bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of children with prolonged mechanical ventilation in PICUs in mainland China: A national survey
Authors: Zhang Zhengzheng , Tao Jinhao , Cai Xiaodi , Huang Li , Liu Chengjun , Ren Hong , Qu Dong , Gao Hengmiao , Cheng Yibing , Zhang Furong , Yang Zihao , Xu Wei , Miao Hongjun , Liu Pan , Liu Yuxin , Lu Guoping , Chen Weiming
Published: January 2023

Objective

The number of children on prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) in pediatric intensive care units (PICU) has increased markedly, but little is known about the situation in mainland China. We carried out a multicenter retrospective investigation to describe the clinical characteristics and prognosis of Chinese children receiving long‐term ventilation in the PICU.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed in 11 PICUs. All participating patients with prolonged mechanical ventilation in the study were retrospectively identified and included from cases admitted to PICUs between January 1, 2017 and December 31, 2019.

Results

A total of 346 children diagnosed with prolonged mechanical ventilation were included in the study. Overall, 240 survived and were discharged from PICU, 55 died in hospital, and 51 withdrew from mechanical ventilation support with 41 died after discharge. Lower airway diseases were the most common underlying causes (41.6%), followed by central nervous system diseases (29.5%), and neuromuscular diseases (13.3%). Most children (327, 94.5%) received invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) and only 19 (5.5%) children received noninvasive ventilation (NIV). The median time of tracheostomy after ventilation was 21 days (15–35). Children with tracheostomy had lower mortality with longer PICU stay compared with patients without tracheostomy. Children who underwent tracheostomy were more likely to have central nervous system diseases and neuromuscular diseases.

Conclusion

This study showed a steady increase in the number of children receiving prolonged mechanical ventilation during the study period in Chinese PICUs with distinct clinical characteristics and outcomes. A better community‐based care for PMV children is needed in mainland China.
Design of a protease‐activated PD‐L1 inhibitor
Authors: Goudy Odessa J. , Peng Alice , Tripathy Ashutosh , Kuhlman Brian
Published: January 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors that bind to the cell surface receptor PD‐L1 are effective anti‐cancer agents but suffer from immune‐related adverse events as PD‐L1 is expressed on both healthy and cancer cells. To mitigate toxicity, researchers are testing prodrugs that have low affinity for checkpoint targets until activated with proteases enriched in the tumor microenvironment. Here, we engineer a prodrug form of a PD‐L1 inhibitor. The inhibitor is a soluble PD‐1 mimetic that was previously engineered to have high affinity for PD‐L1. In the basal state, the binding surface of the PD‐1 mimetic is masked by fusing it to a soluble variant of its natural ligand, PD‐L1. Proteolytic cleavage of the linker that connects the mask to the inhibitor activates the molecule. To optimize the mask so that it effectively blocks binding to PD‐L1 but releases upon cleavage, we tested a set of mutants with varied affinity for the inhibitor. The top‐performing mask reduces the affinity of the prodrug for PD‐L1 120‐fold, and binding is nearly fully recovered upon cleavage. In a cell‐based assay measuring inhibition of the PD‐1:PD‐L1 interaction on the surface of cells, the IC50s of the masked inhibitors were up to 40‐fold higher than their protease‐treated counterparts. The changes in activity we observe upon protease treatment are comparable to systems currently tested in the clinic and provide evidence that natural binding partners are an excellent starting point for creating a prodrug.
Iodine‐Functionalized Magnetic Reduced Graphene Oxide as an Efficient Nanocatalyst for Acetylation of Phenol, Alcohol, and Sugar Derivatives
Authors: Toorchi Roudsari Saeedeh , Sadjadi Sodeh
Published: January 2023

Here in this study, a new iodine‐modified magnetic nanocomposite (I@rGO@CoFe2O4) has been described. FT‐IR, XRD, SEM, TEM, EDX, TGA, and VSM techniques confirm the construction of I@rGO@CoFe2O4 nanocomposite and show ferromagnetic properties with a significant magnetization saturation (35.9 emu g−1). A deep eutectic solvent (DES) potassium triiodide‐choline chloride (KI3 : ChCl) has been used as a reducing agent and for modification of magnetic graphene oxide sheets. In addition, the applicability of the nanocomposite has been well demonstrated for acetylation of some phenol, alcohol, and sugar derivatives in solvent‐free conditions at room temperature. Increasing catalytic activity, high selectivity, reducing environmental hazards, and reusing the catalyst without significantly reducing activity are among the advantages of this method.
Judging foreign startups
Authors: Wright Nataliya Langburd , Koning Rembrand , Khanna Tarun
Published: January 2023

Research Summary

Can accelerators pick the most promising startup ideas no matter their provenance? Using unique data from a global accelerator where judges are randomly assigned to evaluate startups headquartered across the globe, we show that judges are less likely to recommend startups headquartered outside their home region by 4 percentage points. Back‐of‐the‐envelope calculations suggest this discount leads judges to pass over 1 in 20 promising startups. Despite this systematic discount, we find that—in contrast to many past studies—judges can discern startup quality and are no better at evaluating local firms. These differences emerge because the pool of startups accelerator judges evaluate is both broader and less “local,” suggesting that judging ability depends on the composition of the companies they are tasked with evaluating.

