bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Random average sampling and reconstruction in a reproducing kernel space
Authors: Li Yaxu , Xian Jun
Published: November 2023

Suppose that signals of interest reside in a reproducing kernel space defined on a metric measure space. We consider the scenario that the sampling positions are distributed on a bounded domain
of a metric measure space, and the sampling data are local averages of the original signals in a reproducing kernel space. For signals concentrated on
in that reproducing kernel space, we study the stability of this sampling procedure by establishing a weighted sampling inequality of bi‐Lipschitz type. This type of stability implies a weak version of conventional sampling inequality. We propose an iterative algorithm that reconstruct these concentrated signals from finite sampling data. The reconstruction error is characterized through the concentration ratio and the Hausdorff distance between the set of sampling positions and
. We also consider the random sampling scheme where the sampling positions are i.i.d. randomly drawn on
, and the sampling data are local averages of concentrated signals. We demonstrate that these concentrated signals can be approximated from the random sampling data with high probability when the sampling size is at least of the order
with
being the measure of
.
Effectiveness of group aerobic and/or resistance exercise programs associated with pelvic floor muscle training during prenatal care for the prevention and treatment of urinary incontinence: A systematic review
Authors: Santos Ana Clara , Dias Silvana Neves , Delgado Alexandre , Lemos Andrea
Published: November 2023

Aim

To evaluate the effectiveness of aerobic and/or resistance group exercise programs associated with pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) during prenatal care for the prevention and treatment of urinary incontinence (UI) using the best level of evidence.

Methods

A search was carried out in the MEDLINE/PubMed, LILACS, PEDro, CENTRAL, and SCOPUS databases, without restrictions. The terms “urinary incontinence” and “pregnant woman” were used. Randomized and quasi‐randomized clinical trials were included using aerobic and/or resistance exercise programs plus PFMT as an intervention compared to usual care. The Cochrane tool (RoB 2.0) and GRADE were used to assess risk of bias and certainty of evidence, respectively. Quantitative analysis was assessed by meta‐analyses.

Results

Five publications were included. There was a reduction in the reports of UI postintervention at 16 weeks (RR: 0.83; 95% CI: 0.74−0.93, one study, 762 women, random effects: p = 0.002) and after 3 months (RR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.60−0.95, one study, 722 women, random effects: p = 0.02), based on moderate certainty of evidence and improvement in UI‐specific quality of life (MD: −2.42; 95% CI: −3.32 to −1.52, one study, 151 women, random effects: p < 0.00001), based on low quality of evidence. Other results showed no difference between the postintervention groups, with low and very low evidence.

Conclusion

There is moderate evidence that the aerobic and/or resistance exercise program associated with PFMT compared to usual care can reduce postintervention UI, as well as 3 months postintervention, and that it can improve UI‐specific quality of life, but with low‐evidence certainty.
Predictive modeling of jute‐polyester composite tubes for impact performance: A comprehensive finite element analysis approach
Authors: Mache Ashok , Deb Anindya , Gunti Ranga Srinivas
Published: November 2023

This paper examines the feasibility of utilizing jute‐polyester composites as a substitute for glass fiber composites in demanding automotive impact protection. Further, the study focuses on developing accurate modeling procedures using LS‐DYNA explicit finite element analysis to predict the load–displacement responses and failures of jute‐polyester (JP) composite tubes under static and dynamic loading. Experimental tests validate the model, comparing numerical and experimental results using the Gross Correlation Index (GCI). The GCI ranged from a minimum of 0.83 to a maximum of 0.97. Strong agreement is observed, confirming the reliability of the developed finite element (FE) model. The validated modeling procedures offer insights for optimizing the design and performance of jute‐polyester composites, promoting sustainable materials in the automotive sector, particularly for applications related to vehicle interior trims.

Highlights

JP composite tubes studied under axial and transverse impact loads

Developed accurate modeling procedure using LS‐DYNA

FE model validated through experimental test results

GCI used to compare numerical and experimental results

Successful prediction of failure modes and impact parameters
Development and psychometric evaluation of the Personality Disorder Severity ICD‐11 (PDS‐ICD‐11) Clinician‐Rating Form
Authors: Sellbom Martin , Brown Tiffany A. , Bach Bo
Published: November 2023

No clinician‐rating tool has formally been developed to assess the ICD‐11 model of personality disorder (PD) severity. We therefore developed and evaluated the 14‐item personality disorder Severity ICD‐11 (PDS‐ICD‐11) Clinician‐Rating Form. A combined sample of 195 patients was rated by mental health professionals or clinical research assistants in New Zealand using the PDS‐ICD‐11 Clinician‐Rating Form. Responses were subjected to item‐response theory analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. In a subsample, we examined interrater reliability and convergence with self‐ and informant‐reported measures of personality impairment, dysfunction in various psychopathology domains, and traditional PD symptoms. Item‐response theory and confirmatory factor analyses supported the item functioning and unidimensionality, respectively, of the PDS‐ICD‐11 Clinician‐Rating Form. The interrater reliability was very promising (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.94, p < 0.001). PDS‐ICD‐11 Clinician‐Rating Form scores were associated with established measures of personality dysfunction at large effect sizes. This initial development study suggests that the PDS‐ICD‐11 Clinician‐Rating Form constitutes a psychometrically sound instrument that provides a clinically based impression of the severity of personality dysfunction according to the official ICD‐11 description. More research is needed to corroborate its validity and utility, and a structured interview is warranted for diagnostic purposes. The final PDS‐ICD‐11 Clinician‐Rating Form is included as online supporting information.
Characterization of the 2D Su–Schrieffer–Heeger Model with Second‐Nearest‐Neighbor Interactions
Authors: van Niekerk Chani Stella , Warmbier Robert
Published: November 2023

