bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility assessment of catheter-free water vapor thermal therapy for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Nguyen Vi , Winograd Joshua , Codelia-Anjum Alia J. , Zorn Kevin C. , Elterman Dean , Bhojani Naeem , Bechis Seth K. , Chughtai Bilal
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To investigate safety and feasibility of performing water vapor thermal therapy (WVTT; Rezum, Boston Scientific, Marlborough, MA, USA) without postoperative catheterization among men with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Methods

This is a prospective, single arm, unblinded pilot study of 20 consecutive male patients ages 40–80 who underwent WVTT at a single academic institution. All patients underwent 1 injection per lobe at the point of maximal obstruction based on visualization. Primary outcome was evaluation of voiding parameters, symptom scores, and need for catheterization at 3 day, 1, 3, and 6 month follow up compared to baseline visit 30 days prior to surgery.

Results

Mean age was 65 years (range 55–75). Mean prostate volume and PVR were 43 cc (range 30–68) and 89 cc, with 30% (n = 6) having median lobes. Patients received 2–3 treatments based on presence of bilobar versus trilobar hyperplasia. One patient (55 cc prostate, no median lobe) required catheterization for acute urinary retention on postoperative day 2. No patients required antibiotics for urinary tract infection or inpatient readmission within 30 days. Qmax significantly increased from 6 mL/s to 8, 13, 12, and 14 at 3 days, 1, 3, and 6 months (p < 0.05). IPSS decreased from 17 preoperatively to 10, 6, 7, and 8 (p < 0.05). No significant differences were noted in PVR, IIEF, MSHQ-EjD, or SF-12.

Conclusions

In well-selected men, catheter-free WVTT is feasible and improved voiding parameters and symptom scores. No changes in sexual function, infectious complications, or readmission were noted. Only 1 patient (5%) required postoperative catheterization within 30 days.
High-speed two-color scanning volumetric laser-induced fluorescence
Authors: Tapia Silva Diego , Cooper Cole J. , Mandel Tracy L. , Khatri Shilpa , Kleckner Dustin
Published: June 2024

Many problems in fluid mechanics require single-shot 3D measurements of fluid flows, but are limited by available techniques. Here, we design and build a novel flexible high-speed two-color scanning volumetric laser-induced fluorescence (H2C-SVLIF) technique. The technique is readily adaptable to a range of temporal and spatial resolutions, rendering it easily applicable to a wide spectrum of experiments. The core equipment consists of a single monochrome high-speed camera and a pair of ND: YAG lasers pulsing at different wavelengths. The use of a single camera for direct 3D imaging eliminates the need for complex volume reconstruction algorithms and easily allows for the correction of distortion defects. Motivated by the large data loads that result from high-speed imaging techniques, we develop a custom, open-source, software package, which allows for real time playback with correction of perspective defects while simultaneously overlaying arbitrary 3D data. The technique is capable of simultaneous measurement of 3D velocity fields and a secondary tracer in the flow. To showcase the flexibility and adaptability of our technique, we present a set of experiments: (1) the flow past a sphere, and (2) vortices embedded in laminar pipe flow. In the first experiment, two channel measurements are taken at a resolution of 512 × 512 × 512 with volume rates of 65.1 Hz. In the second experiment, a single-color SVLIF system is integrated on a moving stage, providing imaging at 1280 × 304 × 256 with volume rates of 34.8 Hz. Although this second experiment is only single channel, it uses identical software and much of the same hardware to demonstrate the extraction of multiple information channels from single channel volumetric images.
Advances in scalable plasmonic nanostructures: towards phase-engineered interference lithography for complex 2D lattices
Authors: Sarkar Swagato , Aftenieva Olha , König Tobias A.F.
Published: June 2024

Scalable plasmonic nanostructures are reliably created by controlled drying of a colloidal suspension on prefabricated templates. More complex structures such as hexagonal, Lieb, honeycomb, or Kagome lattices are required to develop specific band structures. Laser inference lithography (LIL) combined with template-assisted self-assembly (TASA) offers fabricating nanostructures reliably with high precision over large areas. Less well-known is that more complex 2D lattice geometries are possible with phase-engineered interference lithography (PEIL). Using optical design and electromagnetic simulations, we numerically propose the potential of PEIL towards realizing complex structures of various periodicities. We present the advantages of these structures using dispersion diagrams showing Dirac cones for honeycomb lattices, which are known from the electronic band structure of graphene or an optical band gap for Kagome lattices at an oblique angle. Further, based on our simulated optical characterization of the proposed 2D plasmonic gratings supporting surface lattice resonances (SLR), it is possible to achieve an exceptionally small linewidth of 1 nm for hexagonal and honeycomb gratings. Consequently, we discuss the benefits of refractive index sensors, where we found a ten times higher sensitivity for such complex plasmonic lattices. Overall, we propose and estimate the potential of PEIL for colloidal plasmonics to be realized using the conventional TASA method.

