bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design Considerations and Robustness to Parameter Uncertainty in Wire-Wrapped Cam Mechanisms
Authors: Johnston Garrison L. H. , Orekhov Andrew L. , Simaan Nabil
Published: January 2023

Collaborative robots must simultaneously be safe enough to operate in close proximity to human operators and powerful enough to assist users in industrial tasks such as lifting heavy equipment. The requirement for safety necessitates that collaborative robots are designed with low-powered actuators. However, some industrial tasks may require the robot to have high payload capacity and/or long reach. For collaborative robot designs to be successful, they must find ways of addressing these conflicting design requirements. One promising strategy for navigating this tradeoff is through the use of static balancing mechanisms to offset the robot’s self-weight, thus enabling the selection of low-powered actuators. In this paper, we introduce a novel, two degrees-of-freedom static balancing mechanism based on spring-loaded, wire-wrapped cams. We also present an optimization-based cam design method that guarantees the cams stay convex, ensures the springs stay below their extensions limits, and minimizes sensitivity to unmodeled deviations from the nominal spring constant. Additionally, we present a model of the effect of friction between the wire and the cam. Lastly, we show experimentally that the torque generated by the cam mechanism matches the torque predicted in our modeling approach. Our results also suggest that the effects of wire-cam friction are significant for non-circular cams.
Theoretical Development in the Viscosity of Ferrofluid
Authors: Bhandari Anupam
Published: January 2023

The viscosity of ferrofluid has a vital role in liquid sealing of the hard disk drives, biomedical applications as drug delivery, hyperthermia, and magnetic resonance imaging. The theoretical expressions for ferrofluid viscosity and its limitation are presented in detail in this article. A qualitative comparison of the theoretical and experimental viscosity results is also shown. In the absence of a magnetic field, the viscosity of ferrofluid depends on the volume concentration of magnetic nanoparticles, including surfactant layers. However, the viscosity of ferrofluid due to stationary magnetic field depends on the angle between the applied magnetic field and vorticity in the flow. If this angle is 90 deg, then there is a maximum increase in the viscosity. When field frequency matches with the relaxation time, known as resonance condition, then there is no impact of an alternating magnetic field in the viscosity of ferrofluid. If the frequency of an alternating magnetic field is less than resonance frequency, then an alternating magnetic field increases the viscosity of ferrofluid. For diluted ferrofluid, present theoretical results of viscosity have good agreement with the experimental data.
Effects of Axial Clearance on Surface Initiated Flaking in Tapered Roller Bearings
Authors: Takahashi Ken , Nagatomo Takafumi
Published: January 2023

The calculating method for fatigue life of rolling bearings is based on the theory of Lundberg and Palmgren. The rated life is determined from the ratio of the dynamic load rating of the bearing to the dynamic equivalent load. However, in actual applications, flaking damage may occur earlier than this rated life. For example, surface initiated flaking may occur due to contamination in the lubricant. In addition, differences in the internal clearance of bearings are also thought to influence the occurrence of surface initiated flaking. This study aims to investigate the effect of different internal clearance on surface initiated flaking in tapered roller bearings. First, rotating tests were conducted on combination tapered roller bearings with dented raceways under several axial clearances different from the standard condition. Second, the surface profiles of the bearings before and after the tests were compared to investigate the relationship between the distribution of flaking area and the axial clearance. Furthermore, the effect of axial clearance on the surface initiated flaking life was clarified from the comparison between the results of the rotating tests. Finally, the theoretical and experimental lives were compared. As a result, it has been found that when the axial clearance is excessively large, the distribution of flaking is biased toward the large diameter side of the outer raceway. In addition, it has been demonstrated that the bearing life is substantially affected by the axial clearance, and that the bearing life shortens as the axial clearance increases.
ACOUSTICAL NEWS
Authors: Moran Elaine
Published: January 2023

Editor's Note: Readers of this journal are encouraged to submit news items on awards, appointments, and other activities about themselves or their colleagues. Deadline dates for news and notices are 2 months prior to publication.
Commensal microbiome promotes hair follicle regeneration by inducing keratinocyte HIF-1α signaling and glutamine metabolism
Authors: Wang Gaofeng , Sweren Evan , Andrews William , Li Yue , Chen Junjun , Xue Yingchao , Wier Eric , Alphonse Martin P. , Luo Li , Miao Yong , Chen Ruosi , Zeng Dongqiang , Lee Sam , Li Ang , Dare Erika , Kim Dongwon , Archer Nathan K. , Reddy Sashank K. , Resar Linda , Hu Zhiqi , Grice Elizabeth A. , Kane Maureen A. , Garza Luis A.
Published: January 2023

Tissue injury induces metabolic changes in stem cells, which likely modulate regeneration. Using a model of organ regeneration called wound-induced hair follicle neogenesis (WIHN), we identified skin-resident bacteria as key modulators of keratinocyte metabolism, demonstrating a positive correlation between bacterial load, glutamine metabolism, and regeneration. Specifically, through comprehensive multiomic analysis and single-cell RNA sequencing in murine skin, we show that bacterially induced hypoxia drives increased glutamine metabolism in keratinocytes with attendant enhancement of skin and hair follicle regeneration. In human skin wounds, topical broad-spectrum antibiotics inhibit glutamine production and are partially responsible for reduced healing. These findings reveal a conserved and coherent physiologic context in which bacterially induced metabolic changes improve the tolerance of stem cells to damage and enhance regenerative capacity. This unexpected proregenerative modulation of metabolism by the skin microbiome in both mice and humans suggests important methods for enhancing regeneration after injury.
The repertoire of CSF antiviral antibodies in patients with neuroinflammatory diseases
Authors: Enose-Akahata Yoshimi , Wang Limin , Almsned Fahad , Johnson Kory R. , Mina Yair , Ohayon Joan , Wang Xin Wei , Jacobson Steven
Published: January 2023

