bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Psoriasiform dermatitis in a person of colour with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Seidel Paloma A. , Braun Stephan A. , Magnolo Nina 
Published: February 2024

AbstractA 43‐year‐old patient from Liberia presented with itching scaly plaques, impaired quality of life persisting for 9 months and intermittent joint pain in the knees. Personal and family history was unremarkable. Coexisting diagnoses included type 1 diabetes mellitus and liver cirrhosis due to chronic hepatitis B and D. The patient reported ongoing use of Tenofovir, Propranolol, Glargine and Aspart. Clinical examination showed disseminated brownish, partly confluent hyperkeratotic plaques distributed throughout the integument in a Fitzpatrick skin type V. A skin biopsy revealed histologically a psoriasiform dermatitis. Laboratory findings included lymphocytopenia and elevated liver values. Hepatitis B serology confirmed chronic hepatitis B. Considering the clinical and histopathological findings Psoriasis vulgaris was diagnosed and psoriatic arthritis was ruled out by a rheumatologist. After consulting with the hepatologist, systemic therapy with Apremilast was initiated. Despite an initial positive response, gastrointestinal side effects led to a switch to therapy with Tildrakizumab, with regular monitoring of transaminases and HBV DNA. Despite an initial positive treatment response, a secondary loss of efficacy occurred prompting a switch to Risankizumab. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory systemic disease significantly impacting quality of life, necessitating optimal long‐term management. In this case, therapy with Apremilast and biologic therapy targeting IL‐23 blockade, even with concurrent hepatitis B, was well tolerated and effective. However, the evidence on the safety of modern psoriasis therapies in known chronic infections remains limited. Noteworthy in this case report is the patient's dark skin type. Diagnosing inflammatory dermatoses in People of Colour is challenging due to less visible erythema and other clinical nuances, exacerbating the already poorer healthcare for People of Colour. This case aims to raise awareness about the need for increased representation of People of Colour in education, presentations and clinical trials to ensure better care for this patient population.
Physicochemical and sensory attributes of scones made from wheat–taro (Colocasia esculenta)–lentils (Lens culinaris) composite flour
Authors: Shongwe Tengetile N. , Kidane Solomon Worku , Shelembe Jermiah S. , Nkambule Thabile P. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe effect of blend proportion on the functional properties of wheat–taro–lentil composite flour and the physicochemical and sensory quality of scones was studied. The water absorption capacity (WAC), oil absorption capacity (OAC) and bulk density (BD) significantly (p < .05) increased whereas the swelling index (SWI) decreased with increase in the proportion of lentil flour. Batter viscosity significantly (p < .05) decreased from 1972 to 1968 cP with increase in the proportion of lentil flour. The crude protein content increased from 5.81% to 9.83% and the ash content decreased from 4.61% to 2.29% with increase in the lentil proportion. Specific volume, volume and height decreased with increase in the proportion of lentil. The baking loss increased from 5.36% to 13.56% with increase in taro flour proportion. The L*, a* and b* colour values and sensory attributes were also significantly affected by the blend proportions. Based on the results, lentils can be incorporated up to 30% and taro up to 10% for a protein‐enhanced and acceptable product.
Prediction of nano metal matrix composites based on hybrid approach
Authors: Sudheer Kumar Varma N. , Rajasekhar P. , Ganesan G. , Sita Rama Raju K. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis manuscript proposes a hybrid method to predict the optimal nano‐metal matrix composites. The proposed hybrid technique is the wrapper of the Fire‐Hawk Optimizer (FHO) and Spiking Neural Network (SNN). Commonly it is known as FHO‐SNN method. The main objective of the proposed method is to improve the method parameters for better enhancement in mechanical properties. FHO approach is used to improve the process parameters of stirring squeeze casting method. The SNN predicts optimal parameters. Moreover, the problem based on the casting is reduced. By then the proposed hybrid technique performance is performed in the MATLAB platform and associated with various existing approaches. The proposed system shows the high tensile strength, impact energy and hardness compared with other existing methods.
