bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An identification method of bonding state in ETIS based on GPR
Authors: Wang C , Wang J , Liu M , Li X , Gong J , Yang X , Lan T
Published: November 2024

The external thermal insulation system (ETIS) often has safety quality problems caused without debonding, and the classical debonding detection methods can not achieve high precision and high efficiency safety detection at the same time. Ground penetrating radar (GPR) can be one of the most efficient tools to identify the bonding state. In this paper, a methodology for bonding state detection is presented. Firstly, a modeling and simulation method for ETIS is designed, which is closer to the real form of the adhesive shape. Secondly, a 3D frequency wave-number domain filter is used to remove the low-rank direct-coupled waves and the low-frequency components, then a matched filter is used to estimate the time delay arrival and identify the adhesive shape in ETIS. Finally, the effectiveness of the algorithm for the recognition of bonding state is verified by numerical results and experiments.
Application of Ground Penetrating Radar in Rapid and Non destructive Detection of Urban Tunnels
Authors: Zhao Beiqiang , He Zhihua , Liu Tao , Song Xiaoji , Zheng Hongxing
Published: November 2024

Due to the rapid advancement of modern transportation, tunnels have emerged as an important component of transportation infrastructure. A large number of pipelines and tunnels makes the urban underground environment extremely complex. Detecting underground tunnels and pipelines can provide guidance for urban construction. Ground penetrating radar (GPR) possesses attributes such as swift detection speed, no loss, convenient and flexible operation, thereby playing a crucial role in numerous domains. The aim of this research is to verify the feasibility of detecting tunnels with depths on the order of 10 meters, by evaluating tunnel dimensions and depth parameters through a combined approach of simulation and experimental measurements. In this investigation, gprMax was utilized to model and simulate the underground tunnel to establish the correlation between echo data and target position. Additionally, this research employed an 80MHz GPR system to detecting a undergound tunnel and acquiring data which facilitated successful determination of the depth of the underground tunnel based on empirical evidence
Adding the outer pipe to a thin borehole radar probe in a thick water-filled borehole in rock to reduce direct coupling
Authors: Ebihara S , Masui R , Koyama K , Tsujikawa Y , Nishida Y
Published: November 2024

We show the experimental evidence that the additional outer pipe attached to a borehole radar probe reduces the direct wave’s power in single-hole measurement and emphasizes the reflected wave from subsurface objects in hard rock. This pipe replaces the water layer with the air one when the difference between the diameter of the radar probe and that of the borehole is large, for example, by 4 cm. In the field experiment, the radar probe is scanned in the water-filled borehole in the rock in the two cases, with and without the additional outer pipe. The comparison between these two cases confirmed that the direct wave’s power difference increases as the frequency gets higher and reaches 20 dB at 300 MHz. The radar probe with the additional outer pipe detected the reflected wave from the objects in the time domain. This contrasted with the fact that the radar probe without the additional outer pipe observed only the strong direct waves rather than the reflected waves.
The GPR and ERT detection for road hazard in loess region
Authors: Yan Jiahe , Zeng Zhaofa , An Baizhou , Sun Boyang , Li Zhilian , Wang Haoyu , Zhao Jianwei
Published: November 2024

The road hazards have frequently happened in the loess region in Ningxia autonomous region. The reason for this phenomenon is that the loess under the roads has always changed because of its properties, such as collapsibility, and leads to the instability of the geological structure. Detection of the loess under the roads can obtain the information about the geological structure and identify potential road hazard regions, which has great significance. Therefore, in this paper, we conducted a field experiment about road hazard in loess region using ground penetrating radar (GPR) and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT). The field experiment demonstrated that each method can be used in the detection and identification of potential road hazard but limited in their different detection capabilities, but better results can be obtained by using both methods comprehensively.
Polarimetric Attributes of Martian Regolith at the Tianwen-1 Landing Site
Authors: Yang Jiarun , Feng Xuan , Khuut Tseeulam , Lu Qi , Zhou Haoqiu , Dong Zejun , Zhang Minghe , An Yafei
Published: November 2024

We designed a data processing procedure for polarization analysis of the Martian regolith and applied it to the RoPeR CH2 channel data of the Zhurong rover, obtaining the structure distribution and weathering degree distribution of the Martian regolith of about 1900 m (325 sols). Three typical subsurface structures are studied in detail, and the results show that the structures in the Martian regolith all have relatively rough surfaces. This indicates that the structures within the regolith have suffered a high degree of weathering.
Estimation of soil hydraulic properties based on full waveform inversion of ground-penetrating radar data with Grey Wolf optimization algorithm
Authors: Zhang M. H. , Bano M. , Feng X. , Khuut T. , Lu Q.
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we propose an inversion scheme to directly and non-invasively determine soil hydraulic properties. The scheme is based on hydrogeophysical inversion full waveform ground penetrating radar (GPR) data with Grey Wolf Optimizer algorithm. This inversion scheme includes a soil hydraulic model, a petrophysical relationship, a ground penetrating radar forward modelling and a Grey Wolf Optimizer algorithm. In order to evaluate its performance, a numerical experiment was carried out and the proposed scheme was applied to the experimental data. The results indicate that the proposed inversion scheme is promising for determining soil hydraulic properties with GPR.
Reverse time migration of GPR data based on GPU parallel Symplectic Euler Algorithm and Total Variation Regularization
Authors: Gao Xin , Lei Jianwei , Chen Zhiqing , Fang Hongyuan
Published: November 2024

