bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Muscle stiffness indicating mission crew health in space
Authors: Schoenrock Britt , Muckelt Paul E. , Hastermann Maria , Albracht Kirsten , MacGregor Robert , Martin David , Gunga Hans-Christian , Salanova Michele , Stokes Maria J. , Warner Martin B. , Blottner Dieter
Published: February 2024

Muscle function is compromised by gravitational unloading in space affecting overall musculoskeletal health. Astronauts perform daily exercise programmes to mitigate these effects but knowing which muscles to target would optimise effectiveness. Accurate inflight assessment to inform exercise programmes is critical due to lack of technologies suitable for spaceflight. Changes in mechanical properties indicate muscle health status and can be measured rapidly and non-invasively using novel technology. A hand-held MyotonPRO device enabled monitoring of muscle health for the first time in spaceflight (> 180 days). Greater/maintained stiffness indicated countermeasures were effective. Tissue stiffness was preserved in the majority of muscles (neck, shoulder, back, thigh) but Tibialis Anterior (foot lever muscle) stiffness decreased inflight vs. preflight (p < 0.0001; mean difference 149 N/m) in all 12 crewmembers. The calf muscles showed opposing effects, Gastrocnemius increasing in stiffness Soleus decreasing. Selective stiffness decrements indicate lack of preservation despite daily inflight countermeasures. This calls for more targeted exercises for lower leg muscles with vital roles as ankle joint stabilizers and in gait. Muscle stiffness is a digital biomarker for risk monitoring during future planetary explorations (Moon, Mars), for healthcare management in challenging environments or clinical disorders in people on Earth, to enable effective tailored exercise programmes.
A paper-based chromogenic strip and electrochemical sensor for the detection of 4-(dimethylamino)azobenzene
Authors: Rai Pawankumar , Mehrotra Srishti , Verma Suryansh , Sharma Sandeep K.
Published: February 2024

A recognition solution was developed for the detection of 4-(dimethylamino)azobenzene and translated to prepare a chromogenic strip and an electrochemical sensor.
Ultra-fast synthesis of hierarchical SAPO-11 molecular sieves with the assistance of hydroxyl radicals
Authors: Zheng Dejiang , Liu Xinchun , Shan Yuling , Yu Shitao , Wang Xiaosheng , Liu Yuxiang
Published: February 2024

Hydroxyl radicals accelerate the synthesis of SAPO-11 within 5 min.
Ce-doping induces rapid electron transfer in a bimetallic phosphide heterostructure to achieve efficient hydrogen production
Authors: Wang Maobin , Liu Zhaochen , Guo Shiyu , Liu Wenzhe , Ji Changpeng , Wang Lu , Yao Daohong
Published: February 2024

Using electrochemical water splitting to generate hydrogen is considered a desirable approach, which is greatly impeded by the sluggish dissociation of H2O and adsorption and desorption of H*.
Hypoglycemic effects and associated mechanisms of resveratrol and related stilbenes in diet
Authors: Peng Jie , Lu Chenyang , Luo Yue , Su Xiurong , Li Shiming , Ho Chi-Tang
Published: February 2024

Hyperglycemia has become a global health problem due to changes in diet and lifestyle.
Tempeh fermentation improves the nutritional and functional characteristics of Jack beans (Canavalia ensiformis (L.) DC)
Authors: Purwandari Fiametta Ayu , Fogliano Vincenzo , Capuano Edoardo
Published: February 2024

The effect of two methods of processing Jack beans (cooked bean (CB) and cooked tempeh (CT)) on composition, protein and starch digestion, and formation of gut microbial metabolites was investigated.
Effect of dimensionality on the excitation wavelength dependence of the Fano-Raman line-shape: a brief review
Authors: Tanwar Manushree , Kumar Rajesh
Published: February 2024

Raman line shapes depending on the excitation wavelength is one of the confirmations for the presence of Fano resonance in any material, but the same is often not clearly visible in low dimensional materials owing to several system-specific reasons.
Ion imaging of spatially inhomogeneous nanoplasmas in NaCl particles
Authors: Ban Loren , Tang Hanchao , Heitland Jonas , West Christopher W. , Yoder Bruce L. , Thanopulos Ioannis , Signorell Ruth
Published: February 2024

Single-shot velocity-map imaging is used to investigate ion emission mechanisms from under-dense NaCl nanoplasmas. Spatially inhomogeneous nanoplasma can be exploited to retrieve size and orientation of free-flying aerosol particles.
A high-performance broadband phototransistor array of a PdSe2/SOI Schottky junction
Authors: Chen Yexin , Zhu Qinghai , Sun Jiabao , Sun Yijun , Hanagata Nobutaka , Xu Mingsheng
Published: February 2024

We demonstrate a phototransistor based on a PdSe2/Si heterojunction on a SOI substrate, which exhibits high photoelectric performance. The photoelectric performance of the device can be further improved under gate voltage regulation.
Nanostructured electrocatalysts for organic synthetic transformations
Authors: Mancuso Francesco , Fornasiero Paolo , Prato Maurizio , Melchionna Michele , Franco Federico , Filippini Giacomo
Published: February 2024

This minireview aims at highlighting the most recent advances in the production of electrocatalytically active nanomaterials and their applications in organic catalysis.
Porphyrinoid framework embedded with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons: new synthetic marvels
Authors: Yadav Bharti , Ravikanth Mangalampalli
Published: February 2024

