bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internet-based Treatment for Vulvodynia (EMBLA) – A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Hess Engström Andrea , Bohm-Starke Nina , Kullinger Merit , Hesselman Susanne , Högberg Ulf , Buhrman Monica , Skalkidou Alkistis
Published: December 2021

Background

Internet-based ACT (Acceptance and commitment therapy) treatment may improve accessibility and reduce stigma related to seeking health care, but there are a lack of studies investigating internet-based treatment using ACT principles for women with vulvodynia.

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an internet-based treatment of pain during intercourse for women with provoked vulvodynia compared with no intervention during the waiting period before clinical treatment.

Methods

A multicenter randomized controlled trial was conducted during 2016 to 2020, in which 99 participants were included. Participants were randomized to either a 6 week guided internet-based treatment using ACT principles or usual care. Data were collected at baseline, 6 weeks after baseline, and approximately 10 months after baseline.

Outcomes

Pain-related (pain during intercourse, tampon test, impact of pain on sexual function) and pain behavior-related outcomes (attempts at intercourse, sexual activities besides intercourse, willingness to perform the tampon test, chronic pain acceptance questionnaire) were used as outcomes.

Results

Treatment was efficacious in what concerns pain during intercourse and pain acceptance. Less pain during intercourse among women in the intervention group was observed at both post-treatment (primary endpoint, P = .01, Cohen’s d = 1.4, 95% CI = 0.33, 2.4), and follow-up (P = .04). Absolut mean difference between groups for pain during intercourse at post-treatment was -2.84, (95 % CI = -4.91, -0.78), and -1.58 at follow-up, (95 % CI = -3.17, 0.02), where the intervention group rated less pain than controls. No differences between groups over time were found for tampon test measures or impact of pain on sexual function. There was a significant difference between groups at all timepoints indicating fewer attempts at intercourse among participants in the intervention group. At post-treatment, women who underwent internet-based treatment reported higher pain acceptance and a rise in activity engagement compared with the control group.

Clinical Implications

There is an indication that internet-based treatment could be incorporated into clinical practice as a complement to clinical treatment.

Strengths & Limitations

Study strengths included using several forms of recruitment and an intervention built by different professions with long experience of treating patients with vulvodynia. High dropout rate was a limitation of this study.

Conclusion

Internet-based treatment may have an impact on pain during intercourse and positive effects on pain acceptance. However, conclusions must be drawn with caution due to the small sample size.
Low-altitude periglacial activity in southeastern Australia during the late Pleistocene
Authors: Barrows Timothy T. , Mills Stephanie C. , Fitzsimmons Kathryn , Wasson Robert , Galloway Robert
Published: December 2021

Only a small area of the Australian mainland was glaciated during the Pleistocene, whereas periglacial deposits are far more common, indicating that cold environments were extensive and a major influence on landscape evolution. Here we identify representative low-elevation examples of scree slopes and frost action, together with fans and valley fills, indicating pronounced erosion cycles during the Pleistocene. To date the deposits, we explore approaches using radiocarbon, optically stimulated luminescence, and profile dating using the cosmogenic nuclide10Be. The radiocarbon and optical ages show that screes, alluvial valley fill, and fans were deposited between 66–13 ka during the coldest part of the last glacial cycle, and within the previous glacial cycle. Exposure dating indicates further landscape erosion cycles back to the mid Pleistocene. Together, the deposits indicate the frost cracking limit was ~1300 m lower at 680 ± 10 m and mean winter temperature was 8.2 ± 0.5°C colder than present. Periglacial conditions probably affected much of southeastern Australia. The treeless and dry conditions resulted in widespread erosion and increased run off. Combined with increased snow storage within catchments, rivers were paradoxically larger, with high seasonal discharge and sediment loads.
Currency substitution as an automatic stabilizer
Authors: Chen Shu-Hua
Published: December 2021

In the presence of frictions, the existing literature shows that currency substitution is detrimental for domestic aggregate stability. This paper singles out the role of currency substitution and shows that diversified currency holdings operate as an automatic stabilizer that mitigates belief-driven cyclical fluctuations in Farmer’s (1997) indeterminate monetary economy. When the foreign inflation rate is lower than the domestic inflation rate, the model’s steady state always displays saddle-path stability. Hence, equilibrium indeterminacy originally present in the domestic country is entirely removed in the presence of diversified currency holdings. When the foreign inflation rate is higher than the domestic inflation rate, then depending on the degrees of currency substitution and relative risk aversion, indeterminacy is either impossible or the requisite level of the foreign inflation rate for indeterminacy is too high to square with data. The stabilizing effect of diversified currency holdings on domestic aggregate stability is robust to whether domestic and foreign currencies display as Edgeworth substitutes or complements, or are additively separable in the household’s preferences.
Technology Pathways Could Help Drive the U.S. West Coast Grid's Exposure to Hydrometeorological Uncertainty
Authors: Wessel Jacob , Kern Jordan D. , Voisin Nathalie , Oikonomou Konstantinos , Haas Jannik
Published: December 2021

