bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Static and dynamic topology optimization: an innovative unifying approach
Authors: Venini Paolo , Pingaro Marco 
Published: March 2023

AbstractThis paper presents a topology optimization approach that is innovative with respect to two distinct matters. First of all the proposed formulation is capable to handle static and dynamic topology optimization with virtually no modifications. Secondly, the approach is inherently a multi-input multi-output one, i.e., multiple objectives can be pursued in the presence of multiple loads. The input-to-output transfer matrix, say $${{{\varvec{G}}}}$$

G

, is the key ingredient that governs the algebraic mapping between applied loads and structural response. In statics $${{{\varvec{G}}}}$$

G

depends on the design variables only, whereas it depends on the frequency variable as well in the dynamic case. The Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) of $${{{\varvec{G}}}}$$

G

represents then the core of the proposed approach. Singular values are shown to be the gains of the input/output mapping and are used to compute proper norms of $${{\varvec{G}}}$$

G

that represent the goal functions to be minimized. Singular vectors provide at no extra cost the plant directions, i.e., the load combination factors that stress the structure the most. Numerical examples are discussed in much detail and open issues object of ongoing investigations are highlighted. A full Matlab code handling the static topology optimization problem is provided as an online Appendix to the manuscript. Its extension to the dynamic case may be gathered following the formulation proposed in Sect. 5.
Quantification and stability assessment of urinary phenolic and acidic biomarkers of non-persistent chemicals using the SPE-GC/MS/MS method
Authors: Klimowska Anna , Wynendaele Evelien , Wielgomas Bartosz 
Published: March 2023

AbstractNowadays, people are exposed to numerous man-made chemicals, many of which are ubiquitously present in our daily lives, and some of which can be hazardous to human health. Human biomonitoring plays an important role in exposure assessment, but complex exposure evaluation requires suitable tools. Therefore, routine analytical methods are needed to determine several biomarkers simultaneously. The aim of this study was to develop an analytical method for quantification and stability testing of 26 phenolic and acidic biomarkers of selected environmental pollutants (e.g., bisphenols, parabens, pesticide metabolites) in human urine. For this purpose, a solid-phase extraction coupled with gas chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (SPE-GC/MS/MS) method was developed and validated. After enzymatic hydrolysis, urine samples were extracted using Bond Elut Plexa sorbent, and prior to GC, the analytes were derivatized with N-trimethylsilyl-N-methyl trifluoroacetamide (MSTFA). Matrix-matched calibration curves were linear in the range of 0.1–1000 ng mL−1 with R > 0.985. Satisfactory accuracy (78–118%), precision (< 17%), and limits of quantification (0.1–0.5 ng mL−1) were obtained for 22 biomarkers. The stability of the biomarkers in urine was assayed under different temperature and time conditions that included freezing and thawing cycles. All tested biomarkers were stable at room temperature for 24 h, at 4 °C for 7 days, and at −20 °C for 18 months. The total concentration of 1-naphthol decreased by 25% after the first freeze–thaw cycle. The method was successfully used for the quantification of target biomarkers in 38 urine samples.
Analysis of cellulose synthesis in a high-producing acetic acid bacterium Komagataeibacter hansenii
Authors: Bimmer Martin , Reimer Martin , Klingl Andreas , Ludwig Christina , Zollfrank Cordt , Liebl Wolfgang , Ehrenreich Armin 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Bacterial cellulose (BC) represents a renewable biomaterial with unique properties promising for biotechnology and biomedicine. Komagataeibacter hansenii ATCC 53,582 is a well-characterized high-yield producer of BC used in the industry. Its genome encodes three distinct cellulose synthases (CS), bcsAB1, bcsAB2, and bcsAB3, which together with genes for accessory proteins are organized in operons of different complexity. The genetic foundation of its high cellulose-producing phenotype was investigated by constructing chromosomal in-frame deletions of the CSs and of two predicted regulatory diguanylate cyclases (DGC), dgcA and dgcB. Proteomic characterization suggested that BcsAB1 was the decisive CS because of its high expression and its exclusive contribution to the formation of microcrystalline cellulose. BcsAB2 showed a lower expression level but contributes significantly to the tensile strength of BC and alters fiber diameter significantly as judged by scanning electron microscopy. Nevertheless, no distinct extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) from this operon was identified after static cultivation. Although transcription of bcsAB3 was observed, expression of the protein was below the detection limit of proteome analysis. Alike BcsAB2, deletion of BcsAB3 resulted in a visible reduction of the cellulose fiber diameter. The high abundance of BcsD and the accessory proteins CmcAx, CcpAx, and BglxA emphasizes their importance for the proper formation of the cellulosic network. Characterization of deletion mutants lacking the DGC genes dgcA and dgcB suggests a new regulatory mechanism of cellulose synthesis and cell motility in K. hansenii ATCC 53,582. Our findings form the basis for rational tailoring of the characteristics of BC.