Porphyrinoids containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in their framework exhibit altered π-delocalization pathways in macrocycles, act as ligands to stabilize metals in unusual oxidation states and help in understanding aromaticity.
Thermal- and oxidation dual-responsive random copolymer self-assembly of nanostructures
Authors: Lou Lan , Zhang Shiling , Mahdy Al-Hassan S. , Wang Meng , Li Kai , Xing Qi , Geng Jin
Published: February 2024

One-step PISA creates thermal- and oxidation-responsive nanostructures using random copolymers.
Stereoselective polymerization of epoxides using organoboron catalysts
Authors: Fang Yu-Bo , Qi Huan , Li Bo , Yang Guan-Wen , Wu Guang-Peng
Published: February 2024

A suite of chiral binary and bifunctional organoboron catalysts were designed and utilized for the stereoselective polymerization of epoxides into isotactic-enriched polyethers with moderate isotacticities of 62.1%m–84.8%m and narrow dispersities.
s-Block metal complexes of superbulky (tBu3Si)2N−: a new weakly coordinating anion?
Authors: Knüpfer Christian , Klerner Lukas , Mai Jonathan , Langer Jens , Harder Sjoerd
Published: February 2024

The extremely challenging deprotonation of the amine (tBu3Si)2NH led to a range of s-block metal complexes with superbulky (tBu3Si)2N−. Depending on metal and solvent, (tBu3Si)2N− can be classified as a halogen-free weakly coordinating anion.
Cell culture models for assessing the effects of bioactive compounds in common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum): a systematic review
Authors: Borgonovi Sara Margherita , Iametti Stefania , Speranza Anna Ramona , Di Nunzio Mattia
Published: February 2024

Systematic review of studies on the biological effect of common buckwheat supplementation on cellular models.
Selective production of bicyclic alkanes as high-density fuel additives by coupling lignocellulose-derived furanics and phenolics
Authors: Huang Shumin , Luo Xiaolin , Li Ji , Liu Sibao , Shuai Li
Published: February 2024

High-density bicyclohexyl hydrocarbon fuel additives were selectively synthesized from lignin-derived monophenolics and carbohydrate-derived furanics.
A biomimetic approach to lycogarubin C, lynamicin D and related analogues
Authors: Li Wenxue , Liu Sheng
Published: February 2024

An efficient and biomimetic synthetic approach to 3,4-diindolylpyrrole-2,5-dicarboxylate derivatives, including lycogarubin C, lynamicin D and related analogues, was discovered.
Direct synthesis of conjugated tetraenes from 1,3-enynes with 1,3-dienes
Authors: Maekawa Kanako , Komine Nobuyuki , Kiyota Sayori , Hirano Masafumi
Published: February 2024

New direct access to conjugated tetraenes has been achieved by cross-dimerisation of 1,3-enynes with 1,3-dienes.
Stereoselective synthesis of d-glycero-d-manno-heptose-1β,7-bisphosphate (HBP) from d-mannurono-2,6-lactone
Authors: Shinotsuka Yuta , Nakajima Riko , Ogawa Kohei , Takise Kaede , Takeuchi Yutaka , Tanaka Hiroshi , Sasaki Kaname
Published: February 2024

The synthesis of HBP is distinguished by the β-steroselective glycosylation of phosphate and ketone formation from the 2,6-lactone through the utilization of a C1 nucleophile.
Preparation of fluorinated polyesters by reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer step-growth polymerization
Authors: Mei Gaohuai , Lei Shujing , Li Qili , Xu Jianquan , Huo Meng
Published: February 2024

Reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) step-growth polymerization was exploited to prepare fluorinated polyesters, and their thermal and surface properties were correlated with the chemical structures.
The missing quasar image in the gravitationally lensed quasar HE0230−2130: Implications for the cored lens mass distribution and dark satellites
Authors: Ertl S. , Schuldt S. , Suyu S. H. , Schechter P. L. , Halkola A. , Wagner J.
Published: February 2024

Strongly lensed systems with peculiar configurations allow us to probe the local properties of the deflecting lens mass while simultaneously testing general profile assumptions. The quasar HE0230−2130 is lensed by two galaxies at similar redshifts (Δz ∼ 0.003) into four observed images. Using modeled quasar positions from fitting the brightness of the quasar images in ground-based imaging data from theMagellantelescope, we find that lens-mass models where each of these two galaxies is parametrized with a singular power-law (PL) profile predict five quasar images. One of the predicted images is unobserved despite it being distinctively offset from the lensing galaxies and likely bright enough to be observable. This missing image gives rise to new opportunities to study the mass distribution of these galaxies. To interpret the quad configuration of the system, we tested 12 different profile assumptions with the aim of obtaining lens-mass models that correctly predict only four observed images. We tested the effects of adopting: cored profiles for the lensing galaxies; external shear; and additional profiles to represent a dark matter clump. We find that half of our model classes can produce the correct image multiplicity. By comparing the Bayesian evidence of different model parametrizations, we favor two model classes: (i) one that incorporates two singular PL profiles for the lensing galaxies and a cored isothermal sphere in the region of the previously predicted fifth image (rNIS profile), and (ii) one with a bigger lensing galaxy parametrized by a singular PL profile and the smaller galaxy by a cored PL profile with external shear. We estimated the mass of the rNIS clump for each candidate model of our final Markov chain Monte Carlo sample, and find that only 2% are in the range of 106 M⊙ ≤ MrNIS ≤ 109 M⊙, which is the predicted mass range of dark matter subhalos in cold dark matter simulations, or the mass of dark-matter-dominated and low-surface-brightness galaxies. We therefore favor the models with a cored mass distribution for the lens galaxy close to the predicted fifth image. Our study further demonstrates that lensed quasar images are sensitive to the dark matter structure in the gravitational lens. We are able to describe this exotic lensing configuration with relatively simple models, which demonstrates the power of strong lensing for studying galaxies and lens substructure.
Energy mapping of Jupiter’s auroral electrons from Juno/UVS data using a new H2 UV emission model
Authors: Benmahi B. , Bonfond B. , Benne B. , Grodent D. , Hue V. , Gladstone G. R. , Gronoff G. , Lilensten J. , Sicorello G. , Head L. A. , Barthélemy M. , Simon Wedlund C. , Giles R. S. , Greathouse T. K.
Published: February 2024

