bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A VLT/VIMOS view of two Planck multiple-cluster systems: Structure and galaxy properties
Authors: Wicker R. , Aghanim N. , Bonjean V. , Lecoq E. , Douspis M. , Burgarella D. , Pointecouteau E.
Published: June 2023

We analysed spectroscopic data obtained with VLT/VIMOS for two multiple-cluster systems, PLCKG214.6+36.9 and PLCKG334.8−38.0, discovered by Planck via their thermal Sunyaev-Zel’dovich signal. Combining the optical spectroscopy for the redshift determination and photometric data from galaxy surveys (SDSS, WISE and DESI), we were able to study the structure of the two multiple-cluster systems to determine their nature and the properties of their member galaxies. We found that the two systems are mainly populated by passive galaxies and that PLCKG214.6 + 36.9 consists of a pair of clusters at redshift z = 0.445 and an isolated cluster in the background at z = 0.498, whereas the system PLCKG334.8 − 38.0 is a chance association of three independent clusters at redshifts of z = 0.367, z = 0.292, and z = 0.33. We also find evidence of remaining star formation activity in the highest redshift cluster of PLCKG214.6 + 36.9, at z = 0.498.
A multi-band AGN-SFG classifier for extragalactic radio surveys using machine learning
Authors: Karsten J. , Wang L. , Margalef-Bentabol B. , Best P. N. , Kondapally R. , La Marca A. , Morganti R. , Röttgering H. J. A. , Vaccari M. , Sabater J.
Published: June 2023

Context.Extragalactic radio continuum surveys play an increasingly more important role in galaxy evolution and cosmology studies. While radio galaxies and radio quasars dominate at the bright end, star-forming galaxies (SFGs) and radio-quiet active galactic nuclei (AGNs) are more common at fainter flux densities.

Aims.Our aim is to develop a machine-learning classifier that can efficiently and reliably separate AGNs and SFGs in radio continuum surveys.

Methods.We performed a supervised classification of SFGs versus AGNs using the light gradient boosting machine (LGBM) on three LOFAR Deep Fields (Lockman Hole, Boötes, and ELAIS-N1), which benefit from a wide range of high-quality multi-wavelength data and classification labels derived from extensive spectral energy distribution (SED) analyses.

Results.Our trained model has a precision of 0.92±0.01 and a recall of 0.87±0.02 for SFGs. For AGNs, the model performs slightly worse, with a precision of 0.87±0.02 and a recall of 0.78±0.02. These results demonstrate that our trained model can successfully reproduce the classification labels derived from a detailed SED analysis. The model performance decreases towards higher redshifts, which is mainly due to smaller training sample sizes. To make the classifier more adaptable to other radio galaxy surveys, we also investigate how our classifier performs with a poorer multi-wavelength sampling of the SED. In particular, we find that the far-infrared and radio bands are of great importance. We also find that a higher signal-to-noise ratio in some photometric bands leads to a significant boost in the model performance. In addition to using the 150 MHz radio data, our model can also be used with 1.4 GHz radio data. Converting 1.4 GHz to 150 MHz radio data reduces the performance by ~4% in precision and ~3% in recall.
An experimental investigation of the stochastic nature of slug flow
Authors: García César , Korelstein Leonid , Sondermann Carina N. , Pereyra Eduardo
Published: June 2023

Slug flow is widely encountered in oil and gas systems. It has an unsteady hydrodynamic behavior that motivated the development of mechanistic models to better understand and quantify the parameters of the flow. The present work investigated several slug flow conditions through an experimental campaign that was performed in a 2-in ID horizontal pipe facility. The experimental data were statistically analyzed and they indicated the suitability of a lognormal distribution to model the flow characteristics, such as slug length, film length, and frequency. Based on the mean results, slug and film lengths tend to increase as more gas is present in the flow. The mean frequency indicated that higher frequencies are obtained with lower gas fractions. All the slugs from each test were individually studied using different approaches to analyze the data. The results suggest the existence of a relationship between the slug and film lengths when the slug unit is identified starting from a film region followed by a slug region. The values of the coefficient of determination for the relation between slug length and film length indicate a possible influence of other flow parameters of stochastic nature, such as slug liquid holdup, that could affect the behavior of the slugs.
Analysis of approximations of the gas compressibility factor derived from genetic algorithms
Authors: Kochueva Olga , Zadorozhnyy Vladislav
Published: June 2023

Hydraulic calculations are the primary tool for rational technical decisions related to the design and operation of pipeline systems. The compressibility factor is introduced into the gas equation of state to account for its real properties and depends on the pressure, temperature, and gas component composition. At present, the search for an accurate and computationally efficient approximation for the compressibility factor remains an urgent problem. This paper presents a methodology for constructing an approximation based on symbolic regression, and the proposed dependencies analysis provided. The average relative error of the presented models is 0.03%.
Probabilistic modeling of functioning of district-distributed heating systems for the reliability analysis
Authors: Postnikov Ivan
Published: June 2023

