bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A perspective‐driven and technical evaluation of machine learning in bioreactor scale‐up: A case‐study for potential model developments
Authors: Karimi Alavijeh Masih , Lee Yih Yean , Gras Sally L.
Published: March 2024

Bioreactor scale‐up and scale‐down have always been a topical issue for the biopharmaceutical industry and despite considerable effort, the identification of a fail‐safe strategy for bioprocess development across scales remains a challenge. With the ubiquitous growth of digital transformation technologies, new scaling methods based on computer models may enable more effective scaling. This study aimed to evaluate the potential application of machine learning (ML) algorithms for bioreactor scale‐up, with a specific focus on the prediction of scaling parameters. Factors critical to the development of such models were identified and data for bioreactor scale‐up studies involving CHO cell‐generated mAb products collated from the literature and public sources for the development of unsupervised and supervised ML models. Comparison of bioreactor performance across scales identified similarities between the different processes and primary differences between small‐ and large‐scale bioreactors. A series of three case studies were developed to assess the relationship between cell growth and scale‐sensitive bioreactor features. An embedding layer improved the capability of artificial neural network models to predict cell growth at a large‐scale, as this approach captured similarities between the processes. Further models constructed to predict scaling parameters demonstrated how ML models may be applied to assist the scaling process. The development of data sets that include more characterization data with greater variability under different gassing and agitation regimes will also assist the future development of ML tools for bioreactor scaling.
Polyvinyl alcohol/ammonium iodide/ionic liquid‐4‐ethyl‐4‐methylmorpholiniumbromide based polymer electrolytes and its application in electric double layer capacitor
Authors: Gairola Yashvi , Rajput Kanika , Tomar Richa , Kumar Sushant , Konwar Subhrajit , Aldbea Ftema W. , Yadav Tarun , Yahya M. Z. A. , Singh Pramod K.
Published: March 2024

In this study, we have synthesized solid polymer electrolytes using polyvinyl alcohol as a host polymer that has been doped with ionic liquid and ammonium iodide. Impedance spectroscopy revealed that the increase in ionic liquid doping increased the ionic conductivity of the PVA‐NH4I complex. The crystalline nature of the polymeric films was studied using polarized optical microscopy and x‐ray diffraction. To confirm the blending ability of polymer electrolyte, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was also used. Finally, a supercapacitor was fabricated using the highest conducting IL‐doped polymer electrolyte which demonstrates a specific capacitance of 97 F/g with a stable efficiency.
Isolation of Fidaxomicin and Shunt Metabolites from Actinoplanes deccanensis
Authors: Jung Erik , Hunter Maja , Dorst Andrea , Major Alexander , Teofilovic Tatjana , Müller Rolf , Gademann Karl
Published: March 2024

A protocol for the isolation of the antibiotic fidaxomicin (Fdx) from Actinoplanes deccanensis and the isolation of shunt metabolites from A. deccanensis fdxG2− is reported. We constructed the mutant strain A. deccanensis fdxG2− by genetic manipulation which enabled the isolation of shunt metabolites as useful starting points for semisynthetic analogues of Fdx. Furthermore, a synthetic protocol for the conversion of complex A. deccanensis fdxG2− extracts into the single compound FdxG2‐OH via methanolysis is presented. This synthetic procedure is complemented by images and practical notes. Full structure assignment is given in the SI and the characterization data files are published to aid experimentalists. The protocol is also suitable as an undergraduate laboratory project. We hope to facilitate research into new Fdx derivatives through the availability of this procedure.
Assessing impacts of cemeteries on water quality in an urban headwater watershed with mixed human‐built infrastructure
Authors: Nesheim Samuel , Yu Zhongjie , Tuttle Samuel , Klein Jenna , Wen Tao
Published: March 2024