Reverse time migration is important in GPR image processing, but its efficiency and accuracy need to be improved. In terms of efficiency, reverse time migration uses the Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) algorithm for parallel CPU computation, which is inefficient. In terms of accuracy, it usually uses cross-correlation conditions for imaging, which reduces the imaging accuracy. To solve the above problems, this paper proposes the solution: using symplectic algorithm parallel GPU acceleration technology to improve the migration efficiency and using TV regularization technology to improve imaging accuracy. Finally, the proposed algorithm is verified by the road cavity model and the underground pipeline model.
Subsurface characterization of Removable Urban Pavements (RUP) using Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
Authors: Andreoli G , Schmidt F , Ihamouten A , Cothenet A , Dezert T , Nguyen M L , Sedran T
Published: November 2024

In the pursuit of improving transport infrastructure as part of the overall sustainable development policy, new coatings and emerging structures are coming to the forefront. This is the case with Removable Urban Pavements (RUP). This new type of structure, thanks to lightweight equipment, is removable in parts and allows quick access to underground networks. To assess the design and potential degradation of RUP, the use of multi-technique tools for Non-Destructive Techniques (NDT) is implemented as part of the European HERON project. These methods are increasingly sought after by transport infrastructure managers, both for corrective and preventive/predictive maintenance. Among them, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is gaining popularity among pavement professionals for multi-object detection/characterization in the subsurface, as well as for assessing the geometry of structures. In this context, a RUP structure, installed on the fatigue carousel at Gustave Eiffel University (Nantes, France) and subjected to various mechanical and hydraulic solicitations, has been studied using GPR.
An adaptive event-based state estimation for coupled network with multiple fading measurement via partial nodes information
Authors: Lin Na , Chen Dongyan , Zhao Hairui
Published: November 2024

The state estimation (SE) problem is explored for coupled complex networks (CNs) subjected to general nonlinearity and coupled nonlinearity, as well as multiple fading measurement phenomena. The phenomenon of multiple fading measurement means that the measurement fading occurs in a random manner and each sensor has a separate fading probability in the information transmission. An adaptive event triggering mechanism (ETM) with a time-varying threshold is introduced for adjusting the frequency of information transmission. A two-stage partial-nodes-based (PNB) state estimator is designed using partial nodes’ information to estimate all true states. The PNB estimator gain matrix is parameterized by optimizing the trace of the upper bound matrix of the estimation error covariance (UBMEEC). The monotonicity of the trace of the UBMEEC with respect to the fading probability is clarified. Finally, a numerical example demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed two-stage PNBSE method.
A generalized minimax theorem for sup-concave functionals
Authors: Zhang Le , Sun Chuanfeng
Published: November 2024

In this paper, by introducing the sup-concave and consistent functionals, we establish a nonconvex minimax theorem which generalizes Fan Ky’s Minimax Theorem.
Optimal dispatching method for low-carbon park comprehensive energy system based on IFWA-SFLA algorithm
Authors: Ma Rui , Wan Peng , Wang Liang , Shi Yuanyuan , Liu Jia , Liu Chaochao , Xiao Zhenghai
Published: November 2024

Due to the instability of the output and load of the integrated energy system, it is difficult to effectively control the carbon emissions during the load phase. Therefore, this paper proposes a study on the optimal dispatching method of the low-carbon park integrated energy system based on the IFWA-SFLA algorithm. Combining load demand and renewable energy output fluctuations and analyzing the conversion and transfer relationships between different energy forms in the system, an objective function based on minimizing carbon emissions was constructed and will meet the actual load demand of the park. The energy conversion equipment capacity limit is used as a constraint; in the specific scheduling stage, the IFWA-SFLA algorithm is introduced, using carbon emissions as a fitness function to solve the optimal scheduling plan in the global scope. In the test results, the design method corresponds to the lowest carbon emissions. Compared with the control group, the total carbon emissions during the test period were reduced by 1002.88kg and 1058.80kg, respectively, and the average carbon emissions during the test period were reduced by 143.27kg and 151.26kg, respectively.
Enhanced chitosan fibres for skin regeneration: solution blow spinning and incorporation with platelet lysate and tannic acid
Authors: Haugen Håvard J , Coelho David , Tien Nguyen D , Geng Tianxiang , Blaker Jonny J
Published: November 2024