The study is devoted to modeling a random process of functioning of district-distributed heating systems, aimed at determining the probabilities of states corresponding to failures of their components. The probabilities of emergency states, along with the physical assessment of the consequences of failures, are used to reliability analysis and synthesis for studied systems. The basic stochastic model of the system functioning corresponds to a markov random stationary process under the conditions of the simplest events flow. Modifications of random process models are proposed, accounting the non-ordinarity events (simultaneous failures of components) and the dependence between some events (mainly, failures), if the corresponding technological possibility is established. A number of computational experiments is provided to assess the degree of influence of considered factors on the results of probabilistic modeling of studied systems.
Optimizing the Structure and Parameters of Local Wastewater Disposal System Based on Flow Models
Authors: Chupin Victor , Moroz Maria , Chupin Roman , Bober Victor , Yoshe Agegnehu K.
Published: June 2023

The paper investigates the issues of transporting wastewater from small settlements to centralized sewage treatment facilities, taking into account the use of various modes of transport. For each mode of transport we determined the dependences of life cycle costs on the amount of wastewater flow and its transportation over different distances. Taking into account these dependences we obtained the ranges for the use of road and pipeline transport and developed methods for optimizing the structure and parameters of local wastewater disposal systems.
Dissolution behaviour of lime in converter slag: evolution of morphology and ions migration
Authors: Tong Shuai , Li Chenxiao , Wang Shuhuan , Ai Liqun
Published: June 2023

The dissolution behaviour of lime in converter slag at 1300–1500 °C was studied, and the evolution of morphology and component ions migration under different dissolution time were examined. The results showed that with the increase of dissolution time, the lime surface changed from irregular to regular, and micropores and cracks were formed. The lime melting is a diffusion phenomenon, the slag promoted lime dissolution through these cracks and micropores, the mass transfer coefficient of Fe2+ in the boundary layer is the smallest, which is 5.4 × 10−7 cm/s, and the linear equation fitting the reaction rate constant versus temperature is ln vr = –24.43/T - 14.62. Moreover, the lime dissolution was a process of melting from outside to inside, layer by layer, the CaO-SiO2 complex phases were formed on the surface of lime and CaO-FeO complex phases were formed inside.
Koffein und Schokolade als neue Therapieoptionen bei
Parkinson?
Authors: Köglsperger Thomas , Dieterich Marianne
Published: June 2023

Die Parkinson-Erkrankung ist eine neurodegenerative Krankheit, die immer
häufiger auftritt und nach der Alzheimer-Demenz die zweithäufigste
ist. In Deutschland sind etwa 400 000 Menschen von dieser Krankheit
betroffen, was die Suche nach krankheitsmodifizierenden
Behandlungsmöglichkeiten zu einem dringenden Thema macht. In dieser Ausgabe
stellt Heinz Reichmann 1 eine vielversprechende
Therapie option vor, die auf Adenosin A2A-Rezeptorantagonisten beruht, die in Kaffee
und Schokolade enthalten sind.
Diagnosis of Pulmonary Embolism in Pregnancy
Authors: Fitzsimmons Jack , Hart Laura , Oliver Emily , Mulla Wadia
Published: June 2023

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a significant cause of obstetric morbidity and mortality. However, overdiagnosis related to excessive use of diagnostic testing is also associated with long-term major health issues, including impact on future pregnancies and subsequent health care. Accurate diagnosis of PE depends on the knowledge of prevalence of PE in the pregnant population, the a priori probability of a PE based on specific findings in a given patient, and understanding of the accuracy of computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA), the dominant diagnostic modality employed for this diagnosis. Venous thromboembolism is widely considered to be more common in pregnancy. However, this term includes both deep venous thrombosis as well as PE. While the former appears to be more common, published data on the prevalence of PE in pregnancy show little or no increase relative to the general population. Given the published data on the sensitivity and specificity of CTPA, a positive reading is more likely to be a false positive unless the probability of a PE in a given patient is at least 5% (a 200-fold increase from baseline). Doubling the probability to 10% (a 400-fold increase) only improves the positive predictive value to approximately 67%. Strategies to refine the a priori probability of a PE in a given patient are detailed, including scoring systems and D-dimer measurements. A careful history and physical examination and thoughtful development of a differential diagnosis are key elements of clinical practice and should include both the likelihood of each possible diagnosis and the accuracy of diagnostic modalities. This approach should precede the application of a given algorithm. Such a structured approach can decrease utilization and limit false positive diagnoses without increasing morbidity or mortality.