Cemeteries are understudied integral components to urban watersheds, which provide ecosystem services but can also export nutrients, trace elements, and other contaminants to nearby water bodies. In this study, we focus on Meadowbrook Creek, an urban headwater stream in Syracuse, New York (USA), which has shown significant nitrate contributions from a local cemetery. We collected biweekly surface water samples over the course of 1 year from 2022 to 2023 for analysis of major and trace elemental concentrations including Na, Ca, Mg, K, F, Cl, sulfate, and nitrate. Here, we aim to assess the impact of various human infrastructures on urban stream water quality with a particular focus on the cemetery and nitrate. A comparison between the new dataset in this study and previously reported water chemistry data in Meadowbrook in 2012 suggests a decade‐long impact of road salting and the cemetery on water quality particularly with respect to Na, Cl, and nitrate. Sulfate, Mg, Ca, and K are likely mainly geogenic. Stable nitrogen isotope data, the usage of concrete or steel vaults in the cemetery in the past 50 years, and the lack of correlation between nitrate and fluoride concentrations in stream water argue against burial decay products being a major source of nitrate to the stream. Instead, other nitrate sources that exist in the cemetery such as, fertilizer, decaying plant material, and wastewater, are more viable dominant nitrate sources. In addition, nitrate loading calculations indicate that the groundwater‐connected reach, including the cemetery, acts as an annual net sink for nitrate despite the seasonally varying sink‐source patterns.
RR‐HCL‐SVM: A two‐stage framework for assessing remaining thyroid tissue post‐thyroidectomy in SPECT images
Authors: Phu Minh Lai , Pham Thanh Vinh , Duc Thuc Pham , Thanh Trung Nguyen , Quoc Long Tran , Minh Duc Chu , Ngoc Ha Le , Hong Son Mai , Thi Phuong Nguyen , Thi Nhung Nguyen , Quoc Khanh Le , Nguyen Thuan Duc , Thai Ha Nguyen , Chi Thanh Nguyen
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a two‐stage deep learning framework, RR‐HCL‐SVM, designed to aid in the assessment of residual thyroid tissues following thyroidectomy, utilizing single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) images. Leveraging the power of deep learning, our model offers a comprehensive solution for the detection and assessment of remaining thyroid tissues. To enhance accuracy, we introduce a unique combination of features, incorporating the Radio Scan Index (RSI) and radiomics features. These features not only improve accuracy but also provide valuable insights into tissue characterization. Moreover, we employ efficient clustering techniques for feature dimension reduction, preserving model performance while reducing computational complexity. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach, achieving an impressive F1 score of 0.97, sensitivity of 0.96, and specificity of 0.98. The RR‐HCL SVM framework holds great promise in the clinical setting for the precise evaluation of residual thyroid tissues post‐thyroidectomy, offering potential benefits for patient care and treatment planning.
Association of the ESR1 (rs9340799), OLR1 (rs3736234), LIPC (rs2070895), VDR (rs2228570), and CETP (rs708272) Polymorphisms With Risk of Coronary Artery Disease in Iranian Patients
Authors: Karam Zahra Miri , Yari Abolfazl , Najmadini Atefeh , Khorasani Nima Norouzi , Attari Rezvan , Jafarinejad‐Farsangi Saeideh , Karam Mohammad Ali Miri , Najafipour Hamid , Saeidi Kolsoum
Published: March 2024

Background

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a devastating illness and a leading cause of death worldwide, primarily caused by atherosclerosis resulting from a genetic‐environmental interaction. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the ESR1 (rs9340799), OLR1 (rs3736234), LIPC (rs2070895), VDR (rs2228570), and CETP (rs708272) polymorphisms, lipid profile parameters, and CAD risk in a southeast Iranian population.

Methods

A total of 400 subjects (200 CAD patients with hyperlipidemia and 200 healthy controls) were enrolled in this case–control study. Five selected polymorphisms were genotyped using the polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) technique.

Results

For all single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), the population under study was in the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. The T‐risk allele frequency of rs2228570 was associated with an increased risk of CAD. The TT and CT genotypes of rs2228570 had also been associated with the risk of CAD. Additionally, the TT genotype was associated with higher serum low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐c) and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐c) levels. The GG genotype of the rs3736234 was associated with higher body mass index (BMI) and triglyceride (TG) levels, and the AA genotype of the rs708272 was associated with higher HDL‐c levels. Based on these findings, we propose that the VDR (rs2228570) polymorphism was associated with serum HDL‐c and LDL‐c levels and may serve as potential risk factors for CAD within the Iranian population. Moreover, rs3736234 and rs708272 influence the concentrations of TG and HDL‐c, respectively.

Conclusion

These findings provided insights into the complex interplay between genetic variations, cardiovascular risk, and lipid metabolism.
Is proton beam therapy always better than photon irradiation? Lessons from two cases
Authors: Li Michelle P , Yeo Adam , Gunewardena Roshini , Drum Gabrielle , Wiltshire Kirsty , Phillips Claire , Sia Joseph , Wheeler Greg , Hall Lisa
Published: March 2024

Proton beam therapy (PBT) is increasingly used to treat cancers, especially in the paediatric and adolescent and young adult (AYA) population. As PBT becomes more accessible, determining when PBT should be used instead of photon irradiation can be difficult. There is a need to balance patient, tumour and treatment factors when making this decision. Comparing the dosimetry between these two modalities plays an important role in this process. PBT can reduce low to intermediate doses to organs at risk (OAR), but photon irradiation has its dosimetric advantages. We present two cases with brain tumours, one paediatric and one AYA, in which treatment plan comparison between photons and protons showed dosimetric advantages of photon irradiation. The first case was an 18‐month‐old child diagnosed with posterior fossa ependymoma requiring adjuvant radiotherapy. Photon irradiation using volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) had lower doses to the hippocampi but higher doses to the pituitary gland. The second case was a 21‐year‐old with an optic pathway glioma. There was better sparing of the critical optic structures and pituitary gland using fractionated stereotactic radiation therapy over PBT. The dosimetric advantages of photon irradiation over PBT have been demonstrated in these cases. This highlights the role of proton‐to‐photon comparative treatment planning to better understand which patients might benefit from photon irradiation versus PBT.
Detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 virus in middle ear effusions and its association with otitis media with effusion
Authors: Fu Xiao , Wang Zhujian , Chen Binjun , Sun Haojie , Lyu Jihan , Shao Jing , Lu Xiaoling , Xu Jianghong , Yang Juanmei , Chi Fanglu , Huang Yibo , Ren Dongdong
Published: March 2024