Previous studies investigating deep decarbonization of bulk electric power systems and wholesale electricity markets have not sufficiently explored how future grid pathways could affect the grid's vulnerability to hydrometeorological uncertainty on multiple timescales. Here, we employ a grid operations model and a large synthetic weather ensemble to “stress test” a range of future grid pathways for the U.S. West Coast developed by ReEDS, a well‐known capacity planning model. Our results show that gradual changes in the underlying capacity mix from 2020 to 2050 can cause significant “re‐ranking” of weather years in terms of annual wholesale electricity prices (with “good” years becoming bad, and vice versa). Nonetheless, we find the highest and lowest ranking price years in terms of average electricity price remain mostly tied to extremes in hydropower availability (streamflow) and load (summer temperatures), with the strongest sensitivities related to drought. Seasonal dynamics seen today involving spring snowmelt and hot, dry summers remain well‐defined out to 2050. In California, future supply shortfalls in our model are concentrated in the evening and occur mostly during periods of high temperature anomalies in late summer months and in late winter; in the Pacific Northwest, supply shortfalls are much more strongly tied to negative streamflow anomalies. Under our more robust sampling of stationary hydrometeorological uncertainty, we also find that the ratio of dis‐patchable thermal (i.e., natural gas) capacity to wind and solar required to ensure grid reliability can differ significantly from values reported by ReEDS.
The Changing CO2Sink in the Western Arctic Ocean From 1994 to 2019
Authors: Ouyang Zhangxian , Li Yun , Qi Di , Zhong Wenli , Murata Akihiko , Nishino Shigeto , Wu Yingxu , Jin Meibing , Kirchman David , Chen Liqi , Cai Wei‐Jun
Published: December 2021

The Arctic Ocean has turned from a perennial ice‐covered ocean into a seasonally ice‐free ocean in recent decades. Such a shift in the air‐ice‐sea interface has resulted in substantial changes in the Arctic carbon cycle and related biogeochemical processes. To quantitatively evaluate how the oceanic CO2sink responds to rapid sea ice loss and to provide a mechanistic explanation, here we examined the air‐sea CO2flux and the regional CO2sink in the western Arctic Ocean from 1994 to 2019 by two complementary approaches: observation‐based estimation and a data‐driven box model evaluation. ThepCO2observations and model results showed that summer CO2uptake significantly increased by about 1.4 ± 0.6 Tg C decade−1in the Chukchi Sea, primarily due to a longer ice‐free period, a larger open area, and an increased primary production. However, no statistically significant increase in CO2sink was found in the Canada Basin and the Beaufort Sea based on both observations and modeled results. The reduced sea ice coverage in summer in the Canada Basin and the enhanced wind speed in the Beaufort Sea potentially promoted CO2uptake, which was, however, counteracted by a rapidly decreased air‐seapCO2gradient therein. Therefore, the current and future Arctic Ocean CO2uptake trends cannot be sufficiently reflected by the air‐seapCO2gradient alone because of the sea ice variations and other environmental factors.
Slope Break and Avulsion Locations Scale Consistently in Global Deltas
Authors: Prasojo O. A. , Hoey T. B. , Owen A. , Williams R. D.
Published: December 2021

Understanding how deltas respond to changing sea level is crucial as deltas provide important ecosystems, are inhabited by ∼500 million people, and are nexuses of food, energy and economic activity. The response of delta distributary channels to sea‐level rise depends on the geomorphic controls on delta morphology and their scaling relationships. Our data from 105 deltas globally show strong scaling between the upstream distances to slope breaks and to avulsion nodes, and confirm the previously known scaling between backwater and avulsion lengths. The break in slope is proposed to be the principal control on delta development, along with other proposed secondary controls. We identify and discuss the implications of this slope break‐avulsion length scaling, leading to a conceptual model of delta morphology and sedimentology. This model suggests how deltas may respond to future sea level rise and guides interpretation of deltaic deposits in the rock record.
Air Quality Forecasts Improved by Combining Data Assimilation and Machine Learning With Satellite AOD
Authors: Lee Seunghee , Park Seohui , Lee Myong‐In , Kim Ganghan , Im Jungho , Song Chang‐Keun
Published: December 2021

Satellite aerosol optical depth (AOD) data assimilation (DA) using numerical air quality forecast models has shown a limited improvement due to large uncertainties in the AOD observation operator. This study employed a machine learning (ML) algorithm to estimate the ground‐level particulate matter (PM) from the Geostationary Ocean Color Imager (GOCI) AOD through the random forest with high accuracy. Analysis fields were subsequently produced by applying PM estimations to the Weather Research and Forecasting‐Chemistry/three‐dimensional variational DA system. Initialization of the model with the new analysis remarkably reduced the analysis error and increased the forecast skill. The PM10 prediction showed significant benefits for up to 24 forecast hours, whereas PM2.5 prediction was improved for up to six forecast hours. Considering a broad spatial coverage by satellites, the synergistic use of DA and ML can maximize the effectiveness of satellite DA for air quality forecasts at the ground.
Role of Electrical Effects in Intensifying Rainfall Rates in the Tropics
Authors: Mudiar Dipjyoti , Hazra Anupam , Pawar S. D. , Karumuri Rama Krishna , Konwar Mahen , Mukherjee Subrata , Srivastava Manoj K. , Goswami B. N. , Williams Earle
Published: December 2021

In the backdrop of a significant improvement in weather prediction with Numerical Weather Prediction models, quantitative prediction of the intensity of heavy rainfall events and associated disasters has remained a challenge. Encouraged by the recent emergence of compelling observational evidence for a significant electrical influence on cloud/rain microphysical processes (Mudiar, Pawar, Gopalakrishnana et al., 2021, https://doi.org/10.1029/2021gl093577), here we propose a hypothesis that the modification of the raindrop size distribution (RDSD) towards larger drop sizes facilitated by cloud electric fields could be one factor responsible for realistic rainfall intensity in weather/climate models. The robustness of the proposed hypothesis is confirmed through a series of simulations of strongly electrified rain events with the Weather Research and Forecasting model incorporating the electrically modified RDSD parameters in the model physics. Our results indicate a possible roadmap for improving hazard prediction associated with extreme rainfall events in weather prediction models.
Chilling Accumulation Is Not an Effective Predictor of Vegetation Green‐Up Date in Inner Mongolian Grasslands
Authors: Wang Guocheng , Xiao Meijia , Xia Xiangao , Huang Yao , Luo Zhongkui , Wei Yurong , Zhang Wen
Published: December 2021

