bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaporation-induced self-assembly of liquid crystal biopolymers
Authors: Park Soon Mo , Yoon Dong Ki
Published: February 2024

This review encapsulates recent progress in evaporation-induced self-assembly of liquid crystal biopolymers. It introduces various anisotropic structures of biopolymers in thin film and try to figure out the formation mechanism of the structures.
Electrochemical modulation of mechanical properties of glycolated polythiophenes
Authors: Abdel Aziz Ilaria , Gladisch Johannes , Musumeci Chiara , Moser Maximilian , Griggs Sophie , Kousseff Christina J. , Berggren Magnus , McCulloch Iain , Stavrinidou Eleni
Published: February 2024

This work investigates the changes in the mechanical properties of glycolated polythiophenes induced by electrochemical addressing and by electrolyte concentration, due to its ability to stabilize water.
Bicolour, large area, inkjet-printed metal halide perovskite light emitting diodes
Authors: Schröder Vincent R. F. , Fratzscher Nicolas , Zorn Morales Nicolas , Rühl Daniel Steffen , Hermerschmidt Felix , Unger Eva L. , List-Kratochvil Emil J. W.
Published: February 2024

Using a sequential inkjet printing process, we realize bicoloured PeLEDs by selectively dissolving a bromide-based perovskite film with an iodide-based perovskite ink, resulting in red light-emitting features on a green light-emitting background.
Colorimetric detection of oral bacteria using functionalized gold nanoparticles as a plasmonic biosensor array
Authors: Wenck Christina , Leopoldt Dorthe , Habib Mosaieb , Hegermann Jan , Stiesch Meike , Doll-Nikutta Katharina , Heisterkamp Alexander , Torres-Mapa Maria Leilani
Published: February 2024

A plasmonic biosensor array consisting of functionalized gold nanoparticles with strong positive surface charge can detect dysbiosis-relevant oral bacterial species using colorimetric analysis.
Mo-catalyzed cyclization of N-vinylindoles and skatoles: synthesis of dihydroindolo[1,2-c]-quinazolines and dihydroindolo[3,2-b]-indoles, and evaluation of their anticancer activities
Authors: Pecnard Shannon , Liu Xinya , Provot Olivier , Retailleau Pascal , Tran Christine , Hamze Abdallah
Published: February 2024

Unveiling a Mo-catalyzed synthesis, unprecedented anticancer dihydroindolo[1,2-c]-quinazolines and dihydroindolo[3,2-b]-indoles were discovered from N-vinylazoles.
Direct regeneration of spent graphite anode material via a simple thermal treatment method
Authors: Li Xiaoxue , Wu Baoyu , Sun Hao , Zhu Kai , Gao Yinyi , Bao Tianzeng , Wu Hongbin , Cao Dianxue
Published: February 2024

This work reports a novel method for recycling spent graphite. The regenerated graphite exhibits a discharge capacity of 366 mA h g−1 at 1C.
Determining shunt resistances via modeling the photovoltaic performance of organic solar cells
Authors: Qin Dashan , Qiu Mengyu , Zhan Xiaowei
Published: February 2024

The thermal vibration of molecules is markedly enhanced upon illumination (photoexcitation), leading to an increase in the (vibrational) free volume of photoactive layer and thereby markedly decreasing shunt resistance of device.
Flexible chalcogenide perovskite Ba3Te2S7 with high electron mobility and strong optical absorption ability
Authors: Du Juan , Shi Jun-jie , Deng Jin-xiang , Xia Cong-xin
Published: February 2024

The narrow bandgap, high electron mobility, significant optical absorption ability and favorable conduction-band offsets position flexible chalcogenide perovskite Ba3Te2S7 as a promising bottom-cell material in all-perovskite tandem solar cells.
Zum 228. Jahrgang ein Themenschwerpunkt und neue
Beiräte
Authors: Kehl Sven
Published: February 2024

Liebe Leserinnen und Leser,

ich möchte Ihnen allen im Namen der Herausgeber der Zeitschrift für
Geburtshilfe und Neonatologie (ZGN) und des Thieme Verlags die besten
Wünsche für das neue Jahr übermitteln. Das Jahr 2023 stand
perinatologisch zweifellos im Zeichen der Mindestmengen in der perinatologischen
Versorgung. Die Stellungnahme der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Perinatale
Medizin e. V. (DGPM) zu diesem teils kontrovers diskutierten Thema finden Sie in
dieser ersten Ausgabe im Jahr 2024.
Creating a Medication Therapy Observational Research Database from an Electronic Medical Record: Challenges and Data Curation
Authors: Rödle Wolfgang , Prokosch Hans-Ulrich , Neumann Eva , Toni Irmgard , Haering-Zahn Julia , Neubert Antje , Eberl Sonja
Published: February 2024

Background Observational research has shown its potential to complement experimental research and clinical trials by secondary use of treatment data from hospital care processes. It can also be applied to better understand pediatric drug utilization for establishing safer drug therapy. Clinical documentation processes often limit data quality in pediatric medical records requiring data curation steps, which are mostly underestimated.

Objectives The objectives of this study were to transform and curate data from a departmental electronic medical record into an observational research database. We particularly aim at identifying data quality problems, illustrating reasons for such problems and describing the systematic data curation process established to create high-quality data for observational research.

