bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly stable, fluorescent, artificial lipoprotein nanoparticles
Authors: Ding Jingwen , Kalluri Ankarao , Kumar Challa V.
Published: July 2024

Here, we report a novel kind of protein nanoparticles of 11 nm in size, which have a central protein core surrounded by two layers of lipid. One layer of the lipid was covalently attached to the protein, while the other layer has been physically assembled around the protein core. Particle synthesis is highly modular, while both the size and charge of the protein nanoparticles are controlled in a predictable manner. Circular dichroism studies of the conjugate showed that the protein secondary structure is retained, while biophysical characterizations indicated the particle purity, size, and charge. The conjugate had a high thermal stability to steam sterilization conditions at 121°C (17 psi). After labeling the protein core with few different fluorescent dyes, they were strongly fluorescent with the corresponding colors independent of their size, unlike quantum dots. They are readily digested by proteases, and these water‐soluble, non‐toxic, highly stable, biocompatible, and biodegradable conjugates are suitable for cell imaging and drug delivery applications.
Unveiling novel targets in melanoma under melanogenesis stimulation and photodynamic therapy by redox proteomics
Authors: Mazepa Ester , Cunha Elizabeth Sousa , Valerio Hellen Paula , Di Mascio Paolo , Batista Michel , Marchini Fabricio Klerynton , Meira Willian Vanderlei , Noleto Guilhermina Rodrigues , Winnischofer Sheila Maria Brochado , Martinez Glaucia Regina
Published: July 2024

Melanogenesis‐stimulated B16‐F10 cells enter in a quiescent state, present inhibited mitochondrial respiration and increased reactive oxygen species levels. These alterations suggest that these cells may be under redox signaling, allowing tumor survival. The aim of this study was to evaluate redox‐modified proteins in B16‐F10 cells after melanogenesis stimulation and rose bengal‐photodynamic therapy (RB‐PDT). A redox proteomics label‐free approach based on the biotin switch assay technique with biotin‐HPDP and N‐ethylmaleimide was used to assess the thiol‐oxidized protein profile. Aconitase was oxidized at Cys‐448 and Cys‐451, citrate synthase was oxidized at Cys‐202 and aspartate aminotransferase (Got2) was oxidized at Cys‐272 and Cys‐274, exclusively after melanogenesis stimulation. After RB‐PDT, only guanine nucleotide‐binding protein subunit beta‐2‐like 1 (Gnb2l1) was oxidized (Cys‐168). In contrast, melanogenesis stimulation followed by RB‐PDT led to the oxidation of different cysteines in Gnb2l1 (Cys‐153 and Cys‐249). Besides that, glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (Gapdh) presented oxidation at Cys‐245, peptidyl‐prolyl cis‐trans isomerase A (Ppia) was oxidized at Cys‐161 and 5,6‐dihydroxyindole‐2‐carboxylic acid oxidase (Tyrp1) was oxidized at Cys‐65, Cys‐30, and Cys‐336 after melanogenesis stimulation followed by RB‐PDT. The redox alterations observed in murine melanoma cells and identification of possible target proteins are of great importance to further understand tumor resistance mechanisms.
Continuous −1$-1$ hypergeometric orthogonal polynomials
Authors: Pelletier Jonathan , Vinet Luc , Zhedanov Alexei
Published: July 2024

The study of orthogonal polynomials viewed as limits of the ‐orthogonal polynomials is pursued. This paper presents the continuous polynomials part of the analog of the ‐Askey scheme. A compendium of the properties of all the continuous hypergeometric polynomials and their connections is provided.
The Saffman–Taylor problem and several sets of remarkable integral identities
Authors: Fokas A. S. , Kalimeris K.
Published: July 2024

The methodology based on the so‐called global relation, introduced by the first author, has recently led to the derivation of a novel nonlinear integral‐differential equation characterizing the classical problem of the Saffman–Taylor fingers with nonzero surface tension. In the particular case of zero surface tension, this equation is satisfied by the explicit solution obtained by Saffman and Taylor. Here, first, for the case of zero surface tension, we present a new nonlinear integrodifferential equation characterizing the Saffman–Taylor fingers. Then, by using the explicit Saffman–Taylor solution valid for the particular case of zero surface tension, we show that the above equations give rise to sets of remarkable integral trigonometric identities.
Theorizing a denial reaction to coming out: Revising Goffman's stigma through a sexual identity process model
Authors: Patel Sonali
Published: July 2024

Erving Goffman's seminal theorization of stigma is at the heart of social scientific conceptualizations of identity management. Using data from qualitative interviews with queer South Asian women in Canada, this article proposes revisions of Goffman's Stigma theory. Intervening his supposition of acceptance and hostility as the two possible reactions to stigma revelation, I establish denial as an additional reaction to identity disclosure. A denial reaction has four key characteristics: (1) resistance to queer sexuality, (2) prescriptive enforcement of heterosexuality, (3) refusal to accept lesbian relationships, and (4) avoidance of conversation about queerness. I argue that disclosure to parents does not always translate to outness; rather, it can force the individual back into the closet. I refer to this non‐linear process as the culturally expansive closet. The article presents a sexual identity management process model that accounts for these culturally collectivist experiences. The results are significant for rethinking and affirming non‐Western ways of managing stigmatized identities.
Models for predicting the risk of illness in leprosy contacts in Brazil: Leprosy prediction models in Brazilian contacts
Authors: de Alecrin Edilamar Silva , Martins Maria Auxiliadora Parreiras , de Oliveira Ana Laura Grossi , Lyon Sandra , Lages Ana Thereza Chaves , Reis Ilka Afonso , Pereira Fernando Henrique , Oliveira Dulcinea , Goulart Isabela Maria Bernardes , da Costa Rocha Manoel Otávio
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study aims to develop and validate predictive models that assess the risk of leprosy development among contacts, contributing to an enhanced understanding of disease occurrence in this population.

