bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The whitening efficacy of a compound formula examined using an ultraviolet‐induced skin melanization model
Authors: Shu Xiaohong , Dong Xin , Ma Yuhong , Huo Wei , Li Zhaoxia , Zou Lin , Tang Ying , Li Li , Wang Xi
Published: April 2024

Background

In Eastern culture, a fair complexion is the standard of beauty, leading to appearance‐related distress among women with darker skin or facial pigmentation. Women seek whitening cosmetics to enhance their skin tone or correct their pigmentation, but their safety and effectiveness are paramount factors to consider. In this study, we evaluated the safety and whitening effects of a compound formula denoted as TEST comprising astaxanthin, nicotinamide, arbutin, and tranexamic acid.

Methods

Primary skin irritation and skin‐whitening efficacy were examined. Three qualified melanization areas were treated with TEST, 7% ascorbic acid, or a blank. Skin color, the individual type angle (ITA°), and the melanin index (MI) were compared among treatment areas.

Results

TEST did not induce a skin response and exhibited a significantly higher ITA° than the blank, while no significant difference was observed with that of 7% ascorbic acid. Furthermore, the MI of TEST was significantly reduced posttreatment.

Conclusions

TEST could be integrated into spot‐fading and skin‐whitening cosmeceuticals or functional cosmetics.
Release of fibrous web bands between the preaponeurotic fat pad and Levator aponeurosis in subclinical blepharoptosis correction during double‐eyelid blepharoplasty
Authors: Yu Lu , Li Jie , Yang XiaoNing , Li Xin , Wang TaiLing
Published: April 2024

Background

Double‐eyelid blepharoplasty is a popular cosmetic procedure in Asia; however, there are some drawbacks to this procedure for mild blepharoptosis. Enhancing movement of the levator aponeurosis can correct blepharoptosis through the release of fibrous web bands present between the preaponeurotic fat pad and levator aponeurosis.

Aim

To improve our understanding of the anatomical link between the levator aponeurosis and orbital septum fat and to introduce that the release of the link can provide favorable results in double‐eyelid blepharoplasty.

Patients/Methods

We included patients with latent ptosis or subclinical blepharoptosis who underwent double‐eyelid blepharoplasty with the release of fibrous web bands between June 2021 and March 2023. Mild ptosis was corrected following complete release of the fibrous bands beneath the preaponeurotic fat pad. Patients were followed up for 4–12 months postoperatively, and surgical outcomes were evaluated. Patient demographic variables and photographs were collected pre‐ and postoperatively. Patients, surgeons, and laypersons were asked to evaluate the outcomes postoperatively. The Friedman's nonparametric (for repeated measures) two‐way analysis of variance was used for statistical analyses.

Results

Outcomes were assessed in 45 individuals with an average monitoring period of 6.9 months. There were no cases of incomplete eyelid closure or upper eyelid ectropion. Over 50% of the surgical outcomes were deemed “satisfactory” by each of the three groups in relation to the widening of the eyelid fissure. Most of the examined patients demonstrated favorable long‐term results.

Conclusions

Fibrous web bands are implicated in subclinical or mild blepharoptosis. The release of fibrous web bands between the preaponeurotic fat pad and levator aponeurosis can provide favorable results in double‐eyelid blepharoplasty.
Spending Less after (Seemingly) Bad News
Authors: GARMAISE MARK J. , LEVI YARON , LUSTIG HANNO
Published: April 2024

Using high‐frequency spending data, we show that household consumption displays excess sensitivity to salient macroeconomic news, even when the news is not real. When the announced local unemployment rate reaches a 12‐month maximum, local news coverage of unemployment increases and local consumers reduce their discretionary spending by 1.5% relative to consumers in areas with the same macroeconomic conditions. Low‐income households display greater excess sensitivity to salience. The decrease in spending is not later reversed. Households in treated areas act as if they are more financially constrained than those in untreated areas with the same fundamentals.
Extraovarian seromucinous borderline tumor: Case report and literature review
Authors: Sakata Mina , Mabuchi Seiji , Maeda Michihide , Nagata Shigenori , Tanaka Junichiro , Kamiura Shoji
Published: April 2024

Seromucinous borderline tumors (SMBT) are papillary neoplasms without invasive capabilities. Originally categorized as ovarian tumors, SMBT, being an endometriosis‐related tumor, can manifest beyond the ovaries. To date, only four cases of extraovarian SMBT have been documented in literature. In this report, we present our experience with the first case of SMBT in the uterine cervix, which exhibited highly elevated CA19‐9 levels. The patient, initially clinically diagnosed with cervical cancer, underwent treatment with radical hysterectomy and was later pathologically diagnosed with SMBT of the uterine cervix. While extraovarian SMBT, especially in the uterine cervix, is extremely rare, this condition should be considered in patients with cervical masses lacking pathological evidence of malignant disease but displaying elevated CA19‐9 levels.
Molecular pathogenesis of ameloblastoma
Authors: Marín‐Márquez Constanza , Kirby Janine , Hunter Keith D.
Published: April 2024

