bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineer RNA‐Protein Nanowires as Light‐Responsive Biomaterials
Authors: Younas Tayyaba , Liu Chang , Struwe Weston B. , Kukura Philipp , He Lizhong
Published: January 2023

RNA molecules have emerged as increasingly attractive biomaterials with important applications such as RNA interference (RNAi) for cancer treatment and mRNA vaccines against infectious diseases. However, it remains challenging to engineer RNA biomaterials with sophisticated functions such as non‐covalent light‐switching ability. Herein, light‐responsive RNA‐protein nanowires are engineered to have such functions. It first demonstrates that the high affinity of RNA aptamer enables the formation of long RNA‐protein nanowires through designing a dimeric RNA aptamer and an engineered green fluorescence protein (GFP) that contains two TAT‐derived peptides at N‐ and C‐ termini. GFP is then replaced with an optogenetic protein pair system, LOV2 (light–oxygen–voltage) protein and its binding partner ZDK (Z subunit of protein A), to confer blue light‐controlled photo‐switching ability. The light‐responsive nanowires are long (>500 nm) in the dark, but small (20–30 nm) when exposed to light. Importantly, the co‐assembly of this RNA‐protein hybrid biomaterial does not rely on the photochemistry commonly used for light‐responsive biomaterials, such as bond formation, cleavage, and isomerization, and is thus reversible. These RNA‐protein structures can serve as a new class of light‐controlled biocompatible frameworks for incorporating versatile elements such as RNA, DNA, and enzymes.
Hydrogen‐Enhanced Catalytic Conversion of Amorphous Carbon to Graphene for Achieving Superlubricity
Authors: Li Ruiyun , Yang Xing , Ma Ming , Zhang Junyan
Published: January 2023

The solid‐state conversion of amorphous carbon into graphene is extremely difficult, but it can be achieved in the friction experiments that induce macroscale superlubricity. However, the underlying conversion mechanisms remain elusive. Here, the friction experiments with Cu nanoparticles and (non‐hydrogen (H) or H) a‐C in vacuum, show the H‐induced conversion of mechanical to chemical wear, resulting in the a‐C's tribosoftening and nanofragmentating that produce hydrocarbon nanoclusters or molecules. It is such exactly hydrocarbon species that yield graphene at hydrogen‐rich a‐C friction interface, through reaction of them with Cu nanoparticles. In comparison, graphene isn't formed at Cu/non‐H a‐C friction interface. Atomistic simulations reveal the hydrogen‐enhanced tribochemical decomposition of a‐C and demonstrate the energetically favorable graphitization transformation of hydrocarbons on Cu substrates. The findings are of importance to achieve solid‐state transformation between different carbon allotropes and provide a good strategy to synthesize other graphitic encapsulated catalysts with doped elements.
On‐Site Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Paracetamol Analgesic in Non‐Invasively Collected Saliva for Personalized Medicine
Authors: Gomes Nathalia O. , Raymundo‐Pereira Paulo A.
Published: January 2023

Paracetamol or acetaminophen is the main non‐opioid analgesic recommended for mild pain by the World Health Organization (WHO) analgesic ladder. However, the high levels used of paracetamol are associated with the hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity caused by accumulation of toxic metabolites. The sensor is produced on a polyester substrate containing a full electrochemical device with working, auxiliary, and reference electrodes in which, guiding personalized medicine solutions are not reported. Temporal paracetamol profiles in human saliva are performed with the subject taking different amounts of commercial analgesic pills. The variation of saliva paracetamol levels is demonstrated to be interference free from electroactive interfering species and human saliva constituents. In addition, the sensor displays to be useful as a disposable device for the fast detection of paracetamol in untreated raw saliva following pill intake. The maximum concentration (Cmax) and half‐life time (t1/2) for paracetamol are 143.27 µm and 110 min. The results demonstrate the potential of a simple strategy with electrochemical devices for noninvasive personalized therapy toward guiding drug interventions through tracking of active substance, detecting, and correcting insufficiency of absorption to meet individual needs avoiding overdoses, side effects, and intoxication.
In Situ Growth of Iron Sulfide on Fast Charge Transfer V2C‐MXene for Superior Sodium Storage Anodes
Authors: Xiong Zhihao , Shi Haofeng , Zhang Wenyuan , Yan Jingtao , Wu Jun , Wang Chengdeng , Wang Donghua , Wang Jiashuai , Gu Yousong , Chen Fu‐Rong , Yang Yongzhen , Xu Bingshe , Yan Xiaoqin
Published: January 2023

Due to the upstream pressure of lithium resources, low‐cost sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have become the most potential candidates for energy storage systems in the new era. However, anode materials of SIBs have always been a major problem in their development. To address this, V2C/Fe7S8@C composites with hierarchical structures prepared via an in situ synthesis method are proposed here. The 2D V2C‐MXene as the growth substrate for Fe7S8 greatly improves the rate capability of SIBs, and the carbon layer on the surface provides a guarantee for charge–discharge stability. Unexpectedly, the V2C/Fe7S8@C anode achieves satisfactory sodium storage capacity and exceptional rate performance (389.7 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1). The sodium storage mechanism and origin of composites are thoroughly studied via ex situ characterization techniques and first‐principles calculations. Furthermore, the constructed sodium‐ion capacitor assembled with N‐doped porous carbon delivers excellent energy density (135 Wh kg−1) and power density (11 kW kg−1), showing certain practical value. This work provides an advanced system of sodium storage anode materials and broadens the possibility of MXene‐based materials in the energy storage.
Regulation of Released Alkali from Gel Polymer Electrolyte in Quasi‐Solid State Zn–Air Battery
Authors: Li Haihan , Guo Jiaming , Mao Yanqi , Wang Guanbo , Liu Jinlan , Xu Yuncun , Wu Zhiwei , Mei Zhiwei , Li Wenqiong , He Yun , Liang Xiaoguang
Published: January 2023

