bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CO2 capture and storage
Authors: Delprat-Jannaud Florence
Published: September 2024

Carbon dioxide capture and geological storage are not new technologies: CO2 capture and separation has been used in industry for decades, and CO2 injection has been used since the 1970s for enhanced oil recovery. However, a number of obstacles still need to be overcome before they can be deployed on a large scale.

This article reviews existing technologies, both mature and under development, and discusses the issues to be addressed: reducing the cost and energy penalty for CO2 capture, pooling infrastructures for transport, demonstrating the feasibility of mass storage, and the outlook for use.
Implantologische Möglichkeiten – von der Agenesie des Einzelzahnes
bis zur Oligodontie
Authors: Fürhauser Nikolaus , Millesi Werner , Fürhauser Rudolf
Published: September 2024

Die Behandlung von Patienten mit Nichtanlagen von Zähnen erfordert in vielen
Fällen eine interdisziplinäre Zusammenarbeit. Wenn Implantate Teil des
Behandlungskonzeptes sind, dann sollte der Kieferorthopäde über die
erforderlichen Platzverhältnisse Bescheid wissen. Dies gilt insbesondere für die
erforderliche Lückenbreite und die Achsenstellung der benachbarten Zähne. Das
kontinuierliche Kieferwachstum in der Oberkieferfront muss zwar bedacht werden,
stellt aber in praxi bei Implantation nach Abschluss des Hauptwachstumsschubes
keine Kontraindikation dar, sondern kann in den allermeisten Fällen durch einen
Kronentausch ausgeglichen werden.

Bei Patienten mit Oligodontie wird die gemeinsame Fallplanung deutlich komplexer
um die Raumaufteilung der vorhandenen Bezahnung interdisziplinär festzulegen.
Die definitive Versorgung sollte dann mit optimalen Zahn- und
Implantatpositionen ein gutes ästhetisches und funktionelles Ergebnis für die
leidgeprüften Patienten ermöglichen. Eine Implantation im frühen jugendlichen
Alter sollte in Erwägung gezogen werden, da diese Patienten in ihrer
psychosozialen Entwicklung unterstützt werden.
White-Spot-Läsionen, Zahnwurzelresorptionen und Medikamente im Rahmen
einer kieferorthopädischen Therapie
Authors: Wiedemeyer Friederike , Kirschneck Christian
Published: September 2024

White-Spot-Läsionen (WSL) und Zahnwurzelresorptionen zählen zu den häufigsten
Nebenwirkungen im Rahmen einer kieferorthopädischen Therapie und gefährden oft
ein ansonsten gutes Therapieergebnis. Sind sie erst einmal aufgetreten, sind die
Wahrscheinlichkeit einer Spontanremission gering und die therapeutischen
Möglichkeiten begrenzt. Aus diesem Grund muss der Prävention von WSL und
Zahnwurzelresorptionen im Rahmen einer kieferorthopädischen Behandlung ein
großer Stellenwert eingeräumt werden. Immer mehr Patientinnen und Patienten mit
Bedarf bzw. Wunsch nach einer kieferorthopädischen Therapie, v. a. in der
Erwachsenenbehandlung, stehen unter dem Einfluss von Medikamenten und
entsprechenden, oft chronischen systemischen Erkrankungen, zu deren Therapie
diese regelmäßig eingenommen werden. Deren mögliche Auswirkungen auf die
kieferorthopädische Zahnbewegung und Begleiterscheinungen wie
Zahnwurzelresorptionen werden jedoch meist anamnestisch im klinischen
Praxisalltag nur wenig berücksichtigt, obwohl sie einen wesentlichen Einfluss
auf den Therapieverlauf nehmen können. Im vorliegenden Artikel werden neben
einer epidemiologischen Einordnung die ätiologischen und pathogenetischen
Hintergründe von WSL, deren klinisches Erscheinungsbild und diagnostische
Möglichkeiten sowie präventive und therapeutische Optionen basierend auf der
verfügbaren wissenschaftlichen Evidenz näher beleuchtet, um daraus klinische
Empfehlungen zum Umgang mit diesen Entitäten ableiten zu können. Zudem werden
bekannte Wirkungen von Medikamenten auf die kieferorthopädische Zahnbewegung
dargelegt und klinische Empfehlungen für den Umgang mit diesen Patienten
gegeben.
Zahnärztliche Schlafmedizin
Authors: Korbmacher-Steiner Heike
Published: September 2024

