bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ranking species in complex ecosystems through nestedness maximization
Authors: Mariani Manuel Sebastian , Mazzilli Dario , Patelli Aurelio , Sels Dries , Morone Flaviano
Published: March 2024

Identifying the rank of species in a complex ecosystem is a difficult task, since the rank of each species invariably depends on the interactions stipulated with other species through the adjacency matrix of the network. A common ranking method in economic and ecological networks is to sort the nodes such that the layout of the reordered adjacency matrix looks maximally nested with all nonzero entries packed in the upper left corner, called Nestedness Maximization Problem (NMP). Here we solve this problem by defining a suitable cost-energy function for the NMP which reveals the equivalence between the NMP and the Quadratic Assignment Problem, one of the most important combinatorial optimization problems, and use statistical physics techniques to derive a set of self-consistent equations whose fixed point represents the optimal nodes’ rankings in an arbitrary bipartite mutualistic network. Concurrently, we present an efficient algorithm to solve the NMP that outperforms state-of-the-art network-based metrics and genetic algorithms. Eventually, our theoretical framework may be easily generalized to study the relationship between ranking and network structure beyond pairwise interactions, e.g. in higher-order networks.
Optimizing cell voltage dependence on size of carbon nanotube-based electrodes in Na-ion and K-ion batteries
Authors: Liu Xia , Gong Jiacheng , Jiang Yizhi , He Xiao , Yang Jinrong
Published: March 2024

The cell voltage is observed to rise as the diameter of the CNTs increase, a result of enhanced electrostatic interactions. Na-ion on (10,10) CNT reaches 1.29 V, but K-ion only 0.59 V, highlighting CNTs' potential for NIBs over KIBs.
Structural characterisation of α-synuclein–membrane interactions and the resulting aggregation using small angle scattering
Authors: Galvagnion Céline , Barclay Abigail , Makasewicz Katarzyna , Marlet Frederik Ravnkilde , Moulin Martine , Devos Juliette M. , Linse Sara , Martel Anne , Porcar Lionel , Sparr Emma , Pedersen Martin Cramer , Roosen-Runge Felix , Arleth Lise , Buell Alexander K.
Published: March 2024

αS binding to DLPS and DMPS leads to a ms fast reversible deformation into disks and rods. Upon further incubation, lipid rods elongate within the same time scale as that of amyloid formation confirming lipids co-assembly with αS into fibrils.
Reversible actuation of α-borophene nanoscrolls
Authors: Fabris Guilherme S. L. , Galvão Douglas S. , Paupitz Ricardo
Published: March 2024

DFT-based simulations are used to investigate the possible existence of boron nanoscrolls, which are shown to be thermally stable and to present a giant and reversible electroactuation.
Ultrafast symmetry-breaking charge separation in Perylenemonoimide-embedded multichromophores: impact of regioisomerism
Authors: Roy Rupam , Chawla Sakshi , Sharma Vikas , Pal Arun K. , Silori Yogita , Datta Ayan , De Arijit K. , Koner Apurba Lal
Published: March 2024

Symmetry-breaking charge separation (SB-CS) has recently evolved as an emerging concept offering its potential to the latest generation of organic photovoltaics.
Acidic chloride electrolyte mediates the high conversion ratio of CO2-to-C2H4 and direct production of Cl2
Authors: Kang Caitao , Ding Chenglong , Li Yao , Li Yanming , Li Changli , He Jingfu
Published: March 2024

We design an efficient catalytic system for C2 and Cl2 formation by coupling CO2R and CER in an acidic environment. It can support C2H4 and Cl2 with 63% and 89% FEs at 700 mA cm−2. This provides a valuable reference for the development of the CO2RR.
A novel multifunctional SERS microfluidic sensor based on ZnO/Ag nanoflower arrays for label-free ultrasensitive detection of bacteria
Authors: Liu Yue , Su Guanwen , Wang Wei , Wei Hongyuan , Dang Leping
Published: March 2024

Design and working principle of bacterial capture and identification using a ZnO/Ag microfluidic SERS sensor array.
Photocatalytic redox-neutral α-C(sp3)–H pyridination of glycine derivatives and N-arylamines with cyanopyridines
Authors: Pan Changduo , Chen Dongdong , Cheng Yangjian , Yu Jin-Tao
Published: March 2024

Photocatalytic α-C(sp3)–H pyridination of N-arylglycine derivatives and N-arylamines with cyanopyridines was developed through radical–radical cross-coupling under redox-neutral conditions.
Steric hindrance of N6-methyl in m6A and its application for specific loci detection
Authors: Xie Xiaoyi , Wei Qi , Han Jingyu , Fang Xin , Yang Wei , Zhou Xiang , Wang Yafen , Weng Xiaocheng
Published: March 2024

The conformation of N6-methyladenine enables the N6 methyl group to block the methylation of N6-methyladenine at the N1 position.
A dual functional tunable terahertz metamaterial absorber based on vanadium dioxide
Authors: Niu Junhao , Hui Qiang , Mo Wei , Yao Qianyu , Gong Haozhuo , Tian Renfang , Zhu Aijun
Published: March 2024

A dual-functional switchable metamaterial absorber based on vanadium dioxide (VO2), which achieves flexible switching between broadband absorption and four-band absorption by adjusting the VO2 conductivity, was proposed.
Adjustment of optical absorption in phosphorene through electron–phonon coupling and an electric field
Authors: Hap Do C. , Hung Le P. Q. , Tung Luong T. , Phuong Le T. T. , Phong Tran Cong
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the optical absorption of monolayer phosphorene, focusing on its response to the electron–phonon coupling (EPC) and an electric field.
Gotta be SAFE: a new framework for molecular design
Authors: Noutahi Emmanuel , Gabellini Cristian , Craig Michael , Lim Jonathan S. C. , Tossou Prudencio
Published: March 2024