In this study, we developed and characterised enhanced chitosan/polyethylene oxide (PEO) nanofibre scaffolds using solution blow spinning (SBS) for potential application in skin tissue engineering. SBS enabled the efficient and scalable production of fibre matrices with precise morphology control, facilitating the integration of PEO to improve spinnability, 100X the speed of electron spinning. Following fabrication, fibres were subjected to potassium carbonate neutralisation to reduce PEO content, improving chitosan stability in aqueous environments. Characterisation by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) confirmed structural integrity post-neutralisation and the successful incorporation with bioactive additives. Platelet lysate (PL) was incorporated to introduce growth factors, and tannic acid (TA) was added for antibacterial properties and enhanced mechanical stability through potential crosslinking. Mechanical testing showed that the optimised PL- and TA-enriched scaffolds exhibited the highest mechanical performance, with Young’s modulus of 7.0 ± 0.6 MPa, an ultimate tensile strength of 26.4 ± 2.3 MPa, elongation at break of 16.5 ± 1.7%, and toughness of 3.0 ± 0.3 MJ m−3 which is within the range of human skin. At the same time, SEM and ATR-FTIR analyses confirmed the stability and distribution of these functional agents within the fibre network. Biocompatibility tests with normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) indicated low cytotoxicity, appropriate cell adhesion and proliferation over 14 days in culture, suggesting these scaffolds as promising candidates for wound healing and skin regeneration applications.
Mode-locked thulium-holmium doped fiber laser using Bi2Se3 saturable absorber deposited onto arc-shaped and side-polished fibers via airbrush spraying technique
Authors: Ahmad H , Rusni N A M , Samion M Z , Yusoff N , Zaini M K A , Thambiratnam K , Ismail M F
Published: November 2024

In this paper, the mode-locking performance using bismuth selenide (Bi2Se3) as a saturable absorber in a thulium-holmium-doped fiber laser (THDFL) was demonstrated for the first time. The saturable absorber (SA) was coated using an airbrush spraying technique onto two different hosts, arc-shaped and side-polished fibers. The airbrush was used to provide an even and uniform coating onto these two hosts. The generated mode-locked pulses of the arc-shaped fiber have a center wavelength of 1913.5 nm and a 3-dB bandwidth of 3.11 nm. The optical output has a repetition frequency of 13.9 MHz and an optical pulse width of 1.33 ps. In the case of the side-polished fiber, it has a center wavelength of 1918.55 nm and a 3-dB bandwidth of 2.60 nm. The output pulse has a repetition frequency of 12.16 MHz and an optical pulse width of 1.43 ps. This demonstration indicates that the arc-shaped fiber host has a better performance in terms of shorter pulse width, which is essential for a 2 μm laser in tissue ablation procedures for medical applications.
Fast motion-compensated reconstruction for 4D-CBCT using deep learning-based groupwise registration
Authors: Zhang Zhehao , Hao Yao , Jin Xiyao , Yang Deshan , Kamilov Ulugbek S , Hugo Geoffrey D
Published: November 2024

Objective. Previous work has that deep learning (DL)-enhanced 4D cone beam computed tomography (4D-CBCT) images improve motion modeling and subsequent motion-compensated (MoCo) reconstruction for 4D-CBCT. However, building the motion model at treatment time via conventional deformable image registration (DIR) methods is not temporally feasible. This work aims to improve the efficiency of 4D-CBCT MoCo reconstruction using DL-based registration for the rapid generation of a motion model prior to treatment. Approach. An artifact-reduction DL model was first used to improve the initial 4D-CBCT reconstruction by reducing streaking artifacts. Based on the artifact-reduced phase images, a groupwise DIR employing DL was used to estimate the inter-phase motion model. Two DL DIR models using different learning strategies were employed: (1) a patient-specific one-shot DIR model which was trained from scratch only using the images to be registered, and (2) a population DIR model which was pre-trained using collected 4D-CT images from 35 patients. The registration accuracy of two DL DIR models was assessed and compared to a conventional groupwise DIR approach implemented in the Elastix toolbox using the publicly available DIR-Lab dataset, a Monte Carlo simulation dataset from the SPARE challenge, and two clinical cases. Main results. The patient-specific DIR model and the population DIR model demonstrated registration accuracy comparable to the conventional state-of-the-art methods on the DIR-Lab dataset. No significant difference in image quality was observed between the final MoCo reconstructions using the patient-specific model and population model for motion modeling, compared to using the conventional approach. The average runtime (hh:mm:ss) of the entire MoCo reconstruction on SPARE dataset was reduced from 01:37:26 using conventional DIR method to 00:10:59 using patient-specific model and 00:01:05 using the pre-trained population model. Significance. DL-based registration methods can improve the efficiency in generating motion models for 4D-CBCT without compromising the performance of final MoCo reconstruction.
Fully discretized Sobolev gradient flow for the Gross-Pitaevskii eigenvalue problem
Authors: Chen Ziang , Lu Jianfeng , Lu Yulong , Zhang Xiangxiong
Published: November 2024

This paper studies the numerical approximation of the ground state of the Gross-Pitaevskii (GP) eigenvalue problem with a fully discretized Sobolev gradient flow induced by the

H
1

H^1

norm. For the spatial discretization, we consider the finite element method with quadrature using

P
k

P^k

basis on a simplicial mesh and

Q
k

Q^k

basis on a rectangular mesh. We prove the global convergence to a critical point of the discrete GP energy, and establish a local exponential convergence to the ground state under the assumption that the linearized discrete Schrödinger operator has a positive spectral gap. We also show that for the

P
1

P^1

finite element discretization with quadrature on an unstructured shape regular simplicial mesh, the eigengap satisfies a mesh-independent lower bound, which implies a mesh-independent local convergence rate for the proposed discrete gradient flow. Numerical experiments with discretization by high-order

Q
k

Q^k

spectral element methods in two and three dimensions are provided to validate the efficiency of the proposed method.
Becoming Divine
Authors: Insole Christopher J
Published: November 2024

