bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polyneuropathien im Alter
Authors: Held Melissa , Üçeyler Nurcan
Published: April 2024

Polyneuropathien (PNP) zählen zu den häufigsten neurologischen Erkrankungen des
höheren Lebensalters. Durch Beeinträchtigung der Mobilität, Erhöhung des
Sturzrisikos und neuropathische Schmerzen können sie die Lebensqualität der
Patienten deutlich einschränken. Aufgrund der Vielzahl an möglichen Ursachen und
weil häufig mehrere potenzielle Auslöser vorliegen, ist die Diagnostik gerade in
höherem Lebensalter schwierig und erfordert ein systematisches Vorgehen.
Hautpflege bei pädiatrischer Inkontinenz-assoziierter Dermatitis
Authors: Reick Sibylle , Werner Janne
Published: April 2024

Die Hautpflege der pädiatrischen Inkontinenz-assoziierten Dermatitis fokussiert die Prävention und Therapie der durch Urin und Stuhl verursachten Hautveränderungen. Die Erkrankung ist eine von verschiedenen entzündlichen, irritativen Erkrankungen im Windelbereich und zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass sie durch Urin und Stuhl hervorgerufen wird.
Shoulder and Knee Arthroscopy Access Point: Prospective Comparison of
Sonographic and Palpatory Detection – Which Method is Better for
Novices?
Authors: Weimer Andreas Michael , Weimer Johannes M. , Berthold Svenja , Stein Stephan , Müller Lukas , Buggenhagen Holger , Balser Gerd , Stankov Kay , Sgroi Mirco , Schmidmaier Gerhard , Kloeckner Roman , Schamberger Christian
Published: April 2024

Purpose Arthroscopy is one of the most common interventions in
orthopedics. Hence it is important to train users early in order to ensure the
safest possible identification of access portals (AP). This prospective study
aimed to compare a palpatory (PalpMethod) with a sonographic (SonoMethod) method
for AP location in the shoulder and knee joints.

Materials and
Methods The study included trainee doctors (n=68) attending workshops
(lasting approx. 90 minutes). In these workshops a teaching video initially
demonstrated the PalpMethod and SonoMethod of AP identification. An experienced
operator first marked the access portals on the test subject with a UV pen
(determined ideal point [DIP]). Adhesive film was then affixed to the puncture
regions. Subsequently participants marked on shoulders and knees first the point
determined by palpation, then the point determined by sonography. Analysis
involved DIP visualization with a UV lamp and employed a coordinate system
around the central DIP. In addition, participants completed an evaluation before
and after the workshop.

Results The analysis included 324 measurements
(n=163 shoulders and n= 161 knees). The majority of participants had not
previously attended any courses on manual examination (87.9%) or musculoskeletal
ultrasound (93.9%). Overall, the markings participants made on the shoulder
using the SonoMethod were significantly closer to the DIP than those made by the
PalpMethod (Palp 18.8mm ± 14.5mm vs. Sono 11.2mm ± 7.2mm; p<0.001). On the
knee, however, the markings made by the PalpMethod were significantly closer to
the DIP overall (Palp 8.0mm ± 3.2mm vs. Sono 12.8mm ± 5.2mm; p<0.001).
Conclusion The results show that the SonoMethod produces more accurate markings
on the shoulder, while the PalpMethod is superior for the knee.
Successful Treatment of Massive Pulmonary Embolism in Pregnancy with Catheter-Directed Embolectomy
Authors: Truong Rachel D. , Cheyney Sarah , Vo Mai , Garcia Joel , Desai Neeraj N. , Kropf Jacqueline , Hassanein Hatem
Published: April 2024

Introduction Pulmonary embolism (PE) is associated with approximately 10.5% of maternal deaths in the United States. Despite heightened awareness of its mortality potential, there islittle data available to guide its management in pregnancy. We present the case of a massive PE during gestation successfully treated with catheter-directed embolectomy.

Case Presentation A 37-year-old G2P1001 presented with a syncopal episode preceded by dyspnea and chest pain. Upon presentation, she was hypotensive, tachycardiac, and hypoxic. Imaging showed an occlusive bilateral PE, right heart strain, and a possible intrauterine pregnancy. Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin was positive. She was taken emergently for catheter-directed embolectomy. Her condition immediately improved afterward. Postprocedure pelvic ultrasound confirmed a viable intrauterine pregnancy at 10 weeks gestation. She was discharged with therapeutic enoxaparin and gave birth to a healthy infant at 38 weeks gestation.

Conclusion Despite being the gold standard for PE treatment in nonpregnant adults, systemic thrombolysis is relatively contraindicated in pregnancy due to concern for maternal or fetal hemorrhage. Surgical or catheter-based thrombectomies are rarely recommended. Limited alternative options force their consideration, particularly in a hemodynamically unstable patient. Catheter-directed embolectomy can possibly bypass such complications. Our case exemplifies the consideration of catheter-directed embolectomy as the initial treatment modality of a hemodynamically unstable gestational PE.
Aeromonas hydrophila Infection following Leech Therapy for the Treatment of Nipple–Areola Complex Congestion after Breast Reduction: A Case Report
Authors: Torresetti Matteo , Peltristo Benedetta , Taddei Francesco Mauro Junior , Di Benedetto Giovanni
Published: April 2024

