bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceptions of poverty: Evaluating Multidimensional Poverty Assessment Tool derived rankings and global development indicators in five African nations
Authors: Minjauw Fanny , Rasheduzzaman Md , Baumgartner Philipp , Dorward Peter , Clarkson Graham , Cohen Alasdair
Published: February 2024

This study assessed an array of indicators for rural poverty assessments and evaluated use of the Multidimensional Poverty Assessment Tool (MPAT) as a proxy for commonly used indicators, such as the Human Development Index, Gross National Income, Global Hunger Index, and the Gender Inequality Index. MPAT data from 5322 rural households across five countries in Africa were analyzed. While MPAT aligned well with development indicators for Kenya, Lesotho, and Tanzania, this was not the case for Eswatini and Zimbabwe. Overall, MPAT‐based rankings correlated well with hunger, food security, and gender equality indicators. Our findings highlight the use of MPAT‐derived indices as valuable supplements for commonly used development indicators.
Prevalence of oral human papillomavirus infection among the general adult population in Hong Kong
Authors: Ho Wendy C. S. , Boon Siaw S. , Chong Ka Chun , Lai Christopher K. C. , Sze Ryan K. H. , Khan Aaron T. K. , Xing Rachel L. , Sukarom Isaya , Wu Ying‐Hui , Chau Rene W. Y. , Chan Paul K. S.
Published: February 2024

A cross‐sectional study in 2021−23 collected oral rinse gargle samples from an human papillomaviruses (HPV) vaccine‐naïve general adult population in Hong Kong. HPV was detected by a PCR using SPF10 primers, and genotyped by a linear array covering 25 genotypes. Epidemiologic information including sociodemographics, medical history, oral health, and sexual behavior were collected by a self‐administered questionnaire. Altogether, 2323 subjects aged 18−75 (median 47) years with 50.1% male were recruited. The prevalence for oral HPV infection with all genotypes combined, high‐risk, and low‐risk genotypes was 1.5%, 0.7%, and 0.7%, respectively; and with no statistically significant difference between participant gender. The prevalence increased with age and was highest in women at 45−54 years (2.7% for all genotypes combined), and highest in men aged >64 years (4.1% for all genotypes combined). HPV52 was the most common genotype among all participants. Univariate analysis suggested more lifetime sexual or oral sexual partners as risk factors, but they did not reach statistical significance upon multivariate analysis; whereas higher educational level had an independent protective effect. To conclude, oral HPV prevalence increased with age in Hong Kong. Strategies to prevent oral HPV infection and the associated cancers are urgently needed.
Classification of inertial sensor‐based gait patterns of orthopaedic conditions using machine learning: A pilot study
Authors: Dammeyer Constanze , Nüesch Corina , Visscher Rosa M. S. , Kim Yong K. , Ismailidis Petros , Wittauer Matthias , Stoffel Karl , Acklin Yves , Egloff Christian , Netzer Cordula , Mündermann Annegret
Published: February 2024

Elderly patients often have more than one disease that affects walking behavior. An objective tool to identify which disease is the main cause of functional limitations may aid clinical decision making. Therefore, we investigated whether gait patterns could be used to identify degenerative diseases using machine learning. Data were extracted from a clinical database that included sagittal joint angles and spatiotemporal parameters measured using seven inertial sensors, and anthropometric data of patients with unilateral knee or hip osteoarthritis, lumbar or cervical spinal stenosis, and healthy controls. Various classification models were explored using the MATLAB Classification Learner app, and the optimizable Support Vector Machine was chosen as the best performing model. The accuracy of discrimination between healthy and pathologic gait was 82.3%, indicating that it is possible to distinguish pathological from healthy gait. The accuracy of discrimination between the different degenerative diseases was 51.4%, indicating the similarities in gait patterns between diseases need to be further explored. Overall, the differences between pathologic and healthy gait are distinct enough to classify using a classical machine learning model; however, routinely recorded gait characteristics and anthropometric data are not sufficient for successful discrimination of the degenerative diseases.
Association between energy delivery from parenteral nutrition and refeeding syndrome in hospitalized adults: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Apiromruck Nichakarn , Kano Hasma , Taemkaew Kittithat , Ingviya Thammasin , Intusoma Utcharee , Churuangsuk Chaitong
Published: February 2024

Background

Patients receiving parenteral nutrition (PN) may develop refeeding syndrome (RFS). This study determined RFS prevalence in hospitalized adults on PN and evaluated whether higher energy delivered by PN on day 1 of PN initiation was associated with RFS development.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of adult patients receiving PN at a Thai quaternary hospital from June 2019 to May 2022. RFS was defined based on the Nutrition Management Clinical Practice Recommendation by the Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition of Thailand. The association between PN energy delivery and RFS development was determined using a generalized estimating equation for multiple logistic regression analysis adjusted for NICE guideline risk factors.

Results

A total of 547 patients was included (mean age 59.8 ± 17.2 years, mean body mass index 20.7 ± 4.8 ). The prevalence of RFS was 45%. Factors associated with RFS included energy from PN on the first day of PN initiation (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.17; 95% CI 1.04–1.33; for every 5 kcal/kg/day increase), starvation >5 days prior to PN (aOR 1.54; 95% CI 1.04–2.26), concomitant diuretic use (aOR 1.81; 95% CI 1.25–2.64), low baseline potassium level (aOR 1.79; 95% CI 1.19–2.70), and individual compounding PN (aOR 1.61; 95% CI 1.04–2.51).