The chapter sets out the parallel work done by the concept of the divine in the work of Kant, and in the work of a self-declared Kantian (of sorts), the psychologist Carl Gustav Jung. The discussion also draws on David Burrell and Jonathan Lear. The account begins by distinguishing between two sorts of ‘Kantian’ thought: the metaphysical and the grammatical. ‘Autonomy’, for the metaphysical Kant, expresses a type of religious hope: it involves a self-transcending participation in reason as such, which is identical, fundamentally, in a way that never appears to us, to freedom, and to happiness. For the ‘grammatical’ Kant, ‘autonomy’ involves perceiving certain analytical relationships between the concepts of reason, freedom, individuality and the universal and communal. By reflecting on what the relationship might be between these, the chapter considers the mutually illuminating role of the concept of God in the work of Kant and Jung.
Epilogue
Authors: Insole Christopher J
Published: November 2024

I accept that atheists and a certain type of traditional theologian might both, for different reasons, dismiss the significance of the references to the divine discussed across the chapters of the book Negative Natural Theology. Nonetheless, I offer an interpretation of these uses of the category of the divine, which is neither reductive nor dismissive. Accordingly, the epilogue offers a thought experiment: what might we expect if we combine a huge God—simple and triune, omnipotent, omniscient, all loving, and the creator of everything ex nihilo—with our finite and limited capacities to know and apprehend such a God? We might expect to receive the vastness of such a living God in fragments, shards, half-lights, both unveiling, and distorting. Alluding to William James, the suggestion is made that if God is all loving, we might hope that God can make God known to us in ways that are appropriate to our capacities, gifts, and limitations. That we hit a limit to what reason and investigation can do in this area is not an accident. We have two types of reason for expecting to fail: one more a priori and theological, the other more a posteriori and inductive. I accept that any reader is free to accept or reject this construal of the material. Such freedom and humility of belief have been core strands running through the book.
Discoveries by the genome profiling, symbolic powers of non-next generation sequencing methods
Authors: Nishigaki Koichi
Published: November 2024

Next-generation sequencing and other sequencing approaches have made significant progress in DNA analysis. However, there are indispensable advantages in the nonsequencing methods. They have their justifications such as being speedy, cost-effective, multi-applicable, and straightforward. Among the nonsequencing methods, the genome profiling method is worthy of reviewing because of its high potential. This article first reviews its basic properties, highlights the key concept of species identification dots (spiddos), and then summarizes its various applications.
A case of small intestinal fixation failure
Authors: Oyanagi Kanako , Horii Yosuke , Ishikawa Hiroyuki , Takizawa Kazuyasu
Published: November 2024

A 77-year-old woman underwent CT to evaluate haematemesis. The images showed that the third part of the duodenum flexed steeply on the right side of the aorta and ran caudally, without crossing anterior to the aorta. The duodenal-jejunal junction and jejunum were located on the patient’s right side. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a laceration at the gastric cardia, and a diagnosis of Mallory–Weiss syndrome was made. Repeat CT 7 days later revealed that the abnormal positioning of the intestinal tract had resolved spontaneously. Two months later, the patient experienced another episode of haematemesis, and CT revealed repeat deviation of the duodenal-jejunal junction and jejunum to her right side. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed another laceration at the gastric cardia, as in the previous study. On the basis of the initial CT findings showing the duodenal-jejunal junction in the right hemi-abdomen, intestinal malrotation was suspected. However, because the jejunum deviated repeatedly to the right side but resolved spontaneously, we diagnosed dysplasia of the ligament of Treitz. Laparotomy revealed a formed ligament of Treitz; however, fixation in the upper jejunum was incomplete. Additionally, CT revealed that the anterior pararenal space was loosely fixed and mobile. These factors may have caused the right-sided deviation of the small intestine. In this case, the third part of the duodenum likely flexed on the right side of the aorta, causing an obstruction that resulted in repeat vomiting episodes and Mallory–Weiss syndrome.
Enhanced Parkin-mediated mitophagy mitigates adverse left ventricular remodelling after myocardial infarction: role of PR-364
Authors: Ai Lizhuo , de Freitas Germano Juliana , Huang Chengqun , Aniag Marianne , Sawaged Savannah , Sin Jon , Thakur Reetu , Rai Deepika , Rainville Christopher , Sterner David E , Song Yang , Piplani Honit , Kumar Suresh , Butt Tauseef R , Mentzer Robert M , Stotland Aleksandr , Gottlieb Roberta A , Van Eyk Jennifer E
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims

Almost 30% of survivors of myocardial infarction (MI) develop heart failure (HF), in part due to damage caused by the accumulation of dysfunctional mitochondria. Organelle quality control through Parkin-mediated mitochondrial autophagy (mitophagy) is known to play a role in mediating protection against HF damage post-ischaemic injury and remodelling of the subsequent deteriorated myocardium.

Methods

This study has shown that a single i.p. dose (2 h post-MI) of the selective small molecule Parkin activator PR-364 reduced mortality, preserved cardiac ejection fraction, and mitigated the progression of HF. To reveal the mechanism of PR-364, a multi-omic strategy was deployed in combination with classical functional assays using in vivo MI and in vitro cardiomyocyte models.