Context. Juno, which studies the Jovian system, continues to expand our knowledge of Jupiter’s magnetosphere and its environment. Thanks to onboard instruments such as Jupiter Energetic Particle Detector Instrument (JEDI) and Jovian Auroral Distributions Experiment (JADE), in situ measurements have allowed us to derive a realistic representation of charged particle energy distributions precipitating in the auroral regions. Because of the distance between Juno’s measurement location and the position of impact of the charged particles, where auroral emissions are produced, these energetic distributions of magnetospheric particles are likely to be affected by various phenomena such as wave-particle interactions on their way from Juno to the atmosphere. These processes can accelerate or decelerate the particles, changing their average energies. Hence, the energy distributions of particles measured at Juno’s altitude are likely different from those at auroral altitudes.

Aims. In this study we develop a UV emission model, combined with an electron transport model, that allows us to relate the auroral emission spectra of H2 molecules with the energy distribution of impinging electrons.

Methods. Thanks to observations of the Jovian aurora by the Ultraviolet Spectrograph (UVS) on board Juno, we determined the characteristic energies of electrons precipitating in auroral regions during perijove 32. We modeled the relationship between color ratio (CR) and the characteristic energy of precipitating electrons. Initially, we considered mono-energetic electron fluxes. In a second step, we considered fluxes governed by a kappa distribution.

Results. We derived characteristic energy maps for electrons precipitating in Jupiter’s auroral regions. In comparison with similar previous studies based on Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph on board Hubble Space Telescope (HST/STIS) observations, we find that modeling the CR with a mono-energetic distribution leads to a systematic underestimation of the average energy of electrons precipitating in the auroral regions by a factor of 3–5.

Conclusions. In this study we show that it is possible to derive a more realistic estimate of electron energy flux distributions at auroral altitudes.
Towards Striga-resistant Gene pool in Nigerian Pearl millet landraces
Authors: Maryam Dawud , John Eleblu , Ignatius Angarawai , Pangirayi Tongoona , Kwadwo Ofori
Published: February 2024

Parasitism of crop plants by Striga species is a major constraint in the savannah zones of West Africa. A germplasm collection comprised of 240 accessions of pearl millet was screened under natural Striga hermonthica infestation to identify sources of Striga resistance. Data were collected at different time points, specifically at 70, 90 and 140 days after planting for Striga count, Striga vigour and Striga severity. Number of panicles, panicle weight and Grain yield were also measured. The results revealed significant variation in the resistance of pearl millet genotypes to Striga. Fifteen genotypes identified as the most resistant were free of emerged Striga shoots, 10 genotypes supported 14 Striga shoots but with appreciable yield and 15 genotypes with 1-4 Striga shoots and low grain yield. Principal Component and cluster analyses grouped these genotypes into 3 main clusters medium yielding tolerant to Striga, low yielding susceptible to Striga and medium to high yielding resistant to Striga. The high level of resistance observed in some breeding lines enabled the selection of suitable parents for population development.
Characterization of the length and the distance of insertion of the branches of apple trees
Authors: Bounsir Badr , Ibriz Mohammed , Zegoumou Abderrahim , El Housni Zakariae , Amlal Fouad , Fagroud Mustapha
Published: February 2024

The current study focused on the branches Cherry Gala variety of apple in Azrouregion.The objective is to characterize the length and the insertion distance of different structures of apple trees based on nondestructive and exhaustive measurements of the branches. In total 2982 branches were identified and measured in the two stages (stage 1, stage 2) on different 6 levels present at each stage known as A, B, C, D, E, and F. The length of the branches in each stage and level was classified into 1 to 5 homogeneous classes. The length of vegetative branch variation was not significant between stages 1 and 2 but the insertion distance was significant for level D and not for levels A, B, and C. For five different length structures bearing fruit, the variation was significantly different for B, C, and D levels between stages 1 and 2 (length of fruiting spurs/ Dard/ Bourse; insertion distance of Dard and Bourse). The analysis showed that the length of the branches decreases while passing from one first stage to the second. The average branch length for stage 1 is 4,84 cm against 4,05 cm for stage 2. In each stage, the length decreases progressively while passing from one level to a higher level, except for level E of stage 1 and levels E and F of stage 2.
Controlling Fusarium head blight in wheat through a Mixture of varieties in an organic production system
Authors: Bozalmat Wissal , Alaoui Si Bennasseur , Sidikou Abdel Aziz Hassane , Abouabdillah Aziz
Published: February 2024