Methods

A cohort of 600 contacts of people with leprosy treated at the National Reference Center for Leprosy and Health Dermatology at the Federal University of Uberlândia (CREDESH/HC‐UFU) was followed up between 2002 and 2022. The database was divided into two parts: two‐third to construct the disease risk score and one‐third to validate this score. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to construct the disease score.

Results

Of the four models constructed, model 3, which included the variables anti‐phenolic glycolipid I immunoglobulin M positive, absence of Bacillus Calmette‐Guérin vaccine scar and age ≥60 years, was considered the best for identifying a higher risk of illness, with a specificity of 89.2%, a positive predictive value of 60% and an accuracy of 78%.

Conclusions

Risk prediction models can contribute to the management of leprosy contacts and the systematisation of contact surveillance protocols.
Correcting mortality estimates among children and youth on antiretroviral therapy in southern Africa: A comparative analysis between a multi‐country tracing study and linkage to a health information exchange
Authors: Nyakato Patience , Schomaker Michael , Boulle Andrew , Euvrard Jonathan , Wood Robin , Eley Brian , Prozesky Hans , Christ Benedikt , Anderegg Nanina , Ayakaka Irene , Rafael Idiovino , Kunzekwenyika Cordelia , Moore Carolyn B. , van Lettow Monique , Chimbetete Cleophas , Mbewe Safari , Ballif Marie , Egger Matthias , Yiannoutsos Constantin T. , Cornell Morna , Davies Mary‐Ann
Published: July 2024

Objectives

The objective of this study is to assess the outcomes of children, adolescents and young adults with HIV reported as lost to follow‐up, correct mortality estimates for children, adolescents and young adults with HIV for unascertained outcomes in those loss to follow‐up (LTFU) based on tracing and linkage data separately using data from the International epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS in Southern Africa.

Methods

We included data from two different populations of children, adolescents and young adults with HIV; (1) clinical data from children, adolescents and young adults with HIV aged ≤24 years from Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe; (2) clinical data from children, adolescents and young adults with HIV aged ≤14 years from the Western Cape (WC) in South Africa. Outcomes of patients lost to follow‐up were available from (1) a tracing study and (2) linkage to a health information exchange. For both populations, we compared six methods for correcting mortality estimates for all children, adolescents and young adults with HIV.

Results

We found substantial variations of mortality estimates among children, adolescents and young adults with HIV reported as lost to follow‐up versus those retained in care. Ascertained mortality was higher among lost and traceable children, adolescents and young adults with HIV and lower among lost and linkable than those retained in care (mortality: 13.4% [traced] vs. 12.6% [retained‐other Southern Africa countries]; 3.4% [linked] vs. 9.4% [retained‐WC]). A high proportion of lost to follow‐up children, adolescents and young adults with HIV had self‐transferred (21.0% and 47.0%) in the traced and linked samples, respectively. The uncorrected method of non‐informative censoring yielded the lowest mortality estimates among all methods for both tracing (6.0%) and linkage (4.0%) approaches at 2 years from ART start. Among corrected methods using ascertained data, multiple imputation, incorporating ascertained data (MI(asc.)) and inverse probability weighting with logistic weights were most robust for the tracing approach. In contrast, for the linkage approach, MI(asc.) was the most robust.

Conclusions

Our findings emphasise that lost to follow‐up is non‐ignorable and both tracing and linkage improved outcome ascertainment: tracing identified substantial mortality in those reported as lost to follow‐up, whereas linkage did not identify out‐of‐facility deaths, but showed that a large proportion of those reported as lost to follow‐up were self‐transfers.
Utilizing codon degeneracy in the design of donor DNA for CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated gene editing to streamline the screening process for single amino acid mutations
Authors: Li Xuecheng , Zhang Yongli , Wen Xin , Pan Junmin
Published: July 2024

Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, a unicellular green alga, has been widely used as a model organism for studies of algal, plant and ciliary biology. The generation of targeted amino acid mutations is often necessary, and this can be achieved using CRISPR/Cas9 induced homology‐directed repair to install genomic modifications from exogenous donor DNA. Due to the low gene editing efficiency, the technical challenge lies in identifying the mutant cells. Direct sequencing is not practical, and pre‐screening is required. Here, we report a strategy for generating and screening for amino acid point mutations using the CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing system. The strategy is based on designing donor DNA using codon degeneracy, which enables the design of specific primers to facilitate mutant screening by PCR. An in vitro assembled RNP complex, along with a dsDNA donor and an antibiotic resistance marker, was electroporated into wild‐type cells, followed by PCR screening. To demonstrate this principle, we have generated the E102K mutation in centrin and the K40R mutation in α‐tubulin. The editing efficiencies at the target sites for Centrin, TUA1, TUA2 were 4, 24 and 8% respectively, based on PCR screening. More than 80% of the mutants with the expected size of PCR products were precisely edited, as revealed by DNA sequencing. Subsequently, the precision‐edited mutants were biochemically verified. The introduction of codon degeneracy did not affect the gene expression of centrin and α‐tubulins. Thus, this approach can be used to facilitate the identification of point mutations, especially in genes with low editing rates.
A Logarithmic Penalty Function Approach for Enhancing the Alkylation Process in Kaduna and Warri Refineries
Authors: Hassan Mansur , Sulaiman Surajo
Published: July 2024

Petroleum industries play a vital role in the global economy, and research institutions need to focus on optimizing their chemical processes. Achieving the ideal operating conditions for these processes is crucial for effective management decision-making. In the alkylation reaction, isobutane reacts with light olefins, like butylenes, in the presence of a strong acid catalyst to produce high-octane compounds. To optimize the profit function without relying on complex computer programming codes, we utilized a novel logarithmic penalty function (LPF) approach. This approach was specifically designed to handle nonlinear programming problems with irregular features. The approach was implemented using the fminunc routine function, employing quasi-Newton methods, and compared it with existing conventional methods (using nonlinear programming system optimization laboratory (NPSOL) code and Hock-Schittkowsky (HS)). The results demonstrated higher efficiency compared to NPSOL and HS approaches as the LPF method yielded a higher objective value, implying a more favorable outcome in terms of maximizing the desired outcome (e.g. profit).
Stiffly Stable Diagonally Implicit Block Backward Differentiation Formula with Adaptive Step Size Strategy for Stiff Ordinary Differential Equations
Authors: Mohd Ijam Hazizah , Ibrahim Zarina Bibi , Mohd Zawawi Iskandar Shah
Published: July 2024

Experimental and theoretical evidence has shown that adaptive step size methods such as the backward differentiation formula (BDF) are more robust over a wider range of step sizes compared to those used in fixed step methods. Acknowledging the computational efficiency and accuracy obtained with such strategies, an adaptive step size version of the block backward differentiation formula (BBDF) in a diagonally implicit structure is proposed for solving stiff ordinary differential equations (ODEs), particularly in addressing the challenges posed by the chemical reaction problem within the domains of applied and industrial mathematics. The diagonally implicit structure with a lower triangular matrix and constant diagonal inputs offers significant advantages in evaluating the Jacobian and the lower-upper decomposition. The stability properties investigated show that the new class is zero-stable, A0-stable and almost A−stable. Comparative evaluations reveal the superior performance of the proposed method compared to the existing fully implicit BBDF and ode15s conducted in MATLAB software.
On the Potential of Biomass-Fueled Externally Fired Micro-Gas Turbines in the Energy Transition: Off-Design Performance Analysis
Authors: Bollas Konstantinos , Banihabib Reyhaneh , Assadi Mohsen , Kalfas Anestis
Published: July 2024

The potential of replacing the use of natural gas with biomass gasification syngas through an externally fired micro-gas turbine (EFMGTs) is the main scope of this study. This includes the performance assessment at various off-design and ambient conditions compared to a reference natural-gas-fired Micro-Gas Turbine. The penetration of biomass use in the decentralized combined heat and power (CHP) sector can reduce fossil fuel dependency and contribute to the achievement of the net-zero emissions target. For this purpose, an analytical externally fired thermodynamic model is incorporated and validated with an artificial neural network (ANN) based on a natural-gas-fired micro-gas turbine unit. An operating strategy is proposed to ensure the system's safe operation under any fuel input conditions. The performance between the investigated cases is compared using an exergetic analysis. The main loss contributors that determine each case's performance are the exit losses. The substantial decrease of the latter results in high externally fired part-load efficiency, maximizing 110% of design-point efficiency. System performance has a linear dependency on ambient conditions. The increased flexibility introduced by the proposed operating strategy case facilitates the transition from natural gas to biomass, especially for higher heat-to-power ratio demands. The analysis highlights that the current externally fired configuration lags behind in high electrical demands (>90 kWel). However, this deficiency is diminished in cold ambient temperatures (<0 °C), indicating that the proposed technology is very opportune for these climatic conditions.
A Dynamic Testing Approach for Particulate Erosion–Corrosion for Gas Turbine Coatings
Authors: Stokes Jamesa L. , Presby Michael J.
Published: July 2024

