bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biochemical Markers of Calcium and Bone Metabolism during and after Lactation in Ugandan Women with HIV on Universal Maternal Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Nabwire Florence , Hamill Matthew M. , Fowler Mary Glenn , Byamugisha Josaphat , Kekitiinwa Adeodata , Prentice Ann
Published: June 2023

We reported accentuated lactational decreases in areal bone mineral density and only partial skeletal recovery after lactation in Ugandan women with HIV (WWH) initiated on tenofovir disoproxil fumarate‐based antiretroviral therapy (TDF‐based ART) during pregnancy compared to women without HIV (REF). WWH also had higher breast milk calcium in the first months of lactation. To investigate the mechanisms, we measured bone turnover markers (bone resorption: C‐terminal telopeptide [CTX]; bone formation: procollagen type 1 N‐terminal propeptide [P1NP], bone‐specific and total alkaline phosphatase [BALP, TALP]), hormones (parathyroid hormone [PTH], intact fibroblast growth factor 23 [FGF23], 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D]), vitamin D status (25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25OHD]), and indices of mineral metabolism and renal function. Blood and urine samples collected at 36 weeks of gestation, 14 and 26 weeks of lactation, and 3–6 months after lactation were analyzed. Mean 25OHD was >50 nmol/L throughout. Both groups experienced similar biochemical changes during pregnancy and lactation to women in other settings, but within these patterns, the two groups differed significantly. Notably, WWH had higher PTH (+31%) and lower 1,25(OH)2D (−9%) and TmP/GFR (−9%) throughout, lower P1NP (−27%) and plasma phosphate (−10%) in pregnancy, higher CTX (+15%) and BALP (+19%), and lower eGFR (−4%) during and after lactation. P1NP/CTX ratio was lower in WWH than REF in pregnancy (−21%), less so in lactation (−15%), and similar after lactation. Additionally, WWH had lower plasma calcium (−5%), lower FGF23 (−16%) and fasting urinary calcium (−34%) at one or both lactation timepoints, and higher fasting urinary phosphate (+22%) at 26 weeks of lactation and after lactation. These differences resemble reported TDF effects, especially raised PTH, increased bone resorption, decreased bone formation, and decreased renal function, and may explain the observed differences in bone mineral density and breast milk calcium. Further studies are needed to determine whether HIV and TDF‐based ART have long‐term consequences for maternal bone health and offspring growth. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
An approach based on genetic algorithms and machine learning coupled for studying alloy and molecular clusters by optimizing quantum energy surfaces
Authors: Rezende Umar Lucio , De Souza Leonardo A. , Belchior Jadson C.
Published: June 2023

A new genetic algorithm has been proposed focusing on direct ab initio potential energy surface (PES) global minima search. Besides the commonly used operators, this new approach uses an operator to: improve the initial cluster generation, classify and compare all generated clusters, and use machine learning to model the quantum PES used in parallel optimization. Part of the validation process for this methodology was done with ( for ) and (, and 75). The results are in fair agreement with the literature and led to a new global minimum for . A search has been done for the lowest energies of nanoclusters with 2–8 atoms using the DFT approach and for , using DLPNO‐CCSD(T) approach. NQGA successfully performed the MP2 optimizations for cluster. In all cases, the proposed genetic algorithm located the previously reported global minima with very efficient performance. The new proposed methodology makes it possible to optimize cluster geometries directly using high‐level ab initio methods relinquishing any bias introduced by a classical approach. Our results show that this proposed method has great potential applications due to its flexibility and efficiency in identifying global minima in the tested atomic systems.
PARP12 regulates mouse oocyte meiotic maturation
Authors: Cao Guangyi , Guo Ruirui , Chen Manqi , Sun Chuanbo , Wang Jichang
Published: June 2023

Poly(ADP‐ribosyl)ation (PARylation) is an important post‐translational modification of proteins that involves the transfer of ADP‐ribose moieties, and plays important roles in many biological processes including DNA repair, gene expression, RNA processing, ribosome biogenesis, and protein translation. Though it is accepted that PARylation is crucial for oocyte maturation, little is known about how Mono(ADP‐ribosyl)ation (MARylation) regulates this process. Here, we report that Parp12, a mon(ADP‐ribosyl) transferase of poly(ADP‐ribosyl) polymerase (PARP) family, was highly expressed at all stages of oocytes during meiotic maturation. At germinal vesicle (GV) stage, PARP12 was mainly distributed in cytoplasm. Interestingly, PARP12 formed granular aggregation near to spindle poles during metaphase I (MI) and metaphase II (MII). PARP12 depletion results in abnormal spindle organization and chromosome misalignment in mouse oocytes. Chromosome aneuploidy frequency in PARP12 knockdown oocytes was significantly increased. Importantly, PARP12 knockdown triggers activation of spindle assembly checkpoint as shown by active BUBR1 in PARP12‐KD MI oocytes. Besides, F actin was significantly attenuated in PARP12‐KD MI oocytes which may affect the asymmetric division process. Transcriptomic analysis demonstrated that PARP12 depletion disrupts transcriptome homeostasis. Collectively, our results showed that the maternally expressed mono(ADPribosyl) transferases PARP12 was essential for oocyte meiotic maturation in mouse.
Adapter dimer contamination in sRNA‐sequencing datasets predicts sequencing failure and batch effects and hampers extracellular vesicle‐sRNA analysis
Authors: Maqueda Joaquín J. , Giovanazzi Alberta , Rocha Ana Mafalda , Rocha Sara , Silva Isabel , Saraiva Nadine , Bonito Nuno , Carvalho Joana , Maia Luis , Wauben Marca H. M. , Oliveira Carla
Published: June 2023

