bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coupling effect of partial composite texture and thermal effect on the performance of hydrostatic bearing
Authors: Chen Dongju , Cui Yu , Sun Kun , Fan Jinwei , Cheng Kai
Published: February 2024

This work is focused on performance computation of high speed rotor bearing system with partial composite texture. Since its viscosity at varying speeds affects working performance in different partial composite texture, therefore at design and development stage, it is necessary to know the composite texture and thermal effect acting on rotor‐bearing system that causes variation of performance. The effects of partial composite texture size and position on the performance of the bearing are studied. After the optimal structural parameters are determined, the effects of the partial composite texture and fluid thermos structure coupling on the bearing capacity, stiffness, and friction coefficient of the oil film are analysed. The results show that after considering the influence of thermal effect, the performance enhancement of composite texture bearing is better than that of smooth bearing. Considering the temperature effect, the bearing capacity of the composite textured bearing is increased by 51.4% compared with that of the smooth bearing, and the friction coefficient is reduced to 22.4%, which is better than the value without considering the temperature effect, the accuracy of the results is verified by experiments. This study provides a theoretical basis for the design of hydrostatic bearing and improving its performance.
Some remarks on load modeling in nonlinear structural analysis–Statics with large deformations–Consistent treatment of follower load effects and load control
Authors: Schweizerhof Karl , Konyukhov Alexander
Published: February 2024

Load modeling in nonlinear statics, particularly incorporating large deformations differs significantly from the treatment in linear analysis. As in structural dynamics masses in a gravity field generate the loading, their location, and their modifications within the deformation process must be considered in a nonlinear simulation. A specific view besides loading by masses is on gas and fluid interaction with structures. In addition, load control using specifically designed algorithms is evaluated with respect to realistic applications. Within the load modeling an unavoidable, however side aspect, is the general discussion about the so‐called follower forces and non‐conservative loading. As an example of real‐world applications, the specifics of inflated rubber dams are presented.
The consequences of high‐fatality school shootings for surviving students
Authors: Levine Phillip B. , McKnight Robin
Published: February 2024

This paper examines the impact of high‐fatality school shootings on the subsequent outcomes of the survivors of those events. We focus specifically on the shootings at Columbine High School (Littleton, CO), Sandy Hook Elementary (Newtown, CT), and Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School (Parkland, FL). We assess the subsequent educational record, including attendance and test scores, and the long‐term health consequences of surviving students. In all analyses, we treat the timing and location of these events as random, enabling us to identify causal effects. Our results indicate that these high‐fatality school shootings led to substantial reductions in attendance and test scores. These educational effects appear to be larger than the effects of shootings with fewer fatalities estimated by others. Children who survived the Columbine shooting were more likely to die by age 30, particularly among boys. They experienced higher levels of suicide and accidental poisonings (overdoses).
TP53 disruptive mutation predicts platinum‐based chemotherapy and PD‐1/PD‐L1 blockade response in urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Jin Kaifeng , Xu Jingtong , Su Xiaohe , Xu Ziyue , Li Bingyu , Liu Ge , Liu Hailong , Wang Yiwei , Zhu Yu , Xu Le , Zhang Weijuan , Liu Zhaopei , Wang Zewei , Chang Yuan , Xu Jiejie
Published: February 2024

TP53 mutation is one of the most common genetic alterations in urothelial carcinoma (UrCa), and heterogeneity of TP53 mutants leads to heterogeneous clinical outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the clinical relevance of specific TP53 mutations in UrCa. In this study, a total of eight cohorts were enrolled, along with matched clinical annotation. TP53 mutations were classified as disruptive and nondisruptive according to the degree of disturbance of p53 protein function and structure. We evaluated the clinical significance of TP53 mutations in our local datasets and publicly available datasets. The co‐occurring events of TP53 mutations in UrCa, along with their therapeutic indications, functional effects, and the tumor immune microenvironment, were also investigated. TP53 mutations were identified in 49.7% of the UrCa patients. Within this group, 25.1% of patients carried TP53Disruptive mutations, a genetic alteration correlated with a significantly poorer overall survival (OS) when compared to individuals with TP53Nondisruptive mutations and those with wild‐type TP53. Significantly, patients with TP53Disruptive mutations exhibit an increased probability of responding favorably to PD‐1/PD‐L1 blockade and chemoimmunotherapy. Meanwhile, there was no noteworthy distinction in OS among patients with varying TP53 mutation status who underwent chemotherapy. Samples with TP53Disruptive mutations showed an enriched APOBEC‐ and POLE‐related mutational signature, as well as an elevated tumor mutation burden. The sensitivity to immunotherapy in tumors carrying TP53Disruptive mutation may be attributed to the inflamed tumor microenvironment characterized by increased CD8+T cell infiltration and interferon‐gamma signaling activation. In conclusion, UrCa patients with TP53Disruptive mutations have shown reduced survival rates, yet they may respond well to PD‐1/PD‐L1 blockade therapy and chemoimmunotherapy. By distinguishing specific TP53 mutations, we can improve risk stratification and offer personalized genomics‐guided therapy to UrCa patients. © 2024 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
A novel fiber‐reinforced polymer rope: Simulation and theoretical investigation
Authors: Zhou Jingyang , Ding Lining , Wang Xin , Su Chang , Huang Huang , He Weiyan , Wu Zhishen
Published: February 2024