It is known that a 2D‐dimerized Su–Schrieffer–Heeger model can produce a nontrivial topological phase. It is a simple nearest‐neighbor model with four lattice sites in 2D. The Su–Schrieffer–Heeger model is easy to analyze but neglects important interaction in physical systems. Herein, an extended version of this model is proposed which includes all possible second‐nearest‐neighbor interactions in order to grant more flexibility when describing realistic systems. The addition of these interactions changes the symmetry of the model and as a result affects the topological properties. In order to characterize the topological changes to the model, a polarization invariant is used. It is further shown that these symmetry breaking interactions can be used to evoke a topological phase transition as well.
Field experiment of autonomous ship navigation in canal and surrounding nearshore environments
Authors: Kim Jonghwi , Lee Changyu , Chung Dongha , Cho Yonghoon , Kim Jinwhan , Jang Wangseok , Park Saeyong
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we present the development of autonomous navigation capabilities for small cruise boats, and their verification by field experiments in a canal and its surrounding waters. A cruise boat was converted to an autonomous surface vehicle (ASV) by installing various sensors and actuators to enable autonomous navigation. Navigation and perception sensors, such as global positioning system, attitude and heading reference system, radar, light detection and ranging (LiDAR), and cameras, were mounted on the ASV to estimate its motion and perceive the surrounding environment. Motors and potentiometers were installed for active control of the ASV. Software system components including navigation filters, object‐detection, path‐planning, and control algorithms were designed and implemented. In the narrow canal region, LiDARs were used to detect the side walls and boundaries of the canal. In open areas outside the canal, obstacles and object features were detected using various combinations of onboard sensors. A model‐based path‐planning algorithm was designed to avoid the detected obstacles, and the line‐of‐sight guidance was employed to control the vehicle. The performance of the developed system was verified through a field experiment in a real‐world maritime environment.
Design, Synthesis, Anticancer and Antimicrobial Studies of 2‐Phenylthiazolidin‐4‐one Glycinamide Conjugates
Authors: Singh Dalbir , Aggarwal Amit , Patel Rajiv , Das Anwesha , Sharma Saurabh , Behera Birasen , Panigrahy Rajashree , Maity Surjendu , Kirane Amanda R. , Kharkwal Harsha , Sankaranarayanan Murugesan , Wadhwa Pankaj , Ali Khan Azmat , Alshehri Jamilah M. , Chander Subhash
Published: November 2023

Thiazolidin‐4‐one is a versatile nucleus that has been reported to exhibit a diverse array of biological activities, including anticancer and antimicrobial activities. In the current research study, a series of C2‐(p‐substituted phenyl)‐thiazolidin‐4‐one compounds conjugated with anilines were designed and tested for drug‐likeness behaviour. Subsequently, the designed compounds were synthesized, characterized, and tested for anticancer activity against three cancer cell lines, namely liver (HEP−G2 cells), breast (MDA‐MB‐231), and glioblastoma (U87MG cells), with gemcitabine as the reference positive control drug. Initially, the compounds were tested at 50 micromolar, while the MIC was determined for the selected active compounds. Among the three cell lines, MDA‐MB‐231 showed relatively higher sensitivity towards the tested compounds. Four compounds of the series exhibited comparable or superior cytotoxicity to the reference drug gemcitabine. Particularly, N‐(p‐tolyl)‐2‐(2‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)‐4‐oxothiazolidin‐3‐yl)acetamide (6 d) displayed highest cytotoxicity among the series. The anticancer activity of the selected compounds was also tested against 3D spheroid models, in which compound N‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐2‐(2‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)‐4‐oxothiazolidin‐3‐yl)acetamide (6 a) induced apoptosis in brain tumour spheroids (MTS). Docking studies of compound 6 d were performed against different targets, namely dihydrofolate reductase, phosphoinositide 3‐kinase, epidermal growth factor receptor, dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, and murine double minute 2, which illustrated inhibition of dihydroorotate dehydrogenase as a possible mechanism of toxicity. The compounds were also evaluated in vitro for antibacterial activity against two bacterial strains (E. coli and P. aeruginosa) and a Candida albicans fungal strain.
Molecular Simulation of the Effect of Electron Donor/Acceptor Groups on Fluvoxamine/Serotonin Interactions as a Strategy for COVID‐19 Mitigation
Authors: Hadi Hamid , Louis Hitler , Jafari Komeil , Gber Terkumbur E. , Onwuabusim Nnenna A.
Published: November 2023