Results

In vitro cell data indicated that Parkin activation by PR-364 increased mitophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis, enhanced adenosine triphosphate production via improved citric acid cycle, altered accumulation of calcium localization to the mitochondria, and initiated translational reprogramming with increased expression of mitochondrial translational proteins. In mice, PR-364 administered post-MI resulted in widespread proteome changes, indicating an up-regulation of mitochondrial metabolism and mitochondrial translation in the surviving myocardium.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of targeting Parkin-mediated mitophagy using PR-364 to protect surviving cardiac tissue post-MI from progression to HF.
Glycoconjugate vaccines: platforms and adjuvants for directed immunity
Authors: Lensch Valerie , Johnson Jeremiah A , Kiessling Laura L
Published: November 2024

Central to immune recognition is the glycocalyx, a glycan-rich coat on all cells that plays a crucial role in interactions that enable pathogen detection and activation of immune defenses. Pathogens and cancerous cells often display distinct glycans on their surfaces, making these saccharide antigens prime targets for vaccine development. However, carbohydrates alone generally serve as poor immunogens due to their often weak binding affinities, inability to effectively recruit T cell help, and reliance on adjuvants to iboost immune activation. The introduction of glycoconjugate vaccines, initially involving the covalent coupling of carbohydrate antigens to carrier proteins, marked a pivotal advancement by facilitating neutralizing antibody production against carbohydrate targets. Despite successes in generating glycoconjugate vaccines against certain bacterial diseases, challenges persist in creating effective vaccines against numerous intracellular pathogens and non-communicable diseases such as cancer. In this review, we highlight new developments in conjugate vaccine platforms aim to overcome these limitations by optimizing the display of glycan and T cell epitopes as well as incorporating defined carbohydrate adjuvants to direct tailored immune responses. These advancements promise to improve the effectiveness of carbohydrate-based vaccines and broaden their coverage against a wide range of diseases.
Case-Control Study of Cervicovaginal β/γ–Human Papillomavirus Infection in Women With Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Its Relation to Incident Cervical Precancer
Authors: Strickler Howard D , Usyk Mykhaylo , Eltoum Isam-Eldin , Bachman Natalie , Hessol Nancy A , Flowers Lisa , Rahangdale Lisa , Atrio Jessica M , Ramirez Catalina , Minkoff Howard , Adimora Adaora A , Ofotokun Igho , Keller Marla J , Fischl Margaret , Shrestha Sadeep , Wright Rodney , D’Souza Gypsyamber , Sanchez-Keeland Lorraine , Xie Xianhong , Xue Xiaonan , Anastos Kathryn , Massad L Stewart , Palefsky Joel M , Burk Robert D
Published: November 2024

We studied cervicovaginal β/γ–human papillomavirus (HPV) and their relationship to cervical precancer in women with human immunodeficiency virus; having previously reported strong positive associations of β/γ-HPV with incident head and neck cancer in the general population. Case patients (n = 124) had cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 3 or 2. Controls (n = 247) were individually matched 2:1 to case patients. Unexpectedly, multivariate analyses found strong inverse associations between β/γ-HPV and CIN-2/3 (odds ratio, 0.19 [95% confidence interval, .04–.86]; P = .03; Ptrend < .01]). This is, to our knowledge, the first study of β/γ-HPV and cervical precancer. If confirmed, a strong inverse (protective) association would be of potential clinical and biologic relevance.
Asymptomatic and Mildly Symptomatic Influenza Virus Infections by Season: Case-Ascertained Household Transmission Studies, United States, 2017–2023
Authors: Biddle Jessica E , Nguyen Huong Q , Talbot H Keipp , Rolfes Melissa A , Biggerstaff Matthew , Johnson Sheroi , Reed Carrie , Belongia Edward A , Grijalva Carlos G , Mellis Alexandra M
Published: November 2024

Asymptomatic influenza virus infection occurs but may vary by factors such as age, vaccination status, or season. We examined the frequency of influenza virus infection and symptoms using data from 2 case-ascertained household transmission studies (2017–2023) with prospective, systematic collection of respiratory specimens and symptoms. From the 426 influenza virus infected household contacts that met our inclusion criteria, 8% were asymptomatic, 6% had nonrespiratory symptoms, 23% had acute respiratory symptoms, and 62% had influenza-like illness symptoms. Understanding the prevalence of asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic influenza cases is important for implementing effective influenza prevention strategies and enhancing symptom-based surveillance systems.
Effective Real-time Transmission Estimations Incorporating Population Viral Load Distributions Amid SARS-CoV-2 Variants and Preexisting Immunity
Authors: Meng Yu , Lin Yun , Xiong Weijia , Lau Eric H Y , Ho Faith , Wong Jessica Y , Wu Peng , Tsang Tim K , Cowling Benjamin J , Yang Bingyi
Published: November 2024

Background

Population-level cycle threshold (Ct) distribution allows for Rt estimation for SARS-CoV-2 ancestral strain, however, its generalizability under different circulating variants and preexisting immunity remains unclear.

Methods

We obtained the first Ct record of local COVID-19 cases from July 2020 to January 2023 in Hong Kong. The log-linear regression model, fitting on daily Ct mean and skewness to Rt estimated by case count, was trained with data from ancestral-dominated wave (minimal population immunity), and we predicted the Rt for Omicron waves (>70% vaccine coverage). Cross-validation was performed by training on other waves. Stratification analysis was conducted to retrospectively evaluate the impact of the changing severity profiles.