Graphical Abstract

The König research group describes the innovative process of producing complex 2D plasmonic lattices by phase-engineered interference lithography (PEIL). The proposed PEIL approach provides the foundation for implementing future template-assisted self-assembly (TASA) using this method. The optical properties of these gratings, such as narrow line widths and a high figure of merit (FOM), are emphasized, which are crucial to advancing the colloidal plasmonics and nanostructuring field.
Late-age onset systemic sclerosis—clinical and serological characteristics
Authors: Wielosz Ewa , Wiąk-Walerowicz Katarzyna , Łyś Ewa , Lipska Aleksandra , Dryglewska Magdalena , Majdan Maria
Published: June 2024

The clinical course and serological profile of the late-age onset systemic sclerosis (LAO SSc) and the early-age onset SSc (EAO SSc) was compared. The study enrolled 157 patients that fulfilled the American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/European League against Rheumatism (EULAR) classification criteria for systemic sclerosis (SSc). Among them, 69 had diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc) and 88 limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc). Within this population, 39 patients developed the disease over the age of 60 years old (LAO SSc) and 118 prior to that age (EAO SSc). The subtype of SSc, the incidence of internal organ involvement, the prevalence of malignancy, mortality, and serological profile were compared between both groups. The LAO SSc was observed in 39 of total 157 patients with SSc and exhibited a notably higher prevalence of pulmonary arterial hypertension (p = 0.014), heart involvement (p = 0.0014), and renal involvement (p = 0.0002). The occurrence of arthralgias was less common in the LAO SSc group (p = 0.02) than in the EAO SSc group. Furthermore, in the LAO SSc group, the prevalence of anti –RNA polymerase III antibodies (p = 0.008) and antiPM/Scl antibodies (p = 0.048) were significantly lower than in the EAO SSc group. On the other hand, higher anti-Th/To antibody levels (p = 0.014) were recorded in the LAO SSc group. Approximately 25% of SSc patients experienced a delayed onset of the disease after the age of 60 years old. Some clinical and serological features of late-onset SSc were markedly different from that in early-onset disease. Particularly noteworthy is the fact that involvement of internal organs such as heart and kidneys, as well as pulmonary arterial hypertension were much more often observed among patients with LAO SSc which in our suggestion may be referred to age-related co-morbidities.

Key Points• Significant differences in clinical and serological profile of the disease were found between late-age onset (LAO) and early-age onset (EAO) SSc.• Incidence of dcSSc as well as prevalence of anti–RNA polymerase III and anti-PM/Scl antibodies were found to be lower in patients over 60 years old compared to those before 60, but regardless of the age of the disease onset.• Internal organ morbidity, notably pulmonary arterial hypertension, renal impairment and heart disease were significantly more common in elder SSc patients as well as in those with late disease onset.• These findings may suggest an impact of age-related co-morbidities on the course of late-age onset SSc.
Stress and academic achievement among distance university students in Spain during the COVID-19 pandemic: age, perceived study time, and the mediating role of academic self-efficacy
Authors: Cabras Emilia , Pozo Pilar , Suárez-Falcón Juan C. , Caprara Mariagiovanna , Contreras Antonio
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated confinement, imposed a novel personal and social context for university students; nevertheless, few studies have addressed the effects of this on distance university students. Indeed, defining the needs of these students under such unique circumstances will allow them to receive the support necessary to effectively reduce their perceived stress and improve their academic achievement. A predictive model was designed to examine the direct effects of the variables’ age and perceived study time on stress and academic achievement in students in an online learning context, as well as to assess the indirect effects through the mediating role of academic self-efficacy. Using path analysis, the model was tested on a sample of 1030 undergraduate students between 18 and 60 years old enrolled on a psychology degree course at the UNED (National Distance Learning University of Spain). The model provides a good fit to the data, confirming the mediating role of academic self-efficacy. Perceived study time is a factor negatively associated with stress and positively with academic achievement. However, it appeared that age was not related to academic achievement, indicating that academic self-efficacy had no mediating effect on these two variables. Academic self-efficacy is a mediator and protective factor in challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. These results may contribute to the design of educational and clinical interventions for students at an online learning university over an extended age range.
Quo vadis Scots pine forestry in northern Germany: How do silvicultural management and climate change determine an uncertain future?
Authors: Knocke Hergen Christian , Axer Maximilian , Hamkens Hans Friedrich , Fischer Christoph , Hansen Jan Hendrik , Nagel Ralf-Volker , Albert Matthias
Published: June 2024