Conclusion

RFS was common among hospitalized patients receiving PN. The amount of energy delivered on the first day of PN was independently associated with RFS, raising a concern regarding initiation of PN with higher energy.
Risk factors for reoperation for arthrofibrosis following primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Rahardja Richard , Love Hamish , Clatworthy Mark G. , Young Simon W.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify the rate and risk factors for a reoperation for arthrofibrosis following primary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

Methods

Prospective data recorded in the New Zealand ACL Registry were cross‐referenced with data from the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC). Primary ACL reconstructions performed between April 2014 and May 2021 were analysed. The ACC database was used to identify patients who underwent a reoperation for a diagnosis of arthrofibrosis. Multivariable survival analysis was performed to compute adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) and 95% confidence intervals.

Results

A total of 12,296 primary ACL reconstructions were analysed, of which 230 underwent a reoperation for arthrofibrosis (1.9%) at a mean follow‐up of 3.6 years. A higher risk of arthrofibrosis was observed in females (aHR = 1.76, p = 0.001), patients with a history of previous knee surgery (aHR = 1.82, p = 0.04) and when a transtibial drilling technique was used (aHR = 1.53, p = 0.03). ACL reconstruction >6 months after injury had the lowest rate of arthrofibrosis (1.3%, aHR = 0.45, p = 0.01). There was no difference in risk between early surgery within 6 weeks versus delayed surgery between 6 weeks and 6 months after injury (2.9% versus 2.1%, aHR = 0.78, not significant).

Conclusion

Female sex, previous knee surgery and a transtibial drilling technique increased the risk of reoperation for arthrofibrosis. Early surgery within 6 weeks of injury was not associated with an increased risk when compared with surgery between 6 weeks and 6 months after injury.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Giant Photon‐Drag‐Induced Ultrafast Photocurrent in Diamond for Nonlinear Photonics
Authors: Xue Xinyi , Du Wanyi , Tao Wei , Huang Yuanyuan , Lei Zhen , Zhu Lipeng , Zou Yuxiao , Liu Ying , Liu Gangqin , Gu Changzhi , Li Yunliang , Quan Baogang , Xu Xinlong
Published: February 2024

Diamond is emerging as an attractive third‐generation wide‐bandgap semiconductor for future on‐chip nonlinear photonics and quantum optics due to its unique thermal, optical, and mechanical properties. However, the light‐driven current under below‐band gap excitation from the second‐order nonlinear optical effect in diamond is still challenging. Herein, a giant second‐order nonlinear photocurrent is observed in the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) diamond by utilizing terahertz (THz) emission spectroscopy. This ultrafast photocurrent originates from the photon drag effect (PDE), during which the momentum transfer from the incident photons to the charge carriers at the rich grain boundaries of the CVD diamond after the exclusive subgap π–π* transition upon femtosecond laser excitation. Especially, the interplay between circular and linear PDE to the THz generation is clarified and distinguished under elliptically polarized light excitation. Furthermore, the picosecond ultrafast dynamics of these charge carriers are also verified by infrared spectroscopy. Owing to the giant photon‐drag‐induced ultrafast photocurrent, the CVD diamond presents the highest THz emission efficiency compared with the reported carbon allotropes, which expands the new functionality of diamond nonlinear photonics into on‐chip THz devices.
Global Perceptions and Utilization of Clinical Neurophysiology in Movement Disorders
Authors: Kassavetis Panagiotis , Chen Robert , Ganos Christos , Hallett Mark , Hamada Masashi , Latorre Anna , Pal Pramod Kumar , Schwingenschuh Petra , Vial Felipe , Tijssen Marina A. , Merchant Shabbir
Published: February 2024

Background

Clinical neurophysiology (CNP) involves the use of neurophysiological techniques to make an accurate clinical diagnosis, to quantify the severity, and to measure the treatment response. Despite several studies showing CNP to be a useful diagnostic tool in Movement Disorders (MD), its more widespread utilization in clinical practice has been limited.

Objectives

To better understand the current availability, global perceptions, and challenges for implementation of diagnostic CNP in the clinical practice of MD.

Methods

The International Parkinson and Movement Disorders Society (IPMDS) formed a Task Force on CNP. The Task Force distributed an online survey via email to all the members of the IPMDS between August 5 and 30, 2021. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis of the survey results. Some results are presented by IPMDS geographical sections namely PanAmerican (PAS), European (ES), African (AFR), Asian and Oceanian (AOS).

Results

Four hundred and ninety‐one IPMDS members (52% males), from 196 countries, responded. The majority of responders from the AFR (65%) and PAS (63%) sections had no formal training in diagnostic CNP (40% for AOS and 37% for ES). The most commonly used techniques are electroencephalography (EEG) (72%) followed by surface EMG (71%). The majority of responders think that CNP is somewhat valuable or very valuable in the assessment of MD. All the sections identified “lack of training” as one of the biggest challenges for diagnostic CNP studies in MD.