Gel polymer electrolyte (GPE) in quasi‐solid state Zn–air battery (QSZAB) will release alkali during cycling, resulting in gradual dehydration of GPE, corrosion of Zn electrode, Zn dendrites growth, and therefore inferior performance. Here, hollow Sn microspheres are prepared on Zn substrate by the technique of colloidal self‐assembly. The inner surfaces of hollow Sn microspheres are modified by 2‐hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (hollow Sn‐inner HPβCD) to regulate the released alkali at GPE|anode interface. The hollow Sn‐inner HPβCD can lessen the leakage of released alkali, make stored alkali diffuse back to GPE during the charging process, and mitigate the loss of soluble Zn(OH)42−to suppress Zn dendrites growth. Resultantly, GPE in QSZAB with hollow Sn‐inner HPβCD exhibits a high retention capacity for alkaline solution. The cell also exhibits a long cyclic lifespan of 127 h due to the effective regulation of released alkali, which outperforms QSZAB without hollow Sn‐inner HPβCD by 7.94 times. This work rivets the regulation of released alkali at GPE|anode interface, providing new insight to improve QSZABs’ performance.
Heterointerface and Tensile Strain Effects Synergistically Enhances Overall Water‐Splitting in Ru/RuO2 Aerogels
Authors: Nicole Sui L. D. , Li Yinghao , Xie Wenjie , Wang Guangzhao , Lee Jong‐Min
Published: January 2023

Designing robust electrocatalysts for water‐splitting is essential for sustainable hydrogen generation, yet difficult to accomplish. In this study, a fast and facile two‐step technique to synthesize Ru/RuO2 aerogels for catalyzing overall water‐splitting under alkaline conditions is reported. Benefiting from the synergistic combination of high porosity, heterointerface, and tensile strain effects, the Ru/RuO2 aerogel exhibits low overpotential for oxygen evolution reaction (189 mV) and hydrogen evolution reaction (34 mV) at 10 mA cm−2, surpassing RuO2 (338 mV) and Pt/C (53 mV), respectively. Notably, when the Ru/RuO2 aerogels are applied at the anode and cathode, the resultant water‐splitting cell reflected a low potential of 1.47 V at 10 mA cm−2, exceeding the commercial Pt/C||RuO2 standard (1.63 V). X‐ray adsorption spectroscopy and theoretical studies demonstrate that the heterointerface of Ru/RuO2 optimizes charge redistribution, which reduces the energy barriers for hydrogen and oxygen intermediates, thereby enhancing oxygen and hydrogen evolution reaction kinetics.
Flexible Electronics Based on Organic Semiconductors: from Patterned Assembly to Integrated Applications
Authors: Liu Haoran , Liu Dong , Yang Junchuan , Gao Hanfei , Wu Yuchen
Published: January 2023

Organic flexible electronic devices are at the forefront of the electronics as they possess the potential to bring about a major lifestyle revolution owing to outstanding properties of organic semiconductors, including solution processability, lightweight and flexibility. For the integration of organic flexible electronics, the precise patterning and ordered assembly of organic semiconductors have attracted wide attention and gained rapid developments, which not only reduces the charge crosstalk between adjacent devices, but also enhances device uniformity and reproducibility. This review focuses on recent advances in the design, patterned assembly of organic semiconductors, and flexible electronic devices, especially for flexible organic field‐effect transistors (FOFETs) and their multifunctional applications. First, typical organic semiconductor materials and material design methods are introduced. Based on these organic materials with not only superior mechanical properties but also high carrier mobility, patterned assembly strategies on flexible substrates, including one‐step and two‐step approaches are discussed. Advanced applications of flexible electronic devices based on organic semiconductor patterns are then highlighted. Finally, future challenges and possible directions in the field to motivate the development of the next generation of flexible electronics are proposed.
Hydroxyl‐Binding Energy‐Induced Kinetic Gap Narrowing between Acidic and Alkaline Hydrogen Oxidation Reaction on Intermetallic Ru3Sn7 Catalyst
Authors: Su Lixin , Fan Xinran , Jin Yiming , Cong Hengjiang , Luo Wei
Published: January 2023

Developing highly efficient catalysts toward alkaline hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) and narrowing the kinetic gap between acidic and alkaline electrolytes are of great importance for the practical application of alkaline exchange membrane fuel cell . Herein, ordered Ru3Sn7/C intermetallic compound has been developed for the HOR under alkaline and acidic conditions. The authors demonstrate that the ordered intermetallic Ru3Sn7/C shows much enhanced HOR activity, stability, and CO‐tolerance compared with its disordered RuSn solid solution alloy counterpart. More importantly, the authors find that the kinetic gap of HOR between acidic and alkaline media is significantly narrowed in the as‐synthesized intermetallic Ru3Sn7/C catalysts. Combined experiment results and theoretical calculations, the authors understand that promoted hydroxyl‐binding energy on Ru3Sn7/C derived from the intermetallic‐induced strong electron interaction is responsible for the accelerated alkaline HOR performance and narrowed kinetic gap.
Efficient Charge Transfer and Effective Active Sites in Lead‐Free Halide Double Perovskite S‐Scheme Heterojunctions for Photocatalytic H2 Evolution
Authors: Lv Huijun , Yin Hongfei , Jiao Na , Yuan Chunyu , Weng Suting , Zhou Kailing , Dang Yangyang , Wang Xuefeng , Lu Zhen , Zhang Yongzheng
Published: January 2023