Scots pine is of greatest importance in northern Germany regarding its cultivation area and expected capability to perform in climate change. However, pine predominantly occurs in monocultures. Therefore, future pine forestry depends on an adaptation to climate change while improving ecological and economic forest functions. Yet future development of pine remains uncertain due to leeway in silvicultural guidelines and future climate. This study questions: (i) what is the range of future pine shares under climate change and different silvicultural management in northern Germany, (ii) how will the current stands develop and (iii) what is the range of uncertainty arising from climate models and silvicultural options? To answer these issues we (i) selected forest development types site- and climate-sensitively to either minimize or to maximize pine shares, (ii) simulated four, now practiced forest management scenarios for 50 years based on the German National Forest Inventory and (iii) analyzed the differences, to be interpreted as uncertainty. Novel to our approach is the site- and climate-sensitive selection of forest development types on large scales which emphasizes the contrasts of the different management guidelines. The results show that growing stock and cultivation area will decrease even if pine is promoted in forestry. The predicted restoration rate ranges from 50 to 72% depending on scenario and previous thinning regime. In conclusion, under the given management concepts and considering today’s high proportion of old pine, restoration is alarmingly slow. Amid the rapidly changing climate, we recommend to further adjust the management guidelines to accelerate forest restoration.
The application of evolutionary computation in generative adversarial networks (GANs): a systematic literature survey
Authors: Wang Yong , Zhang Qian , Wang Gai-Ge , Cheng Honglei
Published: June 2024

As a subfield of deep learning (DL), generative adversarial networks (GANs) have produced impressive generative results by applying deep generative models to create synthetic data and by performing an adversarial training process. Nevertheless, numerous issues related to the instability of training need to be urgently addressed. Evolutionary computation (EC), using the corresponding paradigm of biological evolution, overcomes these problems and improves evolutionary-based GANs’ ability to deal with real-world applications. Therefore, this paper presents a systematic literature survey combining EC and GANs. First, the basic theories of GANs and EC are analyzed and summarized. Second, to provide readers with a comprehensive view, this paper outlines the recent advances in combining EC and GANs after detailed classification and introduces each of them. These classifications include evolutionary GANs and their variants, GANs with evolutionary strategies and differential evolution, GANs combined with neuroevolution, evolutionary GANs related to different optimization problems, and applications of evolutionary GANs. Detailed information on the evaluation metrics, network structures, and comparisons of these models is presented in several tables. Finally, future directions and possible perspectives for further development are discussed.
Pathos in Natural Language Argumentation: Emotional Appeals and Reactions
Authors: Konat Barbara , Gajewska Ewelina , Rossa Wiktoria
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we present a model of pathos, delineate its operationalisation, and demonstrate its utility through an analysis of natural language argumentation. We understand pathos as an interactional persuasive process in which speakers are performing pathos appeals and the audience experiences emotional reactions. We analyse two strategies of such appeals in pre-election debates: pathotic Argument Schemes based on the taxonomy proposed by Walton et al. (Argumentation schemes, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 2008), and emotion-eliciting language based on psychological lexicons of emotive words (Wierzba in Behav Res Methods 54:2146–2161, 2021). In order to match the appeals with possible reactions, we collect real-time social media reactions to the debates and apply sentiment analysis (Alswaidan and Menai in Knowl Inf Syst 62:2937–2987, 2020) method to observe emotion expressed in language. The results point to the importance of pathos analysis in modern discourse: speakers in political debates refer to emotions in most of their arguments, and the audience in social media reacts to those appeals using emotion-expressing language. Our results show that pathos is a common strategy in natural language argumentation which can be analysed with the support of computational methods.
Stemflow dissolved organic matter in mixed temperate forests: temporal and interspecific variation of optical indices and development of a stemflow-specific PARAFAC model
Authors: O’Halloran Robyn C. , Guerard Jennifer J. , Levia Delphis F.
Published: June 2024

Stemflow is a conduit for the transport of canopy-derived dissolved organic matter (DOM) to the forest floor. This study examined the character of stemflow DOM for four tree species over four phenophases (leafless, emergence, leafed, and senescence for deciduous species and leafed-winter, emergence, leafed- spring/summer, and senescence for coniferous species) occurring in temperate forests; namely, Betula lenta L. (sweet birch), Fagus grandifolia Ehrh. (American beech), Liriodendron tulipifera L. (yellow poplar), and Pinus rigida Mill. (pitch pine). American beech exhibited the lowest average specific UV absorbance at 254 nm (SUVA254) values, while yellow poplar displayed the highest values. SUVA254 values were largest in senescence and smallest in emergence. The spectral slope ratio was lower for pitch pine than the deciduous tree species. Humification index (HIX) values decreased across all species during the emergence phenophase. The developed and validated stemflow-specific four-component parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) model demonstrated the combined influence of interspecific and temporal fluctuations on the composition of humic and protein-like substances within stemflow. By separating and examining stemflow DOM independent of throughfall, our study provides fresh insights into the spatiotemporal dynamics of stemflow inputs to near-trunk soils that may inform hot spots and hot moments theories.
A critical review of plant sentience: moving beyond traditional approaches
Authors: Hansen Mads Jørgensen
Published: June 2024