Managerial Summary

Accelerators often seek the most promising startup ideas. Yet, they can only do so if their judges can discern the quality of startups, both local and foreign to them, without systematic bias. We used unique data from a global accelerator where judges are assigned to evaluate startups headquartered across the globe and find that, while judges can detect the quality of both local and foreign startups, they discount startups foreign to them, hindering their ability to accept the best startup ideas. As venture capitalists increasingly source startups from accelerators, this foreign discounting can result in investors passing over promising ideas. However, simple measures like reducing the threshold for startups evaluated by foreign judges may help reduce judges' foreign discounting and enable picking the best companies.
Electromyogram‐Based Lip‐Reading via Unobtrusive Dry Electrodes and Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Dong Penghao , Song Yuanqing , Yu Shangyouqiao , Zhang Zimeng , Mallipattu Sandeep K. , Djurić Petar M. , Yao Shanshan
Published: January 2023

Lip‐reading provides an effective speech communication interface for people with voice disorders and for intuitive human–machine interactions. Existing systems are generally challenged by bulkiness, obtrusiveness, and poor robustness against environmental interferences. The lack of a truly natural and unobtrusive system for converting lip movements to speech precludes the continuous use and wide‐scale deployment of such devices. Here, the design of a hardware–software architecture to capture, analyze, and interpret lip movements associated with either normal or silent speech is presented. The system can recognize different and similar visemes. It is robust in a noisy or dark environment. Self‐adhesive, skin‐conformable, and semi‐transparent dry electrodes are developed to track high‐fidelity speech‐relevant electromyogram signals without impeding daily activities. The resulting skin‐like sensors can form seamless contact with the curvilinear and dynamic surfaces of the skin, which is crucial for a high signal‐to‐noise ratio and minimal interference. Machine learning algorithms are employed to decode electromyogram signals and convert them to spoken words. Finally, the applications of the developed lip‐reading system in augmented reality and medical service are demonstrated, which illustrate the great potential in immersive interaction and healthcare applications.
1D and 2D Field Effect Transistors in Gas Sensing: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Paghi Alessandro , Mariani Stefano , Barillaro Giuseppe
Published: January 2023

Rapid progress in the synthesis and fundamental understanding of 1D and 2D materials have solicited the incorporation of these nanomaterials into sensor architectures, especially field effect transistors (FETs), for the monitoring of gas and vapor in environmental, food quality, and healthcare applications. Yet, several challenges have remained unaddressed toward the fabrication of 1D and 2D FET gas sensors for real‐field applications, which are related to properties, synthesis, and integration of 1D and 2D materials into the transistor architecture. This review paper encompasses the whole assortment of 1D—i.e., metal oxide semiconductors (MOXs), silicon nanowires (SiNWs), carbon nanotubes (CNTs)—and 2D—i.e., graphene, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMD), phosphorene—materials used in FET gas sensors, critically dissecting how the material synthesis, surface functionalization, and transistor fabrication impact on electrical versus sensing properties of these devices. Eventually, pros and cons of 1D and 2D FETs for gas and vapor sensing applications are discussed, pointing out weakness and highlighting future directions.
Kinetic Barrier Diagrams to Visualize and Engineer Molecular Nonequilibrium Systems
Authors: Penocchio Emanuele , Ragazzon Giulio
Published: January 2023

Molecular nonequilibrium systems hold great promises for the nanotechnology of the future. Yet, their development is slowed by the absence of an informative representation. Indeed, while potential energy surfaces comprise in principle all the information, they hide the dynamic interplay of multiple reaction pathways underlying nonequilibrium systems, i.e., the degree of kinetic asymmetry. To offer an insightful visual representation of kinetic asymmetry, we extended an approach pertaining to catalytic networks, the energy span model, by focusing on system dynamics – rather than thermodynamics. Our approach encompasses both chemically and photochemically driven systems, ranging from unimolecular motors to simple self‐assembly schemes. The obtained diagrams give immediate access to information needed to guide experiments, such as states’ population, rate of machine operation, maximum work output, and effects of design changes. The proposed kinetic barrier diagrams offer a unifying graphical tool for disparate nonequilibrium phenomena.
Host–Guest Self‐Assembled Interfacial Nanoarrays for Precise Metabolic Profiling
Authors: Wang Yuning , Liu Yu , Yang Shouzhi , Yi Jia , Xu Xiaoyu , Zhang Kun , Liu Baohong , Qian Kun
Published: January 2023

Accurate and rapid metabolic profiling of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is urgently needed but remains challenging for clinical diagnosis of central nervous system diseases and biomarker discovery. Matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI‐MS) holds promise for metabolic analysis. Its low signal reproducibility, however, severely restricts acquisition of quantitative MS data in clinical practice. Herein, a multifunctional self‐assembled AuNPs array (MSANA)‐based LDI‐MS platform for direct amino acids analysis and metabolic profiling in patient CSF samples is developed. MSANA featuring a highly ordered and closely packed two‐dimensional nanostructure permits capture and direct analysis of aromatic amino acids by LDI‐MS with high selectivity and micromolar sensitivity. Meanwhile, the MSANA‐based LDI‐MS platform exhibits excellent reproducibility (RSD < 10%), largely outperforming the direct matrix spotting approach widely used now (RSD < 44%). The platform is successfully used in metabolic profiling of CSF (1 µL) within minutes for discrimination of medulloblastoma patients from non‐tumor controls. Taken together, the MSANA‐based LDI‐MS platform shows potential clinical values toward large‐scale metabolic diagnostics and pathogenic mechanism study.
Confined Tri‐Functional FeOx@MnO2@SiO2 Flask Micromotors for Long‐Lasting Motion and Catalytic Reactions
Authors: Yang Yangyang , Shi Lei , Lin Jingkai , Zhang Panpan , Hu Kunsheng , Meng Shuang , Zhou Peng , Duan Xiaoguang , Sun Hongqi , Wang Shaobin
Published: January 2023

