bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular and phylogenetic characterization of the monkeypox outbreak in the South of Spain
Authors: Casimiro‐Soriguer Carlos S. , Perez‐Florido Javier , Lara Maria , Camacho‐Martinez Pedro , Merino‐Diaz Laura , Pupo‐Ledo Inmaculada , de Salazar Adolfo , Fuentes Ana , Viñuela Laura , Chueca Natalia , Martinez‐Martinez Luis , Lorusso Nicola , Lepe Jose A. , Dopazo Joaquín , Garcia Federico
Published: March 2024

Background and Aim

Until the May 2022 Monkeypox (MPXV) outbreak, which spread rapidly to many non‐endemic countries, the virus was considered a viral zoonosis limited to some African countries. The Andalusian circuit of genomic surveillance was rapidly applied to characterize the MPXV outbreak in the South of Spain.

Methods

Whole genome sequencing was used to obtain the genomic profiles of samples collected across the south of Spain, representative of all the provinces of Andalusia. Phylogenetic analysis was used to study the relationship of the isolates and the available sequences of the 2022 outbreak.

Results

Whole genome sequencing of a total of 160 MPXV viruses from the different provinces that reported cases were obtained. Interestingly, we report the sequences of MPXV viruses obtained from two patients who died. While one of the isolates bore no noteworthy mutations that explain a potential heightened virulence, in another patient the second consecutive genome sequence, performed after the administration of tecovirimat, uncovered a mutation within the A0A7H0DN30 gene, known to be a prime target for tecovirimat in its Vaccinia counterpart. In general, a low number of mutations were observed in the sequences reported, which were very similar to the reference of the 2022 outbreak (OX044336), as expected from a DNA virus. The samples likely correspond to several introductions of the circulating MPXV viruses from the last outbreak. The virus sequenced from one of the two patients that died presented a mutation in a gene that bears potential connections to drug resistance. This mutation was absent in the initial sequencing before treatment.
Fluid‐structure interaction study of an oscillating heat source effect on the natural convection flow
Authors: Tarek Nehila , Elhadj Benachour , Mohammad Ghalambaz , Mohammed Hasnat , Khadidja Asnoune
Published: March 2024

The objective of this paper is to investigate fluid‐structure interaction (FSI) within conjugate natural convection. An oscillating fin, featuring a heat source placed at different locations, is examined using the Arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian formulation. The Galerkin finite element method is utilized to solve nonlinear dimensionless equations. Verification of grid independence is conducted and the model undergoes validation. Simulation outcomes for three fin positions (left, center, and right) and three heat source locations (bottom, middle, and top) are presented, illustrating streamlines, isotherms, and the average Nusselt number. The governing equations and boundary conditions are addressed using the finite element method. Temperature profiles in four scenarios are analyzed, along with horizontal velocities at different levels (0, D/2, D from the bottom wall). Dimensionless time (10−5 ≤ t ≤ 3), Ra = 106, Kr = 10, E = 1011 are used as parameters. The impact of the heat source position on vibratory motion is evaluated through Nusselt number variation, affecting heat exchange in different cases. The results show that heat transfer is minimal for a source location at the center of the fin (c). These findings also offer insights into FSI applications in economics and industry, guiding practical design considerations. Additionally, coupling the vibratory motion of the heat source with the flexible oscillating fin at the same frequency enhances understanding of the system.
Inter‐ and intraobserver agreement of antenatal cardiotocography assessments by maternity care professionals: A prospective study
Authors: Neppelenbroek Elise M. , van der Heijden Olivier W. H. , de Vet Henrica C. W. , de Groot Amanda J. J. , Daemers Darie O. A. , de Jonge Ank , Verhoeven Corine J. M.
Published: March 2024

Objective

In the Netherlands, antenatal cardiotocography (aCTG) to assess fetal well‐being is performed in obstetrician‐led care. An innovative initiative was started to evaluate whether aCTG for specific indications—reduced fetal movements, external cephalic version, or postdate pregnancy—is feasible in non‐obstetrician‐led care settings by independent primary care midwives. Quality assessment is essential when reorganizing and shifting tasks and responsibilities. Therefore, we aimed to assess the inter‐ and intraobserver agreement for aCTG assessments between and within four professional groups involved in Dutch maternity care regarding the overall classification and assessment of the various components of aCTG.

Method

This was a prospective study among 47 Dutch primary care midwives, hospital‐based midwives, residents, and obstetricians. Ten aCTG traces were assessed twice at a 1 month interval. To ensure a representative sample, we used two different sets of 10 aCTG traces each. We calculated the degree of agreement using the proportions of agreement.

Results

The proportions of agreement for interobserver agreement on the classification of aCTG between and within the four professional groups varied from 0.82 to 0.94. The proportions of agreement for each professional group were slightly higher for intraobserver (0.86–0.94) than for interobserver agreement. For the various aCTG components, the proportions of agreement for interobserver agreement varied from 0.64 (presence of contractions) to 0.98 (baseline heart frequency).