Chilling accumulation (CA) might be reduced under a warming climate, which raises a critical question: is vegetation green‐up date (VGD) altered by varing CA? If the answer is yes, existing thermal‐time models should be modified to include a chilling component. By collating observations from eight long‐term (1982–2019) field experiments across Inner Mongolia, we quantitatively assessed the responses of VGD of 27 grass species to CA in this region. The results indicated that effect of CA on VGD is in general negligible for most grass species. As excepted, rather than CA, VGD was predominantly determined by other climatic attributes such as heat requirement (HR) and precipitation. These results demonstrate the robustness of existing thermal‐time models without a chilling component to predict variations in VGD of major plant species in Inner Mongolian temperate grasslands.
Fewer Troughs, Not More Ridges, Have Led to a Drying Trend in the Western United States
Authors: Zhang Wei , Hari Vittal , S‐Y Wang Simon , LaPlante Matthew D. , Garfin Gregg , Affram Grace , Kumar Rohini
Published: December 2021

High‐amplitude ridges can enforce heat‐trapping systems that persist through an entire season, contributing to drought events. However, the impacts of day‐to‐day weather system changes at the meso‐ and synoptic‐scale are also important, albeit less well studied. We identify five weather types (WTs) from 500‐hPa geopotential height anomalies. These categories include WT4, which represents ridges and associated dry and warm anomalies, and WT3, which characterizes troughs and associated wetter‐ and colder‐than‐normal conditions and is the largest contributor to precipitation in the western U.S. While no discernable trend is evident for WT4 conditions, WT3 conditions have undergone a distinctive decrease in frequency at both annual and seasonal scales, thus a general drying trend across the west during this time period may be more significantly associated with fewer troughs rather than more ridges. Attribution analysis reveals that this decrease in wetter and colder weather is a likely result of anthropogenic forcing.
A Statistical Study of the Solar Wind Dependence of Multi‐Harmonic Toroidal ULF Waves Observed by the Arase Satellite
Authors: Yamamoto K. , Seki K. , Matsuoka A. , Imajo S. , Teramoto M. , Kitahara M. , Kasahara Y. , Kumamoto A. , Tsuchiya F. , Shoji M. , Nakamura S. , Miyoshi Y. , Shinohara I.
Published: December 2021

Toroidal standing Alfvén wave is one of the ultra‐low frequency waves that are frequently observed in the terrestrial magnetosphere. They sometimes exhibit multi‐harmonic frequency spectra, indicating wide energy range input in the magnetosphere. However, their energy source has not been fully understood due to the lack of statistical studies. Here we used the data of the Arase satellite observations for ∼3.5 years and conducted a statistical analysis of the solar wind dependence of the occurrence rate, wave power, and frequency of the multi‐harmonic toroidal waves. We automatically detected the multi‐harmonic waves and categorized them into four groups according to the solar wind velocity and the cone angle of the interplanetary magnetic field. We found that the occurrence rate and wave power of the multi‐harmonic waves increase with the solar wind velocity on the flank sides. In the noon sector, the occurrence rate of the multi‐harmonic waves increases with the decrease of the cone angle. The median frequency of the multi‐harmonic waves on the dayside is positively correlated with the upstream wave frequency predicted by the theory of the ion beam instability for a small cone angle. The occurrence rate also increases with the solar wind dynamic pressure fluctuations. Therefore, we suggest that the Kelvin‐Helmholtz instability, the upstream waves, and the dynamic pressure fluctuations are possible sources of the multi‐harmonic waves. This study sheds light on the activity of the multi‐harmonic waves which can affect radiation belt electrons under various solar wind conditions.
Ephemeral Surface Chlorophyll Enhancement at the New England Shelf Break Driven by Ekman Restratification
Authors: Oliver Hilde , Zhang Weifeng Gordon , Archibald Kevin M. , Hirzel Andrew J. , Smith Walker O. , Sosik Heidi M. , Stanley Rachel H. R. , McGillicuddy Dennis J.
Published: December 2021

The Mid‐Atlantic Bight (MAB) hosts a large and productive marine ecosystem supported by high phytoplankton concentrations. Enhanced surface chlorophyll concentrations at the MAB shelf‐break front have been detected in synoptic measurements, yet this feature is not present in seasonal means. To understand why, we assess the conditions associated with enhanced surface chlorophyll at the shelf break. We employ in‐situ and remote sensing data, and a 2‐dimensional model to show that Ekman restratification driven by upfront winds drives ephemerally enhanced chlorophyll concentrations at the shelf‐break front in spring. Using 8‐day composite satellite‐measured surface chlorophyll concentration data from 2003–2020, we constructed a daily running mean (DRM) climatology of the cross‐shelf chlorophyll distribution for the northern MAB region. While the frontal enhancement of chlorophyll is apparent in the DRM climatology, it is not captured in the seasonal climatology due to its short duration of less than a week. In‐situ measurements of the frontal chlorophyll enhancement reveal that chlorophyll is highest in spring when the shelf‐break front slumps offshore from its steep wintertime position causing restratification in the upper part of the water column. Several restratification mechanisms are possible, but the first day of enhanced chlorophyll at the shelf break corresponds to increasing upfront winds, suggesting that the frontal restratification is driven by offshore Ekman transport of the shelf water over the denser slope water. The 2‐dimensional model shows that upfront winds can indeed drive Ekman restratification and alleviate light limitation of phytoplankton growth at the shelf‐break front.
Global Estimate of Tropical Cyclone‐Induced Diapycnal Mixing and Its Links to Climate Variability
Authors: Cao Yuan , Wang Xidong , Shao Caixia
Published: December 2021