Small RNA (sRNA) profiling of Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) by Next‐Generation Sequencing (NGS) often delivers poor outcomes, independently of reagents, platforms or pipelines used, which contributes to poor reproducibility of studies. Here we analysed pre/post‐sequencing quality controls (QC) to predict issues potentially biasing biological sRNA‐sequencing results from purified human milk EVs, human and mouse EV‐enriched plasma and human paraffin‐embedded tissues. Although different RNA isolation protocols and NGS platforms were used in these experiments, all datasets had samples characterized by a marked removal of reads after pre‐processing. The extent of read loss between individual samples within a dataset did not correlate with isolated RNA quantity or sequenced base quality. Rather, cDNA electropherograms revealed the presence of a constant peak whose intensity correlated with the degree of read loss and, remarkably, with the percentage of adapter dimers, which were found to be overrepresented sequences in high read‐loss samples. The analysis through a QC pipeline, which allowed us to monitor quality parameters in a step‐by‐step manner, provided compelling evidence that adapter dimer contamination was the main factor causing batch effects. We concluded this study by summarising peer‐reviewed published workflows that perform consistently well in avoiding adapter dimer contamination towards a greater likelihood of sequencing success.
Diagnostic value of the serum lactate level as a predictor of bacteremia in patients with acute cholangitis
Authors: Oura Hirotaka , Nishino Takayoshi , Murakami Daisuke , Shima Yukiko , Shirato Miho , Sugiyama Harutoshi , Arai Makoto
Published: June 2023

Background

Patients with acute cholangitis (AC) have increased mortality when associated with bacteremia. This study aimed to evaluate the predictive ability of serum lactate (Lac) for positive bacteremia in patients with acute cholangitis.

Methods

In this single‐center, retrospective study, 138 consecutive patients with AC were analyzed. Their blood samples were collected and Lac was measured.

Results

A total of 50 patients showed grade I, 50 showed grade II, and 38 showed grade III severity according to the Tokyo Guidelines 2018. Positive bacteremia was observed in 71 patients, of which 15 showed grade I, 25 showed grade II, and 31 showed grade III severity. Logistic regression analysis showed that Lac was a significant predictor of bacteremia. The area under the curve of Lac and procalcitonin (PCT) for bacteremia were 0.737 and 0.780, respectively. The optimal cutoff values for bacteremia were 17 mg/dL and 2.8 ng/mL, with sensitivity of 69.0% and 68.3%, respectively. Sensitivity of Lac and PCT for bacteremia in grade I was 58.3% and 25.0%, respectively. Three patients died from AC, all of whom were positive for bacteremia and hyperlactatemia.

Conclusion

Lac is useful for predicting bacteremia in patients with AC.
The role of genetic testing in the prevention, diagnosis, and prognosis of sudden cardiac arrest in children
Authors: Blich Miry , Oron Hodaya , Darawsha Wisam , Suleiman Mahmoud , Gepstein Lior , Boulos Monther , Lorber Avraham , Kchoury Asaad
Published: June 2023

Background

Determining the pathogenesis of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in children is crucial for its management and prognosis. Our aim is to analyze the role of broad genetic testing in the prevention, diagnosis, and prognosis of SCA in Children.

Methods

ECG, 12‐lead holter, exercise testing, cardiac imaging, familial study, and genetic testing were used to study 29 families, in whom a child experienced SCA.

Results

After a thorough clinical and genetic evaluation a positive diagnosis was reached in 24/29 (83%) families. Inherited channelopathies (long QT syndrome and catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia) were the most prevalent 20/29 (69%) diagnosis, followed by cardiomyopathy 3/29 (10%). Broad genetic testing was positive in 17/24 (71%) cases. Using the Mann–Whitney test, we found that genetic testing (effect size = 0.625, p = 0.003), ECG (effect size = 0.61, p = 0.009), and exercise test (effect size = 0.63, p = 0.047) had the highest yield in reaching the final diagnosis. Genetic testing was the only positive test available for five (17%) families. Among 155 family members evaluated through cascade screening, 73 (47%) had a positive clinical evaluation and 64 (41%) carried a pathologic mutation. During 6 ± 4.8 years of follow‐up, 58% of the survived children experienced an arrhythmic event. Of nine family members who had an ICD implant for primary prevention, four experienced appropriate ICD shock.