Zahnärztliche Schlafmedizin ist das derzeit „medizinischste“ aller
zahnmedizinischen Themen. Gemeinhin als Schnarchen bezeichnet, betrifft die
Schlafapnoe weltweit ca. 1 Milliarde Menschen und entwickelt sich somit
zunehmend zu einer der großen Volkskrankheiten. Hinter der lästigen nächtlichen
Ruhestörung verbirgt sich oftmals das Schlafapnoe-Syndrom, welches bei längerem
Bestehen häufig gravierende Folgen für die allgemeine Gesundheit hervorruft.
Schlaf ist ein lebenswichtiger, physiologischer Ruhezustand des Körpers. Da in
der Mundhöhle der von Schlafstörung betroffenen Patienten häufig klinische
Hinweise in Form von Schlafbruxismus, Zahnfrakturen oder Erosionen vorliegen,
können manchmal auch Zahnärzte in Kombination mit einfachen Fragebögen die
wichtige Verdachtsdiagnose stellen. Aber auch therapeutisch sind
zahnmedizinische Ansätze in der oftmals multidisziplinären Behandlung
abgebildet: Kieferorthopädische skelettale und auch funktionelle
Therapiekonzepte können hinsichtlich des posterioren Rachenraums stabilisierend
und/oder formverändernd wirken und somit präventionsorientiert angreifen. Die
Versorgung erwachsener Patienten mit einer Unterkieferprotrusionsschiene (UPS)
ist in aktuellen Leitlinien festgelegt und dort als Zweitlinientherapie fixiert.
Schlaf bezogene Atmungsstörungen können langfristig erfolgreich häufig nur
interdisziplinär unter Berücksichtigung des Patientenalters, der Ätiologie und
Ausprägung behandelt werden. Die Zahnmedizin ist hierbei zu einem wichtigen
Bestandteil geworden.
Network Activeoncokids – Centralized Physical Activity Counseling for
Children, adolescents, and Young Adults Across German-Speaking Countries
Throughout All Oncological Treatment Phases
Authors: Gauß Gabriele , Kesting Sabine , Boos Joachim , Reinhardt Dirk , Götte Miriam
Published: September 2024

Reaching age-appropriate physical activity levels is a significant challenge for
many children, adolescents, and young adults (CAYAs) with and following an
oncological disease. Many CAYAs require support in addressing physical
activity-specific questions and need assistance in accessing sports and exercise
offers in their local area. Since many clinics cannot provide such
time-intensive counseling, the nationwide operating network ActiveOncoKids
(NAOK), funded by the German Cancer Aid, offers individualized support to
participate in physical activity (PA). This paper describes the
NAOK-Physical-Activity-Counseling (-PAC) concept and evaluates the initial 200
consultations, focusing on recruitment, objectives, and oncology-specific
parameters. Ultimately, dimensions of barriers and facilitators and intervention
options are discussed.
Development and Validation of the Nursing Information Security Questionnaire
Authors: Zhou Xiaoyun , Jing Xiujuan , Gao Tingting , Liu Hong , Jing Xuebing
Published: September 2024

Background Ensuring the security of nursing information holds substantial importance to nursing outcomes and healthcare system management. The awareness of information security among nurses in China is generally inadequate, and there is a lack of standardized evaluation tools for nurse information security in nursing practice. The nursing sector necessitates the establishment of a robust culture surrounding information security.

Objective The aim of this study was to construct a self-reporting instrument for evaluating nursing information security.

Methods The research team utilized literature analysis and group discussions to draft the item pool. After two rounds of Delphi consultation by 15 experts and pilot testing, the initial questionnaire was formed. Item analysis was carried out on the questionnaire, and the validity and reliability of the instrument were statistically tested by computing the Keiser–Meier–Olkin and Bartlett's tests, an exploratory factor analysis (EFA), a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), convergent and discriminative validity, descriptive statistics, Cronbach's α, and test–retest reliability.

Results A total of 501 nurses participated in the study, supplemented by the inclusion of five experts who were invited to contribute to the assessment of content validity. Four factors were formed using EFA (n = 250), and the cumulative variance contribution rate was found to be 60.10%. The CFA (n = 251) showed that the model fit was good. The overall Cronbach's α coefficient of the questionnaire was 0.948, and the test–retest reliability was 0.837.

Conclusion Finally, the nursing information security questionnaire (NIS-Q) with 38 items and three dimensions of knowledge, attitude, and practice were formed. A promising assessment instrument for gauging the degree of nursing information security was introduced. Further, a foundational platform was established for implementing specific enhancement strategies aimed at advancing nursing information security.
Biallelic Mismatch Repair Deficiency in Children and Adolescents: A Review of Published and Unpublished Data from India—Need for an Indian Consortium
Authors: Sainulabdin Gazel , Kanvinde Purva , Khurana Ritika , Mudaliar Sangeeta , Bhat K Vasudeva , Shukla Anju , Krishnan V. P. , Krishnan Yamini
Published: September 2024

Introduction Biallelic mismatch repair deficiency or constitutional mismatch repair deficiency (CMMRD) is a rare and aggressive pediatric cancer predisposition syndrome that occurs as a result of homozygous (biallelic) pathogenic variants in mismatch repair genes. The primary malignancies that occur in CMMRD are mainly hematological and brain malignancies. Most published data are from the western populations and the Middle East. Data from India are limited to case reports. We performed an analysis to determine the prevalence of CMMRD in the Indian population.

Materials and Methods All children aged less than 18 years with a diagnosis of CMMRD from various centers in India were included. CMMRD confirmed using genetic, molecular, and clinical criteria by an international consensus was included in the analysis. Literature search and data submitted by individual centers were reviewed.

Results The analysis revealed that 22 children had genetically confirmed CMMRD. The median age of the cohort was 6.5 years, with a male predominance (male:female, 2:1). The classical phenotype of café-au-lait macules was observed in 72.7 % of subjects. The most common pathological variant was found in the PMS2 gene, which accounted for 77.3 % of children. Hematological malignancy (T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia) was the most common primary malignancy in our study that occurred at a median age of 5 years (interquartile range 4–6 years) followed by brain tumors. The age at initial presentation for CMMRD with mutations in MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2 was 5.4, 4, and 7.5 years, respectively.