Simulation study on the performance of gap oil film lubrication under extreme working conditions of micro‐textured hydrostatic support
Authors: Feng Yanan , Yu Xiaodong , Jiang Hui , Dai Ruichun , Jia Wentao , Wang Junfeng , Jiao Jianhua 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBased on the theory of fluid mechanics, the lubrication performance of micro‐textured hydrostatic bearings is derived. Under extreme operating conditions, the lubrication performance of clearance oil film without micro‐texture and with rectangular and triangular micro‐textures added to the oil sealing edge is simulated, and the experimental verification of the lubrication performance of the double rectangular cavity without micro‐texture is conducted. The results show that regardless of whether micro‐texture is added or not, the oil film pressure is distributed in a stepped shape, and the highest temperature of the oil film occurs at the intersection of the oil sealing edges on the outside of the double rectangular cavity. When the maximum depth of triangular micro‐texture is 1.5 mm and the dimension of a segment is 1 mm, triangular micro‐texture with an obtuse angle of 103° has the best comprehensive lubrication performance, but its oil film bearing capacity still does not exceed that of rectangular micro‐texture.
Tribological properties of a novel iron‐based self‐lubricating composite
Authors: Zhu Chen , Ahn Ilhoon , Zheng Xiaojing , Bao Yichen , Dong Yinghui , Yao Lulu , Song Ruhong , Wei Daogao , Xu Yufu 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIn this work, the tribological properties of a novel iron‐based self‐lubricating composite as the tribopairs of a plunger pump were systematically studied on an end‐face tribometer, and the tribological mechanism was also revealed. The results show that the wear mechanism of the composite can be ascribed to adhesive wear when the sliding speed is lower than 1.5 m/s. As the sliding speed increases from 1.5 to 2.0 m/s, the wear type transforms to oxidative wear due to the increase of tribo‐oxidation. In addition, the failure criteria of the tribopair composite materials are summarised. When the average coefficient of friction is greater than 0.04, or the wear rate is greater than 9.66 μm3/(N m), the tribopair fails. This offers a valuable reference for industrial application of the tribopairs made from the iron‐based self‐lubricating composite.
Analyzing the Influence of Multimaterial 3D Printing and Postprocessing on Mechanical and Tribological Characteristics
Authors: Yilmaz Sinan , Gul, Okan , Eyri Busra , Karsli N. Gamze , Yilmaz Taner 
Published: February 2024

Abstract3D printing has witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity due to its flexibility in design and adaptability as a manufacturing technique to nearly each industrial area. This study focuses on harnessing the technological versatility of 3D printing by utilizing both standard poly lactic acid (PLA) and copper powder‐doped PLA to fabricate intricate structures through a layer‐by‐layer additive manufacturing process. The other innovation introduced here lies in the postprocessing step, which involves salt remelting. The mechanical properties of 3D‐printed standard test specimens undergo comprehensive assessment, encompassing bending and tensile evaluations, hardness measurements, density assessments, dimensional stability analyses, and wear resistance examinations. Utilizing copper powder‐doped PLA for the initial and final layers in XYZ‐oriented prints enables multimaterial printing, resulting in an ≈14% increase in tensile strength. Subsequently, subjecting this multimaterial composite to salt remelting elevates the strength enhancement to ≈16%, accompanied by a significant boost in rigidity by reducing voids in cross‐sectional area. In addition, scanning electron microscope images are captured, allowing for a detailed morphological analysis, which is then correlated with the findings of the various tests performed. This research unveils the potential of 3D printing technology in crafting materials with tailored mechanical properties, advancing its applicability in numerous industrial sectors.
Are Cognitive Symptoms Part of the Phenotypic Spectrum of Idiopathic Adult‐Onset Dystonia? Summary of Evidence from Controlled Studies
Authors: Defazio Giovanni , Muroni Antonella , Taurisano Paolo , Gigante Angelo Fabio , Fanzecco Michela , Martino Davide 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackgroundCognitive dysfunction has been reported in idiopathic adult‐onset dystonia (IAOD), but whether this is a primary or secondary component of the disorder remains uncertain.ObjectiveHere, we aimed to analyze the key domains of abnormal cognitive performance in IAOD and whether this is associated with motor or mood changes.MethodsArticle selection for our critical review was guided by PRISMA guidelines (mesh terms “dystonia” and “cognitive,” publication period: 2000–2022). Only peer‐reviewed, English‐language original case–control studies involving patients with IAOD who were not exposed to dopamine‐ or acetylcholine‐modulating agents and validated cognitive assessments were included.ResultsAbstract screening ultimately yielded 22 articles for full‐text review and data extraction. A greater proportion of studies (17 of 22, 82%) reported abnormal cognitive performance in IAOD. Most of these studies focused on blepharospasm (BSP) and cervical dystonia (10 and 14, respectively). Most studies reporting cognitive impairment (11 of 17) identified multidomain impairment in cognition. Executive functions were the domain most frequently explored (14 of 22 studies), 79% of which detected worse performance in people with dystonia. Results related to other domains were inconclusive. Cognitive abnormalities were independent of motor symptoms in most studies (7 of 12) that explored this relationship and independent of mood status in all 8 that investigated this.ConclusionsWithin IAOD, cognitive dysfunction (in particular, executive dysfunction) has been documented mainly in BSP and cervical dystonia. More comprehensive testing is warranted to assess abnormalities in other domains and in other forms of IAOD, as well as to evaluate longitudinal progression of cognitive disturbances in this condition.