Key Points
More Is Not Merrier: Increasing Numbers of All-Inside Implants Do Not Correlate with Higher Odds of Revision Surgery
Authors: Oosten James D. , DiBartola Alex C. , Wright Jonathan C. , Cavendish Parker A. , Milliron Eric M. , Magnussen Robert A. , Duerr Robert A. , Kaeding Christopher C. , Flanigan David C.
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the number of all-inside meniscal repair implants placed and the risk of repair failure. We hypothesized that the use of higher numbers of all-inside meniscus repair implants would be associated with increased failure risk. A retrospective chart review identified 351 patients who underwent all-inside meniscus repair between 2006 and 2013 by a sports medicine fellowship–trained orthopaedic surgeon at a single institution. Patient demographics (age, body mass index [BMI], sex) and surgical data (number of implants used, concomitant anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction [cACLR], and tear type/size/location) were recorded. Patients who received repairs in both menisci or who had follow-up < 1-year postoperatively were excluded. Repair failure was identified through chart review or patient interviews defined as a revision surgery on the index knee such as partial meniscectomy, total knee arthroplasty, meniscus transplant, or repeat repair. Logistic regression modeling was utilized to evaluate the relationship between the number of implants used and repair failure. A total of 227 all-inside meniscus repairs were included with a mean follow-up of 5.0 ± 3.0 years following surgery. Repair failure was noted in 68 knees (30.3%)—in 28.1% of knees with fewer than four implants and in 35.8% of knees with four or more implants (p = 0.31). No significant increase in failure was observed with increasing number of all-inside medial (odds ratio [OR]: 1.15; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.79–1.7; p = 0.46) or lateral (OR: 0.86; 95% CI: 0.47–1.57; p = 0.63) implants after controlling for patient age, BMI, cACLR, tear type, or size. Tears of the lateral meniscus located in the red–white and white–white zones had lower odds of failure (OR: 0.14; 95% CI: 0.02–0.88; p = 0.036) than tears within the red–red zone, and patients with cACLR had lower odds of repair failure (OR: 0.40; 95% CI: 0.18–0.86, p = 0.024) than those without. The number of all-inside implants placed during meniscus tear repair did not affect the likelihood of repair failure leading to reoperation after controlling for BMI, age, tear type, size, location, and cACLR.

Level of Evidence III.
A Novel Technique Using the Dorsal Capsule of the Distal Radioulnar Joint for Extensor Carpi Ulnaris Tendon Subsheath Reconstruction
Authors: Png Christina , Choudhury Muntasir Mannan , Chin Andrew Yuan Hui
Published: June 2023

Background Ulnar-sided wrist pain is a common problem encountered by hand surgeons. Symptomatic recurrent subluxation of the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) tendon has become increasingly recognized as one of the pathological conditions leading to ulnar-sided wrist pain. Surgical reconstruction of the subsheath is usually needed. ECU tendon subsheath reconstruction with the periosteal flap was first described by Schlesinger in 1907. Since then, various other techniques have been widely used. We describe a technique of ECU subsheath reconstruction using the dorsal capsule of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ).

Description of Technique Two hand surgeons performed the surgeries with the same steps taken each time. A detailed description of our surgical technique, with the dorsal capsule of the DRUJ used to reconstruct the ECU tendon subsheath, is illustrated.

Patient and Methods Patients who presented with symptomatic ECU instability despite conservative treatment or who have failed primary subsheath repair were offered this surgical option. Patients were followed up postoperatively for an average duration of 6.7 months in our outpatient clinics for assessment of wrist function. The surgical outcomes were reviewed and graded with the Modified Mayo Wrist Score (MMWS).

Results All but one of the seven patients had an overall improvement in their range of movement of the wrist, grip strength, and pain scores. Four patients had excellent outcomes on the MMWS, one of whom had an asymptomatic recurrence seen on dynamic ultrasound. Two patients required subsequent surgeries: one had an excellent outcome and the other had a poor outcome on the MMWS.

Conclusion We present our first seven cases of ECU subsheath reconstruction with the dorsal capsule of the DRUJ. Our results in the short term have been satisfactory. The technique does not disrupt the integrity of the extensor retinaculum, which is essential for optimal extensor tendon function, and can also be considered as an option to salvage failed procedures.
Utility of Hematological Parameters in Early Diagnosis of Neonatal Sepsis in Comparison to C-Reactive Protein
Authors: Joshi Divya , Padma Shetty K. , K. Jayaprakash Shetty , Goel Shreya , Hidangmayum Abena
Published: June 2023

Background Neonatal sepsis is the most common cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity. As neonatal sepsis presents with subtle symptoms and signs, decision to start empirical antibiotics is most often based on risk profile. Hematological parameters and C-reactive protein (CRP) are routinely done as a part of sepsis screening, but isolation of microorganism on blood culture is the gold standard for diagnosis of sepsis.

Methodology One-hundred neonates with suspected sepsis were studied and their hematological parameters, hematological scoring system (HSS), and CRP were correlated to blood culture.

Results Among the study population, immature to total neutrophil count (I:T) ratio had the best sensitivity (94.1%) and negative predictive value (83.3%), followed by HSS with a sensitivity of 64.7% and negative predictive value of 68.4%, whereas CRP was more specific (75.9%).

Conclusion HSS and CRP are good predictors of diagnosis of neonatal sepsis. I:T ratio had the best sensitivity and negative predictive value.
Neuropsychological and quality of life outcomes in PKU patients: expert recommendations of assessment tools in Brazil
Authors: Schwartz Ida Vanessa Doederlein , Quesada Andrea Amaro , Ribeiro Erlane Marques , Martins Ana Maria , Vilela Daniel Reda Fenga , Pessoa André
Published: June 2023

Background Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an inborn error of metabolism caused by deficient activity of phenylalanine hydroxylase. In Brazil, the National Neonatal Screening Program enables early treatment of patients with PKU, which prevents them from developing severe neurological damage and mental disabilities. However, between 20 and 30% of early-treated patients with PKU present focal cognitive deficits, including deficits in working memory, processing speed, and psychiatric symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Therefore, age-specific neuropsychiatric and cognitive tests are important components of PKU patient care. To date, there are no officially approved guidelines or recommendations of tools in Portuguese validated for use in Brazil that could be applied to assess these parameters in patients with PKU.

