bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the solution of external laminar free convection to power law fluids
Authors:   , Chen Tommy Yih-Wen
Published: June 2024

"Pseudoplastic fluids (power law fluid index N [less than] 1), dilatant fluids (N>1), and even Newtonian fluids (N=1) are commonly called power laws fluids, because they show an empirical shear stress (T)-strain rate (relationship known as the power law where N and m are empirical constants characteristic of the fluid; miscalled the fluid consistency index. Equation (1.1) is also called the power model of Ostwald-de Waele-Nutting (1), or simply the Ostwald power model. It applies only to one-dimensional, incompressible flow in which is much larger than all the other elements instrain rate tensor. It should also be noted that all power law fluids have no yield stress and are time independent; in other words, the time dependency of the properties is very small and thus may be neglected in most applications. Typical flow curves for power law fluids are plotted in Fig. 1.1."--Introduction.
The public voice of Richard Crashaw : a study in the use of religious tradition
Authors:   , Cooper Robert M.
Published: June 2024

"It is something of an understatement to say that of all the poets of the seventeenth century, Crashaw has been most subjected to the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune. He has suffered the fate of being labeled the Catholic and Baroque poet of a nation which moved markedly from both positions, and over the years cliches have grown up around his name and work which have never been adequately dispelled. He has been called perverse, private, foreign, formless, and mystical; and one need only glance through the major comments on the poet to see the crystallization and evolution of such judgments."--Page 1.
Tudor prose satire : the dynamics of a visual mode
Authors:   , Gresham Stephen L.
Published: June 2024

"Peter Bruegel's Dulle Griet ("Mad Meg") is a collage of feverish movement replete with monstrous figures, absurd concoctions, and soberly aggressive peasant women. A besieged village forms the lower half of the setting while a parched wasteland stretches disjunctively in the background. A conflagration surrounds the entire scene casting an eerie orange glow over the chaos. Center foreground, Mad Meg, an armour- plated witch, strides defiantly to the left lugging the spoils of an apparent victory in one arm and brandishing a sword in the other. Without even so much as a critical preface, this work possesses an emotional integrity; that is, Dulle Griet elicits a response, usually a combination of revulsion and nervous amusement, regardless of how knowledgeable the viewer may be as to the precise nature of the traditions and conventions which influenced Bruegel. But one critical assumption, valid for both visual art and literature, maintains that elucidation of an artistic work enhances one's appreciation for it as well as contributes to recognition of its aesthetic integrity. Consequently, a critical study investigating Bruegel's unusual imagery, for example, qualifies as a worthwhile undertaking if it assists a viewer's understanding of the diablerie mode."--Page 2.
Avantages et inconvénients de l’utilisation de la recherche qualitative en droit
Authors: Torreão André D Albuquerque , Dendasck Carla Viana
Published: June 2024

La production de la recherche scientifique dans le domaine du droit s’est révélée être un défi pour les professionnels habitués à travailler avec d’autres formes d’argumentation dans l’exercice de leur fonction quotidienne. Ainsi, cet article se présente comme une proposition de réflexion à travers la question suivante : Quels sont les avantages et les inconvénients de l’utilisation de la recherche qualitative en droit ?
Ventajas y desventajas de la utilización de la investigación con enfoque cualitativo en el derecho
Authors: Torreão André D Albuquerque , Dendasck Carla Viana
Published: June 2024

La producción de la investigación científica en el área del derecho se ha presentado como un desafío para los profesionales que están acostumbrados a trabajar con otras formas de argumentación en el ejercicio de su función diaria. Así, este artículo surge como una propuesta de reflexión a través de la siguiente pregunta orientadora: ¿Cuáles son las ventajas y desventajas de la utilización de la investigación con enfoque cualitativo en el derecho?
Investigasi Kondisi Airtanah Dengan Geolistrik: Studi Kasus Endapan Aluvial di Bengalon, Kutai Timur, Provinsi Kalimantan Timur
Authors: Devy Shalaho Dina , Hasyim Ibnu
Published: June 2024

Bengalon berlokasi di Kabupaten Kutai Timur, Provinsi Kalimantan Timur. Bengalon masuk dalam cekungan airtanah Samarinda-Bontang. Berkembangnya daerah pertanian dan industri yang dibarengi makin banyaknya daerah pemukiman menyebabkan peningkatan kebutuhan air baku pada daerah tersebut. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui potensi airtanah daerah aluvial dengan metode geolistrik resistivitas. Survei resistivitas menghasilkan litologi bawah permukaan, kondisi airtanah dangkal yang berupa kedalaman, ketebalan, dan jenis akuifer serta tipe kualitas airtanahnya. Terdapat 10 lokasi pengambilan data geolistrik dengan metode geolistrik 2D. Hasil penelitian diketahui bahwa mayoritas akuifer berupa endapan aluvial yang terdiri pasir dan lempung pasiran. Resistivitas yang mengindikasikan airtanah, yaitu 1 – 4 Ω m, berada pada kedalaman 0 – 50 m dengan ketebalan bervariasi dari 10 – 20 m. Adanya intrusi air laut pada akuifer menyebabkan kualitas airtanah cenderung payau yang disebabkan berada di daerah rawa yang berbatasan dengan pantai.
Peningkatan Nilai Tambah Mineral Kalsit Menjadi Barang Seni Lampu Hias
Authors: Ramadani Rully Nurhasan , Dinata M. Imam Aga , Adhitya Eka , Nuryahya Himawan , Widayati Sri
Published: June 2024