Key points
• BcsAB1 induces formation of microcrystalline cellulose fibers.
• Modifications by BcsAB2 and BcsAB3 alter diameter of cellulose fibers.
• Complex regulatory network of DGCs on cellulose pellicle formation and motility.
Cardiac dysfunction in mixed connective tissue disease: a nationwide observational study
Authors: Berger Simon Girmai , Witczak Birgit Nomeland , Reiseter Silje , Schwartz Thomas , Andersson Helena , Hetlevik Siri Opsahl , Berntsen Kristin Schjander , Sanner Helga , Lilleby Vibke , Gunnarsson Ragnar , Molberg Øyvind , Sjaastad Ivar , Stokke Mathis Korseberg 
Published: March 2023

AbstractWe aimed to identify cardiac function in patients with established mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD). This was a cross-sectional case–control study of well-characterised MCTD patients who had previously been included in a nationwide cohort. Assessments comprised protocol transthoracic echocardiography, electrocardiogram and blood samples. In patients only, we evaluated the findings of high-resolution pulmonary computed tomography and disease activity. We assessed 77 MCTD patients (mean age 50.5 ± 12.3 years) with a mean disease duration of 16.4 years, and 59 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (49.9 ± 11.7 years). By echocardiography, measures of left ventricular function, i.e. fractional shortening (38.1 ± 6.4% vs. 42.3 ± 6.6%, p < 0.001), mitral annulus plane systolic excursion (MAPSE) (13.7 ± 2.1 mm vs. 15.3 ± 2.3 mm, p < 0.001) and early diastolic velocity of the mitral annulus (e’) (0.09 ± 0.02 m/s vs. 0.11 ± 0.03 m/s, p = 0.002) were subclinical and lower in patients than controls. Right ventricular dysfunction was found in patients assessed by tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) (22.7 ± 4.0 mm vs. 25.5 ± 4.0 mm, p < 0.001). While cardiac dysfunction was not associated with pulmonary disease, e’ and TAPSE were found to correlate with disease activity at baseline. In this cohort of MCTD patients, echocardiographic examinations demonstrated a higher frequency of cardiac dysfunction than in matched controls. Cardiac dysfunction was associated with disease activity at baseline, but was independent of cardiovascular risk factors and pulmonary disease. Our study indicates that cardiac dysfunction is part of the multi-organ affliction seen in MCTD.
Occupational exposure to ionizing radiation in medical staff: trends during the 2009–2019 period in a multicentric study
Authors: Baudin Clémence , Vacquier Blandine , Thin Guillemette , Chenene Lamine , Guersen Joël , Partarrieu Isabelle , Louet Martine , Ducou Le Pointe Hubert , Mora Stéphanie , Verdun-Esquer Catherine , Feuardent Juliette , Rousseau Frédéric , Roy Hervé , Bensefa-Colas Lynda , Boyer Louis , Bernier Marie-Odile 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Objectives
Health workers exposed to ionizing radiation account for  + 50% of workers exposed to man-made radiation in France. Over the last decade, the use of radiation in medicine has increased due to the introduction of new practices. The EXposition des Professionnels de santE aux RayonnemenTs ioniSants study aims to evaluate and characterize the trends in radiation exposure of health workers in France between 2009 and 2019.