A mixing length theory which considers the impact of TC characters and upper ocean stratification, is used to estimate the tropical cyclone (TC) induced diapycnal diffusivity, and investigate the trend, interannual and interdecadal variability of TC‐induced diapycnal diffusivity in the globe and each basin. The annual mean climatology of the TC‐induced diapycnal diffusivity is consistent with previous research, with maximum values in the Western North Pacific (WP) ranging from 0.05 cm2/s up to 1 cm2/s. The trends of TC‐induced diapycnal diffusivity exhibit great inter‐basin differences, which are not only related with TC itself, but also the ocean stratification. On the interannual timescales, El Niño and Southern Oscillation (ENSO) can modulate the variability of TC‐induced diapycnal diffusivity in the globe by regulating the ocean stratification rather than TC intensity, because the impacts of ENSO on TC intensity in each basin cancel out each other. As for each basin, ENSO can affect TC‐induced diapycnal diffusivity mainly by regulating the variability of TC intensity. In addition, the relationship of TC‐induced diapycnal diffusivity with dominant climate modes such as Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) may be interactive on the interdecadal timescales, especially in the areas which are significantly influenced by PDO and NAO, such as WP, Eastern North Pacific and North Atlantic. We anticipate that these results can provide insights into the variability and physical mechanisms of TC‐induced diapycnal mixing.
BRCA1 and BRCA2 pathogenic variants and prostate cancer risk: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nyberg Tommy , Tischkowitz Marc , Antoniou Antonis C.
Published: December 2021

Background

BRCA1 and BRCA2 pathogenic variants (PVs) are associated with prostate cancer (PCa) risk, but a wide range of relative risks (RRs) has been reported.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE and Cochrane Library in June 2021 for studies that estimated PCa RRs for male BRCA1/2 carriers, with no time or language restrictions. The literature search identified 27 studies (BRCA1: n = 20, BRCA2: n = 21).

Results

The heterogeneity between the published estimates was high (BRCA1: I2 = 30%, BRCA2: I2 = 83%); this could partly be explained by selection for age, family history or aggressive disease, and study-level differences in ethnicity composition, use of historical controls, and location of PVs within BRCA2. The pooled RRs were 2.08 (95% CI 1.38–3.12) for Ashkenazi Jewish BRCA2 carriers, 4.35 (95% CI 3.50–5.41) for non-Ashkenazi European ancestry BRCA2 carriers, and 1.18 (95% CI 0.95–1.47) for BRCA1 carriers. At ages <65 years, the RRs were 7.14 (95% CI 5.33–9.56) for non-Ashkenazi European ancestry BRCA2 and 1.78 (95% CI 1.09–2.91) for BRCA1 carriers.

Conclusions

These PCa risk estimates will assist in guiding clinical management. The study-level subgroup analyses indicate that risks may be modified by age and ethnicity, and for BRCA2 carriers by PV location within the gene, which may guide future risk-estimation studies.
A single-agent extension of the SIR model describes the impact of mobility restrictions on the COVID-19 epidemic
Authors: Paoluzzi Matteo , Gnan Nicoletta , Grassi Francesca , Salvetti Marco , Vanacore Nicola , Crisanti Andrea
Published: December 2021

Mobility restrictions are successfully used to contain the diffusion of epidemics. In this work we explore their effect on the epidemic growth by investigating an extension of the Susceptible-Infected-Removed (SIR) model in which individual mobility is taken into account. In the model individual agents move on a chessboard with a Lévy walk and, within each square, epidemic spreading follows the standard SIR model. These simple rules allow to reproduce the sub-exponential growth of the epidemic evolution observed during the Covid-19 epidemic waves in several countries and which cannot be captured by the standard SIR model. We show that we can tune the slowing-down of the epidemic spreading by changing the dynamics of the agents from Lévy to Brownian and we investigate how the interplay among different containment strategies mitigate the epidemic spreading. Finally we demonstrate that we can reproduce the epidemic evolution of the first and second COVID-19 waves in Italy using only 3 parameters, i.e , the infection rate, the removing rate, and the mobility in the country. We provide an estimate of the peak reduction due to imposed mobility restrictions, i. e., the so-called flattening the curve effect. Although based on few ingredients, the model captures the kinetic of the epidemic waves, returning mobility values that are consistent with a lock-down intervention during the first wave and milder limitations, associated to a weaker peak reduction, during the second wave.
Biophysical characterization of the homodimers of HomA and HomB, outer membrane proteins of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Tamrakar Anubhav , Singh Rahul , Kumar Amit , Makde Ravindra D. , Ashish  , Kodgire Prashant
Published: December 2021