Results

Model trained with the ancestral-dominated wave accurately estimated whether Rt was >1, with areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.98 (95% CI, 0.96–1.00), 0.62 (95% CI, 0.53–0.70), and 0.80 (95% CI, 0.73–0.88) for Omicron-dominated waves, respectively. Models trained on other waves also had discriminative performance. Stratification analysis suggested the potential impact of case severity on model estimation, which coincided with sampling delay.

Conclusions

Incorporating population viral shedding can provide timely and accurate transmission estimation with evolving variants and population immunity, though model application should consider sampling delay.
Reconstruction of penile skin defect using negative pressure therapy, spiraling full-thickness skin grafts, and nanofat grafting: a case report
Authors: Buitrago Diana Marcela Cadena , Díaz Manuel Felipe Aljure , López Ana María Camargo , Ardila Juan Sebastián Afanador , Acosta Jorge Luis Corcho
Published: November 2024

The penis is a structure that requires both anatomical and functional reconstruction. Being a three-dimensional structure that changes in volume, it presents a reconstructive challenge for the plastic surgeon. Currently, various alternatives are available for covering these complex defects, such as grafts, flaps, and dermal matrices. The objective of this study is to present a case report describing a complex post-traumatic penile defect in which three combined strategies were implemented for the first time (spiral full-thickness grafts, nanolipoinjection, and negative pressure therapy). These strategies have been described in the literature for defect coverage, achieving satisfactory anatomical and functional results.
Giant cardiac schwannoma around the left atrium: a case report
Authors: Ushioda Ryohei , Sakboon Boonsap , Yoongtong Dit , Cheewinmethasiri Jaroen , Kamiya Hiroyuki , Arayawudhikul Nuttapon
Published: November 2024

A 57-year-old male presented with dyspnea and an enlarged cardiac silhouette on a chest X-ray. Further evaluation with contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed a giant heterogeneous mediastinal mass, ~8.9 × 7.3 × 12.2 cm, with peripheral calcifications. Surgical resection was performed via a left thoracotomy approach using the left fifth intercostal space. Cardiopulmonary bypass was established through the femoral vessels for safer and more controlled resection. The tumor, contiguous with the left atrium, was successfully excised using two Endo GIA staplers. Pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of schwannoma. This case demonstrates that the left thoracotomy approach with cardiopulmonary bypass and the use of Endo GIA staplers is a feasible and effective option for resecting large, well-defined cardiac schwannomas.
Injuries Associated With Mandated Wear of Body Armor in Iraq
Authors: Kuckelman John , Mitchell Christopher , Garcia Fernando , Breazeale Travis , Wallace Roxanne , Radowsky Jason
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Protective ballistic body armor (BA) may be needed during certain threat postures while deployed. This requirement often adds between 35 and 45lbs of extra weight carried by the service member (SM) for multiple hours during the day. The physical toll of that extra weight and the effect it may have on deployed medical resources has not been clearly characterized in the literature. We sought to evaluate the association of a protective BA wear requirement with musculoskeletal (MSK) complaints and to better characterize how these effects are manifested within the deployed military health care system.

Material and Methods

All encounters at a Role III Field Hospital were evaluated and queried for MSK injury. Data collected included the SM type, age, gender, MSK anatomy of concern, type of evaluating provider, disposition, and medications rendered. Injuries and outcomes were then compared between two groups; SMs who were seen for MSK complaints while BA was required (October 2023 to March 2024) and those during a period when BA was not required (No-BA = October 2022 to March 2023).

Results

A total of 2,805 encounters were evaluated. Non-SM visits were excluded (455) leaving 2,350 left for evaluation. In all, 969 (41.2%) were identified as encounters for MSK injury. No-BA had significantly fewer visits of MSK injury at 429 (38%) compared to the BA group at 540 (44%, P = .001). Active duty (AD) and National Guard (NG) SMs made up a larger portion of MSK visits in the BA group at 54% and 41%, respectively, compared to 35% Reserve (AR) and 36% NG in the No-BA group (P < .001). Service member were 12 times more likely to require a physical therapy treatment in the BA group (60%) vs. the No-BA (5%, P < .001). Prescriptions of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication were more common in the BA group at 11% of all visits compared to 4% in the No-BA group (P < .001). This was also true for muscle relaxers at 1% vs. 3% (P = .008). Shoulder and back injuries represented the largest proportion of MSK areas of concern at 22% and 24%, respectively, with only neck injuries being higher in the BA group at 8.5% vs. 5% (P = .03).

Conclusions

Required wear of BA was associated with an increase in MSK visits across all types of US SMs. Shoulder and back injuries were the most common with a significant increase in visits to physical therapy in the BA group. Anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing medications were prescribed more frequently in the BA group. A dedicated prospective study would help better elucidate the causality of these associations. Risk-benefit analysis of threat posture, with the knowledge of these health care associations, deserves serious consideration.
X–ray absorption lines in FUV–detected quasars: I. Sample and analysis of the XMM–Newton and Chandra data
Authors: Spence David , Bonamente Massimiliano , Ahoranta Jussi , Wijers Nastasha , Tuominen Toni , de Plaa Jelle
Published: November 2024