Methods
This retrospective study includes all health workers with at least one dosimetric record in the system for occupational dosimetry registration (Système d’information de la surveillance de l’exposition aux rayonnements ionisants) database for each of the years 2009, 2014, and 2019, in the hospitals included in the study. Individual external doses and socio-professional data were collected. Statistical analyses include descriptions, graphs, and logistic regressions.

Results
A total of 1457 workers were included (mean age: 39.8 years, 59% women). The average exposure significantly decreased between 2009 and 2019 (−0.008 mSv/year, p < 0.05). There were large discrepancies in trends according to professions, departments, hospitals, and gender. Over the 10-year study period, radiologic technologists and physicians were the most exposed (0.15 mSv (95%CI 0.14–0.16) and 0.13 mSv (0.06–0.21), respectively), but their exposure tended to decrease. Workers in nuclear medicine departments had the highest radiation exposure (0.36 mSv (0.33–0.39)), which remained stable over time. Thirty-eight percent of recorded doses were nonzero in 2009, decreasing to 20% in 2019.

Conclusions
This study allowed to identify physicians and radiologic technologists in nuclear medicine departments as the most exposed medical workers in France, and to show an overall decrease trend in radiation exposure. This should be instructive for radiation monitoring and safety of exposed medical workers.

Key Points
• Radiation exposure of healthcare workers in most medical departments has steadily decreased between 2009 and 2019 in several French hospitals.
• The number of zero doses consistently increased during the study period.
• Workers in nuclear medicine departments are the most exposed, especially radiologic technologists and physicians.
Saddle-Type Blow-Up Solutions with Computer-Assisted Proofs: Validation and Extraction of Global Nature
Authors: Lessard Jean-Philippe , Matsue Kaname , Takayasu Akitoshi 
Published: March 2023

AbstractIn this paper, blow-up solutions of autonomous ordinary differential equations (ODEs) which are unstable under perturbations of initial points, referred to assaddle-type blow-up solutions, are studied. Combining dynamical systems machinery (e.g., compactifications, timescale desingularizations of vector fields) with tools from computer-assisted proofs (e.g., rigorous integrators, the parameterization method for invariant manifolds), these blow-up solutions are obtained as trajectories on local stable manifolds of hyperbolic saddle equilibria at infinity. With the help of computer-assisted proofs, global trajectories on stable manifolds, inducing blow-up solutions, provide a global picture organized by global-in-time solutions and blow-up solutions simultaneously. Using the proposed methodology, intrinsic features of saddle-type blow-ups are observed: locally smooth dependence of blow-up times on initial points, level set distribution of blow-up times and decomposition of the phase space playing a role as separatrixes among solutions, where the magnitude of initial points near those blow-ups does not matter for asymptotic behavior. Finally, singular behavior of blow-up times on initial points belonging to different family of blow-up solutions is addressed.
Associations between dairy intake and mortality due to all-cause and cardiovascular disease: the Japan Public Health Center-based prospective study
Authors: Ge Sanyu , Zha Ling , Sobue Tomotaka , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Iso Hiroyasu , Ishihara Junko , Kito Kumiko , Iwasaki Motoki , Inoue Manami , Yamaji Taiki , Tsugane Shoichiro , Sawada Norie 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Background
Some studies have investigated the relation between dairy products and mortality, but with inconsistent results.

Objective
We examined the association between the consumption of dairy products and the risk of all-cause, cancer-related, and cardiovascular disease (CVD)-related mortality.

Methods
From the Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective (JPHC) study, 43,117 males and 50,193 females with no history of cancer or CVD finished the food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and were included in the study. Intake of dairy products was assessed using the FFQ and adjusted for total energy by using the residual method. We used multivariate Cox proportional hazard models to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for mortality risk in males and females.