Conclusions

The major causes of SCA among children are genetic etiology, and genetic testing has a high yield. Family screening has an additional role in both the diagnosis and preventing of SCA.
microRNA‐1‐3p and T‐synthase mRNA have high diagnostic efficacy on intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction in patients with severe acute pancreatitis
Authors: Wu Wen‐Bo , Jiang Xiao‐Fei , Chen Ming‐Quan
Published: June 2023

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory disorder of the pancreas that can be complicated by intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction (SAP&IBD). The current study sought to examine the diagnostic efficacy of miR‐1‐3p and T‐synthase mRNA in SAP&IBD patients. First, SAP patients were assigned to SAP&IBD and SAP groups. Serum miR‐1‐3p expression and T‐synthase mRNA expression patterns in peripheral blood B lymphocytes were measured using RT‐qPCR. Pearson tests, ROC curve analysis, and multivariate logistic regression were used to analyze the correlation between miR‐1‐3p/T‐synthase mRNA and clinical data, their diagnostic efficiency, and independent risk factors for SAP&IBD patients, respectively. The results showed that serum miR‐1‐3p in the SAP&IBD group was elevated, and T‐synthase mRNA expression in peripheral blood B lymphocytes was diminished. Additionally, serum miR‐1‐3p expression in SAP&IBD patients was negatively correlated with T‐synthase mRNA expression, and positively correlated with their Ranson score, CRP, IL‐6, DAO, and D‐Lactate levels. Meanwhile, T‐synthase mRNA level was negatively correlated with IL‐6, DAO, and D‐Lactate levels. Both, serum miR‐1‐3p, T‐synthase mRNA, and their combination were found to exhibit diagnostic efficiency for SAP&IBD patients, and were independently associated with IBD in SAP patients. Collectively, our findings suggest that miR‐1‐3p and T‐synthase serve as independent risk factors for SAP&IBD patients and can aid the diagnosis of IBD in SAP patients.
Targeting KAT2A inhibits inflammatory macrophage activation and rheumatoid arthritis through epigenetic and metabolic reprogramming
Authors: Zhang Yunkai , Gao Ying , Ding Yingying , Jiang Yuyu , Chen Huiying , Zhan Zhenzhen , Liu Xingguang
Published: June 2023

Epigenetic regulation of inflammatory macrophages governs inflammation initiation and resolution in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Nevertheless, the mechanisms underlying macrophage‐mediated arthritis injuries remain largely obscure. Here, we found that increased expression of lysine acetyltransferase 2A (KAT2A) in synovial tissues was closely correlated with inflammatory joint immunopathology in both RA patients and experimental arthritis mice. Administration of MB‐3, the KAT2A‐specific chemical inhibitor, significantly ameliorated the synovitis and bone destruction in collagen‐induced arthritis model. Both pharmacological inhibition and siRNA silencing of KAT2A, not only suppressed innate stimuli‐triggered proinflammatory gene (such as Il1b and Nlrp3) transcription but also impaired NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, KAT2A facilitated macrophage glycolysis reprogramming through suppressing nuclear factor‐erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (NRF2) activity as well as downstream antioxidant molecules, which supported histone 3 lysine 9 acetylation (H3K9ac) and limited NRF2‐mediated transcriptional repression of proinflammatory genes. Our study proves that acetyltransferase KAT2A licenses metabolic and epigenetic reprogramming for NLRP3 inflammasome activation in inflammatory macrophages, thereby targeting KAT2A represents a potential therapeutic approach for patients suffering from RA and relevant inflammatory diseases.
Family centered nursing practices towards women and their families in the birthing context: A qualitative systematic review
Authors: Landry Isabelle , René Caroline , Demontigny Francine
Published: June 2023

Aim

Synthesize qualitative evidence examining how nurses' attitudes, beliefs, and sense of efficacy and the context surrounding birth facilitate or hinder family‐centered nursing practice.

Design

Thematic synthesis of qualitative studies.

Methods

A literature search was conducted in CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, SCOPUS, SCIENCE DIRECT, REPÈRES, CAIRN, and ÉRUDIT from October 2020 to June 2021. The PRISMA guidelines were followed, and studies were critically appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers, and Thomas and Harden's qualitative thematic synthesis method was performed for data analysis.

Results

Thirteen studies were included. Three analytical themes were generated: (1) sharing power: opposing beliefs, (2) feeling a sense of efficacy in fulfilling one's role, and (3) managing a challenging work environment.

Patient or Public Contribution

Synthesizing nurses' experience is essential to promote implementation of favourable changes for care that is more focused on the needs of families.
The association of soluble cluster of differentiation 36 with metabolic diseases: A potential biomarker and therapeutic target
Authors: Li Yun , Chen Yaxi , Ruan Xiong Z.
Published: June 2023

A cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36), also known as fatty acid translocase, plays an important role in developing and progressing metabolic diseases. Soluble CD36 (sCD36), a circulating form of CD36, is identified in human plasma. Current studies have demonstrated that sCD36 is an early biomarker of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and atherosclerosis risk and may act as a key molecule in organ cross‐talks directly or indirectly. This review summarizes the cell sources, molecular structure, potential production mechanism, functions, and regulators of sCD36. We highlight the association of sCD36 with hyperlipidemia, metabolic inflammation, T2DM, cardiovascular disease, non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease, diabetic kidney disease, and obesity. These studies suggest that sCD36 could be a useful biomarker for metabolic diseases in children and a potential therapeutic target in preventing metabolic diseases.
Nitrile rubber/peroxide treatment transformed recycled polyethylene into mechanically improved materials
Authors: Ghosh Arun , Kannan Ashik Cheruvathery
Published: June 2023