Helicobacter pylori is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes chronic inflammations in the stomach area and is involved in ulcers, which can develop into gastric malignancies. H. pylori attaches and colonizes to the human epithelium using some of their outer membrane proteins (OMPs). HomB and HomA are the most studied OMPs from H. pylori as they play a crucial role in adherence, hyper biofilm formation, antibiotic resistance and are also associated with severe gastric malignancies. The role of HomA and HomB in pathogenesis concerning their structure and function has not been evaluated yet. In the present study, we explored the structural aspect of HomA and HomB proteins using various computational, biophysical and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) techniques. Interestingly, the in-silico analysis revealed that HomA/B consists of 8 discontinuous N and C terminal β-strands forming a small β-barrel, along with a large surface-exposed globular domain. Further, biophysical experiments suggested that HomA and HomB are dimeric and most likely the cysteine residues present on surface-exposed loops participate in protein–protein interactions. Our study provides essential structural information of unexplored proteins of the Hom family that can help in a better understanding of H. pylori pathogenesis.
The effects of violet and blue light irradiation on ESKAPE pathogens and human cells in presence of cell culture media
Authors: Bauer Richard , Hoenes Katharina , Meurle Tobias , Hessling Martin , Spellerberg Barbara
Published: December 2021

Bacteria belonging to the group of ESKAPE pathogens are responsible for the majority of nosocomial infections. Due to the increase of antibiotic resistance, alternative treatment strategies are of high clinical relevance. In this context visible light as disinfection technique represents an interesting option as microbial pathogens can be inactivated without adjuvants. However cytotoxic effects of visible light on host cells have also been reported. We compared the cytotoxicity of violet and blue light irradiation on monocytic THP-1 and alveolar epithelium A549 cells with the inactivation effect on ESKAPE pathogens. THP-1 cells displayed a higher susceptibility to irradiation than A549 cells with first cytotoxic effects occurring at 300 J cm−2 (405 nm) and 400 J cm−2 (450 nm) in comparison to 300 J cm−2 and 1000 J cm−2, respectively. We could define conditions in which a significant reduction of colony forming units for all ESKAPE pathogens, except Enterococcus faecium, was achieved at 405 nm while avoiding cytotoxicity. Irradiation at 450 nm demonstrated a more variable effect which was species and medium dependent. In summary a significant reduction of viable bacteria could be achieved at subtoxic irradiation doses, supporting a potential use of visible light as an antimicrobial agent in clinical settings.
Synthesis of poly-tetrahydropyrimidine antibacterial polymers and research of their basic properties
Authors: Xu Taimin , Li Wenlong , Zhang Rong , Guo Shuaibing , Yu Bing , Cong Hailin , Shen Youqing
Published: December 2021

Modern medicine has increasingly higher requirements for antibacterial materials. A series of poly-tetrahydropyrimidine (P-THP) polymers were synthesized through multicomponent polymerizations (MCPs) to overcome this challenge.
Osteon-mimetic 3D nanofibrous scaffold enhances stem cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation for bone regeneration
Authors: Song Ting , Zhou Jianhua , Shi Ming , Xuan Liuyang , Jiang Huamin , Lin Zefeng , Li Yan
Published: December 2021

Bilayer nanofibrous membranes spontaneously deforming from 2D into 3D structure regulate cell morphology and lamin-A expression to promote proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of rADSCs, which shows a great potential to repair bone defect.
N, S-doped graphene derived from graphene oxide and thiourea-formaldehyde resin for high stability lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Li Xianfu , Yu Yingsong , Tang Zebo , Yang Ying , Li Yujie , Cao Jun , Chen Lai
Published: December 2021

N, S-doped graphene provides a strong adsorption ability for polysulfides and protects the Li-metal from corrosion, achieving a high discharge capacity of 826 mA h g−1 at 1C and long cycle stability with only 0.049% capacity decay per cycle.
2-Imino-2,3-dihydrobenzoxazole—a useful platform for designing rare- and alkaline earth complexes with variable di- and trianionic O,N,N, ligands
Authors: Basalov Ivan V. , Kissel Alexander A. , Nikolaevskaya Elena N. , Druzhkov Nikolai O. , Cherkasov Anton V. , Long Jérôme , Larionova Joulia , Fukin Georgy K. , Trifonov Alexander A.
Published: December 2021

Yb(iii), Y(iii) and Ca(ii) complexes coordinated by di- and trianionic diiminophenolate ligands.
Pseudotetrahedral Zn(ii)-(R or S)-dihalogen-salicylaldiminato complexes with Λ- or Δ-chirality induction at-metal
Authors: Rudbari Hadi Amiri , Saadati Arezoo , Aryaeifar Mahnaz , Blacque Olivier , Correia Isabel , Islam Mohammad Khairul , Woschko Dennis , Janiak Christoph , Enamullah Mohammed
Published: December 2021

Pseudotetrahedral bis[(R or S)-N-1-(phenyl)ethyl-dihalogen-salicylaldiminato-κ2N,O]-zinc(ii), (Λ-ZnR or Δ-ZnS) with Λ- or Δ-chirality induction at-metal along the C2-symmetry of the molecules.
Reusable piezocatalytic water disinfection activity of CVD-grown few-layer WS2 on sapphire substrate
Authors: Thakur Deepa , Sharma Moolchand , Balakrishnan Viswanath , Vaish Rahul
Published: December 2021

Chemical vapor deposition method was utilized to grow multilayer 2D-WS2. The as grown semiconductor 2D-WS2 shows excellent piezo-catalytic water purification ability.
Cross-conjugation controls the stabilities and photophysical properties of heteroazoarene photoswitches
Authors: Adrion Daniel M. , Lopez Steven A.
Published: December 2021