Conclusion The diagnosis of CMMRD requires a high index of suspicion for the early diagnosis, management, surveillance, counseling, and testing of family members. The awareness about CMMRD in clinicians is important so that diagnosis is made early, and a second malignancy is detected and treated early. The need for an Indian consortium to determine the actual burden of the disease, genetic characteristics, and course of illness in our country has been emphasized.
Multicenter Clinical Randomized Controlled Trial and Network Pharmacology Analysis of Zhenzhu Qingyuan Granules for the Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Authors: Li Mengge , Dang Zhibo , Qian Peiguo , Yang Zhenhuan , Luo Lei , Li Bo , Xia Xingzhou , Ma Yingjie , Dang Zhongqin , Wang Yuliang
Published: September 2024

Objective To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of Zhenzhu Qingyuan Granules through a clinical randomized controlled trial and to analyze the potential action targets and pathways of this formula using network pharmacology.

Methods Patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) of liver–stomach stagnant heat pattern who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were randomly divided into the control group and the observation group. The control group received oral rabeprazole, whereas the observation group were given Zhenzhu Qingyuan Granules in addition to the rabeprazole. The treatment duration was 8 weeks. Clinical efficacy was observed in both groups after 8 weeks. Network pharmacology was used to analyze the action targets of Zhenzhu Qingyuan Granules and the genes related to GERD, and core targets were inferred. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses were conducted to explore the potential mechanisms of this formula.

Results The clinical research results showed that the total effective rate in the treatment group was 92.68%, compared with 70.00% in the control group, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). After treatment, both Chinese medicine syndrome score and endoscopic score improved in both groups compared with before treatment (p < 0.05), and the treatment group showed greater improvement than the control group (p < 0.05). Network pharmacology identified effective components of Zhenzhu Qingyuan Granules for treating GERD, including quercetin, luteolin, and β-sitosterol, with potential action targets such as tumor protein 53 (TP53), protein kinase B (AKT1), and tumor necrosis factor.

Conclusion Zhenzhu Qingyuan Granules can significantly improve clinical symptoms in patients with GERD of liver–stomach stagnated heat pattern, enhance clinical efficacy, and have high safety. This formula may exert therapeutic effects through multiple targets and pathways.
Postchemotherapy Robot-Assisted Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection for Metastatic Testicular Cancer: Initial Experience at a Brazilian Oncology Center
Authors: Campos Tadeu José Fontenele Leite , Lott Felipe Monerrat , Sobel Jan Michael , Oliveira Walter Carlos , Campos Franz Santos
Published: September 2024

Introduction Testicular cancer is the most common neoplasm in men aged 20 to 40 years. Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection plays an essential role in the treatment of such patients. Conventional open surgery has a complication rate of 30 to 36%. Some case series have demonstrated that a robot-assisted technique presented safety, oncological efficacy, and yielded lower complication rates. We retrospectively evaluated peri- and postoperative outcomes of robot-assisted retroperitoneal lymph node dissection after chemotherapy performed in patients at Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Materials and Methods The present study included all patients who underwent postchemotherapy robot-assisted retroperitoneal lymph node dissection for the treatment of metastatic testicular cancer at INCA.

Results From August 2020 to November 2021, 5 robot-assisted retroperitoneal lymph node dissections were performed. The mean size of the resected mass was of 7.28 cm. The mean operative time was of 307.4 minutes, and the mean length of the postoperative hospital stay was of 3.2 days. The complication rate during the first 30 days after surgery was of 0%.

Conclusion Robot-assisted retroperitoneal lymph node dissection for metastatic testicular cancer demonstrated favorable perioperative outcomes, with no readmissions or complications within 30 days. Appropriate selection of patients for this technique is crucial. A larger sample with an extended follow-up is necessary for a definitive conclusion.
Neurological outcomes in neonates treated with therapeutic hypothermia: challenges in a developing country
Authors: Oliveira Rita Farias , Wagner Lucia Helena , Silva Alexandre Sousa da , Rodrigues Maura Calixto Cecherelli de , Lacerda Glenda Corrêa Borges de
Published: September 2024

Background Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) affects 1.5 newborns per 1 thousand term live births. Therapeutic hypothermia (TH) does not prevent all adverse outcomes. The experience with TH is still limited in Latin America. In Rio de Janeiro, Hospital Universitário Pedro Ernesto treats neonates with HIE since 2017 using the servo-controlled system.

Objective To describe the frequency of epilepsy, altered neurological exam, and neurodevelopmental delay at 12 months of age in patients treated with TH in a reference hospital in Rio de Janeiro and to evaluate the possible risk associations with clinical data and data from complementary exams.

Methods We evaluated medical records from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit hospitalization and from first evaluation recorded at 12 months of age in the High-Risk Neonate Follow-up Outpatient Sevice.