In the organic production system, the management of diseases and pests is based on agricultural practices rather than the use of certified phytosanitary inputs. The mixture of varieties is an agricultural practice that has shown its interest not only in the management of diseases and pests but also in the increase and stability of crop yields. The objective of our study is to evaluate the performance of this practice in the management of fusarium head blight in wheat. To achieve this objective, we conducted four trials. Two trials (one on durum and the other on soft wheat) in 2019 on a certified organic farm and the two trials were repeated in 2020. During the two years of experimentation, we compared the mixture of four durum wheat varieties and the mixture of four soft wheat varieties with the monoculture varieties. In the field, we evaluated the severity of Fusarium head blight and wheat yield components as well as the grain yield. The results showed a significant difference between the different treatments for Fusarium head blight severity and yield components for both species and in both years of the experiment.
Assessing the performance of an agroforestry system based on quinoa and olive trees under saline irrigation
Authors: Abidi Ilham , Daoui Khalid , Abouabdillah Aziz , Mahyou Hamid , Bazile Didier , Alaoui Si Bennasseur
Published: February 2024

In the context of climate change, agricultural productivity, especially in semi-arid areas, is facing serious challenges ranging from water scarcity to soil degradation and perpetual salinization. Therefore, looking for sustainable and resilient cropping systems has been a priority of the National strategy « Green Generation2020-2030 ». Agroforestry could be a sustainable way to diversify and improve land productivity through the complementary and facilitating potential of its components. This study aims to introduce quinoa as a halophyte crop to scale up the performance of current olive-based intercropping systems. The field experiment was conducted in an organic farm under saline irrigation (6 dS/m) and was laid out in a randomized complete block design with two cropping systems: monocropping (SC) and agroforestry systems (AFS), four quinoa cultivars (Puno, Titicaca, ICBA-Q5 and ICBA-Q4) and one olive plot as a control (OR) in each block. The average grain and straw yields for quinoa were significantly reduced in AFS, respectively by 33%and 45% while average olive yield was not affected by the cropping system. In addition, the Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) was always higher than one, confirming the performance of the agroforestry system based on quinoa and olive tree under saline irrigation.
Productivity and water saving of ‘Fortune’ plum under different water regimes
Authors: Radi Soukaina , Abouabdillah Aziz , Asfers Adil , Bourioug Mohamed , Fagroud Mustapha , Bouabid Rachid , El-Bergui Omnia
Published: February 2024

This study was conducted over four consecutive years (2015-2018) in the Sefrou region of Morocco, between Sais and the Middle Atlas Mountains. The goal of the study was to assess how plum trees respond to three different irrigation strategies: a normal supply of water (T2) to meet 100% of crop water needs; an irrigation deficit (T1) that provides only 75% of the water needs; and an additional water supply of 25% (T3) above the crop needs. The study found that deficient irrigation (T1) had no significant effect on plum yield or average fruit weight at harvest, but an excess water supply of 25% (T3) over the requirements (T2) resulted in higher yields and average fruit weight than the control. T3 also showed an increase in fruit size at harvest compared to the control, but not in T1 compared to T2. However, the excess water input for T3 did not justify the excess yield in terms of water use efficiency (WUE). On the other hand, T1 maintained the same level of production as the control while saving water, which resulted in a higher WUE compared to T2 and T3..
Copulas and hydro-economic models for assessing the impacts of climate change in irrigated agriculture
Authors: El ouadi Ihssan , Badaoui Fadoua
Published: February 2024

Climate change significantly affects water resources through alterations in rainfall patterns, reduced rainfall quantities, rising temperatures, and prolonged drought cycles. Consequently, the escalating demand for water coupled with diminishing water availability is anticipated to lead to a critical water scarcity issue in the future unless proactive and innovative strategies are implemented.The impact of climate change on water resources is globally recognized as an increasingly vital concern, given its intricate interconnections with various sectors, notably agriculture, energy, and the provision of drinking water. Consequently, the scientific community has dedicated substantial efforts to devise optimal water resource management strategies in response to the challenges posed by climate change. Over the past four decades, hydro-economic models (HEM) have been instrumental in proposing solutions to adapt to evolving climatic conditions.This paper presents a newhydro-economic optimization model accounting for climatic uncertainties. The problem is formulated as a chance-constrained program in which the dependence structure between hydrologic and meteorologic variables is modeled using copula theory. The novelty of the approach lies in the capacity of the model to optimize the water resources, taking into account the dependence between agronomic, socio-economic, and hydrologic systems and climatic uncertainties.
On spectral properties of digraphs about maximum distance
Authors: Xu Leyou , Wang Shilin , Zhou Bo
Published: February 2024

The maximum distance matrix of a strongly connected digraph is a symmetric matrix whose rows and columns are indexed the vertices, the entries of which correspond to the maximum directed distance between the vertices. In this paper, we determine the digraphs that uniquely minimize the largest eigenvalue of the maximum distance matrix in some classes of strongly connected digraphs, and the n-vertex strongly connected digraphs for which the maximum distance matrices have an eigenvalue with multiplicity n − 1.
Rigor mit Hyperthermie
Authors: Ionov Alexander , Schröder Stefan G.
Published: February 2024