Azoarene photoswitches are versatile molecules that interconvert from their E-isomer to their Z-isomer with light.
Development of formamidinium lead iodide-based perovskite solar cells: efficiency and stability
Authors: Zheng Ziwei , Wang Shiyu , Hu Yue , Rong Yaoguang , Mei Anyi , Han Hongwei
Published: December 2021

This perspective is focused on the current development state and the future development direction of FA-based perovskite materials and solar cells.
Enabling chemical protein (semi)synthesis via reducible solubilizing tags (RSTs)
Authors: Liu Jiamei , Wei Tongyao , Tan Yi , Liu Heng , Li Xuechen
Published: December 2021

The reducible solubilizing tag strategy served as a simple and powerful method for the chemical synthesis and semi-synthesis via Ser/Thr ligation and Cys/Pen ligation of extensive self-assembly peptides, membrane proteins with poor solubility.
Turbulent-like velocity fluctuations in two-dimensional granular materials subject to cyclic shear
Authors: Sun Aile , Wang Yinqiao , Chen Yangrui , Shang Jin , Zheng Jie , Yu Shuchang , Su Siyuan , Sun Xulai , Zhang Jie
Published: December 2021

We perform a systematic experimental study to investigate the velocity fluctuations in the two-dimensional granular matter of low and high friction coefficients subjected to cyclic shear of a range of shear amplitudes, whose velocity fields are strikingly turbulent-like with vortices of different scales.
Biomimetic jagged micropatterns templated from photoswitchable liquid crystal topography for energy harvesting and sensing applications
Authors: Luo Qiang , Gao Jingjing , Lin Siyang , Xiong Delan , Sun Haonan , Guo Jinbao
Published: December 2021

Biomimetic jagged micropatterns templated from photoswitchable liquid crystal polymer network topographies have been demonstrated for triboelectric energy harvesting and wearable sensing applications.
Surface modification strategy based on molecular engineering of an organic cation toward spectrally stable deep-blue emission perovskites
Authors: Yue Yifei , Liu Shengnan , Zhang Baohua , Su Zhongmin , Zhu Dongxia
Published: December 2021

The spectrally stable deep-blue emission all-inorganic perovskites are achieved by improving the modification for Cl− on the surface of CsPbBr3−xClx by increasing the number and the positive charge of –NH3+ in the ligands.
The GAPS Programme at TNG
Authors: Fossati L. , Guilluy G. , Shaikhislamov I. F. , Carleo I. , Borsa F. , Bonomo A. S. , Giacobbe P. , Rainer M. , Cecchi-Pestellini C. , Khodachenko M. L. , Efimov M. A. , Rumenskikh M. S. , Miroshnichenko I. B. , Berezutsky A. G. , Nascimbeni V. , Brogi M. , Lanza A. F. , Mancini L. , Affer L. , Benatti S. , Biazzo K. , Bignamini A. , Carosati D. , Claudi R. , Cosentino R. , Covino E. , Desidera S. , Fiorenzano A. , Harutyunyan A. , Maggio A. , Malavolta L. , Maldonado J. , Micela G. , Molinari E. , Pagano I. , Pedani M. , Piotto G. , Poretti E. , Scandariato G. , Sozzetti A. , Stoev H.
Published: December 2021

Context. Because of its proximity to an active K-type star, the hot Jupiter WASP-80b has been identified as a possible excellent target for detecting and measuring He I absorption in the upper atmosphere.

Aims. Our aim was to look for, and eventually measure and model, metastable He I atmospheric absorption.

Methods. We observed four primary transits of WASP-80b in the optical and near-infrared using the HARPS-N and GIANO-B high-resolution spectrographs attached to the Telescopio Nazionale Galileo telescope, focusing the analysis on the He I triplet. We further employed a three-dimensional hydrodynamic aeronomy model to understand the observational results.

Results. We did not find any signature of planetary absorption at the position of the He I triplet with an upper limit of 0.7% (i.e. 1.11 planetary radii; 95% confidence level). We re-estimated the high-energy stellar emission, which we combined with a stellar photospheric model, to generate the input for the hydrodynamic modelling. We determined that, assuming a solar He to H abundance ratio, He I absorption should have been detected. Considering a stellar wind 25 times weaker than solar, we could reproduce the non-detection only by assuming a He to H abundance ratio about 16 times smaller than solar. Instead, considering a stellar wind ten times stronger than solar, we could reproduce the non-detection only with a He to H abundance ratio about ten times smaller than solar. We attempted to understand this result by collecting all past He I measurements and looking for correlations with high-energy stellar emission and planetary gravity, but without success.

Conclusions. WASP-80b is not the only planet with an estimated sub-solar He to H abundance ratio, which suggests the presence of efficient physical mechanisms (e.g. phase separation, magnetic fields) capable of significantly modifying the He to H content in the upper atmosphere of hot Jupiters. The planetary macroscopic properties and the shape of the stellar spectral energy distribution are not sufficient for predicting the presence or absence of detectable metastable He in a planetary atmosphere, since the He abundance also appears to play a major role.
Hidden in plain sight: UVIT and MUSE discovery of a large, diffuse star-forming galaxy
Authors: Yadav Jyoti , Das Mousumi , Barway Sudhanshu , Combes Francoise
Published: December 2021

