bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Surface Texturing on Friction and Lubrication of Ti6Al4V Biomaterials for Joint Implants
Authors: Ranuša Matúš , Odehnal Lukáš , Kučera Ondřej , Nečas David , Hartl Martin , Křupka Ivan , Vrbka Martin
Published: December 2024

The number of endoprosthetic implants for both large and small joints is increasing at a steady rate, thereby creating a growing demand for durable products that closely replicate the functionality of human joints. Notwithstanding the aforementioned advancements, challenges pertaining to implant fixation and tribological surfaces persist. The advent of progressive technologies, such as three-dimensional printing, offers a promising avenue for addressing these challenges in implant design and surface engineering. The Ti6Al4V and CoCrMo alloys, renowned for their biocompatibility and osseointegration properties, represent promising printable materials, although they are susceptible to wear on articulating surfaces. In order to mitigate the effects of abrasion, it is essential to implement surface treatments to facilitate the formation of a robust lubricating film. This research investigates the potential of texturing and electrochemical polishing to enhance protein aggregation in the contact area. The study employs a reciprocating simulator and colorimetric interferometry to observe the contact area and measure the coefficient of friction (CoF) of modified surfaces. The findings demonstrate that textured surfaces and the combination of electrochemical polishing result in an increase in the thickness of the protein lubrication film, which may potentially reduce wear. These outcomes suggest the potential for the utilization of Ti6Al4V alloy implants with fewer elements manufactured by additive technology.

Graphical Abstract
Coagulation-Flocculation/Pyrolysis Integrated System for Dye-Laden Wastewater Treatment: A Techno-Economic and Sustainable Approach
Authors: Msemwa Gelasius Gregory , Nasr Mahmoud , Abdelhaleem Amal , Fujii Manabu , Ibrahim Mona G.
Published: December 2024

While several studies have employed coagulation-flocculation (CF) for textile wastewater (TW) treatment, conventional process optimization techniques cause insufficient pollution reduction and large sludge volume generation that deteriorate the environmental matrix and elevate the system’s operating cost. To avoid these drawbacks, this study focuses on optimizing an integrated CF/pyrolysis process using artificial intelligence technique and response surface methodology (RSM) for the dual benefit of TW treatment and biochar production. In the CF experiment, water hyacinth (WH) was employed as a bio-coagulant material for TW treatment under different pH, coagulant dosage, mixing speed, and settling time levels. Under the optimum CF conditions yielded by RSM and artificial neural network (ANN) models (initial pH: 5.5 vs. 5.7, WH dosage: 3.76 g/L vs. 3.5 g/L, settling time: 116 min vs. 102 min, and slow mixing speed: 25 rpm vs. 23 rpm), incomparable removal efficiencies for dye (87.3% vs. 91.3%) and turbidity (93.4% vs. 98.2%) were obtained. These removal efficiencies dropped to 83.5% and 87.6%, respectively, for operating the CF process using unoptimized operating factors. The pyrolysis of post-coagulation sludge yielded a carbon-rich biochar material characterized by a porous structure and abundant cationic microelements. The integrated performance of the CF/pyrolysis scheme under ANN-based optimal conditions achieved a shorter payback period of 5.2 years compared to RSM (5.7 years) and unoptimized (7.9 years) conditions. Furthermore, the optimized scheme supported several sustainable development goals that complied with clean water, good health, and climate change mitigation.

Graphical Abstract
Estimates of walking prevalence and volume for U.S. cancer survivors and those without cancer: overall, by sex, and by race and ethnicity
Authors: Tribby Calvin P. , Alismail Sarah , Nukavarapu Nivedita , Yang Jiue-An , Jankowska Marta M.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper estimated overall, by sex, and by race and ethnicity walking behaviors in the cancer survivor population, where prevalence is not known, compared to those without cancer.

Methods

Data from the 2015 and 2020 National Health Interview Survey (n = 54,542) were used to estimate walking behaviors. Multivariable logistic regression models estimated walking behavior prevalence with predictive margins and volume of weekly minutes overall and stratified by sex and race/ethnicity. Walking behaviors for breast and prostate cancer survivors were also examined.

Results

There were no significant differences in adjusted prevalence for walking behaviors overall or by race/ethnicity for women. However, there were significant differences for men, with cancer survivors’ any reported walking at 62.6% (95% CI: 60.1, 65.4) compared to men without cancer, 65.9% (95% CI: 65.1%, 66.8%) (p = 0.02). There was also a difference in transportation only walking for men, with cancer survivors reporting 6.8% (95% CI: 5.5%, 8.2%), compared to men without cancer, 9.1% (8.5%, 9.6%) (p = 0.008); a similar pattern was observed for transportation walking for non-Hispanic white men. There were no differences in walking prevalence among breast cancer survivors, but overall prostate cancer survivors reported less walking for both purposes as did non-Hispanic white survivors. Leisure walking volume for cancer survivors, both women and men, was higher than for those without cancer. Median leisure walking minutes for non-Hispanic white women, 120 min (95% CI: 120, 140) was higher than those without cancer, 105 min (95% CI: 105, 120) (p = 0.002). Median leisure walking minutes for non-Hispanic white men, 120 min (95% CI: 120, 140), was higher than those without cancer, 100 min (95% CI: 100, 105) (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Overall, there are no significant differences in walking prevalence for women, but men cancer survivors reported less overall walking, walking for transportation, or walking for both purposes. However, volume of leisure walking was higher for cancer survivors compared to those without cancer.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