A large‐scale outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) occurred in Shanghai, China, in early December 2022. To study the incidence and characteristics of otitis media with effusion (OME) complicating SARS‐CoV‐2, we collected 267 middle ear effusion (MEE) samples and 172 nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs from patients. The SARS‐CoV‐2 virus was detected by RT‐PCR targeting. The SARS‐CoV‐2 virus, angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), and transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) expression in human samples was examined via immunofluorescence. During the COVID‐19 epidemic in 2022, the incidence of OME (3%) significantly increased compared to the same period from 2020 to 2022. Ear symptoms in patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 complicated by OME generally appeared late, even after a negative NP swab, an average of 9.33 ± 6.272 days after COVID‐19 infection. The SARS‐CoV‐2 virus was detected in MEE, which had a higher viral load than NP swabs. The insertion rate of tympanostomy tubes was not significantly higher than in OME patients in 2019–2022. Virus migration led to high viral loads in MEE despite negative NP swabs, indicating that OME lagged behind respiratory infections but had a favorable prognosis. Furthermore, middle ear tissue from adult humans coexpressed the ACE2 receptor for the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus and the TMPRSS2 cofactors required for virus entry.
In‐Situ Wavefront Correction via Physics‐Informed Neural Network
Authors: Long Xian , Gao Yuan , Yuan Zheng , Yan Wenxiang , Ren Zhi‐Cheng , Wang Xi‐Lin , Ding Jianping , Wang Hui‐Tian
Published: March 2024

Wavefront distortions pose a significant limitation in various optical applications, hindering further advancements in optical system performance. In this study, a novel generic calibration model based on Zernike‐fitting neural network (ZFNN) is proposed, which enables insitu wavefront correction with just a single‐shot measurement. The experimental setup follows a standard or equivalent focal‐field imaging optical path, allowing calibration without the need to remove any components from the optical system. The ZFNN, a physics‐informed neural network, offers the advantage of not requiring prior training, eliminating the need for extensive labeled data. With a fully connected network architecture and a modest number of neurons (469), the ZFNN achieves exceptionally fast optimization speed and meets the basic requirements for real‐time calibration. Consequently, this approach holds great potential for applications such as rapid calibration of optical systems, high‐precision light field modulation, and various advanced imaging techniques.
First measurements of radon‐220 diffusion in mice tumors, towards treatment planning in diffusing alpha‐emitters radiation therapy
Authors: Heger Guy , Dumančić Mirta , Luz Ishai , Vatarescu Maayan , Weizman Noam , Miller Brian W. , Cooks Tomer , Arazi Lior
Published: March 2024

Background

Diffusing alpha‐emitters radiation therapy (“Alpha‐DaRT”) is a new method for treating solid tumors with alpha particles, relying on the release of the short‐lived alpha‐emitting daughter atoms of radium‐224 from interstitial sources inserted into the tumor. Alpha‐DaRT tumor dosimetry is governed by the spread of radium's progeny around the source, as described by an approximate framework called the “diffusion‐leakage model”. The most important model parameters are the diffusion lengths of radon‐220 and lead‐212, and their estimation is therefore essential for treatment planning.

Purpose

Previous works have provided initial estimates for the dominant diffusion length, by measuring the activity spread inside mice‐borne tumors several days after the insertion of an Alpha‐DaRT source. The measurements, taken when lead‐212 was in secular equilibrium with radium‐224, were interpreted as representing the lead‐212 diffusion length. The aim of this work is to provide first experimental estimates for the diffusion length of radon‐220, using a new methodology.

Methods

The diffusion length of radon‐220 was estimated from autoradiography measurements of histological sections taken from 24 mice‐borne subcutaneous tumors of five different types. Unlike previous studies, the source dwell time inside the tumor was limited to 30 min, to prevent the buildup of lead‐212. To investigate the contribution of potential non‐diffusive processes, experiments were done in two sets: fourteen in vivo tumors, where during the treatment the tumors were still carried by the mice with active blood supply, and 10 ex‐vivo tumors, where the tumors were excised before source insertion and kept in a medium at with the source inside.

Results

The measured diffusion lengths of radon‐220, extracted by fitting the recorded activity pattern up to 1.5 mm from the source, lie in the range , with no significant difference between the average values measured in in‐vivo and ex‐vivo tumors: versus . However, in‐vivo tumors display an enhanced spread of activity 2–3 mm away from the source. This effect is not explained by the current model and is much less pronounced in ex‐vivo tumors.

Conclusions

The average measured radon‐220 diffusion lengths in both in‐vivo and ex‐vivo tumors are consistent with published data on the diffusion length of radon in water and lie close to the upper limit of the previously estimated range of . The observation that close to the source there is no apparent difference between in‐vivo and ex‐vivo tumors, and the good agreement with the theoretical model in this region suggest that the spread of radon‐220 is predominantly diffusive in this region. The departure from the model prediction in in‐vivo tumors at large radial distances may hint at potential vascular contribution, which will be the subject of future works.
A comprehensive investigation of the performance of a commercial scintillator system for applications in electron FLASH radiotherapy
Authors: Liu Kevin , Holmes Shannon , Schüler Emil , Beddar Sam
Published: March 2024

Background

Dosimetry in ultra‐high dose rate (UHDR) beamlines is significantly challenged by limitations in real‐time monitoring and accurate measurement of beam output, beam parameters, and delivered doses using conventional radiation detectors, which exhibit dependencies in ultra‐high dose‐rate (UHDR) and high dose‐per‐pulse (DPP) beamline conditions.