The practical application of lead‐free double perovskite Cs2AgBiBr6 in photocatalytic H2 evolution is still restricted due to the low activity and poor stability. The rational design of lead‐free halide double perovskites heterojunctions with efficient charge transfer and effective active sites is a potential route to achieve the ideal prospect. Herein, in this work an S‐scheme heterojunction of Cs2AgBiBr6 with enriched Br‐vacancies and WO3 nanorods (VBr‐Cs2AgBiBr6/WO3) obtaining excellent visible‐light responsive photocatalytic H2 evolution performance and durable stability is reported. The S‐scheme heterojunction driven by the unaligned Fermi levels of these two semiconductors ensures the efficient charge transfer at the interface, and density functional theory calculations reveal the enriched Br vacancies on Cs2AgBiBr6 (022) surfaces introduced by atom thermal vibration provide effective active sites for hydrogen evolution. The optimized VBr‐Cs2AgBiBr6/WO3 S‐scheme photocatalyst exhibits the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate of 364.89 µmol g−1 h−1 which is 4.9‐fold of bare VBr‐Cs2AgBiBr6 (74.44 µmol g−1 h−1) and presents long‐term stability of 12 h continuous photocatalytic reaction. This work provides deep insights into the photocatalytic mechanism of VBr‐Cs2AgBiBr6/WO3 S‐scheme heterojunctions, which emerges a new strategy in the applications of perovskite‐based photocatalysts.
Theoretical Prediction of Thermoelectric Performance for Layered LaAgOX (X = S, Se) Materials in Consideration of the Four‐Phonon and Multiple Carrier Scattering Processes
Authors: Bai Shulin , Zhang Jingyi , Wu Mengxiu , Luo Dongming , Wan Da , Li Xiaodong , Tang Shuwei
Published: January 2023

Inspired by the experimental achievement of layered LaCuOX (X = S, Se) with superior thermoelectric (TE) performance, the TE properties of Ag‐based isomorphic LaAgOX are systemically investigated by the first‐principles calculation. The LaAgOS and LaAgOSe are direct semiconductors with wide bandgaps of ≈2.50 and ≈2.35 eV. Essential four‐phonon and multiple carrier scattering mechanisms are considered in phonon and electronic transport calculations to improve the accuracy of the figure‐of‐merit (ZT). The p‐type LaAgOX (X = S, Se) shows excellent TE performance on account of the large Seebeck coefficient originated from the band convergency and low thermal conductivity caused by the strong phonon–phonon scattering. Consequently, the optimal ZTs along the out‐of‐plane direction decrease in the order of n‐type LaAgOSe (≈2.88) > p‐type LaAgOSe (≈2.50) > p‐type LaAgOS (≈2.42) > n‐type LaAgOS (≈2.27) at 700 K, and the optimal ZTs of ≈1.16 and ≈1.29 are achieved for p‐type LaAgOS and LaAgOSe at the same temperature. The present work would provide a deep insight into the phonon and electronic transport properties of LaAgOX (X = S, Se), but also could shed light on the way for the rational design of state‐of‐the‐art heteroanionic materials for TE application.
Ready for Read‐Alouds: 10 Practices for Book‐Sharing with Infants and Toddlers
Authors: Vallotton Claire D. , Gardner‐Neblett Nicole , Kim Loria , Harewood Tamesha , Duke Nell K.
Published: January 2023

Experiences with books before age three predict children's motivation to read (Bus et al., 1995), and can support the development of vocabulary, communication, and symbolic skills (Scarborough, 2001). Sharing books with infants and toddlers is different than reading aloud to older children. For example, it is important to attend more closely to infants' eye gaze and to support toddlers to respond with gestures. This article presents 10 research‐based practices for book‐sharing with infants and toddlers to foster love of reading and emergent literacy skills. For each practice, we provide examples with preverbal infants and newly verbal toddlers. We encourage teachers of reading to use these practices in their interactions with infants and toddlers and to use their role as literacy leaders to share the practices with childcare providers, families, and others who work with this age group.
The best colleges for adult learners never stop working to improve
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: January 2023

I'm a farm kid. I grew up in a small town in Nebraska — there were a whopping 1,000 people in my town,” said Jerrid P. Freeman, Ph.D., Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management at Northeastern State University in Oklahoma. “It was one of those things where college was just not on my radar.” Freeman pursued his undergraduate degree at the University of Nebraska at Kearney while playing sports, and came to love the higher education environment, going on to earn his master's and doctorate.
Flock size and structure influence reproductive success in four species of flamingo in 540 captive populations worldwide
Authors: Mooney Andrew , Teare J. Andrew , Staerk Johanna , Smeele Simeon Q. , Rose Paul , Edell R. Harrison , King Catherine E. , Conrad Laurie , Buckley Yvonne M.
Published: January 2023