For cancer survivors, this suggests that even though prevalence of leisure walking was similar, volume of weekly minutes was higher compared to those without cancer. This suggests that for cancer survivors, leisure walking is an accessible and important source of physical activity.
Comparison of invasive and non-invasive gradients before and after TAVI and their implications on clinical outcomes
Authors: Pfenniger Anna , Stolte Thorald , Reichl Jakob Johannes , Leibundgut Gregor , Wagener Max , Kaiser Christoph , Boeddinghaus Jasper , Mahfoud Felix , Nestelberger Thomas
Published: December 2024

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is recommended for treatment of high-risk aortic stenosis patients. While measuring mean transaortic valve gradient (MG) is crucial in evaluating procedural success, echocardiographic measurements often overestimate direct invasive measurements. This study aimed to examine the discordance between echocardiographic and invasive MGs in TAVI patients and assess their prognostic value on long-term outcomes. This prospective registry included consecutive TAVI patients at a tertiary university hospital. Transthoracic or transoesophageal echocardiography was performed pre-TAVI, at discharge, 1 month, 1, and 5 years with invasive MG measurements obtained peri-procedurally. The primary endpoints were 5-year all-cause mortality and major adverse cardiac events. Among 1353 patients from 2011 to 2023, non-invasive MGs exceeded invasive MGs pre- and post-implantation (43 [36, 52] mmHg vs. 40 [30, 50] mmHg, p < 0.001; 9 [6, 12] mmHg vs. 4 [2, 7] mmHg, p < 0.001) Pre-procedural MGs correlated better than post-procedural MGs (r = 0.70, p < 0.001 vs. r = 0.23, p < 0.001), particularly in self-expandable valves and smaller sinus of Valsalva diameter (SOVd) (r = 0.33, p < 0.001; r = 0.46, p < 0.001 vs R = 0.06, p = 0.701). Non-invasive MG remained stable from discharge (9 [6, 12] mmHg) to 5 years (9 [7, 12] mmHg). While structural valve deterioration and patient-prosthesis mismatch showed no impact, extreme invasive MGs (< 3 or > 6 mmHg) predicted worse outcomes (mortality hazard: 1.25 [1.06, 1.88] and 0.85 [0.8, 0.95], respectively), unlike non-invasive measurements. In conclusion, invasive as compared with non-invasive MGs correlated better before than after valve implantation, whereas invasive MGs were always lower than non-invasive MGs. Lower invasive MGs after TAVI appeared to be associated with favourable long-term outcomes.
Can triad forestry reconcile Europe’s biodiversity and forestry strategies? A critical evaluation of forest zoning
Authors: Nagel Thomas A. , Rodríguez-Recio Mariano , Aakala Tuomas , Angelstam Per , Avdagić Admir , Borowski Zbigniew , Bravo-Oviedo Andrés , Brazaitis Gediminas , Campagnaro Thomas , Ciach Michał , Curovic Milic , Doerfler Inken , Fotakis Dimitrios , Govedar Zoran , Gregor Konstantin , Gültekin Yaşar Selman , Heilmann-Clausen Jacob , Hoffmann Johanna , Hofmeister Jeňýk , Jansone Diāna , Jansons Āris , Kepfer-Rojas Sebastian , Lachat Thibault , Lapin Katharina , Lõhmus Asko , Manton Michael , Mikac Stjepan , Mikoláš Martin , Mohren Frits , Nordén Björn , Odor Peter , Oettel Janine , Paillet Yoan , Panayotov Momchil , Roibu Catalin-Constantin , Sitzia Tommaso , Svoboda Miroslav , Tanács Eszter , Trentanovi Giovanni , Vacchiano Giorgio , van der Sluis Theo , Zlatanov Tzvetan , Burrascano Sabina
Published: December 2024

Balancing increasing demand for wood products while also maintaining forest biodiversity is a paramount challenge. Europe’s Biodiversity and Forest Strategies for 2030 attempt to address this challenge. Together, they call for strict protection of 10% of land area, including all primary and old growth forests, increasing use of ecological forestry, and less reliance on monocultural plantations. Using data on country wide silvicultural practices and a new database on strict forest reserves across Europe, we assess how triad forest zoning could help meet these goals. Our analysis reveals that zoning in Europe is overwhelmingly focused on wood production, while there has been little concomitant protection of forests in strict reserves. Moreover, most strict forest reserves are < 50 ha in size, likely too small to capture the minimum dynamic area necessary to sustain many taxa. We outline research priorities to meet future demands for timber while minimizing the impact on native biodiversity.
Exploring microRNA signatures in pediatric non-infectious uveitis: meta-analysis and molecular profiling of patient samples
Authors: Wawrzyniak Olga , Wawrzyniak Dariusz , Smuszkiewicz Michał , Głodowicz Paweł , Gotz-Więckowska Anna , Rolle Katarzyna
Published: December 2024