The study proposed using twisted rope made of flexible fiber‐reinforced polymers (FRPs) instead of wire and synthetic ropes in high load‐bearing and corrosive environments. Finite element model verification and parameter analysis were conducted for the rope, along with deriving theoretical equations for its tensile properties. Increasing the lay length improved model accuracy, with a maximum bearing capacity within a 10% margin of error compared to experimental results. The model length had minimal impact on calculation results, while changes in radial mesh size (0.13 and 0.2 mm) and friction coefficient (0–0.2) greatly affected maximum contact stress. The tensile strength and elastic modulus of the strand remained almost constant (approximately 1142 MPa and 44 GPa) when the friction coefficient was altered. Increasing lay length (6D–20D) enhanced the tensile properties of the strand, whereas tendon diameter (1–3 mm) had negligible impact. Arranging inner and outer strands with the same lay length was better for circular ropes than those with the same lay angle. Inverse lay direction reduced rope torque and increased strand contact stress. Rectangular ropes had higher strength and modulus conversion efficiency, with lower contact stress compared to circular ones. The accuracy of rope equations improved with longer lay lengths, and adding a correction factor for lay length can modify the equation.

Highlights

A flexible FRP rope with high strength and twisted form was proposed.

The effect of construction factors on the tensile behaviors of ropes was clarified.

Equations for calculating the tensile properties of ropes were derived.
Study on the preparation of porous polyethylene glycol terephthalate film and the influencing factors of etching rate
Authors: Cao Xiaoming , Hu Shike , Zheng Hua , Mukhtar Aiman , Wu KaiMing , Gu Liyuan
Published: February 2024

Porous polyethylene glycol terephthalate (PET) film is a kind of mesopore structure template with pore size ranging from nanometer to micrometer by chemical etching after irradiation of heavy ions. The etching rate is an important factor affecting the pore morphology and quality of the membrane. In this paper, four stacked PET film were irradiated with 140 MeV 32S ions at room temperature and vacuum. During chemical etching of irradiated samples, the path etching rate Vt was determined by conduction method, and the bulk etching rate Vb was determined by weighing method. The relationship between etching temperature, concentration, sensitization time, and etching rate was studied. The results show that the etching rate is exponentially correlated with the etching temperature, and increases linearly with the increase of the etching solution concentration. When the concentration of NaOH is 3 mol·L−1 and the etching temperature is 75°C, the formation of cylindrical micropores is the most favorable. The pore size of porous PET film can be adjusted, and the relationship between pore size and etching time is . This is of great significance for the preparation of nanowires with uniform size and stable properties.

Highlights

We have obtained the optimal conditions for obtaining cylindrical holes.

The relationship between the diameter of holes and etching time were determined.
Orthogonal synthesis and modification of hyperbranched polymers via different colors of light
Authors: Kokcu Esra , Ciftci Mustafa , Tasdelen Mehmet Atilla
Published: February 2024

A versatile and straightforward approach for the synthesis of functional hyperbranched polymers with tunable properties is represented utilizing a chromatic orthogonal protocol. The method involves the combination of photo‐induced electron/energy transfer‐reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (PET‐RAFT) and self‐condensing vinyl polymerization (SCVP) under visible light irradiation leading to the formation of hyperbranched polymers with well‐defined properties possessing photo‐caged diene moieties. Upon UV light irradiation, the remaining photoenol functionality was efficiently activated for the post‐functionalization of the synthesized hyperbranched polymers with maleimide functional molecules via Diels‐Alder photo‐click chemistry. Both low molar mass and polymeric maleimide functional click components, namely N‐phenylmaleimide, poly(ethylene glycol)‐maleimide and polycaprolactone‐maleimide were quantitively attached onto the hyperbranched polymers under ambient conditions. The results obtained from our protocol indicate high efficiency and convenience, offering a straightforward strategy for the design and synthesis of functionalized hyperbranched polymers. The chromatic orthogonal nature of the protocol enables precise control over the modification process, adding versatility to the materials obtained. Overall, this research lays the groundwork for novel pathways in material design, opening new possibilities for advanced materials with tailored properties.
The utility of nasal nitric oxide in the diagnostic evaluation of primary ciliary dyskinesia
Authors: Carr Katherine A. , Moore Paul E. , O'Connor Michael G.
Published: February 2024

Background

There is no gold‐standard test for primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), rather American Thoracic Society guidelines recommend starting with nasal nitric oxide (nNO) in children ≥5 years old and confirming the diagnosis with genetic testing or ciliary biopsy with transmission electron microscopy (TEM). These guidelines have not been studied in a clinical setting. We present a case series describing the PCD diagnostic process at our pediatric PCD center.

Methods

Diagnostic data from 131 patients undergoing PCD consultation were reviewed.