Objective To recommend tools validated for use in Brazil that can be used in daily clinical practice to assess quality of life and neuropsychological outcomes in patients with PKU.

Methods Six Brazilian experts discussed about eligible tools based on their clinical experience, the feasibility of their use in clinical routines, and their availability in public health services. Before the meeting, an independent review of the literature was conducted to identify the currently validated tools in Brazil, using the MEDLINE and SciELO databases.

Results The experts recommended nine tools to assess quality of life (Peds-QL, SF-36 or WHOQOL-bref), executive function (BRIEF or Bayley-III), IQ (SONR 2½-7[a] or WASI) and ADHD (MTA-SNAP-IV and ASRS).

Conclusion These instruments may be easily incorporated into clinical practice and improve the quality of multidisciplinary care of patients with PKU.
Effects of Transfixation Pin Positioning on the Biomechanical Properties of Acrylic External Skeletal Fixators in a Fracture Gap Model
Authors: Lahiani Joachim , Freire Mila , Montasell Xavier , Juette Tristan , Gagnon Dominique
Published: June 2023

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical effects of transfixation pin positioning in acrylic columns of external skeletal fixators (ESF).

Study Design Twenty-four type I acrylic ESF were built simulating a fracture gap-model. Transfixation pins were placed centric (n = 12) or eccentric at ¼ of the column diameter (n = 12) in the acrylic columns. Six constructs from each group were subjected to axial compression and four-point bending tests. Stiffness, yield load and mode of failure were recorded.

Results Stiffness was not influenced by centring (p = 0.373), but it was higher in four-point bending than in axial compression (p < 0.001). Pin positioning had no influence on the yield (p = 0.535) and failure loads (p = 0.715) in axial compression, nor on the yield load in bending (p = 0.135). Eccentric pin positioning decreased failure loads by 28% in bending (p < 0.001).

Conclusion Eccentric position of transfixation pins within the acrylic columns alters the biomechanical properties of type I ESF constructs. While acrylic offers several advantages, when forming the columns, frame strength will be optimized if pins are centrally located.
In Silico ADMET and Molecular Interaction Profiles of Phytochemicals from Medicinal Plants in Dakshina Kannada
Authors: James Jainey P. , Ail Puneeth Deepak , Crasta Lenisha , Kamath Rakshith Sudheer , Shura M. H. , T.J Sindhu
Published: June 2023

The success or failure of a potential drug depends on its absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) characteristics, and these features are usually rate-limiting in the drug development process. Hence, it is essential to know about the predicted ADMET properties of the most promising leads to avoid the risk of late-stage attrition. This project focuses on in silico screening of ADMET properties of phytochemicals found in Dakshina Kannada's medicinal plants, which include Tinospora cordifolia, Azadirachta indica, Ocimum sanctum, and Plectranthus amboinicus, mainly known for their antimicrobial properties.

The physicochemical properties, bioactivity scores, ADMET, and molecular interactions of the selected phytoconstituents were determined by QikProp, Molinspiration, ADMETlab 2.0, ProTox-II, and GLIDE. In addition, molecular docking checked for their binding interactions with target proteins 1JIJ and 4 HOE of Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, respectively, as they were well known for their antimicrobial properties. In this studies, rosmarinic acid was well interacted phytochemical with both target proteins and has highest docking score.

The physicochemical properties showed that all compounds fell under the recommended molecular weight, volume, and polar surface area range. Xanosporic acid violated two rules of Lipinski's Rule of Five, indicating that it may have problems with oral bioavailability. The ADME properties for most of the phytocompounds were within the recommended ranges; hence, they are promising candidates for drug development. Most phytoconstituents showed good bioactivity scores, indicating they have good druglikeness properties. On the analysis of the toxicity, most of the phytoconstituents were found to be noncarcinogenic and nonmutagenic. Therefore, this data can further be utilized as primary tools for determining the biological actions of these plants.

Xanosporic acid was found to violate two out of three rules of Lipinski. Similarly, ursolic acid and oleanolic acid also showed a few undesirable properties. All other compounds otherwise showed desirable properties and hence are promising candidates for drug development. This data can be further utilized as primary tool for determining the biological actions of the plants.
Prevalence and Impact of HMOX1 Polymorphism (rs2071746: A > T) in Indian Sickle Cell Disease Patients
Authors: Pandey Hareram , Singh Kanwaljeet , Ranjan Ravi , Dass Jasmita , Tyagi Seema , Seth Tulika , Saxena Renu , Mahapatra Manoranjan
Published: June 2023

Introduction Fetal hemoglobin (HbF) levels play significant role in lowering down the morbidity and mortality in sickle cell disease (SCD) patients. Coinheritance of heme oxygenase-1 (HMOX1) rs2071746:A > T polymorphism may contribute to variable HbF levels in Indian SCD patients.