Abstrak
Peningkatan nilai tambah mineral dan batuan dapat memberikan manfaat bagi masyarakat luas. Dengan kebijakan konservasi bahan galian dimana memiliki fokus optimalisasi manfaat dan minimalisasi dampak negatif usaha pertambangan. Didalam kerangka optimalisasi manfaat bahan galian terdapat upaya, pemeliharaan, proteksi, penambangan dan pengolahan serta peningkatan nilai tambah terhadap bahan galian tersebut. Mineral kalsit (CaCO3) termasuk kelompok mineral karbonat sebagai salah satu mineral penyusun utama batuan gamping. Pemanfaatan mineral kalsit ini ditinjau berdasarkan kualitas sifat fisik dan kandungan kimia yang terkandung. Pada prinsipnya penelitian ini memanfaatkan sifat fisik dari mineral tersebut dikarenakan kulitas kandungan kimia yang dikandung mineral kalsit tergolong rendah. Metode trial and error digunakan didalam penelitian ini dengan tujuan untuk mendapatkan desain barang seni yang tepat. Proses pengolahan yang sederhana serta tidak membutuhkan teknologi tinggi dan keahlian khusus yang bersertifikat, dengan memanfaatkan sifat transparani, warna dan kilap dari mineral kalsit akan menjadi barang seni yang memiliki nilai tambah ketika diberikan pencahayaan.
 
Kata kunci: Kalsit, Nilai tambah, Barang Seni, Lampu Hias
Inclusive Learning Environment in Transnational Education: A Case Study of a First Year Software Engineering Programme
Authors: Rosunally Yasmine
Published: June 2024

This research explores the execution of an inclusive learning environment (ILE) in a first-year Software Engineering programme at a Chinese university within a Transnational Education (TNE) framework. The practical use of inclusive education in TNE settings is still relatively underexplored, despite its acknowledged role in improving student experiences and results. Using surveys, interviews, and module evaluations, the study examines the unique challenges and opportunities presented when inclusivity practices cross-cultural and educational borders. The research identifies three key factors in creating an ILE: the programme setup, cultural sensitivities in teaching, and diverse assessment methods. These factors significantly enhance student engagement and overall learning outcomes. The study notably contributes to the discourse on inclusivity in TNE, particularly within the Chinese context, offering practical insights for educators and stakeholders developing inclusive TNE software engineering programmes. It ends by recommending further research on the long-term effects of these strategies on student outcomes and TNE policymaking.
Geçci Şeftali Çeşitlerinin Depolanmasında 1-MCP ve Dinamik Kontrollu Atmosfer Koşullarının Kullanımı
Authors: Kaynaş Kenan , Çiftci Hatice Nihan , Aktürk Cemre , Kıyı Hulusi
Published: June 2024

Taze meyve ve sebzelerin depolanmasında en yeni teknoloji olan Dinamik Kontrollu Atmosferde (DKA) muhafaza modeli elmalarda ticari uygulama bulmasına karşılık diğer türlerde halen araştırma bazında çalışılmaktadır. Bu çalışma kapsamında çok geçci ve uzun süre depolanan bazı şeftali çeşitlerinin en az kayıpla depolama sürelerini uzatmak amacıyla 1-Methylcyclopropane (1-MCP) uygulaması ve DKA koşullarının kombinasyonun kullanılmasının ve sadece DKA koşullarında depolamanın etkileri araştırılmıştır. Çalışmada bitkisel materyal olarak Anadolu Etap Penkon Gıda A.Ş.’nin Çanakkale Kumkale beldesinde tesis edilmiş olan bahçelerinden temin edilen çok geçci ANET 30, ANET 33 ve ANET 55 çeşitlerine ait meyveler kullanılmıştır. Hasattan sonra meyveler gaz izolasyonlu kontrollü atmosfer odalarında 625 ppb dozunda 1-MCP uygulaması yapıldıktan sonra kademeli olarak sıcaklığı 1oC düşürülen DKA koşullarında 60 gün süreyle depolama yapılmıştır. DKA çalışmaları, Anadolu Etap Penkon Gıda A.Ş.’e ait Balıkesir ili Gönen İlçesinde bulunan ticari kontrollü atmosfer depolarında Flourescence Interactive Response Monitor adı verilen chlorophyll fluorescence sensörleri kullanılarak gerçekleştirilmiştir. Depo atmosferindeki O2 oranının anaerobik kompanse noktasına düşürülmesinde azot jenaratörü kullanılmıştır. Ortam CO2 oranı ise ürünlerin solunumu sonucu ortama verilen CO2 sayesinde sabit (%3) tutulmuştur. Ancak çalışmada meyvelerde oluşabilecek risk nedeniyle ortam O2 oranı minimum %1 seviyesinde sabitlenmiştir. Çalışmada meyveler 60 gün süreyle depolanmış ve başlangıca göre depolama sonunda meyve eti sertliği (MES), suda çözünür kuru madde (SÇKM), titre edilebilir asit (TEA), şeker içerikleri ve kabuk rengindeki değişimler saptanmıştır. Bu özelliklerdeki değişimler dikkate alındığında şeftali çeşitlerinin DKA koşullarında (%1 O2 + %3 CO2) önemli bir kalite kaybı olmadan 60 gün depolanabileceği tespit edilmiştir. Projede en uzun depolama süresi 60 gün olarak hedeflenmesine karşılık gözlemler bu meyvelerin DKA koşullarında 75-80 güne kadar depolanabileceği yönündedir.
Delitos por narcotráfico de mujeres cis y mujeres trans en Ecuador: análisis desde una perspectiva de género
Authors: Morales-Zambrano Josué
Published: June 2024