To find a distinct non-coding RNA characteristic for idiopathic uveitis in the pediatric population. To explore the autoimmune-related miRNA expression profile in pediatric patients with idiopathic uveitis (IU) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis–associated uveitis (JIA-AU) and find a common molecular background for idiopathic uveitis and other autoimmune diseases. The expression levels of miRNAs were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR using serum samples from patients with idiopathic uveitis (n = 8), juvenile idiopathic arthritis–associated uveitis (n = 7), and healthy controls. We selected the most promising miRNAs from the original research papers: miR-16-5p, miR-26a-5p, miR-145-5p, and miR-451a as markers for juvenile idiopathic arthritis; miR-23a-3p, miR-29a-3p, miR-140-5p, miR-193a-5p, and miR-491-5p for uveitis in the adult population; and miR-125a-5p, miR-146a-5p, miR-155-5p, miR-223-5p, and miR-223-3p characteristic for both diseases and confirm their expression changes in serum from children with idiopathic uveitis. We comprehensively reviewed the literature enrolling the papers that met the inclusion criteria (miRNA and non-infectious uveitis/juvenile idiopathic arthritis) and performed target prediction analysis of appoint miRNAs. It additionally confirmed that altered miRNAs target the immunologically involved genes. Immunological-involved miRNAs such as miR-146a-5p and miR-155-5p show diverse expression levels in different patients as they interact with multiple targets. miR-204-5p is downregulated in both patient groups compared to healthy controls. miR-204-5p and miR-155-5p are candidates for molecular markers of autoimmune uveitis. We did not identify the miRNAs specific only to idiopathic uveitis, but for the first time in the pediatric population, we confirmed that this disease entity shares a molecular basis with other autoimmune diseases. Further studies are required to elucidate the molecular interactions among miRNAs, cytokines, and transcription factors within the intricate immune response, particularly in the eye.
Adapting Team-Based Learning for Medical Education: A Case Study with Scalable and Resource-Efficient Implementation
Authors: Jansen Michaela , Kim Cavdar Irina
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Team-based learning (TBL) is a structured collaborative learning strategy where students are able to apply conceptual knowledge in small groups through a sequence of activities comprised of preparation, individual readiness assurance testing, teamwork, and team readiness assurance testing, typically followed by an application exercise. TBL has been gaining popularity in many education institutions and programs across the world and in the USA. This study marks the beginning of implementing TBL as a major active learning modality at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine. Through this initiative, we present TBL as a versatile and adaptable method to improve students’ learning and examination outcomes.

Methods

TBL sessions are conducted in three steps: pre-class preparation, in-class readiness assurance testing, and application-focused exercise. The present study used a modified or abbreviated format, consisting of pre-class preparation and in-class individual readiness assurance test (iRAT) and team readiness assurance test (tRAT) followed by immediate feedback. A Pilot Phase was used to engage early-adopter faculty and optimize session parameters, and an Implementation Phase was used for one organ system, with both phases in the pre-clerkship curriculum and a class size of 180 students. During the Pilot Phase, student participation was voluntary, whereas in the Implementation Phase, participation counted towards a selective session attendance requirement. Therefore, student numbers were significantly smaller during the Pilot Phase supporting gradual optimization of session organization.

Results

iRAT, tRAT, and summative end of organ system section National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) scores were analyzed. We find that participation in an increasing number of TBLs was associated with increased iRAT scores and a decreased performance gap between highest and lowest performers, where the increase in the scores of lowest performers was more substantial than the increase in the scores of highest performers. NBME score analysis showed that TBL participation increased examination performance by an average of 2.4% per TBL session attended.

Conclusions

We present an implementation strategy for TBL sessions using a two-phased approach. Our process implementation provides a clear roadmap for other health professions or medical schools to implement TBL format sessions in their specific educational context. Importantly, the unique, abbreviated TBL format presented here facilitates implementation and adaptation. Observed learning strategies during tRAT that have been demonstrated to be effective include elaboration, dual coding, specific examples, interleaving, and retrieval practices. Overall, the results indicate a positive impact of TBL participation on final summative exam scores.
Understanding dislocation velocity in TaW using explainable machine learning
Authors: Kedharnath A. , Kapoor Rajeev , Sarkar Apu
Published: December 2024

The present work calculated the velocity of edge dislocations in the Ta–W system using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and through machine learning (ML), identified the key parameters influencing the velocity. To achieve this, MD simulations were conducted at various values of the extrinsic parameters—temperatures and applied stresses ($${\tau }_{\text{app}}$$

τ
app

), and the intrinsic variables—slip systems and alloying contents of tungsten in tantalum. Configurations containing edge dislocations on {110}/{112}/{123} planes were employed, and dislocation velocities were subsequently estimated. The MD results were processed using ML models, specifically extreme gradient boosting and SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP). SHAP analysis identified $${\tau }_{\text{app}}$$

τ
app

as the most influencing parameter affecting velocity, followed by slip plane, temperature, and W addition. SHAP estimated the base velocity value ($${v}_{\text{b}}$$

v
b

) to be 1376 m·s-1. $${v}_{\text{b}}$$

v
b

was calculated by training SHAP on a parameter-less model. $${v}_{\text{b}}$$

v
b

could be increased by applying $${\tau }_{\text{app}}$$

τ
app

of at least 1 GPa, through slipping on the {112} and {123} planes, at temperatures of 0 and 300 K, and in configurations with 0 wt.% and 5 wt.% W. The importance of $${v}_{\text{b}}$$

v
b

on deformation was established.
Children's Online Language and Interaction
Authors: Tudini Vincenza
Published: December 2024