Objective This study was aimed to evaluate the role of HMOX1 polymorphism and its impact on HbF level in Indian SCD patients.

Materials and Methods One-hundred twenty confirmed cases of SCD and 50 healthy controls were recruited. Their mean age was 11.5 ± 8.6 years (range: 3–23 years). Quantification of Hb, HbA2, HbF, and HbS was done by capillary zone electrophoresis. Allele-specific polymerase chain reaction was used to genotype HMOX1 (rs2071746:A > T) gene polymorphism.

Results Out of the 120 cases of SCD, 65 were hemoglobin sickle-shaped (HbSS) and 55 were sickle-beta thalassemia (Sβ). Out of 65 HbSS patients, 29 (44.6%) were heterozygous (AT), 20 (30.76%) were homozygous (TT), and 16 (24.61%) were found wild-type (AA) genotype. Out of 55 Sβ, 22 (40%) were heterozygous, 18 (32%) were homozygous and 15 (28%) were wild-type. Patients carrying HMOX1 (rs2071746:A > T), AT, and TT genotypes had less anemia, painful crisis, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, jaundice, and blood transfusion. HbF level was found higher in TT genotype (in HbSS the HbF levels was 25.1 ± 4.4; in sickle-beta thalassemia the HbF levels was 36.1 ± 4.7) than wild-type(AA) and was statistically significant (p-value <0.001).

Conclusion The TT genotype of the rs2071746:A > T polymorphism was associated with increased levels of Hb F (p < 0.001). It can serve as a HbF modifier in Indian sickle cell diseases patients.
Evaluation of Surgical Technique and Clinical Results of a Procedure-Specific Fixation Method for Tibial Tuberosity Transposition in Dogs: 37 Cases
Authors: Onis David , Entoft Jessica , Wouters Erik G.H. , Skytte Ditte , Bruining-Staal Karin , Vernooij Johannes C.M. , Meij Björn Petrus
Published: June 2023

Objective The aim of this study was to describe the use of a procedure-specific fixation method for tibial tuberosity transposition and report clinical outcome.

Study Design This is a multi-institutional case series, evaluating 37 cases that were treated surgically for medial patellar luxation (MPL) and in which the tibial tuberosity transposition (TTT) was performed using the Rapid Luxation Plating System (RLPS). Surgical technique, implants, clinical outcome, and complications are reported.

Results Surgery was successfully performed in dogs weighing 2.5 to 36.2 kg. Postoperative minor complications occurred in 13 cases (35%) and major complications occurred in 3 cases (8%). No implant-related complications or tibial tuberosity avulsions or fractures were seen. Outcome related to surgery was good or excellent in all cases.

Conclusion The RLPS for TTT provides a feasible technique in a large range of patients with MPL and lowers the occurrence of implant-related complications and tibial tuberosity avulsion or fracture.
Outcomes of Pediatric Neurosurgical Cases Managed by General Neurosurgeons: A Retrospective Study from Eastern India
Authors: Acharya Abhijit , Senapati Satya Bhusan , Puppala Sumirini , Mahapatra AK
Published: June 2023

Background India is home to almost 19% of the world's children. The burden of diseases in the pediatric age group is quite high and is just the tip of the iceberg. In India, there are very few neurosurgeons who deal with cases in the pediatric age group. Most parents avoid surgical management for their child due lack of confidence in the expertise of the neurosurgeon in handling pediatric cases. Many challenges are encountered in the pediatric population during the pre-, intra- and post-operative period.

Objectives The aim of this study is to study the demographic profile and respective outcomes of pediatric neurosurgical cases (below 18 years of age).

Methods A retrospective study of cases over a period of 1.5 years in the Department of Neurosurgery, Institute of Medical Sciences and Sum Hospital was done. The variables analyzed were age group, sex, diagnosis, elective or emergency, neurological examination, and outcome. Data analysis was done using Version 3.0.2; 2013-09-25 for Statistical Computing (IBM Corporation's SPSS programme, version 27.0, 2020). Literature review was done through the NCBI PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar databases. Quality of life was assessed by the disability-adjusted life years (DALY) score approved by the World Health Organization.

Results The majority of the patients had significant improvement in achieving milestones with reduced morbidity and one case of mortality.

Conclusion To conclude, we have managed all cases of pediatric age group in a general neurosurgery department with utmost skill and meticulous surgery, with less than 0.1% mortality. In the cases that pertain to low resourced centers, areas, and countries where general neurosurgeons are mandated and obliged to perform pediatric neurosurgical procedures, we general neurosurgeons should take it as a challenge to manage these pediatric cases as our study showed appreciable results although the need for specialized pediatric neurosurgical care cannot be overemphasized.
Prenatal Ultrasound Findings of Circumvallate Placenta and Pregnancy Outcomes
Authors: Herrera Christina L. , Chu Tina M. , Stanteen Samantha Mendoza , Twichell Elizabeth C. , Cardona Jennifer , McIntire Donald D. , Twickler Diane M. , Spong Catherine Y.
Published: June 2023

Objective Circumvallate placenta has a suggested association with adverse pregnancy outcomes (antenatal bleeding, placental abruption, preterm birth, emergency cesarean, small for gestational age infants, and stillbirth). The aim was to determine if prenatal diagnosis of circumvallate placenta is associated with these adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Study Design Pregnancies with a singleton gestation prenatally diagnosed with circumvallate placenta between January 1, 2012 and March 31, 2021 were identified. Adverse pregnancy outcomes were obtained. Rates of adverse pregnancy outcomes were compared among those with prenatally diagnosed circumvallate placentas to those without this prenatal diagnosis with a 4:1 control matched group. Pregnancies with known fetal anomalies or other placental abnormalities were excluded. Statistical analyses included Student's t-test and Χ
2 with p < 0.05 considered significant.