Particle interactions in engines can be complex phenomena leading to degradation of thermal (TBCs) and environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) meant to protect engine components. Ingestion of particles into the engine can lead to recession of coatings due to particle erosion. Similarly, these particles can become molten, adhere to coatings, and result in thermochemical corrosion of coating materials. Erosion testing is often carried out where particles are injected into a gas stream, accelerated within a nozzle, and impinge on samples. Conversely, most molten particle corrosion testing is often done in static furnaces, which does not capture the dynamic nature of deposition. Nevertheless, these damage mechanisms are often tested separately, and no standard exists to test both erosive/corrosive particle interactions with coating materials under relevant turbine operating conditions. Understanding the synergies of particle interactions is crucial in determining operating lifetimes of potential coating materials. Such considerations emphasize the need for realistic approaches in standardizing particle interaction testing in combustion environments. This study outlines efforts at NASA Glenn's Erosion Burner Rig Facility in improving dynamic erosion/corrosion testing methods by assessing the durability of state-of-the-art (SOA) TBC 7 wt % yttria-stabilized zirconia (7YSZ) as a function of particle deposition rate, burner temperature, and particle size. Calibration data to determine particle deposition rate will be presented, and mass and optical profilometry measurements were utilized to estimate mass/volume loss versus deposition per increment of particulate used. Electron microscopy analyses were then carried out to assess coating damage after testing.
Giant fusion project in big trouble
Authors: Clery Daniel
Published: July 2024

ITER operations delayed to 2034, with energy-producing reactions expected 5 years later
Does wildlife rehabilitation work? No one knows for sure
Authors: Quaglia Sofia
Published: July 2024

Rescuers struggle to track what happens to animals once they leave their care
Durable proteins appear to protect ovaries
Authors: Leslie Mitch
Published: July 2024

Studies find long-lived proteins are prevalent in the organs
Primary hyperparathyroidism caused by a tiny mediastinal parathyroid adenoma with non-localising imaging studies
Authors: Peixoto Pedro Polastri Lima , Durço Daniella de Freitas Pereira Calheir , Conti de Freitas Luiz Carlos
Published: July 2024

Variations in parathyroid gland positions often cause failure in initial parathyroid adenoma surgery, especially when imaging fails to localise the adenoma. This report describes a female patient with primary hyperparathyroidism for which preoperative localisation studies did not determine the position of the hyperfunctioning gland. The initial approach with bilateral cervical exploration and intraoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring was performed unsuccessfully. A mediastinal adenoma was suspected due to meticulous negative neck exploration and repeated negative images for a neck adenoma. Subsequently, a second approach involving mediastinal exploration was performed. After the removal of remnant thymic tissue in the mediastinal space, a significant drop in intraoperative parathyroid hormone levels was achieved. The pathological result confirmed the presence of a tiny pathological parathyroid adenoma within the thymus. At 6 months follow-up, postoperative biochemical assessment was consistent with normal calcium and parathyroid hormone levels.
Local tumour control and patient survival after ruthenium-106 brachytherapy for small choroidal melanoma
Authors: Gallo Beatrice , Hussain Rohan , Al-Jamal Ranaa , Khalid Hagar , Stoker Ian , Hay Gordon , Arora Amit K , Szlosarek Peter W , Sagoo Mandeep S
Published: July 2024

Aim

To report local tumour control, metastasis and survival rates of patients with small choroidal melanoma (CM) after treatment with ruthenium-106 (Ru-106) plaque brachytherapy.

Methods

Retrospective case series of 353 consecutive eyes with small CM (thickness ≤2.5 mm and largest basal diameter ≤16 mm) treated with Ru-106 brachytherapy at the London Ocular Oncology Service, between October 2004 and May 2019.

Results

The final cohort included 310 eyes and tumour recurrence was observed in 52 (17%) eyes. Ocular retention rate was 96%. Metastatic disease and tumour-related death occurred in 18 (5.8%) and 12 (3.9%) patients, respectively. Metastases were diagnosed after a median of 54 (54±35; range 3.6–118) months from initial treatment. Kaplan-Meier estimates for tumour recurrence, melanoma-related metastases and survival were 17% (95% CI 13.3% to 22.9%), 4.8% (95% CI 2.6% to 8.5%) and 98% (95% CI 94.4% to 99.1%) at 5 years and 26% (95% CI 18.3% to 35.3%), 16% (95% CI 8.7% to 27.7%) and 92% (95% CI 84.5% to 95.7%) at 10 years, respectively. On multivariable analysis, factors predictive for tumour recurrence included juxtapapillary location, larger plaque and final tumour thickness, and for metastasis exudative retinal detachment.

Conclusion

Small CMs treated with Ru-106 brachytherapy show recurrence and death rates of 17% and 2% at 5 years and 26% and 8% at 10 years. As small CMs have better prognosis than large tumours, early treatment is the key for better survival outcomes.
Navigating process evaluation in co-creation: a Health CASCADE scoping review of used frameworks and assessed components
Authors: Longworth Giuliana Raffaella , de Boer Janneke , Goh Kunshan , Agnello Danielle Marie , McCaffrey Lauren , Zapata Restrepo Jorge Raul , An Qingfan , Chastin Sebastien , Davis Aaron , Altenburg Teatske , Verloigne Maite , Giné-Garriga Maria
Published: July 2024

Background

Co-creation is seen as a way to ensure all relevant needs and perspectives are included and to increase its potential for beneficial effects and uptake process evaluation is crucial. However, existing process evaluation frameworks have been built on practices characterised by top-down developed and implemented interventions and may be limited in capturing essential elements of co-creation. This study aims to provide a review of studies planning and/or conducting a process evaluation of public health interventions adopting a co-creation approach and aims to derive assessed process evaluation components, used frameworks and insights into formative and/or participatory evaluation.