Coupled Activation of the Hyperdirect and Cerebellothalamic Pathways with Zona Incerta Deep Brain Stimulation
Authors: Bingham Clayton S. , McIntyre Cameron C. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackgroundDeep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) or ventral intermediate nucleus (VIM) are established targets for the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD) or essential tremor (ET), respectively. However, DBS of the zona incerta (ZI) can be effective for both disorders. VIM DBS is assumed to achieve its therapeutic effect via activation of the cerebellothalamic (CBT) pathway, whereas the activation of the hyperdirect (HD) pathway likely plays a role in the mechanisms of STN DBS. Interestingly, HD pathway axons also emit collaterals to the ZI and red nucleus (RN) and the CBT pathway courses nearby to the ZI.ObjectiveThe aim was to examine the ability of ZI DBS to mutually activate the HD and CBT pathways in a detailed computational model of human DBS.MethodsWe extended a previous model of the human HD pathway to incorporate axon collaterals to the ZI and RN. The anatomical framework of the model system also included representations of the CBT pathway and internal capsule (IC) fibers of passage. We then performed detailed biophysical simulations to quantify DBS activation of the HD, CBT, and IC pathways with electrodes located in either the STN or ZI.ResultsSTN DBS and ZI DBS both robustly activated the HD pathway. However, STN DBS was limited by IC activation at higher stimulus amplitudes. Alternatively, ZI DBS avoided IC activation while simultaneously activating the HD and CBT pathways.ConclusionsFrom both neuroanatomical and biophysical perspectives, ZI DBS represents an advantageous target for coupled activation of the HD and CBT pathways. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
cGAS‐STING pathway agonists are promising vaccine adjuvants
Authors: Tian Xinyu , Ai Jiayuan , Tian Xiaohe , Wei Xiawei 
Published: February 2024

AbstractAdjuvants are of critical value in vaccine development as they act on enhancing immunogenicity of antigen and inducing long‐lasting immunity. However, there are only a few adjuvants that have been approved for clinical use, which highlights the need for exploring and developing new adjuvants to meet the growing demand for vaccination. Recently, emerging evidence demonstrates that the cGAS‐STING pathway orchestrates innate and adaptive immunity by generating type I interferon responses. Many cGAS‐STING pathway agonists have been developed and tested in preclinical research for the treatment of cancer or infectious diseases with promising results. As adjuvants, cGAS‐STING agonists have demonstrated their potential to activate robust defense immunity in various diseases, including COVID‐19 infection. This review summarized the current developments in the field of cGAS‐STING agonists with a special focus on the latest applications of cGAS‐STING agonists as adjuvants in vaccination. Potential challenges were also discussed in the hope of sparking future research interests to further the development of cGAS‐STING as vaccine adjuvants.
