bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
NLRP inflammasomes in health and disease
Authors: Xu Zhihao , Kombe Kombe Arnaud John , Deng Shasha , Zhang Hongliang , Wu Songquan , Ruan Jianbin , Zhou Ying , Jin Tengchuan 
Published: April 2024

AbstractNLRP inflammasomes are a group of cytosolic multiprotein oligomer pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) involved in the recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) produced by infected cells. They regulate innate immunity by triggering a protective inflammatory response. However, despite their protective role, aberrant NLPR inflammasome activation and gain-of-function mutations in NLRP sensor proteins are involved in occurrence and enhancement of non-communicating autoimmune, auto-inflammatory, and neurodegenerative diseases. In the last few years, significant advances have been achieved in the understanding of the NLRP inflammasome physiological functions and their molecular mechanisms of activation, as well as therapeutics that target NLRP inflammasome activity in inflammatory diseases. Here, we provide the latest research progress on NLRP inflammasomes, including NLRP1, CARD8, NLRP3, NLRP6, NLRP7, NLRP2, NLRP9, NLRP10, and NLRP12 regarding their structural and assembling features, signaling transduction and molecular activation mechanisms. Importantly, we highlight the mechanisms associated with NLRP inflammasome dysregulation involved in numerous human auto-inflammatory, autoimmune, and neurodegenerative diseases. Overall, we summarize the latest discoveries in NLRP biology, their forming inflammasomes, and their role in health and diseases, and provide therapeutic strategies and perspectives for future studies about NLRP inflammasomes.
Surface geometry inversion of transient electromagnetic data
Authors: Lu Xushan , Farquharson Colin G. , Lelièvre Peter 
Published: April 2024

We investigate an emerging method called surface geometry inversion (SGI) for the inversion of transient electromagnetic (TEM) data. Conventional minimum-structure inversion methods parameterize the earth model with many mesh cells within which the physical properties are constant, and construct a physical property model that is usually smoothly varying as well as fits the observations. With these smooth models, it is difficult to extract the interface between different geologic units, and it can be especially difficult to target drillholes for thin, plate-like targets, which are frequently encountered in mineral exploration. Our SGI parameterizes the model in terms of the coordinates of the nodes (vertices) used to connect together the surfaces that define the geologic interfaces. The algorithm then inverts for the locations of these nodes, which directly provides geometric information about the target. This can be more useful than a fuzzy image of conductivity, especially for an exploration project. A genetic algorithm (GA) is used to solve the nonlinear, overdetermined optimization problem. We use a finite-element solver to solve the TEM forward-modeling problem of each candidate model in the GA population. Because forward modeling is independent for each model, we implement a hybrid message passing interface (MPI) + OpenMP parallel method to improve computational efficiency. We investigate a new parameterization method specifically designed for thin, plate-like structures, which is more efficient and can effectively avoid self-intersection. We first illustrate the effectiveness of our SGI algorithm on a synthetic block model before testing the new parameterization method on a synthetic thin plate model. Finally, we apply our SGI to a real data set collected for the exploration of thin graphitic faults in a uranium exploration project in Canada. The constructed model from our SGI corresponds well with the drilling data.
Medullary Thyroid Cancer: Single Institute Experience Over 3 Decades and Risk Factors for Recurrence
Authors: Abou Azar Sara , Tobias Joseph , Applewhite Megan , Angelos Peter , Keutgen Xavier M 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Context
Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) has a historic recurrence rate up to 50%, and surgery remains the only cure.

Objective
This study aims to assess factors related to recurrence and metastatic spread in MTC.

Methods
Retrospective chart review was performed from 1990 to 2023 at a single specialized tertiary care referral center. Descriptive analysis and regression models were used for analysis. Sixty-eight patients with MTC, who underwent surgery, were included and the main outcome measure was recurrence.