Several strategies for the management of venous congestion of the nipple–areola complex (NAC) after reduction mammaplasty have been proposed. Among these, hirudotherapy represents an ancient but still effective method, even though the risk of infections related to leeches should be considered. We report a peculiar case of breast infection and sepsis after leech therapy in a patient who underwent a reduction mammaplasty. A prompt surgical debridement of the wounds and necrotic tissues associated with targeted antibiotic therapy led to a fast improvement of clinical conditions, and partial preservation of the NAC was obtained. Accurate knowledge of the clinical presentation of soft tissue infections related to leeching allows for an early diagnosis and would serve as a warning for surgeons who approach such breast cosmetic procedures.
Speech Task Force and Quality of Life after Surgery in Children with Cleft Lip and Palate: Limitation of Professionals
Authors: Prathanee Benjamas , Thanawirattananit Panida , Surit Phrutthinun , Mitkitti Ratchanee , Makarabhirom Kalyanee
Published: April 2024

Background Shortage of speech and language therapists results in lack of speech services. The aims of this study were to find the effectiveness of a combination speech therapy model at Level IV: General speech and language pathologist (GSLP) and Level V: Specific speech and language pathologist (SSLP) in reduction of the number of articulation errors and promotion the quality of life (QoL) for children with cleft palate with or without cleft lip (CP ± L).

Methods Fifteen children with CP ± L, aged 4 years 1 month to 10 years 9 months (median = 76 months; minimum:maximum = 49:129 months) were enrolled in this study. Pre- and post-assessment included oral peripheral examination; articulation tests via Articulation Screening Test, Thai Universal Parameters of Speech Outcomes for People with Cleft Palate, Hearing Evaluation, The World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief_Thai (WHOQOL-BRIEF-THAI) version questionnaire for QoL were performed. Speech therapy included a 3-day intensive speech camp by SSLP, five 30-minute speech therapy sessions by a GSLP, and five 1-day follow-up speech camps by SSLP that provided four 45-minute speech therapy sessions for each child.

Results Post-articulation revealed statistically significant reduction of the numbers of articulation errors at word, sentence, and screening levels (median difference [MD] = 3, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2–5; MD = 6, 95% CI = 4.5–8; MD = 2.25, 95% CI = 1.5–3, respectively) and improvement of QoL.

Conclusion A speech task force consisting of a combination of Level IV: GSLP and Level V: SSLP could significantly reduce the number of articulation errors and promote QoL.
Predicting Nipple Necrosis with a “Lights-on” Indocyanine Green Imaging System: A Report of Two Patients
Authors: Shaffrey Ellen C. , Moura Steven P. , Jupitz Sydney , Seets Trevor , Kawahara Tisha , Uselmann Adam , Lin Christie , Poore Samuel O.
Published: April 2024

Nipple–areolar complex (NAC) necrosis is a devastating complication in nipple-sparing mastectomies (NSMs) that significantly impacts patient's quality of life. The use of fluorescence angiography for intraoperative assessment of mastectomy skin flap perfusion in NSM has been successfully described and can be utilized to help guide surgical decision-making. Recently, a novel fluorescence-guided surgical imager was developed, OnLume Avata System (OnLume Surgical, Madison, WI), which provides intraoperative evaluation of vascular perfusion in ambient light. In this case report, we describe the use of OnLume fluorescence-guided surgery technology to help aid in clinical decision-making for two breast reconstruction cases with concern for intraoperative nipple hypoperfusion.
Double-Filtration Plasmapheresis and High-Dose Intravenous Immunoglobulin Therapy in a Case of Anti-M Alloimmunization
Authors: Yasuda Shun , Ono-Okutsu Miho , Fukuda Toma , Kyozuka Hyo , Fujimori Keiya
Published: April 2024

Hemolytic disease is a common cause of fetal morbidity and mortality. The anti-M blood cell alloantibodies are one of the most severe causes of fetal anemia and intrauterine death. Since no standard treatment method has been established for pregnant women, the management of this pathology is through conventional methods used for treating Rh blood-type alloimmunization. For the first time, we report a unique case wherein a pregnant woman who had intrauterine fetal death in two previous pregnancies with very low titers of anti-M antibodies had negative effects during very early pregnancy, which were successfully managed in her third pregnancy with a novel protocol. We aggressively managed the blood type (anti-M antibody) and blood platelet incompatibilities (anti-HPA-4b antibody) through combination therapy twice a week (46 cycles between 12 and 34 weeks) of double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) and high-dose γ-globulin (20–40 g/wk). An elective cesarean section was performed at 34 weeks, and a healthy neonate was born without detection of alloantibodies in the umbilical cord blood. Our report suggests that the combination of DFPP and intravenous immunoglobulin should be considered for the treatment of anti-M alloimmunization in pregnant women.
Assessing the Feasibility of a Two-Cohort Design to Assess the Potential of Homeopathic Medicinal Products to Reduce Antimicrobial Resistance in Turkeys (The HOMAMR Project)—Study Protocol
Authors: Baur-Bernhardt Silvia , Käsbohrer Annemarie , Doherr Marcus Georg , Meemken Diana , Sonnenschein-Swanson Lena , Stetina Birgit Ursula , Sommer Mary-Ann , Weiermayer Petra
Published: April 2024

Background Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious public health concern worldwide. The European Union requires a reduction in the use of antibiotics by 50% by 2030, with separate regulations on organic production that give preference to homeopathy and phytotherapy in organic farms before the use of conventional medicines (including antibiotics). We have therefore designed a two-phased project whose overarching aim is to investigate the potential role of homeopathic medicinal products (HMPs) in combating AMR in turkeys (the HOMAMR project): a two-cohort feasibility study using turkey-farm data that have been collected and analyzed retrospectively, followed by a prospective two-cohort study in turkey farms that would examine the impact of HMPs on changing antibiotic use.