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Although various viruses have been proposed to contribute to MS pathology, the etiology of MS remains unknown. Since intrathecal antibody synthesis is well documented in chronic viral infection and neuroinflammatory diseases, we hypothesized whether the patterns of antigen-specific antibody responses associated with various viral exposures may define patients with CNS chronic immune dysregulation. The pan-viral antibody profiling in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum of patients with MS showed significant differences from those in healthy volunteers and a pattern of antibody responses against multiple viruses, including the previously identified Epstein-Barr virus. These findings demonstrate that virus-specific antibody signatures might be able to reflect disease-associated inflammatory milieu in CSF of subjects with neuroinflammatory diseases.
Lactate metabolism is essential in early-onset mitochondrial myopathy
Authors: Chen Zhenkang , Bordieanu Bogdan , Kesavan Rushendhiran , Lesner Nicholas P. , Venigalla Siva Sai Krishna , Shelton Spencer D. , DeBerardinis Ralph J. , Mishra Prashant
Published: January 2023

Myopathies secondary to mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) dysfunction can result in devastating disease. While the consequences of ETC defects have been extensively studied in culture, little in vivo data are available. Using a mouse model of severe, early-onset mitochondrial myopathy, we characterized the proteomic, transcriptomic, and metabolic characteristics of disease progression. Unexpectedly, ETC dysfunction in muscle results in reduced expression of glycolytic enzymes in our animal model and patient muscle biopsies. The decrease in glycolysis was mediated by loss of constitutive Hif1α signaling, down-regulation of the purine nucleotide cycle enzyme AMPD1, and activation of AMPK. In vivo isotope tracing experiments indicated that myopathic muscle relies on lactate import to supply central carbon metabolites. Inhibition of lactate import reduced steady-state levels of tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates and compromised the life span of myopathic mice. These data indicate an unexpected mode of metabolic reprogramming in severe mitochondrial myopathy that regulates disease progression.
Magnetic molecular orbitals in MnSi
Authors: Jin Zhendong , Li Yangmu , Hu Zhigang , Hu Biaoyan , Liu Yiran , Iida Kazuki , Kamazawa Kazuya , Stone Matthew B. , Kolesnikov Alexander I. , Abernathy Douglas L. , Zhang Xiangyu , Chen Haiyang , Wang Yandong , Fang Chen , Wu Biao , Zaliznyak Igor A. , Tranquada John M. , Li Yuan
Published: January 2023

A large body of knowledge about magnetism is attained from models of interacting spins, which usually reside on magnetic ions. Proposals beyond the ionic picture are uncommon and seldom verified by direct observations in conjunction with microscopic theory. Here, using inelastic neutron scattering to study the itinerant near-ferromagnet MnSi, we find that the system’s fundamental magnetic units are interconnected, extended molecular orbitals consisting of three Mn atoms each rather than individual Mn atoms. This result is further corroborated by magnetic Wannier orbitals obtained by ab initio calculations. It contrasts the ionic picture with a concrete example and presents an unexplored regime of the spin waves where the wavelength is comparable to the spatial extent of the molecular orbitals. Our discovery brings important insights into not only the magnetism of MnSi but also a broad range of magnetic quantum materials where structural symmetry, electron itinerancy, and correlations act in concert.
A nanofiber-hydrogel composite improves tissue repair in a rat model of Crohn’s disease perianal fistulas
Authors: Li Ling , Yao Zhi-Cheng , Parian Alyssa , Yang Yueh-Hsun , Chao Jeffrey , Yin Jason , Salimian Kevan J. , Reddy Sashank K. , Zaheer Atif , Gearhart Susan L. , Mao Hai-Quan , Selaru Florin M.
Published: January 2023

Perianal fistulas (PAFs) represent a severe complication of Crohn’s disease (CD). Despite the advent of biologic and small-molecule therapeutics for luminal disease, PAFs in CD (CD-PAF) are relatively resistant to treatment, with less than 50% responding to any therapy. We report an injectable, biodegradable, mechanically fragmented nanofiber-hydrogel composite (mfNHC) loaded with adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) for the treatment of fistulas in a rat model of CD-PAF. The ADSC-loaded mfNHC results in a higher degree of healing when compared to surgical treatment of fistulas, which is a standard treatment. The volume of fistulas treated with mfNHC is decreased sixfold compared to the surgical treatment control. Molecular studies reveal that utilization of mfNHC reduced local inflammation and improved tissue regeneration. This study demonstrates that ADSC-loaded mfNHC is a promising therapy for CD-PAF, and warrants further studies to advance mfNHC toward clinical translation.
Structural basis for HIV-1 antagonism of host APOBEC3G via Cullin E3 ligase
Authors: Ito Fumiaki , Alvarez-Cabrera Ana L. , Liu Shiheng , Yang Hanjing , Shiriaeva Anna , Zhou Z. Hong , Chen Xiaojiang S.
Published: January 2023