The recycled high‐density polyethylene (rHDPE) feedstock containing calcium carbonate (CaCO3) mineral was obtained from post‐consumer single‐use grocery bags. This feedstock is transformed into new composite materials with improved mechanical properties using a high‐shear compounding process. The rHDPE/CaCO3 feedstock is injected into the high‐shear polymer mixer and blended with acrylonitrile‐butadiene copolymer or nitrile rubber (up to 10 wt%) and crosslinked with dicumyl peroxide. The resultant materials exhibit high mechanical performance, with a maximum tensile strength of 20.3 MPa, stiffness of 1262 MPa, and impact strength of 63 kJ/m2. These mechanical properties are profoundly higher than those of neat rHDPE feedstock. Notably, the post‐consumer plastic bags contain a high amount of CaCO3 mineral of approximately 30 wt% (13 vol%), impacting the materials' mechanical properties with additives such as nitrile rubber. In addition, the materials' melt‐rheology, viscoelastic, and phase morphology are analyzed. The melt‐rheological characteristics indicate that the materials' complex viscosity and storage modulus are frequency‐dependent, demonstrating the thermoplastic nature of the composite materials and the possibility of thermomechanical recyclability of the materials. However, treating rHDPE/nitrile rubber blends with peroxide creates resistance to the melt‐flow of the materials.
School‐based interventions promoting social capabilities among students: A scoping review of literature
Authors: Ansari Aisha Naz , Rizvi Nusrat Fatima
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a scoping review of existing literature published between 2010 and 2022 on the role of schools in promoting social capabilities among students. It aims to map the evidence regarding the school programmes or interventions that are practised across the globe to promote psycho‐socio‐emotional skills among students. The review indicates a broad scope of  social interventions with limited evidence on interventions promoting social capabilities. Notably, both formal and non‐formal programmes are being offered in schools to foster social–emotional learning, self‐awareness (e.g., self‐regulation, resilience and forgiveness in attitude, and mental health awareness), and pro‐social behaviour development (e.g., positive behaviour, mindfulness, management and support, parental involvement, mentorship, sports and animal protection). This review highlights substantially encouraging effect of interventions for promoting social capabilities among students. However, the short‐term nature of programmes hardly allows the sustainability of acquired skills and behaviours among students. Additionally, the review identified a contextual gap in developing countries, including Pakistan. Therefore, it suggests the integration of such programmes in school policies and curricula, after contextualising, to ensure their regularity and sustaining psycho‐socio‐emotional skills. This recommends the development, and execution of an intervention that encompasses all the components of social capabilities collectively, along with examining its efficacy.

Context and implications

Rationale of the review

This scoping review aims to capture the scope and map the existing evidence regarding school‐based interventions to promote psycho‐socio‐emotional development among students.

Why new findings matter

The review provided valuable insights into the significance and necessity of psycho‐socio‐emotional development for students, which is essential in today's world. The lack of evidence from developing countries is found that needs critical attention. The findings contribute to the future of holistic development through the contextual adaptation of practiced interventions in developing contexts like Pakistan.

Implications for researchers and policymakers

The emerging findings imply the need for understanding the importance of developing psycho‐socio‐emotional skills collectively among students as part of the school experience. The implications extend to various stakeholders, including policymakers and school practitioners, who need to prioritise the holistic development of students throughout their formal education. Furthermore, this review is a call for researchers to develop, implement and evaluate the effectiveness of such interventions tailored to the specific needs of developing contexts, where there is currently a lack of evidence of school‐based initiatives.
The climate and land use change nexus: Implications for designing adaptation and conservation investment strategies in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Bosma Charissa , Hein Lars
Published: June 2023

Climate change and land use change are two global and interacting forces of change that have wide‐reaching effects on socio‐ecological systems. Despite their interconnectedness, the two are mostly considered separately in investment programs. Therefore, without an integrated systemic approach that considers these interactions, we will fail to achieve the ambitions to deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals. By integrating the Driver‐Pressure‐State‐Impact‐Response framework and the System of Environmental‐Economic Accounts Ecosystem Accounting, this paper assesses how the interlinkages between climate change and land use change can be jointly considered in the design of climate adaptation and ecosystem conservation investments. The analysis points to the following priorities for interventions in an integrated approach: forest conservation, protection of peatlands, climate‐smart agriculture, and restoration of degraded lands. The paper furthermore suggests a set of systemic investment principles that can contribute to capital allocation for climate adaptation and conservation.
Filament‐Based Melt Electrowriting Enables Dual‐Mode Additive Manufacturing for Multiscale Constructs
Authors: Mueller Kilian Maria Arthur , Hangleiter Annika , Burkhardt Sarah , Rojas-González Diana Marcela , Kwade Christina , Pammer Sebastian Tobias , Leonhardt Stefan , Mela Petra
Published: June 2023

Melt electrowriting (MEW) is an electric‐field‐assisted fiber‐forming biofabrication strategy for the additive manufacturing (AM) of precisely defined 3D microarchitectures. MEW is based on pressure‐driven extrusion of a polymer melt pool, currently mainly implemented at laboratory scale with specialized machine technology and limited to only few materials. This precludes the accessibility of MEW to a broader user group and can become the bottleneck of MEW's technological advancement. In contrast to conventional MEW, a filament‐based approach (F‐MEW) is introduced that exploits the technological ecosystem of fused filament fabrication (FFF), a globally used transformative AM technique. In this work, a polymer filament serves as feedstock material and is melted just on demand. By upgrading existing FFF systems, MEW of polymer microfibers is enabled, as validated with polycaprolactone (PCL) and demonstrated with direct writing of thermosensitive polydioxanone (PDO). Finally, FFF and F‐MEW are hybridized in a dual‐mode AM process. This enables multiscale constructs featuring both FFF struts and one order of magnitude smaller F‐MEW microfibers. This work opens the accessibility of F‐MEW to the large FFF user group, potentially benefitting from the plethora of filaments available for FFF, while, at the same time, expanding the FFF fabrication window.
Sensing Dynamically Evolved Short‐Range Nanomechanical Forces in Fast‐Mutating Single Viral Spike Proteins
Authors: Payam Amir Farokh , Funari Riccardo , Scamarcio Gaetano , Bhalla Nikhil
Published: June 2023