Objective The objective of this paper is to describe the protocol for the first phase of HOMAMR, which is a study under field conditions to assess the feasibility of collecting data retrospectively about turkeys that have been managed conventionally only or with HMPs.

Methods Surveys performed on farms in Germany and Austria, including interviews with consenting farmers, will determine the feasibility of comparing retrospectively gathered data on antibiotic use and performance/production data in two cohorts of turkeys: (1) homeopathic treatment with conventional care (antibiotics) added if necessary or (2) conventional care (antibiotics) only. Co-primary outcomes to be studied are the amount of antimicrobial use and production period-related mortality. In addition, other production/performance parameters will be compared between the two treated cohorts.

Conclusion To our knowledge, this is the first feasibility study on the treatment of turkeys using homeopathy, and whose retrospectively obtained data will inform a prospective study that would examine the impact of HMPs on antibiotic use in commercial turkey raising, fattening and breeding production.
Clinical Study of 162 Cases of Peritonsillar Abscess Diagnosed by Contrast-Enhanced Computed Tomography
Authors: Saiki Tadahiko , Ogawa Teruhiro , Haruna Takenori , Kuroda Kazuaki
Published: April 2024

In this retrospective clinical study of peritonsillar abscesses, we reviewed the data of 162 patients (116 males and 46 females) with peritonsillar abscess aged 8 to 86 years (mean age, 37.0 years) who had been diagnosed by contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT), hospitalized, and treated for the abscess between January 2017 and December 2022. The abscess occurred on the left side in 72 (44.4%) patients, on the right side in 80 (49.4%) patients, and bilaterally in 10 (6.2%) patients. The abscess was of the superior oval type on 85 (49.4%) sides, the superior cap type on 41 (23.8%) sides, the inferior oval type on 25 (14.5%) sides, and the inferior cap type on 21 (12.2%) sides. Among 111 patients, bacteriological examination of the abscess fluid for the causative bacteria yielded 78 causative strains, including 24 strains of aerobic bacteria, predominantly Streptococcus pyogenes (51.6%), and 47 strains of anaerobic bacteria; the remainder were mixed bacterial strains. Bacterial resistance rates to antibiotics were as follows: 5.8% for piperacillin, 3.4% for ceftriaxone, 2.6% for meropenem, 11.5% for clindamycin, 28.6% for levofloxacin, and 15.4% for minocycline. Of the 162 patients, 83 (48.3%) were treated by incision, 25 (14.5%) by puncture, 62 (36.0%) with antibiotics, and 2 (1.2%) via abscess tonsillectomy. The most frequently used antibiotics (87.2% cases) were ampicillin/sulbactam combined with clindamycin and/or dexamethasone. The peritonsillar abscess recurred in 14 (8.6%) patients, and the recurrence occurred within 3 months of the initial onset in 8 (57.1%) of these patients. In conclusion, contrast-enhanced CT should be performed to accurately diagnose the location, size, and shape of a peritonsillar abscess and select the optimal treatment.
The Effect of the Method of Canal Flare Index Calculation on Femoral Classification in Dogs: An Ex Vivo Study
Authors: Galetti Beatriz Maia , Andrade Caroline Ribeiro , Minto Bruno Watanabe , Dias Luís Gustavo Gosuen Gonçalves , Alcântara Brenda Mendonça , Hespanha Ana Carolina Valentim , Moi Tryssia Scalon Magalhães , Goes Letícia Santos
Published: April 2024

Objectives The aim of this study was to compare canal flare index (CFI) values obtained by different intracortical widths in the lesser trochanter and to evaluate their influence on femoral classification.

Methods Femur radiographic images were analysed by three evaluators that calculated the CFI using three different points in the lesser trochanter: proximal, midpoint, and distal.

Results There was no interobserver influence, but there was a difference in the CFI value and femoral classification according to the calculation method. The proximal region presents higher CFI values and only 4% of ‘Stovepipe’ femurs, while the distal region presents lower CFI values and 46% of ‘Stovepipe’ femurs.

Clinical Significance The variation in level of measurement can significantly alter femoral classification, which must be considered when the CFI is used in the surgical planning of total hip arthroplasty.
Pediatric Burn Teams: Moving from Multidisciplinary to Transdisciplinary
Authors: Romanowski Kathleen S.
Published: April 2024

Pediatric burn care has improved to the point where even patients with massive burns have a reasonable chance of survival. An important component of this success is the pediatric multidisciplinary burn team. The pediatric burn team is made up of all the disciplines that are required to provide optimal care of the patient as well as their family. The pediatric burn team in its initial iteration was multidisciplinary, with each discipline focusing on their own area without much overlap. However, over time the burn team has become more cooperative and interdisciplinary leading to improved outcomes for children with burn injuries. Ultimately, pediatric burn teams may be able to function in a transdisciplinary manner which would potentially allow for even more innovation in the care of burn patients.
Initial Pediatric Burn Management: A Practical Guide
Authors: Palmieri Tina L.
Published: April 2024