En Ecuador, de las 13.200 personas detenidas en el 2021 por tráfico de drogas, el 16% fueron mujeres. Este incremento de casos obedece a la pandemia por COVID-19, que fue un detonante para el tráfico de drogas. En especial, mujeres cis y mujeres trans, quienes se quedaron sin trabajo y encontraron en el narcotráfico una salida alternativa a su situación económica.
El presente artículo analiza los delitos por narcotráfico de mujeres cis y mujeres trans en Ecuador, con una perspectiva de género. Este estudio se basó en una revisión documental a nivel nacional, en donde se evidenció que, en su mayoría, los casos por delito de narcotráfico ocurren en región Costa, con mayor más mujeres cis que mujeres trans como autoras. Las causas por estos delitos son principalmente por necesidades económicas o debido a relaciones de pareja.
Al momento de investigar o juzgar, no se evidencia una perspectiva de género ya que no existen leyes que protejan a las mujeres trans y a toda la diversidad sexual del Ecuador. Este artículo recalca la necesidad de establecer políticas publicas y leyes que protejan los derechos humanos de mujeres cis y especialmente de mujeres trans y demás grupos con diferente orientación sexual.
Analysis of Illocutionary Act in A Quite Place Movie
Authors: Handayani Fitra , Martisa Ela
Published: June 2024

This research aims to describe the use of illocutionary acts in the film A Quite Place. This study used a descriptive qualitative method. This research uses Searle's theory to find the verbal and nonverbal utterances of all the characters included in the illocutionary act theory. Data collection is carried out by downloading, reading, watching, and classifying. The data analysis technique is to present, describe, interpret, and conclude the results of the analysis. Based on the theories provided, the data is analyzed one by one to determine the context and type of illocutionary act used. The results of the research show that there are four types of illocutionary acts used by all the characters in the film A Quiet Place 2018. The instructions present the dominant frequencies of the five types of illocutionary acts. There are six that contain directive actions. The assertive one has four data. Expressive has four data, the lowest frequency of illocutionary acts is commissive, there are two data. This type of declaration was not found in this study. The data most often found in this film is directive with six data and the least is commissive with two data. Based on the explanation above, it can be concluded that the problems that occurred in this research have been answered so that the research objective has been found and explained clearly, namely how illocutionary acts are used in the film A Quite Place using Searle's theory.
Musculoskeletal spine modeling in large patient cohorts: how morphological individualization affects lumbar load estimation
Authors: Lerchl Tanja , Nispel Kati , Bodden Jannis , Sekuboyina Anjany , El Husseini Malek , Fritzsche Christian , Senner Veit , Kirschke Jan S.
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Achieving an adequate level of detail is a crucial part of any modeling process. Thus, oversimplification of complex systems can lead to overestimation, underestimation, and general bias of effects, while elaborate models run the risk of losing validity due to the uncontrolled interaction of multiple influencing factors and error propagation.

Methods: We used a validated pipeline for the automated generation of multi-body models of the trunk to create 279 models based on CT data from 93 patients to investigate how different degrees of individualization affect the observed effects of different morphological characteristics on lumbar loads. Specifically, individual parameters related to spinal morphology (thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), and torso height (TH)), as well as torso weight (TW) and distribution, were fully or partly considered in the respective models according to their degree of individualization, and the effect strengths of these parameters on spinal loading were compared between semi- and highly individualized models. T-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (T-SNE) analysis was performed for overarching pattern recognition and multiple regression analyses to evaluate changes in occurring effects and significance.

Results: We were able to identify significant effects (p < 0.05) of various morphological parameters on lumbar loads in models with different degrees of individualization. Torso weight and lumbar lordosis showed the strongest effects on compression (β ≈ 0.9) and anterior–posterior shear forces (β ≈ 0.7), respectively. We could further show that the effect strength of individual parameters tended to decrease if more individual characteristics were included in the models.