We report the discovery of a nearby large, diffuse galaxy that shows star formation using Ultra Violet Imaging Telescope (UVIT) far-UV observations and archival optical data from Multi-Unit Spectroscopic Explorer (MUSE), Dark Energy Camera Legacy Survey, and InfraRed Survey Facility near-infrared observations. The galaxy was not detected earlier due to its superposition with the background galaxy NGC 6902A. They were together mistakenly classified as an interacting system. NGC 6902A is at a redshift of 0.05554, but MUSE observations indicate that the interacting tail is a separate star-forming foreground galaxy at a redshift of 0.00980. We refer to the new galaxy as UVIT J202258.73–441623.8 (UVIT J2022). The near-infrared observations show that UVIT J2022 has a stellar mass of 8.7 × 108 M⊙. Its inner disk (R < 4 kpc) shows UV and Hαemission from ongoing massive star formation. The rest of the disk is extremely low in luminosity, has a low stellar surface density, and extends out to a radius ofR ∼ 9 kpc. The velocity and metallicity distribution maps and the star formation history indicate that UVIT J2022 has undergone three bursts of star formation. The latest episode is ongoing, which is supported by the presence of widespread Hαand UV emission in its inner disk. The galaxy also shows patchy spiral arms in the far UV, and there is a metallicity enhancement along a bar-like feature. UVIT J2022 is thus a unique example of triggered star formation in a diffuse galaxy resulting in the growth of its inner stellar disk. Our study raises the intriguing possibilities that (i) there could be similar diffuse galaxies that have been mistakenly interpreted as interacting galaxies due to their superposition, and (ii) UV or Hαemission could be a way to detect such diffuse galaxies in our local universe.
SunnyNet: A neural network approach to 3D non-LTE radiative transfer
Authors: Chappell Bruce A. , Pereira Tiago M. D.
Published: December 2021

Context. Computing spectra from 3D simulations of stellar atmospheres when allowing for departures from local thermodynamic equilibrium (non-LTE) is computationally very intensive.

Aims. We develop a machine learning based method to speed up 3D non-LTE radiative transfer calculations in optically thick stellar atmospheres.

Methods. Making use of a variety of 3D simulations of the solar atmosphere, we trained a convolutional neural network, SunnyNet, to learn the translation from LTE to non-LTE atomic populations. Non-LTE populations computed with an existing 3D code were considered as the true values. The network was then used to predict non-LTE populations for other 3D simulations, and synthetic spectra were computed from its predicted non-LTE populations. We used a six-level model atom of hydrogen and Hα spectra as test cases.

Results. SunnyNet gives reasonable predictions for non-LTE populations with a dramatic speedup of about 105 times when running on a single GPU and compared to existing codes. When using different snapshots of the same simulation for training and testing, SunnyNet’s predictions are within 20–40% of the true values for most points, which results in average differences of a few percent in Hα spectra. Predicted Hα intensity maps agree very well with existing codes. Most importantly, they show the telltale signs of 3D radiative transfer in the morphology of chromospheric fibrils. The results are not as reliable when the training and testing are done with different families of simulations. SunnyNet is open source and publicly available.
Does Splintage Help Pain After Carpal Tunnel Release?
Authors: BHATIA R. , FIELD J. , GROTE J. , HUMA H.
Published: December 2021

A prospective randomized single blind trial was performed of 102 patients undergoing carpal tunnel release. Patients received either a palmar plaster of Paris splint or a bulky wool and crepe bandage postoperatively for the first 48 h, to determine whether the plaster slab reduced postoperative pain. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in postoperative pain scores or analgesic use.
A Single Blind, Prospective, Randomized Trial Comparing N-Butyl 2-Cyanoacrylate Tissue Adhesive (Indermil) and Sutures For Skin Closure in Hand Surgery
Authors: SINHA S. , NAIK M. , WRIGHT V. , TIMMONS J. , CAMPBELL A. C.
Published: December 2021

Fifty patients underwent a variety of hand operations and were randomized for wound closure either with tissue adhesive (Indermil) or sutures. The two treatment groups had similar demographic characteristics and similar outcomes at the 2 and 6 week postoperative assessments which were performed by a designated tissue viability nurse blinded to the method of closure. Five minor wound dehiscences occurred: three in the adhesive group and two in the suture group. No infection occurred in either group. In conclusion, the study demonstrates tissue adhesive is as effective as suture in this type of hand surgery.
Partially Resorbable Mesh Inclusion between Dissected Layers during Surgical Repair of Aortic Dissection
Authors: Cavozza Corrado , Regesta Tommaso , Campanella Antonio , Camporini Glauco , Audo Andrea
Published: December 2021

Surgical management of aortic dissection is technically challenging for different reasons. Reapproximation of dissected layers because of fragility of the dissected aortic wall layers is of major concern. Many techniques have been described to restore the integrity of aortic wall. Inclusion of a partially resorbable mesh fixed with glue, between the dissected layers, may be a simple and effective method for providing a secure and viable end-to-end anastomosis between aortic stump and a Dacron graft.
High-Frequency Three-Dimensional Lumen Volume Ultrasound Is a Sensitive Method to Detect Early Aneurysmal Change in Elastase-Induced Murine Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Waduud Mohammed A. , Kandavelu Parkavi , Reay Melanie , Paradine Katherine , Scott David J. A. , Bailey Marc A.
Published: December 2021

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the reproducibility of anterior–posterior diameter (APdmax) and three-dimensional lumen volume (3DLV) measurements of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) in a classical murine AAA model. We also compared the magnitude of change in the aortic size detected with each method of assessment.

Methods Periadventitial application of porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE AAA) or sham surgery was performed in two cohorts of mice. Cohort 1 was used to assess for observer variability with the APdmax and 3DLV measurements. Cohort 2 highlighted the relationship between APdmax and 3DLV and changes in AAA detected.