Are plants sentient? Several researchers argue that plants might be sentient. They do so on the grounds that plants exhibit cognitive behaviour similar to that of sentient organisms and that they possess a vascular system which is functionally equivalent to the animal nervous system. This paper will not attempt to settle the issue of plant sentience. Instead, the paper has two goals. First, it provides a diagnosis of the current state of the debate on plant sentience. It is argued that the current state of the debate on plant sentience cannot yield any progress because the behavioural and physiological similarities pointed to as a way of inferring consciousness are not, in themselves, indicative of consciousness. Second, the paper proposes we adopt the theory-light approach proposed by Birch (Noûs 56(1):133–153, 2022. https://doi.org/10.1111/nous.12351) whereby we start to test for clusters of cognitive abilities facilitated by consciousness in plants. Currently, there are no such tests and therefore no evidence for plant sentience.  The paper proposes that the task for future research on plants be in line with the tests outlined in the theory-light approach.
Fleeting Alliances and Frugal Collaboration in Piecework: A Video-Analysis of Food Delivery Work in India
Authors: Shaikh Riyaj , McGregor Moira , Brown Barry , Lampinen Airi
Published: June 2024

Food delivery platforms are designed to match on-demand workers with jobs and then manage, monitor, and assess their performance. These platforms provide workers with a digital representation of delivery work. Once a worker accepts a delivery job they need to deal with the complexities of an unsettled urban landscape with varied infrastructures, traffic, and regulations. In particular, the Global South presents a demanding context for this type of work, given less clearly mapped addresses alongside other socio-cultural intricacies. In order to understand how food delivery workers bridge gaps and mismatches between the demands of the app and the realities encountered in situ, for this paper we shadowed six delivery workers over the course of their working day delivering food in Pune, India. The six workers included a complete novice and more experienced riders. We used helmet mounted cameras to record the delivery work, and how our participants managed the extra demands of food delivery work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our moment-by-moment analysis of the video data is informed by the methodological traditions of ethnomethodology and conversation analysis. While the food delivery platform imposes a detailed workflow expected to be performed alone by the worker, our detailed video analysis reveals the collaborative nature of delivery work. We highlight how workers draw upon their ability to participate in ‘fleeting alliances’ and produce ‘frugal collaboration’ with co-located others, such as other delivery workers or security guards. This allows them to resolve everyday troubles, often learning or imparting ‘the tricks of the trade’ in the process. While gig platforms have commonly been presented as disruptive technologies for coordinating, regulating, and assessing gig workers individually and independently, our findings highlight collaboration as a critically important aspect of food delivery work.
A water–energy–food nexus analysis of the impact of desalination and irrigated agriculture expansion in the Ain Temouchent region, Algeria
Authors: Mostefaoui Leila , Sušnik Janez , Masia Sara , Jewitt Graham
Published: June 2024

The need for an integrated approach to sustainable resources management to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals has become widely recognized. Population growth, climate change, environmental degradation, and scarcity of resources have been identified as the major factors affecting society’s future. Given the fundamental societal needs for food, energy, and water, the Water–Energy–Food (WEF) nexus has emerged as a useful sustainable resource management framework and has been widely applied. However, in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, there have been relatively few studies that adopt a nexus approach. In this study, the Ain Temouchent region in Algeria is used as a WEF Nexus case study. The region has a strong agricultural-based economy and the increased intensity of agricultural production in the region has resulted in the overuse of groundwater resources. Establishing a reverse osmosis desalination plant with a daily production capacity of 200,000 m3 significantly alleviated the resulting water crisis, yet its energy consumption and environmental impact raise several questions. This study identifies the critical links between the WEF sectors and using this understanding, the dynamics between them are assessed using System Dynamics Modelling. The study reveals that any further increase in agricultural production in Ain Temouchent may lead to excessive use of groundwater resources. Although desalination can help alleviate the water crisis, its high energy consumption raises concerns. The analysis shows that the use of surface water and recycled wastewater for irrigation could be possible alternatives. The study emphasizes the value of adopting a WEF nexus approach to achieve a balance between agricultural development, energy sustainability, and water resource management in the Ain Temouchent region.
Benign tumors and non-melanoma skin cancers in patients with Fanconi anemia
Authors: Enache Aura , Sajjad Bia , Altintas Burak , Giri Neelam , McReynolds Lisa J. , Cowen Edward W.
Published: June 2024