Results

In all participants ≥ 5 years old and who completed nNO using resistor methodology, the first diagnostic test performed was nNO in 77% (73/95), genetic testing in 14% (13/95), and TEM in <1% (9/95). nNO was the only diagnostic test performed in 75% (55/73) of participants who completed nNO first. Seventy‐five percent (55/73) had a single above the cutoff nNO value and PCD was determined to be unlikely in 91% (50/55) without performing additional confirmatory testing. Eleven percent (8/73) had multiple below the cutoff nNO values, with 38% (3/8) being diagnosed with PCD by confirmatory testing and 50% (4/8) with negative confirmatory testing, but being managed as PCD. The genetic testing positivity rate was 50% in participants who completed nNO first and 8% when genetic testing was completed first.

Conclusion

nNO is useful in three situations: an initial above the cutoff nNO value makes PCD unlikely and prevents additional confirmatory testing, repetitively below the cutoff nNO values without positive confirmatory testing suggests a probable PCD diagnosis and the yield of genetic testing is higher when nNO is performed first.
Time‐dependent gene–environment interactions are essential drivers of asthma initiation and persistence
Authors: Chatziparasidis Grigorios , Chatziparasidi Maria R. , Kantar Ahmad , Bush Andrew
Published: February 2024

Asthma is a clinical syndrome caused by heterogeneous underlying mechanisms with some of them having a strong genetic component. It is known that up to 82% of atopic asthma has a genetic background with the rest being influenced by environmental factors that cause epigenetic modification(s) of gene expression. The interaction between the gene(s) and the environment has long been regarded as the most likely explanation of asthma initiation and persistence. Lately, much attention has been given to the time frame the interaction occurs since the host response (immune or biological) to environmental triggers, differs at different developmental ages. The integration of the time variant into asthma pathogenesis is appearing to be equally important as the gene(s)–environment interaction. It seems that, all three factors should be present to trigger the asthma initiation and persistence cascade. Herein, we introduce the importance of the time variant in asthma pathogenesis and emphasize the long‐term clinical significance of the time‐dependent gene–environment interactions in childhood.
An intein‐based biosensor to measure protein stability in vivo
Authors: Son Ahyun , Smetana John S. , Horowitz Scott , Lennon Christopher W.
Published: February 2024

Biosensors to measure protein stability in vivo are valuable tools for a variety of applications. Previous work has demonstrated that a tripartite design, whereby a protein of interest (POI) is inserted within a reporter, can link POI stability to reporter activity. Inteins are translated within other proteins and excised in a self‐mediated protein splicing reaction. Here, we developed a novel folding biosensor where a POI is inserted within an intein, which is subsequently translated within an antibiotic resistance marker. We showed that protein splicing is required for antibiotic resistance and that housing a stable POI within the intein, compared to an unstable variant, results in a 100,000‐fold difference in survival. Further, using a fluorescent protein that matures slowly as the POI, we developed a reporter with two simultaneous readouts for protein folding. Finally, we showed that co‐expression of GroEL can significantly increase the activity of both reporters, further verifying that protein folding factors can act on the POI in the biosensor. As a whole, our work provides a new twist on the traditional tripartite approach to measuring protein stability in vivo.
VWD domain stabilization by autocatalytic Asp‐Pro cleavage
Authors: Yeshaya Noa , Gupta Prashant Kumar , Dym Orly , Morgenstern David , Major Dan Thomas , Fass Deborah
Published: February 2024

Domains known as von Willebrand factor type D (VWD) are found in extracellular and cell‐surface proteins including von Willebrand factor, mucins, and various signaling molecules and receptors. Many VWD domains have a glycine‐aspartate‐proline‐histidine (GDPH) amino‐acid sequence motif, which is hydrolytically cleaved post‐translationally between the aspartate (Asp) and proline (Pro). The Fc IgG binding protein (FCGBP), found in intestinal mucus secretions and other extracellular environments, contains 13 VWD domains, 11 of which have a GDPH cleavage site. In this study, we investigated the structural and biophysical consequences of Asp‐Pro peptide cleavage in a representative FCGBP VWD domain. We found that endogenous Asp‐Pro cleavage increases the resistance of the domain to exogenous proteolytic degradation. Tertiary structural interactions made by the newly generated chain termini, as revealed by a crystal structure of an FCGBP segment containing the VWD domain, may explain this observation. Notably, the Gly‐Asp peptide bond, upstream of the cleavage site, assumed the cis configuration in the structure. In addition to these local features of the cleavage site, a global organizational difference was seen when comparing the FCGBP segment structure with the numerous other structures containing the same set of domains. Together, these data illuminate the outcome of GDPH cleavage and demonstrate the plasticity of proteins with VWD domains, which may contribute to their evolution for function in a dynamic extracellular environment.
Protein structure accuracy estimation using geometry‐complete perceptron networks
Authors: Morehead Alex , Liu Jian , Cheng Jianlin
Published: February 2024