Conclusion

The proportion of agreement levels between and within the maternity care professionals in the classification of aCTG traces among healthy women were comparable. This means that these professional groups are equally well able to classify aCTGs in healthy pregnant women.
Antagonism of metabotropic glutamate receptor type 5 prevents levodopa‐induced dyskinesia development in a male rat model of Parkinson's disease: Electrophysiological evidence
Authors: Kamo Hikaru , Iwamuro Hirokazu , Nakamura Ryota , Nojiri Shuko , Okuzumi Ayami , Ogawa Takashi , Nakajima Asuka , Hattori Nobutaka , Shimo Yasushi
Published: March 2024

Levodopa‐induced dyskinesia (LID) is a common complication in patients with advanced Parkinson's disease (PD) undergoing treatment with levodopa. Glutamate receptor antagonists can suppress LID; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we aimed to evaluate the effect of 3‐((2‐methyl‐1,3‐thiazol‐4‐yl)ethynyl)pyridine (MTEP), a metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) antagonist, on dyskinesia. We recorded the neuronal activity of the entopeduncular nucleus and examined responses to cortical electric stimulation in the control group (n = 6) and three groups of rats (male PD model). Saline was intraperitoneally administered to dopamine lesioned (DL) rats (n = 6), levodopa/benserazide (L/B) was administered to LID rats (n = 8), and L/B combined with MTEP was administered to MTEP rats (n = 6) twice daily for 14 days. We administered L/B to LID and MTEP rats 48 h after the final administration of MTEP to examine the chronic effect of MTEP. The control and DL groups did not have LID. The MTEP group had less LID than the LID group (p < .01) on day 1 and day 18. The control group had a typical triphasic pattern consisting of early excitation (early‐Ex), inhibition, and late excitation (late‐Ex). However, the inhibition phase disappeared, was partially observed, and was fully suppressed in the DL, LID, and MTEP groups, respectively. The cortico‐striato‐entopeduncular pathway is important in the pathophysiology of LID. mGluR5 antagonism suppresses LID progression by preventing physiological changes in the cortico‐striato‐entopeduncular pathway. Future studies are required to validate these results.
Median Nerve Shear Wave Elastography Is Associated With the Neurophysiological Severity of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Martikkala Lauri , Pemmari Antti , Himanen Sari‐Leena , Mäkelä Katri
Published: March 2024

Objectives

This study examines the associations between the median nerve (MN) shear wave elastography (SWE), the MN cross‐sectional area (CSA), patient's symptoms, and the neurophysiological severity of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The most appropriate site to perform SWE was also tested.

Methods

This prospective study comprised 86 wrists of 47 consecutive patients who volunteered for MN ultrasound after an electrodiagnostic study. The neurophysiological severity of CTS was assessed according to the results of a nerve conduction study (NCS). The MN CSA was measured at the carpal tunnel inlet (wCSA) and the forearm (fCSA). SWE was performed on the MN in a longitudinal orientation at the wrist crease (wSWE), at the forearm (fSWE), and within the carpal tunnel (tSWE).

Results

The wCSA and wSWE correlated positively with the neurophysiological severity of CTS (r = .619, P < .001; r = .582, P < .001, respectively). The optimal cut‐off values to discriminate the groups with normal NCS and with findings indicating CTS were 10.5 mm2 for the wCSA and 4.12 m/s for the wSWE. With these cut‐off values, wCSA had a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 87% and wSWE a sensitivity of 88% and specificity of 76%. Neither tSWE nor fSWE correlated with the neurophysiological severity of CTS or differed between NCS negative and positive groups (P = .429, P = .736, respectively).

Conclusion

Shear wave velocity in the MN at the carpal tunnel inlet increases in CTS and correlates to the neurophysiological CTS severity equivalently to CSA measured at the same site.
Comparison of Hashin and Puck criterions for failure behavior of pin loaded composite plates
Authors: Dogan C. , Kaman M. O. , Erdem S. , Albayrak M.
Published: March 2024

In this study, the failure behavior of carbon fiber‐reinforced pin‐jointed composite plates were analyzed for different criteria. For this purpose, composite plates with a single and double pin joints were prepared from four layers carbon fiber composites. The effect of pin number, pin position on plate damage load and type was investigated experimentally and numerically under the tensile test. Numerically, progressive damage analysis was performed using Hashin and Puck failure criteria, and the approach rates to the experimental results were determined. It was observed that the experimental results obtained for single pin joint composites and the numerical data obtained using the Puck damage criterion were at least 87 % compatible, and this rate was determined as 85 % for the Hashin failure criterion. For the double pin jointed composites, it was seen that the experimental results and the results of the Puck damage criterion were compatible with at least 90 %, and this rate was obtained as 84 % for the Hashin failure criterion. The dominant damage type seen in the specimen is matrix shear and fiber compression according to the Hashin damage criterion, inter fiber failure in transverse tension for Puck.
Influence of laser beam welding in vacuum on the magnetic properties of non‐grain oriented electrical steel sheets
Authors: Krichel T. , Olschok S. , Reisgen U.
Published: March 2024

Major components of electrical motors are toroidal cores made of stacked electrical steel sheets. All common joining methods cause a degradation of the magnetic properties of the toroidal cores. In this paper, pulsed laser beam welding in vacuum is used to join the individual electrical steel sheets. It is shown that the magnetic behaviour of the toroidal cores can be influenced by variation of process parameters like beam power and working pressure.
Evaluation of innovative microreactor for examination of alkoxide pitting corrosion and data generation for numerical transient model
Authors: Arya V. , Gazenbiller E. , Reitz R. , Oechsner M. , Höche D.
Published: March 2024