Conclusions

CNP is perceived to be a useful diagnostic tool in MD. Several challenges were identified that prevent widespread utilization of CNP in MD.
Brainstem nuclei responsive to cystometry in both endometriosis and cystitis rat models: C‐fos immunohistochemistry study
Authors: Bashkami Ayah A. , Kaddumi Ezidin G. , Al‐Saghbini Mohamad , Kenana Afnan J.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Although the co‐occurrence of interstitial cystitis (IC) and endometriosis (ENDO) is remarkably high, the exact pathophysiology for this co‐occurrence is unknown. The convergence of the inputs from the involved structures to the same neuronal centers may suggest neuronal hyperexcitability as a mechanism for this co‐occurrence.

Methods

The present study aimed to investigate the association between IC and ENDO, by studying the changes in brainstem responses to cystometry in a rat model of ENDO and cyclophosphamide (CYP)‐induced IC using c‐fos immunohistochemistry.

Results

Following cystometry the brainstem areas that had significant increase in c‐fos expression in ENDO alone included: periaqueductal gray (PAG) nuclei, dorsal raphe nucleus, raphe obscurus nucleus, kolliker‐ Fuse areas, and area postrema. However, the brainstem areas that had increased significantly in the c‐fos expression in the ENDO and CYP treated animals included: gigantocellular nucleus, lateral paragigantocellular nucleus, caudoventrolateral nucleus, rostroventrolateral/caudoventrolateral nucleus, lateral reticular nucleus, locus coeruleus, lateral PAG, raphe pallidus nucleus, raphe magnus nucleus, rostroventrolateral nucleus, dorsal motor nucleus of vagus, and solitary tract nucleus. Whereas only lateral parabrachial nucleus showed significant increase in c‐fos expression in CYP treated animals alone.

Conclusions

The results of the present study demonstrate the overlap of brainstem nuclei that are excited by urinary bladder under ENDO and IC conditions. The pattern of hyperexcitability of the brainstem nuclei may help in understating the pathophysiology of IC and ENDO conditions.
A comprehensive dimensional analysis of waste‐derived reinforcements in interface interactions with semi‐bio‐based PA6,10 composites
Authors: Dericiler Kuray , Saner Okan Burcu
Published: February 2024

This study elucidates interfacial interactions in semi‐synthetic polyamides by applying dimensional analysis to graphene derived from waste sources like coffee, tires, and chopped carbon fiber resulting in lightweight and high‐performance composites. Graphene from tires in platelet form (GNP), graphene from coffee in spherical form (CWC), and carbon fiber bundles (CF) were incorporated into Polyamide 6,10 (PA6,10) with high‐shear mixer by examining the optimum loading ratio for each reinforcement through interface characterization. At the same loading ratios, specific flexural properties are significantly enhanced when employing high aspect ratio CF reinforcement, while the platelet structure of GNP is more effective in improving specific tensile properties. Additionally, the spherical graphene of CWC exhibited the highest crystallinity, along with CF. In addition, sustainable PA6,10‐based compounds reinforced with waste‐derived materials were compared to commercial synthetic PA6‐based compounds with similar thermal and mechanical characteristics. The research revealed that the addition of 20 wt% CWC to the PA6,10 matrix outperforms commercial synthetic compounds by providing lightweight in terms of specific tensile. The findings of this study demonstrate that effectively incorporating waste‐derived reinforcing materials into semi‐synthetic composites presents a promising strategy to improve performance and serve as viable alternatives to commercial products through tailored waste‐derived reinforcement, particularly in applications that require lightweight and robust load‐bearing capabilities.

Highlights

Waste‐based reinforcements are sustainable alternatives to synthetic materials

Size and aspect ratio of reinforcements give varying strengthening mechanisms

Tailorable mechanical performance through different waste‐based reinforcements

Waste‐based reinforcements offer lightweight for automotive composites

Lightweight and sustainable composites can replace commercial products
Viable and Stable Compact Stellar Structures in f(Q,T)$f(\mathcal {Q},\mathcal {T})$ Theory
Authors: Gul M. Zeeshan , Sharif M. , Arooj Adeeba
Published: February 2024

The main objective of this paper is to investigate the impact of gravity on the geometry of anisotropic compact stellar objects, where is non‐metricity and is the trace of the energy‐momentum tensor. In this perspective, the physically viable non‐singular solutions to examine the configuration of static spherically symmetric structures is used. A specific model of this theory to examine various physical quantities in the interior of the proposed compact stars (CSs) is considered. These quantities include fluid parameters, anisotropy, energy constraints, equation of state parameters, mass, compactness, and redshift. The Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkoff equation is used to examine the equilibrium state of stellar models, while the stability of the proposed CSs is investigated through sound speed and adiabatic index methods. It is found that the proposed CSs are viable and stable in the context of this theory.
Exploring the co‐activity of FDA approved drug gemcitabine and docetaxel for enhanced anti‐breast cancer activity: DFT, docking, molecular dynamics simulation and pharmacophore studies
Authors: Sukumaran Sureba , Zochedh Azar , Chandran Kaliraj , Sultan Asath Bahadur , Kathiresan Thandavarayan
Published: February 2024