Human APOBEC3G (A3G) is a virus restriction factor that inhibits HIV-1 replication and triggers lethal hypermutation on viral reverse transcripts. HIV-1 viral infectivity factor (Vif) breaches this host A3G immunity by hijacking a cellular E3 ubiquitin ligase complex to target A3G for ubiquitination and degradation. The molecular mechanism of A3G targeting by Vif-E3 ligase is unknown, limiting the antiviral efforts targeting this host-pathogen interaction crucial for HIV-1 infection. Here, we report the cryo–electron microscopy structures of A3G bound to HIV-1 Vif in complex with T cell transcription cofactor CBF-β and multiple components of the Cullin-5 RING E3 ubiquitin ligase. The structures reveal unexpected RNA-mediated interactions of Vif with A3G primarily through A3G’s noncatalytic domain, while A3G’s catalytic domain is poised for ubiquitin transfer. These structures elucidate the molecular mechanism by which HIV-1 Vif hijacks the host ubiquitin ligase to specifically target A3G to establish infection and offer structural information for the rational development of antiretroviral therapeutics.
Dynamic semiconductor-electrolyte interface for sustainable solar water splitting over 600 hours under neutral conditions
Authors: Gao Rui-Ting , Nguyen Nhat Truong , Nakajima Tomohiko , He Jinlu , Liu Xianhu , Zhang Xueyuan , Wang Lei , Wu Limin
Published: January 2023

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting that functions in pH-neutral electrolyte attracts increasing attention to energy demand sustainability. Here, we propose a strategy to in situ form a NiB layer by tuning the composition of the neutral electrolyte with the additions of nickel and borate species, which improves the PEC performance of the BiVO
4
photoanode. The NiB/BiVO
4
exhibits a photocurrent density of 6.0 mA cm
−2
at 1.23 V
RHE
with an onset potential of 0.2 V
RHE
under 1 sun illumination. The photoanode displays a photostability of over 600 hours in a neutral electrolyte. The additive of Ni
2+
in the electrolyte, which efficiently inhibits the dissolution of NiB, can accelerate the photogenerated charge transfer and enhance the water oxidation kinetics. The borate species with B─O bonds act as a promoter of catalyst activity by accelerating proton-coupled electron transfer. The synergy effect of both species suppresses the surface charge recombination and inhibits the photocorrosion of BiVO
4
.
Bifunctional cancer cell–based vaccine concomitantly drives direct tumor killing and antitumor immunity
Authors: Chen Kok-Siong , Reinshagen Clemens , Van Schaik Thijs A. , Rossignoli Filippo , Borges Paulo , Mendonca Natalia Claire , Abdi Reza , Simon Brennan , Reardon David A. , Wakimoto Hiroaki , Shah Khalid
Published: January 2023

The administration of inactivated tumor cells is known to induce a potent antitumor immune response; however, the efficacy of such an approach is limited by its inability to kill tumor cells before inducing the immune responses. Unlike inactivated tumor cells, living tumor cells have the ability to track and target tumors. Here, we developed a bifunctional whole cancer cell–based therapeutic with direct tumor killing and immunostimulatory roles. We repurposed the tumor cells from interferon-β (IFN-β) sensitive to resistant using CRISPR-Cas9 by knocking out the IFN-β–specific receptor and subsequently engineered them to release immunomodulatory agents IFN-β and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor. These engineered therapeutic tumor cells (ThTCs) eliminated established glioblastoma tumors in mice by inducing caspase-mediated cancer cell apoptosis, down-regulating cancer-associated fibroblast-expressed platelet-derived growth factor receptor β, and activating antitumor immune cell trafficking and antigen-specific T cell activation signaling. This mechanism-based efficacy of ThTCs translated into a survival benefit and long-term immunity in primary, recurrent, and metastatic cancer models in immunocompetent and humanized mice. The incorporation of a double kill-switch comprising herpes simplex virus–1 thymidine kinase and rapamycin-activated caspase 9 in ThTCs ensured the safety of our approach. Arming naturally neoantigen-rich tumor cells with bifunctional therapeutics represents a promising cell-based immunotherapy for solid tumors and establishes a road map toward clinical translation.
Diversity of σ
66
-Specific Promoters Contributes to Regulation of Developmental Gene Expression in Chlamydia trachomatis
Authors: Shen Li , Gao Leiqiong , Zhang Yan , Hua Ziyu
Published: January 2023

Meticulous promoter elucidation is required to understand the foundations of transcription initiation. However, knowledge of promoter-specific transcription remains limited in
C. trachomatis
. This work underscores the structural and functional plasticity of σ
66
-specific promoters that are regulated by σ
66
RNAP, as well as their importance in the developmental gene regulation of
C. trachomatis
.
Combined Immune Checkpoint Blockade Enhances Antiviral Immunity against Bovine Leukemia Virus
Authors: Nakamura Hayato , Konnai Satoru , Okagawa Tomohiro , Maekawa Naoya , Sajiki Yamato , Watari Kei , Kamitani Kana , Saito Maya , Kato Yukinari , Suzuki Yasuhiko , Murata Shiro , Ohashi Kazuhiko
Published: January 2023

Enzootic bovine leukosis caused by bovine leukemia virus (BLV) is an important viral disease in cattle, causing severe economic losses to the cattle industry worldwide. The molecular mechanisms of BLV-host interactions are complex.
Characterization of a Unique Novel LORF3 Protein of Duck Plague Virus and Its Potential Pathogenesis
Authors: Shen Bingjie , Ruan Peilin , Cheng Anchun , Wang Mingshu , Zhang Wei , Wu Ying , Yang Qiao , Tian Bin , Ou Xumin , Mao Sai , Sun Di , Zhang Shaqiu , Zhu Dekang , Jia Renyong , Chen Shun , Liu Mafeng , Zhao Xin-Xin , Huang Juan , Gao Qun , Yu Yanling , Zhang Ling , Pan Leichang
Published: January 2023