Fanconi anemia (FA) is an inherited bone marrow failure syndrome (IBMFS) characterized by pathogenic variants in the FA/BRCA DNA repair pathway genes. Individuals with FA have an elevated risk of developing myelodysplastic syndrome, acute myeloid leukemia, and solid tumors. Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is the most effective treatment for FA related bone marrow failure but can increase the risk of cancer development. Information on benign tumors and NMSC is lacking in patients with FA. Our objective was to characterize patients with FA enrolled in the National Cancer Institute IBMFS Study who have experienced non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC) and/or benign tumors (BT). A total of 200 patients diagnosed with FA were enrolled in the Institutional Review Board approved study “Etiologic Investigation of Cancer Susceptibility in IBMFS: A Natural History Study” (NCT00027274). Through medical records review, we identified 30 patients with at least one NMSC, either squamous or basal cell carcinoma, or benign tumor. The remaining 170 patients comprised the control group. Out of 200 patients, 12 had NMSC, 25 had benign tumors, with an age range of 11–64 and 0–56 years, respectively. The median age at HCT was 30.5 years for NMSC patients, 9 years for benign tumor patients, and 9.1 years for controls. The most common genotype observed was FANCA, followed by FANCC and FANCI. Benign tumors spanned diverse anatomical locations. Early onset NMSC in patients with FA compared to the general population emphasizes the need for consistent monitoring in patients with FA, while the diverse anatomical locations of benign tumors underscore the importance of comprehensive surveillance for timely interventions in managing symptomatology and heightened cancer risk.
The Mediating and Moderating Role of Sensation-Seeking in the Association between Resting Heart Rate and Antisocial Behavior
Authors: Oskarsson Sofi , Raine Adrian , Baker Laura
Published: June 2024

The association between lower resting heart rate and antisocial behavior has been suggested to be mediated by sensation-seeking. However, other theoretical models suggest that sensation-seeking has a moderating influence. This study sought to investigate the interplay between resting heart rate, sensation-seeking and antisocial behavior. Two subsets of participants from the Risk Factors for Antisocial Behavior (RFAB) project (n = 690, n = 391) were used. We conducted mediation analyses and logistic regression analyses to test for mediating and moderating effects of sensation-seeking on the association between resting heart rate and antisocial behavior by young adulthood. In general, sensation-seeking partially mediated the association between resting heart rate in childhood as well as adolescence and antisocial behavior by young adulthood. Resting heart rate in childhood and adolescence also interacted with sensation-seeking to predict antisocial behavior by young adulthood, such that a lower resting heart rate increased the odds of antisocial behavior among individuals with higher but not lower levels of sensation-seeking. Our results on a theoretical level suggest that sensation-seeking is important to understand the association between resting heart rate and antisocial behavior. Results further suggest that encouraging prosocial behaviors as a means of fulfilling the need for stimulation in individuals with a psychophysiological risk profile could serve as an effective approach in redirecting their behaviors towards positive outcomes.
Thermogravimetry as a tool to evaluate the contribution of different fabric constituents to fibre release
Authors: Pereira Mercedes , López-Beceiro Jorge , Díaz-Díaz Ana-María , Álvarez-García A. , Vázquez Laura S. , Artiaga Ramón
Published: June 2024

This study introduces a methodology to easily estimate the composition of textile fibre mixtures, whether they are arranged in fabrics or fibre bundles, in order to assist the examination of fibre release from textiles, simplifying the process of analysis. The proposed method consists of the deconvolution of DTG signals, and the identification of the constituent associated with each peak. To assess the effectiveness of this method, the study analyses raw textile fibres, both individually and blended in different systems to characterize the thermal degradation of each one and their interaction when mixed. Such analysis of raw fibres is applied to commercial fabrics with known compositions and their released fibres in pilling experiments. The studied fibres are polyester (PET), cotton, wool and acrylic, while the blends encompass the systems PET + cotton, PET + wool, PET + cotton + acrylic. Hence, the method is evaluated. It can be applied to fast identification of textile compositions and can further aid in the identification of fibres in pilling tests.
Investigating the Pregnancy and Post-Partum Health Experiences of Women Living with HIV
Authors: Cooper Rebecca , Greig Julia , Piercy Hilary , Collini Paul
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Pregnancy and the postpartum period is a difficult time for women living with HIV (WLWH) and postpartum engagement with HIV care is often reduced, with implications for health and well-being. We aimed to explore the postpartum health experiences of WLWH in relation to engagement in HIV care.

Methods

The NESTOR (iNvESTigating the pregnancy and pOst-paRtum health experience of women living with HIV) study was a UK based qualitative semi-structured interview study. 61 eligible women were identified. We used a purposive sampling technique to recruit women with differing levels of engagement in HIV care. Interviews were conducted via telephone or video call. Interviews were audio recorded and fully transcribed. We used a thematic approach for data analysis, and two researchers independently coded the data and established the key themes.

Results

11 of 61 (18%) eligible women participated in the interviews, and the three main themes were ‘infant feeding decisions’, ‘managing the risk of mother to child transmission’, and ‘managing the knowledge of their HIV status’. These themes offer detailed insights into the significant psychological and emotional challenges these women had experienced, and the practical support from healthcare professionals in both HIV and maternity services that had enabled them to navigate those challenges.