Bei neu auf Intensivstation (ITS) aufgenommenen, vital bedrohten Patienten mit Rigor und Hyperthermie kann das Fehlen einer brauchbaren klinischen Anamnese (einschließlich Vormedikation) zu differenzialdiagnostischen Schwierigkeiten führen. In Betracht kommen bei diesem klinischen Bild mindestens 4 nosologische Entitäten. 1. maligne Katatonie (MK), 2. malignes neuroleptisches Syndrom (MNS), 3. Parkinsonismus-Hyperpyrexie-Syndrom (PHS) und 4. maligne Hyperthermie (MH). Diese 4 Krankheiten ähneln sich, trotz ihrer Zugehörigkeit zu verschiedenen medizinischen Disziplinen. Das erinnert an die Beobachtung von Viktor von Weizsäcker, des Heidelberger Begründers der Psychosomatik, der den Terminus „Ausdrucksgemeinschaft“ für ähnliche Krankheitsbilder mit unterschiedlicher Ätiologie geprägt hat. Für 3 der 4 Entitäten (d. h. MK, MNS und PHS) kann die Elektrokonvulsivtherapie (EKT) als etablierte Behandlung angesehen werden, nach oder vor Versagen medikamentöser Versuche einzusetzen. Der Gebrauch volatiler Anästhetika auf ITS nimmt zu, sodass damit mit einer Inzidenzerhöhung von MH auf ITS zu rechnen ist.

Wir präsentieren Ergebnisse aus der Grundlagenforschung zur vermuteten Pathophysiologie der 4 Entitäten, zudem mit klinischer Literatur zum Stellenwert von EKT in diesem Feld. So wird EKT als „State-of-the-art“-Notfallbehandlung für MK und MNS angesehen, sogar von vielen Autoren als absolute EKT-Indikation. Selten wird zudem als Option bei PHS der EKT-Einsatz reflektiert. Vor dem Hintergrund eines eigenen Falles schlagen wir den intensivmedizinisch Tätigen vor, EKT dann in Betracht zu ziehen, wenn auf ITS eine MH diagnostisch nicht sicher ausgeschlossen werden kann. Dies würde allerdings eine Verfügbarkeit von EKT auf ITS voraussetzen, was de facto so gut wie nie der Fall ist, zumindest nicht in Deutschland. Eine psychiatrische Abteilung befindet sich oft nicht in räumlicher Nähe zu einer ITS und selbst wenn, ist EKT in nicht einmal der Hälfte psychiatrischer Abteilungen apparativ und fachlich möglich.
Bilirubin Down-Regulates Oxidative Stress and Fibroblast Growth
Factor 23 Expression in UMR106 Osteoblast-Like Cells
Authors: Rausch Steffen , Hammerschmidt Katharina , Feger Martina , Vítek Libor , Föller Michael
Published: February 2024

Introduction Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is a major regulator of
phosphate and vitamin D metabolism in the kidney, and its higher levels in
plasma are associated with poorer outcomes in kidney and cardiovascular
diseases. It is produced by bone cells upon enhanced oxidative stress and
inhibits renal phosphate reabsorption and calcitriol (active form of vitamin D)
production. Bilirubin, the final product of the heme catabolic pathway in the
vascular bed, has versatile biological functions, including antioxidant and
anti-inflammatory effects. This study explored whether bilirubin alters FGF23
production.

Methods Experiments were performed using UMR106 osteoblast-like cells.
Fgf23 transcript levels were determined by quantitative real-time
polymerase chain reaction, C-terminal and intact FGF23 protein levels were
determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and cellular oxidative stress
was assessed by CellROX assay.

Results Unconjugated bilirubin down-regulated Fgf23 gene
transcription and FGF23 protein abundance; these effects were paralleled by
lower cellular oxidative stress levels. Also, conjugated bilirubin reduced
Fgf23 mRNA abundance.

Conclusion Bilirubin down-regulates FGF23 production in UMR106 cells, an
effect likely to be dependent on the reduction of cellular oxidative stress.
Schmerzreduktion durch operative Therapie osteoporotischer
Frakturen
Authors: Liener Ulrich Christoph , Bökeler Ulf Wilhelm
Published: February 2024

Osteoporotische Frakturen führen aufgrund erheblicher Schmerzen und der
damit verbundenen Funktionsstörungen zu einer signifikanten
Einschränkung der körperlichen Leistungsfähigkeit. In
den letzten Jahren konnten durch die Entwicklung neuer winkelstabiler
Implantate, durch Zementaugmentation und den Einsatz von Frakturprothesen
signifikante Fortschritte in der Behandlung von osteoporotischen Frakturen
erzielt werden. Nachdem ältere Studien uneinheitliche Resultate
aufwiesen, zeigen aktuelle Untersuchungen eindeutige Ergebnisse zu Gunsten der
operativen Therapie. Im Rahmen eines narrativen Reviews soll die Wirkung der
operativen Therapie auf die Schmerzreduktion und Verbesserung der
Extremitäten dargestellt werden.
The postsurgical pancreas
Authors: Fischbach Roman , Peller Maximilian , Perez Daniel , Pohland Christopher , Gübitz Raphael
Published: February 2024

Background Partial pancreatic resections are among the most complex surgical procedures in visceral tumor medicine and are associated with a high postoperative morbidity with a complication rate of 40–50 % of patients even in specialized centers.

Methods Description of typical surgical resection procedures and the resulting postoperative anatomy, typical normal postoperative findings, common postoperative complications, and radiological findings.

Results and conclusion CT is the most appropriate imaging technique for rapid and standardized visualization of postoperative anatomy and detection of clinically suspected complications after partial pancreatic resections. The most common complications are delayed gastric emptying, pancreatic fistula, acute pancreatitis, bile leakage, abscess, and hemorrhage. Radiologists must identify the typical surgical procedures, the postoperative anatomy, and normal postoperative findings as well as possible postoperative complications and know interventional treatment methods for common complications.