H2O2‐fueled micromotors are state‐of‐the‐art mobile microreactors in environmental remediation. In this work, a magnetic FeOx@MnO2@SiO2 micromotor with multi‐functions is designed and demonstrated its catalytic performance in H2O2/peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation for simultaneously sustained motion and organic degradation. Moreover, this work reveals the correlations between catalytic efficiency and motion behavior/mechanism. The inner magnetic FeOx nanoellipsoids primarily trigger radical species (•OH and O2•−) to attack organics via Fenton‐like reactions. The coated MnO2 layers on FeOx surface are responsible for decomposing H2O2 into O2 bubbles to provide a propelling torque in the solution and generating SO4•− and •OH for organic degradation. The outer SiO2 microcapsules with a hollow head and tail result in an asymmetrical Janus structure for the motion, driven by O2 bubbles ejecting from the inner cavity via the opening tail. Intriguingly, PMS adjusts the local environment to control over‐violent O2 formation from H2O2 decomposition by occupying the Mn sites via inter‐sphere interactions and enhances organic removal due to the strengthened contacts and Fenton‐like reactions between inner FeOx and peroxides within the microreactor. The findings will advance the design of functional micromotors and the knowledge of micromotor‐based remediation with controlled motion and high‐efficiency oxidation using multiple peroxides.
Highly conductive fiber with design of dual conductive Ag/CB layers for ultrasensitive and wide‐range strain sensing
Authors: Niu Ben , Yang Su , Yang Yiyi , Hua Tao
Published: January 2023

Recently the ever‐increasing demand for wearable electronics has greatly triggered the development of flexible strain sensors. However, it is still challenging to simultaneously achieve high sensitivity, wide working range, and good wearability. Herein, we developed a highly stretchable fiber strain sensor based on wet‐spun porous polyurethane (PU) fiber, and especially a unique conductive network of dual silver (Ag)/carbon black (CB) layers is constructed. Under strain, the rapid crack propagation on the brittle Ag layer brings a large resistance change and thus high sensitivity, while the tunneling‐effect dominated CB layer bridges the separated Ag islands to maintain the integrity of conductive pathways under large strain. By means of the synergistic effect of Ag/CB layers, this composite fiber of Ag/CB@PU presents not only high conductivity of 5139.9 S/m, but also ultrahigh sensitivity with a gauge factor of 2.52 × 106 and a wide working range of up to 200%. Besides that, it is also capable of detecting very tiny strain of 0.1% and working stably for over 8000 cycles. Using mature weaving technology, this fiber strain sensor can be seamlessly integrated into the textile to conformally track different movements of the human body. Together with the facile all‐solution‐based fabrication protocol, this work proposed a new strategy to prepare high‐performance fiber strain sensor, promising the textile‐based wearable applications.
All‐in‐One Compression and Encryption Engine Based on Flexible Polyimide Memristor
Authors: Wang Rui , Wang Saisai , Xin Yuhan , Cao Yaxiong , Liang Yu , Peng Yaqian , Feng Jie , Li Yang , Lv Ling , Ma Xiaohua , Wang Hong , Hao Yue
Published: January 2023

It is anticipated that the rapid development of the Internet of Things (IoT) will improve the quality of human life. Nonetheless, large amounts of data need to be replicated, stored, processed, and shared, posing formidable challenges to communication bandwidth and information security. Herein, it is reported that polyimide (PI) threshold‐switching memristors exhibit Gaussian conductance and randomly set voltage distribution with nonideal properties to create a compression and encryption engine with a single chip. The Gaussian conductance distribution is used to achieve compressed sensing (CS) to integrate encryption into compression, and the spontaneous formation of the one‐time‐sampling measurement matrix satisfies absolute security. Moreover, the bitstreams generated by randomly distributed set voltages are used to diffuse the ciphertext from CS to improve security. The engine is shown to be secure even if the eavesdropper knows both the plaintext and the corresponding ciphertext. It has compression performance advantages that take both efficiency and security into account. In addition, due to the superior high temperature and mechanical properties of PI, the engine can continue to function normally in harsh environments. Herein, an excellent solution is offered for ensuring the efficiency and security of IoT.
Green Chemistry: Advanced Electrocatalysts and System Design for Ammonia Oxidation
Authors: Tian Yunrui , Mao Zixian , Wang Liqun , Liang Ji
Published: January 2023