Fluvoxamine has been proven in studies to improve the immune system by reabsorbing serotonin and to be beneficial in limiting the spread of covid‐19 (in the early stages of the disease). The interaction between pristine fluvoxamine drug and serotonin, as well as the interaction between NO2/NH2 doped fluvoxamine drug and serotonin, was investigated in this work using the quantum theory of atom in the molecule (QTAIM) and density‐functional theory (DFT) at the B3LYP/6‐311+G (d,p) (gas phase and water media) computational level. The NH2 and NO2 doping on fluvoxamine significantly increased the adsorption energy of serotonin and improved the dipole moment, solvent energy, chemical hardness/softness, and charge/energy transfer. On the other hand, according to the results of this study, NH2 doping compared to NO2 had no significant effect on the electronic properties such as HOMO/LUMO orbital energy and its gap. From the results, the binding energy of the most stable structure (Complex‐A) was measured to be 12.59 and 11.65 kcal/mol. Based on the electronic structure analysis, an assessment of the stability of the studied systems in the gas phase reveals the following trend: Fluvoxamine‐NH2>Fluvoxamine‐NO2>Fluvoxamine‐NH2/Ser>Fluvoxamine‐NO2/Ser, with corresponding energy gaps of 4.12, 2.65, 1.98, and 1.63 eV, respectively. Therefore, NH2 doping on fluvoxamine is a harmless electronic interaction and does not significantly change the properties of the drug. It seems that increasing the absorption energy by doping the NH2 functional group can help reduce the therapeutic dose and make fluvoxamine more effective.
Theoretical Investigation of Single‐Atoms Encapsulated by Fullerenes (C59X: X=As, Ga, Ge) as Biosensors For Uric Acid (UA)
Authors: Timothy Rawlings A. , Okon Emmanuel E. D. , Gber Terkumbur E. , Onwuabusim Nnenna A. , Obianuju Nwokolo A. , Offiong Offiong E. , Adeyinka Adedapo S. , Louis Hitler
Published: November 2023

This work focuses on comparative investigation of three different doped surfaces on a nano‐cage C59As, C59Ga and C59Ge to understand their sensitivity and ability to adsorbed uric acid (UA). This is done using the density functional theory (DFT) computation, employing ωB97XD/def2SVP level of theory. After interaction of the surfaces with UA, FMO results reveal that UA@C59As is more reactive with Eg=5.1911 eV and UA@C59Ga is more stable with Eg=5.3304 eV, while UA@C59Ge is relatively reactive and relatively stable with Eg=5.2145 eV. Geometric optimization analysis reveals that UA@C59Ge shows the best interaction with the least adsorption distance (1.9437 Å) and UA@C59Ga shows a relatively good interaction with adsorption distance (1.9674 Å) while UA@C59As reveal the poorest interaction with adsorption distance of (3.6370 Å). The calculated thermodynamic parameters deduced that UA@C59Ga is more stable compared to UA@C59As and UA@C59Ge complexes, due to the fact that the calculated values of ℇ°+ℇZPE, ℇ°+Gcorr, ℇ°+Hcorr and ℇ°+Etot are less negative in compound UA@C59Ga. Negative Eads values of UA@C59As (−0.5968 eV), UA@C59Ga (−1.8798 eV) and UA@C59Ge (−1.1656 eV) were observed from adsorption studies and its sensor mechanism implying an enhanced chemical adsorption was manifested and this indicates the presence of a covalent interaction. Similarly, the result of interaction energy (Eint) reveal UA@C59Ge to have an Eint of 22.3978 eV greater than UA@C59Ga (21.5832 eV) and far greater than UA@C59As (2.4593 eV) there by confirming UA@C59Ga and UA@C59Ge to be strongly interacted. However, all analysis in this work has shown that C59Ge is the best promising biomarker candidate for adsorbing UA, although C59Ga has also demonstrated a good UA adsorption candidate.
Enhancing Structure Stability by Mg/Cr Co‐Doped for High‐Voltage Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Xu Xiaoqian , Hu Sijiang , Pan Qichang , Huang Youguo , Zhang Jingchao , Chen Yanan , Wang Hongqiang , Zheng Fenghua , Li Qingyu
Published: November 2023

P2‐Na2/3Ni1/3Mn2/3O2 cathode materials have garnered significant attention due to their high cationic and anionic redox capacity under high voltage. However, the challenge of structural instability caused by lattice oxygen evolution and P2‐O2 phase transition during deep charging persists. A breakthrough is achieved through a simple one‐step synthesis of Cr, Mg co‐doped P2‐NaNMCM, resulting in a bi‐functional improvement effect. P2‐NaNMCM‐0.01 exhibits an impressive capacity retention rate of 82% after 100 cycles at 1 C. In situ X‐ray diffraction analysis shows that the “pillar effect” of Mg mitigates the weakening of the electrostatic shielding and effectively suppresses the phase transition of P2‐O2 during the charging and discharging process. This successfully averts serious volume expansion linked to the phase transition, as well as enhances the Na+ migration. Simultaneously, in situ Raman spectroscopy and ex situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy tests demonstrate that the strong oxygen affinity of Cr forms a robust TM─O bond, effectively restraining lattice oxygen evolution during deep charging. This study pioneers a novel approach to designing and optimizing layered oxide cathode materials for sodium‐ion batteries, promising high operating voltage and energy density.
Tailoring the Hydrophobic Interface of Core–Shell HKUST‐1@Cu2O Nanocomposites for Efficiently Selective CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Wen Yan , Cheng Wen‐Hui , Wang Yi‐Rong , Shen Feng‐Cui , Lan Ya‐Qian
Published: November 2023

The electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) to ethylene creates a carbon‐neutral approach to converting carbon dioxide into intermittent renewable electricity. Exploring efficient electrocatalysts with potentially high ethylene selectivity is extremely desirable, but still challenging. In this report, a laboratory‐designed catalyst HKUST‐1@Cu2O/PTFE‐1 is prepared, in which the high specific surface area of the composites with improved CO2 adsorption and the abundance of active sites contribute to the increased electrocatalytic activity. Furthermore, the hydrophobic interface constructed by the hydrophobic material polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) effectively inhibits the occurrence of hydrogen evolution reactions, providing a significant improvement in the efficiency of CO2 electroreduction. The distinctive structures result in the remarkable hydrocarbon fuels generation with high Faraday efficiency (FE) of 67.41%, particularly for ethylene with FE of 46.08% (−1.0 V vs RHE). The superior performance of the catalyst is verified by DFT calculation with lower Gibbs free energy of the intermediate interactions with improved proton migration and selectivity to emerge the polycarbon（C2+） product. In this work, a promising and effective strategy is presented to configure MOF‐based materials with tailored hydrophobic interface, high adsorption selectivity and more exposed active sites for enhancing the efficiency of the electroreduction of CO2 to C2+ products with high added value.
Dividing, Connecting, and Complicating the Hinterland: The Lower !Garib/Orange River
Authors: Lenggenhager Luregn , Miescher Giorgio
Published: November 2023

The focus of this chapter is on the region of the Lower !Garib/Orange River, which forms the border between Namibia and South Africa. We describe the ways in which this area was constituted as a hinterland within shifting territorial formations during the colonial, apartheid, and post-colonial periods. We develop a concept of hinterland subject to historical and spatial specificity, and beyond the binary of center and periphery. We pay attention to shifting scales and changing perspectives that engendered the conception of the region as a domain of dynamic economic, political, and cultural change in the nineteenth century; a prospecting area for mining and commercial farming in the twentieth century; or a periphery marked by structural impoverishment and environmental degradation in the twenty-first century.
Concluding Thoughts
Authors: Jerolleman Alessandra , Marino Elizabeth , Jessee Nathan , Koslov Liz , Comardelle Chantel , Villarreal Melissa , de Vries Daniel , Manda Simon
Published: November 2023

We have come to the end of this broad-reaching book. It is 200 pages that attempt to weave together legal theories and contradictions within property law; case studies of relocated and relocating communities; the laws that shape those processes; and the bureaucratic discretion that interprets those laws, in order to see the tangled web of culture, law, assumption, property, power, race, and weather that create modern relocations in “response” to climate change.
Interrogating “Just Compensation” and Flexibility: Details on the Inadequacy (and Importance) of Voluntary Buyouts for Relocation in Alaska
Authors: Jerolleman Alessandra , Marino Elizabeth , Jessee Nathan , Koslov Liz , Comardelle Chantel , Villarreal Melissa , de Vries Daniel , Manda Simon
Published: November 2023

One premise of this book is that the most prominent federal solution and funding mechanism to support relocations linked to repetitive flooding is the use of voluntary buyouts and acquisitions of at-risk properties.
More on torus wormholes in 3d gravity
Authors: Yan Cynthia
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We study further the duality between semiclassical AdS3 and formal CFT2 ensembles. First, we study torus wormholes (Maldacena-Maoz wormholes with two torus boundaries) with one insertion or two insertions on each boundary and find that they give non-decaying contribution to the product of two torus one-point or two-point functions at late-time. Second, we study the ℤ2 quotients of a torus wormhole such that the outcome has one boundary. We identify quotients that give non-decaying contributions to the torus two-point function at late-time.

We comment on reflection (R) or time-reversal (T) symmetry vs. the combination RT that is a symmetry of any relativistic field theory. RT symmetry itself implies that to the extent that a relativistic quantum field theory exhibits random matrix statistics it should be of the GOE type for bosonic states and of the GSE type for fermionic states. We discuss related implications of these symmetries for wormholes.
Construction of Free Curves by Adding Lines to a Given Curve
Authors: Dimca Alexandru , Ilardi Giovanna , Pokora Piotr , Sticlaru Gabriel
Published: November 2023

In the present note we construct new families of free plane curves starting from a curveCand adding high order inflectional tangent lines ofC, lines joining the singularities of the curveC, or lines in the tangent cone of some singularities ofC. These linesLhave in common that the intersection$$C \cap L$$C∩Lconsists of a small number of points. We introduce the notion of a supersolvable plane curve and conjecture that such curves are always free, as in the known case of line arrangements. Some evidence for this conjecture is given as well, both in terms of a general result in the case of quasi homogeneous singularities and in terms of specific examples. We construct a new example of maximizing curve in degree 8 and the first and unique known example of maximizing curve in degree 9. In the final section, we use a stronger version of a result due to Schenck, Terao and Yoshinaga to construct families of free conic-line arrangements by adding lines to the conic-line arrangements of maximal Tjurina number recently classified by Beorchia and Miró-Roig inarXiv:2303.04665
A pathwise regularization by noise phenomenon for the evolutionary p-Laplace equation
Authors: Bechtold Florian , Wichmann Jörn
Published: November 2023