Discussion: The induced variability due to model individualization could only partly be explained by simple morphological parameters. Our study shows that model simplification can lead to an emphasis on individual effects, which needs to be critically assessed with regard to in vivo complexity. At the same time, we demonstrated that individualized models representing a population-based cohort are still able to identify relevant influences on spinal loading while considering a variety of influencing factors and their interactions.
Bridging the sim2real gap. Investigating deviations between experimental motion measurements and musculoskeletal simulation results—a systematic review
Authors: Wechsler Iris , Wolf Alexander , Shanbhag Julian , Leyendecker Sigrid , Eskofier Bjoern M. , Koelewijn Anne D. , Wartzack Sandro , Miehling Jörg
Published: June 2024

Musculoskeletal simulations can be used to estimate biomechanical variables like muscle forces and joint torques from non-invasive experimental data using inverse and forward methods. Inverse kinematics followed by inverse dynamics (ID) uses body motion and external force measurements to compute joint movements and the corresponding joint loads, respectively. ID leads to residual forces and torques (residuals) that are not physically realistic, because of measurement noise and modeling assumptions. Forward dynamic simulations (FD) are found by tracking experimental data. They do not generate residuals but will move away from experimental data to achieve this. Therefore, there is a gap between reality (the experimental measurements) and simulations in both approaches, the sim2real gap. To answer (patho-) physiological research questions, simulation results have to be accurate and reliable; the sim2real gap needs to be handled. Therefore, we reviewed methods to handle the sim2real gap in such musculoskeletal simulations. The review identifies, classifies and analyses existing methods that bridge the sim2real gap, including their strengths and limitations. Using a systematic approach, we conducted an electronic search in the databases Scopus, PubMed and Web of Science. We selected and included 85 relevant papers that were sorted into eight different solution clusters based on three aspects: how the sim2real gap is handled, the mathematical method used, and the parameters/variables of the simulations which were adjusted. Each cluster has a distinctive way of handling the sim2real gap with accompanying strengths and limitations. Ultimately, the method choice largely depends on various factors: available model, input parameters/variables, investigated movement and of course the underlying research aim. Researchers should be aware that the sim2real gap remains for both ID and FD approaches. However, we conclude that multimodal approaches tracking kinematic and dynamic measurements may be one possible solution to handle the sim2real gap as methods tracking multimodal measurements (some combination of sensor position/orientation or EMG measurements), consistently lead to better tracking performances. Initial analyses show that motion analysis performance can be enhanced by using multimodal measurements as different sensor technologies can compensate each other’s weaknesses.
Cell identity dynamics and insight into insulin secretagogues when employing stem cell-derived islets for disease modeling
Authors: Wang Chencheng , Abadpour Shadab , Aizenshtadt Aleksandra , Dalmao-Fernandez Andrea , Høyem Merete , Wilhelmsen Ingrid , Stokowiec Justyna , Olsen Petter Angell , Krauss Stefan , Chera Simona , Ghila Luiza , Ræder Helge , Scholz Hanne
Published: June 2024

Stem cell-derived islets (SC-islets) are not only an unlimited source for cell-based therapy of type 1 diabetes but have also emerged as an attractive material for modeling diabetes and conducting screening for treatment options. Prior to SC-islets becoming the established standard for disease modeling and drug development, it is essential to understand their response to various nutrient sources in vitro. This study demonstrates an enhanced efficiency of pancreatic endocrine cell differentiation through the incorporation of WNT signaling inhibition following the definitive endoderm stage. We have identified a tri-hormonal cell population within SC-islets, which undergoes reduction concurrent with the emergence of elevated numbers of glucagon-positive cells during extended in vitro culture. Over a 6-week period of in vitro culture, the SC-islets consistently demonstrated robust insulin secretion in response to glucose stimulation. Moreover, they manifested diverse reactivity patterns when exposed to distinct nutrient sources and exhibited deviant glycolytic metabolic characteristics in comparison to human primary islets. Although the SC-islets demonstrated an aberrant glucose metabolism trafficking, the evaluation of a potential antidiabetic drug, pyruvate kinase agonist known as TEPP46, significantly improved in vitro insulin secretion of SC-islets. Overall, this study provided cell identity dynamics investigation of SC-islets during prolonged culturing in vitro, and insights into insulin secretagogues. Associated advantages and limitations were discussed when employing SC-islets for disease modeling.
Effect of cement volume on biomechanical response of a spine segment treated with a PEEK polymer implant: a finite element comparative study with vertebroplasty
Authors: Vienney Cécile , Hambli Ridha , De Leacy Reade , Cornelis François H.
Published: June 2024

In the current study, a 3D finite element study was performed to investigate the biomechanical response of an osteoporotic spine segment treated with a novel transpedicular implant (V-STRUT©, Hyprevention, France) made of PEEK (polyetheretherketone) material combined with either injections of 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 cc of cement. The objective was to assess numerically the biomechanical performance of the implant in combination with different doses of the injected bone cement and to compare its performance with the gold standard vertebroplasty (VP) technique. A female (69 yo) was selected and a 3D finite element model of an osteoporotic spine segment was built based on a Computed Tomography (CT) scan performed from T12 to L2 with corresponding intervertebral discs and ligaments. A heterogeneous distribution of bone material properties was assigned to the bone using grey scale levels. Bilateral ellipsoid geometries of the inserted cement were retained for the V-STRUT and VP models based on experimental observation performed on different patients treated with the V-STRUT device. The current study demonstrated an optimal dose of 4 cc of bilaterally injected cement for the V-STRUT and VP techniques to restore the treated segment and confirmed that the V-STRUT device in combination with bone cement is superior to VP alone in establishing the normal stiffness and in reducing the applied stress to the immediately adjacent vertebral levels.
Time-resolved cell-to-cell heterogeneity of Listeria innocua after nisin exposure
Authors: Fante Niklas , Desiderato Christian K. , Riedel Christian U. , Grünberger Alexander
Published: June 2024