The hazards associated with handling hydrogen fuels have driven people to consider alternative clean and sustainable fuel types. Ammonia shows significant potential for this task as both a direct fuel and hydrogen carrier due to its unique features of facile transportation and low cost. Regarding this, electrochemical ammonia oxidation reaction (AOR) is the essential process for utilizing ammonia for energy applications, either for hydrogen production via ammonia splitting or energy generation via direct ammonia fuel cells, which is highly commercially promising. On this basis, the development of high‐performance and economic electrocatalysts for AOR is critical. In this review, the kinetics and mechanism of ammonia electrooxidation are first discussed to provide a foundation to understand the current issues associated with this technology, and then a comprehensive presentation on the different types of electrocatalysts for AOR is illustrated. Afterward, an outlook is presented and the possible research directions for AOR electrocatalysis are proposed, which is expected to shed light on the future development of this promising technology.
A Low‐Concentration and High Ionic Conductivity Aqueous Electrolyte toward Ultralow‐Temperature Zinc‐Ion Hybrid Capacitors
Authors: Sun Yinglun , Liu Bao , Liu Lingyang , Lang Junwei , Qiu Jianfeng
Published: January 2023

Aqueous electrochemical energy storage devices have attracted tremendous attention because of its high safety, low cost, and environmental friendliness. However, their low‐temperature operation is plagued by the freeze of electrolytes. Herein, a 3 mol kg−1 Zn(ClO4)2 electrolyte without adding any organic solvents or antifreezing additives is proposed, which yields a high ionic conductivity of 9.4 mS cm−1 even at ultralow temperatures of −60 °C. The strong electrostatic interaction between Zn2+ ion and water molecules and the structure breaking effect of ClO4− ions to destroy the hydrogen bond network between water molecules in Zn(ClO4)2 electrolyte is revealed by spectroscopic characterization and theoretical simulation. This low‐temperature electrolyte renders the zinc‐ion hybrid capacitor to exhibit a high energy density of 40.91 Wh kg−1 at −60 °C and a long‐cycle life (over 200 days) at −30 °C. This study provides a new path to develop low‐concentration antifreezing electrolytes for aqueous electrochemical energy storage devices.
Fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion for congenital diaphragmatic hernia: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Chen Y. , Xu R. , Xie X. , Wang T. , Yang Z. , Chen J.
Published: January 2023

Objective

It is debated whether fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO) is beneficial to fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and whether FETO has different effects in moderate and severe CDH. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis including the latest evidence to assess the overall effects of FETO on clinical outcomes of CDH.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, The Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal Database and Wanfang Database to retrieve eligible studies published before 8 September 2022. No language or study design restrictions were applied. Studies were included if CDH fetuses underwent FETO surgery and were compared with a cohort that underwent expectant management, with at least one outcome reported. The primary outcomes were mortality at 1, 6 and 12 months after birth, rates of pulmonary hypertension, use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and prematurity. Meta‐analysis was conducted to obtain pooled odds ratios (ORs) and mean differences. The quality of included studies and pooled evidence was also assessed.

Results

A total of 1187 CDH fetuses from 20 studies were included in the quantitative synthesis. FETO significantly reduced 1‐month (OR, 0.56 (95% CI, 0.34–0.93); P = 0.02, number needed to treat (NNT) = 7.67) and 6‐month (OR, 0.34 (95% CI, 0.18–0.65); P = 0.0009, NNT = 5.26) CDH mortality (moderate/low quality of evidence). Subgroup analysis suggested that the effects of FETO on the rates of pulmonary hypertension and ECMO usage were significant in severe CDH (low/moderate quality of evidence) but not in moderate CDH (low/very low quality of evidence). FETO was also associated with an increased risk of preterm prelabor rupture of membranes before 37 weeks' gestation (OR, 4.94 (95% CI, 2.25–10.88); P < 0.0001, number needed to harm (NNH) = 3.13) and preterm birth before 37 weeks (OR, 5.24 (95% CI, 3.33–8.23); P < 0.00001, NNH = 2.79) (high/moderate quality of evidence). However, FETO was not associated with severe complications, such as preterm birth before 32 weeks, placental abruption or chorioamnionitis (very low/low quality of evidence).

Conclusions

FETO is associated with a reduction in mortality, rate of pulmonary hypertension and ECMO usage in severe CDH, while it reduces only the risk of mortality in moderate CDH. Although FETO increases the risk of late prematurity, it does not result in extreme prematurity. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Improvement of polyvinyl alcohol/casein blend film properties by adding cellulose nanocrystals
Authors: Sahin Duygu , Aksoy (Golshaei) Pelin (Parisa) , Ucpinar Durmaz Bedriye , Aytac Ayse
Published: January 2023

This study aims to prepare and examine the properties of poly(vinyl alcohol)/casein (PVA/CAS) based films reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals (NC), which can be presented as an alternative to petroleum‐based polymer packaging materials. PVA/CAS and 0.5–1–3–5 wt% NC containing PVA/CAS biocomposite films were prepared by solution casting method. Afterward, the 1NC film, which exhibited the best mechanical properties, was crosslinked with various amounts of glyoxal. Structural, morphological (polarized optical microscope), mechanical (tensile), thermal (differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis), contact angle, and water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) properties of the samples were investigated. The 1NC film exhibited the highest tensile strength (TS) and elongation values in PVA/CAS/NC films, and its mechanical properties decreased due to agglomeration with increasing NC amount. As expected, crosslinking improved the TS. The thermal stability of the PVA/CAS film was generally improved with the addition of NC and crosslinking. The high WVTR value of the PVA/CAS film decreased with the addition of NC and the 1NC film presented the lowest value. Thanks to the complex structure formed as a result of crosslinking and the reduced free volume, the WVTR of the 1NC film has reduced. The results showed that PVA/CAS‐based films with good mechanical properties and water vapor barrier are promising as packaging materials.
Celestial recursion
Authors: Hu Yangrui , Pasterski Sabrina
Published: January 2023