Discussion

There have been life-changing developments in the treatment and care for people living with HIV. However, even in the U = U (undetectable = untransmittable) era, traditional concerns about breastfeeding, risk of transmission to the infant and stigma continue to shape the postpartum experience of WLWH. As these impact on their emotional and psychological wellbeing, support in these areas needs to be prioritised.
Light harvesting in purple bacteria does not rely on resonance fine-tuning in peripheral antenna complexes
Authors: Keil Erika , Lokstein Heiko , Cogdell Richard , Hauer Jürgen , Zigmantas Donatas , Thyrhaug Erling
Published: June 2024

The ring-like peripheral light-harvesting complex 2 (LH2) expressed by many phototrophic purple bacteria is a popular model system in biological light-harvesting research due to its robustness, small size, and known crystal structure. Furthermore, the availability of structural variants with distinct electronic structures and optical properties has made this group of light harvesters an attractive testing ground for studies of structure–function relationships in biological systems. LH2 is one of several pigment-protein complexes for which a link between functionality and effects such as excitonic coherence and vibronic coupling has been proposed. While a direct connection has not yet been demonstrated, many such interactions are highly sensitive to resonance conditions, and a dependence of intra-complex dynamics on detailed electronic structure might be expected. To gauge the sensitivity of energy-level structure and relaxation dynamics to naturally occurring structural changes, we compare the photo-induced dynamics in two structurally distinct LH2 variants. Using polarization-controlled 2D electronic spectroscopy at cryogenic temperatures, we directly access information on dynamic and static disorder in the complexes. The simultaneous optimal spectral and temporal resolution of these experiments further allows us to characterize the ultrafast energy relaxation, including exciton transport within the complexes. Despite the variations in PPC molecular structure manifesting as clear differences in electronic structure and disorder, the energy-transport and—relaxation dynamics remain remarkably similar. This indicates that the light-harvesting functionality of purple bacteria within a single LH2 complex is highly robust to structural perturbations and likely does not rely on finely tuned electronic- or electron-vibrational resonance conditions.
Spectral moments of the real Ginibre ensemble
Authors: Byun Sung-Soo , Forrester Peter J.
Published: June 2024

The moments of the real eigenvalues of real Ginibre matrices are investigated from the viewpoint of explicit formulas, differential and difference equations, and large N expansions. These topics are inter-related. For example, a third-order differential equation can be derived for the density of the real eigenvalues, and this can be used to deduce a second-order difference equation for the general complex moments $$M_{2p}^\textrm{r}$$

M

2
p

r

. The latter are expressed in terms of the $${}_3 F_2$$

3

F
2

hypergeometric functions, with a simplification to the $${}_2 F_1$$

2

F
1

hypergeometric function possible for $$p=0$$

p
=
0

and $$p=1$$

p
=
1

, allowing for the large N expansion of these moments to be obtained. The large N expansion involves both integer and half-integer powers of 1/N. The three-term recurrence then provides the large N expansion of the full sequence $$\{ M_{2p}^\textrm{r} \}_{p=0}^\infty $$

{

M

2
p

r

}

p
=
0

∞

. Fourth- and third-order linear differential equations are obtained for the moment generating function and for the Stieltjes transform of the real density, respectively, and the properties of the large N expansion of these quantities are determined.
Optimizing SUV Analysis: A Multicenter Study on Preclinical FDG-PET/CT Highlights the Impact of Standardization
Authors: Kuntner Claudia , Alcaide Carlos , Anestis Dimitris , Bankstahl Jens P. , Boutin Herve , Brasse David , Elvas Filipe , Forster Duncan , Rouchota Maritina G. , Tavares Adriana , Teuter Mari , Wanek Thomas , Zachhuber Lena , Mannheim Julia G.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Preclinical imaging, with translational potential, lacks a standardized method for defining volumes of interest (VOIs), impacting data reproducibility. The aim of this study was to determine the interobserver variability of VOI sizes and standard uptake values (SUVmean and SUVmax) of different organs using the same [18F]FDG-PET and PET/CT datasets analyzed by multiple observers. In addition, the effect of a standardized analysis approach was evaluated.

Procedures

In total, 12 observers (4 beginners and 8 experts) analyzed identical preclinical [18F]FDG-PET-only and PET/CT datasets according to their local default image analysis protocols for multiple organs. Furthermore, a standardized protocol was defined, including detailed information on the respective VOI size and position for multiple organs, and all observers reanalyzed the PET/CT datasets following this protocol.

Results

Without standardization, significant differences in the SUVmean and SUVmax were found among the observers. Coregistering CT images with PET images improved the comparability to a limited extent. The introduction of a standardized protocol that details the VOI size and position for multiple organs reduced interobserver variability and enhanced comparability.

Conclusions

The protocol offered clear guidelines and was particularly beneficial for beginners, resulting in improved comparability of SUVmean and SUVmax values for various organs. The study suggested that incorporating an additional VOI template could further enhance the comparability of the findings in preclinical imaging analyses.
Analyzing the interaction between maintenance dredging and seagoing vessels: a case study in the Port of Rotterdam
Authors: Sepehri Arash , Kirichek Alex , van der Werff Solange , Baart Fedor , van den Heuvel Marcel , van Koningsveld Mark
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Maintenance dredging can often hinder port operations resulting in waiting times for seagoing vessels. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the dynamics between maintenance dredging activities and seagoing vessels, specifically focusing on how waiting times can be reduced. Then, the role of selecting different maintenance dredging strategies in reducing these waiting times is outlined.

