bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The epidemiology of pelvic ring fractures in Qatar
Authors: Elamin Mohamed H. , Elkaramany Islam , Salman Loay A. , Albasha Anas , Parambathkandi Ashik , Elramadi Ahmed , Ahmed Ghalib
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the incidence of pelvic ring fractures and their associated epidemiological profile in Qatar.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed at the only level I trauma centre in Qatar for patients diagnosed with pelvic ring fractures between January 2016 and December 2018. Age, sex, mechanism of injury, fracture classification and associated characteristics, mode of treatment, associated nerve injuries, and other complications were analyzed.

Results

A total of 327 consecutive patients were included, with an average age of 32.6 years. Most of the included patients were males, 85% (279), with a male: female ratio of 6:1. The incidence of pelvic fractures was 3.887/100,000 across the three years. High-speed motor vehicle collisions (MVC) were the most common mechanism of injury (108, 33%), followed by falling from height (105, 32%). Young-Burgess lateral compression (LC) fracture type was the most frequent (224, 68.5%) and was associated with 25% of the entire mortalities. Nine (2.8%) cases were open fractures, and 12% (39) were deemed unstable. Around 29% of cases had associated injuries, with an overall mortality rate of 4.9% (16) observed. Most fractures were treated nonoperatively(n = 283,86.5%).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the epidemiology of pelvic fractures in Qatar. MVC and work-related injuries were predominant in a younger cohort compared to the literature. Also, the mortality rate was lower than those reported in the literature. Therefore, well-trained surgeons and specialized trauma centres for treating these injuries are recommended.
Rapid accumulation and ascent precedes caldera forming eruption of low viscosity magma
Authors: Jorgenson Corin , Caricchi Luca , Chiaradia Massimo , Ágreda-López Mónica , Giordano Guido
Published: February 2024

Mafic magma is commonly associated with effusive eruptions, however several mafic volcanoes throughout the globe have produced explosive eruptions. Here we present one such volcano – Colli Albani. Colli Albani is 20 km SE of Rome and produced seven large volume ignimbrites. Field observations, mineral chemistry, and Sr and Nd isotopes in clinopyroxene show that the high potassic, silica undersaturated and CO$$_{2}$$

2

-rich magma typical of Colli Albani is produced by partial melting of a metasomatized mantle. Clinopyroxene based thermobarometry combined with thermal modelling, indicates rapid accumulation of magma into the shallow crust preceding the last caldera forming event (355 ka). The crystallization of high Mg# and high Cr$$_{2}$$

2

O$$_{3}$$

3

clinopyroxenes at low pressures and high temperatures indicates rapid magma ascent from the mantle. We suggest that a final rapid input of this deeply sourced magma destabilised the shallow and fast assembled magma reservoir and lead to the caldera forming event. Our findings have significant implications for the evaluation of the timescales of reactivation of Colli Albani and other similar long-quiescent calderas erupting low viscosity magmas, as rapid migration of magma to shallow reservoirs may result in short unrest periods prior to a large eruption.
Miscarriage risk assessment: a bioinformatic approach to identifying candidate lethal genes and variants
Authors: Aminbeidokhti Mona , Qu Jia-Hua , Belur Shweta , Cakmak Hakan , Jaswa Eleni , Lathi Ruth B. , Sirota Marina , Snyder Michael P. , Yatsenko Svetlana A. , Rajkovic Aleksandar
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Miscarriage, often resulting from a variety of genetic factors, is a common pregnancy outcome. Preconception genetic carrier screening (PGCS) identifies at-risk partners for newborn genetic disorders; however, PGCS panels currently lack miscarriage-related genes. In this study, we evaluated the potential impact of both known and candidate genes on prenatal lethality and the effectiveness of PGCS in diverse populations.

Methods

We analyzed 125,748 human exome sequences and mouse and human gene function databases. Our goals were to identify genes crucial for human fetal survival (lethal genes), to find variants not present in a homozygous state in healthy humans, and to estimate carrier rates of known and candidate lethal genes in various populations and ethnic groups.