Results A total of 30 subjects were included in the study. We found epilepsy in 18.2% of the patients, altered neurological exam in 40.9%, and neurodevelopmental delay in 36.4%. We also found a significant relationship between altered magnetic resonance imaging scan and subsequent altered neurological exam. Our findings are in line with those of the international literature, which shows that adverse outcomes are still observed, even when TH is applied. Brazilian data shows our limited access to complementary exams. The rate of loss to follow-up was of 26.6%, probably due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and to unfavorable socioeconomic conditions. More time for prospective follow-up and protocol adjustments should contribute to improve our data.

Conclusion High incidences of epilepsy, altered neurological exams, and neurodevelopmental delay were found, despite the use of TH. A more efficient use of resources is needed, as well as measures such as early intervention.
Knowledge of dementia and Alzheimer's disease among healthcare professionals in Peru
Authors: Malaga Marco , Aguirre Rafhael J. , Alva-Diaz Carlos , Custodio Nilton , Lanata Serggio , Montesinos Rosa , Pintado-Caipa Maritza
Published: September 2024

Background Primary care physicians and other healthcare providers report feeling unprepared to treat persons with dementia (PWD), especially in developing countries

Objective We aimed to assess the knowledge of dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD) among health professionals in both primary and tertiary care in Peru.

Methods We conducted an in-person and virtual survey of healthcare professionals trained in Peru throughout the year 2020. The survey was developed based on a previously published one and reviewed by an expert panel. We compared groups using a Chi-squared test. A Bonferroni corrected p-value of 0.008 was used for statistical significance.

Results Out of 804 surveys, we excluded 56 due to incomplete data. A total of 41.6% of respondents were doctors and 21.8%, nurses. One fifth of participants did not recognize AD as a cause of dementia and over half considered “senile dementia” a valid clinical entity. Scores were higher among those with postgraduate training, multiple patients with dementia, or those who had practiced for over 10 years.

Conclusion There is a low level of knowledge of dementia and AD among health professionals in Peru, which worsens outside of Lima. Pernicious ideas, such as senile dementia, are still significantly present among respondents.
Effect of Smart Pill Box on Improving Adherence to 6-Mercaptopurine Maintenance Therapy in Pediatric ALL
Authors: Abhilasha S. , Bagalkotkar Apoorva
Published: September 2024

Introduction 6-Mercaptopurine (6-MP) forms the backbone of maintenance chemotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). A Children's Oncology Group study found 3.9-fold increased risk of relapse in children with 6-MP adherence less than 90%.

Objective This article estimates the impact of smart pill box in improving adherence to 6-MP during maintenance phase chemotherapy in children with ALL.

Material and Methods It is a prospective interventional study done at pediatric oncology clinic of a tertiary care hospital. Participants being 40 newly diagnosed children with ALL. Baseline adherence was assessed and impact of smart pill box was estimated after using it for 60 days. Subjective and objective assessment of baseline adherence and adherence after intervention was done by subjecting the parents of the children to Morisky Medication Adherence Score 8 (MMAS-8) and measurement of patient's red blood cells (RBC) 6-MP metabolites (6-thioguanine [TGN] and 6-methylmercaptopurine [MMP]) levels, respectively, pre- and postintervention.

Results The mean age was 7.39 ± 4.29 years. NUDT15*3 polymorphism was present in 10.26%, and none had TPMT polymorphism. Baseline assessment of adherence to 6-MP by MMAS-8 revealed low, medium, and high adherence in 7.5, 35, and 57.5%, respectively. Baseline 6-TGN and 6-MMP levels by cluster analysis revealed poor adherence in 10%. Following intervention, mean MMAS-8 improved from 7.34 ± 0.78 to 7.66 ± 0.55 (p-value < 0.015) and the median 6-TGN level improved from 150 to 253 pmol/8 × 108 RBCs (p-value < 0.001).

Conclusion Nonadherence to 6-MP is widely prevalent in Indian children. Simple measures like smart pill box can improve adherence.
Isolated Cleft Foot: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Rout Sunil Kumar , Mallik Mainak , Pant Priyanka , Rajpoot Akanksha
Published: September 2024

Cleft foot is a rare congenital anomaly (syndromic/isolated). Although there have been published reports about this anomaly, none has so far described standardized treatment guidelines. In this case report, we describe the details of operative management of an isolated cleft foot in an 8-year-old girl with a brief review of literature, keeping in mind the aims of the treatment, governed by the local culture and preferred footwear design in the Indian scenario.
Venous Thromboembolism Risk Assessment and Thromboprophylaxis Practice in Hospitalized Medical Patients: The Experience of a Singapore Teaching Hospital
Authors: Lee Sin Yin , Er Chaozer
Published: September 2024