Ameloblastoma (AM) is a benign, although aggressive, epithelial odontogenic tumour originating from tooth‐forming tissues or remnants. Its aetiopathogenesis remains unclear; however, molecular analysis techniques have allowed researchers to progress in understanding its genetic basis. The high frequency of BRAF p.V600E as a main driver mutation in AM is well established; nevertheless, it is insufficient to explain its tumourigenesis. In this review, we aimed to integrate the current knowledge about the biology of AM and to describe the main genetic alterations reported, focusing on the findings of large‐scale sequencing and gene expression profiling techniques. Current evidence shows that besides BRAF mutation and activation of the MAPK pathway, alterations in Hedgehog and Wnt/β‐catenin pathway‐related genes are also involved in AM pathogenesis. Recently, a tumour suppressor gene, KMT2D, has been reported as mutated by different research groups. The biological impact of these mutations in the pathogenesis of AM has yet to be elucidated. Further studies are needed to clarify the impact of these findings in the identification of novel biomarkers that could be useful for diagnosing, classifying, and molecular targeting this neoplasm.
Factors affecting the germination of teliospores of Sporisorium scitamineum and the development of sugarcane smut in the field
Authors: Hidayah Nurul , Bhuiyan Shamsul A. , Aitken Karen , Galea Victor
Published: April 2024

Temperature and water potential are critical factors influencing the germination of Sporisorium scitamineum teliospores and subsequent crop infection. This paper reports on the effect of temperature, water potential and incubation time on S. scitamineum teliospore germination. A field trial was conducted to determine the influence of temperature and length of exposure to teliospores on smut incidence. A 200 μL aliquot of teliospore (1.5 × 106 teliospores/mL) was cultured on water agar (WA) amended by potassium chloride (KCl) or sucrose. The plates were incubated across a range of temperatures and incubation times. For the field trial, sugarcane setts were inoculated and incubated at different temperatures and for varying incubation periods. The results demonstrated that germination decreased with declining water potential with either KCl or sucrose. The greatest germination (95.8%) occurred on unamended WA incubated at 30°C for 6 h. Even at the lowest water potential of −45 bars and 30°C, 50% teliospores were still able to germinate. These results indicate that 30°C is the optimum temperature for teliospore germination and that S. scitamineum may still germinate in fairly dry conditions. However, high temperatures (40°C), greatly reduce S. scitamineum germination. These results are consistent with field trial outcomes, which showed that the highest disease incidence (40.4%) occurred when temperature of inoculation was maintained at 30°C. On the other hand, the incidence was significantly reduced to 5.7% at 35°C. The results suggested consistent conditions for teliospore germination and sugarcane bud infection, with a temperature of 30°C being optimal for both.
Clinicopathological and pedigree investigation of a novel spinocerebellar neurological disease in juvenile Quarter Horses in North America
Authors: Willis Andrew T. , Dahlgren Anna R. , Woolard Kevin D. , Ghosh Sharmila , Donnelly Callum G. , de la Concha‐Bermejillo Andres , Pacheco Ana , Watson Katherine D. , Berryhill Emily , Aleman Monica , Wensley Fiona , Humphreys Sarah , Whitehead Ashley E. , Goldsmith Dayna , Chesen Berkley , Ragsdale John , Tompkins James E. , Nash Ron , Plunkett Amanda H. , Qualls Heath J. , Rodriguez Katarina , Hochanadel Damaris , Miller Andrew D. , Finno Carrie J.
Published: April 2024

Background

In 2020, a novel neurologic disease was observed in juvenile Quarter Horses (QHs) in North America. It was unknown if this was an aberrant manifestation of another previously described neurological disorder in foals, such as equine neuroaxonal dystrophy/equine degenerative myeloencephalopathy (eNAD/EDM).

Hypothesis/Objectives

To describe the clinical findings, outcomes, and postmortem changes with Equine Juvenile Spinocerebellar Ataxia (EJSCA), differentiate the disease from other similar neurological disorders, and determine a mode of inheritance.

Animals

Twelve neurologically affected QH foals and the dams.

Methods

Genomic DNA was isolated and pedigrees were manually constructed.

Results

All foals (n = 12/12) had a history of acute onset of neurological deficits with no history of trauma. Neurological deficits were characterized by asymmetrical spinal ataxia, with pelvic limbs more severely affected than thoracic limbs. Clinicopathological abnormalities included high serum activity of gamma‐glutamyl transferase and hyperglycemia. All foals became recumbent (median, 3 days: [0–18 days]), which necessitated humane euthanasia (n = 11/12, 92%; the remaining case was found dead). Histological evaluation at postmortem revealed dilated myelin sheaths and digestion chambers within the spinal cord, most prominently in the dorsal spinocerebellar tracts. Pedigree analysis revealed a likely autosomal recessive mode of inheritance.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

EJSCA is a uniformly fatal, rapidly progressive, likely autosomal recessive neurological disease of QHs <1 month of age in North America that is etiologically distinct from other clinically similar neurological disorders. Once the causative variant for EJSCA is validated, carriers can be identified through genetic testing to inform breeding decisions.
Influence of body weight, age, and sex on cerebrospinal fluid peak flow velocity in dogs without neurological disorders
Authors: Rich Johannes , Hubler Sarah , Vidondo Beatriz , Raillard Mathieu , Schweizer Daniela
Published: April 2024

Background

Changes in the brain can affect the flow velocity of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). In humans, the flow velocity of CSF is not only altered by disease but also by age and sex. Such influences are not known in dogs.