Results Prenatal ultrasound findings of circumvallate placenta were seen in 179 pregnant people (0.20% of all anatomic US studies and 0.17% of all deliveries). Diagnosis was made at a mean gestational age of 19.8 ± 2.4 weeks. Adverse pregnancy outcomes were similar between groups.

Conclusion Prenatal ultrasound findings of circumvallate placenta do not correlate with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Given overall good prognosis, prenatal diagnosis of circumvallate placenta may not warrant additional surveillance during pregnancy.

Key Points
Child sexual exploitation and the adoption of public health approaches to prevention: critical reflections on evolving processes and practices
Authors: Weston Samantha , Mythen Gabe
Published: June 2023

In recent years, the use of public health approaches to address complex social problems has gained popularity. In England and Wales, the rise in low-volume, high-harm crime has accelerated this shift, with calls for public health interventions to tackle knife-crime, extremism and sexual violence made by politicians, policy-makers, welfare workers and the police service. Notwithstanding such appeals, how public health approaches are both operationalised and impact remain largely unknown. Drawing on findings from a qualitative study focused on the implementation of a specific initiative in the UK designed to reduce the risk of Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) amongst young people, this article attempts to address tangible gaps in these two key areas of knowledge. Although generally supportive of a public health approach to CSE, an analysis of in-depth interviews with members of a multi-agency team reveals a number of quandaries and thorny issues when implemented within a specific policing and criminal justice context.
Children’s education and parents’ dietary nutrient intake: an empirical study based on rural China
Authors: Wei Ning , Sun Dingqiang
Published: June 2023

This paper, taking the middle-aged and elderly parents in rural families of China as the subject, studies the impact of children’s education on parents’ dietary nutrient intake. After analyzing the data in China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) 2011, this study discovers that China’s rural children’s higher educational level exerts a significant positive impact on the improvement of parents’ food consumption, nutrient intake and diet quality. This indicates that the improvement of rural education can be an effective approach to increase dietary nutrient intake of China’s rural population. The policy implication of this study is to further develop rural basic education, consolidate the coverage of compulsory education, and incorporate nutrition education into national education system.
Aquaculture nutrition in Australia: challenges and trends
Authors: Truong H. H. , Hines B. M. , Rombenso A. N. , Simon C. J.
Published: June 2023

This review provides an outline of some of the challenges facing nutritionists in the Australian aquaculture industry. It commences with a brief description of how aquaculture nutrition differs from that for terrestrial livestock – the challenges of providing nutrition in aqueous environments, the diversity of species and the high trophic level of most. Specific challenges of aquaculture nutrition are then discussed in further detail, including the difficulty of measuring feed intake and digestibility, the limited ability to use carbohydrates for carnivores, and the specific requirements of species for lipids, including cholesterol, phospholipids, long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and carotenoids. The review then examines how environmental, social and governance concerns are leading to new trends in nutrition for the Australian industry. This includes topics such as the replacement of wild-caught fish meal and fish oil, in terms of both sources of omega-3 lipids and protein. For the former, possible solutions include greater use of seafood trimming, algal oil, and GMO-derived products. For the latter, solutions can include use of livestock render, plant protein meals, fermented products, and insects. Nutrient discharge is also a concern for the industry and nutritionist can assist by improving digestibility and nutrient retention from feeds. Finally, the carbon footprint of aquaculture is leading to new directions for industry and, in turn, for the field of aquaculture nutrition.
Parametric evaluation of heat transfer mechanisms in a WUI fire scenario
Authors: Fiorini Cesare , Craveiro Hélder D. , Santiago Aldina , Laím Luís , Simões da Silva Luís
Published: June 2023

Background Wildland–urban interface (WUI) fires are becoming more frequent and catastrophic as they are associated with the effects of climate change, demographic pressure, human activities, abandonment of rural areas and activities promoting dangerous fuel continuity. For example, in the central regions of Portugal, Chile and California, severe direct and indirect impacts have been observed, with a catastrophic number of fatalities. Aims Mitigating and reducing the impacts of wildfires in the WUI requires understanding heat transfer mechanisms from forest fires and understanding how structures ignite is crucial to define and implement new mitigation strategies. Methods Adopting Computational Fluid Dynamics is essential to assess the WUI fire problem by simulating fire behaviour and quantifying its characteristics. In this paper, a building is exposed to several wildfire scenarios, assessing the influence of parameters such as materials, fuels, topography and meteorological conditions. Key results The investigated scenarios were developed considering validated Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) models of single trees on fire and the influence of governing parameters was quantified. Conclusions For the selected scenarios, the impacts on the building were assessed and compared, quantifying heat release rates, radiative heat flux and adiabatic surface temperature. Implications This research contributes to a Performance-Based Design (PBD) approach for buildings in the WUI.
Fire on a tropical floodplain: a fine-scale fire history of coastal floodplains in the Northern Territory, Australia
Authors: Leppitt Robin , Evans Jay , Einoder Luke , Kyne Peter M. , Woinarski John C. Z. , Garnett Stephen T.
Published: June 2023