Estimating the accuracy of protein structural models is a critical task in protein bioinformatics. The need for robust methods in the estimation of protein model accuracy (EMA) is prevalent in the field of protein structure prediction, where computationally‐predicted structures need to be screened rapidly for the reliability of the positions predicted for each of their amino acid residues and their overall quality. Current methods proposed for EMA are either coupled tightly to existing protein structure prediction methods or evaluate protein structures without sufficiently leveraging the rich, geometric information available in such structures to guide accuracy estimation. In this work, we propose a geometric message passing neural network referred to as the geometry‐complete perceptron network for protein structure EMA (GCPNet‐EMA), where we demonstrate through rigorous computational benchmarks that GCPNet‐EMA's accuracy estimations are 47% faster and more than 10% (6%) more correlated with ground‐truth measures of per‐residue (per‐target) structural accuracy compared to baseline state‐of‐the‐art methods for tertiary (multimer) structure EMA including AlphaFold 2. The source code and data for GCPNet‐EMA are available on GitHub, and a public web server implementation is freely available.
Enhanced Thermoelectric Performance of Cu2Se Alloys by Simultaneous Engineering of Thermal and Electrical Transport Properties through S and Te Co‐Doping
Authors: Khan Mahwish , Wang Hongchao , Wang Chunlei
Published: February 2024

Cu2Se‐based binary compounds have recently fetched the attention of researchers due to their remarkable electrical and extremely low thermal properties. In addition, Cu2Se‐based quaternary chalcogenides are expected to present exceptional thermoelectric performance. Cu2Se1−x−ySxTey‐like compounds are synthesized via microwave‐assisted hydrothermal method and their respective thermal and electrical transport properties are studied in this research work. The phase purity and homogeneity are examined by X‐ray diffraction and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometry analysis. The introduction of S and Te elements into Cu2Se matrix enhances Seebeck coefficient resulting in improved electrical performance illustrating a maximum power factor of 989.4 μWK−2 m−1 at 673 K. Furthermore, S‐ and Te‐co‐doped samples exhibit reduced total thermal conductivity values with lowest value of 0.808 WK−1 m−1 for Cu2Se0.96S0.02Te0.02 sample in comparison to 1.18 WK−1 m−1 for the pristine sample. The simultaneous improvement in electrical and thermal properties results in enhanced figure of merit of 0.82 for Cu2Se0.96S0.02Te0.02 sample at 673 K.
Resilient event‐triggered fault‐tolerant optimization for Euler–Lagrange plants with intermittent communication and asynchronous DoS attacks
Authors: Yuan Xin‐Rui , Yao Xiang‐Yu , Park Ju H. , Ge Ming‐Feng
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates the distributed optimization problem of networked Euler–Lagrange (EL) systems with actuator faults and unknown model parameters. In order to solve this issue, some event‐triggered fault‐tolerant (ETFT) optimal coordination algorithms with the mechanism of intermittent communication and intermittent controller update are designed for the first time to compensate for the impact of physical faults on the system, and reduce communication costs and control resource consumption. For practical applications, it is difficult for the system to have a secure environment if there exist malicious attacks blocking network channels among agents. Therefore, the resilient ETFT optimal coordination with intermittent communication subject to asynchronous denial‐of‐service (DoS) attacks is considered. Especially, auxiliary systems with adaptive gains are introduced in the algorithms due to the unavailability of the EL model parameters, which also enable virtual data exchange between agents and protect actual state information. Note that the algorithms are fully distributed as the global topology information is not required. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed algorithms is verified through numerical simulation of examples.
Is it time for a new job or career?
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: February 2024

By the time I was 20, I knew I wanted a career in higher education. I met with a dean at my junior college and thought his job was something I’d like to do.
FGF23 facilitates IL‐1β synthesis in rheumatoid arthritis through activating PI3K, Akt, and NF‐κB pathways
Authors: Hu Sung‐Lin , Thadevoos Louis Anoop , Ho Trung‐Loc , Lin Yen‐You , Chen Hsien‐Te , Huang Chien‐Chung , Su Chen‐Ming , Tang Chih‐Hsin
Published: February 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a well‐known autoimmune disorder related with joint pain, joint swelling, cartilage and bone degradation as well as deformity. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is an endocrine factor of the FGF family primarily produced by osteocytes and osteoblasts, involves an essential effect in pathogenesis of RA. IL‐1β is a vital proinflammatory factor in the development of RA. However, the role of FGF23 on IL‐1β synthesis in RA has not been fully explored. Our analysis of database revealed higher levels of FGF23 and IL‐1β in RA samples compared with healthy controls. High‐throughput screening demonstrated that IL‐1β is a potential candidate factor after FGF23 treatment in RA synovial fibroblasts (RASFs). FGF23 concentration dependently promotes IL‐1β synthesis in RASFs. FGF23 enhances IL‐1β expression by activating the PI3K, Akt, and NF‐κB pathways. Our findings support the notion that FGF23 is a promising target in the remedy of RA.
Approaches and progress in breeding drought‐tolerant maize hybrids for tropical lowlands in west and central Africa
Authors: Menkir Abebe , Dieng Ibnou , Gedil Melaku , Mengesha Wende , Oyekunle Muhyideen , Riberio Priscillia F. , Adu Gloria Boakyewaa , Yacoubou Abdoul‐Madjidou , Coulibaly Mmadou , Bankole Folusho A. , Derera John , Bossey Bunmi , Unachukwu Nnanna , Ilesanmi Yinka , Meseka Silvestro
Published: February 2024