Key points: 

Citation Format
Usability Testing of Situation Awareness Clinical Decision Support in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Molloy Matthew J. , Zackoff Matthew , Gifford Annika , Hagedorn Philip , Tegtmeyer Ken , Britto Maria T. , Dewan Maya
Published: February 2024

Objective Our objective was to evaluate the usability of an automated clinical decision support (CDS) tool previously implemented in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) to promote shared situation awareness among the medical team to prevent serious safety events within children's hospitals.

Methods We conducted a mixed-methods usability evaluation of a CDS tool in a PICU at a large, urban, quaternary, free-standing children's hospital in the Midwest. Quantitative assessment was done using the system usability scale (SUS), while qualitative assessment involved think-aloud usability testing. The SUS was scored according to survey guidelines. For think-aloud testing, task times were calculated, and means and standard deviations were determined, stratified by role. Qualitative feedback from participants and moderator observations were summarized.

Results Fifty-one PICU staff members, including physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, and respiratory therapists, completed the SUS, while ten participants underwent think-aloud usability testing. The overall median usability score was 87.5 (interquartile range: 80–95), with over 96% rating the tool's usability as “good” or “excellent.” Task completion times ranged from 2 to 92 seconds, with the quickest completion for reviewing high-risk criteria and the slowest for adding to high-risk criteria. Observations and participant responses from think-aloud testing highlighted positive aspects of learnability and clear display of complex information that is easily accessed, as well as opportunities for improvement in tool integration into clinical workflows.

Conclusion The PICU Warning Tool demonstrates good usability in the critical care setting. This study demonstrates the value of postimplementation usability testing in identifying opportunities for continued improvement of CDS tools.
Splint for Split Skin Grafted Upper Eyelid
Authors: Gupta Dr. Malti
Published: February 2024

We advocate the use of splint for split skin grafted eyelid—A aplint for this purpose has been described and its beneficial effect in such a case is illustrated.
Some Observation on Vaginal Aplasia
Authors: Khanna N. N. , Khanna Shail , Sharma D.
Published: February 2024

In the presen: paper the authors describe their experiences in vaginal reconstruction by the Mclndoe technique. They advocate a soft mould made of a rubber condom packed with rolled cotton. The advantage claimed are its easy availability, minimal risk of necrosis and comfort in wearing for long pressure periods.
Management of Donor Site of a Transposition Flap
Authors: Tripathi F. M. , Sinha J. K. , Bhattacharya V.
Published: February 2024

Present case veport illustrat=s one of the methods for management of donor site of a transpo ition flap by twa transposition flaps.
A Systematic Review of the Impact of Growth Hormone Therapy on Final Adult Height of Children with Idiopathic Short Stature
Authors: Muammar Tawfik , Alhasaeri Muna
Published: February 2024

Introduction This review aims to systematically determine the effect of growth hormone (GH) therapy on adult height of children and adolescents with idiopathic short stature (ISS).

Methods A systematic review was conducted to assess the effectiveness of GH therapy in children with ISS. Databases like ProQuest Central, journal @ Ovoid, EBSCOhost Medline Complete, Oxford University Press Journals, KB + JISC Collections Elsevier Science Direct Freedo, and BMJ, and cross-referencing of bibliographies were searched electronically. The randomized trials from 1989 to January 2023 were retrieved. Randomized trials with final adult height measurements and fit the inclusion criteria (height >2 standard deviation [SD] score below the mean with no comorbid conditions that would impair growth, peak growth hormone responses >10 μg/L, no previous history of GH therapy) were included in this review. The exclusion criteria are nonrandomized trials; trials include causes of short stature other than ISS, and studies include interventions other than GH and gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog (GnRH-a). A structured approach to the critical appraisal program by Oxford was used to analyze and extract the data.

Results The study reviewed 14 eligible randomized trials, which recruited 2,206 assessable children for analysis. Seven trials compared different GH doses, four trials compared GH therapy with controls, and three trials compared a combination of GH and GnRH therapy with GH alone. Apart from one study, the overall dropout rate was not high. The high percentage of boys was a potential source of heterogeneity between trials. The change in height (HT)-SD score was 1.06 ± 0.30 and 0.18 ± 0.27 with treatment and control children, respectively, and the difference is statistically significant (p < 0.001). The overall mean height gain was 5 cm (0.84 SD score) more in treated children. The height velocity was found to be decreased significantly (p < 0.001) in the second and third years of treatment in the GH + GnRH-a treated group from 7 cm/year during the first year of treatment to 5.4 cm during the second year and 4.9 cm/year during the third year. They also found that using a higher dose of GH at 9 mg/m2/week leads to approximately 7 cm mean final height gain; however, lower dose regimens are less effective.