Understanding changes in the mechanical features of a single protein from a mutated virus while establishing its relation to the point mutations is critical in developing new inhibitory routes to tackle the uncontrollable spread of the virus. Addressing this, herein, the chemomechanical features of a single spike protein are quantified from alpha, beta, and gamma variants of SARS‐CoV‐2. Integrated amplitude‐modulation atomic force microscopy is used with dynamic force–distance curve (FDC) spectroscopy, in combination with theoretical models, to quantify Young's modulus, stiffness, adhesion forces, van der Waals forces, and the dissipative energy of single spike proteins. These obtained nanomechanical properties can be correlated with mutations in the individual proteins. Therefore, this work opens new possibilities to understand how the mechanical properties of a single spike protein relate to the viral functions. Additionally, single‐protein nanomechanical experiments enable a variety of applications that, collectively, may build up a new portfolio of understanding protein biochemistry during the evolution of viruses.
Rebordering, Forced Migration and Population Health Crises, 1988–1994
Authors: Hirschfeld Katherine , de Beurs Kirsten , Brayfield Brad , Melkonyan-Gottschalk Ani
Published: June 2023

This chapter explores the population health crises that emerged as a result of the Karabakh conflict in the early 1990s. In addition to malaria, Armenia endured epidemics of measles, diphtheria, hepatitis and tuberculosis during this conflict. Most public services (including public health) collapsed after the disintegration of the USSR. The uncertainty of geopolitical boundaries during the conflict meant that some areas endured prolonged conditions of statelessness and “rebordering” that led to abandoned farmland, interruptions in agricultural production and massive population dislocations. Thousands of refugees were housed in poorly equipped camps for years while the conflict expanded. These conditions created tremendous vulnerability to epidemics of infectious disease.
Covariant orbital-spin scheme for any spin based on irreducible tensor
Authors: Jing Hao-Jie , Ben Di , Wu Shu-Ming , Wu Jia-Jun , Zou Bing-Song
Published: June 2023

Abstract

In hadron spectrum physics, the partial wave analysis is a primary method used to extract properties of hadronic resonances. The covariant orbital-spin coupling scheme holds unique advantages over other partial wave methods due to its Lorentz covariant form and determined orbital-spin quantum numbers. This paper presents a general form of the covariant orbital-spin coupling scheme based on the irreducible tensor of the homogeneous proper Lorentz group and its little groups. A systematic procedure for constructing partial wave amplitude in a Lorentz covariant way is provided, which can be applied to both massive and massless particles. Specific examples are also included.
Exponential polynomials and the sine addition law on magmas
Authors: Stetkær Henrik
Published: June 2023

For any set X we let $${\mathcal {F}}(X)$$

F
(
X
)

denote the complex vector space of functions $$f: X \rightarrow \mathbb {C}$$

f
:
X
→
C

. Let $$X = S$$

X
=
S

be a magma, and let V be a subspace of $${\mathcal {F}}(S)$$

F
(
S
)

, which is invariant under left or right translations. It is known for an abelian group S that if $$p_1\chi _1, \dots , p_n\chi _n \in {\mathcal {F}}(S)$$

p
1

χ
1

,
⋯
,

p
n

χ
n

∈
F

(
S
)

are nonzero exponential polynomials with distinct exponentials $$\chi _1, \dots , \chi _n$$

χ
1

,
⋯
,

χ
n

then $$p_1\chi _1+ \dots + p_n\chi _n \in V$$

p
1

χ
1

+
⋯
+

p
n

χ
n

∈
V

$$\Rightarrow $$
⇒
$$p_1\chi _1, \dots , p_n\chi _n \in V$$

p
1

χ
1

,
⋯
,

p
n

χ
n

∈
V

and $$\chi _1, \dots , \chi _n \in V$$

χ
1

,
⋯
,

χ
n

∈
V

. We extend this to magmas. Our results imply that any exponential polynomial solution $$f \in {\mathcal {F}}(S)$$

f
∈
F
(
S
)

of $$f(xy) = f(x)\chi (y) + \chi (x)f(y)$$

f
(
x
y
)
=
f
(
x
)
χ
(
y
)
+
χ
(
x
)
f
(
y
)

where $$\chi \in {\mathcal {F}}(S)$$

χ
∈
F
(
S
)

is an exponential, has the form $$f = a\chi $$

f
=
a
χ

where $$a \in {\mathcal {F}}(S)$$

a
∈
F
(
S
)

is additive, even when $$\chi $$
χ
has zeros.
Optimal fibular tunnel direction for anterior talofibular ligament reconstruction: 45 degrees outperforms 30 and 60 degrees
Authors: Liu Cheng‐Xiao , Zhang Zheng‐Zheng , Wang Jing‐Song , Luo Xi‐Yuan , Liu Tian‐Yu , Ma Yu‐Fan , Deng Xing‐Hao , Zhou Yun‐Feng , Xu Da‐Zheng , Li Wei‐Ping , Wang Peng , Song Bin
Published: June 2023