SAFE is a novel SMILES-compatible, fragment-based molecular line notation that streamlines molecule generation tasks. Unlike existing line notations, it enforces a sequential depiction of molecular substructures, thus simplifying molecule design.
Construction of zirconium/hafnium-oxo clusters based on a new protection-calix[8]arene
Authors: Wang Fei-Fei , Hou Baoshan
Published: March 2024

A new series of zirconium/hafnium-oxo clusters based on protection-calix[8]arene were successfully synthesized and have been used as an example to study the effect of different metal centers on iodine adsorption.
Molecular structure and composition elucidation of an industrial humin and its fractions
Authors: Constant Sandra , Lancefield Christopher S. , Vogelzang Willem , Pazhavelikkakath Purushothaman Rajeesh Kumar , Frissen Augustinus E. , Houben Klaartje , de Peinder Peter , Baldus Marc , Weckhuysen Bert M. , van Es Daan S. , Bruijnincx Pieter C. A.
Published: March 2024

The structure of humins, a major side-product of carbohydrate biorefining, is complex and to a large extent unknown. A multitechnique characterization of an industrial humin provides new structural insights.
Investigating drug abuse in hair samples using the electrospun PEDOT–CNT nanostructure along with EA-IT-SPME
Authors: Moosavi Negar Sabahi , Yamini Yadollah , Osooli Payam
Published: March 2024

Electrospinning, a simple and low-cost method, is one of the best ways to produce nanoscale porous adsorbents.
Mechanochemical synthesis of biphenyl-derived organic fluorescent materials via solvent-free and ligand-free oxidative homocoupling reactions
Authors: Li Zefeng , Zhang Caihang , Zheng Yingxuan , Deng Ping , Yu Yan
Published: March 2024

The palladium-catalyzed solvent-free and ligand-free oxidative homocoupling reactions of aryl boronic acids via ball-milling are developed to synthesize a series of biphenyl-derived organic fluorescent materials.
Enzyme-mimic catalytic activities and biomedical applications of noble metal nanoclusters
Authors: Pan Xinxin , Yao Yidan , Zhang Manxi , Yuan Xun , Yao Qiaofeng , Hu Wenping
Published: March 2024

This review delves into enzyme-mimic catalysis of metal nanoclusters based on a hierarchical structure scheme reminiscent of proteins. Biomedical applications established by the enzyme-mimic catalysis of clusters have also been outlined.
Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing in Young Children With Childhood Apraxia of Speech: A Multiple Single-Case Design
Authors: Grigos Maria I. , Case Julie , Lu Ying , Lyu Zhuojun
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a multivariate motor speech disorder that requires a motor-based intervention approach. There is limited treatment research on young children with CAS, reflecting a critical gap in the literature given that features of CAS are often in full expression early in development. Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC) is a treatment approach designed for children with severe CAS, yet the use of DTTC with children younger than 3 years of age has not been examined.

Method:

A multiple single-case design was employed to examine the use of DTTC in seven children with CAS (aged 2.5–5 years) over the course of 6 weeks of intervention. Changes in word accuracy were measured in treated words from baseline to posttreatment and from baseline to maintenance (6 weeks posttreatment). Generalization of word accuracy changes to matched untreated words was also examined. A linear mixed-effects model was used to estimate the change in word accuracy for treated and untreated words across all children from baseline to posttreatment and to maintenance. A quasi-Poisson regression model was used to estimate mean change and calculate effect sizes for treated and untreated words.

Results:

Group-level analyses revealed significant changes in word accuracy for treated and untreated words at posttreatment and maintenance. At the child level, six of seven children displayed medium-to-large effect sizes where word accuracy increased in an average of 3.4/5 words across all children. Each child displayed some degree of generalization to untreated targets, specifically for words with the same syllable shape as the treated words.

Conclusions:

These results demonstrate that DTTC can yield positive change in some young children with CAS. Key differences in each child's performance are highlighted.
A machine learning model for Alzheimer's disease prediction
Authors: Rani Pooja , Lamba Rohit , Sachdeva Ravi Kumar , Kumar Karan , Iwendi Celestine
Published: March 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that mostly affects old aged people. Its symptoms are initially mild, but they get worse over time. Although this health disease has no cure, its early diagnosis can help to reduce its impacts. A methodology SMOTE‐RF is proposed for AD prediction. Alzheimer's is predicted using machine learning algorithms. Performances of three algorithms decision tree, extreme gradient boosting (XGB), and random forest (RF) are evaluated in prediction. Open Access Series of Imaging Studies longitudinal dataset available on Kaggle is used for experiments. The dataset is balanced using synthetic minority oversampling technique. Experiments are done on both imbalanced and balanced datasets. Decision tree obtained 73.38% accuracy, XGB obtained 83.88% accuracy and RF obtained a maximum of 87.84% accuracy on the imbalanced dataset. Decision tree obtained 83.15% accuracy, XGB obtained 91.05% accuracy and RF obtained maximum 95.03% accuracy on the balanced dataset. A maximum accuracy of 95.03% is achieved with SMOTE‐RF.
Digital twin‐based multi‐objective autonomous vehicle navigation approach as applied in infrastructure construction
Authors: Lei Tingjun , Sellers Timothy , Luo Chaomin , Cao Lei , Bi Zhuming
Published: March 2024