Children spend a significant amount of time interacting online rather than face-to-face. Yet we know very little about the language they use during interaction, whether they are gaming or texting. Drawing on cutting-edge research, this timely book applies Conversation Analysis (CA) techniques to investigate children's online language and interaction. Tudini provides a step-by-step analysis of authentic posts made by children on social media, messaging apps and gaming platforms, highlighting linguistic and interactional features. The book addresses the risks inherent in children's online interaction and the role of protective adults, yet also celebrates children's linguistic creativity and ability to adapt to new forms of communication. It also provides principled advice on how to support children in integrating online interaction into their lives productively and safely, to assist parents and teachers. Addressing a highly topical area, it is essential reading for students and researchers of applied linguistics, communication, education and sociology.
Glory, Humiliation, and the Drive to War
Authors: Eisikovits Nir
Published: December 2024

From Hitler's determination to erase Germany's disgrace after World War I, to Sadat's promise to undo Egypt's humiliation in 1967, to ISIS's proclamations that it would end the “emasculation” of Muslims and restore the glory of the Caliphate, a sense of political humiliation and a desire for martial glory have always been central in the drive to war. Yet although glory and humiliation are the twin engines of conflict, and together they spur individuals and nations to violence, philosophers have shown little interest in these dispositions. In this book Nir Eisikovits offers a philosophical account of political humiliation, martial glory, and the relationship between them. Drawing on philosophy, literature, and psychology, Eisikovits argues that it is impossible to understand why people are drawn to war and how wars are justified without making sense of these two political passions and the ways in which they inflame each other.
Merchants of Legalism
Authors: Nissel Alan Tzvika
Published: December 2024

Since the United Nations finalised its Draft Articles on the Responsibility of States for Internationally Wrongful Acts in 2001, most of the attention has been on the codification history of the topic. Alan Nissel widens the historic lens to include the pre-United Nations origins, offering the first extensive study on the American contribution to the modern law of state responsibility. The book examines the recurring narrative of lawyers using international law to suit the particular needs of their clients in three key contexts: the US turn to international arbitration practice in the New World, the German theorisation of public law in the setting of its national unification, and the multilateral effort to codify international law within world bodies. This expanded historical framework not only traces the pre-institutional origins of the code, but also highlights the duality of State responsibility doctrines and the political environments from which they emerged.
Time Series for Economics and Finance
Authors: Linton Oliver
Published: December 2024

Focusing on methods for data that are ordered in time, this textbook provides a comprehensive guide to analyzing time series data using modern techniques from data science. It is specifically tailored to economics and finance applications, aiming to provide students with rigorous training. Chapters cover Bayesian approaches, nonparametric smoothing methods, machine learning, and continuous time econometrics. Theoretical and empirical exercises, concise summaries, bolded key terms, and illustrative examples are included throughout to reinforce key concepts and bolster understanding. Ancillary materials include an instructor's manual with solutions and additional exercises, PowerPoint lecture slides, and datasets. With its clear and accessible style, this textbook is an essential tool for advanced undergraduate and graduate students in economics, finance, and statistics.
Extensive Reading
Authors: Zhou Jing
Published: December 2024

This Element focuses on extensive reading (ER), a language learning and teaching approach that encourages language learners to read a large amount of interesting and level-appropriate reading materials. Extensive reading has been adopted across educational spectrums, including higher, secondary, and elementary levels, and implemented in diverse language contexts such as English, Chinese, Italian, Spanish, and French. The primary objective of this Element is to offer comprehensive insights into the theoretical foundations of ER, analyze its multifaceted benefits to language learning, address the challenges encountered in its implementation, and propose effective strategies drawn from research for these challenges. The Element concludes with an overview of the latest trends and developments in ER.
The Age of Paper
Authors: Shin Hiroki
Published: December 2024

In the first detailed examination of Britain's transition to paper currency, Hiroki Shin explores how state, nation and community each played their respective role in its introduction. By examining archival materials and personal accounts, Shin's work sheds fresh light on societal, institutional, communal and individual responses to the transformation. The dominance of communal currency during the Bank Restriction period (1797–1821) demonstrates how paper currency derived its value from the community of users rather than the state or the intrinsic value of precious metal. Shin traces the expanded use of the Bank of England note – both geographically and socially – in this period, revealing the economic and social factors that accelerated this shift and the cultural manifestations of the paper-based monetary regime, from everyday politics to bank-note forgeries. This book serves as an essential resource for those interested in understanding the modern monetary system's historical origins.
Constitutional Reforms in China
Authors: Zhang Qianfan
Published: December 2024

This book offers the reformist perspective of one of the most persistent and outspoken constitutional reformers in China. Through the analysis of landmark constitutional events in China since the late nineteenth century, it reveals the fatal dilemma faced by constitutional reform and the deadly dangers of any violent revolution that arises out of the frustration with the repeated failures of reform. Although there is no easy way out of such a predicament, the book analyzes available resources in the existing system and suggests possible strategies that might bring success to future constitutional reforms.
Europe and the British Left
Authors: Parker Owen , Bishop Matthew Louis , Lindstrom Nicole
Published: December 2024

The European question has divided the Labour Party and the progressive left for over fifty years. The contemporary left-wing antithesis to the EU harks back to Bennite anti-marketeer narratives: a neoliberal EU undermines the potential for national progressive policies in relation to labour markets, state intervention and finance. However, many make the case that the EU's four freedoms support a progressive politics: the single market project embeds social and workers' rights, challenges member state support for large corporate interests and facilitates free movement for EU citizens.