Drought represents a significant production challenge to maize farmers in West and Central Africa, causing substantial economic losses. Breeders at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture have therefore been developing drought‐tolerant maize varieties to attain high grain yields in rainfed maize production zones. The present review provides a historical overview of the approaches used and progress made in developing drought‐tolerant hybrids over the years. Breeders made a shift from a wide area testing approach, to the use of managed screening sites, to precisely control the intensity, and timing of drought stress for developing drought‐tolerant maize varieties. These sites coupled with the use of molecular markers allowed choosing suitable donors with drought‐adaptive alleles for integration into existing elite maize lines to generate new drought‐tolerant inbred lines. These elite maize inbred lines have then been used to develop hybrids with enhanced tolerance to drought. Genetic gains estimates were made using performance data of drought‐tolerant maize hybrids evaluated in regional trials for 11 years under managed drought stress, well‐watered conditions, and across diverse rainfed environments. The results found significant linear annual yield gains of 32.72 kg ha−1 under managed drought stress, 38.29 kg ha−1 under well‐watered conditions, and 66.57 kg ha−1 across multiple rainfed field environments. Promising hybrids that deliver high grain yields were also identified for areas affected by drought and variable rainfed growing conditions. The significant genetic correlations found among the three growing conditions highlight the potential to exploit the available genetic resources and modern tools to further enhance tolerance to drought in hybrids.
Nutraceutical supplementation increases mobility in aged captive non‐domesticated felids
Authors: Norfolk Matthew , Bielby Jon , Figueiredo Passos Luiza , Reddon Adam R. , Rendle Matthew
Published: February 2024

Background

Musculoskeletal diseases (MSDs) are an increasing issue as the lifespan of captive animals increases. Extracts of green‐lipped mussels have been linked to alleviation of MSDs in domestic carnivores. Understanding their efficacy in non‐domestic felids could provide another tool to improve the welfare of aged individuals in collections.

Methods

A within‐subject study design quantified steps per minute in each of 18 cats of 13 species before and after the addition of a nutraceutical containing green‐lipped mussel extract (Antinol) to their diets. The age structure of four commonly kept subspecies of non‐domestic cats was quantified to provide a demographic context to the need for managing aged individuals.

Results

Each of the 18 cats exhibited a higher number of steps per minute after the addition of Antinol to their diet. At the group level, a paired t‐test showed that the step rate was significantly increased after the addition of Antinol to the diet.

Limitations

While our results showed a strong significant increase in step rate following Antinol supplementation, further studies that incorporate a placebo, more individuals and more detailed metrics of mobility would provide a more detailed evidence base for practitioners.

Conclusion

Nutraceuticals may yield benefits to aged individual felids, including species kept widely in European collections. Their use warrants further, detailed research in collections.
Surgical management of cranial thoracolumbar stenosis and concurrent kyphoscoliosis in a dog by dorsal vertebral stabilisation using low‐profile three‐dimensional printed patient‐specific drill guides
Authors: Hajdu Dorothy , Oxley Bill , Driver Colin
Published: February 2024

The study described the clinical and imaging findings, treatment and outcome for a British bulldog with cranial thoracic vertebral canal stenosis and thoracolumbar kyphoscoliosis. Data on clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging, surgical procedure, complications and outcome were evaluated. Multiple thoracic vertebral body and dorsal arch malformations were detected by computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, resulting in spinal cord compression due to vertebral canal stenosis at T5–T6 and T9–T10, as well as kyphoscoliosis. Surgical vertebral stabilisation between T2 and T10 was performed by using a novel design of unilateral three‐dimensional printed patient‐specific drill guides, to preserve the dorsal spinous processes. Neurological signs had completely resolved 2 months after surgery. Follow‐up examination and computed tomography scan 15 months postoperatively revealed normal neurological status, implant stability and no progression of kyphoscoliosis. This novel design of unilateral three‐dimensional printed patient‐specific drill guides allowed dorsal thoracic vertebral stabilisation without resection of dorsal spinous processes and multiple‐level stabilisation.
Radiographic identification of intravenous cephalic catheter fragmentation and removal via venotomy in the canine neonate
Authors: Iversen James , Iversen Kaitlyn , Ho Eckart Louisa
Published: February 2024

A 31‐day‐old, female, entire Basenji was referred for the investigation and treatment of a suspected intravenous catheter fragmentation. Orthogonal radiographs revealed a faint linear radiopaque body within the proximo‐dorsal region of the cubital articulation, dorsal to the radial head. A simple venotomy was performed under light sedation and local anaesthesia, which was well tolerated by the patient with no complications. At the time of writing this report, the use of orthogonal radiography and simple venotomy technique have not been reported together in the canine neonates.
MiniRead: A simple and inexpensive do‐it‐yourself device for multiple analyses of micro‐organism growth kinetics
Authors: Falque Matthieu , Bourgais Aurélie , Dumas Fabrice , de Carvalho Mickaël , Diblasi Célian
Published: February 2024