This paper presents initial results of a systematic search for resonance X–ray absorption lines from H–like O VIII and He–like O VII caused by the intervening warm–hot intergalactic medium (WHIM). The search is based on far ultra–violet redshift priors from O VI and H I broad Lyman-α lines that were previously detected by HST and FUSE in a sample of 51 sources with either XMM-Newton or Chandra data, for a total X–ray redshift path of Δz = 10.9. Of the 1,224 absorption–line systems with FUV priors that were analyzed, 33 systems feature an absorption–line feature detected with ≥99 % confidence at the same redshift of the FUV prior, some coincident with previously reported absorption line detections. The ultimate goal of this search is to test the hypothesis that X–ray absorbing WHIM gas is the repository of the missing baryons in the local universe. Further results and the cosmological implications of this analysis are presented in a companion paper.
Constraints on compact objects from the Dark Energy Survey 5-yr supernova sample
Authors: Shah P , Davis T M , Vincenzi M , Armstrong P , Brout D , Camilleri R , Galbany L , García-Bellido J , Gill M S S , Lahav O , Lee J , Lidman C , Möller A , Sako M , Sánchez B O , Sullivan M , Whiteway L , Wiseman P , Allam S , Aguena M , Bocquet S , Brooks D , Burke D L , Rosell A Carnero , da Costa L N , Pereira M E S , Desai S , Dodelson S , Doel P , Ferrero I , Flaugher B , Frieman J , Gaztanaga E , Gruen D , Gruendl R A , Gutierrez G , Herner K , Hinton S R , Hollowood D L , Honscheid K , James D J , Kuehn K , Lee S , Marshall J L , Mena-Fernández J , Miquel R , Myles J , Palmese A , Pieres A , Malagón A A Plazas , Roodman A , Samuroff S , Sanchez E , Sevilla-Noarbe I , Smith M , Suchyta E , Swanson M E C , Tarle G , To C , Vikram V , Weaverdyck N
Published: November 2024

Gravitational lensing magnification of Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) allows information to be obtained about the distribution of matter on small scales. In this paper, we derive limits on the fraction $\alpha$ of the total matter density in compact objects (which comprise stars, stellar remnants, small stellar groupings, and primordial black holes) of mass M > 0.03 ${\rm M}_{\odot }$ over cosmological distances. Using 1532 SNe Ia from the Dark Energy Survey Year 5 sample (DES-SN5YR) combined with a Bayesian prior for the absolute magnitude M, we obtain α < 0.12 at the 95 per cent confidence level after marginalization over cosmological parameters, lensing due to large-scale structure, and intrinsic non-Gaussianity. Similar results are obtained using priors from the cosmic microwave background, baryon acoustic oscillations, and galaxy weak lensing, indicating our results do not depend on the background cosmology. We argue our constraints are likely to be conservative (in the sense of the values we quote being higher than the truth), but discuss scenarios in which they could be weakened by systematics of the order of $\Delta \alpha \sim 0.04$.
Observations of the galaxy cluster CL 0217 + 70 and its surrounding region at 1.4 GHz with the Sardinia Radio Telescope
Authors: Marchegiani P , Vacca V , Govoni F , Murgia M , Loi F , Feretti L
Published: November 2024

We present the results of observations performed with the Sardinia Radio Telescope (SRT) at 1.3–1.8 GHz of the galaxy cluster CL 0217 + 70 and a $3^\circ \times 3^\circ$ region around it. We combine the SRT data with archival Very Large Array (VLA) data to obtain images having the VLA angular resolution, but sensitive up to largest scales. The SRT + VLA combination allows us to derive a cluster radio halo flux density higher by $\sim 14{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ compared to the VLA-only data, although consistent within $1\sigma$. We derive a spectral index map between 140 MHz and 1.4 GHz, finding an extended region with spectral index $\alpha \sim 0.6$ on the external part of the south-eastern candidate relic, questioning the real nature of this relic. Moreover, we detect an extended emission outside the cluster in the south-eastern area, having an angular extension of $\sim 50$ arcmin on the longer side, which would correspond to $\sim 10$ Mpc at the cluster distance; the emissivity that this region would have if located at the cluster distance is in line with the one estimated in candidate filaments of the cosmic web; however, the peculiar orientation of this region, not pointed towards the cluster, and the low Galactic latitude of this cluster suggest that its origin can be due to a foreground emission originating in our Galaxy.
AstroSat timing and spectral analysis of the accretion-powered millisecond X-ray pulsar IGR J17591–2342
Authors: Singh Akshay , Sanna Andrea , Bhattacharyya Sudip , Chakraborty Sudip , Jangle Sarita , Katoch Tilak , Antia H M , Bijewar Nitinkumar
Published: November 2024