In fuel‐bearing components, particularly in automotive applications operating at elevated temperatures, the durability of light metals is significantly influenced by their susceptibility to alkoxide corrosion. Alkoxide corrosion is characterized by its spontaneous nature and exceptionally rapid degradation of materials once initiated. This study presents an innovative high‐pressure and high‐temperature micro‐reactor, which enables precise measurements with superior sensitivity for determining the exact initiation times and reaction rates of pitting corrosion. Exemplified tests of surface roughness and water content effect on pitting initiation times were conducted and data was generated for a numerical phase field model to demonstrate the reactor capabilities. Experimental findings suggest that impurities present on both the material surface and in the fuel exhibit a significant influence on corrosivity, thereby affecting the reliability of the components. Moreover, the experimental data points have been utilized to extract the corrosion kinetics and calibrate the numerical model. The initial findings successfully demonstrate the ability to replicate corrosion kinetics and accurately represent pit morphologies and estimate reaction‐related parameters in a predictive manner.
Aging properties of a vegetable‐based polyurethane foam under high relative humidity and different temperatures
Authors: Da Silva Enio Henrique Pires , De Barros Silvio , Casari Pascal , Ribeiro Marcelo Leite
Published: March 2024

The objective of this study is to assess, characterize, and forecast the aging effects on the mechanical properties of a vegetable‐based polyurethane foam (PUF) derived from castor oil under elevated relative humidity conditions and at two distinct load orientations (aligned with the expansion direction and perpendicular to it). Ten specimens were subjected to temperatures of 60, 75, and 90°C, along with a relative humidity of 90%, for a duration of up to 60 days. Compression tests, following ASTM D1621‐16 standards and supplemented by 3D digital image correlation, revealed nearly isotropic behavior with marginally lower compression strength in the expansion direction. On the other hand, the strength of the foams at 90°C was higher in that direction. This led to a smaller activation energy (Ea) in this property, which ended up showing a shorter lifespan prediction considering the strength retention in this direction. The stiffness values were proportionally more similar in both directions than the strength ones and this was observed in the Ea for those curves. In contrast to several other foams and polyurethanes, the one examined in this study exhibited consistently higher Ea values for its mechanical properties, particularly in the transverse direction to expansion, surpassing 94 kJ/mol. This indicates a robust diffusion and chemical stability, suggesting its potential for prolonged utilization compared to conventional oil‐based foams. A prediction was made that this foam would lose 50% of its stiffness and strength in around 9.8 and 9.5 years at 20°C, respectively, considering the directions more sensitive to the aging process. This research offers valuable insights for predicting lifespan based on operating temperatures and property retention needs, contributing to the advancement of sustainable materials in structural applications.

Highlights

Fifty specimens investigated for each of two directions.

Evaluation of vegetable‐based PUF aging process unveils density changes.

Unique behavior noted: different Ea values for each direction.

High Ea values indicate enhanced mechanical stability over oil‐based foams.

Lifespan prediction enhances material application prospects.
Wearable mobile health device for monitoring postoperative ambulation among patients with colorectal cancer undergoing minimally invasive surgery: A prospective comparison study
Authors: Liao Yu‐Tso , Chou Yun‐Jen , Wu Chia‐Tung , Liu Yu‐Hsin , Liang Jin‐Tung , Lai Feipei , Shun Shiow‐Ching
Published: March 2024

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using mHealth devices for monitoring postoperative ambulation among patients with colorectal cancer undergoing minimally invasive surgery (MIS).

Methods

Patients with colorectal cancer undergoing MIS were prospectively recruited to wear mHealth devices for recording postoperative ambulation between October 2018 and January 2021. The primary outcome was the compliance by evaluating the weekly submission rate of step counts. The secondary outcome was the association of weekly step counts and postoperative length of stay.

Results

Of 107 eligible patients, 53 patients wore mHealth devices, whereas 54 patients did not. The average weekly submission rate was 72.6% for the first month after surgery. The total step counts <4000 or >10 000 in the postoperative week one were negatively associated with postoperative length of stay (β = −2.874, p = 0.038).

Conclusions

mHealth devices provide an objective assessment of postoperative ambulation among patients with colorectal cancer undergoing MIS.

Clinical trial registration

NCT03277235.
Willingness to adapt plays key role in supporting success of changing student population
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: March 2024

Much has changed in higher education, especially since the pandemic, but some things about the student affairs profession remain the same, according to Karl Brooks, Ed.D., Vice President for Student Affairs at Oakton College, a two‐year community college in Illinois. “At the core, our work centers around supporting students and their development, providing timely services, and helping them develop their learning experiences,” said Brooks, who has worked in student affairs for 33 years. “We continue to celebrate an inclusive environment where all can feel connected and pursue their aspirations and goals, as we help them to meet those aspirations and goals,” he added.
Phenanthroline Derived N‐Doped Carbon Dots as Robust Metal‐Free Photocatalysts for PET‐RAFT Polymerization and Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly
Authors: Xiao Yang , Xia Zhinan , Hu Wanchao , Liu Bei , Lü Changli
Published: March 2024