Results
14,211 deaths in males and 9547 deaths in females from all causes were identified during an average follow-up of 19.3 years. For males, total dairy consumption was nonlinearly and significantly associated with lower risk of mortality from all causes [the third quartile, HR = 0.87 (0.83, 0.91), the fourth quartile, HR = 0.89 (0.85, 0.94), P for nonlinearity < 0.001] and CVD [the third quartile, HR = 0.77 (0.70, 0.85), the fourth quartile, HR = 0.78 (0.70, 0.86), P for nonlinearity < 0.001]. Milk and fermented milk intake were inversely associated with all-cause and CVD-related mortality in males. Cheese consumption was inversely associated with CVD-related mortality among males. There was no association between total dairy intake and mortality risk among females.

Conclusion
For Japanese people, consumption of dairy products was associated with a decreased risk of mortality from all-cause and cardiovascular diseases among males.
Immune-mediated cytopenias (IMCs) after HSCT for pediatric non-malignant disorders: epidemiology, risk factors, pathogenesis, and treatment
Authors: Spadea Manuela , Saglio Francesco , Ceolin Valeria , Barone Marta , Zucchetti Giulia , Quarello Paola , Fagioli Franca 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) represents a curative option for pediatric patients affected by malignant and non-malignant disorders. Several complications may arise during the post-transplantation period, including immune-mediated disorders. Immune-mediated cytopenias (IMCs) account for up to 22% of pediatric HSCT complications, representing an important cause of morbidity and mortality post-HSCT. So far, their pathogenesis is not well-understood, and their management may be very challenging. Further, most patients are refractory to first-line treatment which is based on high-dose intravenous steroids, immunoglobulin, and the monoclonal anti-CD20 antibody — rituximab. No clear consensus has been reached for second- and third-line therapeutic options.Conclusion: We reviewed the epidemiology, risk factors, pathogenesis, and treatment of IMCs, aiming to offer a deeper understanding of these complications as a guide to improving the management of these fragile patients and a cue for the design of tailored clinical trials.

What is Known:• IMCs arising in the post-HSCT setting represent a rare but potentially life-threatening complication. Younger patients affected by non-malignant disorders are at the greatest risk of IMCs arising after HSCT. Corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, and rituximab represent the undiscussed first-line therapeutic approach.

What is New:• This review highlitghts how children present unique risk factors for post HSCT IMCs, which are the result of the complex relationship between the immaturity of their infantile immune system and all the perturbing agents and factors which characterize the post-HSCT setting. Future efforts are warranted to establish the best option for refractory patients, for whom a standard and validated approach is not currently available. Among new agents, ibrutinib or bortezomib and fostamatinib or low-dose IL-2 could represent a good therapeutic option for patients with graft-versus-host disease and hemolytic anemia or graft-versus-host disease and thrombocytopenia, respectively.
Advances in our understanding of pyroclastic current behavior from the 1980 eruption sequence of Mount St. Helens volcano (Washington), USA
Authors: Brand Brittany D , Pollock Nicholas , Vallance James W , Ongaro Tomaso Esposti , Roche Olivier , Trolese Matteo , Giordano Guido , Marshall Aaron A , Criswell C William 
Published: March 2023

AbstractThis review summarizes what the volcanology community has learned thus far from studying the deposits of pyroclastic currents (PCs) from the 1980 eruption sequence at Mount St. Helens. The review includes mass flow events during the May 18 eruption, including the lateral blast, the afternoon column collapse and boil-over PC activity, and some aspects of the debris avalanche. We also include a summary of PCs generated in the smaller eruptions following the climactic May 18 event. Our objective is to summarize the state of our understanding of PC transport and emplacement mechanisms from the combination of field and laboratory observations, granular flow experiments, and numerical modeling techniques. Specifically, we couple deposit characteristics, experiments, and numerical modeling techniques to critically address the problems of (1) constraining conditions in the flow boundary zone at the time of deposition; (2) the influence of substrate roughness and topography on PC behavior; (3) the prevalence, causes, and consequences of substrate erosion by PCs; and (4) the reconstruction of PC transportation and sedimentation processes from a combination of geophysical and sedimentological observations. We conclude by providing opportunities for future research as our field, experimental, and numerical research techniques advance.
Xylem formation patterns from Mediterranean to subalpine climate conditions reveal high growth plasticity of pine species on Corsica
Authors: Häusser Martin , Aryal Sugam , Barth Johannes A. C. , Bendix Jörg , Garel Emilie , van Geldern Robert , Huneau Frédéric , Juhlke Tobias R. , Knerr Isabel , Santoni Sébastien , Szymczak Sonja , Trachte Katja , Bräuning Achim 
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Key message
Black pine and Maritime pine exhibit considerable differences in growth phenology across elevation belts with a 1-month delay for xylogenesis and increasing growth rates from low, mid to high elevations.