DPV is a highly lethal alphaherpesvirus that causes duck plague in birds of the order Anseriformes. The virus has caused huge economic losses to the poultry industry due to high morbidity and mortality and the cost of vaccination.
Comparative Transcriptomics of Fusarium graminearum and Magnaporthe oryzae Spore Germination Leading up To Infection
Authors: Miguel-Rojas Cristina , Cavinder Brad , Townsend Jeffrey P. , Trail Frances
Published: January 2023

Fusarium graminearum
and
Magnaporthe oryzae
are two of the most important pathogens of cereal grains worldwide. Despite years of research, strong host resistance has not been identified for
F. graminearum
, so other methods of control are essential.
Central Role of Sibling Small RNAs NgncR_162 and NgncR_163 in Main Metabolic Pathways of Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Steiner Thomas , Zachary Marie , Bauer Susanne , Müller Martin J. , Krischke Markus , Radziej Sandra , Klepsch Maximilian , Huettel Bruno , Eisenreich Wolfgang , Rudel Thomas , Beier Dagmar
Published: January 2023

Neisseria gonorrhoeae
is a major human pathogen which infects more than 100 million people every year. An alarming development is the emergence of gonococcal strains that are resistant against virtually all antibiotics used for their treatment.
Modelling the Gastrointestinal Carriage of Klebsiella pneumoniae Infections
Authors: Calderon-Gonzalez Ricardo , Lee Alix , Lopez-Campos Guillermo , Hancock Steven J. , Sa-Pessoa Joana , Dumigan Amy , McMullan Ronan , Campbell Eric L. , Bengoechea Jose A.
Published: January 2023

Klebsiella pneumoniae
is one of the pathogens that is sweeping the world in the antibiotic resistance pandemic.
Klebsiella
colonizes the nasopharynx and the gut of healthy subjects in an asymptomatic manner, making gut colonization a requisite for infection. This makes it essential to understand the gastrointestinal carriage in preventing
Klebsiella
infections.
Complete Genome Sequence of Nocardia iowensis DSM 45197
T
(= NRRL 5646
T
)
Authors: Collins Fairclough Aneisha , Spröer Cathrin , Swiderski Jolantha , Bunk Boyke , Lamm Andrew S.
Published: January 2023

We report the complete genome sequence and predicted functional profile of
Nocardia iowensis
DSM 45197
T
.
N. iowensis
DSM 45197
T
is a spore-forming, mesophilic, Gram-positive bacterium that was isolated from garden soil in Osceola, Iowa, USA. This organism has been exploited for its production of glycocinnamolyspermidine antibiotics and biotransformation of xenobiotic substances.
Genome Sequence of a Leptospira montravelensis Strain Isolated from Donkey Urine during a Leptospirosis Outbreak in Sardinia Island, Italy
Authors: Piredda Ivana , Bertoldi Loris , Chisu Valentina
Published: January 2023

Leptospirosis is a neglected zoonosis caused by pathogenic spirochetes classified within the genus
Leptospira
. Among saprophytic species,
Leptospira montravelensis
was previously reported only from environmental samples. Here, we report the whole-genome sequence and annotation of a strain of
Leptospira montravelensis
that was isolated from donkey urine during a leptospirosis outbreak in Sardinia, Italy.
Complete Genome Sequence of Vibrio natriegens Strain PWH3a
Authors: Zhong Kevin Xu , Chan Amy M. , Al-Qattan Anwar , Li Yueang , Suttle Curtis A.
Published: January 2023

Vibrio natriegens
strain PWH3a, isolated from the Texas Gulf Coast, is used as a model organism in marine microbiology. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of strain PWH3a, which has two circular chromosomes, 4,650 coding sequences, 34 rRNA, 4 noncoding RNA (ncRNA), 131 tRNA genes, and one Mu-like prophage sequence.
Taxonomic Profiling of Microbes in Glyphosate-Treated Sediment Microcosms
Authors: Newman Madison R. , Sanchez Darlenys , Acosta Anna M. , Connors Bernadette J.
Published: January 2023

Here, we report the impact of glyphosate on bacterial populations in sediment microcosms, determined using 16S amplicon sequencing and shotgun metagenomics with source material from a suburban creek. The 16S amplicon and metagenomic data reveal that members of the genus
Pseudomonas
are increased by the treatment.
The DNA Phosphorothioation Restriction-Modification System Influences the Antimicrobial Resistance of Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Xu Congrui , Rao Jing , Xie Yuqing , Lu Jiajun , Li Zhiqiang , Dong Changjiang , Wang Lianrong , Jiang Jinghong , Chen Chao , Chen Shi
Published: January 2023

In this study, we demonstrated the effect of DNA PT modification-based R-M systems on horizontal gene transfer of AMR genes in pathogenic bacteria. We show that there is no apparent association between the genetic background of the strains harboring PT R-Ms and the number of AMR genes or the kinds of gene families.
Comparison of two automated oxygen controllers in oxygen targeting in preterm infants during admission: an observational study
Authors: Salverda Hylke H , Dekker Janneke , Lopriore Enrico , Dargaville Peter A , Pauws Steffen C , te Pas Arjan B
Published: January 2023

Objective

To compare the effect of two different automated oxygen control devices on time preterm infants spent in different oxygen saturation (SpO2) ranges during their entire stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Design

Retrospective cohort study of prospectively collected data.