Methods

We searched for studies on Scopus and the Health CASCADE Co-Creation Database. Co-authors performed a concept-mapping exercise to create a set of overarching dimensions for clustering the identified process evaluation components.

Results

54 studies were included. Conceptualisation of process evaluation included in studies concerned intervention implementation, outcome evaluation, mechanisms of impact, context and the co-creation process. 22 studies (40%) referenced ten existing process evaluation or evaluation frameworks and most referenced were the frameworks developed by Mooreet al(14%), Saunderset al(5%), Steckler and Linnan (5%) and Nielsen and Randall (5%).

38 process evaluation components were identified, with a focus on participation (48%), context (40%), the experience of co-creators (29%), impact (29%), satisfaction (25%) and fidelity (24%).

13 studies (24%) conducted formative evaluation, 37 (68%) conducted summative evaluation and 2 studies (3%) conducted participatory evaluation.

Conclusion

The broad spectrum of process evaluation components addressed in co-creation studies, covering both the evaluation of the co-creation process and the intervention implementation, highlights the need for a process evaluation tailored to co-creation studies. This work provides an overview of process evaluation components, clustered in dimensions and reflections which researchers and practitioners can use to plan a process evaluation of a co-creation process and intervention.
Exploring early discontinuation of mental health outpatient treatment: language, demographics and clinical characteristics among migrant populations in Japan
Authors: Tsoh Janice Y , Takubo Youji , Fukui Eriko , Suzuki Ayaka , Iwai Momoko , Saito Hisaaki , Tsujino Naohisa , Uchino Takashi , Katagiri Naoyuki , Nemoto Takahiro
Published: July 2024

Background

The fast-growing migrant population in Japan and globally poses challenges in mental healthcare, yet research addressing migrants’ mental health treatment engagement remains limited.

Objective

This study examined language proficiency, demographic and clinical characteristics as predictors of early treatment discontinuation among migrants.

Methods

Electronic health record data from 196 adult migrants, identified from 14 511 patients who received mental health outpatient treatment during 2016 and 2019 at three central hospitals in the Tokyo-Yokohama metropolitan region of Japan, were used. We conducted multivariable regression models to identify predictors of early discontinuation within 3 months.

Findings

The study cohort (66% women, age range: 18–90 years, from 29 countries or regions) included 23% non-Japanese speakers. Japanese and non-Japanese speakers had similar discontinuation rates (26% vs 22%). Multivariable models revealed younger age (OR=0.97; 95% CI: 0.95, 0.99; p=0.016) and those with a primary diagnosis other than a schizophrenia spectrum disorder (OR=3.99; 95% CI: 1.36, 11.77; p=0.012) or a neurotic, stress-related and somatoform disorder (OR=2.79; 95% CI: 1.14, 6.84; p=0.025) had higher odds of early discontinuation. These effects were more pronounced among the Japanese speakers with significant language-by-age and language-by-diagnoses interactions.

Conclusion

Younger age and having a primary diagnosis other than a schizophrenia spectrum disorder or a neurotic, stress-related and somatoform disorder increased vulnerability for discontinuing mental health treatment early in Japanese-speaking migrants but not for migrants with limited Japanese proficiency.

Clinical implications

Understanding language needs within a context of mental health treatment should go beyond assumed or observed fluency. Unmet language needs might increase vulnerability for treatment disengagement among migrants. Targeted clinical efforts are crucial for enhancing early treatment engagement and informing health practices in Japan and countries with growing migrant populations.
Developing a customised set of evidence-based quality indicators for measuring workplace violence towards healthcare workers: a modified Delphi method
Authors: Sethi Rickinder , Lyver Brendan , Gorla Jaswanth , Singh Brendan , Hanagan Trevor , Haines Jennifer , Toppings Marc , Schulz-Quach Christian
Published: July 2024

Background

Workplace violence (WPV) is a complex global challenge in healthcare that can only be addressed through a quality improvement initiative composed of a complex intervention. However, multiple WPV-specific quality indicators are required to effectively monitor WPV and demonstrate an intervention’s impact. This study aims to determine a set of quality indicators capable of effectively monitoring WPV in healthcare.

Methods

This study used a modified Delphi process to systematically arrive at an expert consensus on relevant WPV quality indicators at a large, multisite academic health science centre in Toronto, Canada. The expert panel consisted of 30 stakeholders from the University Health Network (UHN) and its affiliates. Relevant literature-based quality indicators which had been identified through a rapid review were categorised according to the Donabedian model and presented to experts for two consecutive Delphi rounds.

Results

87 distinct quality indicators identified through the rapid review process were assessed by our expert panel. The surveys received an average response rate of 83.1% in the first round and 96.7% in the second round. From the initial set of 87 quality indicators, our expert panel arrived at a consensus on 17 indicators including 7 structure, 6 process and 4 outcome indicators. A WPV dashboard was created to provide real-time data on each of these indicators.