Purpose

In this study, we characterized the response of the Exradin W2 plastic scintillator (Standard Imaging, Inc.), a water‐equivalent detector that provides measurements with a time resolution of 100 Hz, to determine its feasibility for use in UHDR electron beamlines.

Methods

The W2 scintillator was exposed to an UHDR electron beam with different beam parameters by varying the pulse repetition frequency (PRF), pulse width (PW), and pulse amplitude settings of an electron UHDR linear accelerator system. The response of the W2 scintillator was evaluated as a function of the total integrated dose delivered, DPP, and mean and instantaneous dose rate. To account for detector radiation damage, the signal sensitivity (pC/Gy) of the W2 scintillator was measured and tracked as a function of dose history.

Results

The W2 scintillator demonstrated mean dose rate independence and linearity as a function of integrated dose and DPP for DPP ≤ 1.5 Gy (R2 > 0.99) and PRF ≤ 90 Hz. At DPP > 1.5 Gy, nonlinear behavior and signal saturation in the blue and green signals as a function of DPP, PRF, and integrated dose became apparent. In the absence of Cerenkov correction, the W2 scintillator exhibited PW dependence, even at DPP values <1.5 Gy, with a difference of up to 31% and 54% in the measured blue and green signal for PWs ranging from 0.5 to 3.6 µs. The change in signal sensitivity of the W2 scintillator as a function of accumulated dose was approximately 4%/kGy and 0.3%/kGy for the measured blue and green signal responses, respectively, as a function of integrated dose history.

Conclusion

The Exradin W2 scintillator can provide output measurements that are both dose rate independent and linear in response if the DPP is kept ≤1.5 Gy (corresponding to a mean dose rate up to 290 Gy/s in the used system), as long as proper calibration is performed to account for PW and changes in signal sensitivity as a function of accumulated dose. For DPP > 1.5 Gy, the W2 scintillator's response becomes nonlinear, likely due to limitations in the electrometer related to the high signal intensity.
Bayesian analysis of optimal burn‐in policy for heterogeneous components with minimal repair
Authors: Ling Xiaoliang , Yin Ruijie , Li Ping
Published: March 2024

This study develops a Bayesian method to analyze optimal burn‐in policy for heterogeneous components with minimal repair. We use the non‐homogeneous Poisson processes with different power law intensity functions to model the minimal repair processes for heterogeneous components. Since the component from the weak subpopulation may fail more frequently, the total number of minimal repairs can be used for establishing a screening rule. By screening, we can decide whether the component after burn‐in should be eliminated or not. Considering the uncertainty of model parameters, we generate a minimally repaired data set of components by simulation. Then, we obtain the model parameters estimators by using Bayesian method combined with the existing data. We further analyze and get the optimal burn‐in settings under cost and performance optimization model. A numerical example is used to verify the effectiveness of the Bayesian method.
A variable‐speed‐condition fault diagnosis method for crankshaft bearing in the RV reducer with WSO‐VMD and ResNet‐SWIN
Authors: Qiu Guangqi , Nie Yu , Peng Yulong , Huang Peng , Chen Junjie , Gu Yingkui
Published: March 2024

Due to the noise interference and the weak characterization ability of the fault vibration signal of rotation vector (RV) reducer crankshaft bearing, it is difficult to obtain satisfactory results for the available fault diagnosis methods. For that, this paper proposes a variable‐speed‐condition fault diagnosis method with WSO‐VMD and ResNet‐SWIN. A signal reconstruction method with WSO‐VMD was carried out, Firstly, the performance of VMD algorithm is improved by using war strategy optimization algorithm to select parameters adaptively. Then the signal is reconstructed considering the fault characteristic frequency, so as to realize the noise reduction of the signal. By using the residual network module and attention mechanism to replace the first stage of the original SWIN model, a novel ResNet‐SWIN fault diagnosis model is established to enhance the feature extraction ability for the weak signal. The experiments with the constant‐operating‐condition and the variable‐operating‐condition are carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results show that, whether at variable‐speed or constant‐speed conditions, WSO algorithm has been proven to be the fastest convergence speed compared with WOA, SSA, and NGO optimization algorithms, and by the signal reconstruction with WSO‐VMD, the variance evaluation indicator of the reconstructed signal has 36%, 21%, 46%, and 40%, respectively. ResNet‐SWIN model has achieved the optimal diagnosis accuracy compared with SWIN, VIT, and CNN‐SVM models in both variable‐speed and constant‐speed conditions.
Thickness‐Dependent Microstructural Evolution of CsPbBr3 Nanobricks Induced by Electron Beam Irradiation
Authors: Diao Feiyu , Zhang Qingye , Wang Jiaju , Liang Wenshuang , Rosei Federico , Xue Xuyan , Wang Yiqian
Published: March 2024