Setting

Tertiary level neonatal unit in the Netherlands.

Patients

Preterm infants (OxyGenie 75 infants, CLiO2111 infants) born at 24–29 weeks’ gestation receiving at least 72 hours of respiratory support between October 2015 and November 2020.

Interventions

Inspired oxygen concentration was titrated by the OxyGenie controller (SLE6000 ventilator) between February 2019 and November 2020 and the CLiO2controller (AVEA ventilator) between October 2015 and December 2018 as standard of care.

Main outcome measures

Time spent within SpO2target range (TR, 91–95% for either epoch) and other SpO2ranges.

Results

Time spent within the SpO2TR when receiving supplemental oxygen was higher during OxyGenie control (median 71.5 [IQR 64.6–77.0]% vs 51.3 [47.3–58.5]%, p<0.001). Infants under OxyGenie control spent less time in hypoxic and hyperoxic ranges (SpO2<80%: 0.7 [0.4–1.4]% vs 1.2 [0.7–2.3]%, p<0.001; SpO2>98%: 1.0 [0.5–2.4]% vs 4.0 [2.0–7.9]%, p<0.001). Both groups received a similar FiO2(29.5 [28.0–33.2]% vs 29.6 [27.7–32.1]%, p=not significant).

Conclusions

Oxygen saturation targeting was significantly different in the OxyGenie epoch in preterm infants, with less time in hypoxic and hyperoxic SpO2ranges during their stay in the NICU.
Hypertriglyceridemia with pancreatitis at disease onset in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Atlani Mahendra , Bhatt Girish C , Tarachandani Divya , Charan Venkatesh
Published: January 2023

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterised by the presence of several autoantibodies, immune complex formation and multiple organ system involvement. SLE has a wide range of manifestations involving nearly all organ systems. Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) in SLE is a well-established and a common abnormality, which is generally mild and not included in the diagnostic criteria of SLE. HTG as the initial manifestation of SLE in adult patients in association with acute pancreatitis at levels below 1000 mg/dL has not been previously reported. Here, we report a case of rare presentation of moderate HTG (TG-869 mg/dL) with pancreatitis at disease onset in an adult women which later proved to be due to SLE and progressed to levels of severe HTG during the course of illness. The patient was successfully treated with plasma exchanges and cyclophosphamide.
Chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis with a comprehensive approach to differential diagnosis of paediatric skull pain
Authors: Fraleigh Ross , Wei Xing-Chang , Yu Weiming , Miettunen Paivi Maria
Published: January 2023

A girl in middle childhood was referred to rheumatology with a 1-month history of progressive skull pain, preceded by fleeting musculoskeletal symptoms. Apart from a scaly rash on her scalp, she was well, with moderately elevated inflammatory markers. Skull imaging (radiographs, CT and MRI) revealed osteolytic lesions, soft tissue swelling and pachymeningeal enhancement at frontal and temporal convexities. Langerhans cell histiocytosis, bone infection/inflammation or malignancy was considered. Skin and bone biopsies eventually ruled out mimicking diseases and confirmed the diagnosis of chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO). She was treated with intravenous pamidronate (IVPAM) for 9 months, with rapid resolution of pain and gradual resolution of bony abnormalities. She remains in remission at 15-month follow-up. While CRMO can affect any bone, skull involvement is extremely rare, with a broad differential diagnosis. We recommend bone biopsy to confirm skull CRMO. The patient achieved excellent clinical and radiological response to IVPAM.
Diagnostic accuracy of FibroScan-AST (FAST) score for the non-invasive identification of patients with fibrotic non-alcoholic steatohepatitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ravaioli Federico , Dajti Elton , Mantovani Alessandro , Newsome Philip Noel , Targher Giovanni , Colecchia Antonio
Published: January 2023

Objective

A simple combined score with liver stiffness, controlled attenuation parameter and serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), the FibroScan-AST (FAST) score, has been proposed to non-invasively identify patients with fibrotic non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies to evaluate the overall diagnostic accuracy of the FAST score in identifying patients with fibrotic NASH.

Design

We systematically searched MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Scopus and Cochrane Library electronic databases for full-text published articles in any language between 3 February 2020 and 30 April 2022. We included original articles that reported data for the calculation of sensitivity and specificity of the FAST score for identifying adult patients with fibrotic NASH adults, according to previously described rule-out (≤0.35) and rule-in (≥0.67) cut-offs.

Results

We included 12 observational studies for a total of 5835 participants with biopsy-confirmed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The pooled prevalence of fibrotic NASH was 28% (95% CI 21% to 34%). The FAST score’s pooled sensitivity was 89% (95% CI 82% to 93%), and the pooled specificity was 89% (95% CI 83% to 94%) according to the aforementioned rule-in/rule-out cut-offs. The negative predictive value and positive predictive value of the FAST score were 92% (95% CI 91% to 95%) and 65% (95% CI 53% to 68%), respectively. Subgroup analyses and influential bias analyses did not alter these findings.