The widespread adoption of autonomous vehicles has generated considerable interest in their autonomous operation, with path planning emerging as a critical aspect. However, existing road infrastructure confronts challenges due to prolonged use and insufficient maintenance. Previous research on autonomous vehicle navigation has focused on determining the trajectory with the shortest distance, while neglecting road construction information, leading to potential time and energy inefficiencies in real‐world scenarios involving infrastructure development. To address this issue, a digital twin‐embedded multi‐objective autonomous vehicle navigation is proposed under the condition of infrastructure construction. The authors propose an image processing algorithm that leverages captured images of the road construction environment to enable road extraction and modelling of the autonomous vehicle workspace. Additionally, a wavelet neural network is developed to predict real‐time traffic flow, considering its inherent characteristics. Moreover, a multi‐objective brainstorm optimisation (BSO)‐based method for path planning is introduced, which optimises total time‐cost and energy consumption objective functions. To ensure optimal trajectory planning during infrastructure construction, the algorithm incorporates a real‐time updated digital twin throughout autonomous vehicle operations. The effectiveness and robustness of the proposed model are validated through simulation and comparative studies conducted in diverse scenarios involving road construction. The results highlight the improved performance and reliability of the autonomous vehicle system when equipped with the authors’ approach, demonstrating its potential for enhancing efficiency and minimising disruptions caused by road infrastructure development.
A decentralized framework for economic‐resilient operation of networked microgrids, considering demand response program
Authors: Doostizadeh Mohammad , Jalili Hasan , Babaee Abbas
Published: March 2024

The occurrence of natural disasters can disrupt the normal functioning of distribution networks. In this situation, the activeness of distribution networks in the sense of benefiting from energy sources and related structures such as microgrids (MGs) makes them benefit from the capability of structures such as MGs, in case of High‐Impact Low‐Probability (HILP) events, so that consumers are able to disconnect from main grid and trade with other MGs. Thus, the energy management of networked MGs needs a new operation structure to encourage them providing each other with the required energy by creating the necessary incentives. This paper presents a novel cooperative framework aimed at enhancing the resilience of MGs through the establishment of peer‐to‐peer (P2P) energy trading among their constituents. In the present model, MGs engage in energy transactions with one another, aiming to minimize costs through the cooperative operation of networked MGs. The utilization of the suggested model enables MGs to enhance network resilience within the framework of peer‐to‐peer energy transactions, while also achieving cost reductions in comparison to islanding and non‐cooperative operation. The numerical results obtained demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed methodology in enhancing the resilience of MGs and mitigating their operational expenses.
Evaluation of the electrical parameters and performance of floating PV generators
Authors: Maia Cristiana B. , Diniz Antonia Sônia A.C. , Bonfim Saulo Amador , Kazmerski Lawrence L.
Published: March 2024

This study provides evaluation of floating photovoltaics (PV) in the Brazil tropical climate and discusses the specific technical and environmental benefits and limitations. This paper develops a model simulating the annual performance of the photovoltaic generator of a floating photovoltaic plant as a function of a given conditions. The reference is a 1.2-MWp floating-PV system commissioned in 2023 near the city of Grão Mogol, Brazil, in the reservoir of the PCH Santa Marta hydropower plant. The influence of the ambient meteorological and marine parameters on the PV module temperature, current, voltage, and power were evaluated. The simulation uses a reference crystalline-Si PV module and the Engineering Equation Solver (EES). Relevant experimental data, including incident solar radiation, ambient temperature, and wind speed were used as input data for the model. The effect of these parameters on the thermal end electrical parameters was assessed. Although small variations were found throughout the year, significant hourly and daily variations were observed, depending on solar irradiation and ambient and resulting module surface temperatures. The voltage at the maximum power decreases with the increase of the solar module surface temperature. The convective heat transfer rates are higher than the radiative heat transfer rates. This study provides a first-time complete energy and exergy analysis of a floating PV system (FPVS) incorporating the various heat transfer rates, electrical and irradiance parameters, under climate and meteorological conditions for this Brazil location.
Verlängerung der Erythrozytenüberlebensdauer unter Roxadustat
Authors: Biggar Patrick , Krüger Thilo , Mitzner Steffen
Published: March 2024

Neben der eingeschränkten Hämatopoese, okkulten und manifesten Blutverlusten spielen bei Patienten mit chronischer Nierenerkrankung (CKD) bezüglich des Ausmaßes der renalen Anämie die Neuproduktion sowie der Abbau der Erythrozyten eine wesentliche Rolle. Die vorliegende Studie untersuchte den prospektiven Einfluss des seit Sommer 2021 in der EU zugelassenen ersten Vertreters der Klasse der HIF-Stabilisatoren (HIF: hypoxieinduzierbarer Faktor) Roxadustat auf die Überlebensdauer der Erythrozyten in Hämodialysepatienten im Vergleich zu Epoetin. Diese Studie war prospektiv, einarmig und nicht verblindet.
HIF-Stabilisatoren: aktueller Stellenwert bei der Therapie der renalen Anämie
Authors: Strutz Frank
Published: March 2024

Die renale Anämie ist eine häufige Begleiterkrankung bei Patienten mit progredienter chronischer Niereninsuffizienz (CKD: „chronic kidney disease“). Im Stadium der Dialysepflicht sind etwa 80 % der Patienten betroffen und oft therapiebedürftig. Die renale Anämie ist weiterhin eine Ausschlussdiagnose, es müssen daher andere Ursachen für die Anämie ausgeschlossen werden. Die Standardtherapie bei vorliegendem Eisenmangel besteht in der Gabe von Eisen und nachfolgend Erythropoese stimulierenden Agenzien (ESA). Seit 2 Jahren steht in Deutschland mit Roxadustat der erste HIF-Stabilisator (HIF: Hypoxie induzierbarer Faktor) für eine orale Therapie der renalen Anämie zur Verfügung. Diese Präparate bieten weitere Vorteile in Bezug auf die reduzierte Notwendigkeit einer Eisensubstitution und die häufig gute Effektivität bei ESA-resistenten Patienten. Leider haben sie keine Vorteile in Bezug auf kardiovaskuläre Endpunkte, und zudem konnte die renale Progressionsrate gegenüber einer ESA-Vergleichstherapie nicht positiv beeinflusst werden. Positiv zu sehen sind die fehlenden Sicherheitshinweise in Ländern mit langjährigen Erfahrungen wie China und Japan ohne Hinweise auf ein erhöhtes Tumorrisiko, eine Verstärkung einer proliferativen Retinopathie oder ein vermehrtes Zystenwachstum bei Patienten mit autosomal-dominanter polyzystischer Nierenerkrankung.
Messung von Lebensqualität in der Nephrologie
Authors: Hartmann Claudia , Jaha Hanna , Hofmann Lisa , Schappert Anna , Rose Matthias
Published: March 2024