Metal‐free organic photocatalysts for photo‐mediated reversible deactivation radical polymerization (photo‐RDRP) are witnessed to make increasing advancement in the precise synthesis of polymers. However, challenges still exist in the development of high‐efficiency and environmentally sustainable carbon dots (CDs)‐based organocatalysts. Herein, N‐doped CDs derived from phenanthroline derivative (Aphen) are prepared as metal‐free photocatalysts for photoinduced electron transfer reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (PET‐RAFT) polymerization. The introduction of phenanthroline structure enhances the excited state lifetime of CDs and expands the conjugated length of their internal structure to enable the light‐absorption to reach green light region, thereby enhancing photocatalytic activity. The as‐designed CDs exhibit unprecedented photocatalytic capacity in photopolymerization even in large‐volume reaction (100 mL) with high monomer conversion and narrow polymer dispersity (Mw/Mn < 1.20) under green light. The photocatalytic system is compatible with PET‐RAFT polymerization of numerous monomers and the production of high molecular weight polyacrylate (Mn >250 000) with exquisite spatiotemporal control. Above results confirm the potential of CDs as photocatalyst, which has not been achieved with other CDs catalysts used in photo‐RDRP. In addition, the construction of fluorescent polymer nanoparticles using CDs as both photocatalyst and phosphor through photoinitiated polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (Photo‐PISA) technology is successfully demonstrated for the first time.
Laser‐driven liquid assembly: Metal‐nanocluster‐decorated Ni(OH)2/nickel foam for efficient water electrolysis
Authors: Jeong Yujeong , Begildayeva Talshyn , Theerthagiri Jayaraman , Min Ahreum , Moon Cheol Joo , Kim Jangyun , Naik Shreyanka Shankar , Choi Myong Yong
Published: March 2024

Herein, an in situ approach of pulsed laser irradiation in liquids (PLIL) was exploited to create surface‐modified electrodes for eco‐friendly H2 fuel production via electrolysis. The surface of the nickel foam (NF) substrate was nondestructively modified in 1.0 mol/L KOH using PLIL, resulting in a highly reactive Ni(OH)2/NF. Moreover, single‐metal Ir, Ru, and Pd nanoclusters were introduced onto Ni(OH)2/NF via appropriate metal precursors. This simultaneous surface oxidation of the NF to Ni(OH)2 and decoration with reduced metallic nanoparticles during PLIL are advantageous for promoting hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and overall water splitting (OWS). The Ir‐Ni(OH)2/NF electrode demonstrates superior performance, achieving the lowest overpotentials at 10 mA/cm2 (η) with 74 mV (HER) and 268 mV (OER). The OWS using Ir‐Ni(OH)2/NF||Ir‐Ni(OH)2/NF cell demonstrated a low voltage of 1.592 V, reaching 10 mA/cm2 with notable stability of 72 h. Ir‐Ni(OH)2/NF performance is assigned to the improved defects and boosted intrinsic properties resulting from the synergy between metallic‐nanoparticles and the oxidized NF surface, which are positively influenced by PLIL.
Reconstructing the 3D Coordinates of Guest:Host OLED Blends with Single Atom Resolution
Authors: Packman Lachlan , Philippa Bronson , Pivrikas Almantas , Burn Paul L. , Gentle Ian R.
Published: March 2024

The performance of electronic and semiconductor devices is critically dependent on the distribution of guest molecules or atoms in a host matrix. One prominent example is that of organic light‐emitting diode (OLED) displays containing phosphorescent emitters, now ubiquitous in handheld devices and high‐end televisions. In such OLEDs the phosphorescent guest [normally an iridium(III)‐based complex] is typically blended into a host matrix, and charge injection and transport, exciton formation and decay, and hence overall device performance are governed by the distribution of the emissive guest in the host. Here high‐angle annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF‐STEM) is used with depth sectioning to reconstruct the 3D distribution of emissive iridium(III) complexes, fac‐tris(2‐phenylpyridine)iridium(III) [Ir(ppy)3], blended into the amorphous host material, tris(4‐carbazoyl‐9‐ylphenyl)amine (TCTA), by resolving the position of each single iridium(III) ion. It is found that most Ir(ppy)3 complexes are clustered with at least one other, even at low concentrations, and that for films of 20 wt.% Ir(ppy)3 essentially all the complexes are interconnected. The results validate the morphology of blend films created using molecular dynamics simulations which mimic the evaporation film‐forming process and are also consistent with the experimentally measured charge transport and photophysical properties.
Assembled RhRuFe Trimetallene for Water Electrolysis
Authors: Zhang Wenshu , Wang Kai , Lin Fangxu , Zhang Qinghua , Sun Yingjun , Luo Heng , Zhang Weiyu , Zhou Jinhui , Lv Fan , Wang Dawei , Gu Lin , Luo Mingchuan , Guo Shaojun
Published: March 2024