Methods Data were extracted from an electronic medical record used by four wards of a German university children's hospital from April 2012 to June 2020. A four-step data preparation, mapping, and curation process was established. Data quality of the generated dataset was firstly assessed following an established 3 × 3 Data Quality Assessment guideline and secondly by comparing a sample subset of the database with an existing gold standard.

Results The generated dataset consists of 770,158 medication dispensations associated with 89,955 different drug exposures from 21,285 clinical encounters. A total of 6,840 different narrative drug therapy descriptions were mapped to 1,139 standard terms for drug exposures. Regarding the quality criterion correctness, the database was consistent and had overall a high agreement with our gold standard.

Conclusion Despite large amounts of freetext descriptions and contextual knowledge implicitly included in the electronic medical record, we were able to identify relevant data quality issues and to establish a semi-automated data curation process leading to a high-quality observational research database. Because of inconsistent dosage information in the original documentation this database is limited to a drug utilization database without detailed dosage information.
Paintings in naked-eye virtual reality: a parallax view between the surface and volumetric depth
Authors: Wang Yiwen , Zhang Huiyu
Published: February 2024

This article explores a subgenre of naked-eye virtual reality (VR) video that features two-dimensional paintings in a three-dimensional space and is circulated on the Chinese video streaming website Bilibili. In contrast to traditional VR, which requires the spectator to wear a head-mounted display, naked-eye VR offers a stereoscopic view on the screen, eliminating the need for VR glasses. The apparent incongruity between the screen’s physical flatness and the volumetric depth of the painting becomes even more pronounced when the naked-eye VR image emphasises the painting’s inherent two-dimensionality. Employing an interdisciplinary humanities’ method that connects media archaeology, film studies, art history, and the field of science, technology, and society, this paper delves into this distinctive juxtaposition between the painting’s flatness and the volumetric depth characteristic of naked-eye VR, a subgenre that remains mostly uncharted in the field of film and media studies. Taking a media archaeological perspective, this paper introduces a parallax media history, suggesting that the aesthetics of VR can be traced not only to the stereoscope but also to scroll paintings, which are paradoxically defined by their flat compositions. In addition, naked-eye VR references pictorial traditions by generating a spatial illusion that leads spectators to feel as if they are delving beneath the surface of a painting, transitioning from spatial extensivity on the x-y axis to perceived depth along the z-axis. This oscillation between surface and depth is engendered by the horizontal parallax rooted in binocular disparity, thereby positioning naked-eye VR as a “parallax media.” In analysing the illusion created by naked-eye VR, this paper proposes a paradigmatic shift in the framework of media study from conceiving of an image as a mirror to experiencing it as a door, representing the oscillation between volumetric depth and two-dimensional surface.
A cholesterol-binding bacterial toxin provides a strategy for identifying a specific Scap inhibitor that blocks lipid synthesis in animal cells
Authors: Xu Shimeng , Smothers Jared C. , Rye Daphne , Endapally Shreya , Chen Hong , Li Shili , Liang Guosheng , Kinnebrew Maia , Rohatgi Rajat , Posner Bruce A. , Radhakrishnan Arun
Published: February 2024

Lipid synthesis is regulated by the actions of Scap, a polytopic membrane protein that binds cholesterol in membranes of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). When ER cholesterol levels are low, Scap activates SREBPs, transcription factors that upregulate genes for synthesis of cholesterol, fatty acids, and triglycerides. When ER cholesterol levels rise, the sterol binds to Scap, triggering conformational changes that prevent activation of SREBPs and halting synthesis of lipids. To achieve a molecular understanding of how cholesterol regulates the Scap/SREBP machine and to identify therapeutics for dysregulated lipid metabolism, cholesterol-mimetic compounds that specifically bind and inhibit Scap are needed. To accomplish this goal, we focused on Anthrolysin O (ALO), a pore-forming bacterial toxin that binds cholesterol with a specificity and sensitivity that is uncannily similar to Scap. We reasoned that a small molecule that would bind and inhibit ALO might also inhibit Scap. High-throughput screening of a ~300,000-compound library for ALO-binding unearthed one molecule, termed UT-59, which binds to Scap’s cholesterol-binding site. Upon binding, UT-59 triggers the same conformation changes in Scap as those induced by cholesterol and blocks activation of SREBPs and lipogenesis in cultured cells. UT-59 also inhibits SREBP activation in the mouse liver. Unlike five previously reported inhibitors of SREBP activation, UT-59 is the only one that acts specifically by binding to Scap’s cholesterol-binding site. Our approach to identify specific Scap inhibitors such as UT-59 holds great promise in developing therapeutic leads for human diseases stemming from elevated SREBP activation, such as fatty liver and certain cancers.
Nuances épistémiques autour de ce n’est pas sûr et ce n’est pas
dit
Authors: Rouanne Laurence
Published: February 2024

Dans le cadre général de la sémantique intégrée, cet article aborde les valeurs de deux séquences sémantiquement
très proches, ce n’est pas dit (précédemment abordé dans Rouanne
2023) et ce n’est pas sûr. Les deux séquences sont porteuses, dans certains de leurs emplois
du moins, d’une modalité épistémique. Si, pour la première, cette modalité fixe un jalon sur une échelle virtuelle du
plus ou moins probable, la seconde n’est pas scalaire. De plus, il semble que soit nécessaire la
présence d’une justification, dans la structure profonde de l’énoncé en ce n’est pas dit.
C’est là ce qui le différencie de ce n’est pas sûr, pour l’emploi duquel ledit motif est
loisible, mais non obligatoire.
What culture?
Authors: Sapountzis Antonis , Zarmakoupi Evangelia
Published: February 2024

