bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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

AbstractThis 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.
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

AbstractRheumatoid 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

AbstractDrought 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

AbstractBackgroundMusculoskeletal 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.MethodsA 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.ResultsEach 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.LimitationsWhile 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.ConclusionNutraceuticals 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

AbstractThe 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

AbstractA 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

AbstractFitness 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

AbstractPhilosophers 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

AbstractAgainst 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

AbstractWe 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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

AbstractFungal 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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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.