In Studien und bei der Zulassung neuer Medikamente oder Therapien ist die Messung des Einflusses einer Behandlung auf die gesundheitsbezogene Lebensqualität inzwischen Standard. In der Praxis wird das Potenzial der patientenberichteten Gesundheitsmerkmale noch immer unterschätzt und in der Routineversorgung nicht ausreichend genutzt. In diesem Artikel beschreiben wir den theoretischen Hintergrund der gesundheitsbezogenen Lebensqualität, erklären patientenberichtete Gesundheitsmerkmale und wie sie gemessen werden. Abschließend fassen wir die aktuellen Forschungsergebnisse zur gesundheitsbezogenen Lebensqualität bei Nierenersatztherapie zusammen.
Rhizarthrose: Resektionsarthroplastik versus
Resektionssuspensionsarthroplastik – immer noch der Goldstandard?
Authors: Tosun Saskia Carolin , Pietzsch Leonie Barbara , Held Manuel , Daigeler Adrien , Eisler Wiebke
Published: March 2024

Die Rhizarthrose ist eine der häufigsten arthrotischen Veränderungen der Hand,
sodass in den vergangenen Jahren eine Vielzahl an Operationsmethoden entwickelt
wurden. Neben der „klassischen“ Resektionsarthroplastik mit Sehnenaufhängung
oder -interposition werden auch Daumensattelgelenksprothesen immer häufiger
angewendet. Diese kommen jedoch für einen Teil der Patienten wie bei
ausgeprägter Osteoporose, starker Nickelallergie, unzureichender Höhe des
Trapeziums oder STT-Arthrose nicht in Frage. Vor diesem Hintergrund wurde in der
vorliegenden Arbeit herausgearbeitet, ob die „klassischen“ Operationsmethoden
auch weiterhin ihre Daseinsberechtigung haben oder von den Prothesen abgelöst
werden. In einer retrospektiven Studie mit prospektiver Datenerhebung wurden 48
Hände von 45 Patienten 2,5 Jahre nach stattgehabter Resektionsarthroplastik/
Resektions-Suspensions-Interpositionsarthroplastik mittels Flexor carpi radialis
(FCR)- oder Abductor pollicis longus (APL)-Sehnenstreifen in den Jahren
2015–2018 bei diagnostizierter Rhizarthrose in den Stadien II und III nach Eaton
und Littler klinisch nachuntersucht. Das postoperative Outcome wurde anhand der
Beweglichkeit, Griffkraft, Zwei-Punkte-Diskrimination nach Weber, der
postoperativen Zufriedenheit hinsichtlich Schmerzen und Belastbarkeit sowie
anhand des DASH und MHQ-Fragebogens bewertet. Signifikante Unterschiede zeigten
sich weder bei der Dauer der Operation, der Arbeitsunfähigkeit, bis zur
Vollbelastung, den Schmerzen, der Zufriedenheit, noch bei der Griffkraft und
Beweglichkeit. Unabhängig von der verwendeten Operationsmethode bestand eine
nahezu freie Daumen- und Handgelenksbeweglichkeit sowie altersentsprechende
Handkraft. Ruheschmerzen bestanden selten, 48% waren schmerzfrei bei Belastung.
Beim DASH-Fragebogen wurden 20, 14 sowie 22 Punkte und beim MHQ 76, 79 und 79
Punkte erzielt. Somit zeigten die „klassischen“ Operationstechniken ein gutes
postoperatives Ergebnis mit hoher Patientenzufriedenheit. „Neuere Verfahren“ wie
die Endoprothese bieten vielversprechende Ergebnisse bezüglich einer schnellere
Regenerationszeit. Dem gegenüberzustellen sind jedoch eine verlängerte
Operationsdauer und höhere Materialkosten, sodass die Resektionsarthroplastiken
bei geringem Komplikationspotential und einer niedrigeren Revisionsrate ein
langbewährtes Verfahren darstellen und insbesondere bei relativen
Kontraindikationen für eine Endoprothese weiterhin genutzt werden sollten.
Pflegekammer auf der Kippe
Authors: Lukuc Sarah
Published: March 2024

Die Vorzeichen für eine Pflegekammer Baden-Württemberg stehen nicht gut. Zumindest wenn man der Prognose
von Sozialminister Manfred Lucha (Grüne) glaubt, die er nur fünf Tage nach Ablauf der Einspruchsfrist
verkündete – und damit ungeplant früh.
Ist Essen Kopfsache?
Authors: Letzner Frédéric
Published: March 2024

Das Essverhalten ist ein zutiefst psychologisches Thema. Menschen essen nicht nur
aus rationalen Gründen, sondern Emotionen, Erziehung und soziale Einflüsse
spielen dabei eine große Rolle. Die Ernährungspsychologie erforscht, wie unsere
Gedanken, Gefühle und Umwelt das tatsächliche Essverhalten der Menschen
beeinflussen. Sie geht dabei über eine reine Wissensvermittlung hinaus.
Sensory Delights und multisensorisches Marketing
Authors: Abt Tobias
Published: March 2024