Acculturation theory and research has examined the changes in cultural patterns that people undergo when
they enter a new cultural milieu. Berry’s (2001, 2005) seminal model has been a very influential theoretical framework but several criticisms have been yielded
over the years, one of which argues that the notion of culture within acculturation research is
undertheorized. In our chapter, we examine how people who work for an NGO that looks after unescorted refugee children talk
about the acculturation of refugee children. Participants often argued that refugee children should not adopt Greek cultural
elements but supranational cultural norms and values. It is argued that this may be a form of liquid racism
(Weaver 2011a), an ambivalent form of racism which on the one hand denies its
racist undertones, while on the other hand may covertly promote assimilation. In our data, participants often argued for the
maintenance of children’s culture, while on the other hand they constructed it as deficient, failing to match western European
standards or not respecting women rights.
Migrant voices in ‘antiracist’ video clips in Greece
Authors: Stamou Anastasia G. , Katrana Konstantina
Published: February 2024

As an attempt to manage cultural and linguistic divergences from the monocultural and monolingual norm,
European nation-states, including Greece, tend to enact overt, or more recently, covert forms of racist discourses. In the
present study, we analyze three video clips launched as part of antiracist campaigns in Greece against the backdrop of the
current refugee ‘crisis’. The critical analysis of the data shows that the migrant voices of the videos are framed as
non-elite in relation to the majority, while the non-assimilated migrant voices are also framed as non-elite in relation the
assimilated ones. We therefore argue that eliteness is a representational resource for the perpetuation of liquid racism, as
it normalizes the privilege of those constructed as elite in contrast to those constructed as non-elite (i.e. majority members
vs. migrants, and assimilated migrants vs. non-assimilated migrants).
Effect of martensitic reversal and grain size on the corrosion and wear behaviour of Cr-Mn steel
Authors: Shukla Sourabh , Jaju Santosh , Untawale Sachin , Chavhan Jitendra , Vashishtha Nitesh , Dhakane Atul , Bansod Ankur , Gahiga Gabriel
Published: February 2024

In this study, the effect of corrosion and wear behaviour of Cr-Mn steel on fine grains were investigated. The sample were solution annealed (SA) for 1 h at 1050 °C and then cold rolled (CW) to 30%. Further the cold rolled sample were thermally aged (CW + TA) 900 °C for four hours. The findings showed that under the 10 N applied load, wear resistance increased with an increase in hardness and martensite fraction of the cold worked (CW) samples. However, the Cr-Mn steel had the superior wear resistance after thermal ageing (TA). In microstructural examination deformation bands can also be visible in cold work samples. The analysis implies that the γ-phase is apparent across all peaks within the spectra of SA samples. In instances involving 30% cold work, prominent α′ martensite peaks were observed, accompanied by minimal ε-martensite peaks. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis discloses a reduction in impedance and a concurrent increase in the defect density of the passive film. The CW+TA structure with good inclusive performances created an early constant hardened layer, which didn’t delaminate and peel off prematurely, thereby effectively increasing the wear resistance, according to analysis of the wear mechanism. The results also concluded that the corrosion resistance of CW sample decreases due to SIM formation, however CW+TA sample provide better corrosion resistance due to smaller and refined grain size.
Thermoelectric generator modules based on warp knitted glass fiber-metal hybrid composites
Authors: Golla Anke , Schmidl Gabriele , Mersch Johannes , Gawlik Annett , Plentz Jonathan , Hahn Lars , Cherif Chokri
Published: February 2024

Thermoelectric generators (TEG) offer the potential to convert waste heat into electricity and thus contribute to reduce CO2 emissions. The conversion of electrical energy is based on the Seebeck effect of two electrically conductive materials without any mechanical conversion and therefore without wear. The application of conventional TEG modules is limited due to cost-intensive materials and production technology of TEG, and a limited structure design for the integration of Thermoelectric Elements (TE). To address this research challenge, this work presents the development of thermoelectric composite modules based on glass fiber reinforced warp knitted spacer fabrics. In a double needle bed warp knitting machine, glass fibers in warp, weft and pile direction are integrated. The contacting of TE in the form of wires with 45 TE cm−2 were implemented. A TEG module with 20.25 cm2 in size showed a maximum output power of 2.7 μW at a temperature difference of 60 K. The Seebeck factor of S = 142 μV K−1 was determined using this composite TEG with 10 TE strands and nearly 400 thermocouples. A thermoelectric model was developed for the calculation and the modules were characterized. For the first time, thermoelectric composite modules with sufficient structural-mechanical properties in terms of compressive and bending stiffness were realized based on spacer warp knitted fabrics, which can be used for the operation of sensors or small devices.
Fabrication of low-cost flexible thermoelectric generator using conductive HB graphite paint operated by solar radiation
Authors: Dungani Shreya , Anadkat Devang , Pandya Anil , Sanchela Anup V
Published: February 2024