Hypothesis

Peak flow velocity of CSF in dogs is associated with body weight, age, and sex.

Animals

Peak flow velocity of CSF was measured in 32 client‐owned dogs of different breeds, age, and sex.

Methods

Peak flow velocity of CSF was determined by phase‐contrast magnetic resonance imaging (PC‐MRI) at the mesencephalic aqueduct, foramen magnum (FM), and second cervical vertebral body (C2). Dogs were grouped according to body weight, age, and sex. Flow velocity of CSF was compared between groups using linear regression models.

Results

Dogs with body weight >20 kg had higher CSF peak velocity compared with dogs <10 kg within the ventral and dorsal subarachnoid space (SAS) at the FM (P = .02 and P = .01, respectively), as well as in the ventral and dorsal SAS at C2 (P = .005 and P = .005, respectively). Dogs ≤2 years of age had significantly higher CSF peak flow velocity at the ventral SAS of the FM (P = .05). Females had significantly lower CSF peak flow velocity within the ventral SAS of FM (P = .04).

Conclusion

Body weight, age, and sex influence CSF peak flow velocity in dogs. These factors need to be considered in dogs when CSF flow is quantitatively assessed.
The influence of variations in ocular biometric and optical parameters on differences in refractive error
Authors: Farzanfar Arezoo , Lockett‐Ruiz Veronica , Navarro Rafael , Koppen Carina , Rozema Jos J.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To present a paraxial method to estimate the influence of variations in ocular biometry on changes in refractive error (S) at a population level and apply this method to literature data.

Methods

Error propagation was applied to two methods of eye modelling, referred to as the simple method and the matrix method. The simple method defines S as the difference between the axial power and the whole‐eye power, while the matrix method uses more accurate ray transfer matrices. These methods were applied to literature data, containing the mean ocular biometry data from the SyntEyes model, as well as populations of premature infants with or without retinopathy, full‐term infants, school children and healthy and diabetic adults.

Results

Applying these equations to 1000 SyntEyes showed that changes in axial length provided the most important contribution to the variations in refractive error (57%–64%), followed by lens power/gradient index power (16%–31%) and the anterior corneal radius of curvature (10%–13%). All other components of the eye contributed <4%. For young children, the largest contributions were made by variations in axial length, lens and corneal power for the simple method (67%, 23% and 8%, respectively) and by variations in axial length, gradient lens power and anterior corneal curvature for the matrix method (55%, 21% and 14%, respectively). During myopisation, the influence of variations in axial length increased from 54.5% to 73.4%, while changes in corneal power decreased from 9.82% to 6.32%. Similarly, for the other data sets, the largest contribution was related to axial length.

Conclusions

This analysis confirms that the changes in ocular refraction were mostly associated with variations in axial length, lens and corneal power. The relative contributions of the latter two varied, depending on the particular population.
Medicago truncatula β‐glucosidase 17 contributes to drought and salt tolerance through antioxidant flavonoid accumulation
Authors: Du Wenxuan , Yang Junfeng , Li Qian , Jiang Wenbo , Pang Yongzhen
Published: April 2024

Flavonoids are usually present in forms of glucosides in plants, which could be catabolized by β‐glucosidase (BGLU) to form their corresponding flavonoid aglycones. In this study, we isolated three abiotic‐responsive BGLU genes (MtBGLU17, MtBGLU21 and MtBGLU22) from Medicago truncatula, and found only the recombinant MtBGLU17 protein could catalyse the hydrolysis of flavonoid glycosides. The recombinant MtBGLU17 protein is active towards a variety of flavonoid glucosides, including glucosides of flavones (apigenin and luteolin), flavonols (kaempferol and quercetin), isoflavones (genistein and daidzein) and flavanone (naringenin). In particular, the recombinant MtBGLU17 protein preferentially hydrolyses flavonoid‐7‐O‐glucosides over their corresponding 3‐O‐glucosides. The content of luteoin‐7‐O‐glucoside was reduced in the MtBGLU17 overexpression plants but increased in the Tnt‐1 insertional mutant lines, whereas luteoin content was increased in the MtBGLU17 overexpression plants but reduced in the Tnt‐1 insertional mutant lines. Under drought and salt (NaCl) treatment, the MtBGLU17 overexpression lines showed relatively higher DPPH content, and higher CAT and SOD activity than the wild type control. These results indicated that overexpression lines of MtBGLU17 possess higher antioxidant activity and thus confer drought and salt tolerance, implying MtBGLU17 could be potentially used as a candidate gene to improve plant abiotic stress tolerance.
Adult food and species type influence the nutritional physiology and tolerance of two flour beetles to the extract of Dennettia tripetala (G. Baker)
Authors: Oyeniyi Emmanuel Ayobami , Omotoso Olumuyiwa Temitope , Barbosa Fernando , Adeyemi Joseph Adewuyi
Published: April 2024

Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) and Tribolium confusum (Jacquelin du Val) are common and damaging pests of stored grain flours in several homes and flour mill industries worldwide. This study examines how food, species, concentration, and exposure time affect the susceptibility and nutritional physiology of T. castaneum and T. confusum when exposed to partially purified methanolic fruit extract of Dennettia tripetala (G. Baker) and two of its major active compounds (linalool and 2‐phenylnitroethane). Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was used to evaluate the chemical profile of the partially purified plant extract. Thirty‐two compounds were found in the plant, including established insecticidal and insectifuge compounds such as linalool, cis‐vaccenic acid, 2‐phenylnitroethane, and linoleic acid, among others. The interactions among the factors have a differential impact on the susceptibility and nutritional indices of both Tribolium species to D. tripetala, linalool and 2‐phenylnitroethane. According to LC50 values, linalool and 2‐phenylnitroethane were the most and least toxic to both beetles, respectively. With increasing extract concentrations, all nutritional indices except feeding deterrence decreased. Relative to controls, linalool and 2‐phenylnitroethane evoked the highest and least reduction, respectively, in beetles' nutritional indices. Treated corn discs deterred both species over treated wheat discs, regardless of insecticide type. T. castaneum had a higher overall food consumption than T. confusum. Regardless of insecticide type, the relative growth rate was higher in T. confusum and T. castaneum fed with treated corn and wheat discs, respectively. D. tripetala extract, linalool, and 2‐phenylnitroethane showed higher post‐ingestion toxicity to T. castaneum than T. confusum. This study emphasises the importance of certain intrinsic factors, like beetles' species and cereal food types, when managing Tribolium species with plant‐based insecticides. The various data obtained from this study will help researchers and pesticide manufacturers formulate effective biopesticides from linalool and 2‐phenylnitroethane to control Tribolium species on corn and wheat flours.
Tuning properties of functionalized azobenzene photoswitches through variation of substitution and their position
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Subhajit
Published: April 2024

This perspective article features the recent work published in this journal on functionalized azobenzene photoswitches, studied by Venkataramani and coworkers [Grewal, S. et al (2024) Photochem. Photobiol., 1–16]. Azobenzene‐based photochromic molecules undergo reversible trans‐to‐cis isomerization under exposure to light. The reverse cis‐to‐trans isomerization also takes place under thermal conditions in the dark. The study explores how different functional groups at various positions affect the responses of these compounds to light, their thermal stabilities, the isomeric ratios in the photostationary states, and their supramolecular behavior. Results show varied thermal half‐lives, influenced by the terminal groups and their positions. Aggregation studies reveal the formation of supramolecular architectures, from microcrystals to gels with these systems. Despite complexities with the large volume of work with 30 different compounds, the research provides insights into designing efficient photochromic supramolecular motifs.
Mutations of PsPALM1a and PsPALM1b associated with the afila phenotype in Pea
Authors: Yuan Zhuo , Xie Xiaoting , liu Mingli , He Yexin , He Liangliang
Published: April 2024

Semi‐leafless represents an advantageous plant architecture in pea breeding due to its ability to enhance resistance to lodging and potentially to powdery mildew. The introduction of semi‐leafless pea varieties is considered a seminal advancement in pea breeding over the past half‐century. The afila (af) mutation leads to the replacement of lateral leaflets by highly branched tendrils; combined with the semi‐dwarfing le mutation, it forms the semi‐leafless cultivated variety. In this study, we identified that mutations in two tandemly‐arrayed genes encoding Cys(2)His(2) zinc finger transcription factors, PsPALM1a and PsPALM1b, were closely associated with the afila phenotype. These two genes may be deleted in the af mutant. In situ hybridization showed that both genes exhibit specific expression in early leaflet primordia. Furthermore, suppression of PsPALM1a/PsPALM1b resulted in a high frequency of conversion of lateral leaflets into tendrils. In conclusion, our study provides genetic evidence demonstrating that mutations in PsPALM1a and PsPALM1b are responsible for the af locus, contributing to a better understanding of compound leaf formation in peas and offering new insights for breeding applications related to afila.
Experiences with and unmet needs for medication abortion support: A qualitative study with US abortion support providers
Authors: Seymour Jane W. , Ruggiero Samantha , Ranker Lynsie , Thompson Terri‐Ann
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Quality abortion care must be person‐centered. Although academic literature has focused on full‐spectrum and abortion doulas supporting instrumentation abortion (also referred to as procedural abortion) clients, clients undergoing medication abortion remain understudied and may have unique needs. We aimed to understand United States (US) abortion support providers' perceptions of medication abortion clients' support needs by exploring which needs they address, which needs remain unmet, and how remote support provision might help address client needs.

Methodology

Between April and October 2018, we conducted 60‐ to 90‐min semi‐structured, in‐depth interviews by telephone with medication abortion support providers. The interviews focused on their experiences providing support to medication abortion clients in the US. We used a deductive thematic analysis approach.

Results

We interviewed 16 abortion support providers affiliated with nine US‐based organizations. Six participants provided in‐person support to medication abortion clients, five provided remote support, and five provided both remote and in‐person support. Both in‐person and remote providers described offering support that addressed clients' informational, emotional, physical, spiritual, and logistical needs. Through participant narratives, we identified interwoven benefits and challenges to remote support care provision. Participants highlighted that most medication abortion clients did not have a support provider.