Results
Mean age at diagnosis was 54.9 years (42.2-64.1), 65% (n = 44) females. Lymph node and distant metastases were found in 24% (n = 16) and 4% (n = 3), respectively. RET mutations were present in 52% (n = 35): MTC risk levels were highest 6%, high 7%, and moderate 39%. Mean tumor size was 1.9 cm (1.2-3.2) and mean preoperative calcitonin was 504.4 pg/mL (133.2-1833.8). Total thyroidectomy (TT) was performed in 10 patients, TT + central neck dissection (CND) in 28, and TT + CND + lateral neck dissection (LND) in 25. On final pathology, 40% had positive central nodes and 25% had positive lateral nodes. Recurrence was 22%, median follow-up 4.7 years (1.2-28.0). Male gender (hazard ratio [HR] 5.81, P = .021), positive lateral neck nodes (HR 8.10, P = .011), and high/highest MTC risk level RET mutations (HR 8.66, P = .004) were significantly associated with recurrence. Preoperative calcitonin &gt;2175 pg/mL was a strong predictor for distant metastasis (area under the curve [AUC] 0.893) and a good predictor for lateral neck disease (AUC 0.706). Extent of surgery was not significantly associated with recurrence (P = .634).

Conclusion
One of 4 patients undergoing surgery for MTC will recur. Risk factors associated with recurrence are male gender, lateral lymph node metastasis, and high/highest MTC risk level mutations, but not necessarily surgery type. Preoperative calcitonin &gt;2175 pg/mL is suggestive of advanced disease and should prompt further evaluation.
Bilateral Deep Brain Stimulation of the Ventral Intermediate Nucleus of the Thalamus Improves Objective Acoustic Measures of Essential Vocal Tremor
Authors: Patel Rita , Burroughs Leah , Higgins Alexis , Zauber S. Elizabeth , Isbaine Faical , Schneider Dylan , Hohman Ryane , Gupta Kunal 
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:
Deep brain stimulation of the ventral intermediate nucleus of the thalamus (VIM-DBS) is an established treatment for medically refractory essential tremor. However, the effect of VIM-DBS on vocal tremor remains poorly understood, with results varying by method of vocal tremor assessment and stimulation laterality. This single-center study measures the effect of bilateral VIM-DBS on essential vocal tremor using blinded objective acoustic voice analysis.

METHODS:
Ten patients with consecutive essential tremor with comorbid vocal tremor receiving bilateral VIM-DBS underwent voice testing before and after implantation of DBS in this prospective cohort study. Objective acoustic measures were extracted from the middle one second of steady-state phonation including cepstral peak prominence, signal-to-noise ratio, percentage voicing, tremor rate, extent of fundamental frequency modulation, and extent of intensity modulation. DBS surgery was performed awake with microelectrode recording and intraoperative testing. Postoperative voice testing was performed after stable programming.

RESULTS:
Patients included 6 female and 4 male, with a mean age of 67 ± 6.7 years. The VIM was targeted with the following coordinates relative to the mid-anterior commissure:posterior commissure point: 13.2 ± 0.6 mm lateral, 6.2 ± 0.7 mm posterior, and 0.0 mm below. Mean programming parameters were amplitude 1.72.0 ± 0.6 mA, pulse width 63.0 ± 12.7 µs, and rate 130.6 ± 0.0 Hz. VIM-DBS significantly improved tremor rate from 4.43 ± 0.8 Hz to 3.2 ± 0.8 Hz (P = .001) CI (0.546, 1.895), jitter from 1 ± 0.94 to 0.53 ± 0.219 (P = .02) CI (−0.124, 1.038), cepstral peak prominence from 13.6 ± 3.9 to 18.8 ± 2.9 (P = .016) CI (−4.100, −0.235), signal-to-noise ratio from 15.7 ± 3.9 to 18.5 ± 3.7 (P = .02) CI (−5.598, −0.037), and articulation rate from 0.77 ± 0.2 to 0.82 ± .14 (P = .04) CI (−0.097, 0.008). There were no major complications in this series.

CONCLUSION:
Objective acoustic voice analyses suggest that bilateral VIM-DBS effectively reduces vocal tremor rate and improves voicing. Further studies using objective acoustic analyses and laryngeal imaging may help refine surgical and stimulation techniques and evaluate the effect of laterality on vocal tremor.
Study on the Anti-Takeover Defence Strategies Used by the Corporates at the Time of Mergers & Acquisitions
Authors: Mishra Suman , Thenissery Priya , N Punith Raj , R Abhishek 
Published: April 2024