As global wildlife populations continue to decline, the health and sustainability of ex situ populations in zoos and aquariums have become increasingly important. However, the majority of managed ex situ populations are not meeting sustainability criteria and are not viable in the long term. Historically, ex situ flamingo (Phoenicopteriformes) populations have shown low rates of reproductive success and improvements are needed for long‐term viability. Both flock size and environmental suitability have previously been shown to be important determinants of ex situ flamingo reproductive success in a limited number of sites in some species. Here we combined current and historic globally shared zoological records for four of the six extant species of flamingo (Phoeniconaias minor, Phoenicopterus chilensis, Phoenicopterus roseus, and Phoenicopterus ruber) to analyze how flock size, structure, and climatic variables have influenced reproductive success in ex situ flamingo populations at 540 zoological institutions from 1990 to 2019. Flock size had a strong nonlinear relationship with reproductive success for all species, with flock sizes of 41–100 birds necessary to achieve ca. 50% probability of reproduction. Additionally, an even sex ratio and the introduction of new individuals to a flock both increased ex situ reproductive success in some cases, while climatic variables played a limited role. We demonstrate the conservation management potential from globally shared zoological data and provide species‐specific management recommendations to increase the reproductive success of global ex situ flamingo populations: minimum flock sizes should be increased, and we encourage greater collaboration between individual institutions and regional associations in exchanging birds between flocks.
Prevalence and correlates of perinatal depression
Authors: Al-abri Khalood , Edge Dawn , Armitage Christopher J.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This systematic review of systematic reviews aims to provide the first global picture of the prevalence and correlates of perinatal depression, and to explore the commonalities and discrepancies of the literature.

Methods

Seven databases were searched from inception until April 2022. Full-text screening and data extraction were performed independently by two researchers and the AMSTAR tool was used to assess the methodological quality.

Results

128 systematic reviews were included in the analysis. Mean overall prevalence of perinatal depression, antenatal depression and postnatal depression was 26.3%, 28.5% and 27.6%, respectively. Mean prevalence was significantly higher (27.4%; SD = 12.6) in studies using self-reported measures compared with structured interviews (17.0%, SD = 4.5; d = 1.0) and among potentially vulnerable populations (32.5%; SD = 16.7, e.g. HIV-infected African women) compared to the general population (24.5%; SD = 8.1; d = 0.6). Personal history of mental illness, experiencing stressful life events, lack of social support, lifetime history of abuse, marital conflicts, maternity blues, child care stress, chronic physical health conditions, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, being exposed to second-hand smoke and sleep disturbance were among the major correlates of perinatal depression.

Conclusion

Although the included systematic reviews were all of medium–high quality, improvements in the quality of primary research in this area should be encouraged. The standardisation of perinatal depression assessment, diagnosis and measurement, the implementation of longitudinal designs in studies, inclusions of samples that better represent the population and better control of potentially confounding variables are encouraged.
Modelling and forecasting risk dependence and portfolio VaR for cryptocurrencies
Authors: Cheng Jie
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we investigate the co-dependence and portfolio value-at-risk of cryptocurrencies, with the Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin and Ripple price series from January 2016 to December 2021, covering the crypto crash and pandemic period, using the generalized autoregressive score (GAS) model. We find evidence of strong dependence among the virtual currencies with a dynamic structure. The empirical analysis shows that the GAS model smoothly handles volatility and correlation changes, especially during more volatile periods in the markets. We perform a comprehensive comparison of out-of-sample probabilistic forecasts for a range of financial assets and backtests and the GAS model outperforms the classic DCC (dynamic conditional correlation) GARCH model and provides new insights into multivariate risk measures.
Effect of total knee arthroplasty for valgus knee correction on clinical outcome and patellar position
Authors: Zhou Liang , Dai Xuening , Zhou Zhongyuan , Kong Qian , Duan Guoqing , Zhang Yuanmin
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose was to investigate the effect of different degrees of valgus deformity correction on patellar position and clinical outcome in patients with valgus knees after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed and followed 118 patients with valgus knees. Based on the post-operative hip–knee–ankle (HKA), patients were divided into three groups: neutral (±3°), mild (3–6°), and severe (> 6°). Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), range of motion (ROM), and Knee Society Score (KSS) were used to evaluate post-operative clinical efficacy. Also, the patellar tilt angle (ε-angle), congruence angle (θ-angle), and Insall–Salvati index (ISI) were used to represent the patellar position. Post-operative observation indicators included HKA, angle of the femur (α-angle), tibial angle (β-angle), femoral component flexion angle (γ-angle), and tibial component posterior slope angle (δ-angle).

Results

All patients showed significant improvements in HKA, ROM, WOMAC, and KSS after operation (P < 0.001). Regarding patellar position, the ISI values decreased to varying degrees (P < 0.05). The patellar tilt angle was significantly increased in the severe valgus group compared to that in the mild valgus and neutral groups (P < 0.001). Univariate analysis showed that the degree of post-operative residual valgus was significantly affected by WOMAC, KSS, α-, ε-, and θ-angles.

Conclusion

Minor valgus undercorrection did not affect the short-term outcome after TKA; however, when the residual valgus angle was > 6°, the post-operative scores were significantly reduced. Inadequate valgus correction does not result in significant changes in patellar height but may increase the risk of poor patellar tracking.
Thoracoscopic vs open repair of congenital diaphragmatic hernia after extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: a comparison of intra-operative data
Authors: Budzanowski Annita , Loukogeorgakis Stavros , Mullassery Dhanya , Blackburn Simon , Curry Joe , Ioannou Ioannis , Ali Usman , Cross Kate , Giuliani Stefano , De Coppi Paolo
Published: January 2023

Purpose

ECMO is an escalation treatment for hypoxic respiratory failure in patients with CDH. Open repair has been advocated after ECMO indicating that physiological changes associated to thoracoscopic repair were not well tolerated.