Purpose

There is currently no consensus on the optimal drilling direction of the fibular bone tunnel for anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) reconstruction, and few studies have investigated the potential injury to the peroneus longus and brevis tendons and the possibility of fibular fractures during the drilling process. The aim of this study was to assess the potential risk of drilling the tunnel from different directions and determine the most appropriate tunnel direction. The hypothesis was that drilling the tunnel in the 45‐degree direction would be the safest and most suitable for the fibular tunnel.

Methods

Forty‐eight fibular tunnels were drilled on fresh ankle specimens using a K‐wire guide and a 5.0 mm hollow drill. Three tunnel orientations were created, parallel to the sagittal plane of the long axis of the fibula and angled 30°, 45°, and 60° to the coronal plane. The length of the fibular tunnel and the distances from the outlet of the K‐wire to the peroneus longus and brevis tendons were measured. The occurrence of a fibula fracture was also observed.

Results

The lengths of the bone tunnels in the three groups were 32.9 ± 6.1 mm (30°), 27.2 ± 4.4 mm (45°) and 23.6 ± 4.0 mm (60°). The length of the tunnel drilled at 30° was the longest when compared with that of the tunnels drilled at 45° and 60° (all p values < 0.05). The distances from the outlet of the K‐wire to the peroneus longus tendon were 3.0 ± 3.8 mm (30°), 3.8 ± 3.2 mm (45°) and 5.3 ± 1.8 mm (60°), and the distances to the peroneus brevis tendon were 4.2 ± 4.0 mm (30°), 6.1 ± 3.8 mm (45°), 7.9 ± 3.5 mm (60°). In terms of protecting the peroneus longus and brevis tendons, drilling in the 60° direction was better than drilling in the 30° and 45° directions (all p values < 0.05). The risk of injury to the peroneal longus and brevis tendons was 62.5% (30°), 31.3% (45°), and 0% (60°). Although no fibular fractures were observed in any of the three directions, drilling the bone tunnel in the 60° direction disrupted the lateral cortex of the fibula.

Conclusion

This study shows that drilling the tunnel in the 45° direction is less likely to cause injury to the peroneus longus and brevis tendons, while ensuring that the tunnel has a sufficient length and avoiding fracturing the distal fibula. Drilling a fibular bone tunnel in a 45° direction is safer and recommended for ATFL reconstruction.
Mechanical and microstructural characterization of aluminium micro-pins realized by cold metal transfer
Authors: Schneider-Bröskamp Christian , Schnall Martin , Birgmann Alois , Ucsnik Stephan
Published: June 2023

The European collaborative research project ADALFIC (Advanced Aluminium Fittings in CFRP tubes) focuses on the design, analysis, manufacturing and testing of ultra-lightweight carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) tubes with integrated aluminium end fittings. Reliable joining technologies for combining aluminium and CFRP are of great interest since the combination of superior mechanical properties and low density offer a wide range of applications. One such approach is the use of form locking micro-pins on the surface of the metallic part enabling the joint between metal and CFRP by mechanical interlocking. In this work Fronius’ Cold-Metal-Transfer (CMT) Print welding technology was used to generate very small, minimum-mass, spike-head pins, which are optimized for form-locked joints between aluminium and CFRP components. The aluminium pins are characterized on a macroscopic and microscopic level using light optical microscopy and hardness testing. To evaluate the behavior of the pins under mode II load conditions a new shear testing method for pins was developed and implemented. With this test equipment the maximum shear force and ultimate shear strength of individual pins were measured at different temperatures and heat treatment conditions. The failure modes and fracture surfaces were analyzed via scanning electron microscopy. The results demonstrate that the novel spike-head CMT aluminium pins can withstand considerable shear forces, especially in the peak aged condition. This makes them a viable, flexible and lightweight option for form-locked aluminium-CFRP joints.
Prey availability influences the effect of boldness on reproductive success in a mammalian predator
Authors: Clermont Jeanne , Couchoux Charline , Lai Sandra , Berteaux Dominique
Published: June 2023

Boldness is an important trait in wild populations, and among-individual differences can link to individual fitness. The strength and direction of relationships between behavioral and life-history traits may however vary according to environmental conditions, where fluctuating selection acting on behavioral traits contributes to the maintenance of personality differences. We explored sources of variation in Arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) boldness and investigated how temporal variation in the abundance of a main prey (lemmings) influences the relationship between fox boldness and reproductive success. We measured the behavioral reaction of individuals when escaping after handling, as an indicator of their boldness. We obtained 70 measurements from 42 individuals during two years of low lemming abundance and 2 years of high lemming abundance and assessed fox litter size as an indicator of reproductive success. First, individual characteristics (age, sex, mass) did not affect Arctic fox boldness, while individual identity generated variation in boldness. Next, we found that during years of low lemming density, individuals behaving boldly had more pups than those behaving less boldly, suggesting boldness may provide an advantage when lemmings are scarce by increasing hunting success or allowing access to alternative resources. However, all individuals tended to show high levels of boldness when lemming density was high, and all produced large litters. Temporal variation in the abundance of a main prey might therefore influence the relation between boldness and reproductive success of a predator, and if individuals consistently differ in their level of boldness, fluctuating selection could contribute to the maintenance of personality.