Paper-based flexible thin film thermoelectric generators have emerged as a promising and feasible alternative to organic and inorganic conductors due to their ability to operate at room temperature within a limited temperature range. Here, a flexible solar thermoelectric generator (STEG) designed from a single material has been introduced, prepared by a simple painting method. We prepared HB graphite-based conductive paint and demonstrated a very unique method to design flexible STEG devices. The graphite paint shows p-type semiconductive behaviour, while, in conjunction with the polyethyleneimine (PEI) polymer, it acts as an n-type material. Based on the transport properties, the paint appears to be a good candidate for designing STEG devices. At room temperature, the power factor of 378 nW m−1 K−2 for p-type paint and 1.51 nW m−1 K−2 for n-type paint is obtained. In order to examine flexibility over the long term, the performance of the material was inspected through 300 repeated cycles, and transport properties (conductivity) were found to increase from 21 700 S m−1 to 73 500 S m−1 due to the excellent emulsifying properties of gum Arabic, which were confirmed by field emission scanning electron microscope analysis. To evaluate the performance of the thermoelectric (TE) generator, eight pairs of p–n legs are fabricated on normal copier (80 GSM) paper, and an output voltage of ∼0.1 mV K−1 (∼5.5 mV) for a temperature gradient T of up to ∼60 K was achieved. Further, the performance of flexible TE devices can be improved by increasing the number of thermoelectric legs and by sandwiching the device between Kapton tapes. Our work suggests a promising and simple approach to achieving cost-effective conversion of solar energy into electricity and highlights the potential of flexible STEGs for low-power applications.
Extraction of charge transfer states dissociation probability and localised states parameters for PTB7-Th:PC71BM photovoltaic cells: using experimental J-V curves
Authors: Amir Mohd , Singh Mukesh Pratap
Published: February 2024

The efficient separation of bounded electron–hole pairs (excitons) through charge transfer states (CTS) is a fundamental process in organic photovoltaic cells (OPVs). Introduction of CTS dissociation probability

CTS

dis

factor in the generation rate equations is a simple and effective method to estimate the number of dissociated CTS. In the present study, for a specified recombination coefficient (k), first we obtained the values of

CTS

dis

and subsequently determined the localized states parameters, i.e., electron/hole trap densities, tail slopes, and trap cross sections within the active layer (PTB7-Th:PC71BM). In order to extract these values, the experimental data of dark/light J-V curves and the density of charge carriers at the electrodes are fitted using the downhill simplex algorithm. An iterative approach is used to obtain the converged values. Furthermore, we explored the effect of compositional variation on

CTS

dis

and obtained values are 80%, 89%, 71%, and 57% for weight ratios of 1:1, 1:1.5, 1:2, and 1:2.5 respectively. All calculations and simulations are performed using OghmaNano.
Evaluation of the Specificity of the 2023 Duke-International Society of Cardiovascular Infectious Diseases Classification for Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Moisset Hugo , Rio Julien , Benhard Johan , Arnoult Florence , Deconinck Laurene , Grall Nathalie , Iung Bernard , Lescure Xavier , Rouzet François , Suc Gaspard , Hoen Bruno , Hobson Claire Amaris , Duval Xavier
Published: February 2024

Background

The 2023 Duke-ISCVID (International Society of Cardiovascular Infectious Diseases) classification is a new diagnostic tool for infective endocarditis, updating the 2000 modified Duke and the 2015 European Society for Cardiology (ESC) classifications. In comparison, its sensitivity is higher; however, its specificity remains to be evaluated and compared to that of the 2 other classifications in endocarditis suspected patients.

Methods

We retrospectively collected the characteristics of patients hospitalized in Bichat University’s Hospital, Paris, in 2021, who had been evaluated for clinical suspicion of endocarditis, have had at least a transthoracic echocardiography, 2 pairs of blood cultures, 3-month follow-up and in whom endocarditis diagnosis was finally rejected. All patients were classified by 2000 modified Duke, 2015 ESC and 2023 Duke-ISCVID, as though the endocarditis diagnosis had not been rejected.

Results

In total, 130 patients’ charts were analyzed. Mean age was 62 years, 84 (64.6%) were male, 39 (30.0%) had prosthetic cardiac valve or valve repair, 21 (16.2%) cardiac implanted electronic device, and 30 (23.1%) other cardiac conditions. Overall, 5, 2, and 5 patients were falsely classified as definite endocarditis with the 2000 modified Duke, 2015 ESC, and 2023 Duke-ISCVID classifications, respectively. The corresponding specificities were 96.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] [90.8%, 98.6%]), 98.5% (95% CI [93.9%, 99.7%]), and 96.2% (95% CI [90.8%, 98.6%]). The rates of possible endocarditis were of 38%, 35%, and 35% in the 3 classifications, respectively.

Conclusions

The 2023 Duke-ISCVID classification is highly specific for ruling out the diagnosis of definite infective endocarditis in patients who had been evaluated for IE.
Association between beta-blocker utilization and heart failure mortality in the peritoneal dialysis population: a cohort study
Authors: Gao Meizhu , Chen Han , Cao Fang , Zhang Li , Ruan Yiping , Liu Weihua , Hong Fuyuan , Luo Jiewei , Lin Miao
Published: February 2024

Background

The prognostic significance of beta(β)-blocker therapy in patients at end-stage renal disease, specifically those receiving peritoneal dialysis (PD) and presenting with heart failure, remains inadequately elucidated due to limited research conducted thus far.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on a cohort comprising 608 patients receiving PD between September 2007 and March 2019, with a subsequent follow-up period extending until December 2020. Cox regression and propensity score matching weighted analysis was used to model adjusted hazard ratios for β-blocker use with heart failure-related mortality. Competing risk analysis and subgroup analysis were carried out to further elucidate the correlation.