Discussion

Participants revealed that abortion support providers, including remote support providers, can be a critical component of high‐quality abortion care provision. More work is needed to ensure all abortion clients have access to support services as the abortion landscape in the US continues to evolve.
A framework for the restoration of seed dispersal and pollination
Authors: Landim Anna R. , Guimarães Paulo R. , Fernandez Fernando A. S. , Dias André T. C
Published: April 2024

Species reintroduction is a management strategy to restore ecosystem functioning through the reestablishment of ecological interactions and related ecological processes, like pollination and seed dispersal. Selecting the best species to achieve this goal remains challenging. We present a trait‐based framework to estimate the effects of species reintroductions on seed dispersal and pollination. Our framework assesses the potential contribution of a consumer species (e.g. seed disperser) by considering both the originality of its interactions and the availability of resources it consumes. Originality refers to the degree of uniqueness versus redundancy of a species' interactions compared with the interactions of the current consumer community. Resource availability, defined by the distribution of trait values in the resource community that enable interactions (like fruit size), determines the potential magnitude of a species' effect. The framework also allows assigning different weights to unique interactions, thereby facilitating decisions on whether to prioritize species that potentially add unique interactions if selected for reintroduction. Using our framework, we compared the potential effects of two reintroduced frugivores (agoutis and howler monkeys) on seed dispersal in an Atlantic Forest site. While both species have similar potential effects when not accounting for interaction originality, howlers interact with more common fruit's trait values, whereas agoutis have more unique interactions and with a broader variety of trait values. We also provide ways of generalizing our approach to include other factors, e.g. species abundances, to assess the consequences of other scenarios affecting community composition, such as species extinctions and invasions.
Lost in the pandemic: COVID‐19's impact on health professions educators
Authors: Newman Lori R. , Nagler Alisa , Rudd Mariah , Blanchard Rebecca D. , Whicker Shari A. , Winn Ariel S. , Cohen Amy P. , Parry Gareth , Leichtner Alan M. , Kesselheim Jennifer C.
Published: April 2024

Background

Minimal research has explored the pandemic's impact on health professions educators (HPEs). Given that health professions educator academies provide centralised support and professional development to HPEs through communities of practice and promoting education at their institutions, it is important to examine how academies met HPEs' needs during the pandemic. This study investigates the COVID‐19 pandemic's effects on HPEs and examines how academies supported HPEs' educational roles during the pandemic.

Methods

Using a mixed‐methods approach, the authors surveyed United States educator academy members on changes in HPEs' activities, emphasising clinical and educational tasks and work–life integration. Participants shared their academies' innovations and support responses. Data were analysed using chi‐square and content analyses.

Findings

Twenty percent of 2784 recipients (n = 559) completed the survey. Most respondents indicated the pandemic caused them to spend more time on clinical and education leadership/administration than before the pandemic. HPEs integrated innovative instructional strategies, yet many shifted away from teaching, mentoring and scholarship. Over half were dissatisfied with work–life integration during the pandemic. Females, especially, reported that professional work was compromised by personal caregiving. Academies increased their range of member services; however, they did not fully meet their members' needs, including providing expanded professional development and advocating on HPE's behalf for increased protected time dedicated to educator responsibilities.

Discussion

HPEs faced unprecedented challenges in their personal and professional lives during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Neglecting the needs of HPEs amidst global crises poses a substantial threat to the quality of education for upcoming generations of health care professionals.
Cost analysis of care and blood transfusions in patients with Major Obstetric Haemorrhage in Ireland
Authors: Lutfi Ahmed , McElroy Brendan , Greene Richard A. , Higgins John R.
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives

Obstetric haemorrhage is the leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. We aimed to estimate the economic cost of Major Obstetric Haemorrhage (MOH) and the cost of therapeutic blood components used in the management of MOH in Ireland.

Materials and Methods

We performed a nationwide cross‐sectional study utilising top‐down and bottom‐up costing methods on women who experienced MOH during the years 2011–2013. Women with MOH were allocated to Diagnostic Related Groups (DRGs) based on the approach to MOH management (MOH group). The total number of blood components used for MOH treatment and the corresponding costs were recorded. A control group representative of a MOH‐free maternity population was designed with predicted costs. All costs were expressed in Euro (€) using 2022 prices and the incremental cost of MOH to maternity costs was calculated. Cost contributions are expressed as percentages from the estimated total cost.

Results

A total of 447 MOH cases were suitable for sorting into DRGs. The estimated total cost of managing women who experienced MOH is approximately €3.2 million. The incremental cost of MOH is estimated as €1.87 million. The estimated total cost of blood components used in MOH management was €1.08 million and was based on an estimated total of 3997 products transfused. Red blood cell transfusions accounted for the highest contribution (20.22%) to MOH total cost estimates compared to other blood components.

Conclusions

The total cost of caring for women with MOH in Ireland was approximately €3.2 million with blood component transfusions accounting for between one third and one half of the cost.
Lipidomic changes occurring in platelets during extended cold storage
Authors: Green Sarah M. , Padula Matthew P. , Dodgen Tyren M. , Batarseh Amani , Marks Denese C. , Johnson Lacey
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Cold storage is being implemented as an alternative to conventional room‐temperature storage for extending the shelf‐life of platelet components beyond 5–7 days. The aim of this study was to characterise the lipid profile of platelets stored under standard room‐temperature or cold (refrigerated) conditions.

Methods

Matched apheresis derived platelet components in 60% PAS‐E/40% plasma (n = 8) were stored at room‐temperature (20–24°C with agitation) or in the cold (2–6°C without agitation). Platelets were sampled on day 1, 5 and 14. The lipidome was assessed by ultra‐pressure liquid chromatography ion mobility quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC IMS QToF). Changes in bioactive lipid mediators were measured by ELISA.