Children have an imperative to explore their environment to grow and develop, which puts them at risk for sustaining burn injury. Burn injury remains the third leading cause of injury-related death worldwide. Plastic surgeons, as experts in the evaluation and management of cutaneous injuries, are frequently called upon to evaluate and treat children with burn injuries. This article focuses on the unique physiologic aspects of children and how they impact initial evaluation and management of burn injury. Children are not “little adults,” and they have different airway, circulatory, and cutaneous systems. Understanding the signs of potential child abuse is important to avoid further child harm. Finally, recognition of the criteria for referral to a pediatric burn center is important to optimize both short- and long-term outcomes for patients and families.
Inhalation Injury
Authors: Erickson Michael J. , Enkhbaatar Perenlei , Lee Jong O.
Published: April 2024

Inhalation injury is a critical component of thermal injury that can significantly increase mortality in burn survivors. This poses significant challenges to managing these patients and profoundly impacts patient outcomes. This comprehensive literature review delves into the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, classification, management, and outcomes of inhalation injury with burns.
Critical Care of the Pediatric Burn Patient
Authors: Naber Catherine , Sheridan Robert
Published: April 2024

Life-saving pediatric burn care is often initiated in hospitals that are not designated as a pediatric burn center. Therefore, familiarity with critical care of pediatric burn patients is crucial for physicians working in all healthcare settings equipped to care for children. Management of airway, mechanical ventilation, preservation of ideal circulatory status, and establishment of vascular access in pediatric burn patients requires many unique considerations. This article aims to summarize important principles of critical care of children with significant burn injuries for review by physicians and surgeons working in hospitals designated as a pediatric burn center and those that stabilize these patients prior to referral.
Update on Hypermetabolism in Pediatric Burn Patients
Authors: Layon Sarah A. , Williams Austin D. , Parham Matthew J. , Lee Jong O.
Published: April 2024

Despite advancements in pediatric burn care, the profound hypermetabolic response associated with severe burns remains a multifaceted challenge throughout the continuum of care. Understanding the various physiologic disturbances that constitute hypermetabolism is crucial for a thorough evaluation and for implementing appropriate surgical and nonsurgical interventions. In this article, we describe the pathophysiology and treatment of hypermetabolism in pediatric burn patients with a focus on reducing resting energy requirements, minimizing infection, and optimizing nutrition for patients undergoing frequent surgical intervention.
Is There a Safe Alcohol Consumption Limit for the General Population and in Patients with Liver Disease?
Authors: Romero-Gómez Manuel , Arab Juan Pablo , Oliveira Claudia P. , Hernández María , Arrese Marco , Cortez-Pinto Helena , Bataller Ramón
Published: April 2024

Excessive alcohol consumption represents an important burden for health systems worldwide and is a major cause of liver- and cancer-related deaths. Alcohol consumption is mostly assessed by self-report that often underestimates the amount of drinking. While alcohol use disorders identification test - version C is the most widely used test for alcohol use screening, in patients with liver disease the use of alcohol biomarker could help an objective assessment. The amount of alcohol that leads to significant liver disease depends on gender, genetic background, and coexistence of comorbidities (i.e., metabolic syndrome factors). All patients with alcohol-associated liver disease are recommended to follow complete abstinence and they should be treated within multidisciplinary teams. Abstinence slows down and even reverses the progression of liver fibrosis and can help recompensate patients with complicated cirrhosis. Whether there is a safe amount of alcohol in the general population is a matter of intense debate. Large epidemiological studies showed that the safe amount of alcohol to avoid overall health-related risks is lower than expected even in the general population. Even one drink per day can increase cancer-related death. In patients with any kind of chronic liver disease, especially in those with metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease, no alcohol intake is recommended. This review article discusses the current evidence supporting the deleterious effects of small-to-moderate amounts of alcohol in the general population and in patients with underlying chronic liver disease.
Investigating the fractional wave function and the impact of topological defects with anisotropic plasma on the dissociation of bottomonium in the fractional non-relativistic quark model
Authors: Abu-Shady M. , Ahmad Hijaz , Alotaibi Hammad , Ali Ahmed Refaie
Published: April 2024

Incorporating a topological defect and anisotropic plasma, this work used the generalized fractional of the Nikiforov–Uvarov technique to solve the fractional-radial Schrödinger equation in the longitudinal-transverse plane. The study produced wave functions and energy eigenvalues in their fractional forms. The results showed that the presence of an anisotropic plasma and a topological defect increases the dissociation energy of bottomonium. Furthermore, regardless of whether the fractional or classical models are taken into account, it was shown that the effect of temperature on the dissociation energy is stronger than the effect of baryonic chemical potential. In addition, the dissociation energy of bottomonium is significantly larger at lower chemical potential levels. Last but not least, the energy of bottomonium is only little influenced by magnetic auxiliaries.
Optimization of upstream particle concentration from flow using AC electro-osmosis and dielectrophoresis
Authors: Smith de Diego Africa , Griffiths Oreoluwa V. , Johnson Matthew P. , de Montis Marco , Hughes Michael Pycraft
Published: April 2024