Results

This study identified 138 genes in which heterozygous lethal variants are present in the general population with a frequency of 0.5% or greater. Screening for these 138 genes could identify 4.6% (in the Finnish population) to 39.8% (in the East Asian population) of couples at risk of miscarriage. This explains the cause of pregnancy loss in approximately 1.1–10% of cases affected by biallelic lethal variants.

Conclusion

This study has identified a set of genes and variants potentially associated with lethality across different ethnic backgrounds. The variation of these genes across ethnic groups underscores the need for a comprehensive, pan-ethnic PGCS panel that includes genes related to miscarriage.
Evaluation of a novel home-based laparoscopic and core surgical skills programme (Monash Online Surgical Training)
Authors: Leng Samantha , Chaudhry Noor , Pacilli Maurizio , Nataraja Ramesh Mark
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Limitations to surgical education access were exacerbated during the COVID-19 Pandemic. In response, we created a national home-based comprehensive surgical skills course: Monash Online Surgical Training (MOST). Our aim was to evaluate the educational impact of this approach.

Methods

A remote, 6-week course was designed with learning objectives aligned to the national surgical training. Participants received a personal laparoscopic bench trainer, instrument tracking software, live webinars, access to an online theoretical learning platform, and individualised feedback by system-generated or expert surgeons’ assessments. Mixed method analysis of instrument tracking metrics, pre- and post-course questionnaires (11 core surgical domains) and participant comments was utilised. Data were analysed using the Mann–Whitney U test, and a p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 54 participants with varied levels of experience (1 to > 6 years post-graduate level) completed MOST. All 11 learning-outcome domains demonstrated statistically significant improvement including core laparoscopic skills (1.4/5 vs 2.8/5, p < 0.0001) and handling laparoscopic instruments (1.5/5 vs 2.8/5, p < 0.0001). A total of 3460 tasks were completed reflecting 158.2 h (9492 min) of practice, 394 were submitted for formal feedback. Participants rated the course (mean 8.5/10, SD 1.6), live webinars (mean 8.9/10, SD 1.6) and instrument tracking software (mean 8.6, SD 1.7) highly. Qualitative analysis revealed a paradigm shift including the benefits of a safe learning environment and self-paced, self-directed learning.

Conclusion

The MOST course demonstrates the successful implementation of a fully remote laparoscopic simulation course which participants found to be an effective tool to acquire core surgical skills.

Graphical abstract
Professionalität der Gesprächsbegleitenden und Freiwilligkeit der Teilnehmenden als ethische Herausforderungen von Advance Care Planning
Authors: Seifart Carola , Heubel Friedrich , Schmidhuber Martina , Kropf Mario
Published: February 2024