Multicolor melting curve analysis discloses high carrier frequency of hearing loss‐associated variants among neonates in Jiangsu province
Authors: Liu Yi , Zhang Yuanyuan , Wang Jue , Song Shengnan , Wang Huiyan , Meng Qian , Zhan Yuan , Xu Yetao , Sun Lizhou 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackgroundGenetic disorders ascribe to half of cases of congenital hearing loss. Hearing screening is significant in detecting hearing loss (HL) but weak at diagnosis, which can be complemented by genetic screening.MethodsTo find a feasible method to accomplish genetic screening and evaluate its advantage when combined with hearing screening, between 1 January 2022, and 10 December 2023, we performed an observational cohort study based on 2488 neonates from the Han population at three hospitals in Jiangsu province. Genetic screening for 20 variants in four common HL‐associated genes by multicolor melting curve analysis (MMCA) and hearing screening were offered concurrently to all participants.ResultsIn total, 170 (6.8%) of 2488 eligible neonates were detected at least one variant and among them, the proportion of referral was higher (p < 0.05). Genetic screening combined with hearing screening was associated with a 25.0% increase (2 of 8) in discovering cases of diagnosed hearing loss that were missed by hearing screening.ConclusionThis study suggests that genetic screening combined with hearing screening by MMCA is effective at finding potential HL cases and practical to be validated in other places.
Association of Y chromosome AZF region microdeletions with recurrent miscarriage in Iranian couples: A case–control study
Authors: Pazoki Nasrin , Salehi Mitra , Angaji Seyed Abdolhamid , Abdollahpour‐Alitappeh Meghdad 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackgroundRecent studies have linked recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) to abnormalities in the sperm genome, specifically microdeletions in the azoospermia factor (AZF) region. This study investigated the potential association between Y chromosome microdeletions in the AZF region and RPL in Iranian couples.MethodsThe research presents a case–control study of 240 men: 120 whose partners experienced recurrent miscarriage, and 120 who had successful pregnancies without history of miscarriage. The study used semen parameters, hormone analyses, and microdeletion analysis via multiplex PCR and the YChromStrip kit. Thus, the sequence‐tagged site (STS) markers of AZFa (sY84, sY86), AZFb (sY127, sY134), and AZFc (sY254, sY255) regions were examined.ResultsThe variations in semen parameters and sex hormone levels between cases and controls are suggest impaired testicular function in men whose partners had recurrent miscarriages (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the study revealed a negative correlation between sperm count and follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) level, and a positive one between sperm motility and testosterone concentration. There were no microdeletions in the control group, while the RPL group showed 20 deletions in AZFb (sY134) (16.66%) and 10 deletions each in AZFb (sY127) (8.33%) and AZFc (sY254) (8.33%).ConclusionMicrodeletions in sY134 (AZFb) were significantly associated with RPL in Iranian men (p = 0.03). AZF microdeletion screening in couples with RPL can provide valuable information for ethnical genetic counseling and management of recurrent miscarriage. Further studies on larger populations or across various ethnic groups, conclusions and the inclusion of other factors like epigenetic changes explain the role of AZF microdeletions in RPL.
W‐band multimode monopulse horn feed for reflector antenna
Authors: Chen Yang , Wang Yihui , Meng Hongfu , Dou Wenbin 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis letter proposes a W‐band multimode monopulse horn (MMH) feed to improve the total efficiency (TE) of the reflector antenna. The feed consists of a MMH and a single‐layer comparator. The MMH utilizes one pyramidal horn and four rectangular waveguides (RWGs) for feeding. The eight electric modes required in the MMH yield excellent sum and difference patterns. The impact of unwanted modes is suppressed using a 90° phase difference approach. The comparator contains four novel 3 dB couplers and E‐plane RWGs, providing low loss and high multiport transmission performance. The MMH feed has been fabricated, tested, and applied to a Cassegrain antenna. The measured maximal TE for the Cassegrain antenna between 90 and 97 GHz is 54.9%. The realized gain of the sum beam is 40.3 dBi at 93.5 GHz. The null depths of difference beams in the azimuth and elevation planes are about −37.7 and −29.1 dB, respectively.
A low‐profile high‐gain filtering patch antenna with harmonic suppression
Authors: Gao Xiao , Zhao Jianping , Qiao Di , Xu Juan 
Published: February 2024

AbstractA compact high‐gain filtering patch antenna with harmonic suppression characteristic is proposed. The antenna mainly contains a coupled transmission line and a central rectangular patch. The capacitive coupling between the coupled transmission line and the rectangular patch generates a radiating null at high frequencies. Then, acrossing the hybrid coupling principle, the structure of the microstrip‐to‐slotline transition builds two coupling paths, which generate a radiating null at low frequencies. In addition, two vertical slots are carved into the rectangular center patch to truncate the lateral current. That removes the higher order resonant modes and suppresses the parasitic passbands at high frequencies outside the passband. A fabricated 2 × 2 filtering antenna array is measured, showing a bandwidth up to 3.9% (8.68–9.03 GHz), a peak gain of 14.43 dBi, and two near‐band radiation nulls located at 8 and 9.55 GHz, demonstrating good radiation performances and an isolation of 25 dB.