Fitness in micro‐organisms can be proxied by growth parameters on different media and/or temperatures. This is achieved by measuring optical density at 600 nm using a spectrophotometer, which measures the effect of absorbance and side scattering due to turbidity of cells suspensions. However, when growth kinetics must be monitored in many 96‐well plates at the same time, buying several 96‐channel spectrophotometers is often beyond budgets. The MiniRead device presented here is a simple and inexpensive do‐it‐yourself 96‐well temperature‐controlled turbidimeter designed to measure the interception of white light via absorption or side scattering through liquid culture medium. Turbidity is automatically recorded in each well at regular time intervals for up to several days or weeks. Output tabulated text files are recorded into a micro‐SD memory card to be easily transferred to a computer. We propose also an R package which allows (1) to compute the nonlinear calibration curves required to convert raw readings into cell concentration values, and (2) to analyze growth kinetics output files to automatically estimate proxies of growth parameters such as lag time, maximum growth rate, or cell concentration at the plateau.
Respect for Humanity
Authors: Aylsworth Timothy , Castro Clinton
Published: February 2024

Philosophers have defined autonomy in a variety of ways. In this chapter, we present a Kantian account of personal autonomy as the capacity to set and pursue your own ends (which Kant refers to as “humanity”). We explain how this involves two distinct components: capacity and authenticity. To have autonomous capacities, you must possess baseline abilities (to form intentions, evaluate commitments, etc.); be free of external constraints; be free of certain cognitive inhibitions, and you must have a sufficiently wide range of options. In order for your desires to count as authentic, they must be free of manipulation and coercion, consistent with other motivational states, free from alienation, and they must not be adaptive preferences. After developing our conception of autonomy, we explain and defend Kant’s view that we are morally obligated to respect humanity in ourselves and in others. We conclude by briefly explaining why other moral theories have similar commitments to the moral significance of autonomy.
BRI as China’s Platform to Push for Economic Globalisation
Authors: Yu Hong
Published: February 2024

Against the backdrop of global economic growth slowdown, rising unemployment and widening income disparities and de-industrialisation in some developed nations, in the West, there is growing resentment towards free trade and economic globalisation. In contrast, China has leveraged on the Belt and Road Initiative and other platforms to promote its approach and thinking on global economic development, free trade and economic globalisation.
Temporal Regularity of Symmetric Stochastic p-Stokes Systems
Authors: Wichmann Jörn
Published: February 2024

We study the symmetric stochastic p-Stokes system, $$p \in (1,\infty )$$

p
∈
(
1
,
∞
)

, in a bounded domain. The results are two-fold: First, we show that in the context of analytically weak solutions, the stochastic pressure—related to non-divergence free stochastic forces—enjoys almost $$-1/2$$

-
1
/
2

temporal derivatives on a Besov scale. Second, we verify that the velocity u of strong solutions obeys 1/2 temporal derivatives in an exponential Nikolskii space. Moreover, we prove that the non-linear symmetric gradient $$V(\mathbb {\epsilon } u) = (\kappa + \left| \mathbb {\epsilon } u\right| )^{(p-2)/2} \mathbb {\epsilon } u$$

V

(
ϵ
u
)

=

(
κ
+

ϵ
u

)

(
p
-
2
)
/
2

ϵ
u

, $$\kappa \ge 0$$

κ
≥
0

, which measures the ellipticity of the p-Stokes system, has 1/2 temporal derivatives in a Nikolskii space.
Multidisciplinary survey on use of feeding tubes in head and neck cancer patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy in Germany—the SUFEETUBE project
Authors: Löser Anastassia , Fabian Alexander , Rühle Alexander , Thieme Alexander , Baehr Andrea , Käsmann Lukas , Zwaan Inga , Kahle Birte , Soror Tamer , Kunte Ameya , Seyedi Niloufar , Kebenko Maxim , Seidel Christoph , Dierks Friederike , Krause Linda , Bruchhage Karl-Ludwig , Rades Dirk
Published: February 2024

Background and objective

Data on enteral tube feeding in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy vary considerably between German institutions. This survey aims to investigate the management of feeding tubes in an interdisciplinary context across Germany.

Materials and methods

Between December 2022 and May 2023, 70 participants (42 radiation oncologists, 12 medical oncologists, 14 head and neck surgeons, and 2 physicians covering several specialties) responded to our web-based survey. In addition to the type of institution (university hospital, private practice, etc.), their age, and professional experience (in years), participants were asked several questions on the indication and institutional policy for tube placement and management (prophylactic/reactive nasogastric or gastrostomy tube). All questions were mandatory single- or multiple-choice questions, while additional comments were possible by email.

Results

Most participants were employed at a university hospital (n = 52; 74.3%) and came from a radiation oncology background (n = 42; 60%). Fifty-four contributors (77.1%) reported that no nutritional risk screening prior to chemoradiotherapy was routinely performed, and 71.4% (n = 50) stated that no standardized protocol was used at the institution to set the indication for tube placement. Generally, policies and methods of tube feeding vary considerably between the individual institutions and specialties. However, the majority (n = 56, 80%) recommended a prophylactic percutaneous enteral gastrostomy (PEG) tube to their patients before chemoradiotherapy. Still, there was no consistent trend regarding the approach for reactive tube feeding.