Patientinnen und Patienten steht das Recht auf Behandlung nach ihren eigenen Vorstellungen auch dann zu, wenn sie aktuell keinen eigenen Willen bilden können. Advance Care Planning (ACP), als ein spezielles Verfahren der gesundheitlichen Vorsorgeplanung, zielt darauf ab, dieses Dilemma durch eine Willensbestimmung im Voraus aufzulösen. Besonders ausgebildete Gesprächsbegleiter*innen bieten an, bei der Ermittlung, Formulierung und Dokumentation eines solchen, die individuelle gesundheitliche Situation berücksichtigenden Willens zu helfen. Das Umfeld der Betroffenen soll in den Gesprächsprozess einbezogen und es soll organisatorisch gesichert werden, dass deren Willensbestimmung den aktuell Behandelnden im Bedarfsfall faktisch zugänglich ist. Das Verfahren kombiniert also ein kommunikatives mit einem institutionellen Element. Aus ethischer Sicht stellen sich dabei zwei wesentliche Herausforderungen. Erstens erfordert Gesprächsbegleitung mit einem so komplexen Ziel Kompetenzen und setzt bestimmte Haltungen voraus, wie sie für Professionen im strengen Sinne typisch sind. Daher wäre es wichtig, entsprechende professionelle Normen explizit zu machen, beispielsweise in Form eines Berufs-Kodex. Zweitens muss das Verfahren trotz seiner institutionellen Form für die Betroffenen freiwillig sein. Dies ist entscheidend für die Validität des Prozesses, aber auch für dessen Ergebnis. Denn wenn Letzteres rechtlich bindend sein soll, müssen die Betroffenen freiverantwortlich, d. h. ohne sog. Willensmängel handeln können. Es ist deshalb ethische Pflicht, beim Eintritt in und im Verlauf der Beratung auf die Freiwilligkeit zu achten.
The association between lower limb fractures and weight gain in adults: a prospective analysis of body mass index trends
Authors: Lari Ali , Haidar Abdullah , Mohammad Hussain , Makhseed Mohammad , Alajmi Mejbel , Bahbahani Retaj , Almutairi Majed , Alnusif Naser , Lari Eisa
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Despite understanding the connection between obesity and fracture risk, there is limited research on the implications of lower limb fractures on subsequent changes in body mass index (BMI). Our study aimed to assess the impact of lower limb fractures on BMI alterations over an 18-month period.

Methods

A multi-center, prospective cohort study was conducted between January 2021 to June 2023, involving 494 adults with lower limb fractures. Participants were recruited within 2 weeks post-injury and were assessed for demographics, injury details, and weight at seven distinct time points. By 18 months, the primary outcome was the mean weight gain.

Results

The average age of the participants was 39 (± 12.7) with a baseline weight and BMI of 80.4 kg and 27.6, respectively. At the 18-month follow-up, 75% of patients experienced an average weight increase in 4 kg (± 5.39 kg), equating to a BMI rise of 1.39 (± 1.88). Most patients attributed weight changes to their injury, with nearly half expressing distress from their weight change. Only 37% believed that they had resumed their previous activity levels by the final follow-up. Approximately 31% of the patients sought some form of external weight management care in the form of nutritionist advice, training programs, medication and weight management procedures.

Conclusions

Lower limb fractures significantly affect weight gain over an 18-month period, with substantial psychological and physical consequences. Healthcare providers should anticipate potential weight gain post-fracture and incorporate strategies addressing both physical and mental aspects of rehabilitation to enhance recovery outcomes. Early and even immediate weight bearing may play a pivotal role in mitigating weight changes and returning the patient to their previous level of activity. Further detailed studies focusing on different fractures and postoperative interventions are recommended.
Excimer light effect on neurogenic inflammation in active versus stable psoriasis lesions
Authors: El-Mesidy Marwa S. , Metwally Yomna A. , Nour Zeinab A. , Elmasry Maha F.
Published: February 2024

Neurogenic inflammation, mediated by T helper 17 cell (Th17) and neurons that release neuropeptides such as substance P (SP), is thought to play a role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Excimer light is used in the treatment of psoriasis via induction of T cell apoptosis. The objective of this study is to study the effect of excimer light on active versus stable psoriasis and investigate the levels of substance P and its receptor in both groups. The study included 27 stable and 27 active psoriatic patients as well as 10 matched healthy controls. Clinical examination (in the form of local psoriasis severity index (PSI) and visual analogue scale (VAS)) was done to determine disease severity, level of itching, and quality of life. Tissue levels of SP and neurokinin-1 receptor (NK-1R) were measured by ELISA before and after 9 excimer light sessions in 43 patients. A statistically significant lower levels of PSI and VAS were reached after therapy with no significant difference between the stable and active groups. The mean tissue levels of SP before therapy were significantly higher than the control group. Lower levels of SP and NK-1 receptor were found after treatment overall and in each group. Excimer therapy can be effective for both stable and active plaque psoriasis and this effect could be partly through its role on ameliorating the neurogenic inflammation.
A Spanish value set for the SF-6D based on the SF-12 v1
Authors: Martínez-Pérez Jorge-Eduardo , Abellán-Perpiñán José-María , Sánchez-Martínez Fernando-Ignacio , Ruiz-López Juan-José
Published: February 2024

Aim

This paper reports the first estimation of an SF-6D value set based on the SF-12 for Spain.