Significance statement

Effects of boldness on Arctic fox reproductive success: lemming abundance matters! When lemmings are scarce, foxes showing bold behavior have more pups than foxes showing less bold behavior. This highlights that under low prey availability, boldness may bring short-term benefits to predators, potentially because it allows to acquire more food. When lemmings are abundant, however, all foxes produce as many pups. This shows that environmental conditions such as prey abundance can influence the relation between behavior and reproductive success in a predator. Studying the context-dependency of relationships between behavior and reproductive success is critical to better understand ecological and evolutionary consequences of environmental change.
Validation of a novel 3-dimensional classification for degenerative arthritis of the shoulder
Authors: Kleim Benjamin D. , Lappen Sebastian , Kadantsev Pavel , Degenhardt Hannes , Fritsch Lorenz , Siebenlist Sebastian , Hinz Maximilian
Published: June 2023

Introduction

A novel three-dimensional classification to comprehensively describe degenerative arthritis of the shoulder (DAS) was recently published by our group. The purpose of the present work was to investigate intra- and interobserver agreement as well as validity for the three-dimensional classification.

Materials and methods

Preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans of 100 patients who had undergone shoulder arthroplasty for DAS were randomly selected. Four observers independently classified the CT scans twice, with an interval of 4 weeks, after prior three-dimensional reconstruction of the scapula plane using a clinical image viewing software. Shoulders were classified according to biplanar humeroscapular alignment as posterior, centered or anterior (> 20% posterior, centered, > 5% anterior subluxation of humeral head radius) and superior, centered or inferior (> 5% inferior, centered, > 20% superior subluxation of humeral head radius). Glenoid erosion was graded 1–3. Gold-standard values based on precise measurements from the primary study were used for validity calculations. Observers timed themselves during classification. Cohen’s weighted κ was employed for agreement analysis.

Results

Intraobserver agreement was substantial (κ = 0.71). Interobserver agreement was moderate with a mean κ of 0.46. When the additional descriptors extra-posterior and extra-superior were included, agreement did not change substantially (κ = 0.44). When agreement for biplanar alignment alone was analyzed, κ was 0.55. The validity analysis reached moderate agreement (κ = 0.48). Observers took on average 2 min and 47 s (range 45 s to 4 min and 1 s) per CT for classification.

Conclusions

The three-dimensional classification for DAS is valid. Despite being more comprehensive, the classification shows intra- and interobserver agreement comparable to previously established classifications for DAS. Being quantifiable, this has potential for improvement with automated algorithm-based software analysis in the future. The classification can be applied in under 5 min and thus can be used in clinical practice.
Finite element implementation of a certain class of elasto-viscoplastic constitutive models
Authors: Suchocki Cyprian
Published: June 2023

In this paper a selected type of elasto-viscoplastic constitutive equations is considered. The viscoplastic model which was proposed by Marquis is generalized by allowing multiple terms describing the isotropic and the kinematic hardening. Furthermore, the presented model formulation enables one to use an arbitrary equivalent plastic strain function to describe the isotropic hardening behavior. What is more, the backstress evolution equation which was proposed by Marquis was modified so that any equivalent plastic strain function can be used in the recovery term now. The general form of the generalized constitutive model obtained this way was subsequently implemented into the finite element method (FEM). For that purpose, the radial-return mapping algorithm was utilized. The consistent tangent operator was derived for the considered class of models and is presented in the paper. A developed user material subroutine (UMAT) which allows one to use the viscoplastic models under consideration in the FEM program CalculiX is attached in the appendix section. A number of numerical simulations were conducted in order to verify the performance of the developed UMAT code.
Binder jetting in gears
Authors: Klee Lukas , Bergs Thomas , Solf Mareike , Brimmers Jens
Published: June 2023

Due to near netshape production, powder metallurgically manufactured (PM) gears have a high potential to increase cost and resource efficiency. Compared to conventionally machined gears, the advantages of PM gears are the different local density distribution in the component and the potential integration of secondary design elements. These advantages are accompanied by the reduction of weight and the possibility of optimizing the NVH-behavior of a gear. PM gears may be manufactured by both, die pressing and additive manufacturing (AM). The powder bed-based additive manufacturing processes for metals can be classified into binder-based (e.g. Binder Jetting, BJT) and beam-based thermal processes (e.g. Laser Powder Bed Fusion, LPBF). Due to the specific process technology, the manufacturing of PM gears by die pressing is only economical for large batch sizes in series production. For small batches, AM offers an approach to manufacture gears that meet the requirements in terms of quality, strength, acoustics and economic efficiency of the manufacturing process.