Results

The total phospholipid and sphingolipid content of the platelets and supernatant were 44 544 ± 2915 μg/mL and 38 990 ± 10 880 μg/mL, respectively, and was similar over 14 days, regardless of storage temperature. The proportion of the procoagulant lipids, phosphatidylserine (PS) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), increased by 2.7% and 12.2%, respectively, during extended cold storage. Cold storage for 14 days increased sphingomyelin (SM) by 4.1% and decreased ceramide by 1.6% compared to day 1. Further, lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) species remained unchanged during cold storage for 14 days. The concentration of 12‐ and 15‐hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (HETE) were lower in the supernatant of cold‐stored platelets than room‐temperature controls stored for 14 days.

Conclusion

The lipid profile of platelets was relatively unchanged during storage for 5 days, regardless of temperature. However, during extended cold storage (14 days) the proportion of the procoagulant lipids, PS and PE, increased, while LPC and bioactive lipids were stable.
Numerical Analysis of Non-Fourier Model-Based Bio-Heat Transfer in the Laser-Irradiated Axisymmetric Living Tissue
Authors: Kishore Pankaj , Kumar Sumit
Published: April 2024

The current work is related to the numerical investigation of non-Fourier heat transfer inside the short-pulsed laser-irradiated axisymmetric soft tissue phantom. It utilizes the modified discrete ordinate method (DOM) to solve the transient radiative transfer equation (TRTE) for determining the intensity field. The laser energy absorbed by the soft tissue phantom behaves like a source in the Fourier/non-Fourier heat conduction model based-bioheat transfer equation (BHTE), which is solved by employing the finite volume method (FVM) to determine the temperature distribution. Despite the prevalent use of non-Fourier BHTE for this purpose, a second law analysis is considered crucial to detect any potential anomalies. Equilibrium entropy production rates (EPR) are initially computed based on classical irreversible thermodynamics (CIT), which may yield negative values, possibly contravening the second law. Consequently, the EPR based on CIT is adjusted using the extended irreversible thermodynamics (EIT) hypothesis to ensure positivity. After that, the current research findings are compared with the results from the literature, and found good agreement between them. Then, the independent study is performed to select the optimum grid size, control angle size, and time-step. A comparative analysis of results between the traditional Fourier and non-Fourier models has been performed. The impact of different parameters on the temperature fields and EPRs is discussed. The effect of the optical properties of the inhomogeneity on the temperature distribution has been investigated. This study may help to enhance the effectiveness of the laser-based photothermal therapy (PTT).
Simulation and Experiments on Sealing and Extrusion Failure on Application of Deep-Sea Adsorption by Differential Pressure
Authors: Sun Shirui , Zou Yutang , Zhang Zengmeng , Yang Yuhang , Che Jinkai , Gong Yongjun
Published: April 2024

Negative pressure adsorption can make use of deep-sea environmental pressure to provide a great adsorption force and it is a suitable fixed method for deep-sea applications. However, the deep-sea environment puts forward higher requirements for the sealing performance of negative pressure suction cups, so a more adaptable suction cup sealing device is needed. In this paper, a deep-sea adsorption device with rigid suction cups is designed, and the suction cup is sealed by O-ring. The influence of both section diameter and inner diameter of the O-ring on its preload, suction force, and extrusion failure is tested and analyzed. Moreover, the fitting formula is given to guide the selection of the section diameter and inner diameter of the O-ring. Furthermore, according to the summary of the experimental phenomenon, dual-accumulators configuration with stage pressures method is created, and the theoretical basis that the suction cup can achieve a larger suction force under the condition of a small preload force is given, which can provide a reference for the design of deep-sea adsorption devices and sealing structure.
Design, Multi-Point Optimization, and Analysis of Diffusive Stator Vanes to Enable Turbine Integration Into Rotating Detonation Engines
Authors: Grasa Sergio , Paniagua Guillermo
Published: April 2024

Pressure gain combustion is considered a possible path toward improved thermal cycle efficiency and reduced carbon emissions. However, ad hoc turbine designs are required to maximize the thermodynamic potential; the new turbomachinery should be suited for the oscillations in flow conditions generated by the detonation combustor, which are very different from conventional gas turbines. This paper investigates the design, optimization, and analysis of diffusive stator vanes operating under large inlet flow angles in the high-subsonic regime. First, the design methodology is outlined, focusing on the geometric requirements to ingest high Mach number flow and the parametric modeling of the endwall and the 3D vane pressure and suction sides. Then, the impact of the inlet flow angle on the flow field and vane design is studied through a multi-point, multi-objective optimization with three different inlet angles, performed using steady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes simulations. Remarkable reductions in pressure loss and stator-induced rotor forcing are attained while maintaining an extensive operating envelope and high flow turning. Moreover, several design guidelines are provided based on the analysis of the optimized geometries. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed methodology is verified with an unsteady assessment of the baseline and optimized vane designs.
In situ atom-resolved observation of Si (111) 7×7 surface with F radical and Ar ion irradiation simulated atomic layer etching
Authors: Tsutsumi Takayoshi , Asano Atsuki , Kondo Hiroki , Ishikawa Kenji , Sekine Makoto , Hori Masaru
Published: April 2024