Methods

A representative sample (n = 1020) of the Spanish general population valued a selection of 56 hypothetical SF-6D health states by means of a probability lottery equivalent (PLE) method. The value set was derived using both random effects and mean models estimated by ordinary least squares (OLS). The best model was chosen on the basis of its predictive ability assessed in terms of mean absolute error (MAE).

Results

The model yielding the lowest MAE (0.075) was that based on main effects using OLS. Pain was the most significant dimension in predicting health state severity. Comparison with the previous SF-6D (SF-36) model estimated for Spain revealed no significant differences, with a similar MAE (0.081). Nevertheless, the new SF-6D (SF-12) model predicted higher utilities than those generated by the SF-6D (SF-36) scoring algorithm (minimum value − 0.071 vs − 0.357).

Conclusion

A value set for the SF-6D (SF-12) based on Spanish general population preferences elicited by means of a PLE technique is successfully estimated. The new estimated SF-6D (SF-12) preference-based measure provides a valuable tool for researchers and policymakers to assess the cost-effectiveness of new health technologies in Spain.
Analysis of interaction between reinforced concrete walls and slabs tested on a shaking table
Authors: Isakovic Tatjana , Janevski Antonio
Published: February 2024

An analysis of the interaction between reinforced concrete walls and slabs tested on the shaking table was performed. The tested structure consisted of four walls connected by three slabs without coupling beams. Although these walls would be typically considered cantilever walls, significant coupling was observed, resulting in considerably different response mechanisms than those observed for typical cantilever walls. As observed in past earthquakes, these unexpected response mechanisms can cause walls' brittle failure. Numerical analyses were performed to study the critical parameters causing the observed response. The response was primarily influenced by the considerable slabs' effective width (EW), significantly affecting the walls' and slabs' strength ratio. Owing to the large EW, the slabs' strength was threefold larger than the standard value typically considered in the design. The slabs provided considerable coupling (CL) of walls, significantly increasing the total stiffness and the total base shear (BS) of the structure compared to standard cantilever walls. Owing to the increased BS and redistribution of the demand between wall piers caused by large CL, the maximum shear forces in the piers were more than doubled than that observed in the cantilever walls. The compression axial forces in piers were also considerably increased, causing the buckling of the longitudinal reinforcement.
Scalable Task Allocation with Communications Connectivity for Flying Ad-Hoc Networks
Authors: Leong Wai Lun , Cao Jiawei , Teo Rodney
Published: February 2024

Task allocation enables heterogeneous agents to execute heterogeneous tasks in the domain of unmanned aerial vehicles, while responding to dynamic changes in the environment and available resources to complete complex, multi-objective missions, leading to swarm intelligence. We propose a bio-inspired approach using digital pheromones to perform scalable task allocation when the number of agents, tasks, and the diameter of the communications graph increase. The resulting emergent behaviour also enables idle agents in the swarm to provide periodic or continuous connectivity between disconnected parts of the swarm. We validate our results through simulation and demonstrate the feasibility of our approach by applying it to the 3D coverage and patrol problem.
Re-exploring the antecedents of proactivity at work
Authors: Hawthorne Bruce N.
Published: February 2024