There are many applications where upstream sample processing is required to concentrate dispersed particles in flow; this may be to increase the concentration (e.g., to enhance biosensor accuracy) or to decrease it (e.g., by removing contaminants from flow). The AC electrokinetic phenomenon, dielectrophoresis (DEP), has been used widely for particle trapping for flow, but the magnitude of the force drops reduces rapidly with distance from electrode edges, so that nm-scale particles such as viruses and bacteria are only trapped when near the electrode surface. This limits the usable flow rate in the device and can render the final device unusable for practical applications. Conversely, another electrokinetic phenomenon, AC electro-osmosis (ACEO), can be used to move particles to electrode surfaces but is unable to trap them from flow, limiting their ability for sample cleanup or trap-and-purge concentration. In this paper, we describe the optimization of ACEO electrodes aligned parallel to pressure-driven flow as a precursor/preconditioner to capture particles from a flow stream and concentrate them adjacent to the channel wall to enhance DEP capture. This is shown to be effective at flow rates of up to 0.84 ml min−1. Furthermore, the analysis of the 3D flow structure in the ACEO device by both simulation and confocal microscopy suggests that while the system offers significant benefits, the flow structure in the volume near the channel lid is such that while substantial trapping can occur, particles in this part of the chamber cannot be trapped, independent of the chamber height.
FP-LAPW study of structural, magnetic, electronic, elastic, and thermoelectric properties of CoCrS Half-Heusler compound
Authors: AlShaikh Mohammad Noorhan F. , Abu-Jafar Mohammed S. , Asad Jihad H. , Farout Mahmoud , Bouhemadou A. , Mousa Ahmad A. , Khenata R. , Erum Nazia , Chik Abdullah
Published: April 2024

The present article has utilized the WIEN2k computational code to examine the structural, elastic, electronic, magnetic, thermoelectric, and dynamic aspects of the CoCrS Half-Heusler (HH) compound. In this work, calculations have been performed by utilizing the full-potential linearized augmented plane wave method using density functional theory. The electronic bandgap was better interpreted by using the modified Becke–Johnson exchange–correlation functional. We evaluated various electronic properties of the CoCrS HH compound, including band structure plots and density of states. Furthermore, we examined the magnetic characteristics through the computation of magnetic moments and the examination of the spin-polarized electronic state behavior. We also determined the elastic properties of the CoCrS HH compound. These properties, which include stiffness, resilience, and general stability, provide important information about how the material responds to mechanical deformation. Moreover, we explored the electronic structure and found that type 5 of CoCrS exhibits a metallic behavior. In addition, we examined the compound’s thermoelectric properties. Finally, the dynamical properties indicate that type 5 of CoCrS is dynamically stable.
Optimal waveguide structure for low-threshold InGaN/GaN-based photonic-crystal surface-emitting lasers
Authors: Hsieh Wen-Hsuan , Huang Duan-Hsin , Chen Tien-Chiu , Chang Po-Yang , Lu Tien-Chang , Huang Chia-Yen
Published: April 2024

We analyzed the optimal waveguide structure of two types of InGaN-based photonic crystal surface-emitting lasers (PCSELs) to suppress the coupling with leaky modes via mode simulations. To minimize the threshold material gain (gth), we calculated the confinement factor and quality factor of PCSELs with varying waveguide layer thicknesses in the separate confinement heterostructure (SCH) layer. The optical mode intensity profile revealed the coupling between the fundamental mode of SCH and parasitic leaky modes in the cladding layer or substrate as the primary root cause of the low-quality factor and high threshold gain of PCSELs. The asymmetric nature of the SCH structure yielded the optimal waveguide structure to be dependent on the position of the air holes. With a proper waveguide thickness and air hole depth, the optimized threshold modal gain of PCSELs with the n-side air holes can be less than 30 cm−1.
Comparative study of metallic foil friction stir welded and conventional friction stir welded AZ61 Mg alloy butt joints: Biomedical and engineering applications
Authors: Sidhu Ramandeep Singh , Farwaha Harnam Singh , Kumar Raman , Bains Pardeep Singh , Prakash Chander , Kumar Raman , Chowdhury Sohini , Chan Choon Kit
Published: April 2024

Metallic Foil Friction Stir Welding (MFFSW) was newly developed from the Friction Stir Welding (FSW) technique. Magnesium (Mg) alloys were the most trending alloys in the aerospace, automobile, and biomedical industries. This study aims to investigate the variation in mechanical, corrosive, microstructural, and fractographic properties of MFFSW as a process innovation when compared with FSW. The metallic foil of pure manganese (Mn) with a thickness of 500 μm was inserted between two AZ61 Mg alloys. The tensile strength, impact strength, and hardness were noted as mechanical properties of the output. Potentiodynamic corrosion tests were performed to reveal the corrosion properties. An optical microscope was used to examine a distinct transverse section of the weld. Fractography tests with scanning electron microscopic analysis were conducted on destructive tensile specimens. The ultimate tensile strength, impact energy, yield strength, and microhardness increased to 16%, 32%, 12%, and 19.17%, respectively, compared to FSW. MMFSW shows a lower elongation of up to 33% than FSW. MMFSW (9.61 mm/A) shows a lower corrosion rate than FSW (11.02 mm/A), which employs improved corrosion properties. Optical microscopy images of the stir zone in both MFFSW and FSW revealed that adding a Mn alloying element improved grain growth uniformity and eliminated unexpected grain growth patterns. Hence, the experiment’s conclusion shows that MFFSW has the edge over FSW for mechanical and corrosion properties. Thus, the Mn strip improves the properties of MFFSW.
Bandgap engineering and enhanced optical properties of Hf3X2O2 (X = N, P, As) novel 2D MXene structures using first-principles study
Authors: Rahman S. M. Mahbubur , Hasan Khan Md. Sakib , Islam Md. Rafiqul
Published: April 2024