Conclusion

The policies and methods of tube feeding vary considerably between the individual institutions and specialties in Germany. In the era of individualized medicine, uniform protocols are difficult to establish. However, a baseline nutritional risk screening could simplify decision-making in clinical practice.
Novel high-yield potato protease inhibitor panels block a wide array of proteases involved in viral infection and crucial tissue damage
Authors: Visser Nienke , Herreman Laure C. M. , Vandooren Jennifer , Pereira Rafaela Vaz Sousa , Opdenakker Ghislain , Spelbrink Robin E. J. , Wilbrink Maarten H. , Bremer Edwin , Gosens Reinoud , Nawijn Martijn C. , van der Ende-Metselaar Heidi H. , Smit Jolanda M. , Laus Marc C. , Laman Jon D.
Published: February 2024

Viruses critically rely on various proteases to ensure host cell entry and replication. In response to viral infection, the host will induce acute tissue inflammation pulled by granulocytes. Upon hyperactivation, neutrophil granulocytes may cause undue tissue damage through proteolytic degradation of the extracellular matrix. Here, we assess the potential of protease inhibitors (PI) derived from potatoes in inhibiting viral infection and reducing tissue damage. The original full spectrum of potato PI was developed into five fractions by means of chromatography and hydrolysis. Individual fractions showed varying inhibitory efficacy towards a panel of proteases including trypsin, chymotrypsin, ACE2, elastase, and cathepsins B and L. The fractions did not interfere with SARS-CoV-2 infection of Vero E6 cells in vitro. Importantly, two of the fractions fully inhibited elastin-degrading activity of complete primary human neutrophil degranulate. These data warrant further development of potato PI fractions for biomedical purposes, including tissue damage crucial to SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis.

Key messages

Protease inhibitor fractions from potato differentially inhibit a series of human proteases involved in viral replication and in tissue damage by overshoot inflammation.

Protease inhibition of cell surface receptors such as ACE2 does not prevent virus infection of Vero cells in vitro.

Protease inhibitors derived from potato can fully inhibit elastin-degrading primary human neutrophil proteases.

Protease inhibitor fractions can be produced at high scale (hundreds of thousands of kilograms, i.e., tons) allowing economically feasible application in lower and higher income countries.
Fungal Spore Richness and Abundance of Allergenic Taxa: Comparing a Portable Impactor and Passive Trap Indoors and Outdoors in an Urban Setting
Authors: Minahan Nicholas T. , Chen Chi-Hsien , Chuang Yu-Chen , Tsai Kun-Hsien , Shen Wei-Chiang , Guo Yue Leon
Published: February 2024

Fungal spores are common airborne allergens, and fungal richness has been implicated in allergic disease. Amplicon sequencing of environmental DNA from air samples is a promising method to estimate fungal spore richness with semi-quantification of hundreds of taxa and can be combined with quantitative PCR to derive abundance estimates. However, it remains unclear how the choice of air sampling method influences these estimates. This study compared active sampling with a portable impactor and passive sampling with a passive trap over different durations to estimate fungal spore richness and the abundance of allergenic taxa. Air sampling was conducted indoors and outdoors at 12 residences, including repeated measurements with a portable impactor and passive traps with 1-day and 7-day durations. ITS2 amplicon sequence data were transformed to spore equivalents estimated by quantitative PCR, repeated active samples were combined, and abundance-based rarefaction was performed to standardize sample coverage for estimation of genus-level richness and spore abundance. Rarefied fungal richness was similar between methods indoors but higher for passive traps with a 7-day duration outdoors. Rarefied abundance of allergenic genera was similar between methods but some genera had lower abundance for passive traps with a 1-day duration, which differed indoors and outdoors indicating stochasticity in the collection of spores on collocated samplers. This study found that similar estimates of fungal spore richness and abundance of allergenic taxa can be obtained using a portable impactor or a passive trap within one day and that increased passive sample duration provides limited additional information.
The intake of ultra-processed foods and homocysteine levels in women with(out) overweight and obesity: The Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort
Authors: Schenkelaars Nicole , van Rossem Lenie , Willemsen Sten P. , Faas Marijke M. , Schoenmakers Sam , Steegers-Theunissen Régine P. M.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Today’s diet consists of a substantial proportion of ultra-processed foods (UPF), especially in women with overweight and obesity in the reproductive period. High UPF intake results in an inadequate and unbalanced diet leading to derangements of several metabolic pathways detrimental to pregnancy and birth outcomes. Therefore, we aim to investigate whether UPF intake in the periconceptional period affects total homocysteine plasma levels (tHcy).

Methods

1532 participants were included from the prospective Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. UPF intake was calculated using Food Frequency Questionnaires including items classified as 4 in the Nova classification, and tHcy was measured by using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry system, with an interassay coefficient of variation of < 5.5%. Multivariable linear regression modeling was used and adjusted for covariates and significant interaction terms.

Results

Women with overweight or obesity showed significantly higher percentage of UPF intake (respectively, 50.3 and 51.3%) and higher tHcy (respectively, 6.6 and 6.3 µmol/L, Kruskal–Wallis test; respectively, p < 0.001 and p = 0.04) compared to women with normal BMI (UPF intake: 46.8%, tHcy: 6.1 µmol/L). A 10% higher intake of UPF was associated with an increase in tHcy (adjusted: β = 1.31, 95% CI = 0.38–2.23). Analysis stratified for BMI classification showed comparable associations in normal weight participants (adjusted: β = 1.07, 95% CI = 0.06–2.07); however, no significant association in participants with overweight (adjusted: β = 0.06, 95% CI = − 0.95–1.07) and obesity (adjusted: β = 1.70, 95% CI = − 0.52–3.92) was shown.