This paper reports two studies that utilized full structural equation modeling to explore the antecedents of proactivity at work. It was motivated by observations from a recent replication of a leading proactivity model, Parker et al. (J Appl Psychol 91(3):636–652, 2006. https://doi.org/10.1037/0021-9010.91.3.636) in which the replication model failed to confirm multiple previously reported variable relationships and manifested significant evidence of omitted variable bias (correlation between exogenous predictor variables and the disturbance term of the model’s dependent variable). Study 1 revisited the antecedents of proactivity in light of the unexpected replication model results. Utilizing the same diverse dataset (N = 521), it analyzed the relationships among all of the original model variables, together with a new contextual information availability variable, and constructed a new model (the “Modified Model”) consisting of the path relationships that were observed as statistically significant. The Modified Model differs from the original model in multiple respects: (i) it removes four of eight original variable path relationships, which could not be replicated as statistically significant, (ii) it removes a posited proactivity antecedent, flexible role orientation, whose path relationship with its predictor, co-worker trust, was observed as significant, but negative, (iii) it adds a direct path relationship between proactive personality and proactivity at work, (iv) it respecifies co-worker trust from an exogenous to an endogenous proactivity antecedent of proactivity at work, and (v) it specifies CI availability as new exogenous antecedent of co-worker trust. The Modified Model achieved good model fit and high explained variance (R2 = 0.64). In addition, the Modified Model did not manifest the evidence of omitted variable bias that was observed for the original model utilizing the same dataset. Study 2 was undertaken to cross-verify both of the prior studies using a fresh dataset (N = 479), and both prior studies were confirmed. Re-replication of the Parker et al. (J Appl Psychol 91(3):636–652, 2006. https://doi.org/10.1037/0021-9010.91.3.636) model again manifested evidence of omitted variable bias and provided evidence that corresponded with the results of the initial replication—significant differences from the observations reported by the original study. On the other hand, replication of the Modified Model again manifested no evidence of omitted variable bias, and resulted in observations that confirmed the Study1 observations used to construct the Modified Model. Taken together, Studies 1 and 2 provide evidence of the overall validity of the Modified Model of the antecedents of proactivity at work.
Xylodon lanatus complex and other additions to Xylodon
Authors: Yurchenko Eugene , Riebesehl Janett , Viner Ilya , Motato-Vásquez Viviana , Miettinen Otto
Published: February 2024

Xylodon lanatus and closely related species were studied with molecular and morphological means. This species complex contains six species, two of which we describe as new. Species in the complex have minutely odontioid hymenophore projections that consist of encrusted, firm-walled hyphae and ellipsoid spores. We assign an epitype for X. lanatus, for which ITS and 28S rDNA sequences were obtained, and amend the concept of X. pseudolanatus. The two new species, both well supported in our phylogenetic analyses, are X. afromontanus, found in Eastern Africa, and X. mantiqueirensis, found in southeastern Brazil. We show the phylogenetic affinity of X. echinatus with X. lanatus for the first time, and according to new data the range of the previous species extends to Sunda Archipelago. We provide scanning electron microscopy illustrations of the crystalline deposits on projecting hyphae for the above-mentioned species. The sixth member of the complex is X. kunmingensis. Outside the X. lanatus complex, we report additional sequenced specimens of X. hyphodontinus. A new species, X. neotropicus from South America, related to X. hyphodontinus, is described. We also describe X. gloeocystidiifer from Ecuador as new species. It is characterised by globose/broadly ellipsoid spores, gloeocystidia and capitate cystidia with a resinous cap. The heterotypic names Hyphodontia yunnanensis and Xylodon yunnanensis are considered. We suggest the previous one is a synonym of the latter.
Luzide Trauminduktion mittels Wake-up-back-to-bed stand-alone im Home-Setting: ein Onlineversuch
Authors: Klofat Beate , Steingen Ulrich , Abrantes Vanessa Henriques , Metz Celvin , Pabst Katharina Lea , Palme Johannes Justus
Published: February 2024

Hintergrund

Luzide Träume (LD) sind mit verschiedenen Techniken induzierbar, jedoch nicht zuverlässig. Erfolg versprechend sind Methoden, die mit Wake-up-back-to-bed (WBTB), d. h. einer Schlafunterbrechung kombiniert werden. Studien konzentrieren sich auf Schlaflaborsettings und erfahrene luzide Träumer. Wake-up-back-to-bed wurde noch nicht alleinstehend und in natürlicher Schlafumgebung untersucht.