The use of bacteriocins is a promising approach for addressing the immense threat of food-borne and drug-resistant pathogens. In recent years screening platforms for novel bacteriocins using whole-cell biosensors have been established. During screening cell-to-cell heterogeneity is currently neglected but might play a crucial role in signal development of the whole-cell biosensor after bacteriocin exposure. In this study, we explored the temporal dynamics of the signal heterogeneity of the biosensor Listeria innocua LMG2785/pNZpHin2Lm after nisin exposure using microfluidic single-cell analysis. The results provided novel and detailed insights into the dynamics of cell-to-cell heterogeneity in L. innocua LMG2785/pNZpHin2Lm at different nisin concentrations with a high spatio-temporal resolution. Furthermore, the formation of subpopulations during bacteriocin exposure was observed. In-depth single-cell tracking even revealed the regeneration of disrupted cells and recovery of pH homeostasis in rare instances. These findings are highly important for the future design and execution of bacteriocin assays and for the interpretation of fluorescence signal development at the population level after exposure to different concentrations of bacteriocins (here, nisin), as well as for obtaining deeper insights into single-cell persistence strategies to quantify the efficacy and efficiency of novel bacteriocins.
Genetically engineered electrospinning contributes to spinal cord injury repair by regulating the immune microenvironment
Authors: Sun Yang , Wu Jie , Zhou Liang , Wang Wei , Wang Haibo , Sun Shaosong , Xu Yichang , Zhang Lichen , Jiang Xinzhao , Zhu Guoqing , Xi Kun , Gu Yong , Chen Liang
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is associated with microenvironment imbalance, thereby resulting in poor regeneration and recovery of the spinal cord. Gene therapy can be used to balance the inflammatory response, however target genes cannot exist in localized injured areas.

Methods: A genetically engineered electrospun scaffold (GEES) to achieve long-term immunoregulation and nerve repair was constructed. By combining the microfluidic and electrospinning techniques, interleukin-10 plasmid (pIL10) was loaded into lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) (pIL10-LNP), which was encapsulated to the nerve growth factor (NGF). Immunofluorescence staining, qRT-PCR, ELISA, flow cytometry, and other tests were employed to comprehensively assess the role of GEES in modulating macrophage polarization and facilitating neural repair.

Results: The results showed that the scaffold released >70% of the pIL10-LNP within 10 d and continued slow release within 30 d. In vitro cell experiments have demonstrated that GEES effectively stimulates macrophages to secrete anti-inflammatory cytokines and facilitates the differentiation of neural stem cells into neuronal cells. In rat T9 SCI model, the GEES significantly inhibited the inflammatory response in the acute and chronic phases of SCI by transfecting local tissues with slow-release pIL10-LNP to promote the release of the anti-inflammatory factor IL10, thereby creating a favorable microenvironment. With the addition of NGF, the repair and regeneration of nerve tissues was effectively promoted, and the post-SCI motor function of rats improved.

Discussion: GEES can regulate post-SCI immune responses through continuous and effective gene delivery, providing a new strategy for the construction of electrospun scaffolds for nerve repair in gene therapy.
The multifaceted role of c-di-AMP signaling in the regulation of Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide structure and function
Authors: Ghods Shirin , Muszyński Artur , Yang Hyojik , Seelan Ratnam S. , Mohammadi Asal , Hilson Jacob S. , Keiser Griffin , Nichols Frank C. , Azadi Parastoo , Ernst Robert K. , Moradali Fata
Published: June 2024

Background

This study unveils the intricate functional association between cyclic di-3’,5’-adenylic acid (c-di-AMP) signaling, cellular bioenergetics, and the regulation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) profile in Porphyromonas gingivalis, a Gram-negative obligate anaerobe considered as a keystone pathogen involved in the pathogenesis of chronic periodontitis. Previous research has identified variations in P. gingivalis LPS profile as a major virulence factor, yet the underlying mechanism of its modulation has remained elusive.

Methods

We employed a comprehensive methodological approach, combining two mutants exhibiting varying levels of c-di-AMP compared to the wild type, alongside an optimized analytical methodology that combines conventional mass spectrometry techniques with a novel approach known as FLATn.

Results

We demonstrate that c-di-AMP acts as a metabolic nexus, connecting bioenergetic status to nuanced shifts in fatty acid and glycosyl profiles within P. gingivalis LPS. Notably, the predicted regulator gene cdaR, serving as a potent regulator of c-di-AMP synthesis, was found essential for producing N-acetylgalactosamine and an unidentified glycolipid class associated with the LPS profile.