Despite the availability of institutional guidelines, the practice of venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk assessment and thromboprophylaxis remains inadequate in Singapore. With hospital-associated VTE (HA-VTE) being a common cause of preventable mortality for medical patients, it is vital for prompt, appropriate prescription of thromboprophylaxis after VTE risk assessment. This study aimed to (1) assess the local practice of VTE risk assessment and prophylaxis according to institutional guidelines, (2) study the risk factors of potential preventable HA-VTE among hospitalized medical patients, and (3) improve the quality of care with respect to early prevention of HA-VTE. An audit was performed on daily new admissions to two general medical wards in a teaching hospital in Singapore (total capacity of 76 beds) over 2 weeks. Each new admission's medical records were reviewed to examine whether (1) VTE risk assessment was performed by the managing medical teams, (2) thromboprophylaxis was prescribed during admission in high VTE risk patients, and (3) any contraindications to pharmacological thromboprophylaxis for cases with high VTE risk but no pharmacological thromboprophylaxis prescribed was present. Only 1 out of 52 cases had VTE risk assessment performed. Thirty-one cases (59.1%) were identified to have high VTE risk using the Padua Prediction Score. However, only 1 out of the 31 cases (3.2%) had VTE prophylaxis prescribed. Adherence to local institutional guidelines remains poor despite increasing awareness of the importance of VTE risk assessment and prophylaxis in the prevention of associated morbidity and mortality. Certain patient profiles should prompt clinicians to perform VTE risk assessment.
The Emerging Role of the Microbiota and Antibiotics in Diverticulitis Treatment
Authors: Troester Alexander , Weaver Lauren , Jahansouz Cyrus
Published: September 2024

Diverticular disease is the leading cause of elective colon surgery. With a rising incidence in younger populations, it continues to pose a significant burden on the health care system. Traditional etiopathogenesis implicated an infectious mechanism, while recent challenges to this theory have demonstrated the microbiome playing a significant role, along with genetic predispositions and associations with obesity and diet. Therefore, the role of antibiotics in uncomplicated disease merits reconsideration. In this review, we aim to outline the current knowledge regarding antibiotics for diverticulitis treatment, broadly define the microbiome components, functions, and modifiability, and discuss newly proposed pathogenetic mechanisms for diverticular disease that incorporate information regarding the microbiome. Analytic techniques for microbiota characterization and function continue to advance at a rapid pace. As emerging technology advances, we will continue to elucidate the role of the microbiome in diverticular disease development.
Effect of Zn-substitution on magnetic structure of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles
Authors: Jovanović Sonja , Yaacoub Nader , Slimani Sawssen , Kržmanc Marjeta Maček , Vukomanović Marija , Spreitzer Matjaž , Peddis Davide , Omelyanchik Alexander
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the effects of Zn substitution on the magnetic properties of ∼5 nm cobalt ferrite nanoparticles (ZnxCo1−xFe2O4, where x = 0, 0.13, 0.34, and 0.55), demonstrating that Zn substitution induces complex changes in spin canting and prompts a redistribution of cations among the sublattices. We reconstructed the magnetic structure of these spinel ferrites by integrating the classical two-sublattice Néel model of ferrimagnetism with the data obtained from 57Fe Mössbauer spectrometry. Consequently, this research provides a comprehensive understanding of how Zn substitution tunes the magnetic properties of CoFe2O4 nanoparticles, offering valuable insights into the development of magnetic materials with tailored properties for various applications.
Towards automated detection of the endangered southern black-throated finch (Poephila cincta cincta)
Authors: Allen-Ankins Slade , Mula Laguna Juan , Schwarzkopf Lin
Published: September 2024

Context Biodiversity is declining worldwide, with many species decreasing in both number and range. Acoustic monitoring is rapidly becoming a common survey method in the ecologist’s toolkit that may aid in the conservation of endangered species, but effective analysis of long-duration audio recordings is still challenging. Aims The aims of this study were to: (1) develop and test call recognisers for the endangered southern black-throated finch (Poephila cincta cincta) as well as the similar sounding, but non-endangered, double-barred finch (Taeniopygia bichenovii); and (2) compare the ability of these recognisers to detect these species with that of on-ground bird surveys at under-surveyed locations in the Desert Uplands bioregion which is at the edge of the known range of the black-throated finch. Methods A range of convolutional neural network call recognition models were built and tested for both target species, before being deployed over new audio recordings collected at 25 sites during 2020, 2021 and 2022, and compared with the results of on-ground bird surveys at those same sites. Key results Call recognisers for both species performed well on test datasets from locations in the same area as the training data with an average area under the precision-recall curve (PRAUC) of 0.82 for black-throated finch and 0.87 for double-barred finch. On-ground bird surveys in the Desert Uplands bioregion detected black-throated finches at two locations in different years, and our call recognisers confirmed this with minimal post-validation of detections. Similar agreement between methods were obtained for the double-barred finch, with site occupancy in the Desert Uplands bioregion confirmed with audio recognition in all nine surveys with on-ground detections, as well as during four additional surveys that had no on-ground detections. Conclusions Using call recognisers to survey new locations for black-throated finch presence was equally successful as on-ground surveys, and with further refinements, such as retraining models with examples of commonly misclassified vocalisations added to the training data, minimal validation should be required to detect site presence. Implications Acoustic monitoring should be considered as a valuable tool to be used alongside manual surveys to allow effective monitoring and conservation of this endangered species.
Pang-ngooteekeeya weeng malangeepa ngeeye (remembering our future: bringing old ideas to the new)
Authors: Pascoe Jack , Clarke Marcus , Hickey Ebony , Prentice Laura , Couzens Vicki , Clarke John
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we highlight the poor health of the Australian environment and propose a new framing for how we care for Maar Country. We identify the basis for our Law/Lore of the Land and describe six guiding principles for our proposed biocultural landscape restoration approach. We also explore the way that our ancestors used cultural stories to guide the management of Country and we reflect on how we are adopting these same approaches today by giving culturally significant entities primacy in our approach to caring for Country. Finally, we extend an invitation to non-Aboriginal scientists, conservationists, and government agencies to work with us to care for Country, in a respectful and holistic manner. Position statement We, the authors of this paper, are all either Aboriginal Australians or employed by the Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation. We are all actively participating in the Pang-ngooteekeeya weeng malangeepa ngeeye project.
Lipid synthesis leads the way for invasive migration
Authors: Machesky Laura M.
Published: September 2024