IGR J17591–2342, a transient accretion-powered millisecond X-ray pulsar, was discovered during its 2018 outburst. Here, we present a timing and spectral analysis of the source using AstroSat data of the same outburst. From the timing analysis, we obtain updated values of binary orbital parameters, which reveal an average pulsar spin frequency of 527.425 6984(8) Hz. The pulse profiles can be fit well with four harmonically related sinusoidal components with fractional amplitudes of fundamental and second, third, and fourth harmonics as ~13 per cent, ~6 per cent, ~0.9 per cent, and ~0.2 per cent, respectively. The energy-dependent study of pulse profiles in the range of 3–20 keV shows that the fractional amplitude of both the fundamental and first overtone is consistent with being constant across the considered energy band. Besides, a decaying trend has been observed for both the fundamental and first overtone in the phase-delay versus energy relation, resulting in soft X-ray (2.8–3.3 keV) phase lags of $\sim$0.05 and $\sim$0.13 with respect to $\le 15$ keV photons, for the fundamental and first overtone, respectively. The combined spectra from the Large Area X-ray Proportional Counters and the Soft X-ray Telescope aboard AstroSat in the 1–18 keV range can be fit well with an absorbed model consisting of a Comptonization, a blackbody and a Gaussian emission-line component yielding as best-fitting parameters a blackbody seed photon temperature $kT_{\rm bb}$$\sim 0.95 \pm 0.03$ keV, and an electron temperature $kT_{\rm e}$$\sim 1.54 \pm 0.03$ keV. The spectral aspects suggest the scattering of photons from the accretion disc or the neutron star’s surface.
Abo1 ATPase facilitates the dissociation of FACT from chromatin
Authors: Jang Juwon , Kang Yujin , Zofall Martin , Woo Sangmin , An Soyeong , Cho Carol , Grewal Shiv , Lee Ja Yil , Song Ji-Joon
Published: November 2024

The histone chaperone FAcilitates Chromatin Transcription (FACT) is a heterodimeric complex consisting of Spt16 and Pob3, crucial for preserving nucleosome integrity during transcription and DNA replication. Loss of FACT leads to cryptic transcription and heterochromatin defects. FACT was shown to interact with Abo1, an AAA + family histone chaperone involved in nucleosome dynamics. Depletion of Abo1 causes FACT to stall at transcription start sites and mimics FACT mutants, indicating a functional association between Abo1 and FACT. However, the precise role of Abo1 in FACT function remains poorly understood. Here, we reveal that Abo1 directly interacts with FACT and facilitates the dissociation of FACT from nucleosome. Specifically, the N-terminal region of Abo1 utilizes its FACT-interacting helix to bind to the N-terminal domain of Spt16. In addition, using single-molecule fluorescence imaging, we discovered that Abo1 facilitates the ATP-dependent dissociation of FACT from nucleosomes. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the interaction between Abo1 and FACT is essential for maintaining heterochromatin in fission yeast. In summary, our findings suggest that Abo1 regulates FACT turnover in an ATP-dependent manner, proposing a model of histone chaperone recycling driven by inter-chaperone interactions.
Heating up the roof of the world: tracing the impacts of in-situ warming on carbon cycle in alpine grasslands on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Bai Yuxuan , Peng Yunfeng , Zhang Dianye , Yang Guibiao , Chen Leiyi , Kang Luyao , Zhou Wei , Wei Bin , Xie Yuhong , Yang Yuanhe
Published: November 2024

Climate warming may induce substantial changes in the ecosystem carbon cycle, particularly for those climate-sensitive regions, such as alpine grasslands on the Tibetan Plateau. By synthesizing findings from in-situ warming experiments, this review elucidates the mechanisms underlying the impacts of experimental warming on carbon cycle dynamics within these ecosystems. Generally, alterations in vegetation structure and prolonged growing season favor strategies for enhanced ecosystem carbon sequestration under warming conditions. Whilst warming modifies soil microbial communities and their carbon-related functions, its effects on soil carbon release fall behind the increased vegetation carbon uptake. Despite the fact that no significant accumulation of soil carbon stock has been detected upon warming, notable changes in its fractions indicate potential shifts in carbon stability. Future studies should prioritize deep soil carbon dynamics, the interactions of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycles under warming scenarios, and the underlying biological mechanisms behind these responses. Furthermore, the integration of long-term warming experiments with Earth system models is essential for reducing the uncertainties of model predictions regarding future carbon-climate feedback in these climate-sensitive ecosystems.
A tactfully designed photothermal agent collaborating with ascorbic acid for boosting maxillofacial wound healing
Authors: Qian Yuxin , Gao Yiting , Wang Dong , Zhang Shixuan , Luo Qiuxia , Shan Guogang , Lu Mengmeng , Yan Dingyuan , Tang Ben Zhong , Zhang Ming
Published: November 2024

Maxillofacial injuries that may cause severe functional and aesthetic damage require effective and immediate management due to continuous exposure to diverse microbial populations. Moreover, drug resistance, biofilm formation, and oxidative stress significantly impede timely bacterial removal and immune function, making the exploration of advanced materials for maxillofacial wound healing an appealing yet highly challenging task. Herein, a near-infrared photothermal sterilization agent was designed, encapsulated with liposomes and coated with ascorbic acid known for its antioxidant and immune-regulatory functions. The resulting nanoparticles, 4TPE-C6T-TD@AA, effectively neutralize reactive oxygen species generated by lipopolysaccharides, facilitate the conversion of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages to anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages, and eliminate >90% of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli by disrupting bacterial physiological functions upon exposure to 808 nm laser irradiation. In vivo experiments demonstrate that 4TPE-C6T-TD@AA rapidly eliminates bacteria from infected wounds in the maxillofacial region of rats, and significantly promotes healing in S. aureus-infected wounds by enhancing collagen formation and modulating the inflammatory microenvironment. In conclusion, this study presents a promising therapeutic strategy for effectively combating bacterial infections and excessive inflammation in treating maxillofacial injuries.