Methods

The study analyzes historical automatic identification system (AIS) data to identify the interaction between maintenance dredging and seagoing vessels and quantify the hindrance periods for the Mississippihaven case study in the Port of Rotterdam, the Netherlands. The trajectories of the vessels are analyzed in a simple case to show how the vessels interact and how the waiting times are quantified. The interactions are checked with the Port of Rotterdam for different port calls to ensure that maintenance dredging was the reason for these delays.

Results

By analyzing the AIS data analysis of vessels in a given time window, the dredgers for maintenance work can be identified and their activities within or near the terminal can be determined. In addition, the waiting time of the seagoing vessel caused by the maintenance dredging is quantified at the terminal entrance.

Conclusion

The study discusses how the maintenance dredging operations could be improved by adjusting the loading and sailing phases of maintenance dredging and provides some theoretical and managerial insights. Alternative port maintenance strategies to minimize the waiting time caused by the hindrance are also discussed.
Rapid screening and sensing of stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) inhibitors from ginger and their efficacy in ameliorating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Zeng Xin , Wang Shang , Peng Ze , Wang Meng , Zhao Kui , Xu Ben Bin , Yin Xiongwei , Ibrahim Mohamed M. , Mersal Gaber A. M. , El-Bahy Zeinhom M. , Guo Zhanhu , Xiang Wei , Wang Jianwei
Published: June 2024

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a prevalent chronic metabolic condition, for which no approved medications are available. As a condiment and traditional Chinese medicine, ginger can be useful in reducing the symptoms of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Although its active ingredients and mechanisms of action are unknown, there is a lack of research on them. The purpose of this study is to prepare magnetite (Fe3O4)@Stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) materials and analyze them using ultra-high performance liquid-chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS) for rapid screening of potential inhibitors of SCD1 in ginger. Based on this analysis, it has been shown that the primary components in ginger that bind SCD1 directly are gingerols, with 10-gingerol having a greater affinity for binding to SCD1 than 8-gingerol and 6-gingerol. Moreover, further studies indicated that free fatty acids (FFA)-induced lipid accumulation is improved by this class of compounds in normal human hepatocytes (THLE-3), with 10-gingerol being the most effective compound. This study provides a new insight into the mechanism, by which ginger contributes to the improvement of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and provide support for the effective use of 10-gingerol for the treatment of NAFLD.
Vision-based survey method for extraordinary loads on buildings
Authors: Li Yang , Chen Jun , Wang Pengcheng
Published: June 2024

The statistical modeling of extraordinary loads on buildings has been stagnant for decades due to the laborious and error-prone nature of existing survey methods, such as questionnaires and verbal inquiries. This study proposes a new vision-based survey method for collecting extraordinary load data by automatically analyzing surveillance videos. For this purpose, a crowd head tracking framework is developed that integrates crowd head detection and reidentification models based on convolutional neural networks to obtain head trajectories of the crowd in the survey area. The crowd head trajectories are then analyzed to extract crowd quantity and velocities, which are the essential factors for extraordinary loads. For survey areas with frequent crowd movements during temporary events, the equivalent dynamic load factor can be further estimated using crowd velocity to consider dynamic effects. A crowd quantity investigation experiment and a crowd walking experiment are conducted to validate the proposed survey method. The experimental results prove that the proposed survey method is effective and accurate in collecting load data and reasonable in considering dynamic effects during extraordinary events. The proposed survey method is easy to deploy and has the potential to collect substantial and reliable extraordinary load data for determining design load on buildings.
Applications of 3D Printing Technology in Diagnosis and Management of Heart Failure
Authors: Goswami Debkalpa , Kazim Madihah , Nguyen Christopher T.
Published: June 2024

Purpose of Review

3D printing (3DP) technology has emerged as a valuable tool for surgeons and cardiovascular interventionalists in developing and tailoring patient-specific treatment strategies, especially in complex and rare cases. This short review covers advances, primarily in the last three years, in the use of 3DP in the diagnosis and management of heart failure and related cardiovascular conditions.

Recent Findings

Latest studies include utilization of 3DP in ventricular assist device placement, congenital heart disease identification and treatment, pre-operative planning and management in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, clinician as well as patient education, and benchtop mock circulatory loops.

Studies reported benefits for patients including significantly reduced operation time, potential for lower radiation exposure, shorter mechanical ventilation times, lower intraoperative blood loss, and less total hospitalization time, as a result of the use of 3DP. As 3DP technology continues to evolve, clinicians, basic science researchers, engineers, and regulatory authorities must collaborate closely to optimize the utilization of 3D printing technology in the diagnosis and management of heart failure.
Breaking the operator variability in Kibler’s scapular dyskinesis assessment
Authors: D’Antonio L. , Fiumana G. , Reina M. , Lodi E. , Porcellini G.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Alterations of scapular kinematics are generically reported as scapular dyskinesis (SD), and are a nonspecific response to various shoulder pathologies. The most widely used classification is Kibler’s (K), which is, however, characterized by poor sensitivity. To overcome this limit, using a 3D motion analysis system, we identified a specific pattern for each type of SD according to Kibler.