Invasive migration requires cells to break through extracellular matrix barriers, which is an energy-expensive process. In this issue, Park et al. (https://doi.org/10.1083/jcb.202402035) highlight the importance of biosynthesis of fatty acids, phospholipids, and isoprenoids in driving invasive migration of the Caenorhabditis elegans anchor cell through a basement membrane barrier during development.
Exploration of the influence factors on contact resistance obtained from sudden discharge test on the large-bore metal-as-insulation REBCO magnet
Authors: Liu Shixian , Wang Lei , Zhang Zili , Wang Luoyuan , Zhou Benzhe , Chen Yong , Wang Luzhong , Wang Qiuliang
Published: September 2024

In this paper, the factors affecting the evaluation of the equivalent contact resistance of the magnet were investigated by sudden discharge tests in a large-bore conduction-cooled metal-as-insulation (MI) high-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnet with an inner diameter exceeding 450 mm and consisting of ninety double pancake coils. It was found that the evaluation results of the contact resistance of the magnet are influenced by the current, temperature, measurement position, and evaluation method. Subsequently, a power law relationship was used to describe the relationship of contact resistance with current and temperature, and the relationship of contact resistance with current showed an opposite trend to that expected, while the relationship with temperature was as expected. We compared the experimental results of other teams to try to provide a reasonable explanation for the above phenomenon. Additionally, we found a significant difference between the delay of the central and end magnetic fields and a difference in the evaluation results between the method of using the field to decay to 1/e of the initial value and the curve-fitting method. We analyze the reasons for these phenomena and give our explanations. Finally, based on our experimental results, a measurement method for the equivalent contact resistance of NI/MI HTS magnets was summarized to improve the evaluation accuracy. This paper is both the first systematic experimental study on the contact resistance of a large-scale object such as MI HTS magnets and a review of previous studies. The findings are hoped to provide guidance for evaluating equivalent contact resistance for NI/MI HTS magnets in future engineering applications.
Maximum acceleration and quantum clock: on the existence of a new universal constant
Authors: Fiordilino Emilio , Di Salvo Tiziana , Ciccarello Francesco , Iaria Rosario , Militello Benedetto , Roccati Federico , Burderi Luciano
Published: September 2024

In the pseudo-Euclidean Minkowski space, the four-dimensional volume element is invariant under Lorentz transformations. By hypothesising that in this space there is a minimum volume, it is possible to demonstrate the existence of a maximum acceleration. The volume element cannot be derived from the theory and must be obtained through direct measurement, thus it assumes the role of a bona fide universal constant. Two different estimates of the elementary volume are given, which differ by several orders of magnitude: the first is obtained in a pseudo-Euclidean space for particles with mass, and the second represents an absolute minimum volume, independent of the mass.
Enhancing auxetic gradient structures for hip joint implants to optimize stress shielding reduction
Authors: Mohammadi Ghalehney Sahel , Sadeghi Mohammad Hossein , Barati Hamed , Gharehbaghi Hussain
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the design and optimization of a porous hip implant to mitigate stress shielding. Initially, the focus was on determining the elastic modulus of a three-dimensional auxetic structure, primarily in the y-direction. Various methods—numerical, analytical, and experimental—were used to assess the elastic properties. Additive manufacturing was employed to create samples, which were then tested for their elastic properties through compression testing. The results revealed a strong correlation between the elastic modulus values obtained from simulations and experimental tests in the y-direction. To further enhance the implant’s performance and reduce stress shielding at the implant-bone interface, a gradient structure was introduced. This gradient design progressively increases the elastic modulus away from the bone contact surfaces, aligning closely with the bone’s modulus at the interface. The elastic modulus of this gradient structure was computed using Abaqus software and validated through analytical methods in MATLAB, with a minimal 4.8% difference between the two approaches, demonstrating high agreement. The application of a genetic algorithm enabled the creation of a porous hip implant tailored to minimize stress shielding throughout its structure. This innovative approach, integrating numerical, analytical, and experimental techniques with gradient structures, holds promise for improving hip implant performance and enhancing patient outcomes by reducing stress-shielding complications.
Role of nonthermal solar wind protons in the excitation of electromagnetic proton-cyclotron instability: a kinetic theory based exact numerical investigation
Authors: Ahmed Shahzad , Ahsan Shahzad Muhammad , -ur-Rehman Aman , Bilal Muhammad , Sarfraz Muhammad , Kaleem M
Published: September 2024