Ar ions with controlled energy and doses, along with radicals in CF4 plasma, were irradiated separately onto a Si (111) 7 × 7 surface by using a plasma beam reactor. The crystal structure and the chemical bonds on the surface were analyzed by scanning tunneling microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy without air exposure of the samples. The SiF layer formed by F radical irradiation was completely removed by a desorption reaction induced by heating at 600 °C, resulting in an atomically flat surface that maintained the crystal structure. The 7 × 7 structure, which was reconstructed by each irradiation process alone, was not reconstructed because of the synergistic effects of F radicals and Ar ions in the cyclic CF4/Ar plasma used to simulate an atomic layer etching process. The cyclic CF4/Ar plasma process inhibited the reconstruction of the crystal structure by forming a mixture region that included Si, F, and C atoms.
Phase-shifted counterpropagating atmospheric pressure plasma jets: Characterization and interaction with materials
Authors: Johnson Michael J. , Brown Gabriel H. , Boris David R. , Petrova Tzvetelina B. , Walton Scott G.
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the interaction between two counterpropagating atmospheric pressure plasma jets when their respective streamer ignition times are varied by introducing a phase difference between the AC waveforms used to generate them. When the plasma jets are driven in phase, the streamers form at approximately the same time, resulting in a dark region between the two jets. As the phase difference increases, this dark region shifts toward one of the electrodes. With a sufficiently large phase difference, this region vanishes, giving rise to a uniform plasma channel spanning the distance between the electrodes. High-speed imaging reveals that the interaction between the streamers within the channel reduces the streamer propagation length at intermediate phase differences. At large phase differences, the propagation distance of each streamer is enhanced due to the absence of the opposing streamer. Increasing the phase from 0° to 160° reduced the power consumption of the two jets by about 10%, while there was no significant change in the electron density or the N2 vibrational/rotational temperature. Finally, we show how phase-shifting enhances the interaction with three-dimensional objects located between the opposing jets, enabling the treatment of 3D substrates.
Group-IV based pin photodetectors for C-band application
Authors: Oehme Michael , Wanitzek Maurice , Spieth Christian , Seidel Lukas , Hack Michael , Kasper Erich , Schwarz Daniel
Published: April 2024

GeSn photodetectors with Sn contents between 0% and 6.5% were grown pseudomorphically on Ge virtual substrates on Si by molecular beam epitaxy. Based on the similar functional dependence of the current-voltage characteristics, we conclude that a similar crystal defect is the cause of the recombination/generation centers in both the GeSn and the Ge reference sample. We found that dislocations are not the predominant recombination type. The signal-to-background ratio is a proper quantitative measure for the comparison of heterostructure photodetectors and with near zero bias operation in the C-band, the values of around 104 were obtained with 1 mW light input. For C-band operation, the optimal Sn contents are found to be between 2% and 4%.
A data-driven assessment of harmony in Quebec French [e] and [ε]
Authors: Riverin-Coutlée Josiane , Gubian Michele
Published: April 2024

This study is concerned with the aperture of the mid vowel /E/ in nonfinal syllables in Quebec French. The hypothesis tested is that in underived disyllabic words, the aperture of /E/ would be determined via harmony with the following vowel. Based on predictions from a classifier trained on acoustic properties of word-final vowels, nonfinal vowels were labeled as mid-close or mid-open. Although distant coarticulatory effects were observed, the harmony hypothesis was not supported. The results revealed a bias toward a mid-open quality and a reduced acoustic distinction, which warrant further investigation.
The application value of cerebrospinal fluid immunoglobulin in tuberculous meningitis
Authors: He Hua , Xu Jun , Peng Qin , Li Yang , Huang Ying , Zhang Yan-Ling , Li Xiang
Published: April 2024

This article aims to study the value of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) immunoglobulin in differential diagnosis, prediction, and prognosis of tuberculous meningitis (TBM). The clinical data of 65 patients with TBM in our hospital were collected, and 65 patients with cryptococcal meningitis (CM) were enrolled in 1:1 matching. Relevant data were collected for comparison. CSFs IgG [331.51 (164.85, 645.00) vs 129.00 (55.05, 251.00) ng/mL], IgM [22.38 (8.52, 40.18) vs 6.08 (2.19, 23.30) ng/mL], and IgA [64.11 (21.44, 115.48) vs 16.55 (4.76, 30.36) ng/mL] in the TBM group were higher than those in the CM group (
P
< 0.001). In the TBM group, after 24 weeks of treatment, the CSFs IgG, IgM, and IgA were significantly decreased, and the difference was statistically significant (
P
< 0.05). The predictive results of CSF immunoglobulin for TBM showed that IgG, IgM, and IgA all had some predictive value for TBM, and the combined predictive value of the three was the highest, with an area under the curve of 0.831 (95% CI: 0.774–0.881). Logistic regression analysis of CSF immunoglobulins and TBM prognosis showed that IgG [odds ratio (OR) = 4.796, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.575–8.864], IgM (OR = 3.456, 95% CI: 2.757–5.754), and IgA (OR = 4.371, 95% CI: 2.731–5.856) were TBM risk factors for poor prognosis in patients. The levels of IgG, IgM, and IgA in CSF were positively correlated with the severity of cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in TBM patients (
R
2
= 0.542,
F
= 65.392,
P
< 0.05). CSFs IgG, IgM, and IgA can be used as a routine monitoring index for TBM patients, which has a certain reference value in differential diagnosis and efficacy evaluation.