Methods

We have performed a retrospective review of all patients who underwent ECMO prior CDH repair over a 7 year period (2015–2021). Outcome measures were intra-operative Ph, PCO2, PO2 and FiO2 at 30 min, 1 h 30 min, and 2 h 30 min of surgery, operative time and recurrence rate. Data are shown in median (range).

Results

Eleven patients required ECMO prior CDH repair. Six of eleven (55%) were done thoracoscopically (Group A) and five of eleven (45%) via laparotomy (Group B). Two of six (33%) patients (Group A) were converted to a laparotomy, one of six (16%) patient developed a recurrence, and there was no recurrence in Group B. Two of five (40%) patients died within the first 60 days of life, whilst there was no death in Group A. Intra-operative values are shown below.

Conclusion

Whilst this is a preliminary report of a limited number of patients, there is no obvious difference of intra-operative blood gas parameters during surgical repair in patients after ECMO. Thoracoscopic CDH repair may be considered in patients after ECMO.
Long-term outcome of vestibular function and hearing in children with congenital cytomegalovirus infection: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Kokkola Eeva , Niemensivu Riina , Lappalainen Maija , Palomäki Maarit , Nieminen Tea , Boppana Suresh , Saxèn Harri , Puhakka Laura
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Congenital cytomegalovirus infection (cCMV) is the most frequent nonhereditary cause for sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in children. Data on vestibular function in children with cCMV are, however, scarce, although some evidence for cCMV-associated vestibular dysfunction exists. In this prospective cohort study, we evaluated long-term vestibular function and hearing outcomes in a cohort of children with cCMV.

Methods

Participants were 6–7-year-old children with cCMV from a large population-based screening study. Controls were age and gender matched healthy children, who were CMV-negative at birth. Hearing was examined with pure tone audiometry. Definition of hearing loss was pure-tone average > 20 dB. Vestibular function was assessed using the video head impulse test that provides a measure of semicircular canal function. Definition of vestibular dysfunction was lateral semicircular canal gain < 0.75.

Results

Vestibular dysfunction occurred in 7/36 (19.4%) of children with cCMV and in 1/31 (3.2%) of controls (p = 0.060). SNHL was recorded in 4/38 (10.5%) of children with cCMV and in 0/33 of controls (p = 0.118). Hearing loss was unilateral in all cases. In cCMV group, the two children with bilateral vestibular dysfunction also had SNHL, whereas those with unilateral vestibular dysfunction (n = 5) had normal hearing.

Conclusions

In this cohort of children with cCMV identified using newborn screening, vestibular dysfunction was more common than SNHL at 6 years of age. Vestibular dysfunction occurred both in children with and without SNHL. Based on these data, inclusion of vestibular tests in follow-up protocol of cCMV should be considered.
Bariatric surgery reduces sleep apnea in obese patients with obstructive sleep apnea by increasing pharyngeal cross-sectional area during the early postoperative period
Authors: Zhao Yuliang , Li Tao , Zhang Guangyuan , Liang Xiaorong , Wang Yanxia , Kang Jiansheng , Ma Jiangang
Published: January 2023

Objective

Bariatric surgery (BS) is considered one of the most effective treatments for obese individuals with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). However, otolaryngologists have raised concerns about the structural alterations caused by BS on the upper respiratory tract, especially, on the pharyngeal cavity.

Methods

In this study, we recruited 42 individuals who underwent BS at our hospital. They were divided into two groups based on apnea–hypopnea index (AHI): mild group (5 ≤ AHI < 15) and moderate-severe group (AHI ≥ 15). The participants were followed up for 12 months and several indicators, including body mass index (BMI), polysomnography (PSG), and acoustic pharyngometry (APh), were assessed repeatedly before surgery and at 3, 6, and 12 months (m) after surgery.

Results

Participants exhibited significant decreases in BMI (F = 128.1, P = 0.001) and total weight loss (F = 176.7, P < 0.001) after BS. The AHI value among obese patients with mild OSA decreased significantly within three months after surgery (0 day vs. 3 months, P < 0.01), and decreased significantly more than 12 months with moderate-to-severe patients (0 day vs. 3 months, 3 months vs. 6 months, 6 months vs. 12 months, P < 0.01). The therapeutic effect of OSA of the mild group was significantly better compared with that of the moderate-severe group at 6 months (mean rank = 28.13 vs. 14.21, P < 0.001) and 12 m (mean rank = 26.75 vs. 15.52, P = 0.001). The APh results revealed that the pharyngeal volume of the two groups increased significantly between 0 day and 6 months after surgery (P < 0.01). The oropharyngeal junction (OPJ) area and the glottal area were increased significantly between 0 day and 6 m after surgery (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

BS can relieve apnea and OSA symptoms among obese patients with OSA, especially in the early postoperative period. Moreover, OSA severity was closely associated with OPJ and glottal areas, rather than pharyngeal cavity volume.
Central retina plays a decisive role in the suppression of pupillary escape
Authors: Kelbsch Carina , Jendritza Ricarda , Strasser Torsten , Tonagel Felix , Richter Paul , Jung Ronja , Peters Tobias , Wilhelm Helmut , Wilhelm Barbara , Stingl Krunoslav
Published: January 2023

Purpose

To explore the pupil redilation during persistent light exposure (pupillary escape phenomenon) at the macula and periphery with monochromatic light stimuli.