Combining FDA‐approved medications may increase biological activity by simultaneously targeting many protein mechanisms while being less toxic. Gemcitabine and docetaxel together might have a synergistic impact that kills cancer cells and makes them more effective against breast cancer. This study used the foundation set B3LYP/6–311 G to optimize the gemcitabine with the docetaxel structure that was created. Theoretical calculations were made for the ultraviolet to visible spectrum were studied in gas and liquid phase. The structural stability and reactivity of the combined structure were studied using the energy gap between HOMO and LUMO, and the computed energy gap (ΔE) was 4.219 eV. The electrostatic potential of complex structure was determined and the Mulliken charge population was evaluated. Through RDG analysis weak interactions of GEDT was evaluated and topology properties were studied through ELF and LOL analysis. Breast cancer target proteins were utilized in the molecular docking studies. The docking scores revealed a greater binding affinity for the complex molecule, confirming a superior combinatorial interaction between gemcitabine and docetaxel. Highest binding ability of the GEDT was against Caspase‐6 and the network analysis of Caspase‐6 was assessed through graph theory model. The stability of GEDT with Caspase‐6 was studied through molecular dynamic simulation for 100 ns. The adsorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity characteristics of the complex structure were investigated, and the findings revealed the complex lead compound's safety profile and its potential for use as a potent anticancer medication.
Impacts of biostimulants on crop yield and biological activity under drought conditions
Authors: Wadduwage Jenendra , Egidi Eleonora , Singh Brajesh K. , Macdonald Catriona A.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Biostimulants are proposed to have a role in sustainable food production and are being increasingly used strategies to limit the negative effects of drought stress on crop yield and soil health. However, how different biostimulants used alone, or in combination with conventional management approaches affect soil health and crop yield under drought in different soils is not well understood. Here we conducted a glasshouse experiment to investigate this.

Materials and Methods

Two soil types from fields maintained under intensive (IM) and extensive (EM) management practices were used with two commercial biostimulants [Universal Natural Plant food (UNP) and Converte Seed Primer (CSP)] on soil microbial populations and crop yield (lettuce) under well‐watered and drought stressed conditions. We examined the activity and biomass of soil microorganisms as well as seed germination and root and shoot biomass to examine the effect of application of biostimulants on parameters of soil health and crop yield.

Results

Biostimulants generally increased crop yield, basal soil respiration and microbial biomass, with effects stronger in EM soils than in IM soils, but effects on soil enzyme activities were variable. The combined use of biostimulant and inorganic fertiliser negated the benefits of the biostimulant on soil biological properties in some cases. Nevertheless, effects of biostimulants had a positive impact on crop yield with the combined use of soil‐applied and seed applied biostimulants have the greatest impact on plant biomass and also conferring some resistance in both soil microbial communities and plant growth to drought.

Conclusions

While biomass and activity of the microbial community and plant growth responses to biostimulant additions are both soil and biostimulant dependent, their combined use has potential to aid both plants and maintain promote microbial activity under of drought, compared to conventional fertiliser treatments in extensively managed soils.
Rational Design of Selenophene‐infused BODIPY Molecules as Fluorogenic Probes for Lung Tumor Imaging – A Computational Approach
Authors: Kumar Surya , Ebenezer Cheriyan , Jaccob Madhavan , Vijay Solomon Rajadurai
Published: February 2024

The BODIPY based molecules show promising properties towards bioimaging applications due to its structural flexibility and versatile optoelectronic characteristic features. Among many strategies in the development of such molecules, fusion of heterocyclic units into the BODIPY core structure is vital in tuning the π‐delocalization and spectral properties. Recently reported Thieno [3,2b] Thiophene based BODIPY (TTB) attracts a lot of attention while the caliber of their Selenophene derivatives are interesting and yet to be explored. Therefore, a systematic replacement of Sulphur by Selenium has been done on TTB and seven new selenophene fused TTB molecules are computationally designed and evaluated for their optoelectronic properties towards bioimaging of CDK2 kinase tumor cells. The optimized geometries indicate that all these molecules are showing excellent π‐delocalization and further stabilized by a range of intra‐molecular C−H−F and B−F−S/Se interactions. Molecular docking studies show that these TTB molecules are potential inhibitors and can be used for lung tumor imaging in biomedical applications. Molecular Dynamics analysis confirms their preferential binding inside the active site up to 100 ns. In summary, this study highlights the importance of Se replacement in designing new BODIPY‐based bioimaging candidates with excellent near‐IR luminescence and photo sensitizers for future biomedical applications.
Designing of Polymeric Nanoparticles for Enhanced Breast Cancer Therapy: Combining Paclitaxel, Boric Acid and Tannic Acid for Controlled Drug Delivery
Authors: Kaya Seçil , Solak Ebru Kondolot , Doğan Sema Yiyit , Demirkaya Aslıhan , Celep A. Gülçin Sağdıçoğlu
Published: February 2024