Getting the phase consistent: The importance of phase description in balanced steady‐state free precession MRI of multi‐compartment systems
Authors: Plähn Nils M. J. , Poli Simone , Peper Eva S. , Açikgöz Berk C. , Kreis Roland , Ganter Carl , Bastiaansen Jessica A. M. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractPurposeDetermine the correct mathematical phase description for balanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP) signals in multi‐compartment systems.Theory and MethodsBased on published bSSFP signal models, different phase descriptions can be formulated: one predicting the presence and the other predicting the absence of destructive interference effects in multi‐compartment systems. Numerical simulations of bSSFP signals of water and acetone were performed to evaluate the predictions of these different phase descriptions. For experimental validation, bSSFP profiles were measured at 3T using phase‐cycled bSSFP acquisitions performed in a phantom containing mixtures of water and acetone, which replicates a system with two signal components. Localized single voxel MRS was performed at 7T to determine the relative chemical shift of the acetone‐water mixtures.ResultsBased on the choice of phase description, the simulated bSSFP profiles of water‐acetone mixtures varied significantly, either displaying or lacking destructive interference effects, as predicted theoretically. In phantom experiments, destructive interference was consistently observed in the measured bSSFP profiles of water‐acetone mixtures, supporting the theoretical description that predicts such interference effects. The connection between the choice of phase description and predicted observation enables unambiguous experimental identification of the correct phase description for multi‐compartment bSSFP profiles, which is consistent with the Bloch equations.ConclusionThe study emphasizes that consistent phase descriptions are crucial for accurately describing multi‐compartment bSSFP signals, as incorrect phase descriptions result in erroneous predictions.
Optimising body weight in people with obesity prior to knee or hip arthroplasty: A feasibility study utilising a dietitian‐led low inflammatory diet
Authors: Genel Furkan , Pavlovic Natalie , Gao Manxin , Hackett Danella , Lewin Adriane , Piya Milan , Mills Kathryn , Brady Bernadette , Dennis Sarah , Boland Rob , Harris Ian A. , Flood Victoria M. , Adie Sam , Naylor Justine M. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackgroundWeight loss is recommended for people with obesity prior to undergoing total knee or hip arthroplasty. This study aimed to determine the feasibility of implementing a dietitian‐led low‐inflammatory weight‐loss diet for people with obesity awaiting arthroplasty. Secondary aims were to report weight change, patient‐reported outcomes, diet compliance, surgery deferment and diet acceptability.MethodsEligible participants were enrolled across two sequential periods; Usual Care (UC) was recruited, followed by an intervention period with a dietitian‐led weight‐loss programme (DT). Assessments occurred at baseline, 6‐month and pre‐surgery (11–12 months from baseline). Predefined diet feasibility outcomes included: (i) recruitment rate ≥60%, (ii) ≥60% of DT group reporting ≥10% improved compliance with low‐inflammatory diet by pre‐surgery, (iii) all DT participants attending ≥60% of dietitian consultations, (iv) proportion of DT group losing ≥5% weight double that of UC by pre‐surgery.ResultsNinety‐seven people participated (UC, n = 47, DT, n = 50). Baseline variables were similar between groups. None of the diet feasibility criteria were fulfilled: 52% of eligible people consented; 57% of DT group improved diet compliance; 72% of DT Group attended ≥60% of dietitian appointments; 31.4% of DT group lost ≥5% weight (compared to 20.6% of UC). Compared to UC group at pre‐surgery, DT group demonstrated modest weight loss (−1.7 kg (95%CI ‐3.5,0.2) versus −0.4 kg (−2.5,1.6)), and decreased waist circumference (−4.8 cm (−6.9,‐2.8) versus −2.2 cm (−5.2,0.7)). Three DT participants declined surgery due to improved symptoms.ConclusionUtilisation of a dietitian‐led low‐inflammatory weight‐loss diet was not feasible in this cohort. Suboptimal diet compliance likely explains the modest weight loss results.