There is, in short, a progressive dilemma for the British left in relation to the European issue, which the authors navigate through the analysis of four policy issues that arose during the Brexit debate and remain significant for British politics and for the left in particular: free trade and the single market, industrial policy and state aid, free movement of persons and finance. Crucially, they point to a route beyond this dilemma for both Europe and the British left.
Warmonger
Authors: Bellamy Alex J.
Published: December 2024

Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 was a war long in the making and is the latest in a series of military interventions that have showcased Vladimir Putin's deadly imperial ambitions and the ruthless and bloody strategies that serve his vision of a greater Russia. Putin's Russia wants its empire back and it has taken the events in Ukraine for the West to finally realize it.

Alex Bellamy examines the road to Ukraine 2022 and charts the path from Chechnya, Putin's first war which helped propel him to the presidency, through to conflict in Georgia, Crimea, the South Caucasus and Syria. He shows the central role war has played in Putin's rule and how it has helped craft a new social contract between president and people grounded in a shared vision of Russian national identity. For anyone wanting to understand the hows and whys of the war in Ukraine, Alex Bellamy's clear and insightful analysis is a must-read.
Geoliberal Europe and the Test of War
Authors: Youngs Richard
Published: December 2024

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has pushed Europe into a new strategic era. The knock-on effects of the war have combined to open a period of reordering across the European continent. European governments and the European Union collectively have begun to fashion policies for this shift, recognizing this to be a pivotal historical moment.

Richard Youngs unpacks the different dynamics that have come to characterize European policies in the wake of the war: the nature of EU integration, geopolitical power, defence priorities, European borders, liberal values, the green transition and economic sovereignty. The book looks to the future and outlines the issues and choices with which European governments still need to grapple. Youngs develops the notion of geoliberalism as a way of addressing these challenges and guiding European governments and the EU into the fragile order taking shape in the shadow of Ukraine's war.
2023 ASR Distinguished Lecture: Decoloniality and Its Fissures. Whose Decolonial Turn?
Authors: Ogude James
Published: December 2024

This paper examines the fissures within recent decolonial debates, arguing for the privileging of alternative narratives from formerly colonized groups and a shift away from centring colonialism. It calls for the recognition of decolonial struggles whose histories run deep and the need to link the struggles with indigeneity, its poetics of relations, and connectedness. Therefore, decoloniality requires thinking and doing and paying attention to social and economic well-being of hitherto marginalized indigenous communities, while giving due recognition to their poetics of relationality, reciprocity, and conviviality. Drawing on the example of #RhodesMust Fall movement in South Africa, it raises difficult questions around ownership, agency, while pointing to cracks that this contemporary movement surfaced, in spite of its claim to decoloniality.
Post-compression of the GW-level femtosecond pulse in a solid-state multi-pass cell
Authors: Shen Liya , Song Jiajun , Peng Yujie , Luo Guangxin , Liu Yinfei , Sun Jianyu , Leng Yuxin
Published: December 2024

We demonstrate the post-compression of the GW-level femtosecond pulse in a solid-state multi-pass cell (MPC) by the pre-chirp management method. When the laser pulse is positively pre-chirped, the 200 μJ 170 fs input pulse is compressed to 163 μJ 44 fs at the output, corresponding to a transmission of 81% and a pulse shortening factor of 3.86. When the laser pulse is negatively pre-chirped, the spectral evolution, as the pulse propagates in the MPC, is characterized and, eventually, the pulse duration is compressed to 51 fs, corresponding to a pulse shortening factor of 3.3. After the driving laser goes through the pre-chirp managed MPC device, the power stability and beam quality are almost preserved. The experimental results offer a viable path toward the post-compression of high-peak-power laser pulses.
The adoption and compliance to central line-associated bloodstream infection insertion and maintenance bundle programs in intensive care unit settings across Canada
Authors: Zhou Zhi Lin , Silva Anada , Cannon Kristine , Chow Blanda , Comeau Jeannette L. , Ellis Chelsey , Frenette Charles , Hadzic Amir , Happe Jennifer , Johnston Lynn , Katz Kevin C. , Khan Jamal , Langley Joanne M. , Lee Bonita E. , Lee Santina , Lefebvre Marie-Astrid , Lybeck Cassandra , McGeer Allison , Neitzel Andrew , Parsonage Jennifer , Patterson Connie , Quach Caroline , Science Michelle , Smith Stephanie W. , Thampi Nisha , Titoria Reena , Tomlinson Jen , Vayalumkal Joseph , Suh Kathryn N. , Srigley Jocelyn A. ,   the Canadian Nosocomial Infection Surveillance Program
Published: December 2024

Evidence-based insertion and maintenance bundles are effective in reducing the incidence of central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) in intensive care unit (ICU) settings. We studied the adoption and compliance of CLABSI prevention bundle programs and CLABSI rates in ICUs in a large network of acute care hospitals across Canada.
Internally heated convection with rotation: bounds on heat transport
Authors: Arslan Ali
Published: December 2024

This work investigates heat transport in rotating internally heated convection, for a horizontally periodic fluid between parallel plates under no-slip and isothermal boundary conditions. The main results are the proof of lower bounds on the mean temperature,