Two-dimensional (2D) MXenes, having comparable transport properties like graphene and a wide spectrum application, are often limited to being used in optoelectronics due to metallic bandgap. Here, by employing density functional theory we report the bandgap engineering and tuning optoelectronic properties through modulating the anions of novel 2D spinel Hf3X2O2 (X = N, P and As) MXenes structures and show that the material class can be among the few semiconducting MXenes. Phonon spectra and cohesive energies confirm that these structures are dynamically stable and chemically exothermic. Modulating anions X = N, P, and As in Hf3X2O2, the electronic bandgaps are found ∼0.46 eV for N, metallic for P, and ∼48 meV for As atoms, suggesting the semiconducting, metallic, and semi-metallic MXenes. The biaxial strains are incorporated to tune the features: In the Hf3N2O2 structure, the bandgap is increased with both compressive and tensile strains, while for the Hf3As2O2 structure, the gap decreased at the GGA-PBE level. For Hf3P2O2 structures, the bandgaps are all metallic irrespective of pristine or biaxial strain. Spin–orbit coupling SOC+GGA reveals that Hf3N2O2 is highly spin responsive while Hf3As2O2 shows semi-metal-to-metallic bandgap transition for pristine as well as biaxial strained conditions. From optical properties analysis, optical absorptions are found located in the visible spectral regions that are also highly receptive to biaxial strains. These properties we have unleashed for the novel Hf3X2O2 (X = N, P, As) semiconducting MXene, thus, show the potentiality of the utilization of the material class in nanoelectronics and optoelectronics applications.
Gaps in gender reporting in National Reports of Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (2021–2022)
Authors: Whitacre James C.
Published: April 2024

Context The Ramsar Convention is the world’s premier environmental treaty for wetlands. This perspective evaluates gender reporting in Ramsar Convention National Reports and compliance with Gender and Wetlands Resolution XIII.18. A total of 71.8% (n = 42) of the sampled nation reports (n = 133) did not submit National Reports. Zero nations provided statistics on equitable pay or pay gaps by gender. In the sampled reports, only 10 nations submitted sex-disaggregated data. Further, only 7.5% (n = 123) of the sampled National Reports (n = 133) provided sex-disaggregated gender data relevant to the Ramsar Convention. Fifteen National Reports deleted the question on gender (Section H) on from their report entirely, including Denmark and Germany. With evidence drawn from the submitted National Reports, this perspective provides concrete empirical suggestions for improving gender reporting in the future. Gender initiatives, including Resolution XIII.18 and the related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have improved transparent gender reporting in the Ramsar Convention National Reports to a degree. However, on the basis of this review, there is room for improvement in national reporting. Methods National Reports from 2021 to 2022 were reviewed for all instances of ‘gender’ and then evaluated for national replies to Section H, focused on gender. Key results Five years after Resolution XIII.18, there is still a need for system-wide improvements in gender reporting, including sex-disaggregated data, and equity for women (cis and trans) for the Ramsar Convention to become compliant with Resolution XIII.18. Complying with Resolution XIII.18 is one concrete, global and measurable way for wetland science and policy to mainstream gender. Conclusions No nation has prepared a comprehensive answer to Section H on gender and wetland policy and science, as defined below; instead, nations have submitted discrete elements. The analysis of each nation’s answers showed essential elements for a comprehensive answer. In the next 5 years of gender reporting, nations have the option to learn from the past and strive to comply with Resolution XIII.18 and provide transparent sex-disaggregated data on National Heads, community stakeholders, site interpreters, site managers and equitable salary data.
Species-resolved, single-cell respiration rates reveal dominance of sulfate reduction in a deep continental subsurface ecosystem
Authors: Lindsay Melody R. , D’Angelo Timothy , Munson-McGee Jacob H. , Saidi-Mehrabad Alireza , Devlin Molly , McGonigle Julia , Goodell Elizabeth , Herring Melissa , Lubelczyk Laura C. , Mascena Corianna , Brown Julia M. , Gavelis Greg , Liu Jiarui , Yousavich D. J. , Hamilton-Brehm Scott D. , Hedlund Brian P. , Lang Susan , Treude Tina , Poulton Nicole J. , Stepanauskas Ramunas , Moser Duane P. , Emerson David , Orcutt Beth N.
Published: April 2024