Industrializing water electrolyzers demands better electrocatalysts, especially for the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The prevailing OER catalysts are Ir or Ru‐based nanomaterials, however, they still suffer from insufficient stability. An alternative yet considerably less explored approach is to upgrade Rh, a known stable but moderately active element for OER electrocatalysis, via rational structural engineering. Herein, a precise synthesis of assembled RhRuFe trimetallenes (RhRuFe TMs) with an average thickness of 1 nm for boosting overall water splitting catalysis is reported. Favorable mass transport and optimized electronic structure collectively render RhRuFe TMs with an improved OER activity of an overpotential of 330 mV to deliver 10 mA cm−2, which is significantly lower than the Rh/C control (by 601 mV) and reported Rh‐based OER electrocatalysts. In particular, the RhRuFe TMs‐based water splitting devices can achieve the current density of 10 mA cm−2 at a low voltage of 1.63 V, which is among the best in the Rh‐based bifunctional catalysts for electrolyzers. The addition of Fe in RhRuFe TMs can modulate the strain/electron distribution of the multi‐alloy, which regulates the binding energies of H* and OH* in hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions for achieving the enhanced bifunctional OER and HER catalysis is further demonstrated.
Blood‐based assessment of oxidative stress, inflammation, endocrine and metabolic adaptations in eventing horses accounting for plasma volume shift after exercise
Authors: Giers Johanna , Bartel Alexander , Kirsch Katharina , Müller Simon Franz , Horstmann Stephanie , Gehlen Heidrun
Published: March 2024

Background

After submaximal exercise, blood values of eventing horses show physiological reactions.

Objectives

This prospective longitudinal study investigated blood parameters in 20 elite eventing horses before and after two–four‐star cross‐country rides.

Methods

Using a mixed model adjusting for plasma volume shift, we assessed exercise‐dependent parameters and compared blood values with reference ranges for healthy horses at rest.

Results

Following exercise, cortisol, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) showed short‐term increases, and superoxide‐dismutase showed a small short‐term increase. Hepatic values showed short‐term (haemoglobin [HGB], globulins) or sustained increases (bilirubin, glutamate dehydrogenase, alanine aminotransferase). Digestion‐related parameters showed small short‐term increases (α‐amylase, triglycerides) or decreases (cholesterol, DGGR‐lipase), apparent through plasma shift adjustment. Zinc decreased in the short term, and iron showed a delayed decrease. White blood cell count increased persistently after training, whereas serum amyloid A remained unchanged.

Conclusions

Exercised eventing horses had consistently elevated HGB and cortisol levels 10 and 30 min after submaximal exercise, exceeding the reference ranges for healthy horses at rest. Exercise activates the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenocortical and hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axes. Antioxidant activity was observed. Increased energy requirements led to the mobilization of energy reserves, and a sustained increase in liver enzymes indicated hepatocellular injury. Mild haemolysis suggested increased muscle metabolism, whereas signs of inflammation were subtle. Further research is needed to identify which horses deviate from mean values.
Principles for a Case Study Approach to Social Tipping Points
Authors: Hodbod Jennifer , Milkoreit Manjana , Baggio Jacopo , Mathias Jean-Denis , Schoon Michael
Published: March 2024

Recent interdisciplinary study has led to significant conceptual advances and a broad empirical evidence base for ecological and climate tipping points. However, the literature has yet to present convincing empirical case studies of social tipping, as the data-driven identification of social tipping points remains a challenge. Arguing that the barriers to such empirical research are largely methodological in nature, we develop methodological guidance to identify social tipping processes in social-ecological system case studies, based on four key elements—multiple stable states, self-reinforcing feedback dynamics, abruptness, and limited reversibility. We apply our approach to food system changes linked to the Flint Water Crisis between 2010 and 2020. We identify seven principles that can simultaneously serve as a seven-step process for social tipping point analysis in any social-ecological system. We highlight two major challenges: the limited availability of high quality, longitudinal social data, and the possibility that value-driven social processes tend to curb abruptness and non-linear change. Utilizing the seven principles to study historical, ongoing, or anticipated cases of social tipping processes could facilitate a deeper understanding of the conditions and limitations of non-linear social change and, therefore, inform efforts to facilitate change towards more sustainable futures.
Post-war Development Energy Scenarios for Ukraine
Authors: Lukash Olha , Namoniuk Vasyl
Published: March 2024

The systemic shock provoked by the Russian invasion created a radical discontinuity in the national development policies of Ukraine. This research examines the state of energy policy and the consequences of the ongoing war on plausible decarbonisation scenarios. Ukraine’s commitment to decarbonization was firmly established before 2022, and the National Energy Strategy 2050 already aimed at a substantial 65% reduction in emissions of the economy in comparison to 1990. The war however, precipitated the need to adjust these targets and policy instrument to the current realities. For that, we conducted quantitative research to identify the most GHG intensive regions and sectors and related these to their Gross Regional Product and population. We found out that Zaporizhzhia, Dnipropetrovsk and Ivano-Frankivsk turn out be the most critical regions that require special consideration—so for the later region, we also identify particular decarbonization pathways. Our research shows that the Ukrainian war not only unveiled the inherent vulnerabilities of heavily centralised, carbon-dependent systems, but also can lead to the acceleration of non-linear structural low-carbon energy transformations more resilient to global change and systemic interdependences.
Exploring Transition in Coal- and Carbon-Intensive Regions Through an Interdisciplinary Lens
Authors: Mangalagiu Diana , Lieu Jenny , Biddau Fulvio , Lilliestam Johan , Veland Siri , Sarrica Mauro , Martinez-Reyes Amanda , Mey Franziska , Mandel Antoine
Published: March 2024