Conclusion

The results of our meta-analysis show that the FAST score has a good performance for non-invasive diagnosis of fibrotic NASH. Therefore, this score can be used to efficiently identify patients who should be referred for a conclusive liver biopsy and/or consideration for treatment with emerging pharmacotherapies.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022350945.
Human soft tissue sarcomas harbor an intratumoral viral microbiome which is linked with natural killer cell infiltrate and prognosis
Authors: Perry Lauren M , Cruz Sylvia M , Kleber Kara T , Judge Sean J , Darrow Morgan A , Jones Louis B , Basmaci Ugur N , Joshi Nikhil , Settles Matthew L , Durbin-Johnson Blythe P , Gingrich Alicia A , Monjazeb Arta Monir , Carr-Ascher Janai , Thorpe Steve W , Murphy William J , Eisen Jonathan A , Canter Robert J
Published: January 2023

Background

Groundbreaking studies have linked the gut microbiome with immune homeostasis and antitumor immune responses. Mounting evidence has also demonstrated an intratumoral microbiome, including in soft tissue sarcomas (STS), although detailed characterization of the STS intratumoral microbiome is limited. We sought to characterize the intratumoral microbiome in patients with STS undergoing preoperative radiotherapy and surgery, hypothesizing the presence of a distinct intratumoral microbiome with potentially clinically significant microbial signatures.

Methods

We prospectively obtained tumor and stool samples from adult patients with non-metastatic STS using a strict sterile collection protocol to minimize contamination. Metagenomic classification was used to estimate abundance using genus and species taxonomic levels across all classified organisms, and data were analyzed with respect to clinicopathologic factors.

Results

Fifteen patients were enrolled. Most tumors were located at an extremity (67%) and were histologic grade 3 (87%). 40% were well-differentiated/dedifferentiated liposarcoma histology. With a median follow-up of 24 months, 4 (27%) patients developed metastases, and 3 (20%) died. Despite overwhelming human DNA (>99%) intratumorally, we detected a small but consistent proportion of bacterial DNA (0.02–0.03%) in all tumors, includingProteobacteria, Bacteroidetes,andFirmicutes, as well as viral species. In the tumor microenvironment, we observed a strong positive correlation between viral relative abundance and natural killer (NK) infiltration, and higher NK infiltration was associated with superior metastasis-free and overall survival by immunohistochemical, flow cytometry, and multiplex immunofluorescence analyses.

Conclusions

We prospectively demonstrate the presence of a distinct and measurable intratumoral microbiome in patients with STS at multiple time points. Our data suggest that the STS tumor microbiome has prognostic significance with viral relative abundance associated with NK infiltration and oncologic outcome. Additional studies are warranted to further assess the clinical impact of these findings.
Fast and reliable detection of repeat expansions in spinocerebellar ataxia using exomes
Authors: Méreaux Jean-Loup , Davoine Claire-Sophie , Coutelier Marie , Guillot-Noël Léna , Castrioto Anna , Charles Perrine , Coarelli Giulia , Ewenczyk Claire , Klebe Stephan , Heinzmann Anna , Méneret Aurélie , Fauret-Amsellem Anne-Laure , de Sainte Agathe Jean-Madeleine , Brice Alexis , Durr Alexandra
Published: January 2023

Usually, molecular diagnosis of spinocerebellar ataxia is based on a step-by-step approach with targeted sizing of four repeat expansions accounting for most dominant cases, then targeted sequencing of other genes. Nowadays, genome sequencing allows detection of most pathogenic variants in a single step. The ExpansionHunter tool can detect expansions in short-read genome sequencing data. Recent studies have shown that ExpansionHunter can also be used to identify repeat expansions in exome sequencing data. We tested ExpansionHunter on spinocerebellar ataxia exomes in a research context as a second-line analysis, after exclusion of main CAG repeat expansions in half of the probands. First, we confirmed the detection of expansions in seven known expansion carriers and then, after targeted analysis ofATXN1,2,3and7,CACNA1A,TBP,ATN1,NOP56,ARandHTTin 498 exomes, we found 22 additional pathogenic expansions. Comparison with capillary migration sizing in 247 individuals and confirmation of all expanded alleles detected by ExpansionHunter demonstrated that for these loci, sensitivity and specificity reached 100%. ExpansionHunter detected but underestimated the repeat size for larger expansions, and the normal alleles distribution at each locus should be taken into account to detect expansions. Exome combined with ExpansionHunter is reliable to detect repeat expansions in selected loci as first-line analysis in spinocerebellar ataxia.
Genetic load in incomplete lupus erythematosus
Authors: Slief Matt , Kheir Joseph M , Smith Miles , Mowery Colin , Macwana Susan , DeJager Wade , Wagner Catriona A , Aberle Teresa , James Judith A , Guthridge Joel M
Published: January 2023

Objective

Patients with incomplete lupus erythematosus (ILE) have lupus features but insufficient criteria for SLE classification. Some patients with ILE transition to SLE, but most avoid major organ involvement. This study tested whether the milder disease course in ILE is influenced by reduced SLE risk allele genetic load.

Methods

We calculated the genetic load based on 99 SLE-associated risk alleles in European American patients with SLE (≥4 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 1997 criteria, n=170), patients with ILE (3 ACR 1997 criteria, n=169), a subset of patients with ILE not meeting Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) classification (ILESLICC, n=119) and healthy controls (n=133). Unweighted genetic loads were calculated as the total sum of risk alleles for each individual, while weighted genetic loads were defined as the sum of risk alleles multiplied by the natural logarithm of the previously published OR of each risk allele for SLE susceptibility.