Conclusion

The multifaceted roles of c-di-AMP in bacterial physiology are underscored, emphasizing its significance in orchestrating adaptive responses to stimuli. Furthermore, our findings illuminate the significance of LPS variations and c-di-AMP signaling in determining the biological activities and immunostimulatory potential of P. gingivalis LPS, promoting a pathoadaptive strategy. The study expands the understanding of c-di-AMP pathways in Gram-negative species, laying a foundation for future investigations into the mechanisms governing variations in LPS structure at the molecular level and their implications for host-pathogen interactions.
Efficacy of climate forcings in transient CMIP6 simulations
Authors: Myhre Gunnar , Byrom Rachael E. , Andrews Timothy , Forster Piers M. , Smith Christopher J.
Published: June 2024

For effective radiative forcing (ERF) to be an ideal metric for comparing the strength of different climate drivers (such as CO2 and aerosols), the ratio of radiative forcing to global-mean temperature change must be the same for each driver. Typically, this ratio is divided by the same ratio for CO2 and termed efficacy. Previously it has been shown that efficacy is close to unity in abrupt perturbation experiments for a range of climate drivers, but efficacy with respect to CO2 has not been investigated in transient realistic simulations. Here, we analyse transient simulations from CMIP6 experiments and show comparable results between transient and abrupt perturbation experiments. We demonstrate that aerosol efficacy is not significantly different from unity, however inter-model differences in aerosol experiments are notably large.
Experimenting with D-Wave quantum annealers on prime factorization problems
Authors: Ding Jingwen , Spallitta Giuseppe , Sebastiani Roberto
Published: June 2024

This paper builds on top of a paper we have published very recently, in which we have proposed a novel approach to prime factorization (PF) by quantum annealing, where 8, 219, 999 = 32, 749 × 251 was the highest prime product we were able to factorize—which, to the best of our knowledge is the largest number which was ever factorized by means of a quantum device. The series of annealing experiments which led us to these results, however, did not follow a straight-line path; rather, they involved a convoluted trial-and-error process, full of failed or partially-failed attempts and backtracks, which only in the end drove us to find the successful annealing strategies. In this paper, we delve into the reasoning behind our experimental decisions and provide an account of some of the attempts we have taken before conceiving the final strategies that allowed us to achieve the results. This involves also a bunch of ideas, techniques, and strategies we investigated which, although turned out to be inferior wrt. those we adopted in the end, may instead provide insights to a more-specialized audience of D-Wave users and practitioners. In particular, we show the following insights: (i) different initialization techniques affect performances, among which flux biases are effective when targeting locally-structured embeddings; (ii) chain strengths have a lower impact in locally-structured embeddings compared to problem relying on global embeddings; (iii) there is a trade-off between broken chain and excited CFAs, suggesting an incremental annealing offset remedy approach based on the modules instead of single qubits. Thus, by sharing the details of our experiences, we aim to provide insights into the evolving landscape of quantum annealing, and help people access and effectively use D-Wave quantum annealers.
Left ventricular structure and function following renal sympathetic denervation in patients with HFpEF: an echocardiographic 9-year long-term follow-up
Authors: Vogt Alexander , Plehn Alexander , Atti Carlo , Nussbaum Michael , Tongers Jörn , Sedding Daniel , Dutzmann Jochen
Published: June 2024

Background

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for cardiac remodeling and left ventricular hypertrophy, increasing cardiovascular risk and leading to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Since renal sympathetic denervation (RDN) reduces blood pressure in the long term, we aimed to investigate the long-term effect of RDN in patients with HFpEF in the present analysis.

Methods

Patients previously enrolled in a local RDN registry who underwent high-frequency RDN with the use of the Symplicity Flex® renal denervation system between 2011 and 2014 were followed up. The patients were assessed by 24-h ambulatory blood pressure measurement, transthoracic echocardiography, and laboratory tests. We used the echocardiographic and biomarker criteria of the Heart Failure Association (HFA)-PEFF (Pre-test assessment, Echocardiography and Natriuretic Peptide Score, Funkctional testing, and Final aetiology) score to identify patients with HFpEF.

Results

Echocardiographic assessment was available for 70 patients at a 9-year long-term follow-up. Of these patients, 21 had HFpEF according to the HFA-PEFF score. We found a significant reduction of the HFA-PEFF score from 5.48 ± 0.51 points at baseline to 4.33 ± 1.53 points at the 9-year follow-up (P < 0.01). This decrease was due to a greater reduction in morphological and biomarker subcategories [from 1.95 ± 0.22 to 1.43 ± 0.51 points (P < 0.01) and from 1.52 ± 0.52 to 0.90 ± 0.63 points (P < 0.01), respectively] than in the functional one. Morphologically, there was a reduction in left ventricular hypertrophy and left atrial dilation.

Conclusions

The present analysis suggests that RDN may lead to a regression of the extent of HFpEF beyond a reduction in blood pressure and thus possibly contribute to an improvement in prognosis. More detailed information will be provided by ongoing randomized sham-controlled trials.
Turkish earthquake death tolls: lessons from downward counterfactual analysis and informal construction
Authors: Woo G. , Gargiulo M. V. , Napolitano F. , Amoroso O. , Russo R. , Capuano P.
Published: June 2024