This study introduces an innovative approach to enhance breast cancer treatment by combining Boric Acid (BA) and Tannic Acid (TA) with Paclitaxel (PTX) within gelatin/sodium alginate (Gel/NaAlg) nanoparticles, resulting in a synergistic combination therapy. The methodology involved integrating PTX, TA, and BA into the polymeric framework using an emulsion cross‐linking method. The resulting nanoparticles underwent rigorous characterization, confirming their suitability as a controlled release platform. Techniques such as Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), X‐ray Diffractometry (XRD), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were employed for thorough analysis. The synthesized nanoparticles demonstrated a size below 204 nm, and extensive analyses confirmed their structural integrity and composition. Notably, Gel/NaAlg/PTX/BA/TA nanoparticles exhibited superior drug release kinetics compared to other formulations, offering a promising strategy for controlled release of hydrophobic drugs like PTX. Entrapment efficiency ranged from 49.84 % to 63.38 %, and drug loading capacities spanned from 49.81 to 61.42 μg/mg. This study pioneers a novel approach in breast cancer therapy by incorporating BA and TA into PTX‐loaded Gel/NaAlg nanoparticlesThese findings emphasize the importance of continued exploration in innovative drug delivery systems for more effective cancer interventions.
Investigation of Jatropha Oil Transesterification into Methyl Esters under Supercritical Methanol Environment using Advanced Heterogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Demir Velid , Akgün Mesut
Published: February 2024

The rationale for this study lies in the investigation of the transesterification of crude Jatropha curcas oil into biodiesel using advanced heterogeneous catalysts under supercritical methanol conditions. The oxides of strontium, lanthanum, and zinc (SrO, La2O3, and ZnO) were synthesized with varying loadings (2 wt %, 6 wt %, and 10 wt %) on γ‐Al2O3 using the wet impregnation method followed by calcination at 900 °C. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the prepared catalysts, multiple analytical techniques were employed, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) surface area analysis, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy. The performance of the catalysts was assessed through the measurement of biodiesel yield, where the SrO/γ‐Al2O3, ZnO/γ‐Al2O3, and La2O3/γ‐Al2O3 systems produced yields of 97.54 %, 97.49 %, and 97.36 %, respectively, under identical reaction conditions of a 1 : 40 oil to methanol molar ratio, 10 wt % catalyst loading amount, 300 °C reaction temperature, 90 bar reaction pressure, and a reaction time of 3 min. Despite a minimal decrease of 0.05 %, zinc oxide catalysts remain highly attractive due to their favorable price position compared to strontium. Additionally, the catalyst can be reused up to 12 times with minimal loss in biodiesel yield (~2 %).
Immediate mobilization in post‐anesthesia care unit does not increase overall postoperative physical activity after elective colorectal surgery: A randomized, double‐blinded controlled trial within an enhanced recovery protocol
Authors: Wilnerzon Thörn Rose‐Marie , Forsberg Anette , Stepniewski Jan , Hjelmqvist Hans , Magnuson Anders , Ahlstrand Rebecca , Ljungqvist Olle
Published: February 2024

Background

The level of post‐operative mobilization according to Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) guidelines is not always achieved. We investigated whether immediate mobilization increases postoperative physical activity. The objective was to evaluate the effects of immediate postoperative mobilization in the post‐anesthesia care unit (PACU) compared to standard care.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial, involved 144 patients, age ≥18 years, undergoing elective colorectal surgery. Patients were randomized to mobilization starting 30 min after arrival in the PACU, or to standard care. Standard care consisted of mobilization a few hours later at the ward according to ERAS guidelines. The primary outcome was physical activity, in terms of number of steps, measured with an accelerometer during postoperative days (PODs) 1–3. Secondary outcomes were physical capacity, functional mobility, time to readiness for discharge, complications, compliance with the ERAS protocol, and physical activity 1 month after surgery.

Results

With the intention‐to‐treat analysis of 144 participants (median age 71, 58% female) 47% underwent laparoscopic‐or robotic‐assisted surgery. No differences in physical activity during hospital stay were found between the participants in the intervention group compared to the standard care group (adjusted mean ratio 0.97 on POD 1 [95% CI, 0.75–1.27], p = 0.84; 0.89 on POD 2 [95% CI, 0.68–1.16], p = 0.39, and 0.90 on POD 3 [95% CI, 0.69–1.17], p = 0.44); no differences were found in any of the other outcome measures.

Conclusions

Addition of the intervention of immediate mobilization to standard care did not make the patients more physically active during their hospital stay.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NTC 03357497.
Insight into the dynamics of slip and radiative effect on magnetohydrodynamic flow of hybrid ferroparticles over a porous deformable sheet
Authors: Gherieb Sihem , Kezzar Mohamed , Ayub Assad , Sari Mohamed Rafik , Khan Umair , Muhammad Taseer , Hendy A. S. , Ali Mohamed R.
Published: February 2024