Conclusion

This study showed that a higher intake of UPF is associated with increased tHcy. Better knowledge and awareness of the nutritional quality of the diet in the periconceptional period may contribute to 1-CM and subsequently improve pregnancy course and outcome.

Trial registration number and date

NTR4356, November 2010.
An Unknown Foreign laryngeal Object: an exotic complication of skull base osteoradionecrosis
Authors: Grasl Stefan , Wassipaul Christian , Fischer Gregor , Arnoldner Christoph , Janik Stefan
Published: February 2024

Background

Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the skull base is a rare complication after head and neck radiation with a broad variety of subsequent complications.

Methods

A 68-year-old woman with a complex oncological history (right-sided sphenoid meningioma; left-sided neck metastasis of a Cancer of Unknown Primary—CUP) was admitted with a right-sided epi—/ oropharyngeal mass and severe pain exacerbations for further evaluation. CT scan revealed an advanced ORN of the skull base with subsequent abruption of the ventral part of the clivus. This dislocated part of the clivus wedged in the oropharynx for 48 h and then moved towards the larynx, resulting in dyspnea and almost complete airway obstruction.

Results

Due to the dangerous airway situation, an urgent exploration and removal of the dislocated clivus was necessary. After a potential cervical spine instability was ruled out, the patient’s airway was initially secured with an awake tracheotomy and the clivus was removed transorally. The tracheostomy tube was removed during the ongoing inpatient stay, and the patient was discharged with significant pain relief.

Conclusions

The present case illustrates an orphan complication of skull base ORN resulting in a major airway emergency situation.
Effect of cerebral small vessel disease on the integrity of cholinergic system in mild cognitive impairment patients: a longitudinal study
Authors: Qiu Tiantian , Hong Hui , Zeng Qingze , Xu Xiaopei , Wang Yanyan , Zhu Lixin , Zhang Lige , Li Kaicheng , Dai Shouping , Li Xiaodong , Xie Fei , Zhang Yusong , Luo Xiao ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: February 2024

We aimed to investigate the effect of cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) on cholinergic system integrity in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients. Nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM) volume and cholinergic pathways integrity was evaluated at baseline, 1-, 2-, and 4-year follow-ups in 40 cognitively unimpaired (CU) participants, 29 MCI patients without SVD, and 23 MCI patients with SVD. We compared cholinergic markers among three groups and examined their associations with SVD burden in MCI patients. We used linear mixed models to assess longitudinal changes in cholinergic markers over time among groups. Mediation analysis was employed to investigate the mediating role of cholinergic system degeneration between SVD and cognitive impairment. Increased mean diffusivity (MD) in medial and lateral pathways was observed in MCI patients with SVD compared to those without SVD and CU participants. Both MCI groups showed decreased NBM volume compared to CU participants, while there was no significant difference between the two MCI groups. Longitudinally, compared to CU participants, MCI patients with SVD displayed a more rapid change in MD in both pathways, but not in NBM volume. Furthermore, SVD burden was associated with cholinergic pathway disruption and its faster rate of change in MCI patients. However, mediation analyses showed that cholinergic pathways did not mediate significant indirect effects of SVD burden on cognitive impairment. Our findings suggest that SVD could accelerate the degeneration of cholinergic pathways in MCI patients. However, they do not provide evidence to support that SVD could contribute to cognitive impairment through cholinergic system injury.
Investigating the impact of external load on muscle synergies during bipedal squats
Authors: Kenville Rouven , Clauß Martina , Maudrich Tom
Published: February 2024

Purpose

A broad functional movement repertoire is crucial for engaging in physical activity and reducing the risk of injury, both of which are central aspects of lifelong health. As a fundamental exercise in both recreational and rehabilitative training regimes, the bipedal squat (SQBp) incorporates many everyday movement patterns. Crucially, SQBp can only be considered functional if the practitioner can meet the coordinative demands. Many factors affect coordinative aspects of an exercise, most notably external load. Since compound movements are assumed to be organized in a synergistic manner, we employed muscle synergy analysis to examine differences in muscle synergy properties between various external load levels during SQBp.

Methods

Ten healthy male recreational athletes were enrolled in the present study. Each participant performed three sets of ten SQBp on a smith machine at three submaximal load levels (50%, 62.5%, and 75% of 3 repetition maximum) across three non-consecutive days. Muscle activity was recorded from 12 prime movers of SQBp by way of electromyography (EMG). Muscle synergies were analyzed in terms of temporal activation patterns, i.e., waveform, as well as the relative input of each muscle into individual synergies, i.e., weight contribution.

Results

Waveforms of muscle synergies did not differ between loads. Weight contributions showed significant differences between load levels, albeit only for the gastrocnemius muscle in a single synergy.

Conclusion

Taken together, our results imply mostly stable spatiotemporal composition of muscle activity during SQBp, underlining the importance of technical competence during compound movement performance in athletic and rehabilitative settings.