Earthquake death tolls are a basic statistical measure of the capability of a country to manage seismic risk. The extremely high Turkish death toll of 50,000 from the Kahramanmaraş earthquake doublet of 6 February 2023 is the product of a cascade of detrimental factors. These need to be explained if lessons from this disaster are to be learned. This is the purpose and objective of this paper, which is a contribution to the interdisciplinary Frontiers research topic on integrated perspectives on the 2023 Turkey and Syria earthquakes: advancing understanding and preparedness across earth sciences, engineering and public health. This paper covers these three disciplines by focusing on casualties, and identifying crucial aspects of earth sciences and engineering which contributed to the high death toll. First, there was a surprising combination of multiple fault segment ruptures, and a high level of ground motion relative to the risk-based Turkish code, indicative of the under-representation of the M7.5+ earthquake doublet event in the national probabilistic seismic hazard model. This combination of fault segment ruptures was missing from all seismic source models. Furthermore, the capability of buildings to cope with strong ground motion was much reduced by informal construction methods, which eroded the margin of safety needed to avoid building collapse. The extent of building code non-compliance was widely underestimated in seismic risk models. Non-compliance is often hard to identify, but construction amnesties make non-compliance more transparent and trackable. The disastrous outcome of the Kahramanmaraş earthquake doublet of 6 February 2023 has drawn global attention to systemic building code non-compliance, and the open official acceptance of informal housing. To demonstrate that this key systemic risk is far from being just a Turkish problem, notably in Istanbul, the challenge of Italian informal housing is highlighted within the context of international building code non-compliance.
Unraveling the role of dextral faults in the formation of pull-apart basin structures and their implications on the genesis of ophiolites and pluto-volcanics
Authors: MohammadiNia Ali , Rashidi Ahmad , Shafieibafti Shahram , Mousavi Seyed Morteza , Nemati Majid , Kianimehr Hossein , Ezati Maryam , Derakhshani Reza
Published: June 2024

Rhombic structures have been observed in the Qom-Zefreh-Nayin-Dehsheir-Baft region, specifically along the direction of the dextral faults, which have caused significant changes in strike length. This study investigates the geological features and fault interactions in the region through the examination of aerial images, fault-lithology correlations, petrology, crustal thickness, and seismic studies. The analysis of aerial photos and geological correlations revealed the presence of ophiolites and pluto-volcanics associated with faults and rhombic structures. By conducting field geology and combining various geological studies, a pull-apart basin was identified in the area, contributing to the formation of three rhombic structures. This basin played a crucial role in the genesis of the region’s ophiolites and pluto-volcanics. The research suggests that the initial tensional stress leading to the pull-apart basin was caused by the right step of a dextral fault within the Urumieh-Dokhtar magmatic arc. This fault formation occurred due to the oblique Arabian subduction towards the Iranian plateau. During the Zagros orogeny, the stretched area persisted, leading to the formation of oceanic crust in this location. The subduction angle changes from subduction to super-subduction, resulting in the classification of the region into two types: C and E genes. Different types of magma, including alkaline, subalkaline, shoshonite, calcalkaline, and adakitic, were identified in this region. The study highlights the significance of tholeiitic arcs, abyssal features, crust thickness, and seismicity in understanding oblique diagonal subduction models and tensional pull-apart basins, which are crucial in the transition from subduction to super-subduction. This research offers valuable insights into the geological complexities of the region and opens up opportunities for further exploration of similar models.
Prognostic models for mucinous and non-specific adeno cholangiocarcinoma: a population-based retrospective study
Authors: Azhar Muhammad Salman , Zhang Zi-jian , Liu Zhong-tao , Huang Yun-peng , Wang Yong-xiang , Zhou Hui , Xiong Li , Wen Yu , Zou Heng
Published: June 2024

Background

Clinically, the diagnosis and treatment of cholangiocarcinoma are generally different according to the location of occurrence, and the studies rarely consider the differences between different pathological types. Cholangiocarcinomas in large- and middle-sized intrahepatic bile ducts are mostly mucinous, while in small sized bile duct are not; mucinous extrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas are also more common than mucinous intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. However, it is unclear whether these pathological type differences are related to the prognosis.

Methods

Data of total 22509 patients was analyzed from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program database out of which 22299 patients were diagnosed with common adeno cholangiocarcinoma while 210 were diagnosed with mucinous cholangiocarcinoma. Based on the propensity score matching (PSM) analysis, between these two groups’ clinical, demographic, and therapeutic features were contrasted. The data were analyzed using Cox and LASSO regression analysis and Kaplan-Meier survival curves. Ultimately, overall survival (OS) and cancer specific survival (CSS) related prognostic models were established and validated in test and external datasets and nomograms were created to forecast these patients’ prognosis.

Results

There was no difference in prognosis between mucinous cholangiocarcinoma and adeno cholangiocarcinoma. Therefore, we constructed prognostic model and nomogram that can be used for mucinous and adeno cholangiocarcinoma at the same time. By comparing the 9 independent key characteristics i.e. Age, tumor size, the number of primary tumors, AJCC stage, Grade, lymph node status, metastasis, surgery and chemotherapy, risk scores were calculated for each individual. By integrating these two pathological types in OS and CSS prognostic models, effective prognosis prediction results could be achieved in multiple datasets (OS: AUC 0.70–0.87; CSS: AUC 0.74–0.89).