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) have become a common strategy for companies looking to grow and expand their operations. However, the potential benefits of M&A can also attract unwanted attention from potential acquirers, which can lead to hostile takeover attempts. To protect themselves from hostile takeovers, companies often implement anti-takeover defense strategies. Anti-takeover defense strategies refer to a range of defensive tactics that target companies can employ to deter or prevent hostile takeovers. These strategies can take various forms, including structural defenses, governance defenses, and financial defenses.
This research paper examines anti-takeover defense strategies in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) using secondary data sources. The paper provides an overview of the various types of anti-takeover defense strategies that are commonly used by companies, including structural, governance, and financial defenses. The paper also analyzes the various anti-takeover defense strategies adopted in protecting shareholder value and limiting competition. The regulatory frameworks governing anti-takeover defense strategies in different jurisdictions are also explored, including the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, and Japan.
The findings of this study indicate that the use of anti-takeover defense strategies can be effective in protecting shareholder value, but may also limit competition and potentially result in lower acquisition premiums. The paper concludes by discussing the implications of these findings for companies involved in M&A transactions, and the need to balance the protection of shareholder interests with the potential benefits of being an attractive target for acquisition.
Overall, this research provides a comprehensive analysis of the complex landscape of anti-takeover defense strategies in M&A transactions, based on secondary data sources. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of the role of anti-takeover defense strategies in M&A transactions and the considerations that must be taken into account by companies when implementing these strategies.
Uncovering Sophisticated Discrimination with the Help of Credence Goods Markups: Evidence from a Natural Field Experiment
Authors: Hall Jonathan , Kerschbamer Rudolf , Neururer Daniel , Skoog Eric 
Published: April 2024

Credence goods, such as repair and healthcare services, are characterized by profound information asymmetries between less-informed customers and better-informed expert sellers. These information asymmetries open the door for fraudulent behavior on the seller side. In a preregistered natural field experiment, we vary in one dimension the seller’s perception of whether the service is an ordinary or a credence good service and in the second dimension whether the customer is a member of a minority or a member of the majority. This allows us to measure the size of the induced credence goods markup and to address the question whether it interacts systematically with discrimination. We document the existence of a large credence goods markup, on average. Moreover, we find that members of the minority pay a sizeable discriminatory markup if the good is perceived as a credence good but not if it is perceived as an ordinary good. Our results show that sellers engage in sophisticated discrimination where informational asymmetries are used to hide discriminatory (fraudulent) behavior. With the help of an ex post survey, we derive a possible explanation for our results. This paper was accepted by Maria Claire Villeval, behavioral economics and decision analysis. Funding: Financial support was provided by the Austrian Science Fund [Special Research Area Grant SFB F63 and Grants P26901 and P27912]. Supplemental Material: The online appendices and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.02666 .
CRITICAL BONE DEFECT AFFECTING THE OUTCOME OF MANAGEMENT IN ANATOMICAL TYPE IV CHRONIC OSTEOMYELITIS
Authors: Tsang Shao-Ting J , Epstein Gadi , Ferreira Nando 
Published: April 2024

IntroductionThe Cierny and Mader classification assists with decision-making by stratifying host status and the pathoanatomy of the disease. However, the anatomical type IV represents a heterogenous group with regards to treatment requirements and outcomes. We propose that modification of the Cierny and Mader anatomical classification with an additional type V classifier (diffuse corticomedullary involvement with an associated critical bone defect) will allow more accurate stratification of patients and tailoring of treatment strategies.Materials & MethodsA retrospective review of 83 patients undergoing treatment for Cierny and Mader anatomical type IV osteomyelitis of the appendicular skeleton at a single centre was performed.ResultsRisk factors for the presence of a critical bone defect were female patients (OR 3.1 (95% CI 1.08–8.92)) and requirement for soft tissue reconstruction (OR 3.35 (95% CI 1.35–8.31)); osteomyelitis of the femur was negatively associated with the presence of a critical bone defect (OR 0.13 (95% CI 0.03–0.66)). There was no statistically significant risk of adverse outcomes (failure to eradicate infection or achieve bone union) associated with the presence of a critical-sized bone defect. The median time to bone union was ten months (95% CI 7.9–12.1 months). There was a statistically significant difference in the median time to bone union between cases with a critical bone defect (12.0 months (95% 10.2–13.7 months)) and those without (6.0 months (95% CI 4.8–7.1 months))ConclusionsThis study provided evidence to support the introduction of a new subgroup of the Cierny and Mader anatomical classification (Type V). Using a standardised approach to management, comparable early outcomes can be achieved in patients with Cierny and Mader anatomical type V osteomyelitis. However, to achieve a successful outcome, there is a requirement for additional bone and soft tissue reconstruction procedures with an associated increase in treatment time.
COMPARING THE OUTCOMES OF DIFFERENT EXTERNAL FIXATION TYPES FOR KNEE ARTHRODESIS FOLLOWING INFECTED TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Senan Rahul , Linkogel William , Marwan Yousef , Staniland Tim , Sharma Hemant 
Published: April 2024