This chapter introduces an interdisciplinary perspective to investigate the transition process and to identify empirical evidence of social-ecological tipping points (SETPs) in the case studies on coal and carbon intensive regions (CCIRs) analyzed in the project TIPPING+. The interdisciplinary lens considers different modes of thought, frameworks, and multiple perspectives and interests from diverse stakeholders, a systems’ understanding, and different culture considerations across the CCIRs. Within this interdisciplinary process, we applied various lenses to study the potential for SETPs by combining insights from human geography, social psychology, regional socio-technical systems, and political economy perspectives on the phases of low carbon transitions and on the justice component of the transitions. Subsequently, this chapter gives an overview of how the eight CCIRs case studies in this book have applied various interdisciplinary lenses to investigate the regional transition and the emergence of SETPs.
Realizing Alternative Energy Futures: From the Promise of a Petroleum Future to Imagining Lofoten as the Green Islands
Authors: Sveinsdóttir Anna G. , Dale Brigt
Published: March 2024

This chapter examines the 20-year-long oil dispute in Lofoten and the decision to deviate from oil and gas development in the region. Our objectives are three-fold: (1) to better understand how carbon-intensive development pathways can rapidly shift towards decarbonization, (2) to yield insights into how alternative narratives about the future materialize in historically pro-carbon contexts such as Norway, and (3) examining to which extent we can identify and assess potential social tipping events that impacted the decision to deviate from oil and gas development in Lofoten. Drawing on a qualitative framework, we address our objectives by identifying and assessing important events between 2000–2020 that impacted the decision to halt plans for oil and gas development and by examining how alternative visions of an oil free Lofoten emerged and took shape over the last two decades. We argue that the fact that the Lofoten regions remains closed to petroleum development is unusual given the significance of petroleum production to the Norwegian economy and the dominant logic of the Norwegian resource regime. Examining the Lofoten case thus yields insights into conditions and interventions that can both unsettle fossil fuel energy systems and foster lasting transformation towards less-carbon intensive emissions trajectories.
String thermodynamics in and out of equilibrium: Boltzmann equations and random walks
Authors: Frey Andrew R. , Mahanta Ratul , Maharana Anshuman , Muia Francesco , Quevedo Fernando , Villa Gonzalo
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We revisit the study of string theory close to the Hagedorn temperature with the aim towards cosmological applications. We consider interactions of open and closed strings in a gas of Dp-branes, and/or one isolated Dp-brane, in an arbitrary number d of flat non-compact dimensions and general compact dimensions. Leading order string perturbation theory is used to obtain the basic interaction rates in a flat background, which are shown to be consistent with the random walk picture of highly excited strings that should apply in more general backgrounds. Using the random walk interpretation we infer the structure of more general semi-inclusive string scattering rates and then write down the corresponding Boltzmann equations describing ensembles of highly excited closed and open strings. We organise the interaction terms in Boltzmann equations so that detailed balance becomes manifest. We obtain the equilibrium solutions and show that they reduce to previously computed solutions for d = 0. We further study the behaviour of non-equilibrium fluctuations and find explicit analytic expressions for the equilibration rates (and for the number of open strings in d = 0). Potential implications for an early universe with strings at high temperatures are outlined.
Probing light quark Yukawa couplings through angularity distributions in Higgs boson decay
Authors: Yan Bin , Lee Christopher
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We propose to utilize angularity distributions in Higgs boson decay to probe light quark Yukawa couplings at e+e− colliders. Angularities τa are a class of 2-jet event shapes with variable and tunable sensitivity to the distribution of radiation in hadronic jets in the final state. Using soft-collinear effective theory (SCET), we present a prediction of angularity distributions from Higgs decaying to quark and gluon states at e+e− colliders to NNLL + 𝒪(αs) accuracy. Due to the different color structures in quark and gluon jets, the angularity distributions from H → $$q\overline{q }$$ and H → gg show different behaviors and can be used to constrain the light quark Yukawa couplings. We show that the upper limit of light quark Yukawa couplings could be probed to the level of ~ 15% of the bottom quark Yukawa coupling in the Standard Model in a conservative analysis window far away from nonperturbative effects and other uncertainties; the limit can be pushed to ≲ 7 – 9% with better control of the nonperturbative effects especially on gluon angularity distributions and/or with multiple angularities.
$${M}_{{W}_{R}}$$ dependence of leptogenesis in minimal Left-Right Symmetric Model with different strengths of Type-II seesaw mass
Authors: Kakoti Ankita , Das Mrinal Kumar
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Left Right Symmetric Model (LRSM) being an extension of the Standard model of particle physics incorporates within itself Type-I and Type-II seesaw mass terms naturally. Both the mass terms can have significant amount of contribution to the resulting light neutrino mass within the model and hence on the different phenomenology associated within. In this paper, we have thoroughly analyzed and discussed the implications of specifying different weightages to both the mass terms and also the study has been carried out for different values of $${M}_{{W}_{R}}$$ which is mass of the right-handed gauge boson. This paper also gives a deeper insight into the new physics contributions of Neutrinoless Double Beta Decay (0νββ) and their variations with the net baryon asymmetry arising out of the model. Therefore, the main objective of the present paper rests on investigating the implications of imposing different weightage to the type-I and type-II seesaw terms and different values of $${M}_{{W}_{R}}$$ on the new physics contributions of 0νββ and net baryon asymmetry arising out as a result of resonant leptogenesis. LRSM in this work has been realized using modular group of level 3, Γ(3) which is isomorphic to non-abelian discrete symmetry group A4, the advantage being the non-requirement of flavons within the model and hence maintaining the minimality of the model.
On the renormalization of Poincaré gauge theories
Authors: Melichev Oleg , Percacci Roberto
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Poincaré Gauge Theories are a class of Metric-Affine Gravity theories with a metric-compatible (i.e. Lorentz) connection and with an action quadratic in curvature and torsion. We perform an explicit one-loop calculation starting with a single term of each type and show that not only are all other terms generated, but also many others. In our particular model all terms containing torsion are redundant and can be eliminated by field redefinitions, but there remains a new term quadratic in curvature, making the model non-renormalizable. We discuss the likely behavior of more general theories of this type.
Schlafverhalten von Personen nach Implantation einer inversen Schulterprothese im Vergleich zu einer gesunden Kontrollgruppe
Authors: Manser Melanie , Zdravkovic Vilijam , Traber Eliane , Erlacher Daniel , Jost Bernhard
Published: March 2024