In the present work, we explored the magnetohydrodynamic boundary layer flow in the presence of pressure gradient across a flat plate. The effects of the slip velocity conditions, thermal Radiation the addition of hybrid Ferroparticles (i.e., a mixture of two types of magnetic nanoparticles for example, (magnetite () and cobalt ferrite ()) in base fluid ( ) and Porous wall (suction/ injection) are also considered in this study. Basic partial differential equations are transformed into nonlinear ordinary differential equations using the appropriate similarity transformations. Then, this equation was treated numerically by using the Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg 4th–5th order method with the shooting technique and analytically via an efficient method called the Generalized Decomposition Method. The effects of various physical parameters on the velocity and temperature profiles are shown graphically. It is found that the incorporation of hybrid nanoparticles demonstrates a relatively substantial impact on the behavior of dynamic and thermal field; outperforming both non‐hybrid nanoparticles and regular fluid in terms of speed and temperature enhancement. The slip and permeability parameters significantly alter the flow structure. The positive values of the slip and permeability parameters enhance the flow velocity and reduce the temperature, leading to the desired flow behavior. Conversely, adopting negative values of these parameters reverses the effect. Furthermore, the radiation parameter enhances the temperature distribution. Additionally, the boundary layer separation tends to disappear with the increase in the magnetic parameter. The results obtained clearly show the accuracy of the proposed method and also indicate an excellent agreement between analytical and numerical data.
Surfaces and Riemannian Geometry
Authors: Pinkall Ulrich , Gross Oliver
Published: February 2024

The most simple quantity of a one-dimensional curve $$\gamma \colon [a,b]\to \mathbb {R}^n$$
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.
Dryland Social-Ecological Systems in Americas
Authors: Zhang Yangjian , Huang Ke , Zhang Jianshuang , Zhao Ran , Ojima Dennis S. , Gao Jie , Zhu Yixuan
Published: February 2024

American drylands account for circa 20% of the global drylands and form a critical part of the global ecosystems. This study comprehensively assessed the ecology and socio-economic status of American drylands by analyzing original and published data. The research findings reveal that North and South American drylands have more differences than commonness. In terms of commonness, both North and South American drylands have higher productivity and soil fertility than other drylands of the globe. Under this high ecosystem productivity context, North American drylands are the high agricultural productivity regions and South America is the largest beef exporter in the world. There are several aspects of differences between North and South American drylands. North American drylands possess an ecosystem productivity twice that of South American drylands. Precipitation has significantly decreased in North America drylands, while South American drylands have become wetting over the past three decades. Population in both North and South American drylands have increased. Vegetation coverage trends exhibit a weak rising trend in South America, while North America drylands have become significantly greener, mainly due to croplands irrigation. The driving forces on land use change and ecosystem productivity in North American drylands comprise a variety of factors, while those on South American drylands are relatively simpler, mostly caused by one driving agent. In dealing with the dual pressures of climate change and socio-economic developments, countries in both North and South America have implemented a series of drylands ecosystem protection measures, such as setting national park and conservation agriculture. These efficient and successful experiences can be examples for other dryland ecosystem protection around the world.
Dryland Dynamics and Driving Forces
Authors: Wu Bingfang , Smith William Kolby , Zeng Hongwei
Published: February 2024

Drylands are the largest biomes on Earth, yet also one of the most vulnerable to climate change and human activities. Dryland ecosystems in the world are characterized by unique and distinctive features and are known to be particularly sensitive to natural and anthropogenic disturbances. Understanding the dynamics of dryland ecosystems and their direct and indirect drivers in socio-economic and natural terms will not only provide facts and knowledge about the dynamics and drivers of future trajectories, but also provide scientific guidance for the development of appropriate measures to improve the resilience of dryland ecosystems in response to human-driven climate change. We first provide an overview of the peculiar nature of dryland land cover, which features spare and patterned vegetation, soil biocrust, and man-made solar energy surface. We specifically highlight new opportunities for remote sensing observations and discuss their potential to provide new insights into dryland ecosystem functions and services. We next discuss the importance of and trends in water availability with emphasis on the different plant water utilization strategies found across global drylands, non-rainfall water absorption, water availability estimation, and hydrological impact of land cover changes. Together these factors determine the development and degradation of drylands across global gradients of water availability. We then outline the role of climate change, population increase, and human activities in driving dryland changes. We end with a forward-looking perspective on future dryland research.
Structure, Functions, and Interactions of Dryland Ecosystems
Authors: Yu Xiubo , Liu Yu , Niu Shuli , Zhao Wei , Fu Chao , Chen Zhi
Published: February 2024

Understanding the interactions between the structures and functions underlying regime shifts in dryland social-ecological systems (SESs) and how they respond to climate change is critical for predicting and managing the future of these ecosystems. Due to the high spatiotemporal variability and sensitivity of drylands ecosystem to natural and anthropogenic disturbances, it is challenging to predict the state shifts of dryland SESs. This theme delves into the mechanisms and geographical heterogeneity of resilience and the maintenance of the stability of dryland SESs that involve threshold behaviors. We emphasized the importance of considering both biotic and abiotic factors to identify the factors that drive the evolution of ecosystem structures and functions in drylands. The research frontier involves understanding how ecohydrological and socioeconomic processes drive the evolution of dryland SESs in a geographically diverse and scale-dependent context, developing comprehensive indicators, models, and multivariable approaches,  and the development of effective management strategies that can maintain the sustainability of dryland SESs in the face of ongoing global environmental changes.
Genetically proxied PCSK9 inhibition is associated with reduced psoriatic arthritis risk
Authors: Li Junhong , Li Jianfeng , Lin Chengkai , Zhou Jiaxiang , Wang Jianmin , Wang Fuan , Li Haizhen , Zhou Zhiyu
Published: February 2024

Background

Lipid pathways play a crucial role in psoriatic arthritis development, and some lipid-lowering drugs are believed to have therapeutic benefits due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Traditional observational studies face issues with confounding factors, complicating the interpretation of causality. This study seeks to determine the genetic link between these medications and the risk of psoriatic arthritis.