Multisensorisches Marketing kann die Bindung zwischen Konsumenten und gesunden
Lebensmitteln durch visuelle, auditive, gustatorische, olfaktorische und
haptische Elemente stärken, um positive Auswirkungen auf Gesundheitswahrnehmung,
bewusstes Essen und langfristige Verhaltensänderungen zu erzielen. Trotz
Präventionspotenzial für multiple Erkrankungen erfordert dies weitere
Langzeitstudien.
Ernährungstherapeutische Beratung komplex erkrankter
Patienten
Authors: Mannhardt Sonja M. , Portius Dorothea
Published: March 2024

Für Menschen mit ernährungsabhängigen Erkrankungen ist es nicht einfach,
qualitativ hochwertige Angebote mit fachlicher und hoher
pädagogisch-psychologischer Professionalisierung zu finden, wie es Pudel bereits
1993 forderte. In diesem Artikel wollen wir die ernährungstherapeutische
Beratung als eigenständige pädagogische Beratungsprofession mit ihren
spezifischen Merkmalen vorstellen.
Trainieren Sie sich glücklich
Authors: Spantzel Dagmar
Published: March 2024

Resiliente Führungskräfte in der Pflege können effektiver führen, Stress bewältigen und damit
Inspirationsquelle für ihre Mitarbeiter sein. So schaffen sie ein unterstützendes Arbeitsumfeld, in dem
alle gerne arbeiten und selbst die Verantwortung für ihr Glück in die Hand nehmen.
Espondilólise e espondilolistese em atletas
Authors: Lima Marcos Vaz de , Caffaro Maria Fernanda Silber , Santili Claudio , Watkins IV Robert G.
Published: March 2024

Este artigo é uma atualização do tema espondilólise e espondilolistese em atletas, do diagnóstico ao tratamento, baseando-se na experiência dos nossos serviços juntamente com uma revisão da literatura.
Homeopathy for Chronic Non-specific Low Back Pain: Study Protocol for a Randomized, Double-Blind, Crossover, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial Investigating the Efficacy of the Biotherapic Lumbar Vertebra (The BIOVERT Trial)
Authors: Adler Ubiratan Cardinalli , Adler Maristela Schiabel , Carrer Helen Nogueira , Dias Deise Lilian Costa , Diniz José Nelson Martins , Grossi Manoela Gomes , Sugimoto Neli Aparecida Martins , Martinez Edson Zangiacomi
Published: March 2024

Background Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP) lacks identifiable anatomical pathology and effective pharmacological treatment. Alternative approaches in homeopathy, specifically clinical homeopathy, utilize ultra-diluted (potentized) biological products. In Brazil, standardized biotherapics from sheep tissues, particularly fifty-millesimal (LM) potencies of sheep Lumbar Vertebra, have shown promise in alleviating CNSLBP.

Objectives Our objective is to present the study protocol of a clinical trial that will assess the efficacy and safety of the biotherapic Lumbar Vertebra LM2 in the short-term management of CNSLBP and to estimate its therapeutic duration.

Methods A randomized, double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled clinical trial spanning 8 weeks per participant was designed. Participants will include 120 individuals (aged 20 to 60 years) with clinically diagnosed CNSLBP by the study's physiotherapist. Exclusion criteria are radicular pain, signs of radiculopathy, specific lumbar spine disorders, pregnancy, or puerperium (up to 60 days after delivery). The medical intervention includes participants being randomly assigned to one of two treatment sequences: homeopathy–placebo or placebo–homeopathy. The treatments will consist of Lumbar Vertebra LM2 oral solution, topical cream, and indistinguishable placebos. Each treatment period will span 2 weeks, with a 4-week washout interval between them. Primary outcome is the assessment of changes in self-reported pain levels using the numeric rating scale (NRS) score, analyzed with a random effects model across both treatment periods. Secondary outcomes are assessment of changes in self-reported disability levels using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), analyzed with a random effects model across both treatment periods, and pain and disability variations, evaluated by the NRS score and ODI respectively, after the first and second treatment periods. Adverse events will be assessed at weeks 2 and 8. Pain medications will be used concomitantly. Adherence will be evaluated by the weight of medication returned/standard weight.

Discussion The BIOVERT (Bioactive Vertebra) trial protocol is designed to investigate a homeopathic strategy for short-term CNSLBP treatment. Favorable outcomes for homeopathy could prompt subsequent studies evaluating the long-term effectiveness of LM potencies of Lumbar Vertebra for CNSLBP.

Trial Registration UMIN Clinical Trials Registry – ID: UMIN000051957
Explaining Variability in Electronic Health Record Effort in Primary Care Ambulatory Encounters
Authors: Overhage J. Marc , Qeadan Fares , Choi Eun Ho Eunice , Vos Duncan , Kroth Philip J.
Published: March 2024

Background Electronic health record (EHR) user interface event logs are fast providing another perspective on the value and efficiency EHR technology brings to health care. Analysis of these detailed usage data has demonstrated their potential to identify EHR and clinical process design factors related to user efficiency, satisfaction, and burnout.

Objective This study aimed to analyze the event log data across 26 different health systems to determine the variability of use of a single vendor's EHR based on four event log metrics, at the individual, practice group, and health system levels.

Methods We obtained de-identified event log data recorded from June 1, 2018, to May 31, 2019, from 26 health systems' primary care physicians. We estimated the variability in total Active EHR Time, Documentation Time, Chart Review Time, and Ordering Time across health systems, practice groups, and individual physicians.