$\overline {{\langle {T} \rangle }}$

, and the heat flux out of the bottom boundary,

${\mathcal {F}}_B$

, at infinite Prandtl number, where the Prandtl number is the non-dimensional ratio of viscous to thermal diffusion. The lower bounds are functions of the Rayleigh number quantifying the ratio of internal heating to diffusion and the Ekman number,

$E$

, which quantifies the ratio of viscous diffusion to rotation. We utilise two different estimates on the vertical velocity,

$w$

, one pointwise in the domain (Yan, J. Math. Phys., vol. 45(7), 2004, pp. 2718–2743) and the other an integral estimate over the domain (Constantin et al., Phys. D: Non. Phen., vol. 125, 1999, pp. 275–284), resulting in bounds valid for different regions of buoyancy-to-rotation dominated convection. Furthermore, we demonstrate that similar to rotating Rayleigh–Bénard convection, for small

$E$

, the critical Rayleigh number for the onset of convection asymptotically scales as

$E^{-4/3}$

.
Bounding heat transport in supergravitational turbulent thermal convection
Authors: Ding Zijing
Published: December 2024

This paper derives the upper bound on heat transport in supergravitational turbulent thermal convection analytically and numerically. Using a piecewise background profile, the functional inequality analysis delivers a suboptimal bound

$Nu\lesssim -({3\sqrt {3}}/{2})({\eta \ln (\eta )}/({1-\eta ^2}))\,Ra^{1/2}$

as

$Ra\rightarrow \infty$

, where

$Nu$

is the Nusselt number,

$\eta$

is the radius ratio of the inner cylinder to the outer cylinder (

$0<\eta <1$

), and

$Ra$

is the Rayleigh number. A variational problem yielded from Doering–Constantin–Hopf formalism is solved asymptotically and numerically, which delivers a better upper bound than the piecewise background profile. The asymptotic analysis and numerical data indicate that the current best bound is given by

$Nu\leqslant -0.106({\eta \ln (\eta )}/({(1-\eta )(1+\sqrt {\eta })^2}))\,Ra^{1/2}$

. Both analytical and numerical results demonstrate that the upper bound can be significantly reduced by the curvature effect. Unlike the traditional Rayleigh–Bénard turbulence, in which the optimal perturbation yielded from the variational problem is always two-dimensional, the present study shows that three-dimensional perturbations, annular perturbations and axisymmetric perturbations can be induced by the curvature effect simultaneously. However, we show that the bound yielded from the three-dimensional variational problem is very close to the axisymmetric situation as

$\eta$

increases and

$Ra$

increases.
The Corruption of “Corruption”
Authors: Kovach Adam
Published: December 2024

Our contemporary understanding of political corruption draws from two different sources, a modern view that corruption occurs where officials follow improper procedures and a more ancient view of corruption as a systemic failure to live up to political ideals. The ability to shift between these views makes it easy for political partisans to locate corruption where it suits their political interests. Since accusations of corruption easily become challenges to the legitimacy of officeholders and institutions, there is danger in carelessness with the language of corruption. Awareness of these circumstances should lead us to be cautious with the language of corruption and to resist its slide toward becoming a mere means of political struggle.
Relationship between the ratio of increase in lean tissue to body weight gain and energy required to gain body weight in growing rats
Authors: Obikawa Kiyora , Kitaguchi Mizuki , Kondo Emi , Okamura Koji
Published: December 2024

Although the energy stored in the lean tissue (LT) and adipose tissue (AT) is well known, the energy required to synthesise these tissues is obscure. Theoretically, the energy at the point at which ΔLT/Δ body weight (BW) reaches 100 % on a regression line, which indicates the relationship between ΔLT/ΔBW and the energy required for BW gain, is considered to be the energy expended to synthesise LT. Therefore, we investigated this relationship in rats. Rats were fed diets with different ratios of protein, fat and carbohydrates because their ΔLT/ΔBW values were expected to be different. Six-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats had ad libitum access to normal (N, n 6), high-fat (HF, n 7) or high-protein (HP, n 8) diets for 4 weeks. The ΔLT/ΔBW was 0·77 in the N, 0·70 in the HF and 0·87 in the HP groups, respectively. The average energy required to gain BW was 8·8 kJ/g in the N group, 7·0 kJ/g in the HF group and 11·3 kJ/g in the HP group. We observed a positive correlation between ΔLT/ΔBW and energy required for BW gain. The regression line demonstrated that the energy expended to synthesise LT was 13·9 kJ/g and AT was −7·9 kJ/g. Therefore, combined with the energy stored in LT, the energy required to accumulate LT is approximately 19 kJ/g, whereas the energy to accumulate AT could not be elucidated.
Gyrokinetic simulation of turbulence under lower hybrid wave and electron cyclotron wave combined heating on EAST
Authors: Xiao Zhengyao , Li Xinxia , Zhong Qi , Li Miaohui
Published: December 2024

On the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST), the electron cyclotron wave (ECW) and lower hybrid wave (LHW) are actively used to achieve a high-performance plasma. Turbulence associated with the combined heating experiment is studied numerically based on the gyrokinetic toroidal code (GTC). The linear simulation results show that the unstable mode peaks at