Conclusion

Age, tumor size, the number of primary tumors, AJCC stage, Grade, lymph node status, metastasis, surgery and chemotherapy are the independent prognostic factors in OS or CSS of the patients with mucinous and ordinary cholangiocarcinoma. Nomogram that can be used for mucinous and adeno cholangiocarcinoma at the same time is of significance in clinical practice and management of cholangiocarcinoma.
Eight-day fasting modulates serum kynurenines in healthy men at rest and after exercise
Authors: Juhas Ulana , Reczkowicz Joanna , Kortas Jakub Antoni , Żychowska Małgorzata , Pilis Karol , Ziemann Ewa , Cytrych Inga , Antosiewicz Jędrzej , Borkowska Andżelika
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Tryptophan’s (Trp) metabolites are undervalued markers of human health. Their serum concentrations are modified by physical exercise and other factors, among which fasting has a well-documented role. Although this mechanism is hardly explored, thus, the study aimed to determine the effect of the 8-day fasting period and the impact of such a procedure on a single bout of an endurance exercise on the concentration of kynurenine pathway (KP) metabolites.

Methods

10 participants fasted for 8 days, and 10 as a control group participated in the study. The exercise was performed at baseline after an overnight fast and repeated post 8 days.

Results

The 8 days of fasting increased the resting 3-hydroxy-L-kynurenine (3HK), picolinic acid (PA), kynurenic acid (KYNA), and xanthurenic acid (XA) serum concentration. Also elevated phenylalanine (Phe) and tyrosine (Tyr) levels were recorded, suggesting expanded proteolysis of muscle proteins. In turn, physical activity caused a decrease in the concentration of 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (3HAA) and PA after fasting. The obtained results were not recorded in controls.

Conclusion

The results of this study show that the health-promoting effects of fasting are associated with changes in the KYN pathway. The increase in the concentration of PA and XA metabolites following fasting is capable of penetrating the blood-brain barrier, and KYNA, which initiates several beneficial changes, supports this assumption.
The impact of new digital infrastructure on green total factor productivity
Authors: Wang Qunli , Li Guoying , Du Meng , Zhou Xiangjun , Liang Jinfeng
Published: June 2024

As a new engine driving economic development, new digital infrastructure plays a significant role in enhancing green total factor productivity. Based on 2011–2020 panel data covering 30 Chinese provinces, this study empirically investigates the effects and mechanisms of new digital infrastructure on green total factor productivity. The results show that new digital infrastructure can significantly improve regional green total factor productivity, and this conclusion remains valid after a series of robustness tests and regressions of instrumental variables. Further mechanism research shows that new digital infrastructure indirectly promotes the growth of green total factor productivity by improving capital misallocation and driving technological innovation, while there is no mediating mechanism of labor misallocation. In addition, there is significant heterogeneity in the impact of new digital infrastructure on green total factor productivity. Especially during periods of high government attention, in the eastern regions, and in areas with higher levels of human capital, the positive incentive effect of new digital infrastructure is more significant. This study provides empirical evidence and policy references for promoting and amplifying the green growth effects of new digital infrastructure.
Chemical sand production control: a review of materials, methods and characterization
Authors: Xu Zhenqiang , Shen Kaixiang , Zhou Jiawei , Huang Qisheng , Liu Pingli , Du Juan , Wu Jia
Published: June 2024

Sand production is one of the challenges facing the oil industry. This paper reviews the latest research advances in chemical sand control and aims to provide a reference for related researchers. Firstly, the commonly used chemical sand control materials are introduced. Second, recent advances in chemical sand control are reviewed, including materials, methods, and processes. Third, laboratory methods for sand control research are presented. Finally, the gaps and challenges of chemical sand control materials are pointed out, and possible future directions for chemical sand control methods are envisioned.
Revealing the genetic complexity of hypothyroidism: integrating complementary association methods
Authors: Zucker Roei , Kovalerchik Michael , Stern Amos , Kaufman Hadasa , Linial Michal
Published: June 2024

Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder whose prevalence increases with age. The disease manifests itself when the thyroid gland fails to produce sufficient thyroid hormones. The disorder includes cases of congenital hypothyroidism (CH), but most cases exhibit hormonal feedback dysregulation and destruction of the thyroid gland by autoantibodies. In this study, we sought to identify causal genes for hypothyroidism in large populations. The study used the UK-Biobank (UKB) database, reporting on 13,687 cases of European ancestry. We used GWAS compilation from Open Targets (OT) and tuned protocols focusing on genes and coding regions, along with complementary association methods of PWAS (proteome-based) and TWAS (transcriptome-based). Comparing summary statistics from numerous GWAS revealed a limited number of variants associated with thyroid development. The proteome-wide association study method identified 77 statistically significant genes, half of which are located within the Chr6-MHC locus and are enriched with autoimmunity-related genes. While coding GWAS and PWAS highlighted the centrality of immune-related genes, OT and transcriptome-wide association study mostly identified genes involved in thyroid developmental programs. We used independent populations from Finland (FinnGen) and the Taiwan cohort to validate the PWAS results. The higher prevalence in females relative to males is substantiated as the polygenic risk score prediction of hypothyroidism relied mostly from the female group genetics. Comparing results from OT, TWAS, and PWAS revealed the complementary facets of hypothyroidism’s etiology. This study underscores the significance of synthesizing gene-phenotype association methods for this common, intricate disease. We propose that the integration of established association methods enhances interpretability and clinical utility.