Free transverse kinetic energy i.e. perpendicular temperature anisotropy of protons excite the electromagnetic ion/proton cyclotron instability which is pertained to waves associated with prevalent electromagnetic ion/proton cyclotron emissions in various natural regions of plasmas. The transverse dielectric response function of left hand circularly polarized electromagnetic proton cyclotron (EPC) instability is calculated for two models of nonthermal Cairns distributed plasmas. These models are distinguished according to the effective thermal velocities of protons. For the energetic nonthermal protons populations, nonthermality dependent effective temperature model is proposed which significantly contributes in the excitation of aforementioned plasma mode and cause an appreciable enhancement in the instability growth rate. Exact numerical solution of dispersion relation yields oscillatory real frequency and growth rate of instability. A comparative analysis is also carried out to examine the instability behavior in distinct nonthermal and thermal plasma models. Contemporary numerical investigations are highly beneficial to understand the intricate dynamics of space plasmas.
Topological phase transitions and flat bands on a square-octagon lattice
Authors: Zhao Yu-Jie , Yan Xu-Hui , Han Ying , Zhang Xiuyun , Qi Lu , He Ai-Lei
Published: September 2024

We construct a square-octagon lattice model by considering the nearest-neighbor (NN) hoppings with staggered magnetic fluxes and the next-nearest-neighbor (NNN) hoppings, where zero-Chern-number topological insulator (ZCNTI) phases emerge. At 1/4 filling, by tuning the staggered fluxes and NNN hopping potential, this model supports the phase transition from a Chern insulator (CI) with Chern number C = 2 to a ZCNTI phase. At half filling, we observe that staggered magnetic fluxes can induce a higher-order topological insulator (HOTI) state. Interestingly, the ZCNTI appears at 3/4 filling when considering the NN and NNN hoppings in the absence of staggered fluxes, which has been rarely reported in previous work. Contrary to conventional HOTIs, this ZCNTI phase hosts both robust corner states and gapless edge states which can be identified based on the quantized dipole and quadrupole moments. Additionally, a topological flat band (TFB) with flatness ratio about 24 appears. We further investigate ν = 1/2 fractional Chern insulator (FCI) state when hard-core bosons fill into this TFB model.
Coexisting and multiple scroll attractors in a Hopfield neural network with a controlled memristor
Authors: Ma 马 Qing-Qing 青青 , Lu 陆 An-Jiang 安江 , Huang 黄 Zhi 智
Published: September 2024

A method of generating multi-double scroll attractors is proposed based on the memristor Hopfield neural network (HNN) under pulse control. First, the original hyperbolic-type memristor is added to the neural network mathematical model, and the influence of this memristor on the dynamic behavior of the new HNN is analyzed. The numerical results show that after adding the memristor, the abundant dynamic behaviors such as chaos coexistence, period coexistence and chaos period coexistence can be observed when the initial value of the system is changed. Then the logic pulse is added to the external memristor. It is found that the equilibrium point of the HNN can multiply and generate multi-double scroll attractors after the pulse stimulation. When the number of logical pulses is changed, the number of multi-double scroll attractors will also change, so that the pulse can control the generation of multi-double scroll attractors. Finally, the HNN circuit under pulsed stimulation was realized by circuit simulation, and the results verified the correctness of the numerical results.
Mesoscale eddies inhibit intensification of the Subantarctic Front under global warming
Authors: Li Dapeng , Jing Zhao , Cai Wenju , Zhang Zhengguang , Shi Jiuxin , Ma Xiaohui , Gan Bolan , Yang Haiyuan , Chen Zhaohui , Wu Lixin
Published: September 2024

Oceanic mesoscale eddies are important dynamical processes in the Southern Ocean. Using high-resolution (∼0.1° for the ocean) Community Earth System Model (CESM-HR) simulations under a high-carbon emission scenario, we investigate the role of mesoscale eddies in regulating the response of the Subantarctic Front (SAF) to global warming. The CESM-HR simulates more realistic oceanic fronts and mesoscale eddies in the Southern Ocean than a coarse-resolution (∼1° for the ocean) CESM. Under global warming, the SAF is projected to intensify. The mean flow temperature advection intensifies the front, whereas the mesoscale-eddy-induced temperature advection and atmospheric dampening play primary (∼67%) and secondary (∼28%) roles in counteracting the effect of mean flow temperature advection. Our study suggests the importance of mesoscale eddies on inhibiting the SAF intensification under global warming and necessity of mesoscale-eddy-resolving simulations for faithful projection of future climate changes in the Southern Ocean.
Unveiling the influence of synthesis techniques on crystallite size of CuInS2 nanostructures
Authors: Giri Ranjan Kr , Chaki Sunil H , Khimani Ankurkumar J , Deshpande Milind P
Published: September 2024

Copper indium disulfide (CuInS2) nanostructures are synthesized by wet precipitation and sol–gel techniques. The high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) analysis exhibits nanorods (NR) and nanocubes (NC) of CuInS2 resulting from wet precipitation and sol–gel methods, respectively. Their characterizations are accomplished by UV–vis-NIR spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and x-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The particle size is obtained from HRTEM, UV–vis-NIR, and DLS analyses. Average crystallite size is estimated via Scherrer’s method (graphical and analytical), Monshi-Scherrer method, Williamson–Hall relations (uniform deformation, uniform stress deformation, and uniform deformation energy-density models), size-strain plot method, and Halder-Wagner relation using XRD profile which is also compared with as-obtained particle size. Moreover, the XRD pattern reflection peaks are used to assess more accurately energy density, lattice stress, and microstrain values. The results affirm NR have higher crystallite size (∼22 nm) than NC (∼16 nm). The outcomes demonstrate outstanding agreement of predicted average crystallite sizes using the different approaches.
Quantum key distribution with unbounded pulse correlations
Authors: Pereira Margarida , Currás-Lorenzo Guillermo , Mizutani Akihiro , Rusca Davide , Curty Marcos , Tamaki Kiyoshi
Published: September 2024