Abstract

We examine the BCFW recursion relations for celestial amplitudes and how they inform the celestial bootstrap program. We start by recasting the celestial incarnation of the BCFW shift as a generalization of the action of familiar asymptotic symmetries on hard particles, before focusing on two limits: z → ∞ and z → 0. We then discuss how the celestial CFT data encodes the large-z behavior determining which shifts are allowed, while the infinitesimal limit is tied to the celestial bootstrap program via the BG equations that constrain the MHV sector. The extension to super-BCFW is also presented. We close by remarking on several open questions for future study.
Synthetic fuzzballs: a linear ramp from black hole normal modes
Authors: Das Suman , Krishnan Chethan , Kumar A. Preetham , Kundu Arnab
Published: January 2023

Abstract

We consider a black hole with a stretched horizon as a toy model for a fuzzball microstate. The stretched horizon provides a cut-off, and therefore one can determine the normal (as opposed to quasi-normal) modes of a probe scalar in this geometry. For the BTZ black hole, we compute these as a function of the level n and the angular quantum number J. Conventional level repulsion is absent in this system, and yet we find that the Spectral Form Factor (SFF) shows clear evidence for a dip-ramp-plateau structure with a linear ramp of slope ~ 1 on a log-log plot, with or without ensemble averaging. We show that this is a robust feature of stretched horizons by repeating our calculations on the Rindler wedge (times a compact space). We also observe that this is not a generic feature of integrable systems, as illustrated by standard examples like integrable billiards and random 2-site coupled SYK model, among others. The origins of the ramp can be traced to the hierarchically weaker dependence of the normal mode spectrum on the quantum numbers of the compact directions, and the resulting quasi-degeneracy. We conclude by noting an analogy between the 4-site coupled SYK model and the quartic coupling responsible for the non-linear instability of capped geometries. Based on this, we speculate that incorporating probe self-interactions will lead to stronger connections to random matrix behavior.
Complexity equals anything II
Authors: Belin Alexandre , Myers Robert C. , Ruan Shan-Ming , Sárosi Gábor , Speranza Antony J.
Published: January 2023

Abstract

We expand on our results in [1] to present a broad new class of gravitational observables in asymptotically Anti-de Sitter space living on general codimension-zero regions of the bulk spacetime. By taking distinct limits, these observables can reduce to well-studied holographic complexity proposals, e.g., the volume of the maximal slice and the action or spacetime volume of the Wheeler-DeWitt patch. As with the codimension-one family found in [1], these new observables display two key universal features for the thermofield double state: they grow linearly in time at late times and reproduce the switchback effect. Hence we argue that any member of this new class of observables is an equally viable candidate as a gravitational dual of complexity. Moreover, using the Peierls construction, we show that variations of the codimension-zero and codimension-one observables are encoded in the gravitational symplectic form on the semi-classical phase-space, which can then be mapped to the CFT.
Controlling factors of phytoplankton distribution in the river–lake transition zone of a large lake
Authors: Cotte Gabriel , Soulignac Frédéric , dos Santos Correia Fabio , Fallet Matthieu , Ibelings Bastiaan Willem , Barry David Andrew , Vennemann Torsten W.
Published: January 2023

River–lake transition zones have been identified as major drivers of phytoplankton growth. With climate change reducing the frequency of complete lake overturns, it is expected that the Rhône River, the main tributary to Lake Geneva (France/Switzerland), will become the major source of nutrients for the lake euphotic zone. The river–lake transition zone was hence examined at the mouth of the Rhône River with the aim of understanding the complexities and controls of phytoplankton distribution in this specific deltaic ecosystem. Two field campaigns were carried out in which water samples were collected from longitudinal and transversal transects across the transition zone. These samples were analyzed for both nutrient and phytoplankton concentrations, while the fraction of Rhône River water in a lake sample was determined by the stable isotope composition of the water. The results indicate contributions in P and Si related to the Rhône intrusion into the lake. Furthermore, this river–lake transition zone appears to be a dynamic area that can locally present optimal conditions for phytoplankton growth. In early spring, a wind event broke the early and weak stratification of the lake, forcing the Rhône River and its turbidity plume to intrude deeper. Thus, this sharp drop of the turbidity within the euphotic zone allowed an increase in the phytoplankton biovolume of 44%. In early fall, outside of the turbid near field of the river mouth, the Rhône interflow, located just below the thermocline, promoted a local deep chlorophyll maximum.
Petrogenesis of thick, high-grade PGE mineralisation in the Flatreef, northern Bushveld Complex
Authors: Maier Wolfgang D. , Barnes Stephen J. , Godel Belinda M. , Grobler Danie , Smith William D.
Published: January 2023