All‐inorganic halide perovskites exhibit exceptional optical properties and are promising photoactive materials for optoelectronics. However, their stability remains a key challenge, exacerbated by a limited understanding of degradation mechanisms. Herein, in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is used to investigate the effect of thickness on the structural stability of CsPbBr3 nanobricks under electron beam irradiation. CsPbBr3 nanobricks with different thicknesses have been prepared using a traditional hot‐injection method, giving rise to a distinctive cubic structure. A modulated structure, caused by bromine vacancy ordering, has been observed in the thin nanobricks. The degradation behaviors of nanobricks are related to thickness‐dependent bromine vacancy formation in the CsPbBr3 lattice. More bromine vacancies exist in thin nanobricks than thick ones, resulting in a greater number of undercoordinated Pb atoms which accelerate irradiation‐induced degradation. Decomposition products include Pb nanoparticles, which also demonstrate thickness‐dependent characteristics. TEM images of Pb nanoparticles formed from thin nanobricks show evidence of irradiation‐induced amorphization. In thicker nanobricks, Pb nanoparticle size increases with the duration of electron beam irradiation, while the remaining Cs atoms bond with Br atoms to form relatively stable CsBr nanoparticles. These results contribute to understanding of degradation mechanisms in cesium lead halide perovskites under electron beam irradiation.
Assessing the link between energy intensity, renewable energy, economic growth, and carbon dioxide emissions: Evidence from Turkey
Authors: Somoye Oluwatoyin Abidemi
Published: March 2024

Turkey occupies a significant position in the global economy and plans to achieve net‐zero emissions by 2053. Thus, this study uses the non–linear ARDL (NARDL) framework to analyze the effect of energy intensity (EINT), renewable energy (REN), and economic growth (GDP) on CO2 in Turkey from 1970 to 2021. The results are as follows: (i) The variables have a long‐term link; (ii) Over the long‐term, a positive (negative) change in EINT increases (decreases) CO2; a positive (negative) change in REN decreases (increases) CO2; and a positive (negative) change in GDP increases (decreases) CO2. (iii) In the short‐run, an EINT and GDP negative change decreases CO2. In light of these findings, Turkish policymakers should set energy efficiency standards and support clean energy initiatives, which are some of the practical ways of lowering CO2 and addressing other climate challenges.
Anodic oxidation of esomeprazole in water by carbon coated titanium (C/Ti) electrode: Optimization and degradation analysis
Authors: Farissi Salman , Palasseri Harikrishnan , Gopi Utukuri , Ajith Gara , Muthukumar Anbazhagi , Muthuchamy Muthukumar
Published: March 2024

Esomeprazole (ESO) is one of the proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) that is commonly used to treat extreme acidity and gastrointestinal irritation. Since it is used at a high rate, it is now classified as a pollutant of emerging concern (CEC). ESO gravely jeopardizes the health of living beings because it persists in water and wastewater sources even after standard treatment. Studies on the effective removal of PPIs, especially ESO, are scarce. In the current study, esomeprazole is disintegrated in water using electrochemical oxidation (EO). Titanium cathode with sodium sulfate electrolyte and carbon coated titanium (C/Ti) anode were used to apply EO. Through optimization studies utilizing COD measurement, it was discovered that 93% of the COD could be removed at pH 3, 60 mM sodium sulfate concentration, 300 min treatment period, and 115 mA cm−2 current density. Whereas TOC research revealed only 44% mineralization, HPLC‐PDA experiments revealed 100% ESO transformation. High resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) studies were used to propose a degradation mechanism and pathway. The primary processes of degradation included desulfurization, thioperoxole group formation, sulfinyl benzimidazole group breakage, and demethylation. More than 20 reuses of the anode and cathode materials were possible without significantly lowering their oxidation efficiency.
Antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic effects of hawthorn extract (Crataegus oxyacantha) in broiler chickens
Authors: Ahmadipour Behnam , Kalantar Majid , Abaszadeh Samira , Hassanpour Hossein
Published: March 2024

Background

One of the main problems in the poultry industry is excess body fat, and the anti‐fat effect of Cratagus extract has been confirmed in several studies.

Objectives

The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of hawthorn extract (Crataegus oxyacantha) on growth performance, haematological variables and hepatic gene expression in broiler chickens reared at high altitude (2100 m).

Methods

A total of 225‐day‐old chicks (Ross 308) were randomly distributed into three treatments. Experimental treatments were prepared by adding 0.0, 0.2 and 0.4 mL of hawthorn extract per litre of consumption of water.

Results

The results showed that weight gain and feed conversion ratio were significantly improved and abdominal fat decreased by consumption of two levels of Crateagus extract when compared to the control (p < 0.05). Consumption of hawthorn extract decreased circulatory levels of malondialdehyde, triacylglycerol, total cholesterol and low‐density lipoproteins cholesterol but increased ferric reducing antioxidant power and high‐density lipoproteins cholesterol (p < 0.05). Hawthorn extract caused an up‐regulation of catalase, superoxide dismutase1, glutathione peroxidase1 and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor alpha but reduced the expression of key lipogenic enzymes (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Overall, consumption of 0.4 mL hawthorn extract per litre of drinking water, improved growth performance, suppressed lipogenesis and enhanced antioxidant response.
Aids to improve understanding of statistical risk in patients consenting for surgery and interventional procedures: A systematic review
Authors: Jalal Arif Hanafi Bin , Chatzopoulou Despoina , Marcus Hani J , Pandit Anand S
Published: March 2024

Background

Informed consent is an essential process in clinical decision‐making, through which healthcare providers educate patients about benefits, risks, and alternatives of a procedure. Statistical risk information is difficult to communicate and the effectiveness of aids aimed at supporting this type of communication is uncertain. This systematic review aims to study the impact of risk communication adjuncts on patients' understanding of statistical risk in surgery and interventional procedures.