Results

β-blockers were prescribed for 56.1% of the peritoneal dialysis patients. Heart failure occurred in 43.4% of the total population and 15.5% of deaths were due to heart failure. The prescription of β-blockers was associated with a 43% lower adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for heart failure death within the cohort (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.36–0.89; P = 0.013). Even after accounting for competing risk events, patients in the group using β-blockers demonstrated a significantly lower cumulative risk of heart failure-related mortality compared to those not using β-blockers (P = 0.007). This protective effect of β-blockers was also observed in subgroup analyses. Conversely, β-blocker use had no statistically significant associations with all-cause mortality.

Conclusion

The use of β-blockers was associated with a reduced risk of heart failure-related mortality in the PD population. Future randomized clinical trials are warranted to confirm the beneficial effect of β-blockers in the context of PD.
Handling heatwaves: balancing thermoregulation, foraging and bumblebee colony success
Authors: Bretzlaff Tiffany , Kerr Jeremy T , Darveau Charles-A
Published: February 2024

Climate changes pose risks for bumblebee populations, which have declined relative to the growing frequency and severity of warmer temperature extremes. Bumblebees might mitigate the effects of such extreme weather through colonial behaviours. In particular, fanning behaviour to dissipate heat is an important mechanism that could reduce exposure of thermally sensitive offspring to detrimental nest temperatures (Tn). The allocation of workers towards fanning over prolonged periods could impact foraging activity that is essential for colony-sustaining resource gathering. Colony maintenance and growth could suffer as a result of nutritional and high ambient temperature (Ta) thermal stress. It remains uncertain whether a compromise occurs between thermoregulation and foraging under chronic, sublethal heat events and how colony success is impacted as a result. This study held colonies of Bombus impatiens at constant high Ta (25°C, 30°C or 35°C) for 2 weeks while quantifying the percentage of foragers, fanning incidence, nest temperature (Tn) and other metrics of colony success such as the percentage of adult emergence and offspring production. We found that foraging and adult emergence were not significantly affected by Ta, but that thermoregulation was unsuccessful at maintaining Tn despite increased fanning at 35°C. Furthermore, 35°C resulted in workers abandoning the colony and fewer offspring being produced. Our findings imply that heatwave events that exceed 30°C can negatively impact colony success through failed thermoregulation and reduced workforce production.
The use of mechanical circulatory support in elective high-risk percutaneous coronary interventions: a literature-based review
Authors: Geppert Alexander , Mashayekhi Kambis , Huber Kurt
Published: February 2024

Contemporary medical practices allow complete percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in a considerable number of patients who previously would have been considered too ‘high-risk’ for such procedures. The use of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices during these high-risk PCIs (HR-PCIs) is thought to reduce the potential risk for major adverse events during and after revascularization. The intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO), and the Impella are the most common MCS devices in use. This review aims to summarize the clinical evidence for each of these devices and the potential mechanisms for the improvement in patient outcomes in HR-PCI. The IABP use has rapidly declined in recent years due to no evidence of benefit in HR-PCI and cardiogenic shock. The V-A ECMO results in low rates of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) but higher rates of acute kidney injury and increased need for transfusions. In initial studies, Impella resulted in a reduced need for repeat interventions and reduced rates of hypotension, but no benefit in mortality. However, MACCE rates with Impella have gradually declined over the last 10 years, reflecting increased operator experience and technical improvements. Thus, a large, randomized trial is needed to assess the efficacy of Impella in HR-PCI with contemporary standards of care. There is currently no individual parameter that can identify patients who would benefit from MCS use in elective HR-PCI. To address this gap, we propose an algorithm that combines anatomical complexity, comorbidities, and clinical presentation to accurately identify candidates for MCS-assisted HR-PCI.
Long-term survival after surgical treatment for post-infarction mechanical complications: results from the Caution study
Authors: Matteucci Matteo , Ronco Daniele , Kowalewski Mariusz , Massimi Giulio , De Bonis Michele , Formica Francesco , Jiritano Federica , Folliguet Thierry , Bonaros Nikolaos , Sponga Sandro , Suwalski Piotr , De Martino Andrea , Fischlein Theodor , Troise Giovanni , Dato Guglielmo Actis , Serraino Filiberto Giuseppe , Shah Shabir Hussain , Scrofani Roberto , Kalisnik Jurij Matija , Colli Andrea , Russo Claudio Francesco , Ranucci Marco , Pettinari Matteo , Kowalowka Adam , Thielmann Matthias , Meyns Bart , Khouqeer Fareed , Obadia Jean-Francois , Boeken Udo , Simon Caterina , Naito Shiho , Musazzi Andrea , Lorusso Roberto
Published: February 2024

Aims

Mechanical complications (MCs) are rare but potentially fatal sequelae of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Surgery, though challenging, is considered the treatment of choice. The authors sought to study the early and long-term results of patients undergoing surgical treatment for post-AMI MCs.

Methods and results

Patients who underwent surgical treatment for post-infarction MCs between 2001 through 2019 in 27 centres worldwide were retrieved from the database of the CAUTION study. In-hospital and long-term mortality were the primary outcomes. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to determine independent factors associated with overall mortality. The study included 720 patients. The median age was 70.0 [62.0–77.0] years, with a male predominance (64.6%). The most common MC encountered was ventricular septal rupture (VSR) (59.4%). Cardiogenic shock was seen on presentation in 56.1% of patients. In-hospital mortality rate was 37.4%; in more than 50% of cases, the cause of death was low cardiac output syndrome (LCOS). Late mortality occurred in 133 patients, with a median follow-up of 4.4 [1.0–8.6] years. Overall survival at 1, 5, and 10 years was 54.0, 48.1, and 41.0%, respectively. Older age (P < 0.001) and post-operative LCOS (P < 0.001) were independent predictors of overall mortality. For hospital survivors, 10-year survival was 65.7% and was significantly higher for patients with VSR than those with papillary muscle rupture (long-rank P = 0.022).