The Flatreef of the northern limb of the Bushveld Complex is a world-class platinum-group element (PGE) deposit representing the down-dip extension of the Platreef. Exploration drilling in the central portion of the project area intersected a particularly thick PGE-mineralised portion of the Flatreef exposed in drill core TMT006 and its two deflections, containing 4.5 ppm PGE (Pt + Pd + Rh + Au) over 90 m and ~ 3.7 ppm PGE over 150 m. Data obtained using whole rock geochemical analysis, field emission scanning electron microscopy, micro X-ray fluorescence and X-ray computed tomography indicate that the PGE are hosted by, or are spatially closely associated with, disseminated sulfides that occur interstitial to the cumulus silicate minerals. PGE grades show a broad, albeit irregular trend of progressive downward decrease, whereas most metal ratios (Cu/Ni, Pt/Rh, Cu/Pd and, to a lesser degree, Pt/Pd) remain broadly constant throughout the 90 m main ore zone. These features are interpreted to reflect two stages of ore formation: (i) hydrodynamic concentration of sulfidic ultramafic crystal mushes and (ii) localised downward percolation of sulfide melt in response to fluidisation of the cumulate mush caused by infiltration of ascending magmatic or crustal fluids. The model is consistent with the close spatial association of the sulfides with interstitial plagioclase as well as accessory phlogopite, quartz, apatite and rutile, whereas cumulus orthopyroxene is largely free of sulfide.
Experimental investigation of mechanical properties and energy absorption capabilities of hybrid lattice structures manufactured using fused filament fabrication
Authors: Syrlybayev Daniyar , Perveen Asma , Talamona Didier
Published: January 2023

Hybrid lattice structures are composed of several dissimilar unit cells arranged in specific patterns. Unlike their one-phase counterparts, hybrid lattices remain relatively unexplored. In this work, novel hybrid lattice structures composed of Pillar Octahedral (PO) and Rhombic Dodecahedron (RD) lattices having variable strut diameters are arranged in different orders to form hybrid vertical piles (HVP), 2D and 3D chessboard order (HCh2D and HCh3D), are proposed, and their mechanical properties, energy absorption characteristics, and deformation modes are investigated under quasistatic compression. The empirical results indicated that the mechanical properties of hybrid lattice structures are the average of those of their parent lattices. HVP lattice structure has a high yield stress of 1.2, 2.22, and 3.54 MPa when strut diameter is 1.5, 1.75, and 2 mm respectively, and stable post-buckling region. It was also observed that hybrid lattice structures are more efficient in absorbing the energy of the deformation. When strut diameter is 1.5 mm, PO lattice structure has an efficiency of 50%, while HVP, HCh2D, and HCh3D lattices have an efficiency of about 70–80%. Finally, Gibson-Ashby models were proposed to predict the mechanical properties of lattice structures as the function of relative density.
Risk factor structure of heart failure in patients with cancer after treatment with anticancer agents’ assessment by big data from a Japanese electronic health record
Authors: Nohara Shoichiro , Ishii Kazuo , Shibata Tatsuhiro , Obara Hitoshi , Miyamoto Takanobu , Ueno Takafumi , Kakuma Tatsuyuki , Fukumoto Yoshihiro
Published: January 2023

As the prognosis of cancer patients has been improved, comorbidity of heart failure (HF) in cancer survivors is a serious concern, especially in the aged population. This study aimed to examine the risk factors of HF development after treatment by anticancer agents, using a machine learning-based analysis of a massive dataset obtained from the electronic health record (EHR) in Japan. This retrospective, cohort study, using a dataset from 2008 to 2017 in the Diagnosis Procedure Combination (DPC) database in Japan, enrolled 140,327 patients. The structure of risk factors was determined using multivariable analysis and classification and regression tree (CART) algorithm for time-to-event data. The mean follow-up period was 1.55 years. The prevalence of HF after anticancer agent administration were 4.0%. HF was more prevalent in the older than the younger. As the presence of cardiovascular diseases and various risk factors predicted HF, CART analysis of the risk factors revealed that the risk factor structures complicatedly differed among different age groups. The highest risk combination was hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and atrial fibrillation in the group aged  ≤ 64 years, and the presence of ischemic heart disease was a key in both groups aged 65–74 years and 75 ≤ years. The machine learning-based approach was able to develop complicated HF risk structures in cancer patients after anticancer agents in different age population, of which knowledge would be essential for realizing precision medicine to improve the prognosis of cancer patients.
A questionnaire-based survey on the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for patients with STIC in Germany
Authors: van der Ven Josche , Linz Valerie Catherine , Anic Katharina , Schmidt Mona Wanda , Loewe Amelie , Krajnak Slavomir , Schmidt Marcus , Kommoss Stefan , Schmalfeldt Barbara , Sehouli Jalid , Hasenburg Annette , Battista Marco Johannes
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Despite the growing understanding of the carcinogenesis of pelvic high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) of the ovary and peritoneum and its precursor lesion serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma (STIC), evidence-based proven recommendations on the clinical management of patients with STIC are lacking so far.

Methods

A questionnaire containing 21 questions was developed to explore the clinical experience with patients with the diagnosis of STICs and the diagnostic, surgical and histopathological approaches in Germany. Overall, 540 clinical heads of department in all German gynaecological centres were asked to participate.