Methods

Forty healthy subjects aged 18–64 years (24 females) were examined by chromatic pupil campimetry (CPC) using red and blue 4-s stimuli of 10° radius at the center and 20°-peripheral locations one per quadrant. One glaucoma patient and one achromatopsia patient served as disease models. For statistical analyses, linear mixed-effects models were performed followed by post hoc t-tests.

Results

A distinct pupillary escape could be demonstrated peripherally (blue 0.099%*s, red 0.153%*s); at the central healthy retina, there was no relevant escape, neither for blue nor red stimulation. Comparing central versus peripheral stimulation revealed highly significant differences in the escape (difference blue 0.100 ± 0.013, red 0.144 ± 0.013, < 0.0001, respectively). In the periphery, the escape was significantly more pronounced for red compared with blue stimulation (difference 0.054 ± 0.013; p = 0.0001). Enhanced pupillary escape outside of the 95% confidence interval of the linear mixed-effects model of the healthy population could be exemplarily shown in a patient with glaucomatous ganglion cell damage. In the achromatopsia example, no relevant escape was found for blue stimulation, but for red stimulation in the periphery in a comparable range to healthy controls.

Conclusion

The results emphasize that an intact inner retinal network of nerve fibers arising from the central macular region is necessary for maintaining pupillary constriction during a bright 4-s light stimulus and preventing increase of pupillary escape. Increasing receptive field sizes towards the periphery on the level of retinal ganglion cells and less input from central 1:1 connections could be one of the driving mechanisms for pupillary escape.
In vivo evaluation of a hyperspectral imaging system for minimally invasive surgery (HSI-MIS)
Authors: Thomaßen Madeleine T. , Köhler Hannes , Pfahl Annekatrin , Stelzner Sigmar , Mehdorn Matthias , Thieme René , Jansen-Winkeln Boris , Gockel Ines , Chalopin Claire , Moulla Yusef
Published: January 2023

Background

Hyperspectral Imaging (HSI) is a reliable and safe imaging method for taking intraoperative perfusion measurements. This is the first study translating intraoperative HSI to an in vivo laparoscopic setting using a CE-certified HSI-system for minimally invasive surgery (HSI-MIS). We aim to compare it to an established HSI-system for open surgery (HSI-Open).

Methods

Intraoperative HSI was done using the HSI-MIS and HSI-Open at the Region of Interest (ROI). 19 patients undergoing gastrointestinal resections were analyzed in this study. The HSI-MIS-acquired images were aligned with those from the HSI-Open, and spectra and parameter images were compared pixel-wise. We calculated the Mean Absolute Error (MAE) for Tissue Oxygen Saturation (StO2), Near-Infrared Perfusion Index (NIR-PI), Tissue Water Index (TWI), and Organ Hemoglobin Index (OHI), as well as the Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) over the whole spectrum. Our analysis of parameters was optimized using partial least squares (PLS) regression. Two experienced surgeons carried out an additional color-change analysis, comparing the ROI images and deciding whether they provided the same (acceptable) or different visual information (rejected).

Results

HSI and subsequent image registration was possible in 19 patients. MAE results for the original calculation were StO2 orig. 17.2% (± 7.7%), NIR-PIorig. 16.0 (± 9.5), TWIorig. 18.1 (± 7.9), OHIorig. 14.4 (± 4.5). For the PLS calculation, they were StO2 PLS 12.6% (± 5.2%), NIR-PIPLS 10.3 (± 6.0), TWIPLS 10.6 (± 5.1), and OHIPLS 11.6 (± 3.0). The RMSE between both systems was 0.14 (± 0.06). In the color-change analysis; both surgeons accepted more images generated using the PLS method.

Conclusion

Intraoperative HSI-MIS is a new technology and holds great potential for future applications in surgery. Parameter deviations are attributable to technical differences and can be reduced by applying improved calculation methods. This study is an important step toward the clinical implementation of HSI for minimally invasive surgery.
Spatiotemporal variability of soil moisture over Ethiopia and its teleconnections with remote and local drivers
Authors: Jimma Tamirat B. , Demissie Teferi , Diro Gulilat T. , Ture Kassahun , Terefe Tadesse , Solomon Dawit
Published: January 2023

Soil moisture is one of the essential climate variables with a potential impact on local climate variability. Despite the importance of soil moisture, studies on soil moisture characteristics in Ethiopia are less documented. In this study, the spatiotemporal variability of Ethiopian soil moisture (SM) has been characterized, and its local and remote influential driving factors are investigated. An empirical orthogonal function (EOF) and KMeans clustering algorithm have been employed to classify the large domain into homogeneous zones. Complex maximum covariance analysis (CMCA) is applied to evaluate the covariability between SM and selected local and remote variables such as rainfall (RF), evapotranspiration (ET), and sea surface temperature (SST). Inter-comparison among SM datasets highlight that the FLDAS dataset better depicts the country’s SM spatial and temporal distribution (i.e., a correlation coefficient $$r=0.95$$