Conclusion

Contemporary data from a multicentre cohort study show that surgical treatment for post-AMI MCs continues to be associated with high in-hospital mortality rates. However, long-term survival in patients surviving the immediate post-operative period is encouraging.
The politics of death in Nnedi Okorafor’s Africanfuturist Novels
Authors: Adeniyi Ifeoluwa
Published: February 2024

This essay discusses the politics of death in Nnedi Okorafor’s early novels, Who Fears Death and The Book of Phoenix, not least because both novels are linked and underscore the writer’s commitments to necropolitics. Both novels also highlight death worlds founded on genocides and the eradication of minoritized and racialized bodies. I show that Okorafor’s artistic commitments in both works are organized around a critique of the necropolitical conditions of past and contemporary imperial world orders. At the heart of this critique is the Black woman, whom Okorafor positions at the crucial interfaces of alternative future worlds founded on visions of martyrdom and renewal/transfiguration as necessary in the struggle against necropower.
Femurs in patients with hip dysplasia have fundamental shape differences compared with cam femoroacetabular impingement
Authors: Harris Michael D , Gaffney Brecca M.M , Clohisy John C , Pascual-Garrido Cecilia
Published: February 2024

Femoral deformities are common in developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), but decisions about how to treat them are not standardized. Of interest are deformities that may be akin to cam femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). We used three-dimensional and two-dimensional measures to clarify the similarities and differences in proximal femur shape variation among female patients with DDH (n = 68) or cam FAI (n = 60). Three-dimensional measures included femoral head asphericity, as well as shape variation using statistical shape modeling and principal component analysis (PCA). Two-dimensional measures included the α-angle, head–neck offset (HNO) and the neck–shaft angle (NSA). Significant shape variations were captured in the first five PCA modes, with the greatest shared variation between groups being the length from the lesser trochanter to the femoral head and greater trochanter height. Variations unique to DDH were irregularities at different areas of the femoral head, but not at the lateral femoral head–neck junction where variation was strong in FAI. The FAI group also had unique variations in greater trochanter shape. DDH femoral heads were less spherical, as indicated by larger sphere-fitting errors (P < 0.001). Radiographically, the DDH group had significantly smaller α-angles (P < 0.001), larger head–neck offsets (P = 0.02) and larger NSAs (P < 0.001). Both the articular and extra-articular regions of the proximal femur have distinct shape features in DDH and cam FAI that can uniquely affect the biomechanics of each disorder. Accordingly, approaches to addressing each disorder should be unique.
Engaging Ulama in the Promotion of International Humanitarian Law: A Case Study from Mindanao
Authors: Magon Datuan , Earnshaw Dominic
Published: February 2024

In 2006 the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) produced rules of engagement in hostilities for members of its armed wing, the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces, which reference Islamic law and are also compliant with international humanitarian law (IHL). The release of these rules came following engagement with the MILF by both national and international humanitarian organizations. This article examines the role of Islamic scholars in the MILF and how they contributed to the development of the rules of engagement and the dissemination of humanitarian principles and IHL to its fighters. It also examines the support that humanitarian organizations provided to MILF’s Islamic scholars in their work on IHL. The findings show that MILF’s religious scholars played a major role in promoting IHL to the group’s armed wing through a framing of IHL from an Islamic perspective. A major motivation for the MILF to engage its Islamic scholars on IHL was the desire for international legitimacy as it was involved in a peace process with the government of the Philippines.
The Strain and the Clinical Outcome of Clostridioides difficile Infection: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Abou Chakra Claire Nour , Gagnon Anthony , Lapointe Simon , Granger Marie-Félixe , Lévesque Simon , Valiquette Louis
Published: February 2024

Background

The association between bacterial strains and clinical outcomes in Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) has yielded conflicting results across studies. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analyses to assess the impact of these strains.

Methods

Five electronic databases were used to identify studies reporting CDI severity, complications, recurrence, or mortality according to strain type from inception to June 2022. Random effect meta-analyses were conducted to assess outcome proportions and risk ratios (RRs).

Results

A total of 93 studies were included: 44 reported recurrences, 50 reported severity or complications, and 55 reported deaths. Pooled proportions of complications were statistically comparable between NAP1/BI/R027 and R001, R078, and R106. Pooled attributable mortality was 4.8% with a gradation in patients infected with R014/20 (1.7%), R001 (3.8%), R078 (5.3%), and R027 (10.2%). Higher 30-day all-cause mortality was observed in patients infected with R001, R002, R027, and R106 (range, 20%–25%).

NAP1/BI/R027 was associated with several unfavorable outcomes: recurrence 30 days after the end of treatment (pooled RR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.02–3.84); admission to intensive care, colectomy, or CDI-associated death (1.88; 1.09–3.25); and 30-day attributable mortality (1.96; 1.23–3.13). The association between harboring the binary toxin gene and 30-day all-cause mortality did not reach significance (RR, 1.6 [0.9–2.9]; 7 studies).