Typical security proofs of quantum key distribution (QKD) require that the emitted signals are independent and identically distributed. In practice, however, this assumption is not met because intrinsic device flaws inevitably introduce correlations between the emitted signals. Although analyses addressing this issue have been recently proposed, they only consider a restrictive scenario in which the correlations have a finite and known maximum length that is much smaller than the total number of emitted signals. While it is expected that the magnitude of the correlations decreases as the pulse separation increases, the assumption that this magnitude is exactly zero after a certain point does not seem to have any physical justification. Concerningly, this means that the available analyses cannot guarantee the security of current QKD implementations. Here, we solve this pressing problem by developing a rigorous framework that, when combined with existing results, can guarantee security against pulse correlations of unbounded length. Our framework is rather general and could be applied to other situations for which the existing analyses consider a scenario that differs slightly from the actual one.
Spatiotemporal Gait Characteristics and Neuropsychological Performance in Midlife
Authors: Morrison Laura , Dyer Adam , Dolphin Helena , Killane Isabelle , Bourke Nollaig , Widowson Matthew , Woods Conor , Gibney James , Reilly Richard , Kennelly Sean
Published: September 2024

Background

Midlife risk factors such as Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) confer a significantly increased risk of cognitive impairment in later life, with executive function, memory and attention domains often affected first. Spatiotemporal gait characteristics are increasingly recognised as biomarkers of neurocognitive function and later dementia risk.

Methods

Using an automated walkway, 24 spatiotemporal gait parameters were examined across 5 domains of gait previously linked to cognitive function on usual-pace, maximal-pace, and cognitive dual-task gait conditions. Neurocognitive function was measured using a neuropsychological assessment battery. Linear regression was used assess the relationship between each gait parameter across the three walks and cognitive function.

Results

102 middle-aged adults underwent assessment, 65 with uncomplicated T2DM (57.5 ± 8.0 years; 40% female) and 37 healthy controls (57.0 ± 8.3 years; 62.1% female). T2DM was associated with significant changes in gait phases and rhythm domains at usual-pace, and greater gait variability observed during maximal-pace and dual-task. In the overall cohort, both gait pace and rhythm domains were associated with memory and executive function during usual pace walking. At maximal-pace, gait pace parameters were associated with reaction time and delayed memory. During the cognitive dual-task, associations between gait variability and delayed memory and executive function were observed. Associations persisted following covariate adjustment and did not differ by T2DM status.

Conclusion

This supports the use of spatiotemporal gait as an integrative biomarker of neurocognitive function in otherwise healthy middle-aged individuals. Discrete associations were seen between both differing gait tasks and gait domains with domain-specific neuropsychological performance. Employing both maximal-pace and dual-task paradigms, in addition to single-task usual-pace gait, may be important in cognitively unimpaired populations with risk factors for later cognitive decline - with the aim of identifying individuals who may benefit most from potential preventative interventions.
A Multi-disciplinary Journey to Developing a Delirium Friendly Emergency Department
Authors: Brolly Amanda , Randles Mary , Li Christine Chiang Huey , Brick Jacqueline , Maher Mairin , Buckley Mary , Fitzmaurice Kay , Carmody Chris , O'Carroll Susan
Published: September 2024

Background

Delirium is a syndrome characterized by an acute change in attention, awareness and cognition. It has an organic cause and is likely to be reversible or preventable. It is a medical emergency that can often go undetected in an acute hospital setting. Currently the best management strategies for a delirium are multi-domain interventions that focus on treating precipitating conditions, medication review, managing distress and mitigating complications. An audit in 2022 identified that 40% of patients in the Emergency Department (ED) had an undetected delirium. A quality improvement initiative using Plan, Do, Study, Act (PDSA) methodology was undertaken to address this. A multi-disciplinary local working group was developed. The overall aim was to improve the patient's journey through early identification and management of delirium. This involved environmental changes such as high support chairs, signage and a delirium trolley. All staff received training on the identification and management of a delirium. In December 2023 delirium screening on all patients > 65 years was introduced in the ED as part of a delirium pathway. In April 2024 the pathway was re-audited.

Methods

Retrospective audit of the delirium pathway. Medical and nursing notes on all patients >65 years presenting to the ED over a 30-hour period were reviewed.

Results

(n=40) patients > 65 years presented to the ED over the 30-hour period. 6 medical notes could not be retrieved. (n=34) medical records were reviewed. The audit showed 14.7% of patients had a delirium screen recorded in their medical notes. One patient had an acute delirium on the ward that was not identified in the ED. There was no positive delirium score.

Conclusion

Delirium screening in the ED is sub-optimal. It is unclear from the audit why delirium screening compliance is so low. Conclusions can be drawn that processes around the identification of delirium need to be reviewed.