Background The coastal floodplains of northern Australia are fire-prone, but the impact of fire on floodplain biota is not well understood. Aims In this study, we sought to characterise the fire history of six adjacent floodplains in coastal Northern Territory, Australia. Methods We built a fine-scale 31-year fire history (1988–2018) to compare fire regimes on floodplains across land tenures and floodplain fire regimes with the surrounding savanna fire regime, determine the extent to which current fire regimes are meeting existing ecological fire thresholds, and investigate the relationship between rainfall totals and the extent of burning. Key results Floodplains in conservation reserves burnt more frequently than those on pastoral lands, and savannas burnt more often than floodplains. Current floodplain fire regimes comfortably meet existing ecological fire thresholds. The proportion of floodplain burning is inversely proportional to the amount of rain in the previous wet season. Conclusions Floodplain fire regimes vary markedly between land-use types, and floodplain fire regimes differ to those of savannas. The current management thresholds for floodplain fire regimes would benefit from further evidence of conservation outcomes. Implications For more effective floodplain fire management, research is needed to generate floodplain-specific thresholds that best conserve their considerable conservation value.
Effects of B addition on microstructure and thermal conductivity of Cu–B composites produced by hot-extrusion of elemental powders
Authors: Chun Young-Bum , Chung SeungHyeok , Rhee Chang-Kyu , Ryu Ho Jin
Published: June 2023

This work proposes a new neutron absorber, Cu–B composites, with excellent thermal conductivity and good neutron absorbing capability. Mixtures of elemental Cu and B powders with the B contents varying between 10 and 40 at.-% were consolidated into round bars by hot extrusion. The addition of B significantly refined the grain structure, which is related to the suppression of dynamic recrystallisation during hot extrusion and extended recovery during subsequent annealing. Such fine-grained structure in Cu–B composites together with dispersion hardening by B particles contributed to the higher hardness of Cu–B composites. The thermal conductivity of Cu–B composites, being roughly two times higher than that of Al–B4C MMC, decreases with increasing the B contents, which is mainly due to higher volume fraction B particles with lower thermal conductivity, and partly to texture randomisation and refined grain structure in the Cu–B composites.
Manipulation of the multiple bound states in the continuum and slow light effect in the all-dielectric metasurface
Authors: Xie Suxia , Sun Siyi , Li Zhijian , Yang Jingcheng , Shen Weiwei , Guan Xin
Published: June 2023

All-dielectric metasurface with ultra-high quality resonances underpinned by bound states in the continuum (BICs) have attracted lots of attention in recent years for they enable new methods of wavefront control and light focusing. We study a metasurface composed of one transverse nanohole (TNs) and two identical vertical nanoholes (VNs) in one lattice, which supports both symmetry-protected and accidental BICs (at-Γ and off-Γ BICs). Based on the destructive interference between the surface states from the TN element and the identical VNs element, two at-Γ BICs emerge, and they turn into quasi-BICs by rotating the electric field polarization direction of the incident plane wave from x to y. The off-Γ BICs come from destructive interference from different radiation channels, which are influenced by the in-plane structural parameters symmetry insignificantly. Two at-Γ BICs and one off-Γ BIC of the metasurface all have ultra-high Q-factors (exceeding 106, 104, and 106, respectively), which means much in the application of biosensors. Especially, this nanostructure has outstanding ultra-slow light properties at BICs, with a group index about 106, which underpin a new generation of flat-optics slow light devices.
Exchange stiffness reduction in Ta substituted NiFe alloys
Authors: Strelkov Nikita , Timopheev Andrey , Cuchet Lea , Dounia Salim , Ducruet Clarisse , Bunyaev Sergey A , Kakazei Gleb N , Childress Jeffrey R
Published: June 2023

In magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) for memory or sensor applications, insertion of Ta nanolayers at the interface of, or within magnetic layers such as CoFe or NiFe is often employed to enhance the tunneling magnetoresistance, although it also locally reduces the magnetization and modifies the magnetic properties. To properly model the magnetic behavior of such structures, it is important to be able to accurately account for these modifications. In this paper, we investigate experimentally and by means of ab initio calculations, the degradation of magnetic and magneto-dynamic properties of Ni0.81Fe0.19 films doped with small amounts of Ta. Both the calculations and the experiment confirm the expected drop of saturation magnetization parameter with increased Ta doping. It is also found that the exchange stiffness is reduced much faster than the magnetization. Calculations show that the presence of Ta impurities has the greatest effect on the magnetic properties of Ni, the dominant element. For example, the introduction of 10 atomic % Ta reduces the exchange stiffness constant by a factor of 10, while the room temperature magnetization reduces by less than a factor of 3, resulting mainly from a decrease in the Curie temperature from 870 to 420 K. Consequently, the reduction in exchange coupling across Ta nanolayers can significantly modify the detailed magnetic behavior and in particular the propagation of exchange coupling within MTJ multilayers.
Spin-resolved transport of multifunctional C18 molecule-based nanodevices: a first-principles study
Authors: Xiong Songbo , Dong Xiansheng , Xie Luzhen , Guan Zhiyong , Long Mengqiu , Chen Tong
Published: June 2023