Methods

A systematic search was performed across Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science until July 2021 with a repeated search in September 2022. RCTs and observational studies examining risk communication tools (e.g., information leaflets and audio‐video) in adult (age >16) patients undergoing a surgical or interventional procedure were included. Primary outcomes included the objective assessment of statistical risk recall. Secondary outcomes included patient attitudes with respect to statistical information. Due to the study heterogeneity, a narrative synthesis was performed.

Results

A total of 4348 articles were identified, and following abstract and full‐text screening 14 articles, including 9 RCTs, were included. The total number of adult patients was 1513. The most common risk communication tool used was written information (n = 7). Most RCTs (7/9, 77.8%) showed statistically significant improvements in patient understanding of statistical risk in the intervention group. Quality assessment found some concerns with all RCTs.

Conclusion

Risk communication tools appear to improve recall of statistical risk. Additional prospective trials comparing various aids simultaneously are warranted to determine the most effective method of improving understanding.
Mich. Nonkonform. Heiß. Geschlecht aus dem Apparat
Authors: van Eikels Kai
Published: March 2024

Zahlreiche Online-Kommunikationsplattformen nutzen das Design-Element der Dropdown-Liste, um ihre User*innen Geschlechtsidentitäten auswählen zu lassen. In Auseinandersetzung mit dieser User Experience beschäftigt sich der Essay mit der performativen Dimension von Geschlechtsrepräsentation, die auch durch Design-Prozesse formiert wird. Dabei formuliert der Text die Vermutung, dass das Bewusstsein für Vielfalt möglicher Gender-Identitäten durch die solche scheinbar nebensächlichen Designs möglicherweise nachhaltiger beeinflusst wird als durch Anstrengungen zu politischer Steuerung.
»Cadrer le dérèglement«. Politiken der institutionellen Intervention
Authors: Grüner Jakob
Published: March 2024

Institutionen sind heterogene Gefüge, die Personen, Dinge, Praktiken und symbolische Systeme zusammenführen und dadurch psychosoziale Wirklichkeiten erzeugen. Sie können Gruppen unterwerfen oder Kreativität und Verantwortung fördern. In Anbetracht der Theorie und Praxis der institutionellen Psychotherapie – einer radikalen Bewegung, die in den 1940er Jahren von einer Gruppe um Lucien Bonnafé und François Tosquelles an der psychiatrischen Klinik Saint Alban gegründet wurde und auf eine Veränderung der politischen und sozialen Bedingungen für die Behandlung der Patienten abzielte – fragt der Beitrag nach einem positiven Verständnis der Rolle von Institutionen. Wie lassen sich Institutionen als Räume der Befreiung denken? Diese Frage war lehrreich für das Projekt der institutionellen Psychotherapie, wie es von Félix Guattari in »Psychoanalyse et Transversalité« (1972) in Reflexion über die Arbeit in La Borde dargelegt wurde. Am Beispiel von »la grille« – einem Organisationsschema für die täglichen Aufgaben in der Klinik – skizziert der Beitrag mögliche Mikropolitiken, die es der Institution erlauben, sich für ihre eigenen Problematisierungen zu öffnen.
Seenotrettung und Sitzungsprotokoll. Zur bürokratischen Verstetigung moralischer Normen
Authors: Trüper Henning
Published: March 2024

Der Beitrag nimmt die Entstehungszeit der europäischen Seenotrettungsgesellschaften in den Blick, indem er die Organisation zweier 1824 in Holland gegründeter Vereine vergleicht. Während die in Amsterdam gegründete Rettungsgesellschaft binnen kurzer Zeit eine ausgeprägte Rettungstätigkeit entwickelt, wird diese in den von Rotterdam aus verantworteten Küstengebieten von lokalen Gegebenheiten behindert. Es sind bürokratische Formen und Medien, die dennoch beiden Vereinen auf dem Papier eine vergleichbare organisationale Stabilität verleihen.
Unraveling the complexity of vascular tone regulation: a multiscale computational approach to integrating chemo-mechano-biological pathways with cardiovascular biomechanics
Authors: Marino Michele , Sauty Bastien , Vairo Giuseppe
Published: March 2024