Results There was no significant observer variability detected with APdmax measurement. Similarly, no significant intraobserver variability was evident with 3DLV; however, a small but significant interobserver difference was present. APdmax and 3DLV measurements of PPE AAA significantly correlated. However, changes in the AAA morphology were detected earlier with 3DLV.

Conclusion APdmax and 3DLV are both reliable methods for measuring an AAA. Both these methods correlate with each other. However, changes in AAA morphology were detected earlier with 3DLV, which is important to detect subtle but important changes to aortic geometry in a laboratory setting. 3DLV measurement of AAA is a simple, reproducible, and comprehensive method for assessing changes in disease morphology.
A Unique Case of an Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Graft Rupture 14 Years after Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Open Repair Managed with Placement of a Thoracic Endograft
Authors: Alexopoulou-Prounia Loukia , Kakkos Stavros K. , Papageorgopoulou Chrysanthi P. , Katsanos Konstantinos , Zampakis Peter , Tsantrizos Polyzois , Ntouvas Ioannis
Published: December 2021

We report a unique case of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) tube graft rupture that occurred 14 years after abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair. Endovascular repair with a thoracic endograft was performed. Postoperatively, an increase in the size of the existing hematoma with active extravasation occurred and was managed with iliolumbar artery embolization. Τo the best of our knowledge, rupture of ePTFE graft used for AAA repair has not been reported in the literature.
Massive Sternal Osteophyte Compressing Aortic Arch Branch Graft
Authors: Ellauzi Hesham , Cardella Jonathan , Zafar Mohammad A. , Ziganshin Bulat A. , Elefteriades John A.
Published: December 2021

We present a dramatic computed tomography scan demonstrating compression of a brachiocephalic graft by a massive sternal osteophyte, coming to light many years after aortic arch replacement surgery.
A New Era of Diagnosis and Therapy in Acute Aortic Syndromes: The Mainz–Essen Experience (Part II)—Management and Outcomes
Authors: Bossone Eduardo , Gorla Riccardo , Ranieri Brigida , Russo Valentina , Jakob Heinz , Erbel Raimund
Published: December 2021

Over the years, the cardiovascular department of Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz-West-German Heart Centre in Essen (Germany) designed and implemented the hybrid operating room (2003) along with advanced endovascular and surgical procedures, including the frozen elephant trunk technique. For the study purpose, the Mainz–Essen experience on acute aortic syndromes was summarized by considering original articles from single-center or multicenter studies performed at West German Heart Centre, Essen, Germany, or at the cardiovascular department of Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany. We present the 35-year-long Mainz–Essen research, education, and patient management journey in creating an integrated multidisciplinary “Aortic Center” in the heart of Europe.
Role of Extra-anatomic Ascending to Descending Bypass in Complex Thoracic Aortic Pathology
Authors: Camporrotondo Mariano , Pagni Sebastian
Published: December 2021

Complex pathology of the distal arch and proximal descending thoracic aorta is usually approached by stent endografting or in situ graft replacement. Oftentimes, these options are not feasible due to unfavorable anatomy, multiple previous procedures, active infection, or presence of concomitant cardiac disease. Thoracic aortic extra-anatomic bypass, as part of an open surgical strategy, is a useful and often the only curative option left for the treatment in these patients. Herein, we describe two cases that illustrate the utility of extra-anatomic thoracic aortic bypass for complex aortic disease.
Ruptured Popliteal Artery Aneurysm
Authors: Rossi Umberto G. , Petrocelli Francesco , Cariati Maurizio
Published: December 2021

Rupture of a popliteal artery aneurysm is an uncommon event in an uncommon disease. We present the case of an 88-year-old female with a ruptured popliteal artery aneurysm that was diagnosed by multidetector computed tomography and treated by an endovascular approach.
New laser linkage material will improve biomedical diagnostics
Authors: Piccone Ashley
Published: December 2021

Using streptavidin-biotin as the acceptor-donor linkage makes FRET lasers more robust and efficient.
Impact of thermal annealing on deep levels in nitrogen-implanted β-Ga2O3 Schottky barrier diodes
Authors: Fregolent Manuel , De Santi Carlo , Buffolo Matteo , Higashiwaki Masataka , Meneghesso Gaudenzio , Zanoni Enrico , Meneghini Matteo
Published: December 2021

Understanding the properties of N-implanted β-Ga2O3 is fundamental for the optimization of doping and isolation structures based on gallium oxide. This paper reports an extensive analysis of the impact of thermal annealing on the concentration and properties of deep levels in N-implanted β-Ga2O3 Schottky barrier diodes by means of capacitance isothermal transient spectroscopy. Samples with annealing temperatures from 800 to 1200 °C were considered. The original results presented in this paper demonstrate the following: (a) The instability of current–voltage characteristics detected for all the samples under test can be attributed to the presence of three electron traps with activation energies of 0.6, 0.7, and 1 eV, consistent with previous reports in β-Ga2O3. (b) The detected traps are not the nitrogen level but intrinsic defects whose concentration is increased by the implantation process. (c) The concentration of deep levels decreases as the annealing temperature increases, demonstrating that the annealing process can effectively restore the quality of the material while keeping the conductivity decrease related to the presence of the nitrogen. Finally, (d) we demonstrate that the residual leakage and the turn-on voltage shift are correlated with the Arrhenius signature of the detected deep levels. An interpretation is proposed to explain the measurement results.