r
=
0.95

, $$rmsd=0.04{\mathrm{m}}^{3}{\mathrm{m}}^{-3}$$

r
m
s
d
=
0.04

m

3

m

-
3

with observations). Results also indicate that regions located in northeastern Ethiopia are drier irrespective of the season (JJAS, MAM, and OND) considered. In contrast, the western part of the country consistently depicted a wetter condition in all seasons. During summer (JJAS), the soil moisture variability is characterized by a strong east–west spatial contrast. The highest and lowest soil moisture values were observed across the country’s central western and eastern parts, respectively. Furthermore, analyses indicate that interannual variability of SM is dictated substantially by RF, though the impact on some regions is weaker. It is also found that ET likely drives the SM in the eastern part of Ethiopia due to a higher atmospheric moisture demand that ultimately invokes changes in surface humidity and rainfall. A composite analysis based on the extreme five wettest and driest SM years revealed a similar spatial distribution of wet SM with positive anomalies of RF across the country and ET over the southern regions. Remote SSTs are also found to have a significant influence on SM distribution. In particular, equatorial central Pacific and western Indian oceans SST anomalies are predominant factors for spatiotemporal SM variations over the country. Major global oceanic indices: Oceanic Nino Index (ONI), Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), Pacific warm pool (PACWARMPOOL), and Pacific Decadal Oscillations (PDO) are found to be closely associated with the SM anomalies in various parts of the country. The associationship between these remote SST anomalies and local soil moisture is via large-scale atmospheric circulations that are linked to regional factors such as precipitation and temperature anomalies.
Choosing among the Variety of proposed Voting Reforms
Authors: Tideman Nicolaus
Published: January 2023

A wide variety of voting reforms are offered for consideration in this special issue. This paper draws connections among them and identifies the beliefs that make particular proposals more attractive than others.
Identification and genetic inheritance of a new source of broad-spectrum extreme resistance to turnip mosaic virus (TuMV) in Brassica rapa
Authors: Walsh Hanna M. , Rönkä Antti , Walsh John A.
Published: January 2023

Brassica rapa line K185 was identified with broad-spectrum extreme resistance to turnip mosaic virus (TuMV). The resistance was effective against TuMV isolates UK 1, CZE 1, GBR 6, POL 1 and CDN 1 (representing major pathotypes 1, 3 and 4 and major resistance-breaking isolates) following mechanical inoculation. F1 plants from a cross between K185 and the rapid-cycling B. rapa ssp. trilocularis line R-o-18 (uniformly susceptible to all the above TuMV isolates), were resistant following challenge with TuMV isolates CDN 1 and GBR 6, indicating the involvement of dominant gene(s). F2 plants derived from a single F1, CDN 1- and GBR 6-resistant plant segregated for resistance to TuMV isolate GBR 6. The segregation ratio of resistant to susceptible plants was consistent with at least two loci controlling resistance and with both loci having dominant alleles for resistance. Other sources of broad-spectrum resistance to TuMV have been shown to involve the recessive allele retr01. The broad-spectrum resistance in K185 clearly involves different alleles to retr01 and provides the opportunity to introgress an alternative form of TuMV resistance into commercial B. rapa lines and thereby reduce the selection pressure for retr01 resistance breaking.
Axisymmetric plumes due to fluid injection through a small source in a wet porous medium
Authors: Browne Catherine A. , Forbes Lawrence K.
Published: January 2023

A small spherical source discharges a fluid into a porous medium that is already fully saturated with another fluid. The injected fluid has higher density than the ambient fluid, and so it forms a plume that moves downward under the effects of gravity. We present a simple asymptotic analysis assuming the two fluids do not mix that gives the width of the plume far from the source as a function of the injected volume flux. A spectral method is then developed for solving the full nonlinear problem in Boussinesq theory. Accurate numerical solutions are presented, which show in detail the evolution of the plume of heavier injected fluid over time. Close agreement with the asymptotic plume shape far from the source is demonstrated at later times.
The Place of Voting in the Ethics of Counterspeech
Authors: Fumagalli Corrado
Published: January 2023

The literature on counterspeech has been debating how institutions and citizens should respond to offensive or dangerous communicative acts. This article identifies a gap in this debate, namely, the lack of attention paid to the individual vote in large-scale democratic elections as an effective act of distancing from candidates who use explicitly derogatory forms of expression to unify and mobilize supporters. In studying the place of voting in the ethics of counterspeech, this article investigates what counterspeakers can expect other counterspeakers to do in large-scale democratic elections framed as a vote for or against hateful representatives. I argue that even in large-scale elections, the individual act of voting, understood as a contribution to increasing the clarity of the indicators of force of a collectivized speech act, can be an effective form of counterspeech. Voting is one of the first forms of counterspeech that must be taken so that other, and perhaps more controversial, actions can stand criticism on moral grounds. For this reason, I also argue that counterspeakers can expect other counterspeakers to contribute to an electoral outcome that, under certain circumstances, can be received as a vote against representatives who use explicit derogatory forms of expression to gain consensus.
Assessment of Health Behaviours and Satisfaction with Life among Catholic Priests in Poland
Authors: Kalita Krzysztof , Leszczak Justyna , Czenczek-Lewandowska Ewelina , Mazur Artur
Published: January 2023