Results

The median unweighted and weighted SLE risk allele genetic load was significantly greater in patients with ILE (unweighted: 81, p value=0.01; weighted: 16.3, p value=0.001) and patients with SLE (80, p value=0.02; 16.29, p value=0.0006) compared with healthy controls (78, 15.76). Patients with ILESLICCtrended towards an increased genetic load, although not statistically significant (unweighted: 80, p value=0.14; weighted: 16.05, p value=0.07). However, the median genetic load did not significantly differ between ILE and SLE, and genetic load did not differentiate patients with ILE and SLE (area under the curve=0.51, p=0.78) by receiver operator characteristic analysis.

Conclusions

Patients with ILE and SLE have comparable genetic loads of SLE risk loci, suggesting similar genetic predispositions between these conditions. Phenotypical differences between SLE and ILE may instead be influenced by ILE-specific variants and gene–environment interactions.
Reconstructing extended f(P) cubic gravity from entropy-corrected holographic and new agegraphic dark energy models
Authors: Saha Pameli , Maity Sayani , Debnath Ujjal
Published: January 2023

This work deals with the newly approached extended [Formula: see text] cubic gravity in a cosmological background where [Formula: see text] denotes the cubic gravity. Here, we peruse the cosmological nature of the different types of dark energy candidates in the framework of [Formula: see text] gravity. Next, we study the reconstruction scenario of [Formula: see text] gravity model according to ordinary holographic dark energy, ordinary new agegraphic dark energy, entropy-corrected holographic dark energy in power-law and logarithmic versions and entropy-corrected new agegraphic dark energy in power-law and logarithmic versions with two classes of the scale factor. We derive different forms of the unknown function [Formula: see text] in the context of these dark energy candidates. By the trajectories of the EoS parameter [Formula: see text], all models give evidence of their candidature for the explanation of the phantom regime and also the quintessence regime in the late stage of the universe. Also, the stability condition ensures that our reconstructed models are classically stable.
Three-dimensional black holes with scalar hair coupled to a Maxwell-like electrodynamics
Authors: Dehghani M.
Published: January 2023

By consideration of an Einstein-dilaton nonlinear charged gravitating system, it has been shown that this theory is confronted with the problem of indeterminacy. It means that the number of independent differential equations is one less than the number of unknowns. To overcome this problem, the power-law and exponential ansatz functions have been used, separately. Through solving the field equations, in the presence of a Coulomb-like electric field, it has been found that this theory includes two novel classes of charged black holes (BHs) with unusual asymptotic behavior, for each ansatz. It has been found that, under some circumstances, both of the ansatz functions lead to the same results. The novel exact solutions show BHs with one horizon, two horizons and without horizon. Using a Smarr-type mass formula, the validity of the first law of BH thermodynamics (FLT) has been proved, after calculating the thermodynamic and conserved quantities. Making use of thermodynamical and geometrical approaches, thermal stability of the BHs has been analyzed. Results of the aforementioned methods have been compared by use of the plots.
Feedforward and Feedback Modulations Based Foveated JND Estimation for Images
Authors: Yin Haibing , Wang Hongkui , Yu Li , Liang Junhui , Zhai Guangtao
Published: January 2023

The just noticeable difference (JND) reveals the key characteristic of visual perception, which has been widely used in many perception-based image and video applications. Nevertheless, the modulatory mechanism of the human visual system (HVS) has not been fully exploited in JND threshold estimation, which results in the existing JND models not being accurate enough. In this article, by analyzing the feedforward and feedback modulatory behaviors in the HVS, an enhanced foveated JND (FJND) estimation model is proposed considering modulatory effects and masking effects in visual perception. The contributions of this article are mainly twofold. On the one hand, by analyzing the modulatory behaviors in the HVS, the modulatory mechanism is incorporated into JND estimation and a hierarchical modulation-based JND estimation framework is proposed for the first time. On the other hand, according to the response characteristics of visual neurons, modulatory effects on visual sensitivity are formulated as several modulatory factors to modulate the estimated JND threshold properly. Compared with existing models, the proposed model is developed in view of not only the masking effects but also the modulatory effects, which makes our model more consistent with the HVS. For different complex input images, experimental results show that the proposed FJND model tolerates more distortion at the same perceptual quality in comparison with other existing models.
Maternal obesity damages the median eminence blood-brain barrier structure and function in the progeny: the beneficial impact of cross-fostering by lean mothers
Authors: Haddad-Tóvolli Roberta , Morari Joseane , Barbizan Roberta , Bóbbo Vanessa C. , Carraro Rodrigo S. , Solon Carina , Dragano Nathalia R. , Torsoni Márcio A. , Araujo Eliana P. , Velloso Licio A.
Published: January 2023

Maternal dietary habits directly influence offspring health. In this study, we aimed at determining the impact of maternal obesity on BBB integrity. We show that DIO offspring presented a leakier ME–BBB, accompanied by changes in the expression of transcripts encoding for endothelial and tanycytic proteins, as well as of hypothalamic neuropeptides. Breastfeeding in lean dams was sufficient to protect the offspring from ME–BBB disruption, providing a preventive strategy of nutritional intervention during early life.
Odor encoding by signals in the olfactory bulb
Authors: Verhagen Justus V. , Baker Keeley L. , Vasan Ganesh , Pieribone Vincent A. , Rolls Edmund T.
Published: January 2023