Conclusions

Numerous studies were excluded due to discrepancies in the definition of the outcomes and the lack of reporting of important covariates. NAP1/BI/R027, the most frequently reported and assessed strain, was associated with unfavorable outcomes. However, there were not sufficient data to reach significant conclusions on other strains.
Detection of the neutral iron line from the supernova remnant W 49 B with Suzaku
Authors: Suzuki Nari , Yamauchi Shigeo , Nobukawa Kumiko K , Nobukawa Masayoshi , Katsuda Satoru
Published: February 2024

Recent studies of supernova remnants (SNRs) have revealed that some SNRs exhibit a neutral iron line emission at 6.4 keV. This line has been proposed to originate from the interaction of high-energy particles formed in the SNR shell with the surrounding cold matter. We searched for the neutral iron line emission in the SNR W 49 B. Significant detection of the 6.4 keV line is found in the north-west region, close to the molecular cloud interacting with the SNR shell. In addition, an excess emission at 8–9 keV, in which Kγ, Kδ, and Kϵ lines of He-like iron exist, is also significantly found in the region where the radio shell is not bright. We discuss the origin of the 6.4 keV line and the excess emission at 8–9 keV.
Monte Carlo calculated photon interaction coefficients for several body tissues
Authors: Sengul Aycan , Bozkurt Ahmet
Published: February 2024

Absorption of energy in body tissues because of radiation interactions may induce harmful outcomes such as cancer and hereditary effects due to a variety of damages in the integrity and activity of the cells. This study presents Monte Carlo calculated $\boldsymbol{\mu} /\boldsymbol{\rho}$, ${\boldsymbol{\mu}}_{\boldsymbol{en}}/\boldsymbol{\rho}$ and ${\boldsymbol{\mu}}_{\boldsymbol{tr}}/\boldsymbol{\rho}$ values of some common tissues and organs found in the human body (namely, adipose tissue, blood, bone-cortical, brain-grey/white matter, breast tissue, eye lens, lung tissue, muscle-skeletal, ovary, soft tissue and testes) as well as water for comparison purposes. The simulation model involves a monoenergetic point source producing a pencil beam where, depending on the parameter under study, particle flux, energy flux or absorbed dose from photon interactions are scored in the range of 10 keV to 20 MeV energy. The simulations were performed using the Monte Carlo package MCNP6.1 and provided $\boldsymbol{\mu} /\boldsymbol{\rho}$, ${\boldsymbol{\mu}}_{\boldsymbol{en}}/\boldsymbol{\rho}$ and ${\boldsymbol{\mu}}_{\boldsymbol{tr}}/\boldsymbol{\rho}$ values. The data produced in this study were compared with theoretical photon attenuation data from the XMUDAT database and demonstrated good agreement. The results, which are based on a simple model geometry and pure elemental compositions, indicate that this approach can be applied to evaluate $\boldsymbol{\mu} /\boldsymbol{\rho}$, ${\boldsymbol{\mu}}_{\boldsymbol{en}}/\boldsymbol{\rho}$ and ${\boldsymbol{\mu}}_{\boldsymbol{tr}}/\boldsymbol{\rho}$ in a broad energy range for any element, compound or mixture.
An overview of genetic manipulation tools in the studies of ciliates, with emphasis on gene knockout, knockdown, and overexpression
Authors: Fu Jinyu , Gao Yunyi , Gao Feng , Sheng Yalan , Al-Farraj Saleh A , Chen Zigui , Wang Chundi
Published: February 2024

Microorganisms have expanded our understanding of biodiversity and exhibit crucial research values. Ciliated protists are a highly differentiated group of eukaryotic microorganisms with exceptional features, such as numerous cilia, dimorphic nuclei, and genome-wide gene rearrangement, that have made them ideal research models for revealing many biological processes. Studies of the ciliate Tetrahymena thermophila have greatly advanced our understanding of RNA self-splicing and enzymatic activity, telomere biology, and the Nobel Prize-winning telomerase mechanisms. Genome rearrangement during the sexual reproduction (conjugation) of ciliates, involving the elimination of ~25–90% of germline DNA, provides an opportunity to study large-scale genome remodelling while also revealing a more thorough mode of transposon repression, i.e. Piwi-interacting small RNA-mediated DNA deletion in the somatic nucleus. Although much progress has been made, research has focused mainly on a few model species that are amenable to gene editing. For other species, although they are more suitable to address some scientific gaps, research cannot be carried out owing to limitations of genetic engineering. Here, we summarize the existing genetic engineering strategies for ciliates, expecting to provide inspiration for the development and optimization of genetic engineering tools for ciliates and other organisms cannot yet be edited genetically.
Late Preterm Antenatal Steroids for Reduction of Neonatal Respiratory Complications
Authors: Yenuberi Hilda , Ross Benjamin , Sasmita Tirkey Richa , Benjamin Santosh Joseph , Rathore Swati , Karuppusami Reka , Lal Aadarsh , Thomas Niranjan , Mathew Jiji Elizabeth
Published: February 2024

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the efficacy of antenatal corticosteroids in reducing neonatal respiratory complications when administered to those at risk of preterm delivery between 34 and 36 6/7 weeks of gestation.