Abstract
Investigating seasonal wood formation is crucial to understand tree growth responses to climate impact. The present study quantifies the variability of xylogenesis along an elevation gradient on the Mediterranean island of Corsica, where two native pine species (Pinus nigra Arnold ssp. laricio Maire and Pinus pinaster Aiton) grow from the upper tree line to sea level, partly in sympatry. We extracted microcores from 35 trees at 5 sites along an East–West transect from the coasts (10 m asl) to the island's central mountain ridge (1600 m asl) during bi-weekly sampling campaigns between 2017 and 2019. We applied generalised additive models to detect radial growth differences in elevation and species along with minimum temperatures for growth initiation. We found that trees in low elevations experienced over 2 months longer growth periods with higher maximum growth rates than in high elevations. The results show a 1-month delay for the beginning of tracheid formation between the low, mid and high-elevation belts but comparable timing for its termination. At the sites where both species co-occur, P. nigra accumulates more radial cells in a shorter time than P. pinaster. Trees at the two contrasting coastal sites have similar growth period lengths, but exhibit a time shift of over a month. Minimum temperatures around growth initiation vary between 3.1 °C for P. nigra and 9.9 °C for P. pinaster. These findings emphasise the high plasticity in the growth behaviour of one of the most widespread tree genera in Mediterranean and temperate zones.
Dorsal column mapping in resection of intramedullary spinal cord tumors: a prospective comparison of two methods and neurological follow-up
Authors: Ueberschaer Moritz , Breitkopf Katharina , Siller Sebastian , Katzendobler Sophie , Weller Jonathan , Greve Tobias , Zausinger Stefan , Tonn Joerg-Christian , Szelenyi Andrea 
Published: March 2023

Abstract

Purpose
In surgery for intramedullary spinal cord tumors (imSCT), distortion of the anatomy challenges the visual identification of dorsal columns (DC) for midline myelotomy. Dorsal column mapping (DCM) and spinal cord stimulation (SCS) can identify DC neurophysiologically. We compare application and feasibility of both methods.

Methods
Patients with surgically treated imSCT were prospectively included between 04/2017 and 06/2019. The anatomical midline (AM) was marked. SSEPs at the DC after stimulation of tibial/median nerve with an 8-channel DCM electrode and cortical SSEP phase reversal at C3/C4 after SCS using a bipolar concentric probe were recorded. Procedural and technical aspects were compared. Standardized neurological examinations were performed preoperatively, 1 week postoperatively and after more than 12 months.

Results
The DCM electrode detected the midline in 9/13 patients with handling limitations in the remaining patients. SCS was applicable in all patients with determination of the midline in 9/13. If both recordings could be acquired (6/13), concordance was 100%. If baseline SSEPs were poor, both methods were limited. SCS was less time-consuming (p = 0.001), cheaper, and easier to handle. In 92% of cases, the AM and neurophysiologic midlines were concordant. After myelotomy, 3 patients experienced > 50% reduction in amplitude of SSEPs. Despite early postoperative worsening of DC function, long-term follow-up showed significant recovery and improvement in quality of life.

Conclusion
DCM and SCS may help confirm and correct the AM for myelotomy in imSCT, leading to a favorable long-term neurological outcome in this cohort. SCS evolved to be superior concerning applicability, cost-effectiveness, and time expenditure.