Results In total, 5,444 physicians (Family Medicine: 3,042 and Internal Medicine: 2,422) provided care in a total of 2,285 different practices nested in 26 health systems. Health systems explain 1.29, 3.55, 3.45, and 3.30% of the total variability in Active Time, Documentation Time, Chart Review Time, and Ordering Time, respectively. Practice-level variability was estimated to be 7.96, 13.52, 8.39, and 5.57%, respectively, and individual physicians explained the largest proportion of the variability for those same outcomes 17.09, 27.49, 17.51, and 19.75%, respectively.

Conclusion The most variable physician EHR usage patterns occurs at the individual physician level and decreases as you move up to the practice and health system levels. This suggests that interventions to improve individual users' EHR usage efficiency may have the most potential impact compared with those directed at health system or practice levels.
Back to Babies: Reducing Documentation Time in the NICU
Authors: Patel Shama Y. , Rose Rebecca S. , Webber Emily C.
Published: March 2024

Background There is no accepted best practice for generation and content of daily progress notes in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Objectives This study aimed to implement a consistent documentation standard process for a neonatology provider group at a level IV tertiary care NICU. The primary aim was to improve timeliness of daily progress note completion. Secondary aims were to maintain or improve clinician satisfaction, reduce variability, and reduce attending neonatologist electronic medical record (EMR) documentation tasks.

Methods We formed a work group including advanced practice providers (APPs) and physicians from the NICU that met over 6 months to define the ideal NICU documentation content, map the workflow for documentation, identify gaps in EMR content, and create solutions for each gap. Baseline assessment included a change readiness survey to identify barriers to workflow change and a review of neonatologist signature timestamp to determine time to note completion. Twenty random progress notes were sampled weekly for 6 months prior to implementation of new workflow as well as 6 months postimplementation. Average time to note completion was compared in the pre- and postintervention groups.

Results In total, 962 notes were sampled, 481 each in the pre- and postintervention states. Twenty neonatologists were captured in the preintervention state, 24 in the postintervention state, 18 were captured in both samples. Final note completion time mean improved from 10 hours and 32 minutes (from starting note to final sign) to 8 hours and 40 minutes (p < 0.01). Those sampled in both epochs improved from 10 hours and 6 minutes to 8 hours and 30 minutes (p < 0.05).

Conclusion Progress notes generated by neonatologists are completed earlier than those generated by an APP with a Neonatologist addendum. Specialty-specific education and training are critical to high satisfaction in large EMR workflow transitions.
Potential of physics-informed neural networks for solving fluid flow problems with parametric boundary conditions
Authors: Lorenzen F. , Zargaran A. , Janoske U.
Published: March 2024

Fluid flows are present in various fields of science and engineering, so their mathematical description and modeling is of high practical importance. However, utilizing classical numerical methods to model fluid flows is often time consuming and a new simulation is needed for each modification of the domain, boundary conditions, or fluid properties. As a result, these methods have limited utility when it comes to conducting extensive parameter studies or optimizing fluid systems. By utilizing recently proposed physics-informed neural networks (PINNs), these limitations can be addressed. PINNs approximate the solution of a single or system of partial differential equations (PDEs) by artificial neural networks (ANNs). The residuals of the PDEs are used as the loss function of the ANN, while the boundary condition is imposed in a supervised manner. Hence, PDEs are solved by performing a nonconvex optimization during the training of the ANN instead of solving a system of equations. Although this relatively new method cannot yet compete with classical numerical methods in terms of accuracy for complex problems, this approach shows promising potential as it is mesh-free and suitable for parametric solution of PDE problems. This is achieved without relying on simulation data or measurement information. This study focuses on the impact of parametric boundary conditions, specifically a variable inlet velocity profile, on the flow calculations. For the first time, a physics-based penalty term to avoid the suboptimal solution along with an efficient way of imposing parametric boundary conditions within PINNs is presented.
Investigation on gas–liquid–solid three-phase flow characteristics in aircraft wastewater pipes
Authors: Zhang Helei , Fang Xiande , Zhang Yuying , Wu Huixiang
Published: March 2024

The aircraft wastewater system is an important system for civil aircraft. The wastewater is transported through the pipeline under the pressure difference between the cabin and the vacuum wastewater tank, and its flow time and characteristics are crucial for the system design. In this paper, the gas–liquid–solid flow of aircraft wastewater is investigated using the Euler–Euler–Euler multiphase flow numerical simulation method. The influencing factors of wastewater flow are analyzed. Afterward, the impact of different factors on the flow time and characteristics is analyzed, such as pressure differences between the cabin and the tank, pipeline length, pipeline inner diameter, and the disturbance for a straight long pipeline. The results show that the wastewater flow time is reduced from 6.4 to 2.6 s with the increase in the pressure difference from 20 to 60 kPa and increased from 3.4 to 10.2 s with the increase in the pipeline length from 30 to 70 m. The results obtained provide a modern theoretical basis for the design of such systems of vacuum wastewater and have a wide range of applications not only in aviation but also in other modern kinds of transport (rail, shipping), contributing to reducing their negative impact on the environment.
Root-exuded specialized metabolites reduce arsenic toxicity in maize
Authors: Caggìa Veronica , Wälchli Jan , Deslandes-Hérold Gabriel , Mateo Pierre , Robert Christelle A. M. , Guan Hang , Bigalke Moritz , Spielvogel Sandra , Mestrot Adrien , Schlaeppi Klaus , Erb Matthias
Published: March 2024