Conclusions

Using a modified Delphi methodology, a set of quality indicators validated by expert opinion was identified measuring WPV specific to UHN. The indicators identified in this study were found to be operationalisable at UHN and will provide longitudinal quality monitoring. They will inform data visualisation and dissemination tools which will impact organisational decision-making in real time.
Cold versus hot snare endoscopic mucosal resection for large (≥15 mm) flat non-pedunculated colorectal polyps: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: O’Sullivan Timothy , Cronin Oliver , van Hattem W Arnout , Mandarino Francesco Vito , Gauci Julia L , Kerrison Clarence , Whitfield Anthony , Gupta Sunil , Lee Eric , Williams Stephen J , Burgess Nicholas , Bourke Michael J
Published: July 2024

Background and aims

Conventional hot snare endoscopic mucosal resection (H-EMR) is effective for the management of large (≥20 mm) non-pedunculated colon polyps (LNPCPs) however, electrocautery-related complications may incur significant morbidity. With a superior safety profile, cold snare EMR (C-EMR) of LNPCPs is an attractive alternative however evidence is lacking. We conducted a randomised trial to compare the efficacy and safety of C-EMR to H-EMR.

Methods

Flat, 15–50 mm adenomatous LNPCPs were prospectively enrolled and randomly assigned to C-EMR or H-EMR with margin thermal ablation at a single tertiary centre. The primary outcome was endoscopically visible and/or histologically confirmed recurrence at 6 months surveillance colonoscopy. Secondary outcomes were clinically significant post-EMR bleeding (CSPEB), delayed perforation and technical success.

Results

177 LNPCPs in 177 patients were randomised to C-EMR arm (n=87) or H-EMR (n=90). Treatment groups were equivalent for technical success 86/87 (98.9%) C-EMR versus H-EMR 90/90 (100%); p=0.31. Recurrence was significantly greater in C-EMR (16/87, 18.4% vs 1/90, 1.1%; relative risk (RR) 16.6, 95% CI 2.24 to 122; p<0.001).

Delayed perforation (1/90 (1.1%) vs 0; p=0.32) only occurred in the H-EMR group. CSPEB was significantly greater in the H-EMR arm (7/90 (7.8%) vs 1/87 (1.1%); RR 6.77, 95% CI 0.85 to 53.9; p=0.034).

Conclusion

Compared with H-EMR, C-EMR for flat, adenomatous LNPCPs, demonstrates superior safety with equivalent technical success. However, endoscopic recurrence is significantly greater for cold snare resection and is currently a limitation of the technique.

Trial registration number

NCT04138030
Screen exposure, mental health and emotional well-being in the adolescent population: is it time for governments to take action?
Authors: Alvarez de Mon Miguel Angel , Sánchez-Villegas Almudena , Gutiérrez-Rojas Luis , Martinez-Gonzalez Miguel A
Published: July 2024

During the last decade, a multitude of epidemiological studies with different designs have been published assessing the association between the use of digital media and psychological well-being, including the incidence of mental disorders and suicidal behaviours. Particularly, available research has very often focused on smartphone use in teenagers, with highly addictive potential, coining the term ‘problematic smartphone use’ and developing specific scales to measure the addictive or problematic use of smartphones. Available studies, despite some methodological limitations and gaps in knowledge, suggest that higher screen time is associated with impaired psychological well-being, lower self-esteem, higher levels of body dissatisfaction, higher incidence of eating disorders, poorer sleeping outcomes and higher odds of depressive symptoms in adolescents. Moreover, a significant association has also been found between screen time and higher suicide risk. Finally, problematic pornography has been shown to be highly prevalent and it is a strong cause of concern to many public health departments and national governments because it might be eventually associated with aggressive sexual behaviours.
Adiposity, fat-free mass and incident heart failure in 500 000 individuals
Authors: Oguntade Ayodipupo S , Taylor Hannah , Lacey Ben , Lewington Sarah
Published: July 2024

Background and aims

The independent role of body fat distribution and fat-free mass in heart failure (HF) risk is unclear. We investigated the role of different body composition compartments in risk of HF.

Methods

Present analyses include 428 087 participants (mean age 55.9 years, 44% male) from the UK Biobank. Associations of long-term average levels of body composition measures with incident HF were determined using adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression models.

Results

Over a median follow-up of 13.8 years, there were 10 455 first-ever incident HF events. Overall, HF risk was more strongly associated with central adiposity (waist circumference (WC) adjusted for body mass index (BMI); HR 1.38, 95% CI 1.32 to 1.45) than general adiposity (BMI adjusted for WC; HR 1.22, 95% CI 1.16 to 1.27). Although dual X-ray absorptiometry-derived body fat remained positively related to HF after adjustment for fat-free mass (HR 1.37, 95% CI 1.18 to 1.59), the association of fat-free mass with HF was substantially attenuated by fat mass (HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.26) while visceral fat (VAT) remained associated with HF independent of subcutaneous fat (HR 1.20, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.33). In analyses of HF subtypes, HF with preserved ejection fraction was independently associated with all fat measures (eg, VAT: HR 1.23, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.35; body fat: HR 1.36, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.57) while HF with reduced ejection fraction was not independently associated with fat measures (eg, VAT: HR 1.29, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.68; body fat: HR 1.29, 95% CI 0.80 to 2.07).