Conclusion Although the magnitude of the effectiveness of GH therapy is, on average, less than that achieved in other conditions for which GH is licensed, GH therapy seems to be effective in children with idiopathic short stature, and it reduces the deficit in height as adults. Moreover, the effect seems to be dose-dependent, with better results at high GH doses, and the response variability is seen in different individuals. The use of combined GH with GnRH therapy needs to be balanced with their side effects.
On the physical meaning of the geometric factor and the effective thickness in the Montgomery method
Authors: Oliveira F. S. , Alves L. M. S. , da Luz M. S. , Romão E. C. , dos Santos C. A. M.
Published: February 2024

The Montgomery method is extensively employed to determine the electrical resistance tensor of anisotropic samples. This technique relies on two essential parameters describing an isotropic system: the geometric factor (H1) and the effective thickness (E). The numerical values of these parameters are intricately linked to the dimensions of an isotropic block equivalent to the studied anisotropic specimen. While these parameters hold importance, the physical interpretation of these terms still lacks clarity. In this study, we utilized the finite element method to simulate electrical transport experiments across samples of various shapes. Utilizing the Electric Currents physics interface in the COMSOL program, we were able to provide a comprehensive analysis of the physical meaning of these parameters to accurately determine the electrical properties of thin films and wafers. The presented findings related to the physical interpretation of H1 and E terms make substantial contributions to the field of electrical transport experimental techniques, which are fundamental to design advanced materials for technological applications and understand their physical properties.
Rapid changes in synchronizability in conductance-based neuronal networks with conductance-based coupling
Authors: Nicola Wilten
Published: February 2024

Real neurons connect to each other non-randomly. These connectivity graphs can potentially impact the ability of networks to synchronize, along with the dynamics of neurons and the dynamics of their connections. How the connectivity of networks of conductance-based neuron models like the classical Hodgkin–Huxley model or the Morris–Lecar model impacts synchronizability remains unknown. One powerful tool to resolve the synchronizability of these networks is the master stability function (MSF). Here, we apply and extend the MSF approach to networks of Morris–Lecar neurons with conductance-based coupling to determine under which parameters and for which graphs the synchronous solutions are stable. We consider connectivity graphs with a constant non-zero row sum, where the MSF approach can be readily extended to conductance-based synapses rather than the more well-studied diffusive connectivity case, which primarily applies to gap junction connectivity. In this formulation, the synchronous solution is a single, self-coupled, or “autaptic” neuron. We find that the primary determining parameter for the stability of the synchronous solution is, unsurprisingly, the reversal potential, as it largely dictates the excitatory/inhibitory potential of a synaptic connection. However, the change between “excitatory” and “inhibitory” synapses is rapid, with only a few millivolts separating stability and instability of the synchronous state for most graphs. We also find that for specific coupling strengths (as measured by the global synaptic conductance), islands of synchronizability in the MSF can emerge for inhibitory connectivity. We verified the stability of these islands by direct simulation of pairs of neurons coupled with eigenvalues in the matching spectrum.
Drastic enhancement of stable and fast domain wall motion in GdFe nanowires through laser-annealing treatment at wire edges
Authors: Mohammadi Mojtaba , Miyose Yamato , Sumi Satoshi , Tanabe Kenji , Awano Hiroyuki
Published: February 2024

One of the key challenges in racetrack memory (RM) technology is achieving stable and high velocities for domain walls (DWs) while maintaining low power consumption. In our study, we propose a novel laser-annealing (LA) process to modify wire edges for a smoother DW movement along the nanowire. In this regard, a film stack of Pt (5 nm)/Gd26Fe74(20 nm)/SiN(10 nm) was deposited by magnetron sputtering. The DW velocity in the wire was measured by applying single voltage pulses and then observing the DW motion using a Kerr microscope. The current-induced domain walls motion measurements have shown that the LA process significantly enhances the velocity of DW motion. The LA of both edges of the nanowire results in a threefold increase in DW velocity compared to non-LA conditions. Further experiments illustrated that the DW velocity remains stable for the laser-annealed condition across a wide range of applied currents, spanning from 3 × 1011 to 7 × 1011 A/m2. Additionally, our investigation into the magnetic characteristics of laser-annealed nanowire regions exhibited a notable reduction of Hc at the laser-annealed edges. This decrease in Hc indicates greater ease in manipulating the material’s magnetization, which is essential for efficient DW motion. Furthermore, we explored the influence of LA on the Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya Interaction (DMI) field. The DMI finding underscores the strong correlation between DMI fields and DW speed. This achievement, i.e. the stability and consistency of the domain’s velocity (as the components of an RM) in a wide range of applied current, is significant progress in the field of operation and industrialization of RM.
Generation of highly anisotropic physical properties in ferromagnetic thin films controlled by their differently oriented nano-sheets
Authors: Favieres C. , Vergara J. , Magén C. , Ibarra M. R. , Madurga V.
Published: February 2024

We fabricated ferromagnetic nano-crystalline thin films of Co, Fe, Co–Fe and Co-rich and Fe-rich, Co–MT and Fe–MT (MT = transition metal), constituted by nano-sheets with a controlled slant. Visualization of these nano-sheets by Scanning Tunneling Microscopy and High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) showed typically tilt angles ≈56° with respect to the substrate plane, and nano-sheets ≈3.0–4.0 nm thick, ≈30–100 nm wide, and ≈200–300 nm long, with an inter-sheet distance of ≈0.9–1.2 nm, depending on their constitutive elements. Induced by this nano-morphology, these films exhibited large uniaxial magnetic anisotropy in the plane, the easy direction of magnetization being parallel to the longitudinal direction of the nano-sheets. In the as-grown films, typical values of the anisotropy field were between Hk ≈ 48 and 110 kA/m depending on composition. The changes in the nano-morphology caused by thermal treatments, and hence in the anisotropic properties, were also visualized by HRTEM, including chemical analysis at the nano-scale. Some films retained their nano-sheet morphology and increased their anisotropies by up to three times after being heated to at least 500 °C: for example, the thermal treatments produced crystallization processes and the growth of CoV and CoFe magnetic phases, maintaining the nano-sheet morphology. In contrast, other annealed films, Co, Fe, CoZn, CoCu… lost their nano-sheet morphology and hence their anisotropies. This work opens a path of study for these new magnetically anisotropic materials, particularly with respect to the nano-morphological and structural changes related to the increase in magnetic anisotropy.
Comparative chemical genomics in
Babesia
species identifies the alkaline phosphatase PhoD as a determinant of antiparasitic resistance
Authors: Keroack Caroline D. , Elsworth Brendan , Tennessen Jacob A. , Paul Aditya S. , Hua Renee , Ramirez-Ramirez Luz , Ye Sida , Moreira Cristina K. , Meyers Marvin J. , Zarringhalam Kourosh , Duraisingh Manoj T.
Published: February 2024