Results

131 questionnaires (response rate 24.3%) were included in this survey. 45.8% of the respondents had treated one to three STIC patients during their career. 75.6% of the respondents performed opportunistic bilateral salpingectomies during other gynaecological surgeries. Most of the participants (31.3%) started with the SEE-FIM (Sectioning and Extensively Examining the FIMbria) protocol in 2014. It was requested by 39.7% centres for prophylactic salpingectomies, by 13.7% for both prophylactic and opportunistic salpingectomies and by 22.1% for neither of both. 38.2%, 1.5% and 24.4% of the participants would use the laparoscopic, transverse and midline laparotomic approach for a surgical staging procedure, respectively. 25.6% (54.7%) of the respondents recommended a hysterectomy in premenopausal (versus postmenopausal) patients with a STIC, 24.4% (88.4%) a bilateral oophorectomy and 50.0% (4.7%) an affected side oophorectomy (all p values < 0.001). Omentectomy, pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy would be performed by 60.5% (64.0%), 9.3% (11.6%) and 9.3% (11.6%) of respondents in premenopausal (versus postmenopausal) patients (all p values > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our survey highlights significant inconsistency in the management of patients with STIC. Prospective data are urgently needed to elucidate the clinical impact of a STIC lesion and its clinical management.
Intra and interobserver agreement of the Dynamic Imaging Grade of Swallowing Toxicity Scale (DIGEST) in fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES): the importance of observer-tailored training
Authors: Simon Sorina R. , Wieland Monse W. M. , Hendriks Charlotte , Pilz Walmari , Schindler Antonio , Winkens Bjorn , Baijens Laura W. J.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The Dynamic Imaging Grade of Swallowing Toxicity (DIGEST) is a scale to quantify the severity of pharyngeal dysphagia in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. This study (1) described the training process of the observers for DIGEST in fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES), (2) determined observer agreement on the DIGEST in FEES, (3) explored the effect of bolus consistency on observer agreement, and 4) explored criterion validity of the DIGEST in FEES.

Methods

Twenty-seven dysphagic HNC patients were enrolled. Two observers completed a training program for DIGEST in FEES. Observer agreement on the Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS), percentage of pharyngeal residue (PPR), and DIGEST grades was determined using linearly weighted Cohen’s kappa coefficient (κ).

Results

Due to insufficient observer agreement after the first measurement attempt, additional training was organized using an elaborated manual with descriptions of the visuoperceptual variables, thereby improving observer agreement. Intraobserver agreement was almost perfect on the PAS (κ = 0.86–0.88) and PPR (κ = 0.84–0.86). Interobserver agreement was substantial on the PAS (κ = 0.78), almost perfect on the PPR (κ = 0.82), substantial on the safety grade (κ = 0.64), almost perfect on the efficiency grade (κ = 0.85), and substantial on the summary grade (κ = 0.71). Bolus consistency had an effect on observer agreement. A significant correlation was found between DIGEST efficiency grade and EAT-10.

Conclusion

The DIGEST showed to be a reproducible measurement for FEES in terms of observer agreement. However, agreement between novice observers on the DIGEST was only reached after specific observer-tailored training. Observer agreement should be analyzed by taking bolus consistency into account during training, as this might affect the interpretation of the outcome. A manual with well-defined descriptions can optimize the reproducibility of DIGEST measurements.
Working memory load impairs transfer learning in human adults
Authors: Balter Leonie J. T. , Raymond Jane E.
Published: January 2023

Transfer of learning refers to successful application of previously acquired knowledge or skills to novel settings. Although working memory (WM) is thought to play a role in transfer learning, direct evidence of the effect of limitations in WM on transfer learning is lacking. To investigate, we used an acquired equivalence paradigm that included tests of association and transfer learning. The effects of imposing an acute WM limitation on young adults was tested (within-subjects design: N = 27 adults; Mage = 24 years) by conducting learning transfer tests concurrent with a secondary task that required carrying a spatial WM load when performing the learned/transfer trial (Load condition) to acutely limit WM resources or no WM load (No-Load condition; WM was unloaded prior to performing the learned/transfer trial). Analyses showed that although success on the transfer trials was high in the No-Load condition, performance dropped to chance in the Load condition. Performance on tests of learned associations remained high in both conditions. These results indicate that transfer of learning depends on access to WM resources and suggest that even healthy young individuals may be affected in their ability to cross-utilize knowledge when cognitive resources become scarce, such as when engaging in two tasks simultaneously (e.g., using satellite navigation while driving).
Decompression and degassing, repressurization, and regassing during cyclic eruptions at Guagua Pichincha volcano, Ecuador, 1999–2001
Authors: Wright H. M. N. , Cioni R. , Cashman K. V. , Mothes P. , Rosi M.
Published: January 2023