Zielsetzung

Es sollte erprobt werden, ob WBTB stand-alone (SA) im Home-Setting umsetzbar und zur LD-Induktion geeignet ist.

Methoden

Um die Effektivität von WBTB-SA ohne Erwartungs‑/Kombinationseffekte zu erfassen, wurde es ohne Hinweise auf LD eingesetzt. Hierzu wurden für ein Onlineexperiment 153 v. a. studentische Probanden (Pbn) rekrutiert. Das Protokoll sah eine Weckzeit nach 5 h mit 30 min Schlafunterbrechung vor, während der ein detailreicher Text für eine Gedächtnisaufgabe zu lesen war. Am Morgen wurden Daten zu Protokolladhärenz, Schlaf, Träumen, LD-Vorerfahrung und LD in der Nacht erhoben.

Ergebnisse

Von den Pbn hatten 63 % Vorerfahrung mit LD, 5 % träumten in der Studiennacht luzide, alle 8 LD-vorerfahren. Einer nutzte eine weitere Induktionstechnik, einer war vor dem WBTB luzide. Zehn Pbn (7 %), davon 3 unerfahren, waren unsicher, ob sie luzid geträumt hatten. Die sichere LD-Rate lag bei 6/138 = 4,3 % in der WBTB-Nacht.

Für Binomialtests wurden individuelle Vorerfahrungsraten zum Vergleich herangezogen. Eine erwartete LD-Spontanrate von 2,5–4,3 % ergab keinen signifikanten Effekt von WBTB-SA. Ein Steigerungseffekt auf die Traumerinnerungsrate (DRF) konnte hingegen belegt werden. Als Nebenwirkung zeigten sich (Wieder‑)Einschlafstörungen.

Diskussion

Wake-up-back-to-bed stand-alone ist im häuslichen Schlafumfeld anwendbar. Offen bleibt, ob damit LD induzierbar sind und ob dies allein über die Steigerung der DRF geschieht.
RPN1 promotes the proliferation and invasion of breast cancer cells by activating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Shen Wei-juan , Zhang Yi
Published: February 2024

Ribophorin I (RPN1), a part of an N-oligosaccharyl-transferase complex, plays a vital role in the development of multiple cancers. However, its biological role in breast cancer has not been completely clarified. The RPN1 expression level was measured in breast cancer tissues and breast cancer cell lines (MCF7) using RT-qPCR. After down-regulating RPN1 expression by shRNA, the effects of RPN1 on the proliferation, migration and invasion of MCF7 cells were examined. Mechanistically, we assessed the effect of RPN1 on the PI3K/ AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. We found that RPN1 level was up-regulated in breast cancer tissues and cells compared with adjacent non-tumor tissues or MCF10A cells. RPN1 knockdown induced apoptosis and attenuated the proliferation, migration, and invasion of MCF7 cells. Moreover, RPN1 knockdown lowered the levels of p-PI3K/PI3K, p-AKT/AKT, and p-mTOR/mTOR, which were rescued by 740Y-P, a PI3K activator. 740Y-P also reversed the effects of RPN1 knockdown on apoptosis, proliferation, migration, and invasion in MCF7 cells. Taken together, RPN1 promotes the proliferation, migration, and invasion of breast cancer cells via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.
Human Extinction and AI: What We Can Learn from the Ultimate Threat
Authors: Lavazza Andrea , Vilaça Murilo
Published: February 2024