IMPORTANCE

In clinical practice, physicians can determine the physical conditions of patients based on the levels of cerebrospinal fluids (CSFs) IgG, IgM, and IgA. Higher levels of CSFs IgG, IgM, and IgA suggest more possibility of tuberculous meningitis and worse prognosis and magnetic resonance imaging manifestations.
Shallow mantle cycle of subducted sedimentary limestone indicated by carbonate xenoliths
Authors: Xue Shuo , Ling Ming-Xing
Published: April 2024

In the subduction zone, carbon (C) release from the subducted plate into the mantle wedge takes place by various mechanisms, including metamorphic degassing, carbonate dissolution, and hydrous melting. Recent studies have highlighted the significant role of buoyant limestone diapirs in facilitating C recycling during subduction processes. Here, we report that the Hannuoba carbonate xenoliths of eastern China were introduced into the shallow mantle in the form of sedimentary limestone diapirs. We conducted a comprehensive study of the Hannuoba carbonate xenoliths using petrological analysis, major- and trace-element analysis, in situ zircon dating, and C-O isotopic analysis techniques. The whole-rock major and trace elements, along with high δ18OSMOW values (22.8‰–23.2‰), indicate that the protolith of Hannuoba carbonate xenoliths consists of sedimentary limestones. The spectral age peaks of detrital zircons (400–100 Ma, 500–450 Ma, 2.0–1.6 Ga, and 2.8–2.2 Ga) suggest that the primary source of the protolith is the North China Craton. When sedimentary limestone diapirs enter into the mantle wedge, they undergo partial melting under high-temperature conditions. This process results in the melting of low-melting point pelitic components, while leaving behind resistant minerals such as pure calcite. Due to its low density and viscosity, this pure limestone component will continue to migrate upward and assimilate with the mantle peridotite. In this process, the pure calcites are preserved in the shallow mantle in a solid-state form rather than as carbonatitic melts. The discovery of graphite and spinel in the Hannuoba carbonate xenoliths indicates that the depth of formation of the sedimentary limestone diapirs does not exceed 2.5 GPa (<70 km). The calcite in Hannuoba carbonate xenoliths exhibits extremely low δ13CVPDB (−11.8‰ to −11.0‰) and high δ18OSMOW (22.8‰–23.2‰) contents. This characteristic C-O isotopic signature can be explained by the Rayleigh decarbonation of sedimentary limestones under upper-mantle conditions (<3 GPa). Based on calculations, the Hannuoba carbonate xenoliths are a product of subducted sedimentary limestone experiencing 99% volume decarbonation. Through this metamorphic decarbonation process, limestone diapirs release a significant amount of CO2 into the arc magma system. During subduction processes, sedimentary carbonate rocks can be recycled to the mantle wedge of island arcs as solid limestone diapirs. The C flux released by this mechanism cannot be ignored.
Scoria cone erosional degradation by incision: Different behaviors in three volcanic fields reflect environmental conditions
Authors: Zarazúa-Carbajal M.C. , Valentine G.A. , De la Cruz-Reyna S.
Published: April 2024

Alluvial processes acting on scoria cones cause the development of a drainage network composed of radially distributed rills and gullies parallel to the volcanic edifice's downslope direction. We quantify the degree of drainage network development by applying the Average Erosion Index (AEI) method to scoria cones from the arid to semi-arid Lunar Crater volcanic field (Nevada, United States) and comparing our results with previously obtained results from two tropical volcanic fields (Sierra Chichinautzin volcanic field and the Parícutin-Tancítaro region, both in central Mexico). We show that the AEI method is useful in determining geomorphic age relations when calibrated separately for each field. Furthermore, the differences in AEI results for the three studied fields indicate that the method provides a way of quantifying the effects of different alluvial erosion rates at volcanic fields across various environments, including a delay in alluvial processes on cones in arid settings that has been qualitatively inferred by previous studies.
Air Composition over the Russian Arctic: 3—Trace Gases
Authors: Antokhina O. Yu. , Antokhin P. N. , Arshinova V. G. , Arshinov M. Yu. , Ancellet G. , Belan B. D. , Belan S. B. , Davydov D. K. , Ivlev G. A. , Kozlov A. V. , Law K. , Nédélec P. , Rasskazchikova T. M. , Paris J.-D. , Savkin D. E. , Simonenkov D. V. , Sklyadneva T. K. , Tolmachev G. N. , Fofonov A. V.
Published: April 2024

Abstract—

Based on the results of a comprehensive experiment conducted in September 2020, the spatial distribution of the following trace gases over the seas of the Russian Arctic are analyzed: carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3), nitrogen oxide and dioxide (NO and NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2). It is shown that the gas concentrations in the surface air layer over the seas (at an altitude of 200 m) vary in the range 18–36 ppb for O3, 60–130 ppb for CO, 0.005–0.12 ppb for NO, 0.10–1.00 ppb for NO2, and 0.06–0.80 ppb for SO2. The distribution of the gases over the water area is heterogeneous over most seas, which most likely reflects differences in their uptake by the ocean and peculiarities of transport from the continent.