Rates of microbial processes are fundamental to understanding the significance of microbial impacts on environmental chemical cycling. However, it is often difficult to quantify rates or to link processes to specific taxa or individual cells, especially in environments where there are few cultured representatives with known physiology. Here, we describe the use of the redox-enzyme-sensitive molecular probe RedoxSensor™ Green to measure rates of anaerobic electron transfer physiology (i.e., sulfate reduction and methanogenesis) in individual cells and link those measurements to genomic sequencing of the same single cells. We used this method to investigate microbial activity in hot, anoxic, low-biomass (~10
3
cells mL
−1
) groundwater of the Death Valley Regional Flow System, California. Combining this method with electron donor amendment experiments and metatranscriptomics confirmed that the abundant spore formers including
Candidatus
Desulforudis audaxviator were actively reducing sulfate in this environment, most likely with acetate and hydrogen as electron donors. Using this approach, we measured environmental sulfate reduction rates at 0.14 to 26.9 fmol cell
−1
h
−1
. Scaled to volume, this equates to a bulk environmental rate of ~10
3
pmol sulfate L
−1
d
−1
, similar to potential rates determined with radiotracer methods. Despite methane in the system, there was no evidence for active microbial methanogenesis at the time of sampling. Overall, this method is a powerful tool for estimating species-resolved, single-cell rates of anaerobic metabolism in low-biomass environments while simultaneously linking genomes to phenomes at the single-cell level. We reveal active elemental cycling conducted by several species, with a large portion attributable to
Ca.
Desulforudis audaxviator.
Healthcare interpreters X, Y, Z
Authors: Monzó-Nebot Esther , Álvarez-Álvarez Cristina R.
Published: April 2024

This study explores how differences between generations X (people born from 1965 to 1980), Y (1980s and 1990s),
and Z (mid-90s to early 2000s) have an impact on healthcare interpreters’ job satisfaction. Based on self-determination theory
(SDT), the paper argues that the degree to which a work environment nurtures interpreters’ feelings of competence, connectedness,
and autonomy can determine how motivated they feel, resulting in different degrees of job satisfaction. Stressing the organismic
component in SDT, the paper further hypothesizes that the motivation in healthcare interpreting is mediated by interpreters’
values and that these vary across generations. An exploratory and qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews is
conducted with 9 interpreters (3 from each generational group) who are working or have worked for the same hospital group. The
differences in motivational factors and satisfaction are explored and implications for the ability of healthcare interpreting to
retain the different generations are discussed.
Revising a literary translation for publication
Authors: Borg Claudine
Published: April 2024

Despite the surge of interest in translation revision and its ubiquitousness in translation processes, minimal
scholarly research has been carried out into the revision of literary translations (Koponen
et al. 2021, 10). This article responds to calls in the literature for empirical studies examining the creation of
actual published translations. It aims to partially address this gap by reporting on the processes and practices occurring during
the revision of my Maltese translation of Éric-Emmanuel Schmitt’s Concerto à la mémoire d’un ange. Although
numerous translation scholars are also practising translators, we rarely look at our own processes and practices. Not only is this
reality of translation revision largely overlooked but also the wealth of empirical data generated during the translation process
remains unexploited. Drawing on my own translation practice, this study adopts an autoethnographic approach to provide insights
into how revision materialised in this specific literary translation. Meticulously conserved real-life data are analysed in order
to shed light on the agents involved in the revision process, their role and power.
Control and mathematical design of PV-based renewable energy systems for LCL-SR filter-based power quality improvement
Authors: Tiwari Anurag
Published: April 2024

Power quality challenges arise when photovoltaic (PV) systems are integrated into power networks. This research work examines the control and mathematical design of an LCL-SR (series resistance) filter for power quality improvement in PV-based sustainable energy systems to meet this difficulty. Power quality may be improved via an LCL filter in grid-connected systems. A non-linear load-connected PV system incorporates a variety of power electronics controllers, including an MPPT controller, battery controller, and inverter current controller, which introduce harmonics into the grid. A passive filter, LCL-SR, is suggested for PV applications that interact with voltage source inverters and the utility grid or electric load to reduce harmonics. A detailed mathematical modeling is presented to design an LCL-SR filter, and its performance is evaluated under different load conditions in terms of THD (Total Harmonics Distortion) and efficiency. LCL-SR filter has 4.32% THD but in the case of LCL filter with parallel R is less THD, which is 3.61%. In terms of efficiency and THD LCL-SR is best among all compared filters which have THD is 4.32% along with an efficiency is 75.95%. The results are compared without a filter, and different configurations of LCL-SR are simulated to show the effectiveness of the proposed filter for PV & residential applications.
Two novel temperature-based topological indices with strong potential to predict physicochemical properties of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with applications to silicon carbide nanotubes
Authors: Hayat Sakander , Alanazi Seham J F , Liu Jia-Bao
Published: April 2024

For a vertex x ∈ V

G
, the temperature T

x
of x is defined as T

x
= d

x
/n − d

x
. A topological/graphical index G

I
is a map

GI
:
∑
→
R

, where ∑ (resp.

R

) is the set of chemical graphs (resp. real numbers). Graphical indices are employed in structure-property & structure-activity modeling to predict physicochemical/thermodynamic/bilogical characteristics of a compound. A temperature-based graphical index of a chemical graph G is defined as GI

T
≔ ∑edges
f(T

x
, t

y
), where f(T

x
, T

y
) is a symmetric 2-variable map. In this paper, we introduce two new novel temperature-based indices known as the reduced reciprocal product-connectivity temperature (RRPT) index and the geometric-arithmetic temperature (GAT) index. The predictive potential of these indices have been investigated by employing them in structure-property modeling of physicochemical properties of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The normal boiling point (bp) and the standard enthalpy of formation

Δ

H

f

o

are selected as representatives of physicochemical characteristics. Intermolecular & van der Waals kind of interactions have been represented by bp, whereas,