Human extinction is something generally deemed as undesirable, although some scholars view it as a potential solution to the problems of the Earth since it would reduce the moral evil and the suffering that are brought about by humans. We contend that humans collectively have absolute intrinsic value as sentient, conscious and rational entities, and we should preserve them from extinction. However, severe threats, such as climate change and incurable viruses, might push humanity to the brink of extinction. Should that occur, it might be useful to envision a successor to humans able to preserve and hand down its value. One option would be to resort to humanoid robots that reproduce our salient characteristics by imitation, thanks to AI powered by machine learning. However, the question would arise of how to select the characteristics needed for our successors to thrive. This could prove to be particularly challenging. A way out might come from an algorithm entrusted with this choice. In fact, an algorithmic selection both at the social and at the individual level could be a preferred choice than other traditional ways of making decisions. In this sense, reflecting on human extinction helps us to identify solutions that are also suitable for the problems we face today.
Influenza vaccination patterns among at-risk patients during the Covid-19 pandemic—a retrospective cross-sectional study based on claims data
Authors: Plate Andreas , Bagnoud Christophe , Rosemann Thomas , Senn Oliver , Di Gangi Stefania
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The Covid-19 pandemic may have encouraged at-risk patients to get vaccinated against influenza for the first time. As previous vaccinations are known predictors for further vaccinations, knowledge about individual vaccination patterns, especially in first time vaccinated patients, is of great interest. The aim of this study was to determine influenza vaccination uptake rate (VUR), individual vaccination patterns and factors associated with vaccination uptake among at-risk patients.

Methods

The study design was retrospective cross-sectional. Based on claims data, VUR was determined for four influenza seasons (2018/2019—2021/2022). In a cohort subgroup, with data available for all seasons, VUR, vaccination patterns and factors associated with uptake were determined. At-risk patients were people aged ≥ 65 and adult patients with chronic diseases.

Results

We included n = 238,461 patients in the cross-sectional analysis. Overall VUR ranged between 21.8% (2018/2019) and 29.1% (2020/2021). Cohort subgroup consisted of n = 138,526 patients. Within the cohort, 56% were never vaccinated and 11% were vaccinated in all seasons. 14.3% of previously unvaccinated patients were vaccinated for the first time in the first pandemic season (2020/2021 season). The strongest predictor for vaccination was history of vaccinations in all previous seasons (OR 56.20, 95%CI 53.62–58.90, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Influenza VUR increased during the Covid-19 pandemic, but only a minority of previously eligible but unvaccinated at-risk patients were vaccinated for the first time in the first pandemic season. Previous vaccinations are predictors for subsequent vaccinations and health care professionals should actively address at-risk patients’ vaccination history in order to recommend vaccination in future seasons.
The Past, Present and Future of EU Copyright Flexibilities
Authors: Sganga Caterina
Published: February 2024

Building on a wealth of studies on the strengths and pitfalls of EU harmonisation in the field of copyright exceptions and limitations, and on the state of the art of the copyright balance across the Union, the H2020 projectreCreating Europeperformed an unprecedented comparative mapping of EU and national legislative acts and case law regulating copyright “flexibilities” (exceptions and limitations; definition of protectable subject-matter; terms of protection; exhaustion; judicial doctrines such as fair balance and the horizontal effects of fundamental rights on copyright law; statutory licensing schemes; paying public domain et al.). On this basis, it produced national and comparative reports, grouped into 12 homogeneous categories of permitted uses. The study aimed at (a) assessing the degree of harmonisation across the EU and the impact of their territoriality and optional nature on the proper functioning of the system; (b) mapping which “uses” and “purposes” are balanced against copyright and with what results, both in the EU and in each Member State; and (c) identifying the regulatory gaps and enablers impacting on the proper functioning of copyright flexibilities across the Union. This article will provide an overview of the background, methodology (Section 2) and main results of the research, sketching the past and present of EU copyright flexibilities (Section 3). On this basis, it will provide general and specific recommendations for future reforms (Section 4).
Highly Elastic, Bioresorbable Polymeric Materials for Stretchable, Transient Electronic Systems
Authors: Shin Jeong-Woong , Kim Dong-Je , Jang Tae-Min , Han Won Bae , Lee Joong Hoon , Ko Gwan-Jin , Yang Seung Min , Rajaram Kaveti , Han Sungkeun , Kang Heeseok , Lim Jun Hyeon , Eom Chan-Hwi , Bandodkar Amay J. , Min Hanul , Hwang Suk-Won
Published: February 2024