This report describes the potential of BJT gears made of stainless steel 17-4PH (X5CrN-CuNb16-4) with a relative density of ρ0,rel ≈ 99% regarding the tooth bending strength. The reliability of the process and thus the tooth bending strength can be increased further by a specific adjustment of process parameters. Subsequently, the gears are tested with regard to the tooth bending strength on the pulsator test rig. The results are summarized in a SN-curve.
Dynamic demand and noncompetitive intertemporal output adjustments: correction and extension
Authors: Wirl Franz
Published: June 2023

While hundreds of papers study the strategic interactions of oligopolists facing sticky prices only very few treat the in my opinion more important and opposite case of sticky or sluggish demand and supply, e.g., for energy. This point was taken up in Wirl (Int J Ind Organ 28:220–229, 2010) but unfortunately, the computation of the linear Markov perfect equilibrium is wrong. The situation in energy markets following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine adds a topical element to the theoretical analysis. Application to the oil market suggests that the difference between collusion and oligopolistic competition among few (symmetric) players is small for Markov perfect linear eqilibria. This is in stark contrast to the outcome in open loop strategies.
Between economic openness and strategic caution: Germany’s response to China’s investment
Authors: Cai Yu-Han , Efstathopoulos Charalampos
Published: June 2023

Leading Western economies face major dilemmas regarding China’s rise as different geopolitical considerations and economic interests inform how such states engage China. This article seeks to understand Western approaches to China’s rise through an analysis of Germany’s response to Chinese investment. The discussion shows that the Sino-German relationship has increasingly been affected by rising Chinese investment in Germany that entails common benefits in technology and industrial policy. Despite enhanced economic opportunities, however, Germany’s position is gradually shifting to a more cautious approach due to increasing economic asymmetry and political uncertainty in Sino-German ties. The concerns of the German leadership are focused on the lack of reciprocity, the exposure of the EU to China’s influence, and the antagonistic positions of the two economic powers in the global economy, and are imposing limits on Germany’s cooperation with China.
Airline capacity distribution under financial budget and resource consideration
Authors: Zhou Jing
Published: June 2023

Capacity distribution is a challenging issue for an airline under financial budget and resource consideration. It is a large-scale optimization problem covering both long-term planning and short-term operating arrangements. This study investigates on the airline capacity distribution problem with financial budget and resource consideration. It contains subproblems of financial budget arrangement, fleet introduction, and fleet assignment. Among them, financial budget is arranged in multiple decision periods, fleet introduction is decided under fixed time points, while fleet assignment is decided under all available time points. To tackle this problem, an integer programming model is formulated for descriptions. Then, an integrated algorithm of modified Variable Neighborhood Search (VNS) and Branch-and-bound (B&B) strategy is developed to find solutions. In detail, a greedy heuristic approach is utilized to generate an initial solution for fleet introduction, the modified B&B strategy is utilized to generate the optimal solution for fleet assignment and the modified VNS is applied to update current solution for a new one with better quality. In addition, budget limit checks are added for financial budget arrangements. Finally, the hybrid algorithm is tested on efficiency and stability. It is also compared to other algorithms which replace the modified VNS by basic VNS, differential evolution and genetic algorithm. Computational results show that performance of our approach is powerful in terms of objective value, convergence speed and stability.
The Interpersonal Comparative View of Welfare: Its Merits and Flaws
Authors: Harney Jonas
Published: June 2023

According to the person-affecting view, the ethics of welfare should be cashed out in terms of how the individuals are affected. While the narrow version fails to solve the non-identity problem, the wide version is subject to the repugnant conclusion. A middle view promises to do better – the Interpersonal Comparative View of Welfare (ICV). It modifies the narrow view by abstracting away from individuals’ identities to account forinterpersonalgains and losses. The paper assesses ICV’s merits and flaws. ICV solves the non-identity problem, avoids the repugnant conclusion, and seems to accommodate the person-affecting intuition. But it cuts too many things along the way: ICV obstructs the advantage of the wide view to account for all future individuals’ welfare, abandons the intuitions that underlie the narrow view, and even violates its own presuppositions by turning out to be merely pseudo person-affecting.
Self-Adjointness of a Class of Multi-Spin–Boson Models with Ultraviolet Divergences
Authors: Lonigro Davide
Published: June 2023

We study a class of quantum Hamiltonian models describing a family ofNtwo-level systems (spins) coupled with a structured boson field of positive mass, with a rotating-wave coupling mediated by form factors possibly exhibiting ultraviolet divergences. Spin–spin interactions which do not modify the total number of excitations are also included. Generalizing previous results in the single-spin case, we provide explicit expressions for the self-adjointness domain and the resolvent of these models, both of them carrying an intricate dependence on the spin–field and spin–spin coupling via a family of concatenated propagators. This construction is also shown to be stable, in the norm resolvent sense, under approximations of the form factors via normalizable ones, for example an ultraviolet cutoff.
Towards augmented and mixed reality on future mobile networks
Authors: Cardoso Luís Fernando de Souza , Kimura Bruno Yuji Lino , Zorzal Ezequiel Roberto
Published: June 2023

Augmented and Mixed Reality (AR/MR) technologies enhance the human perception of the world by combining virtual and real environments. With the increase of mobile devices and the advent of 5G, this technology has the potential to become part of people’s life. This article aims to evaluate the impact of 5G and beyond mobile networks in the future of AR/MR. To attend to this objective, we surveyed four digital libraries to identify articles and reviews concerning AR/MR use based on mobile networks. The results describe the state-of-the-art of mobile AR/MR applications and the benefits and challenges of the technology. Finally, after the review, we propose a roadmap concerning AR/MR hardware and software development to run applications supported by future mobile networks.