We report broad tuning and low odor information available across the lateral and dorsal bulb populations of glomeruli. Even though response latencies can be significantly predictive of stimulus identity, such contained very little information and none that was not redundant with information based on rate coding alone. Last, in line with the emerging notion of the important role of earliest stages of responses (“primacy”), we report a very rapid rise in information after each inhalation.
Evaluation of Pure Titanium Welded Joints Produced by Underwater Friction Stir Welding
Authors: Meikeerthy S. , Ethiraj N. , Neme Ibsa , Masi Chandran
Published: January 2023

Underwater friction stir welding (UWFSW) is an advancement of conventional friction stir welding, which is performed in air. The need for welding underwater calls for more information to be explored in the welding of different materials. The aim of this research is to investigate the UWFSW of 2 mm titanium sheet joints for their tensile and microstructural properties and compare them with the results of friction stir welding (FSW) performed in air. Also, nondestructive tests, such as radiography and dye penetrant tests, were carried out to identify the occurrence of any weld defects. The rotational speed of the FSW tool and its travelling speed were considered process parameters, while other parameters like the tilt angle of the tool, shape of the tool pin, etc. were kept constant. The results show that the welded joints with higher strengths were achieved at a lower travelling speed of 140 mm/min at a rotational speed of 400 and 500 rpm in FSW and UWFSW, respectively. The mechanical properties such as yield strength, tensile strength, and hardness are improved in UWFSW when compared with conventional FSW due to the proper mixing of the metal and effective cooling due to the water environment. In underwater FSW, the improved YS and TS values are observed, which are 95.9% and 75.1% of the base metal values, respectively, when the tool rotational speed is 400 rpm and the travelling speed is 140 mm/min. However, the elongation % is much lower in both FSW and UWFSW when compared with the base metal. These results are supported by microstructure and nondestructive test outcomes.
Identifying Thematics in a Brain‐Computer Interface Research
Authors: Alharbi Hadeel
Published: January 2023

This umbrella review is motivated to understand the shift in research themes on brain‐computer interfacing (BCI) and it determined that a shift away from themes that focus on medical advancement and system development to applications that included education, marketing, gaming, safety, and security has occurred. The background of this review examined aspects of BCI categorisation, neuroimaging methods, brain control signal classification, applications, and ethics. The specific area of BCI software and hardware development was not examined. A search using One Search was undertaken and 92 BCI reviews were selected for inclusion. Publication demographics indicate the average number of authors on review papers considered was 4.2 ± 1.8. The results also indicate a rapid increase in the number of BCI reviews from 2003, with only three reviews before that period, two in 1972, and one in 1996. While BCI authors were predominantly Euro‐American in early reviews, this shifted to a more global authorship, which China dominated by 2020–2022. The review revealed six disciplines associated with BCI systems: life sciences and biomedicine (n = 42), neurosciences and neurology (n = 35), and rehabilitation (n = 20); (2) the second domain centred on the theme of functionality: computer science (n = 20), engineering (n = 28) and technology (n = 38). There was a thematic shift from understanding brain function and modes of interfacing BCI systems to more applied research novel areas of research‐identified surround artificial intelligence, including machine learning, pre‐processing, and deep learning. As BCI systems become more invasive in the lives of “normal” individuals, it is expected that there will be a refocus and thematic shift towards increased research into ethical issues and the need for legal oversight in BCI application.
Matrix Approaches for Covering-Based Multigranulation Fuzzy Rough Set Models
Authors: Chang Zaibin , Wei Junchao
Published: January 2023

Multigranulation rough set theory is one of the most effective tools for data analysis and mining in multicriteria information systems. Six types of covering-based multigranulation fuzzy rough set (CMFRS) models have been constructed through fuzzy

β

-neighborhoods or multigranulation fuzzy measures. However, it is often time-consuming to compute these CMFRS models with a large fuzzy covering using set representation approaches. Hence, presenting novel methods to compute them quickly is our motivation for this paper. In this article, we study the matrix representations of CMFRS models to save time in data processing. Firstly, some new matrices and matrix operations are proposed. Then, matrix representations of optimistic CMFRSs are presented. Moreover, matrix approaches for computing pessimistic CMFRSs are also proposed. Finally, some experiments are proposed to illustrate the effectiveness of our approaches.
Numerical Simulation Analysis of the Jacking Force and Its Influencing Factors during the Vertical Tunneling Process
Authors: Wei Xinjiang , Wang Xiao , Wei Gang , Lu Liangliang
Published: January 2023

The development of underground space is fast because of the lack of space. To build shafts in underwater tunnels, the vertical tunneling method (VTM) was invented in 1974 in China, which can act as a freshwater intake or sewage outlet. During the operation of the VTM, the jacking force is one of the essential factors that draw attention. This paper conducts a numerical study of the jacking force and its influencing factors during the vertical tunneling process. First, based on the finite element software ABAQUS, a numerical model of the vertical tunneling process is established according to the VTM project in Beihai, China. Second, in accordance with the Latin hypercube sampling method and the multivariate significance analysis, the mechanical parameters are determined or back‐analyzed. Then, the calculated jacking force of the numerical model is compared with the measured jacking force. It turns out that the changing trend of the jacking force in the numerical model and the measured jacking force is relatively consistent. Finally, the influencing factors of the jacking force, such as elastic modulus and the angle of internal friction, are analyzed based on the numerical model. The results show that the elastic modulus and the angle of internal friction of soil are the main influencing factors of the jacking force. The secondary factors are Poisson’s ratio, static earth pressure coefficient, unit weight, and cohesion.