Babesiosis
is an emerging zoonosis and widely distributed veterinary infection caused by 100+ species of
Babesia
parasites. The diversity of
Babesia
parasites and the lack of specific drugs necessitate the discovery of broadly effective antibabesials. Here, we describe a comparative chemogenomics (CCG) pipeline for the identification of conserved targets. CCG relies on parallel in vitro evolution of resistance in independent populations of
Babesia
spp. (
B. bovis
and
B. divergens
). We identified a potent antibabesial, MMV019266, from the Malaria Box, and selected for resistance in two species of
Babesia
. After sequencing of multiple independently derived lines in the two species, we identified mutations in a membrane-bound metallodependent phosphatase (
phoD
). In both species, the mutations were found in the phoD-like phosphatase domain. Using reverse genetics, we validated that mutations in
bdphoD
confer resistance to MMV019266 in
B. divergens
. We have also demonstrated that BdPhoD localizes to the endomembrane system and partially with the apicoplast. Finally, conditional knockdown and constitutive overexpression of BdPhoD alter the sensitivity to MMV019266 in the parasite. Overexpression of BdPhoD results in increased sensitivity to the compound, while knockdown increases resistance, suggesting BdPhoD is a pro-susceptibility factor. Together, we have generated a robust pipeline for identification of resistance loci and identified BdPhoD as a resistance mechanism in
Babesia
species.
Centimeter-sized diamond composites with high electrical conductivity and hardness
Authors: Yang Xigui , Zang Jinhao , Zhao Xingju , Ren Xiaoyan , Ma Shuailing , Zhang Zhuangfei , Zhang Yuewen , Li Xing , Cheng Shaobo , Li Shunfang , Liu Bingbing , Shan Chongxin
Published: February 2024

Achieving high-performance materials with superior mechanical properties and electrical conductivity, especially in large-sized bulk forms, has always been the goal. However, it remains a grand challenge due to the inherent trade-off between these properties. Herein, by employing nanodiamonds as precursors, centimeter-sized diamond/graphene composites were synthesized under moderate pressure and temperature conditions (12 GPa and 1,300 to 1,500 °C), and the composites consisted of ultrafine diamond grains and few-layer graphene domains interconnected through covalently bonded interfaces. The composites exhibit a remarkable electrical conductivity of 2.0 × 10
4
S m
−1
at room temperature, a Vickers hardness of up to ~55.8 GPa, and a toughness of 10.8 to 19.8 MPa m
1/2
. Theoretical calculations indicate that the transformation energy barrier for the graphitization of diamond surface is lower than that for diamond growth directly from conventional

sp
2

carbon materials, allowing the synthesis of such diamond composites under mild conditions. The above results pave the way for realizing large-sized diamond-based materials with ultrahigh electrical conductivity and superior mechanical properties simultaneously under moderate synthesis conditions, which will facilitate their large-scale applications in a variety of fields.
Dynamic defects boost in-situ H
2
O
2
piezocatalysis for water cleanup
Authors: Ran Maoxi , Du Bibai , Liu Wenyuan , Liang Zhiyan , Liang Lihong , Zhang Yayun , Zeng Lixi , Xing Mingyang
Published: February 2024

Creating efficient catalysts for simultaneous H
2
O
2
generation and pollutant degradation is vital. Piezocatalytic H
2
O
2
synthesis offers a promising alternative to traditional methods but faces challenges like sacrificial reagents, harsh conditions, and low activity. In this study, we introduce a cobalt-loaded ZnO (CZO) piezocatalyst that efficiently generates H
2
O
2
from H
2
O and O
2
under ultrasonic (US) treatment in ambient aqueous conditions. The catalyst demonstrates exceptional performance with ~50.9% TOC removal of phenol and in situ generation of 1.3 mM H
2
O
2
, significantly outperforming pure ZnO. Notably, the CZO piezocatalyst maintains its H
2
O
2
generation capability even after multiple cycles, showing continuous improvement (from 1.3 mM to 1.8 mM). This is attributed to the piezoelectric electrons promoting the generation of dynamic defects under US conditions, which in turn promotes the adsorption and activation of oxygen, thereby facilitating efficient H
2
O
2
production, as confirmed by EPR spectrometry, XPS analysis, and DFT calculations. Moreover, the CZO piezocatalysts maintain outstanding performance in pollutant degradation and H
2
O
2
production even after long periods of inactivity, and the deactivated catalyst due to metal ion dissolution could be rejuvenated by pH adjustment, offering a sustainable solution for wastewater purification.