We study an evolutionary p-Laplace problem whose potential is subject to a translation in time. Provided the trajectory along which the potential is translated admits a sufficiently regular local time, we establish existence of solutions to the problem for singular potentials for which a priori bounds in classical approaches break down, thereby establishing a pathwise regularization by noise phenomena for this nonlinear problem.
The role of supermountain belts and climatic controls on the genesis of copper deposits in the Kupferschiefer and the Central African Copperbelt
Authors: Squire Richard J. , Keays Reid R.
Published: November 2023

Sedimentary rock–hosted stratiform copper deposits are the world’s second largest source of copper and the largest source of cobalt, with about 73% of the copper occurring in two basins: the Katangan Basin (Central African Copperbelt) and the Permian Basin (Kupferschiefer). Why these two sedimentary basins are so highly endowed in copper is puzzling because sedimentary rock–hosted stratiform copper deposits have formed since the Paleoproterozoic and they all share remarkably similar ore mineralogy, host-rock characteristics and basin settings. We suggest that this discrepancy is due to the development of these two basins close to the bases of ~ 8000-km-long supermountain belts. The supermountain belts were instrumental in raising oxygen levels in Earth’s atmosphere, as well as providing a voluminous source of groundwater and a powerful and long-lived driver for the fluid-flow system. The elevated oxygen levels facilitated the diagenetic processes that converted copper-bearing labile minerals to amorphous iron-oxides and smectite and then in turn to hematite and illite. When oxidized brines flushed through the basin successions, the liberated copper was transported to units containing carbon-rich mudstone and the metals were deposited. For the Katangan Basin, development of the Transgondwanan supermountain belt along its margins between about 525 and 510 Ma explains the delay of several hundreds of millions of years between basin formation and mineralization in the Central African Copperbelt. In contrast, development of the Mid-Pangean supermountain belt formed penecontemporaneous with the Permian Basin explains the similarity in timing between basin formation and mineralization in the Kupferschiefer.
A case study of hybrid manufacturing of a Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy hip prosthesis
Authors: Festas António José , Figueiredo Daniel Amaral , Carvalho Sílvia Ribeiro , Vo Thang Hoang , Doutre Pierre-Thomas , Villeneuve François , Ramos António Manuel , Davim João Paulo
Published: November 2023

Hybrid manufacturing (HM) is a process that combines additive manufacturing (AM) and subtractive manufacturing (SM). It is becoming increasingly recognized as a solution capable of producing components of high geometric complexity, while at the same time ensuring the quality of the surface finish, rigour and geometric tolerance on functional surfaces. This work aims to study the surface finish quality of an orthopaedic hip resurfacing prosthesis obtained by HM. For this purpose, test samples of titanium alloy Ti-6Al-4V using two Power Bed Fusion (PBF) processes were manufactured, which were finished by turning and 5-axis milling. It was verified that, upon the machining tests, no differences in Ra and Rt were found between the various types of AM. Regarding the type of SM used, 5-axis milling provided lower roughness results with a consistent value of Ra = 0.6 µm. The use of segmented circle mills in 5-axis milling proved to be an asset in achieving a good surface finish. This work successfully validated the concept of HM to produce a medical device, namely, an orthopaedic hip prosthesis.

As far as surface quality is concerned, it could be concluded that the optimal solution for this case study is 5-axis milling.
The evolution of the natural rate of interest: evidence from the Scandinavian countries
Authors: Armelius Hanna , Solberger Martin , Spånberg Erik , Österholm Pär
Published: November 2023

In this paper, the natural rate of interest in Denmark, Norway and Sweden is estimated. This is done by augmenting the Laubach and Williams (Rev Econ Stat 85:1063–1070, 2003) framework with a dynamic factor model linked to economic indicators––a modelling choice which allows us to better identify business cycle fluctuations. We estimate the model using Bayesian methods on data ranging from 1990Q1 to 2022Q4. The results indicate that the natural rate has declined substantially and in all countries is at a low level at the end of the sample.
Pharmacological update of mirtazapine: a narrative literature review
Authors: Hassanein Emad H. M. , Althagafy Hanan S. , Baraka Mohammad A. , Abd-alhameed Esraa K. , Ibrahim Islam M.
Published: November 2023

Mirtazapine (MTZ) is an antidepressant drug with an exceptional pharmacological profile. It also has an excellent safety and tolerability profile. The present review provides a pharmacological update on MTZ and summarizes the research findings of MTZ’s effects on different diseases. MTZ is hypothesized to have antidepressant effects because of the synergy between noradrenergic and serotonergic actions and is effective in treating major depressive disorder and depression associated with epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory disease. In cancer patients, MTZ significantly reduced sadness, nausea, sleep disruption, and pain and improved quality of life. Also, it has promising effects on Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, dysthymia, social anxiety disorder, alcohol dependency, posttraumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, pain syndromes, obsessive–compulsive disorder, and sleep disorders. Additionally, MTZ is potentially therapeutic in different situations associated with depression, such as liver, kidney, cardiovascular, respiratory, infertility, heavy metal-induced neurotoxicity, and pruritus. Potent antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic bioactivities mediate these promising effects. These positive outcomes of the scientific investigations motivate more and more clinical trials for a golden exceptional antidepressant in different conditions.