IntroductionKnee arthrodesis is a useful limb salvage technique to maintain function in patients with complex and infected total knee arthroplasties (TKA). There are a number of commonly used external fixators, but no consensus on which of these are optimal.The aim of this study was to synthesise the current literature to guide clinical decision making and improve patient outcomes. We systematically review the literature to compare outcomes of external fixators in arthrodesis following infected TKA.Materials & MethodsA systematic review of the literature of primary research articles investigating the use of external fixators for knee arthrodesis after an infected TKA was conducted. Relevant articles were identified with a search strategy on online databases (EMBASE and Medline) and reviewed by two independent reviewers.Clinical outcome measures were independently extracted by two reviewers which included union rate, infection eradication rate, complication rate, time to fusion, and time in frame.ResultsCircular frames were more likely to result in union compared to biplanar (OR 1.40 p=0.456) and monoplanar frames (OR 2.28 p=0.018). Infection recurrence was least likely in those treated by circular frames when compared to monoplanar (OR 0.12 p=0.005) and biplanar external fixators (0.41 P=0.331). Complication rates were highest in the circular fixator group, followed by the monoplanar fixator group and biplanar fixator group at 34%, 31% and 11% respectively.ConclusionsAnalysis of the available literature suggests higher union and infection eradication rates with circular frames over the other two fixation methods despite a higher complication rate. There is a paucity in the literature and therefore, no firm conclusions can be drawn. Further research investigating the variations and biomechanical properties between different external fixation methods for knee arthrodesis is necessary. Further clarity in reporting and pooled data would be useful for future analysis.
Free-space quantum key distribution during daylight and at night
Authors: Cai Wen-Qi , Li Yang , Li Bo , Ren Ji-Gang , Liao Sheng-Kai , Cao Yuan , Zhang Liang , Yang Meng , Wu Jin-Cai , Li Yu-Huai , Liu Wei-Yue , Yin Juan , Wang Chao-Ze , Luo Wen-Bin , Jin Biao , Lv Chao-Lin , Li Hao , You Lixing , Shu Rong , Pan Ge-Sheng , Zhang Qiang , Liu Nai-Le , Wang Xiang-Bin , Wang Jian-Yu , Peng Cheng-Zhi , Pan Jian-Wei 
Published: April 2024

Current satellite-based quantum key distribution (QKD) is limited to
nighttime operations, and the reliance on microwave communication for
key distillation leads to significant delays, often spanning several
days. These challenges collectively hinder the establishment of a
practical global-scale quantum network. Here, by developing a 625-MHz
inherently robust decoy-state light source and daytime noise
suppression close to the Fourier transform limitation, we achieve QKD
covering all the 24 h of the day over a 20-km terrestrial free-space
channel, resulting in an average secure key rate of approximately
495 bps. Additionally, bidirectional laser communication is integrated
into the QKD transmitter and the ground station to enable real-time
key distillation, improving the timeliness from days to real time.
This comprehensive verification lays a solid foundation and paves the
way for all-day real-time QKD with quantum satellites.
Ultra-high NA graphene oxide flat lens on a fiber facet with near diffraction-limited focusing
Authors: Chen Xiaoke , Ma Lin , He Zuyuan , Cao Guiyuan , Lin Han , Jia Baohua 
Published: April 2024