By releasing specialized metabolites, plants modify their environment. Whether and how specialized metabolites protect plants against toxic levels of trace elements is not well understood. We evaluated whether benzoxazinoids, which are released into the soil by major cereals, can confer protection against arsenic toxicity. Benzoxazinoid-producing maize plants performed better in arsenic-contaminated soils than benzoxazinoid-deficient mutants in the greenhouse and the field. Adding benzoxazinoids to the soil restored the protective effect, and the effect persisted to the next crop generation via positive plant–soil feedback. Arsenate levels in the soil and total arsenic levels in the roots were lower in the presence of benzoxazinoids. Thus, the protective effect of benzoxazinoids is likely soil-mediated and includes changes in soil arsenic speciation and root accumulation. We conclude that exuded specialized metabolites can enhance protection against toxic trace elements via soil-mediated processes and may thereby stabilize crop productivity in polluted agroecosystems.
Ferredoxin reduction by hydrogen with iron functions as an evolutionary precursor of flavin-based electron bifurcation
Authors: Brabender Max , Henriques Pereira Delfina P. , Mrnjavac Natalia , Schlikker Manon Laura , Kimura Zen-Ichiro , Sucharitakul Jeerus , Kleinermanns Karl , Tüysüz Harun , Buckel Wolfgang , Preiner Martina , Martin William F.
Published: March 2024

Autotrophic theories for the origin of metabolism posit that the first cells satisfied their carbon needs from CO
2
and were chemolithoautotrophs that obtained their energy and electrons from H
2
. The acetyl-CoA pathway of CO
2
fixation is central to that view because of its antiquity: Among known CO
2
fixing pathways it is the only one that is i) exergonic, ii) occurs in both bacteria and archaea, and iii) can be functionally replaced in full by single transition metal catalysts in vitro. In order to operate in cells at a pH close to 7, however, the acetyl-CoA pathway requires complex multi-enzyme systems capable of flavin-based electron bifurcation that reduce low potential ferredoxin—the physiological donor of electrons in the acetyl-CoA pathway—with electrons from H
2
. How can the acetyl-CoA pathway be primordial if it requires flavin-based electron bifurcation? Here, we show that native iron (Fe
0
), but not Ni
0
, Co
0
, Mo
0
, NiFe, Ni
2
Fe, Ni
3
Fe, or Fe
3
O
4
, promotes the H
2
-dependent reduction of aqueous
Clostridium pasteurianum
ferredoxin at pH 8.5 or higher within a few hours at 40 °C, providing the physiological function of flavin-based electron bifurcation, but without the help of enzymes or organic redox cofactors. H
2
-dependent ferredoxin reduction by iron ties primordial ferredoxin reduction and early metabolic evolution to a chemical process in the Earth’s crust promoted by solid-state iron, a metal that is still deposited in serpentinizing hydrothermal vents today.
Activation of polyamine catabolism promotes glutamine metabolism and creates a targetable vulnerability in lung cancer
Authors: Han Xinlu , Wang Deyu , Yang Liao , Wang Ning , Shen Jianliang , Wang Jinghan , Zhang Lei , Chen Li , Gao Shenglan , Zong Wei-Xing , Wang Yongbo
Published: March 2024

Polyamines are a class of small polycationic alkylamines that play essential roles in both normal and cancer cell growth. Polyamine metabolism is frequently dysregulated and considered a therapeutic target in cancer. However, targeting polyamine metabolism as monotherapy often exhibits limited efficacy, and the underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood. Here we report that activation of polyamine catabolism promotes glutamine metabolism, leading to a targetable vulnerability in lung cancer. Genetic and pharmacological activation of spermidine/spermine N1-acetyltransferase 1 (SAT1), the rate-limiting enzyme of polyamine catabolism, enhances the conversion of glutamine to glutamate and subsequent glutathione (GSH) synthesis. This metabolic rewiring ameliorates oxidative stress to support lung cancer cell proliferation and survival. Simultaneous glutamine limitation and SAT1 activation result in ROS accumulation, growth inhibition, and cell death. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of either one of glutamine transport, glutaminase, or GSH biosynthesis in combination with activation of polyamine catabolism synergistically suppresses lung cancer cell growth and xenograft tumor formation. Together, this study unveils a previously unappreciated functional interconnection between polyamine catabolism and glutamine metabolism and establishes cotargeting strategies as potential therapeutics in lung cancer.
Directed evolution of genetically encoded LYTACs for cell-mediated delivery
Authors: Yang Jonathan Lee , Yamada-Hunter Sean A. , Labanieh Louai , Sotillo Elena , Cheah Joleen S. , Roberts David S. , Mackall Crystal L. , Bertozzi Carolyn R. , Ting Alice Y.
Published: March 2024

Lysosome-targeting chimeras (LYTACs) are a promising therapeutic modality to drive the degradation of extracellular proteins. However, early versions of LYTAC contain synthetic glycopeptides that cannot be genetically encoded. Here, we present our designs for a fully genetically encodable LYTAC (GELYTAC), making our tool compatible with integration into therapeutic cells for targeted delivery at diseased sites. To achieve this, we replaced the glycopeptide portion of LYTACs with the protein insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2). After showing initial efficacy with wild-type IGF2, we increased the potency of GELYTAC using directed evolution. Subsequently, we demonstrated that our engineered GELYTAC construct not only secretes from HEK293T cells but also from human primary T-cells to drive the uptake of various targets into receiver cells. Immune cells engineered to secrete GELYTAC thus represent a promising avenue for spatially selective targeted protein degradation.
Antigen-independent, autonomous B cell receptor signaling drives activated B cell DLBCL
Authors: Eken Janneke A. , Koning Marvyn T. , Kupcova Kristyna , Sepúlveda Yáñez Julieta H. , de Groen Ruben A.L. , Quinten Edwin , Janssen Jurriaan , van Bergen Cornelis A.M. , Vermaat Joost S.P. , Cleven Arjen , Navarrete Marcelo A. , Ylstra Bauke , de Jong Daphne , Havranek Ondrej , Jumaa Hassan , Veelken Hendrik
Published: March 2024