Materials and methods

We analyzed 34 patients with a total of 68 shoulders who came to our observation for shoulder pain. All patients underwent clinical examination, video-recording and motion analysis with SHoW Motion 3D kinematic tracking system (SM). Three independent observers classified SD into K types I, II and III. Only patients with concordant classification among the 3 operators were studied to identify a characteristic graphic pattern by type of SD.

Results

Typical patterns emerged from the examination with SM. K. type 1 consists of decreased or reversed posterior tilt and increased protraction in flexion–extension (FE) in early degrees of motion. K. type 2 consists of increased protraction and marked reversal of lateral rotation in abduction–adduction (Ab–Ad) in early degrees of movement. K. type 3 has been subdivided into two subgroups: K. type 3-A, composed of patients with massive rotator cuff lesions, shows an increase in all scapular movements in both FE and Ab–Ad. K. type 3-B, composed of patients with scapular stiffness and/or impingement, presents a slight increase in posterior tilt and lateral rotation in the final grades of FE and Ab–Ad.

Conclusions

The SM system allows reproducible dynamic analyses with low intra- and intra- operator variability. In our study, we demonstrated its applicability in the classification of SD. It also provides an objective and quantitative assessment of motor pattern alteration that is essential in the follow-up of patients to evaluate the effectiveness of rehabilitation and/or surgical treatment.

Level of Evidence 3

According to "The Oxford 2011 Levels of Evidence".
Between cities and villages: the livestock economy in historical Palestine
Authors: Namdar Linoy , Gadot Yuval , Sapir-Hen Lidar
Published: June 2024

This study aims at establishing a historically based model of animal husbandry in urban and rural settlements, in the Southern Levant. This type of model is required in the field of zooarchaeology, to better analyze and study ancient faunal remains. It also applies a non-traditional method to study and differentiate between urban and rural economies. For this aim, we used British Mandate tax files and village statistics. These are the best available historical documents for this period, that recorded herds management statistics in all settlements of Palestine. We selected only settlements inhabited by the indigenous population and divided the data into four environmental regions. We analyzed the livestock abundance and herd demography in each region. Each urban center was considered independently, while the rural villages were classified into three groups, based on the most common livestock (cattle, sheep, or goats). Results show economic variations between urban and rural settlements as well as regional trends, such as in pastoralism and agricultural management. In addition, meat industries were common in most urban centers, being the primary difference from rural economies. We applied this model to two large zooarchaeological case studies, dating from the Early Islamic to the Ottoman period; Mount Zion, located in the urban city of Jerusalem, and Tel Beth Shemesh (East), whose size and nature were not historically recorded. We found that the economic variations reflected in the model were also present in the faunal assemblages.
Agent-based modelling of individual absorptive capacity for effective knowledge transfer
Authors: Dolmark Thomas , Sohaib Osama , Beydoun Ghassan , Taghikhah Firouzeh
Published: June 2024

The importance of knowledge for organizational success is widely recognized, leading managers to leverage knowledge actively. Within knowledge transfer, the Absorptive Capacity (ACAP) of Knowledge Recipients (KR) emerges as an unresolved barrier. ACAP is the dynamic capability to absorb knowledge and surpass the aggregation of individual ACAP within an organization. However, more research is needed on individual-level ACAP and its implications for bridging the gap between individual and organizational knowledge transfer. To address this gap, this study employs Agent-Based Modeling (ABM) as a simulation method to replicate individual ACAP within an organization, facilitating the examination of knowledge transfer dynamics. ABM allows for the detailed analysis of interactions between individual KRs and the organizational environment, revealing how uninterrupted time and other factors influence knowledge absorption. The implications of the study are that ABM provides specific insights into how individual ACAP affects organizational learning and performance, emphasizing the importance of uninterrupted time for KR to achieve optimal knowledge exploitation and highlighting the need for organizational practices and policies that foster environments conducive to knowledge absorption.
A review of microcystin and nodularin toxins derived from freshwater cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms and their impact on human health
Authors: Melaram Rajesh , Newton Amanda Rose , Lee Anna , Herber Scott , El-Khouri Anthony , Chafin Jennifer
Published: June 2024

The impacts of climate change on cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (cHABs) are paramount, promoting the widespread distribution, intensity, and toxicity of these phenomena in major freshwater bodies across the globe. Microcystins (MCs) and nodularins (NODs) are monocyclic peptides that produce hepatotoxic effects in living organisms. Despite efforts in understanding their molecular toxicological mechanisms, we do not fully have a grasp on the human health impacts associated with these toxins derived from freshwater cHABs. We seek to provide a current update on the toxicity and epidemiology of MCs and NODs, integrating key evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and epidemiological studies. The primary objective of this work is to understand the human health impacts of MC and NOD-producing cHABs.