Graphical Abstract
A smartphone aptasensor for fipronil detection in honey samples
Authors: Svigelj Rossella , Dassi Noemi , Gorassini Andrea , Toniolo Rosanna
Published: November 2023

In this study, an electrochemical smartphone-based aptasensor for the determination of fipronil was developed by modifying a screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE). Fipronil is a broad-spectrum insecticide that has been widely used in various applications such as agriculture, veterinary, and household pest control. Recently, its use has raised concerns over the potential impact on the environment and human health. The absence of effective methods for this purpose poses a significant obstacle. To tackle this problem, we have developed a cutting-edge aptamer-based portable sensor capable of rapidly and conveniently detecting fipronil in situ. Considering that the detection of small molecules, such as fipronil, can be a challenging task, a competitive replacement assay was set up based on the aptamer’s preference for the free form of fipronil over the immobilized one on the electrode. The analytical performance provided by the sensor on standard solutions of a known fipronil content made it possible to estimate a limit of detection (LOD) equal to 1.07 μg kg−1 and a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 3.21 μg kg−1. Selectivity tests were conducted using atrazine as a possible interferent. The use and performance of the developed portable aptasensor was assessed on honey samples, which were simultaneously analyzed using an HPLC–MS method. This aptasensor could be an affordable and effective tool for accurately quantifying fipronil not only in honey samples but also in other food products.

Graphical abstract
Joint line position change in primary total knee arthroplasty: a radiographic analysis comparing conventional and robotic techniques
Authors: Cozzarelli Nicholas F. , DeSimone Cristian A. , D’Amore Taylor , Sherman Matthew B. , Lonner Jess H.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Joint line (JL) position change in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) may alter knee biomechanics and impact function. The purpose of this study was to compare the change in JL position between robotic-assisted TKA (RA-TKA) and conventional TKA (C-TKA).

Methods

A retrospective, radiographic analysis was conducted of patients who underwent RA-TKA and C-TKA to compare JL position change. JL position was measured in consecutive RA-TKAs and C-TKAs performed by four fellowship-trained arthroplasty surgeons. Statistical analysis was done utilizing t-tests and Mann Whitney U tests, with statistical significance being defined as a p value < 0.05.

Results

Six hundred total RA-TKAs and 400 total C-TKAs were included in the analysis. There were no significant differences in patient baseline characteristics such as body mass index, range of motion, and tibiofemoral coronal alignment. RA-TKAs were associated with an average of 0.04 (2.2) mm JL position change, and C-TKAs were associated with an average 0.5 (3.2) mm JL position change (p = 0.030). There were inter-surgeon differences when comparing the change in JL position for RA-TKAs and C-TKAs between the four participating surgeons.

Conclusion

RA-TKA leads to better preservation of the JL position than C-TKA, and this seems to be dependent on the arthroplasty surgeon’s preferences and techniques during TKA. Whether this statistically significant difference is clinically relevant needs to be further investigated.
Enhanced photocatalytic properties of graphene oxide/polyvinylchloride membranes by incorporation with green prepared SnO2 and TiO2 nanocomposite for water treatment
Authors: Mousa Sahar A. , Abdallah Heba , Ibrahim S. S. , Khairy S. A.
Published: November 2023

Photocatalytic membranes (PMR) have significant potential for utilization in energy-efficient water purification and wastewater treatment. The integration of membrane filtration's physical separation with photocatalysis's organic degradation is facilitated by their respective capabilities. In the present study, a more advanced graphene oxide (GO) membrane with improved photocatalytic properties was developed. This was achieved by incorporating tin dioxide (SnO2) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs) into a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) matrix, resulting in the fabrication of a microfiltration flat sheet membrane. The hydrophilicity of the membrane surface was investigated. The existence of NPs on membrane surfaces was demonstrated by FESEM images, Raman spectra, and FT-IR measurements. The porosity was affected by the addition of NPs; it increased from 59 to 76, and 92 for GO/TiO2, and GO/SnO2 respectively. The relationship between photocatalysis and filtration was investigated. Each nanocomposite membrane displayed a greater water flux and removal efficiency than a blank PVC membrane. Whereas the water flux enhanced from 1.3 to 17.6, and 20.5 for GO/TiO2, and GO/SnO2 respectively. Sunlight improves water flow and rejection compared to darkness. This research provides an alternative and highly efficient photocatalytic membrane for removing organic compounds from water, as the GO/SnO2 nanocomposites membrane exhibits the highest photocatalytic degradation up to a rejection rate of 98% when compared to an unmodified membrane.
The acute vestibular syndrome: prevalence of new hearing loss and its diagnostic value
Authors: von Werdt Moritz , Korda Athanasia , Zamaro Ewa , Wagner Franca , Kompis Martin , Caversaccio Marco D. , Mantokoudis Georgios
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To assess the prevalence of new hearing losses in patients with acute vestibular syndrome (AVS) and to start to evaluate its diagnostic value for the differentiation between peripheral and central causes.