The realization of a high numerical aperture (NA) fiber lens is critical for achieving high imaging resolution in endoscopes, enabling subwavelength operation in optical tweezers and high efficiency coupling between optical fibers and photonic chips. However, it remains challenging with conventional design and fabrication. Here we propose an ultrathin (400 nm) graphene oxide (GO) film lens fabricated in situ on a standard single-mode fiber facet using the femtosecond laser direct writing technique. An extremely high NA of 0.89 is achieved with a near diffraction-limited focal spot (FWHM=0.68λ), which is verified theoretically and experimentally. The diameter of the fabricated fiber GO lens is as small as 12 μm with no beam expansion structure. The proposed fiber GO lens is promising for applications such as super-resolution imaging, compact optical tweezers, medical endoscopes, and on-chip integration.
Multiplex analysis of post-Covid cardiorenal complications in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus according to the mobile diagnostic and treatment center (Diamobil)
Authors: Vikulova O. К. , Zheleznyakova A. V. , Serkov A. A. , Isakov M. A. , Vagapova G. R. , Valeeva F. V. , Trubicina N. P. , Melnikova O. G. , Aleksandrova V. K. , Smirnova N. B. , Egorova D. N. , Artemova E. V. , Sorokina K. V. , Shestakova M. V. , Mokrysheva N. G. , Dedov I. I. 
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND: Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) are at risk for a higher incidence and severity of COVID-19, as well as its adverse outcomes, including post-Covid syndrome.AIM: to assess the incidence of cardiorenal complications in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes (T1DM/T2DM) who have had COVID-19, and to analyze the structure and severity of disorders according to examination data at the Diamobil mobile medical diagnostic and treatment center.MATERIALS AND METHODS: a cohort of T1DM and T2DM patients examined in Diamobil (n=318), with a confirmed anamnesis of COVID-19 (n=236). The time interval between COVID-19 and the visit to Diamobil was 8.7/8.2 months for T1DM/T2DM. The parameters of the last visit before COVID-19 recorded in the Federal Register of Diabetes (FRD) were used as initial data.RESULTS: Clinical characteristics of patients with T1DM/T2DM: age — 49.2/64.5 years, duration of DM — 22/11 years, proportion of women — 64/73%, respectively. After analysis the data from visits before and after COVID-19 there weren’t statistically significant differences in HbA1c levels for both types of DM (before 9.0/8.3%; after 8.4/8.2%, respectively), there was the intensification of glucose lowering therapy (the proportion of patients with T2DM on 2 and 3 component therapy increased by 4.3% and 1.6%, the proportion of patients on insulin therapy by 16%). After COVID-19, there was a statistically significant decrease in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in T1DM from 88.1 to 62 ml/min/1.73 m2; with T2DM from 74.7 to 54.1 ml/min/1.73 m2. When assessing acute diabetic complications, there was an increase in the frequency of coma in T1DM by 1.5 times, severe hypoglycemia in T1DM by 3 times, and in T2DM by 1.7 times. Analysis of the frequency of cardiorenal complications before and after COVID-19 showed a total increase of 8.5% in T1DM, by 13.2% in T2DM, of which myocardial infarction, ischemic heart disease, and CHF increased in T1DM in the range from 1.5 to 5 times, with T2DM by 1.3 times, the frequency of CKD with T1DM by 1.5 times, with T2DM by 5.6 times.CONCLUSION: There was a decline of kidney filtration function (decrease in GFR) and an increase in the frequency of cardiovascular complications in both types of diabetes in post-Covid period while patients achieved a stable HbA1c levels by intensifying therapy during the COVID-19 infection. This fact reflects combined damage to the kidney and cardiovascular system as a part of the post-Covid syndrome and determines a key set of measures for the development of preventive strategies.
Numerical investigation of weaving machine heald shaft new design using composite material to improve its performance
Authors: Hassan Mohamed , Mostafa Ayman , Al-Oufy Affaf , El-Gholmy Sherwet 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The factors of increasing productivity, reducing the cost, and the quality improvement are the most important research concerns in weaving machinery. Increasing the effectiveness and productivity of production was achieved by increasing the operating time and efficiency of weaving looms. Thus, manufacturers of weaving equipment attempt to minimize factors that limit the production speed and production conditions. The heald frame is one of the most important parts of the weaving machine that causes vibrations and noise, which are important factors that influence the high-speed development of looms and decrease their performance. In this work, mechanical factors such as stresses and vibrations were studied for the weaving machine heald frame made from composite materials. The finite element models were constructed using the ABAQUS program for the traditional heald frame made from aluminum as well as for the heald frame made from composite materials. The models were simulated using the operating system conditions of constraints and of applied loads. The composite materials used are carbon fibers and glass fibers. The mode shapes of the models as well as the generated stresses were presented. The results showed a significant improvement in use of the composite materials that can reduce the frame vibration and withstand the generated stresses.