As is well known, Kasier et al first synthesized a cyclic molecule C18, as characterized by high-resolution atomic force microscopy, is a polyalkylene structure in which the 18 carbon atoms are linked by alternating single and triple bonds Kaiser et al (2019 Science
365 1299–301). Early studies have found that the C18 molecule has semiconducting properties, suggesting that a similar straight-chain carbon structure could become a molecular device. Inspired by this, an analysis of spin-resolved electronic transport of nanodevices made by C18 sandwiched between zigzag graphyne nanoribbon leads or zigzag graphene nanoribbon leads presents here. The computational results demonstrate that a good spin-filtering effect, spin rectifying effect and an obvious negative differential resistance behavior in designed model devices can be obtained. Moreover, a stable dual-spin filtering effect or diode effect can be occurred in considered model devices with leads in an antiparallel state. The intrinsic mechanisms of molecular nanodevices are explained in detail by analyzing the transmission spectrum under different bias voltage, local density of states, molecular projection Hamiltonian, Current–Voltage (I–V) characteristics, transmission pathways, et al. These results are particularly significant for the development of multifunctional spintronic nanodevices.
CS-based multi-task learning network for arrhythmia reconstruction and classification using ECG signals
Authors: Tang Suigu , Deng Zicong
Published: June 2023

Objective. Although deep learning-based current methods have achieved impressive results in electrocardiograph (ECG) arrhythmia classification issues, they rely on using the original data to identify arrhythmia categories. However, a large amount of data generated by long-term ECG monitoring pose a significant challenge to the limited-bandwidth and real-time systems, which limits the application of deep learning in ECG monitoring. Approach. This paper, therefore, proposed a novel multi-task network that combined compressed sensing and convolutional neural networks, namely CSML-Net. According to the proposed model, the ECG signals were compressed by utilizing a learning measurement matrix and then recovered and classified simultaneously via shared layers and two task branches. Among them, the multi-scale feature module was designed to improve model performance. Main results. Experimental results on the MIT-BIH arrhythmia dataset demonstrate that our proposed method is superior to all the approaches that have been compared in terms of reconstruction quality and classification performance. Significance. Consequently, the proposed model achieving the reconstruction and classification in the compressed domain can be an improvement and become a promising approach for ECG arrhythmia reconstruction and classification.
A numerical approach for modeling response of shape memory polymer composite corrugated structure
Authors: Bhola Lalit , Saurav A K , Mujumdar P M , Guruprasad P J
Published: June 2023

This study presents a numerical framework for a unidirectional shape memory polymer-based composite (SMPC) corrugated structure. The framework combines an empirically modified constitutive model of shape memory polymer (SMP) with modified temperature-dependent laminate theory. Model parameters in the SMP constitutive relation are determined and calibrated from the dynamic mechanical analysis tests. Subsequently, the numerical implementation of the SMP model is validated with experimental results from the three-point bending test. This was followed by simulations to investigate the thermo-mechanical response of SMPC lamina. The findings from the simulations revealed the influence of SMPC fiber orientation and volume fraction on stored strain through the spring back effect. Finally, the framework is applied to investigate the shape memory response of a unidirectional SMPC trapezoidal corrugated structure. The simulations highlight the potential of the SMPC corrugated structure as a load bearing adaptive structure for wing morphing applications.
Effect of temperature on the electrical and electromechanical properties of carbon nanotube/polypropylene composites
Authors: Balam A , Valdez-Nava Z , Bley V , Ayuso-Faber P , Carrillo-Escalante H , Castillo-Atoche A , Avilés F
Published: June 2023

The effect of temperature on the electrical and electromechanical (piezoresistive) properties of composite films made of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and polypropylene is investigated. The electrical response to temperature in alternating current (AC, i.e. thermoimpedance) showed higher sensitivity than in direct current (DC, thermoresistivity) and is influenced by frequency (f). The sensitivity factor in DC reached 1.07 %°C−1, while in AC at 100 Hz was 2.7 % C−1 for the impedance modulus for 4 wt.% MWCNT nanocomposites . The electrical properties of the nanocomposites in AC investigated through broadband dielectric spectroscopy exhibited a resistive-capacitive behavior with a transition at f ∼104 Hz. Temperature also showed a strong influence on the piezoresistive response of the nanocomposites, showing a 10% increase in the piezoresistive sensitivity at 50 °C with respect to the response at 25 °C, and an important decrease in sensitivity at 100 °C for small (<3%) strains. The influence of temperature on the electrical and electromechanical responses investigated herein may assist in further developments of smart temperature-sensing materials, and in developing thermal compensation factors to properly calibrate piezoresistive/piezoimpedance responses for strain measurements.