METHODS:

This was a single-center, triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial in southern India enrolling pregnant participants at risk of preterm delivery between 34 and 36 6/7 weeks of gestation. Computer-generated block randomization was used with participants randomized to either one course of intramuscular betamethasone or placebo. The primary outcome was a composite of treatment for respiratory distress in the neonate, defined as need for oxygen or continuous positive airway pressure or mechanical ventilation for at least 2 hours in the first 72 hours of life. Neonatal secondary outcomes were transient tachypnea of the newborn, respiratory distress syndrome, necrotizing enterocolitis, sepsis, hyperbilirubinemia, hypoglycemia, stillbirth, and early neonatal death; maternal secondary outcomes were chorioamnionitis, postpartum hemorrhage, puerperal fever, and length of hospitalization. All analyses were based on intention to treat. A sample size of 1,200 was planned with 80% power to detect a 30% reduction in rates of respiratory distress. After a planned interim analysis, enrollment was stopped for futility.

RESULTS:

From March 2020 to August 2022, 847 participants were recruited, with 423 participants randomized to betamethasone and 424 participants randomized to placebo. There were 22 individuals lost to follow-up. There was no statistically significant difference in the primary outcome (betamethasone 4.9% vs placebo 4.8%, relative risk 1.03, 95% CI, 0.57–1.84, number needed to treat 786). There were no statistically significant differences in secondary neonatal or maternal outcomes.

CONCLUSION:

Betamethasone administered in the late preterm period to those at risk for preterm delivery did not reduce the need for treatment of neonatal respiratory distress.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION:

Clinical Trials Registry of India, CTRI/2019/09/021321.
Postoperative Immobilization Period for Pediatric Supracondylar Fractures: The Shorter the Better?
Authors: Jones Neil John , Zarook Essa , Ayub Anouska , Manoukian Dimitrios , Maizen Claudia , Bijlsma Paulien , Ramachandran Manoj , Firth Gregory
Published: February 2024

Background:

There are now recognized standards of care published by the British and American Orthopaedic Associations which detail key areas of evidence-based recommendations for the treatment of children with displaced supracondylar humerus fractures. Although many aspects of treatment are covered in these recommendations, both the American and British Orthopaedic Associations do not recommend the exact duration of immobilization postoperatively.

Methods:

This study retrospectively compared outcomes of operatively managed supracondylar fractures immobilized postoperatively for short immobilization (SI) defined as 28 days or less, with long immobilization (LI) defined as more than 28 days. The outcomes measured were clinical (deformity, range of motion, and pin site infection) and radiologic (loss of position after the removal of K-wires, Baumann’s angle, anterior humeral line, refracture, and signs of osteomyelitis). Demographic data were recorded to evaluate and ensure satisfactory matching of the 2 groups for analysis.

Results:

The study included 193 pediatric supracondylar fractures over a 4-year period which were treated with manipulation under anesthetic and K-wire fixation. The difference in average time in plaster between the 2 groups was statistically significant (SI: n=27.5 d, SD 1.23; LI: n=43.9 d, SD 15.29, P=0.0001). Data for operative techniques—closed or open reduction (SI: n=66, LI: n=78, P=0.59), and crossed wires (SI: n=37, LI: n=50, P=0.57) between the two groups showed no statistical significance. There was no statistical difference between the groups for the average number of days postoperatively at which wires were taken out (SI: n=28.9 d, SD 5.95, LI: n=30.1 d, SD 5.57, P=0.15), number of pin site infections requiring antibiotic treatment (SI: n=3, LI: n=5, P=0.70), or children from each group who were recorded to have regained full range of motion symmetrical to their contralateral arm (SI: n=79, LI: n=99, P=0.74).

Conclusions:

Our study therefore suggests that shorter immobilization of these patients (SI group) does not yield a higher rate of complications including refracture and malunion.
Repeated Lacrimal Gland Biopsies
Authors: Kaushik Megha , Vahdani Kaveh , Neumann Inga , Magan Tejal , Rose Geoffrey E.
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

To examine the indications for repeated lacrimal gland biopsies, and the rate of detection of a new diagnosis.

Methods:

A single-center, retrospective review of patients who underwent more than 1 lacrimal gland biopsy, either ipsilateral or contralateral, between 2000 and 2022.

Results:

One hundred and twenty-three patients (80 female; 65%) had repeated lacrimal gland biopsy. The commonest diagnosis on initial biopsy was chronic nonspecific dacryoadenitis (NSD) (49/123; 40%). Indications for repeated biopsy were uncertainty in making a histopathological diagnosis (16/123; 13%), poorly-responsive or recurrent ipsilateral disease (61/123; 50%), new or continued/worsening contralateral disease (30 patients; 24%), and planned tumor resection after initial biopsy (16/123; 13%). Of the 40 patients (33%) with a different histopathological diagnosis after repeated lacrimal biopsy, 4 (10%) had lymphoma, initially reported as NSD (4/49 with NSD; 8%), and 7/40 (18%) (14% of the 49 NSD patients) were reclassified as having specific inflammations (including 2 with granulomatous polyangiitis); of the 7 having reclassification as a specific dacryoadenitis, 6/7 had ipsilateral disease failing to respond to primary treatment, and 1/7 had new onset or progression of contralateral disease. All histology after the primary biopsy of 16 patients with lacrimal gland malignancies retained the same tissue diagnosis.

Conclusion:

Repeated biopsy for lacrimal gland disease in this study revealed a diagnosis of malignancy in 20%, including lymphoma in 8% of those initially diagnosed with NSD. There was a 14% rate of diagnostic progression from “non-specific” dacryoadenitis to a more specific inflammatory disease.