Vascular tone regulation is a crucial aspect of cardiovascular physiology, with significant implications for overall cardiovascular health. However, the precise physiological mechanisms governing smooth muscle cell contraction and relaxation remain uncertain. The complexity of vascular tone regulation stems from its multiscale and multifactorial nature, involving global hemodynamics, local flow conditions, tissue mechanics, and biochemical pathways. Bridging this knowledge gap and translating it into clinical practice presents a challenge. In this paper, a computational model is presented to integrate chemo-mechano-biological pathways with cardiovascular biomechanics, aiming to unravel the intricacies of vascular tone regulation. The computational framework combines an algebraic description of global hemodynamics with detailed finite element analyses at the scale of vascular segments for describing their passive and active mechanical response, as well as the molecular transport problem linked with chemo-biological pathways triggered by wall shear stresses. Their coupling is accounted for by considering a two-way interaction. Specifically, the focus is on the role of nitric oxide-related molecular pathways, which play a critical role in modulating smooth muscle contraction and relaxation to maintain vascular tone. The computational framework is employed to examine the interplay between localized alterations in the biomechanical response of a specific vessel segment—such as those induced by calcifications or endothelial dysfunction–and the broader global hemodynamic conditions—both under basal and altered states. The proposed approach aims to advance our understanding of vascular tone regulation and its impact on cardiovascular health. By incorporating chemo-mechano-biological mechanisms into in silico models, this study allows us to investigate cardiovascular responses to multifactorial stimuli and incorporate the role of adaptive homeostasis in computational biomechanics frameworks.
Burnout as a multidimensional phenomenon: how can workplaces be healthy environments?
Authors: Gaspar Tania , Botelho-Guedes Fábio , Cerqueira Ana , Baban Adriana , Rus Claudia , Gaspar-Matos Margarida
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Burnout was already a significant problem before the pandemic, but in the aftermath became a serious concern and a public health and occupational health priority. This study had two aims. First, we investigated how different healthy workplace dimensions and other health individual-level variables are related to burnout. Second, we examined differences in terms of presenteeism, absenteeism, and quality of life between employees who report burnout symptoms and those who do not.

Methods

Participants were 1702 Portuguese employees from various organizations; 69.68% were female, age ranged from 18 to 72 years (mean = 43.25 years, SD = 10.40). Almost half of the participants (49.9%; 851 participants) reported having at least one burnout symptom.

Results

Participants reported that they have felt exhausted (43.7%), irritated (34.5%) and sad (30.5%) always or very often in the last 4 weeks. Regression analysis revealed that the global score on burnout symptoms was negatively related to leadership engagement, psychosocial work environment, personal health resources, health behaviours, and satisfaction with salary. In addition, the global score on burnout symptoms was positively related to worker involvement, enterprise community involvement, perceived stress, and screen time at work. Furthermore, females tend to report a higher level of burnout symptoms compared to males. In addition, burnout has an impact on sickness absenteeism, presenteeism, and quality of life.

Conclusions

Our findings have an important contribution to understanding and promoting a healthier work environment, and reinforce the need for measures and policies to promote mental health, manage stress, and prevent burnout in the workplace.
Soil carbon stock potential in pastoral and silvopastoral systems in the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Salazar Rosario , Alegre Julio , Pizarro Dante , Duff Alison J. , García Carlos , Gómez Carlos
Published: March 2024

Research evaluating the impact of silvopastoral systems on physical and biological properties of Amazonian soils is scarce. Thus, this study aimed to compare the soil carbon storage potential and physical and chemical soil properties of silvopastoral systems (SPS) and conventional pastoral systems (CPS) in the San Martin region of Peru. Using the Walkley and Black method, we analyzed soil organic matter at two different depths (0–15 cm and 15–30 cm). In addition, bulk density, soil moisture, total porosity, and mechanical resistance were measured in both systems. The highest (P < 0.05) carbon stocks were reported at 0–15 cm of depth with values of 31.4 Mg ha−1 and 34.4 Mg ha−1 for CPS and SPS, respectively. At 15–30 cm depth, the total carbon stock was higher for SPS, with 29.12 Mg ha−1, than for CPS, which had 26.4 Mg ha−1. Despite the absence of statistically significant differences, soil carbon stocks were higher in SPS. No significant differences in soil moisture were found between systems, although soil moisture was slightly greater in SPS than CPS (28 and 25%, respectively). The CPS had 59% of the total porosity, which was higher than the SPS. Mechanical resistance was lower in SPS (2.15 kg/cm2) than in CPS (2.33 kg/cm2) at 10 cm of depth. These results indicated that the SPS has the potential to store more carbon and improve physical and chemical traits in the soil than the CPS.
Procurement portfolio management for resilient supply chains: value of information for risk averse decision making
Authors: Merzifonluoglu Yasemin
Published: March 2024

In this study, we investigate the replenishment decisions for firms that rely on multiple sources of supplies, including regular forward contracts, option contracts, and the spot market. Our research aims to tackle the challenges arising due to supplier disruptions and the volatility of spot market prices that are correlated with these disruptions. We develop and solve multi-stage stochastic programming models that incorporate demand and supplier disruption information updates, while considering both risk-neutral and risk averse (CVaR) objectives. These models assist organizations with varying risk attitudes in achieving maximum performance by optimally selecting a procurement portfolio based on the availability and quality of updated information. Through analytical solutions and extensive numerical studies, our findings offer novel insights to organizations and policymakers, empowering them to enhance their supply chain resilience during critical supply disruption situations. Therefore, this research has broader implications and aligns with the multiple sustainability objectives outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Psychotherapists’ Experience with In-Session Use of Routine Outcome Monitoring: A Qualitative Meta-analysis
Authors: Jonášová Klára , Čevelíček Michal , Doležal Petr , Řiháček Tomáš
Published: March 2024