Conclusions

This large-scale study shows that excess adiposity and fat mass are associated with higher HF risk while the association of fat-free mass with HF could be explained largely by its correlation with fat mass. The study also describes the independent relevance of body fat distribution to HF subtypes, suggesting different mechanisms may be driving their aetiopathogenesis.
Accretion of microcontinents and arcs in the southern Central Asian Orogenic Belt: insights from provenance analyses of early Paleozoic sedimentary records in Beishan
Authors: Huo Ning , Ao Songjian , Xiao Wenjiao , Guo Qianqian , Mao Qigui , Song Dongfang
Published: July 2024

The Central Asian Orogenic Belt involves amalgamation of numerous magmatic arcs, accretionary complexes and continental fragments during long-lived subduction and accretion. However, the nature of key microcontinental terranes, as well as their continuity, remains unclear. This study conducted outcrop observation, heavy mineral assemblage, whole-rock geochemistry, detrital zircon U–Pb dating and Lu–Hf isotope analysis on sandstones in the Beishan orogenic belt. The findings from field observations, petrographic analysis and weathering indices show that the tectonic setting of the sandstone is a forearc sedimentary basin. The maximum depositional ages (MDAs) of sandstones are 503.8 ± 6.9
 
Ma and 431.9 ± 6.0
 
Ma. The provenance of the sandstone is complex, which probably originates from the Shuangyingshan and Hanshan blocks. By comparing the detrital zircon U–Pb ages with adjacent terranes such as Central Tianshan, Dunhuang and Tarim, it was observed that the Shuangyingshan block shares similar provenance with the Dunhuang terrane, while the Mazongshan–Hanshan shows affinity to the Central Tianshan terrane. This study highlights the complex nature of sediment provenance in the Beishan orogenic belt, influenced by tectonic processes involving thrusting, accretionary complexes and the presence of multiple terranes.
Structural and geomorphological constraints on the activity of the Sparta Fault (Greece)
Authors: Çal Çağatay , Boulton Sarah J. , Mildon Zoë
Published: July 2024

The ancient city of Sparti (Greece) suffered extensive damage from an estimated M
w
7.2 earthquake in 464
bce
, resulting in
c.
20 000 fatalities, but questions remain about the short- (
c.
10
4
 years) and long-term (10
5
–10
6
 years) activity of this important structure. This paper presents new structural data and fluvial geomorphological analysis from the Sparta Fault and, in particular, considers the less well-known northern fault segment. A new topographic profile on the well-developed post-glacial fault scarp from the northern strand indicates a 7.53 m offset over the last
c.
15 ka, suggesting a throw-rate of
c.
0.5 mm a
−1
. The longitudinal profiles of rivers flowing across the fault allow the elucidation of longer term fault activity. Along the strike of the fault, rivers exhibit up to two slope-break knickpoints, which decrease in height from south to north. These knickpoints are interpreted to have formed as a result of the initiation of faulting and a subsequent slip-rate acceleration. The post-glacial fault scarp and fluvial geomorphology both indicate that the entire fault is active and has an asymmetrical throw profile that results in the highest slip-rate in the south.
MERCI: Mixed Curvature-Based Elements for Computing Equilibria of Thin Elastic Ribbons
Authors: Charrondière Raphaël , Neukirch Sébastien , Bertails-Descoubes Florence
Published: July 2024

Thin elastic ribbons represent a class of intermediary objects lying in-between thin elastic plates and thin elastic rods. Although the two latter families of thin structures have received much interest from the Computer Graphics community over the last decades, ribbons have seldom been considered and modelled numerically so far, in spite of a growing number of applications in Computer Design.

In this article, starting from the reduced developable ribbon models [Sadowsky
1929
; Wunderlich
1962
] recently popularised in Soft Matter Physics, we propose a both accurate and efficient algorithm for computing the statics of thin elastic ribbons. Inspired by the super-clothoid model for thin elastic rods, our method relies on compact ribbon elements whose normal curvature varies linearly with respect to arc length
s
, while their geodesic torsion is quadratic in
s
. In contrast, however, for the sake of efficiency, our algorithm avoids building a fully reduced kinematic chain and instead treats each element independently, gluing them only at the final solving stage through well-chosen bilateral constraints.

Thanks to this mixed variational strategy, which yields a banded Hessian, our algorithm recovers the linear complexity of low-order models while preserving the high-order convergence of curvature-based models. As a result, our approach is scalable to a large number of elements, and suitable for various boundary conditions and unilateral contact constraints, making it possible to handle challenging scenarios such as confined buckling experiments or Möbius bands with contact. Remarkably, our mixed algorithm proves an order of magnitude faster compared to Discrete Elastic Ribbon models of the literature while achieving, in a few seconds only, high accuracy levels that remain out of reach for such low-order models. Additionally, our numerical model can incorporate various ribbon energies, including the
RibExt
model for quasi-developable ribbons recently introduced in Physics [Audoly and Neukirch
2021
], which allows to transition smoothly between a rectangular Kirchhoff rod and a (developable) Sadowsky ribbon. Our numerical scheme is carefully validated against demanding experiments of the Physics literature, which demonstrates its accuracy, efficiency, robustness, and versatility.

Our
Merci
code is publicly available at https://gitlab.inria.fr/elan-public-code/merci for the sake of reproducibility and future benchmarking.
AceCoder
: An Effective Prompting Technique Specialized in Code Generation
Authors: Li Jia , Zhao Yunfei , Li Yongmin , Li Ge , Jin Zhi
Published: July 2024

Large language models (LLMs) have shown great success in code generation. LLMs take as the input a prompt and output the code. How to make prompts (i.e.,
Prompting Techniques
) is a key question. Existing prompting techniques are designed for natural language generation and have low accuracy in code generation.