In 1999–2001, Guagua Pichincha volcano, Ecuador, produced a series of cyclic explosive and effusive eruptions. Rock samples, including dense blocks and pumiceous clasts collected during the eruption sequence, and ballistic bombs later collected from the crater floor, provide information about magma storage, ascent, decompression, degassing, repressurization, and regassing prior to eruption. Pairs of Fe-Ti oxides indicate equilibrium within 1.2–1.5 log units above the NNO oxidation buffer and equilibrium temperatures from 805 to 905 °C. Melt inclusions record H2O contents of 2.7–4.6 wt% and CO2 contents (uncorrected for CO2 segregation into bubbles) from 19 to 310 ppm. Minimum melt inclusion saturation pressures fall between 69 and 168 MPa, or equilibration depths of 2.8 and 6.8 km, the lower end of which is coincident with the maximum inferred equilibration depths for the most vesicular breadcrust bombs sampled. Amphibole phenocrysts lack breakdown rims (except for one sample) and plagioclase phenocrysts have abundant oscillatory compositional zones. Plagioclase areal microlite number densities (Na) range over less than one order of magnitude (8.9×103–8.7×104 mm-2) among all samples, with the exception of a dense, low crystallinity sample (Na = 3.0×103 mm−2) and a pumiceous sample erupted on 17 December 1999 (Na = 1.7×103 mm−2). Plagioclase microlite shapes include tabular, hopper, and swallowtail forms. Taken together, the relatively high plagioclase microlite number densities, the high number of oscillatory zones in plagioclase phenocrysts, the presence of CO2 in groundmass glass, seismicity, and time-varying tilt cycles provide a picture of sudden evacuation of magma residing at different levels in the shallow conduit. Explosive eruptions punctuate inter-eruptive repose periods marked by time-varying rates of degassing (volatile fluxing) and re-pressurization. Shallow residence time in the conduit was sufficient to allow precipitation of silica-phase in the groundmass, but insufficient to allow breakdown of hornblende phenocrysts, with the one exception of the final dome sample from 2000, which has the longest preceding repose time. These results support a model of cyclic pressure cycling, volatile exsolution and regassing, and magma decompression decoupled from ascent.
Longitudinal relationship between albuminuria in infancy and childhood
Authors: Gracchi Valentina , van den Belt Sophie M. , Corpeleijn Eva , de Zeeuw Dick , Heerspink Hiddo J. L. , Verkade Henkjan J.
Published: January 2023

Background

Mildly increased albuminuria is common in the general adult population and is a strong predictor for cardiovascular events, even in otherwise healthy individuals. The underlying pathophysiological process could be endothelial dysfunction. Previously, we reported that increased albuminuria can also be found in 2-year-olds from the general population. We hypothesized that some individuals have constitutionally higher levels of albuminuria, possibly as an expression of early or inborn endothelial dysfunction. The aim of this study is to evaluate longitudinal persistence of albuminuria from infancy into school age.

Methods

In the population-based GECKO (Groningen Expert Center for Kids with Obesity) cohort, urine was collected from 816 children at the age of 2 years as well as 12 years (random urine and first morning void urine, respectively). We evaluated prevalence and persistence of increased albuminuria (UACR ≥ 3 mg/mmol) at the two time points.

Results

The prevalence of UACR ≥ 3 mg/mmol at 2 and 12 years of age was 31.9% (95% CI 28.7–35.2) and 3.1% (95% CI 2.0–4.5), respectively. UACR < 3 mg/mmol at both 2 and 12 years of age was present in 540 children (66.2%). Only 9 children (3.5%) of the 260 children with an UACR ≥ 3 mg/mmol at 2 years had an UACR ≥ 3 mg/mmol at 12 years (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Albuminuria in 2-year-olds does largely not persist until the age of 12, indicating that albuminuria at 2 years of age is not a marker for constitutional endothelial dysfunction in this cohort.

Graphical abstract
$$\Gamma $$–limit for a sharp interface model related to pattern formation on biomembranes
Authors: Brazke Denis , Knüpfer Hans , Marciniak–Czochra Anna
Published: January 2023

We derive a macroscopic limit for a sharp interface version of a model proposed in Komura et al. (Langmuir 22:6771–6774, 2006) to investigate pattern formation due to competition of chemical and mechanical forces in biomembranes. We identify sub- and supercritical parameter regimes and show with the introduction of the autocorrelation function that the ground state energy leads to the isoperimetric problem in the subcritical regime, which is interpreted to not form fine scale patterns.
A Maupertuis-type principle in relativistic mechanics and applications
Authors: Boscaggin Alberto , Dambrosio Walter , Muñoz-Hernández Eduardo
Published: January 2023

We provide a Maupertuis-type principle for the following system of ODE, of interest in special relativity: $$\begin{aligned} \frac{\textrm{d}}{{\textrm{d}}t}\left( \frac{m\dot{x}}{\sqrt{1-|\dot{x}|^2/c^2}}\right) =\nabla V(x),\qquad x\in \Omega \subset \mathbb {R}^n, \end{aligned}$$

d

d
t

m

x
˙

1
-
|

x
˙

|

2

/

c
2

=
∇
V

(
x
)

,

x
∈
Ω
⊂

R

n

,

where $$m, c > 0$$

m
,
c
>
0

and $$V: \Omega \rightarrow \mathbb {R}$$

V
:
Ω
→
R

is a function of class $$C^1$$

C
1

. As an application, we prove the existence of multiple periodic solutions with prescribed energy for a relativistic N-centre type problem in the plane.
Two short closed geodesics on a sphere of odd dimension
Authors: Rademacher Hans-Bert
Published: January 2023

We show that for an open and dense set ofnon-reversibleFinsler metrics on a sphere$$S^n$$Snof odd dimension$$n=2m-1\ge 3$$n=2m-1≥3there is a second closed geodesic with Morse index$$\le 4(m+2)(m-1)+2.$$≤4(m+2)(m-1)+2.