Methods

This drug target study utilized the Mendelian randomization strategy. We harnessed high-quality data from population-level genome-wide association studies sourced from the UK Biobank and FinnGen databases. The inverse variance-weighted method, complemented by robust pleiotropy methods, was employed. We examined the causal relationships between three lipid-lowering agents and psoriatic arthritis to unveil the underlying mechanisms.

Results

A significant association was observed between genetically represented proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibition and a decreased risk of psoriatic arthritis (odds ratio [OR]: 0.51; 95% CI 0.14–0.88; P < 0.01). This association was further corroborated in an independent dataset (OR 0.60; 95% CI 0.25–0.94; P = 0.03). Sensitivity analyses affirmed the absence of statistical evidence for pleiotropic or genetic confounding biases. However, no substantial associations were identified for either 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase inhibitors or Niemann–Pick C1-like 1 inhibitors.

Conclusions

This Mendelian randomization analysis underscores the pivotal role of PCSK9 in the etiology of psoriatic arthritis. Inhibition of PCSK9 is associated with reduced psoriatic arthritis risk, highlighting the potential therapeutic benefits of existing PCSK9 inhibitors.
Electricity consumption of anesthesia workstations and potential emission savings by avoiding standby
Authors: Drinhaus Hendrik , Drinhaus Jorrit , Schumacher Christine , Schramm Michael J. , Wetsch Wolfgang A.
Published: February 2024

Background

Anesthesiology has a relevant carbon footprint, mainly due to volatile anesthetics (scope 1 emissions). Additionally, energy used in the operating theater (scope 2 emissions) contributes to anesthesia-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Objectives

Optimizing the electricity use of medical devices might reduce both GHG emissions and costs might hold potential to reduce anaesthesia-related GHG-emissions and costs. We analyzed the electricity consumption of six different anesthesia workstations, calculated their GHG emissions and electricity costs and investigated the potential to reduce emissions and cost by using the devices in a more efficient way.

Methods

Power consumption (active power in watt , W) was measured with the devices off, in standby mode, or fully on with the measuring instrument SecuLife ST. Devices studied were: Dräger Primus, Löwenstein Medical LeonPlus, Getinge Flow C, Getinge Flow E, GE Carestation 750 and GE Aisys. Calculations of GHG emissions were made with different emission factors, ranging from very low (0.09 kg CO2-equivalent/kWh) to very high (0.660 kg CO2-equivalent/kWh). Calculations of electricity cost were made assuming a price of 0.25 € per kWh.

Results

Power consumption during operation varied from 58 W (GE CareStation 750) to 136 W (Dräger Primus). In standby, the devices consumed between 88% and 93% of the electricity needed during use. The annual electricity consumption to run 96 devices in a large clinical department ranges between 45 and 105 Megawatt-hours (MWh) when the devices are left in standby during off hours. If 80% of the devices are switched off during off hours, between 20 and 46 MWh can be saved per year in a single institution. At the average emission factor of our hospital, this electricity saving corresponds to a reduction of GHG emissions between 8.5 and 19.8 tons CO2-equivalent. At the assumed prices, a cost reduction between 5000 € and 11,600 € could be achieved by this intervention.

Conclusion

The power consumption varies considerably between the different types of anesthesia workstations. All devices exhibit a high electricity consumption in standby mode. Avoiding standby mode during off hours can save energy and thus GHG emissions and cost. The reductions in GHG emissions and electricity cost that can be achieved with this intervention in a large anesthesiology department are modest. Compared with GHG emissions generated by volatile anesthetics, particularly desflurane, optimization of electricity consumption of anesthesia workstations holds a much smaller potential to reduce the carbon footprint of anesthesia; however, as switching off anesthesia workstations overnight is relatively effortless, this behavioral change should be encouraged from both an ecological and economical point of view.
Some new invariant sum tests and MAD tests for the assessment of Benford’s law
Authors: Kössler Wolfgang , Lenz Hans-J. , Wang Xing D.
Published: February 2024

The Benford law is used world-wide for detecting non-conformance or data fraud of numerical data. It says that the significand of a data set from the universe is not uniformly, but logarithmically distributed. Especially, the first non-zero digit is One with an approximate probability of 0.3. There are several tests available for testing Benford, the best known are Pearson’s $$\chi ^2$$

χ
2

-test, the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test and a modified version of the MAD-test. In the present paper we propose some tests, three of the four invariant sum tests are new and they are motivated by the sum invariance property of the Benford law. Two distance measures are investigated, Euclidean and Mahalanobis distance of the standardized sums to the orign. We use the significands corresponding to the first significant digit as well as the second significant digit, respectively. Moreover, we suggest inproved versions of the MAD-test and obtain critical values that are independent of the sample sizes. For illustration the tests are applied to specifically selected data sets where prior knowledge is available about being or not being Benford. Furthermore we discuss the role of truncation of distributions.
LIBS as a novel tool for the determination of the imidization degree of polyimides
Authors: Achleitner Birgit , Girault Laurie , Larisegger Silvia , Nelhiebel Michael , Knaack Patrick , Limbeck Andreas
Published: February 2024