Hintergrund

Personen mit Schulterpathologien berichten häufig über Schlafprobleme. Die Verbesserung der Schlafqualität ist ein Behandlungsziel der Schulterendoprothetik. Bisher ist unklar, ob veränderte Anatomie und Biomechanik bei inversen Schultertotalprothesen die Schlafqualität längerfristig beeinflussen. Zu einer zuverlässigen Einschätzung führt nebst subjektiver Bewertung die Erhebung von objektiven Schlafparametern. Mithilfe der Aktigraphie werden Körperbewegungen registriert und in aktive und inaktive Phasen eingeteilt. Dank der validen Übereinstimmung mit Wach- und Schlafphasen gelingt die Berechnung der objektiven Schlafparameter.

Ziel der Arbeit

Ziele der Studie waren zu untersuchen, ob sich objektive Schlafparameter bei Personen mit inverser Schultertotalprothese („reverse total shoulder arthroplasty“ [RTSA]) ab einem Jahr postoperativ im Vergleich zu einer gesunden Kontrollgruppe unterscheiden und was die Gründe dafür sind.

Material und Methoden

Die vorliegende Arbeit ist eine explorative Querschnittsstudie mit einem Messzeitpunkt. 29 Studienteilnehmende (15 RTSA-Gruppe, 14 Kontrollgruppe) erhoben während 7 Nächten mithilfe der Aktigraphie objektive Schlafparameter und Daten zur Körperlage. Der Mann-Whitney-U-Test wurde für den Mittelwertvergleich der Schlafparameter verwendet. Gründe für die Wachphasen wurden explorativ untersucht.

Ergebnisse und Diskussion

Die Gruppen zeigten bei allen objektiven Schlafparametern keine signifikanten Unterschiede mit einer nahezu identischen Schlafeffizienz (p = 0,978). Die RTSA-Gruppe lag zu 11 % auf der operierten Seite und zu 65 % auf dem Rücken. Dies ist im Vergleich zur Kontrollgruppe mit 45 % Rückenlage knapp über dem Signifikanzniveau (p = 0,056). Das vermehrte Einnehmen der Rückenlage könnte atembezogene Schlafstörungen fördern und bedarf weiterer Forschung.

Graphic abstract
Balloon dilatation for congenital esophageal stenosis associated with esophageal atresia
Authors: Deguchi Koichi , Kamiyama Masafumi , Masahata Kazunori , Nomura Motonari , Watanabe Miho , Ueno Takehisa , Tazuke Yuko , Okuyama Hiroomi
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Congenital esophageal stenosis (CES) associated with esophageal atresia (EA) is rare, and no standard treatment has been established. We reviewed cases of EA-associated CES to assess the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes, especially the feasibility of endoscopic dilatation.

Methods

We retrospectively examined patients with EA-associated CES. We also compared treatment outcomes of EA-associated CES with those of EA patients without CES who developed postoperative anastomotic stricture.

Results

Among 44 patients with EA, ten had CES (23%). Postoperative complications were not significantly different between EA patients with CES and those without CES but with anastomotic stricture. All CES patients underwent balloon dilatation as initial treatment. Eight of nine patients (89%) were successfully treated by dilatation only, and one patient underwent surgical resection. The median number of balloon dilatations for CES was five (2–17), which was higher than that for anastomotic stricture in patients without CES (p = 0.012). Esophageal perforation occurred in five patients with CES (5/9, 56%) after dilatation, but all perforations were successfully managed conservatively with an uneventful post-dilatation course.

Conclusions

Twenty-three percent of patients with EA had CES. Although balloon dilatation for EA-associated CES required multiple treatments and carried a risk of perforation, balloon dilatation showed an 89% success rate and all perforations could be managed conservatively.
The effect of high-frequency rTMS over left DLPFC and fluid abilities on goal neglect
Authors: Arabacı Gizem , Cakir Batuhan S. , Parris Benjamin A.
Published: March 2024