$k_{\theta }\rho _{s}\approx 0.65$

and

$k_{\theta }\rho _{s}\approx 1.42$

. Meanwhile, all of the frequencies of these instabilities are positive, which suggests that the collisionless trapped electron mode (CTEM) is the dominant instability. In the process of nonlinear simulations, a higher transport level is locally achieved during the two waves combined heating due to a formation of a steeper electron temperature gradient. In addition, a low-frequency geodesic acoustic mode (GAM) is observed in the nonlinear stage. Effects of the electron beta, the dimensionless ratio of

$T_e/T_i$

and

$R/L_{T_e}$

on the growth rate of instability, are also discussed in the paper.
Age-related differences regarding ageing and care service concerns and information preferences among LGBT, Sistergirl and Brotherboy people in Australia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Brömdal Annette , Stanners Melinda N. , Mullens Amy B. , Beccaria Lisa , Debattista Joseph , Sargent Jennifer , Howard Chris , Matson Ann , Farmer Ged
Published: December 2024

Although many positive social changes have been achieved over the past 30 years, members of LGBT, Sistergirl and Brotherboy communities continue to encounter negative experiences with health and ageing service provision. In this article, 232 responses from a survey exploring ageing and care concerns and preferences among LGBT, Sistergirl and Brotherboy communities in Australia were analysed using chi square analysis. The largest proportion of participants were aged 55–64 years (26.4%, n = 61), with the majority residing in metropolitan regions (67.7%, n = 154). The three most frequently selected gender identities were cisgender woman (40.1%, n = 93), cisgender man (39.7%, n = 92) and non-binary (11.6%, n = 28). The three most frequently selected sexual orientations were gay (39.2%, n = 91), lesbian (32.0%, n = 77) and queer (17.7%, n = 41). While many concerns demonstrated no age-related differences, concerns regarding physical differences, respect and inclusion, finances and standard of care reflected higher levels of concern among younger participants compared with older participants. Preferences for receiving information reflected a desire for LGBT, Sistergirl and Brotherboy communities-specific resources for options for support from participants approaching retirement, that is, aged 55–64 (x2 (5, n = 178) = 11.08, p = 0.050); less desire for information provided through public health service services among participants aged 65+ (x2 (5, n = 178) = 15.58, p = 0.008); and variation in preferences regarding supports provided by LGBT, Sistergirl and Brotherboy communities. Results suggest that different generations of LGBT, Sistergirl and Brotherboy members may prefer to receive services and information in different ways. Further research is needed to understand how concerns, expectations and preferences are influenced across generations.
Diversity and abundance of vultures in relation to seasonality, age, and habitat types in Mole National Park, Ghana
Authors: Bornah Dorcas , Monney Kweku A. , Deikumah Justus P.
Published: December 2024

In sub-Saharan Africa, and particularly within Ghana’s savanna ecosystem, scientific studies on the distribution patterns and habitat use of raptors, including vultures, are scarce. Despite global research on vulture abundance and habitat preferences, data from West Africa remain limited. This study examines the abundance of four vulture species, focusing on their seasonal activity, age distribution, and preference for three specific habitats, i.e. woodlands, riparian forests, and grasslands, in the southern part of Mole National Park (MNP), Ghana. We conducted a survey using 39 line transects during both dry and wet seasons to make an inventory of these species. Employing a generalised linear model, we assessed the influence of seasons, age, and habitat types on vulture abundance. Our survey recorded a total of 466 vultures, with Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus and White-backed Vulture Gyps africanus being the most frequently observed. Vulture numbers were notably higher in riparian and woodland areas than in grasslands, and adults were more prevalent than juveniles across all observed species. The study highlights the need for continuous monitoring and the protection of critical riparian habitats to aid in the conservation of these threatened species within the MNP.
Generation Mechanism of Oxygen Ion Cyclotron Harmonic Waves in the Inner Magnetosphere: Linear Instability Analysis Based on Observations
Authors: Wang Yan , Liu Kaijun , Cheng Kun , Mousavi Ameneh , Yao Fei , Wang Xinye , Wang Ruohan
Published: December 2024

Linear kinetic instability analysis based on in situ observations for one typical oxygen ion cyclotron harmonic (OCH) wave event is performed to investigate the wave excitation mechanism. The observed partial‐shell velocity distribution of energetic O+s is fitted by the superposition of multiple ring‐beam distributions. The calculated linear growth rate shows that the observed OCH waves can be excited by energetic O+s with the partial‐shell velocity distribution, and the maximum growth rate occurs at the third harmonic, coinciding with the frequency associated with the maximum peak of the wave electric field power spectral density measured. In addition, it is found that cool heavy ions have a damping effect on the OCH waves near the corresponding heavy ion cyclotron frequency.
Ultra-rare monogenic disorders frequently detected among sex chromosome aneuploidy patients with atypical findings
Authors: Magee Kiana , McGonigle William , Pressman Rena , Thorson Willa , Barbouth Deborah , Borja Nicholas A.
Published: December 2024