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma of activated B cell type (ABC-DLBCL), a major cell-of-origin DLBCL subtype, is characterized by chronic active B cell receptor (BCR) signaling and NF-κB activation, which can be explained by activating mutations of the BCR signaling cascade in a minority of cases. We demonstrate that autonomous BCR signaling, akin to its essential pathogenetic role in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), can explain chronic active BCR signaling in ABC-DLBCL. 13 of 18 tested DLBCL-derived BCR, including 12 cases selected for expression of IgM, induced spontaneous calcium flux and increased phosphorylation of the BCR signaling cascade in murine triple knockout pre-B cells without antigenic stimulation or external BCR crosslinking. Autonomous BCR signaling was associated with IgM isotype, dependent on somatic BCR mutations and individual HCDR3 sequences, and largely restricted to non-GCB DLBCL. Autonomous BCR signaling represents a novel immunological oncogenic driver mechanism in DLBCL originating from individual BCR sequences and adds a new dimension to currently proposed genetics- and transcriptomics-based DLBCL classifications.
Orbital-Ordering Driven Simultaneous Tunability of Magnetism and Electric Polarization in Strained Monolayer VCl3
Authors: Guo 郭 Deping 的坪 , Wang 王 Cong 聪 , Wang 王 Lvjin 侣锦 , Lu 陆 Yunhao 赟豪 , Wu 吴 Hua 骅 , Zhang 张 Yanning 妍宁 , Ji 季 Wei 威
Published: March 2024

Two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals magnetic materials have promising and versatile electronic and magnetic properties in the 2D limit, indicating a considerable potential to advance spintronic applications. Theoretical predictions thus far have not ascertained whether monolayer VCl3 is a ferromagnetic (FM) or anti-FM monolayer; this also remains to be experimentally verified. We theoretically investigate the influence of potential factors, including C
3 symmetry breaking, orbital ordering, epitaxial strain, and charge doping, on the magnetic ground state. Utilizing first-principles calculations, we predict a collinear type-III FM ground state in monolayer VCl3 with a broken C
3 symmetry, wherein only the former two of three t
2g orbitals (a
1g,

e

g
2

π

and

e

g
1

π

) are occupied. The atomic layer thickness and bond angles of monolayer VCl3 undergo abrupt changes driven by an orbital ordering switch, resulting in concomitant structural and magnetic phase transitions. Introducing doping to the underlying Cl atoms of monolayer VCl3 without C
3 symmetry simultaneously induces in- and out-of-plane polarizations. This can achieve a multiferroic phase transition if combined with the discovered adjustments of magnetic ground state and polarization magnitude under strain. The establishment of an orbital-ordering driven regulatory mechanism can facilitate deeper exploration and comprehension of magnetic properties of strongly correlated systems in monolayer VCl3.
Emergent modified gravity
Authors: Bojowald Martin , Duque Erick I
Published: March 2024

A complete canonical formulation of general covariance makes it possible to construct new modified theories of gravity that are not of higher-curvature form, as shown here in a spherically symmetric setting. The usual uniqueness theorems are evaded by using a crucial and novel ingredient, allowing for fundamental fields of gravity distinct from an emergent space-time metric that provides a geometrical structure to all solutions. As specific examples, there are new expansion-shear couplings in cosmological models, a form of modified Newtonian dynamics can appear in a space-time covariant theory without introducing extra fields, and related effects help to make effective models of canonical quantum gravity fully consistent with general covariance.
Derivation of Miller’s rule for the nonlinear optical susceptibility of a quantum anharmonic oscillator
Authors: Meyer Maximilian T , Schindlmayr Arno
Published: March 2024

Miller’s rule is an empirical relation between the nonlinear and linear optical coefficients that applies to a large class of materials but has only been rigorously derived for the classical Lorentz model with a weak anharmonic perturbation. In this work, we extend the proof and present a detailed derivation of Miller’s rule for an equivalent quantum-mechanical anharmonic oscillator. For this purpose, the classical concept of velocity-dependent damping inherent to the Lorentz model is replaced by an adiabatic switch-on of the external electric field, which allows a unified treatment of the classical and quantum-mechanical systems using identical potentials and fields. Although the dynamics of the resulting charge oscillations, and hence the induced polarizations, deviate due to the finite zero-point motion in the quantum-mechanical framework, we find that Miller’s rule is nevertheless identical in both cases up to terms of first order in the anharmonicity. With a view to practical applications, especially in the context of ab initio calculations for the optical response where adiabatically switched-on fields are widely assumed, we demonstrate that a correct treatment of finite broadening parameters is essential to avoid spurious errors that may falsely suggest a violation of Miller’s rule, and we illustrate this point by means of a numerical example.
Anisotropy and paramagnetism of QCD matter with an anomalous magnetic moment
Authors: He Rui , Wen Xin-Jian
Published: March 2024

We employ the Polyakov-loop enhanced Nambu–Jona-Lasinio model incorporating the quark anomalous magnetic moment to investigate the anisotropy structure and the renormalized magnetization of magnetized quark matter at finite temperature. The ultraviolet divergences and nonphysical oscillatory behavior are eliminated by the vacuum magnetic regularization scheme. With a parametrization of the anomalous magnetic moment that is proportional to the square of the chiral condensate, the renormalized magnetization is enlarged by the strong magnetic field so that the anisotropy becomes more apparent. The inflection point of the renormalized magnetization indicates the pseudocritical temperature for the chiral crossover. We find that the results with the anomalous magnetic moment are closer to the lattice quantum chromodynamics data. The connection between the paramagnetism and the chiral transition provides new insight into a magnetohydrodynamics description of hot and dense QCD matter produced in heavy-ion collisions.