Goal neglect refers to when an aspect of task instructions is not utilised due to increased competition between goal representations, an attentional limit theoretically linked to working memory. In an attempt to alleviate goal neglect and to investigate the association between dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC)-supported working memory and goal neglect, we used high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation to the left DLPFC whilst participants completed the letter-monitoring task, a measure of goal neglect, and an N3-back task, a working memory task known to be affected by rTMS of the left DLPFC, following 20 min of active and sham stimulation (run on separate days). We found increased accuracy on the N3-back task in addition to decreased goal neglect in the active compared to sham condition when controlling for age and fluid abilities (as assessed by matrix reasoning performance). Furthermore, analysis showed that active stimulation improvements on both the N3-back and letter-monitoring tasks were greater for those with higher fluid abilities. These findings provide support for the link between the DLPFC-support working memory and goal neglect. Increased performance on the N3-back task also supports the literature reporting a link between left DLPFC and verbal working memory. Results are evaluated in the context of potential use to alleviate symptoms of disorders related to goal neglect.
Longitudinal changes in medial meniscus extrusion and clinical outcomes following pullout repair for medial meniscus posterior root tears: a 3-year evaluation
Authors: Kawada Koki , Furumatsu Takayuki , Yokoyama Yusuke , Higashihara Naohiro , Tamura Masanori , Ozaki Toshifumi
Published: March 2024

Purpose

We aimed to evaluate the longitudinal changes in medial meniscus extrusion (MME) and clinical scores at multiple time points up to 3 years after pullout repair for medial meniscus posterior root tears (MMPRTs).

Methods

This retrospective case series study included 64 patients who underwent pullout repair for MMPRTs and four MRI evaluations (preoperatively and at 3 months, 1 year, and 3 years postoperatively). MME was measured during the same time points. Clinical scores were assessed four times: preoperatively and at 1, 2, and 3 years postoperatively. Additionally, a multivariate analysis was performed on the change in MME (ΔMME) from the preoperative measurement point to 3 years postoperatively.

Results

The ΔMME per month from the preoperative measurement point to 3 months postoperatively, from 3 months to 1 year postoperatively, and from 1 to 3 years postoperatively were 0.30, 0.05, and 0.01 mm/month, respectively. All clinical scores significantly improved 3 years postoperatively (p < 0.001). In a multiple regression analysis for ΔMME from the preoperative measurement point to 3 years postoperatively, sex significantly affected the outcome (p = 0.039).

Conclusion

Following pullout repair for MMPRTs with well-aligned lower extremities, although MME progression could not be entirely prevented, the rate of progression decreased over time, and clinical scores improved. In particular, MME progressed markedly during the first 3 months postoperatively. Additionally, sex had a significant influence on MME progression, suggesting that males may be able to expand the indications of pullout repair for MMPRTs.
Effects of vection type and postural instability on cybersickness
Authors: Teixeira Joel , Miellet Sebastien , Palmisano Stephen
Published: March 2024

This study directly compared the novel unexpected vection hypothesis and postural instability-based explanations of cybersickness in virtual reality (VR) using head-mounted displays (HMD) for the first time within a commercial VR game. A total of 40 participants (19 males and 21 females) played an HMD-VR game (Aircar) for up to 14 min, or until their first experience of cybersickness. Based on their self-reports, 24 of these participants were classified as being ‘sick’ during the experiment, with the remainder being classified as ‘well’. Consistent with the unexpected vection hypothesis, we found that: (1) ‘sick’ participants were significantly more likely to report unexpected vection (i.e., an experience of self-motion that was different to what they had been expecting), and (2) sickness severity increased (exponentially) with the strength of any unexpected (but not expected) vection. Our results also supported the predictions of postural instability theory, finding that the onset of cybersickness was typically preceded by an increase in participants’ postural instability. However, when both sway and vection measures were combined, only unexpected vection was found to significantly predict the occurrence of sickness. These findings highlight the importance of unusual vection experiences and postural instability in understanding cybersickness. However, they suggest that developers should be able to make use of expected experiences of vection to safely enhance HMD-VR.
Whole genome sequencing and molecular epidemiology of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from patients with bacteraemia in Slovenia
Authors: Dermota Urška , Šturm Andraž Celar , Triglav Tina , Smrdel Katja Strašek , Velimirović Ivana
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Data on the molecular epidemiology of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates from patients with bacteraemia in Slovenia are lacking. The aim of this study was to phenotypically and genotypically investigate 82 MRSA strains isolated from patients with bloodstream infections in central Slovenia between 2019 and 2022.

Methods

Whole-genome sequencing of selected strains was performed to characterize the strains based on sequence typing, antimicrobial resistance, toxin, and virulence factors genes.

Results

Most MRSA carried SCCmec II (63.4%), followed by SCCmec IV (34.1%) and SCCmec V (2.5%). A high proportion of strains belonging to the ST225 lineage (45.1%) was observed, followed by ST97 (18.3%), ST2883 (15.9%), ST22 (9.8%), ST5 (3.7%), and the ST1, ST398 and ST45 lineages (2.4% each). Sixteen different spa types were identified, predominantly ST225-t003 (31.7%), ST97-t359 (15.9%), and ST2883-t4336 (14.6%). None of the strains carried Panton-Valentine leukocidin, exfoliative toxins, or toxic shock toxin. All MRSA strains were susceptible to linezolid, rifampicin, vancomycin, teicoplanin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. MRSA strains were resistant to erythromycin, clindamycin, tetracycline and gentamicin, with a frequency of 74.4%, 74.4%, 8.5%, and 1.2%, respectively.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that bacteraemia in central Slovenia is caused by diverse MRSA lineages. Identification of newly emerged lineages should be followed in the future to detect changes in the molecular epidemiology of MRSA in our country.