Due to their outstanding chemical and physical properties, polyimides are widely used in industrial applications. The degree of imidization of polyimides significantly influences their properties, making it an important factor in tailoring the material for specific applications. Imidization refers to the process of converting a precursor poly(amic acid) by removing water, and it is essential to analyze this process in detail to tune the final structure and properties of the material. Conventional techniques for this task include Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), or differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), but they lack the possibility of spatially and/or depth-resolved analysis or do not enable in-line monitoring capabilities. To overcome these limitations, we propose laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) as a powerful tool for the monitoring of the imidization reaction. To establish a measurement method, a total of 130 in-house prepared, self-synthesized samples were thermally cured to exhibit varying imidization degrees. IR spectroscopy served as a reference technique during method development, and a novel formula for calculating the degree of imidization, based on the C2 and H signal trends, was introduced. The calculated imidization degrees of model thin films based on LIBS were in good accordance with the IR reference method although minor differences between the two methods were expected due to varying information depth and the size of the sampled area. Additionally, the robustness of the procedure was demonstrated by depth profiling of a stacked model polymer, spiking with commercially available additives and, ultimately, by analyzing industry-relevant polymer samples.

Graphical Abstract
Oxidative stress resistance prompts pyrroloquinoline quinone biosynthesis in Hyphomicrobium denitrificans H4-45
Authors: Liang Jiale , Tang Mingjie , Chen Lang , Wang Wenjie , Liang Xinle
Published: February 2024

Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is a natural antioxidant with diverse applications in food and pharmaceutical industries. A lot of effort has been devoted toward the discovery of PQQ high-producing microbial species and characterization of biosynthesis, but it is still challenging to achieve a high PQQ yield. In this study, a combined strategy of random mutagenesis and adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) with fermentation optimization was applied to improve PQQ production in Hyphomicrobium denitrificans H4-45. A mutant strain AE-9 was obtained after nearly 400 generations of UV-LiCl mutagenesis, followed by an ALE process, which was conducted with a consecutive increase of oxidative stress generated by kanamycin, sodium sulfide, and potassium tellurite. In the flask culture condition, the PQQ production in mutant strain AE-9 had an 80.4% increase, and the cell density increased by 14.9% when compared with that of the initial strain H4-45. Moreover, batch and fed-batch fermentation processes were optimized to further improve PQQ production by pH control strategy, methanol and H2O2 feed flow, and segmented fermentation process. Finally, the highest PQQ production and productivity of the mutant strain AE-9 reached 307 mg/L and 4.26 mg/L/h in a 3.7-L bioreactor, respectively. Whole genome sequencing analysis showed that genetic mutations in the ftfL gene and thiC gene might contribute to improving PQQ production by enhancing methanol consumption and cell growth in the AE-9 strain. Our study provided a systematic strategy to obtain a PQQ high-producing mutant strain and achieve high production of PQQ in fermentation. These practical methods could be applicable to improve the production of other antioxidant compounds with uncleared regulation mechanisms.

Key points

• Improvement of PQQ production by UV-LiCl mutagenesis combined with adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) and fermentation optimization.

• A consecutive increase of oxidative stress could be used as the antagonistic factor for ALE to enhance PQQ production.

• Mutations in the ftfL gene and thiC gene indicated that PQQ production might be increased by enhancing methanol consumption and cell growth.
Candidate Gene Transcriptional Signature Unravels the Reprogramming Occurring in the Peel of Apple Fruit of ‘Granny Smith’ During Postharvest Storage
Authors: Vittani Lorenzo , Populin Francesca , Stuerz Stefan , Fava Federico , Robatscher Peter , Zanella Angelo , Costa Fabrizio , Busatto Nicola
Published: February 2024

After harvest fruit are stored to preserve the quality features established during the on-tree development and maturation, ensuring thus a continuous availability of fresh fruit on the market. For certain fruit species like apple, storage can last for almost a year, especially when coupled with several strategies, such as the reduction of the oxygen concentration or the application of ethylene competitor molecules, like 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP). To guarantee the maintenance of the highest quality, the monitoring of the physiological processes ongoing during the postharvest ripening is compelling. For this purpose, 16 genes belonging to key fruit ripening pathways, such as the ethylene and the sugar/fermentation metabolism, have been chosen as potential markers for the molecular characterization of the major changes occurring in the fruit during storage. Among these genes, ACS, PPO, PG1, RAP2-like, and ADH exhibited the most significant differential expression across the various samples. Based on the transcriptional pattern, this set of genes constitutes a valuable molecular tool for a precise and reliable RNA-based monitoring of the postharvest ripening progression and fermentation process in apples. PPO, together with S6PDH, were furthermore employed to inspect the onset of the superficial scald in apple and resulted to correlate with the evaluation of the incidence of this disorder and the accumulation of the sugar alcohol sorbitol, known to play important protecting roles to chilling injuries. The assessment of the transcriptional signature of these elements can facilitate the development of gene expression markers suitable for a more informed investigation of the physiological progression of the postharvest ripening in apples, ultimately leading to the promotion of high-quality stored apples, extending storage time while minimizing postharvest disorders and fruit loss.