Design

We performed a cross-sectional prospective study in AVS patients presenting to our Emergency Department (ED) from February 2015 to November 2020. All patients received an MRI, Head-impulse test, Nystagmus test and Test of skew (‘HINTS’), caloric testing and a pure-tone audiometry.

Results

We assessed 71 AVS patients, 17 of whom had a central and 54 a peripheral cause of dizziness. 12.7% had an objective hearing loss. ‘HINTS’ had an accuracy of 78.9% to diagnose stroke, whereas ‘HINTS’ plus audiometry 73.2%. ‘HINTS’ sensitivity was 82.4% and specificity 77.8% compared to ‘HINTS’ plus audiometry showing a sensitivity of 82.4% and specificity of 70.4%. The four patients with stroke and minor stroke had all central ‘HINTS’. 55% of the patients did not perceive their new unilateral hearing loss.

Conclusions

We found that almost one-eighth of the AVS patients had a new onset of hearing loss and only half had self-reported it. ‘HINTS’ plus audiometry proved to be less accurate to diagnose a central cause than ‘HINTS’ alone. Audiometry offered little diagnostic accuracy to detect strokes in the ED but might be useful to objectify a new hearing loss that was underestimated in the acute phase. Complete hearing loss should be considered a red flag, as three in four patients suffered from a central cause.
Targeting sleep and the circadian system as a novel treatment strategy for Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Feigl Beatrix , Lewis Simon J. G. , Rawashdeh Oliver
Published: November 2023

There is a growing appreciation of the wide range of sleep–wake disturbances that occur frequently in Parkinson’s disease. These are known to be associated with a range of motor and non-motor symptoms and significantly impact not only on the quality of life of the patient, but also on their bed partner. The underlying causes for fragmented sleep and daytime somnolence are no doubt multifactorial but there is clear evidence for circadian disruption in Parkinson’s disease. This appears to be occurring not only as a result of the neuropathological changes that occur across a distributed neural network, but even down to the cellular level. Such observations indicate that circadian changes may in fact be a driver of neurodegeneration, as well as a cause for some of the sleep–wake symptoms observed in Parkinson’s disease. Thus, efforts are now required to evaluate approaches including the prescription of precision medicine to modulate photoreceptor activation ratios that reflect daylight inputs to the circadian pacemaker, the use of small molecules to target clock genes, the manipulation of orexin pathways that could help restore the circadian system, to offer novel symptomatic and novel disease modifying strategies.
Implant-supported crowns on maxillary laterals and canines—a long-term follow-up of aesthetics and function
Authors: Sanatnama Elnaz , Frantz Lena , Ahlin Erik , Naoumova Julia
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To assess the long-term aesthetic and functional aspects of implant-supported crowns in lateral (ISC-L) and canine positions (ISC-C).

Materials and methods

Thirty-two patients (14 males, 18 females, mean age: 23.1, SD:2.0) with an ISC-L or ISC-C participated in this prospective cohort study at baseline (T0) and in the long-term follow-up (T1, mean years: 11.1, SD: 1.0). Twenty-four patients (11 males, 13 females) participated in T1. Patient-reported outcomes (PROM) were rated using surveys with questions related to aesthetics and function. The colour of the implant crown and the buccal gingiva, the appearance of the papilla, periodontal health and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) outcomes were assessed in a clinical examination. The Mann-Whitney, Chi-square and Signed Rank tests were performed.

Results

Patients with an ISC-L and ISC-C were equally satisfied with the crown shape and colour at T0 and T1. No differences in TMD outcomes were reported by the patients and no clinical signs of TMD were observed. At T1, ISC-C had more bleeding on probing and a three mm greater pocket depth than ISC-L (p = 0.03, p = 0.01, respectively). At T0, operators graded the crown colour of ISC-L as being too dark (35%) and ISC-C as being too light (40%). At T1, no difference was seen between the two groups regarding crown colour, gingiva colour and the papilla (p = 0.2749, p = 0.2099, p = 0.8053, respectively).

Conclusions

The PROM and clinical examination show that ISC-L and ISC-C are equivalent with regard to aesthetics and function in the long term.

Clinical relevance

Although ISC-L and ISC-C are aesthetically and functionally comparable in the long term, ISC-Cs are more likely to impact periodontal health.
Walking back from the edge: thresholds of change reveal options for adaptation to water scarcity under climate change in the Murray–Darling Basin, Australia
Authors: Lesslie Ellen , Colloff Matthew J. , Pittock Jamie
Published: November 2023

