in vitro study
Authors: Zannin Emanuela , Rigotti Camilla , Dellacà Raffaele L , Ventura Maria Luisa
Published: May 2024

Objective

We analysed the relationship between oscillatory volume (VOSC) and pressure amplitude (ΔP) in six neonatal high-frequency oscillatory (HFO) ventilators and related it to (1) the accuracy of VOSCand ΔP measurements and (2) the maximal delivered ΔP.

Design

In vitro study.

Setting

Neonatal intensive care unit.

Interventions

Ventilators tested were VN800 (Dräger), Servo-n (Maquet Getinge), SensorMedics 3100A (Vyaire Medical), Fabian HFOi (Vyaire Medical), SLE6000 (SLE UK) and Humming Vue (Metran). We changed various settings and mechanical characteristics of the test lung to mimic preterm and term conditions.

Main outcome measures

For each condition, we measured VOSCand ΔP. We assessed the accuracy of the VOSCand ΔP measurements versus a reference measurement system using linear regression and Bland-Altman analysis. We evaluated the maximum delivered ΔP at different oscillatory frequencies.

Results

We observed large variability between machines in the ΔP displayed at any target VOSC. Most ventilators over-read ΔP with errors up to 30 cmH2O or 60%. The error in the measurement of VOSCwas up to ±2 mL or ±30%. We observed high variability in the accuracy of ΔP and VOSCmeasurements; the SLE6000 committed the lowest errors in ΔP measurements and the Fabian HFOi in VOSC. The maximum delivered ΔP varied depending on the ventilator, being maximal for the Humming Vue, followed by the SLE6000 and SensorMedics 3100A.

Conclusions

The variability in the relationship between VOSCand ΔP among HFO ventilators is largely explained by the variable accuracy in ΔP and VOSCmeasurement. Different ventilators also exhibit important differences in the maximal generated ΔP.