Δ

H

f

o

advocates for thermal characteristics of a compound. In order to validate the statistical inference, the lower 22 PAHs have been opted as test molecules as their experimental data is also publicly available. We propose a computational method to compute all temperature indices in literature and employ it to compute them for the lower 22 PAHs. Besides all the existing temperature indices, both RRPT & GAT are used in a quality testing to predict bp and

Δ

H

f

o

for lower PAHs. Our statistical analysis asserts that both RRPT & GAT outperformed all the existing temperature indices for correlating bp and

Δ

H

f

o

for lower PAHs. Most appropriate data-fitting regression models have been suggested to be linear. Since RRPT has the both of correlation coefficients >0.95, the study implicates its further employability in structure-property modeling. Importantly, our research contributes towards countering proliferation of graphical indices. Applications to well-performing temperature indices to correlate physicochemical characteristics of silicon carbide nanotubes are presented.
A constrained NILC method for CMB B mode observations
Authors: Zhang Zirui , Liu Yang , Li Si-Yu , Li Haifeng , Li Hong
Published: April 2024

The Internal Linear Combination (ILC) method is commonly employed to extract the cosmic microwave background (CMB) signal from multi-frequency observation maps.
However, the performance of the ILC method tends to degrade when the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is relatively low, particularly when measuring the primordial B-modes to detect the primordial gravitational waves. To address this issue, an enhanced version of the ILC method, known as constrained ILC, is proposed.
This method is designed to be more suitable for situations with low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) by incorporating additional prior foreground information.
In our study, we have modified the constraint Needlet ILC method and successfully improved its performance at low SNR.
We illustrate our methods using mock data generated from the combination of WMAP, Planck and a ground-based experiment in the northern hemisphere, and the chosen noise level for the ground-based experiment are very conservative which can be easily achieved in the very near future. The results show that the level of foreground residual can be well controlled. In comparison to the standard NILC method, which introduces a bias to the tensor-to-scalar ratio (r) of approximately 0.05, the constrained NILC method exhibits a significantly reduced bias of only around 5 × 10-3 towards r which is much smaller than the statistical error.
The potential of urban trees to reduce heat-related mortality in London
Authors: Taylor Jonathon , Simpson Charles , Brousse Oscar , Viitanen Anna-Kaisa , Heaviside Clare
Published: April 2024

Increasing temperatures and more frequent heatwave events pose threats to population health, particularly in urban environments due to the urban heat island (UHI) effect. Greening, in particular planting trees, is widely discussed as a means of reducing heat exposure and associated mortality in cities. This study aims to use data from personal weather stations (PWS) across the Greater London Authority to understand how urban temperatures vary according to tree canopy coverage and estimate the heat-health impacts of London’s urban trees. Data from Netatmo PWS from 2015–2022 were cleaned, combined with official Met Office temperatures, and spatially linked to tree canopy coverage and built environment data. A generalized additive model was used to predict daily average urban temperatures under different tree canopy coverage scenarios for historical and projected future summers, and subsequent health impacts estimated. Results show areas of London with higher canopy coverage have lower urban temperatures, with average maximum daytime temperatures 0.8 °C and minimum temperatures 2.0 °C lower in the top decile versus bottom decile canopy coverage during the 2022 heatwaves. We estimate that London’s urban forest helped avoid 153 heat attributable deaths from 2015–2022 (including 16 excess deaths during the 2022 heatwaves), representing around 16% of UHI-related mortality. Increasing tree coverage 10% in-line with the London strategy would have reduced UHI-related mortality by a further 10%, while a maximal tree coverage would have reduced it 55%. By 2061–2080, under RCP8.5, we estimate that London’s current tree planting strategy can help avoid an additional 23 heat-attributable deaths a year, with maximal coverage increasing this to 131. Substantial benefits would also be seen for carbon storage and sequestration. Results of this study support increasing urban tree coverage as part of a wider public health effort to mitigate high urban temperatures.
Noether invariance theory for the equilibrium force structure of soft matter
Authors: Hermann Sophie , Sammüller Florian , Schmidt Matthias
Published: April 2024

We give details and derivations for the Noether invariance theory that characterizes the spatial equilibrium structure of inhomogeneous classical many-body systems, as recently proposed and investigated for bulk systems (Sammüller et al 2023 Phys. Rev. Lett.
130 268203). Thereby an intrinsic thermal symmetry against a local shifting transformation on phase space is exploited on the basis of the Noether theorem for invariant variations. We consider the consequences of the shifting that emerge at second order in the displacement field that parameterizes the transformation. In a natural way the standard two-body density distribution is generated. Its second spatial derivative is thereby balanced by two further and different two-body correlation functions, which respectively introduce thermally averaged force correlations and force gradients in a systematic and microscopically sharp way into the framework. Separate exact self and distinct sum rules express this balance. We exemplify the validity of the theory on the basis of computer simulations for the Lennard–Jones gas, liquid, and crystal, the Weeks–Chandler–Andersen fluid, monatomic Molinero–Moore water at ambient conditions, a three-body-interacting colloidal gel former, the Yukawa and soft-sphere dipolar fluids, and for isotropic and nematic phases of Gay–Berne particles. We describe explicitly the derivation of the sum rules based on Noether’s theorem and also give more elementary proofs based on partial phase space integration following Yvon’s theorem.