Routine outcome monitoring (ROM) has become an increasingly utilized tool in therapeutic practice that has the potential to improve therapy outcomes. This study aimed to synthesize the findings of existing qualitative studies investigating how clinicians use ROM in their work with clients. A systematic search of qualitative studies on clinicians’ experience with the use of ROM in mental health services was conducted via PsycInfo, PsycArticles, Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. Qualitative meta-analysis was used to synthesize the finding of the primary studies. Forty-seven studies met the inclusion criteria. The analysis resulted in 21 meta-categories organized into six clusters, namely (1) obtaining clinically relevant information, (2) adapting treatment, (3) facilitating communication, (4) enhancing the therapeutic relationship, (5) facilitating change in clients, and (6) personalized usage of ROM. The meta-analysis revealed that clinicians utilized ROM in diverse ways, including both informational and communicational functions. From the clinicians’ perspective, ROM was an element that, on the one hand, introduced additional structure and standardization in treatment and, on the other hand, allowed for greater flexibility and tailoring of treatment.
Predictors of Plasma Levels of Direct Oral Anticoagulants Among Patients with Atrial Fibrillation in Need of Elective Cardiac Procedures
Authors: Russo Vincenzo , Caiazza Eleonora , Femine Fiorella Chiara Delle , Pezzullo Enrica , Sarpa Sara , Ianniciello Antonio , Alfredo Caturano , D’Andrea Antonello , Golino Paolo , Nigro Gerardo
Published: March 2024

Background

The withdrawal timing of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) among patients in need of elective invasive surgery is based on DOAC pharmacokinetics in order to perform the procedure out of the DOAC peak plasma concentration. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and predictors of plasma levels of DOACs out of trough range in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) in need of elective cardiac procedure.

Materials and Methods

We evaluated all consecutive AF patients on DOAC therapy in need of elective cardiac procedure, admitted to our division from January 2022 to March 2022. All patients underwent DOAC plasma dosing the morning of procedure day. They were categorized as in range, above range, and below range, according to the DOAC reference range at the downstream point. The timing of discontinuation of DOAC therapy was considered as appropriate or not, according to the current recommendations. The clinical predictors of out-of-range DOAC plasma levels have been evaluated.

Results

We included 90 consecutive AF patients (56.6% male, mean age 72.95 ± 10.12 years); 74 patients (82.22%) showed DOAC concentration out of the expected reference range. In half of them (n, 37), the DOAC plasma concentration was below the trough reference range. Of the study population, 17.7% received inappropriate DOAC dosages (10% overdosing, 7% underdosing), and 35.5% had incorrect timing of DOAC withdrawal (26% prolonged, 9.5% shortened). At multivariable analysis, inappropriate longer DOAC withdrawal period (OR 10.13; P ≤ 0.0001) and increased creatinine clearance (OR 1.01; P = 0.0095) were the independent predictors of plasma DOAC levels below the therapeutic trough range. In contrast, diabetes mellitus (OR 4.57; P = 0.001) was the only independent predictor of DOAC plasma level above the therapeutic trough range.

Conclusion

Increased creatinine clearance and inappropriate longer drug withdrawal period are the only independent predictors of DOAC plasma levels below the reference range; in contrast, diabetes is significantly correlated with DOAC plasma levels above the reference.
Improving figures for climate change communications: Insights from interviews with international policymakers and practitioners
Authors: Bruine de Bruin Wändi , Rabinovich Lila , Weber Kate , Babboni Marianna , Ignon Lance , Wald Rachel , Dean Monica , Kashdan Alix , Luz Sigourney
Published: March 2024

Nearly 200 governments rely on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) for scientific assessments of climate change. IPCC figures are important for conveying key findings, but can be difficult for policymakers and practitioners to understand. Best practices in graph design, summarized in the IPCC’s visual style guide, recommend conducting interviews with members of the target audience before finalizing figures. Therefore, we interviewed 20 policy makers and practitioners from different countries about three figures drafted for the second order draft of the summary for policymakers associated with IPCC’s Working Group III Sixth Assessment Report. Half were frequent users and half were occasional users of climate science, but similar comments emerged from both groups. The figures received a median rating of 3, on a scale from 1 (= not easy at all to understand) to 5 (= very easy to understand). Showing the caption did not always improve these ratings. Overall, two types of recommendations emerged. First, participants suggested focusing each figure on one key message for policymakers, and removing irrelevant details. For IPCC authors, this involves making hard choices about what to show in the figure and what to leave for the text. Additionally, participants suggested straightforward fixes such as using clear titles, labels, and captions that support the key message. Based on our findings, we present recommendations for the design of climate change figures, and examples of revised figures. These recommendations should be useful for the next round of IPCC reports, and for other organizations that communicate about climate science with policymakers and practitioners.
A framework for reasoning in school mathematics: analyzing the development of mathematical claims
Authors: Valenta Anita , Rø Kirsti , Klock Sigrid Iversen
Published: March 2024

This study introduces a framework for analyzing opportunities for mathematical reasoning (MR) in school mathematics, using MR-relevant claims and their derivation as the unit of analysis. We contend that this approach can effectively capture a broad range of opportunities for MR across various teaching situations. The framework, rooted in commognition, entails identifying necessary object-level narratives (NOLs) and the processes involved in their construction and substantiation. After theoretical development, the framework was refined through analyses of mathematics lessons in Norwegian primary school classrooms. Examples from the data illustrate how to utilize the framework in analysis and what such analyses can reveal in four typical teaching situations: the introduction of new mathematical objects, the introduction of procedures, work on exercise tasks, and work on problem-solving tasks. Drawing from the analysis of these examples, we discuss the value of the framework for analyzing MR in school mathematics and how such analysis can benefit teachers and researchers.