Sex chromosome aneuploidies (SCA) such as Turner, Klinefelter, Jacobs, and Trisomy X syndromes are prevalent genetic disorders with well-established phenotypes. Challenges persist, however, in determining the need for further genetic evaluation in cases of affected individuals exhibiting atypical symptoms. The present study retrospectively examined 54 pediatric patients with an SCA diagnosis at a single institution between January 2015 and December 2023. Twelve patients (22.2%) exhibited a discordant phenotype, of which five were confirmed to have a distinct monogenic disorder, a diagnostic rate of 41.7%. The monogenic conditions identified included DNAH5-related primary ciliary dyskinesia, Burn-McKeown syndrome, Tatton-Brown-Rahman syndrome, SETD1B-related neurodevelopmental disorder, and SET-related disorder. The median age at SCA diagnosis was 3.5 months versus 7.0 years for the second genetic condition, indicating significant diagnostic delays. Our findings highlight the importance of comprehensive genetic evaluation in pediatric patients with SCA who exhibit atypical phenotypes.
Role of ZFHX4 in orofacial clefting based on human genetic data and zebrafish models
Authors: Ishorst Nina , Hölzel Selina , Greve Carola , Yilmaz Öznur , Lindenberg Tobias , Lambertz Jessica , Drichel Dmitriy , Zametica Berina , Mingardo Enrico , Kalanithy Jeshurun C. , Channab Khadija , Kibris Duygu , Henne Sabrina , Degenhardt Franziska , Siewert Anna , Dixon Michael , Kruse Teresa , Ongkosuwito Edwin , Girisha Katta M. , Pande Shruti , Nowak Stefanie , Hagelueken Gregor , Geyer Matthias , Carels Carine , van Rooij Iris A. L. M. , Ludwig Kerstin U. , Odermatt Benjamin , Mangold Elisabeth
Published: December 2024

Orofacial clefting (OFC) is a frequent congenital anomaly and can occur either in the context of underlying syndromes or in isolation (nonsyndromic). The two common OFC phenotypes are cleft lip with/without cleft palate (CL/P) and cleft palate only (CPO). In this study, we searched for penetrant CL/P genes, by evaluating de novo copy number variants (CNV) from an exome sequencing dataset of 50 nonsyndromic patient-parent trios. We detected a heterozygous 86 kb de novo deletion affecting exons 4–11 of ZFHX4, a gene previously associated with OFC. Genetic and phenotypic data from our in-house and the AGORA cohort (710 and 229 individuals with nonsyndromic CL/P) together with literature and database reviews demonstrate that ZFHX4 variants can lead to both nonsyndromic and syndromic forms not only of CL/P but also CPO. Expression analysis in published single-cell RNA-sequencing data (mouse embryo, zebrafish larva) at relevant time-points support an important role of Zfhx4/zfhx4 in craniofacial development. To characterize the role of zfhx4 in zebrafish craniofacial development, we knocked out/down the zebrafish orthologue. Cartilage staining of the zfhx4 CRISPR F0 knockout and morpholino knockdown at 4 days post-fertilization showed an underdeveloped and abnormally shaped ethmoid plate and cartilaginous jaw (resembling micrognathia). While there is evidence for the dominant inheritance of ZFHX4 variants in OFC, we here present a patient with a possible recessive inheritance. In conclusion, ZFHX4 has a highly heterogeneous phenotypic spectrum and variable mode of inheritance. Our data highlight that ZFHX4 should be considered in genetic testing in patients with nonsyndromic clefting.
Titanate–polyurethane–chitosan ternary nanocomposite as an efficient coating for steel against corrosion
Authors: Abdellatif Ahmed S. , Shahien Mohammed , El-Saeed Ashraf M. , Zaki Ayman H.
Published: December 2024

In this study, a titanate–polyurethane–chitosan ternary nanocomposite was prepared by physical mixing. Sodium titanate nanotubes (Na-TNTs) were prepared by the hydrothermal method, and chitosan was extracted from shrimp shell. Na-TNTs were mixed with polyurethane (PU) of different ratios by weight, and chitosan was added after optimization. All of the nanocomposite samples were characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and the mechanical properties were investigated by abrasion, adhesion pull-off, impact resistance, and T-bending tests. The anticorrosion ability was tested by the salt spray method. The obtained results revealed that the binary composite of PU and 1.5% Na-TNTs exhibited remarkable anticorrosion activity among all the binary composites where the disbonded area 5% compared to blank PU 19% and adhesion 5.1 MPa compared to blank 3.5 MPa, while the ternary composite containing 4% chitosan exhibited the best anticorrosion activity where the disbonded area 2% and also exhibit better adhesion 7.9 MPa.
Long-term effects of adding biochar to soils on organic matter content, persistent carbon storage, and moisture content in Karagwe, Tanzania
Authors: Ernest Baraka , Yanda Pius Z. , Hansson Anders , Fridahl Mathias
Published: December 2024

Soils require the application of biochar to improve degradation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the long-term effects of a field experiment on soil organic matter (SOM), soil organic carbon (SOC), and soil moisture content in Karagwe, Tanzania. Seven years ago, a field experiment was conducted using a Latin rectangle design with four replications. The treatments included carbonization and sanitation (CaSa) and carbonization and standard compost (CaSt), which were compared to control Andosols (CoA). A total of 96 soil samples were collected to determine SOM, SOC, and soil moisture content. The data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance. The results showed that soil samples from the CaSa-treated soil had an increase in SOM content of 17.3%, an increase in stored SOC content of 10.0%, and an increase in soil moisture content of 6.3%. Compared with those in CoA, the CaSt-treated soil showed increases in SOM, SOC, and soil moisture of 14.4%, 8.4%, and 4.0%, respectively. Therefore, all treatments improved soil properties, with CaSa proving more effective in enhancing SOM, SOC, and soil moisture content compared to CaSt and CoA. In conclusion, CaSa is recommended for its sustainable ability to enhance Karagwean soil over time.