In this article, we propose a new prompting technique named
AceCoder
. Our motivation is that code generation meets two unique challenges (i.e., requirement understanding and code implementation).
AceCoder
contains two novel mechanisms (i.e., guided code generation and example retrieval) to solve these challenges. ❶ Guided code generation asks LLMs first to analyze requirements and output an intermediate preliminary (e.g., test cases). The preliminary clarifies requirements and tells LLMs
“what to write.”
❷ Example retrieval selects similar programs as examples in prompts, which provide lots of relevant content (e.g., algorithms, APIs) and teach LLMs
“how to write.”
We apply
AceCoder
to four LLMs (e.g., GPT-3.5, CodeGeeX) and evaluate it on three public benchmarks using the Pass@

\(k\)

. Results show that
AceCoder
can significantly improve the performance of LLMs on code generation.

In terms of Pass@1,
AceCoder
outperforms the SOTA baseline by up to 56.4% in MBPP, 70.7% in MBJP, and 88.4% in MBJSP

.
AceCoder
is effective in LLMs with different sizes (i.e., 6B–13B) and different languages (i.e., Python, Java, and JavaScript). Human evaluation shows human developers prefer programs from
AceCoder
.
A Generalized Method for Proving Polynomial Calculus Degree Lower Bounds
Authors: Mikša Mladen , Nordström Jakob
Published: July 2024

We study the problem of obtaining lower bounds for polynomial calculus (PC) and polynomial calculus resolution (PCR) on proof degree, and hence by [Impagliazzo et al.  ’99] also on proof size. [Alekhnovich and Razborov’03] established that if the clause-variable incidence graph of a conjunctive normal form (CNF) formula 
F
is a good enough expander, then proving that 
F
is unsatisfiable requires high PC/PCR degree. We further develop their techniques to show that if one can “cluster” clauses and variables in a way that “respects the structure” of the formula in a certain sense, then it is sufficient that the incidence graph of this clustered version is an expander. We also show how a weaker structural condition is sufficient to obtain lower bounds on width for the resolution proof system, and give a unified treatment that highlights similarities and differences between resolution and polynomial calculus (PC) lower bounds.

As a corollary of our main technical theorem, we prove that the functional pigeonhole principle (FPHP) formulas require high PC/PCR degree when restricted to constant-degree expander graphs. This answers an open question in [Razborov’02], and also implies that the standard CNF encoding of the FPHP formulas require exponential proof size in polynomial calculus resolution (PCR). Thus, while onto-FPHP formulas are easy for polynomial calculus, as shown in [Riis’93], both FPHP and onto-PHP formulas are hard even when restricted to bounded-degree expanders.
Many faces, many names? Ethics in Belgian game development education
Authors: Denoo Maarten , Dupont Bruno , Zaman Bieke
Published: July 2024

What is nowadays taught to the game creators of tomorrow in terms of ethics? The current study addresses this question by focusing on 11 higher education and continuous vocational training programs for aspiring game developers taught in Belgium. We conducted textual analyses of institutional materials and semi-structured interviews with nine educators. By combining these sources of data, this study identifies three key categories of ethical considerations that are taught to students: content and design impact, workplace standards, and diversity in gaming culture. This study also underscores educators’ proactivity in addressing gaps between curricular content, industry expectations, and student concerns. It is our hope that this study elucidates the critical potential of teaching ethics, providing actionable recommendations for educational institutions to help prepare creators navigate complex moral issues in today's gaming landscape.
Atom Probe Tomography of the LiFePO4-Electrolyte Interface Enabled by Thin Film Electrodes
Authors: Moazzen Elahe , Mujtaba Jawayria , Buchholz Bruce , Isheim Dieter , Luu Norman S. , Rowell David , Hu Xiaobing , Ha Trung , Hersam Mark C. , Barnett Scott A.
Published: July 2024

Atom probe tomography (APT) can yield three-dimensional tomographic images at atomic-scale resolution and low-AMU elements such as Li are readily observed, making it a powerful tool for exploring battery materials interfaces. However, it is difficult to prepare APT specimen tips containing the interface of interest starting with typical particle-based battery electrodes. Here we demonstrate a methodology for reliable APT imaging of battery interfaces in which a thin film electrode geometry is used to provide well-controlled planar interfaces that are ideal for APT sample preparation and imaging. LiFePO4 (LFP) thin film electrodes, synthesized using pulsed laser deposition (PLD), were studied as an example system, with standard Li-salt electrolytes. For the results to be applicable to conventional particulate electrodes, it is important to obtain representative thin film structure and electrochemical characteristics. Thus, the effects of PLD conditions including substrate temperature, substrate crystallinity, target composition, and deposition time (number of laser pulses) on the thin film’s crystallographic texture, morphology, and electrochemical performance were studied. Optimized LFP film showed good crystallinity with low-C-rate capacity of ∼90 mAh g−1. Initial APT three-dimensional imaging of the LFP/electrolyte interface shows an ∼10 nm cathode-electrolyte interphase layer that is enriched in F and Li.