The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between the health behaviours of diocesan priests in Poland and their level of life satisfaction. The specific goal was to determine the factors that most affect their quality of health (internal health control, the influence of others or coincidence) and life satisfaction (positive mental attitude, preventive behaviour, eating habits, health practices). The study involved 250 diocesan priests from the Podkarpackie region who took part in the research by completing an anonymous questionnaire. The questions were mainly based on tools for assessing health behaviours, namely the HBI—health behaviour inventory, MHLC—multidimensional scale of health locus of control and the SWLS—satisfaction with life scale. The general index of health behaviour of clergymen on the HBI scale was 77.12 ± 16.20 (Me = 78), showing a moderate level on the sten scale. On the MHLC health locus of control scale, the respondents believed that their health depended most on internal control: 25.27 ± 5.10 and the influence of others: 23.13 ± 5.57, are of utmost importance for their health. To a lesser extent they believed that health was dependent on chance: 17.60 ± 5.95. The SWLS satisfaction with life index was 22.51 ± 5.43 (Me = 23), also within the moderate range of the sten scale. The factors most closely related to the assessment of life satisfaction were positive mental attitudes and the overall HBI index. The health behaviours of priests measured by the HBI scale and the level of satisfaction with the life of SWLS clergymen are within a moderate range. On the MHLC scale, priests likewise believe that their health depends on themselves and then on others. They are clearly less likely to indicate accidental causes.
Teaching the Modeling of Human–Environment Systems: Acknowledging Complexity with an Agent-Based Model
Authors: Haensel Maria , Schmitt Thomas M. , Bogenreuther Jakob
Published: January 2023

Agent-based modeling is a promising tool for familiarizing students with complex systems as well as programming skills. Human–environment systems, for instance, entail complex interdependencies that need to be considered when modeling these systems. This complexity is often neglected in teaching modeling approaches. For a heterogeneous group of master’s students at a German university, we pre-built an agent-based model. In class, this was used to teach modeling impacts of land use policies and markets on ecosystem services. As part of the course, the students had to perform small research projects with the model in groups of two. This study aims to evaluate how well students could deal with the complexity involved in the model based on their group work outcomes. Chosen indicators were, e.g., the appropriateness of their research goals, the suitability of the methods applied, and how well they acknowledged the limitations. Our study results revealed that teaching complex systems does not need to be done with too simplistic models. Most students, even with little background in modeling and programming, were able to deal with the complex model setup, conduct small research projects, and have a thoughtful discussion on the limitations involved. With adequate theoretical input during lectures, we recommend using models that do not hide the complexity of the systems but foster a realistic simplification of the interactions.
Evaluating the accuracy and usefulness of commercially-available proximal soil mapping services for grassland nutrient management planning and soil health monitoring
Authors: Rhymes Jennifer , Chadwick Dave R. , Williams A. Prysor , Harris Ian M. , Lark R. Murray , Jones David L.
Published: January 2023

Grasslands play an important role in global food security. However, there are increasing pressures to improve the sustainability of ruminant farming. Precision nutrient management tools (e.g., proximal soil sensors for soil mapping) offer opportunities to improve nutrient use efficiency through spatially-variable nutrient application rate maps. Despite little research validating these technologies on grasslands, commercial companies promote these technologies to grassland farmers. In this study, the accuracy of commercial companies offering these services was evaluated by comparing soil pH, P, K, Mg and SOM measurements derived from conventional soil sampling and laboratory analyses to measurements derived from the commercial operators, across a range of soils that are typical found in UK grasslands. Results showed that soil mapping services utilising gamma-ray spectroscopy (GRS) were not sufficiently accurate to predict soil pH, P, K and Mg on grasslands, and subsequently inappropriate for nutrient management planning for variable rate lime and nutrient application. Conversely, both GRS and visible-near infrared spectroscopy (Vis–NIR) accurately predicted between-field SOM variations in grassland soils but not within-field variation. This study emphasises the need for further research to explore the limitations of, and opportunities for, the universal application of these technologies across different soil types and/or land uses before their commercial application. It is therefore highly recommended that commercially-available soil mapping services are subject to certification, similar to centralised soil testing laboratories, to ensure data are accurate for soil management interpretation. The lack of reliability of such systems risks farmers’ confidence in the value of soil mapping, which could severely hinder future adoption of potentially valuable technologies.
Rationalizable behavior in the Hotelling–Downs model of spatial competition
Authors: van Sloun Joep
Published: January 2023

We consider two scenarios of the Hotelling–Downs model of spatial competition. This setting has typically been explored using pure Nash equilibrium, but this paper uses point rationalizability (Bernheim, Econometrica J Economet Soc 52(4):1007–1028, 1984) instead. Pure Nash equilibrium imposes a correct beliefs assumption, which may rule out perfectly reasonable choices in a game. Point rationalizability does not have this correct beliefs assumption, which makes this solution concept more natural and permissive. The first scenario is the original Hotelling–Downs model with an arbitrary number of agents. Eaton and Lipsey (Rev Econ Stud 42(1):27–49, 1975) used pure Nash equilibrium as their solution concept for this setting. They showed that with three agents, there does not exist a pure Nash equilibrium. We characterize the set of point rationalizable choices for any number of agents and show that as the number of agents increases, the set of point rationalizable choices increases as well. In the second scenario, agents have limited attraction intervals (Feldman et al. Variations on the Hotelling–Downs model. In: Thirtieth AAAI Conference on Artificial Intelligence, pp 496–501, 2016). We show that the set of point rationalizable choices does not depend on the number of agents, apart from this number being odd or even. Furthermore, the set of point rationalizable choices shrinks as the attraction interval increases.