Climate change has increased the variability of river inflows in the Murray–Darling Basin, threatening the viability of irrigated agriculture, food processing industries and ecological condition of wetlands. With increasing water scarcity, decision-makers and communities face heightened contestation over scarce water resources and trade-offs and adaptation have become increasingly necessary. We used a social-ecological systems approach to identify thresholds of change in the Goulburn–Broken Catchment, a major food-producing region, to reveal options for adaptation to climate change. We developed systems models whereby feedbacks are identified between sub-systems of cultural paradigms, policies, human well-being and environmental condition. Models were constructed using data from semi-structured interviews with managers and decision-makers, industry reports and the scientific literature. We found environmental thresholds are fixed, but whether they are exceeded is socially determined. Environmental condition can be maintained by relaxing constraints on volumes of water released into the highly regulated river system and easing rules on the distribution of water among users in the dairy and horticulture industries. Socio-economic thresholds were more flexible. Industries have adapted to water scarcity through irrigation efficiency measures, inter-industry relationships for water-sharing and feed substitutes in dairy production. However, industry interdependence indicates potential for maladaption, whereas investment in adaptation and diversification offers more sustainable options. Current policy and management disconnects between water for the environment and water for food production reveal opportunities for co-benefits between environmental and socio-economic domains. Realising these benefits requires a systemic, inclusive adaptation pathways approach to design and implement options for change.
Utilization of diverse oligosaccharides for growth by Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species and their in vitro co-cultivation characteristics
Authors: Dong Yao , Han Mei , Fei Teng , Liu Huan , Gai Zhonghui
Published: November 2023

Various approaches have been used to study the relationship between prebiotics and probiotics. The utilization of different carbohydrates by probiotics depends on the biochemical properties of the enzymes and substrates required by the microbial strain. However, few studies have systematically analyzed the ability of probiotics to utilize different prebiotics. Here, we investigated the effects of prebiotics from different manufacturers on the proliferation of 13 strains of the Lactobacillus group and the genus Bifidobacterium co-cultured in vitro. Inulin, fructose-oligosaccharide (FOS), and galactose-oligosaccharide (GOS) had broad growth-promoting effects. FOS significantly promoted the proliferation of B. longum. When strains from Lactobacillus group and Bifidobacterium were co-cultured, FOS caused each strain to proliferate cooperatively. GOS was effectively used by L. rhamnosus and L. reuteri for energy and growth promotion. L. casei and L. paracasei fully metabolized inulin; these strains performed better than other strains from Lactobacillus group and Bifidobacterium. Media containing a mixture of oligosaccharides had stronger effects on the growth of B. animalis subsp. lactis, L. acidophilus, and L. rhamnosus than media containing single oligosaccharides. Thus, different oligosaccharides had different effects on the growth of probiotics, providing a scientific basis for the use of synbiotics in health and related fields.
Coppice reintroduction in the Czech Republic: extent, motivation and obstacles
Authors: Kozdasová Anežka , Galčanová Batista Lucie , Hédl Radim , Szabó Péter
Published: November 2023

Coppicing is a form of forest management in European broadleaved forests. While it is still practised in south-eastern Europe, in central and western Europe it was almost completely replaced by high forest management. Currently, there are increasing efforts to reintroduce coppice management into former coppice woods. However, little comprehensive knowledge is available about the extent and management of coppice reintroduction and the processes governing it. In this paper, we present an overview of localities in the Czech Republic where coppice reintroduction was taking place in 2020. We identified 8 localities and conducted 10 semi-structured interviews with experts involved in their management in order to understand what motivated them to restart coppicing and what obstacles they have had to face. The main motivation of site managers is nature conservation, while the most important obstacles are operational issues, such as bureaucracy, complicated land ownership and legal responsibilities or lack of workforce. Other motivating factors identified in other European countries (production of a renewable energy source and potential for rural employment) have so far played a minor role in the Czech Republic. We conclude that a major challenge for future forest policies will be to utilise the economic experiences of regions with active coppicing to foster the spread of coppice woods in order to combine renewable energy production with biodiversity conservation.
The integrated curriculum and student empathy: a longitudinal multi-cohort analysis
Authors: Herber-Valdez Christiane R. , Blow Julie A. , Salazar Tammy T. , Horn Kathryn V. , Herrera Dyanne G. , Lacy Naomi L. , Beinhoff Lisa , de la Rosa J. Manuel
Published: November 2023

Research has demonstrated erosion of empathy in students during medical education. Particularly, U.S. studies have demonstrated empathy declines during clinical training in the third and fourth year of traditional medical programs. Yet, studies conducted outside the U.S. have not confirmed this trend. Timing and extent of patient interactions have been identified as empathy-protective factors. The need to examine empathy within different learning contexts has been noted, as has the need for longitudinal and time-series research designs to analyze trajectories. Between fall 2010 and spring 2019, we assessed empathy longitudinally among six student cohorts (N = 493) at a U.S. medical school, where patient interaction occurs early and throughout an integrated curriculum. Empathy levels of students in each cohort were assessed at five time points utilizing the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy-Student version. We hypothesized empathy levels will not degrade by program end, and trajectories will not show patterns of decline in Years Three and Four. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Linear Mixed Model (LMM) analyses were used to analyze differences at baseline and changes in empathy trajectories. ANOVA analyses revealed statistically significant differences at baseline by class cohort (F(5, 487) = [23.28], p < 0.001). LMM analyses indicated empathy was either significantly higher or not different at the end of the program (F(19, 1676) = [13.97], p < 0.001). Empathy trajectories varied among cohorts; yet, none resulted in an overall empathy decline by the end of the program. Findings demonstrate empathy in U.S. medical students can be unchanged or higher by the end of medical education. Outcomes are consistent with reports of non-declining medical student empathy outside the U.S. and support the notion of context-specificity. Results further support recent research, suggesting decreases in empathy during training can stabilize or increase by program end. These findings have important implications for future empathy research context and design considerations, as well as program planning.