Substrates or encapsulants in soft and stretchable formats are key components for transient, bioresorbable electronic systems; however, elastomeric polymers with desired mechanical and biochemical properties are very limited compared to non-transient counterparts. Here, we introduce a bioresorbable elastomer, poly(glycolide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PGCL), that contains excellent material properties including high elongation-at-break (< 1300%), resilience and toughness, and tunable dissolution behaviors. Exploitation of PGCLs as polymer matrices, in combination with conducing polymers, yields stretchable, conductive composites for degradable interconnects, sensors, and actuators, which can reliably function under external strains. Integration of device components with wireless modules demonstrates elastic, transient electronic suture system with on-demand drug delivery for rapid recovery of post-surgical wounds in soft, time-dynamic tissues.
Molecular Mechanisms of Intracellular Delivery of Nanoparticles Monitored by an Enzyme-Induced Proximity Labeling
Authors: Ren Junji , Zhang Zibin , Geng Shuo , Cheng Yuxi , Han Huize , Fan Zhipu , Dai Wenbing , Zhang Hua , Wang Xueqing , Zhang Qiang , He Bing
Published: February 2024

Achieving increasingly finely targeted drug delivery to organs, tissues, cells, and even to intracellular biomacromolecules is one of the core goals of nanomedicines. As the delivery destination is refined to cellular and subcellular targets, it is essential to explore the delivery of nanomedicines at the molecular level. However, due to the lack of technical methods, the molecular mechanism of the intracellular delivery of nanomedicines remains unclear to date. Here, we develop an enzyme-induced proximity labeling technology in nanoparticles (nano-EPL) for the real-time monitoring of proteins that interact with intracellular nanomedicines. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles coupled with horseradish peroxidase (HRP) were fabricated as a model (HRP(+)-PNPs) to evaluate the molecular mechanism of nano delivery in macrophages. By adding the labeling probe biotin-phenol and the catalytic substrate H2O2 at different time points in cellular delivery, nano-EPL technology was validated for the real-time in situ labeling of proteins interacting with nanoparticles. Nano-EPL achieves the dynamic molecular profiling of 740 proteins to map the intracellular delivery of HRP (+)-PNPs in macrophages over time. Based on dynamic clustering analysis of these proteins, we further discovered that different organelles, including endosomes, lysosomes, the endoplasmic reticulum, and the Golgi apparatus, are involved in delivery with distinct participation timelines. More importantly, the engagement of these organelles differentially affects the drug delivery efficiency, reflecting the spatial–temporal heterogeneity of nano delivery in cells. In summary, these findings highlight a significant methodological advance toward understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in the intracellular delivery of nanomedicines.
Discrete element analysis of hydraulic stimulation in a slate geothermal reservoir using the ubiquitous foliation model
Authors: Weng Meng-Chia , Peng Chia-Hsun , Le Hoang-Khanh , Shiu Wen-Jie , Fang Chih-Hung
Published: February 2024

This study employs the discrete element method for a series of coupled hydro-mechanical analyses aimed at investigating the hydraulic stimulation effect on a slate geothermal reservoir. Initially, a ubiquitous foliation model (UFM) is devised to characterize the mechanical properties of slate. The UFM consists of a foliation model for near-field discontinuity features and a ubiquitous model for far-field anisotropic rock behavior. The devised model undergoes validation through an established benchmark analysis considering isotropic conditions. The analysis is subsequently extended to investigate anisotropic shear response influenced by the foliation. In cases where the anisotropic angle equals 90°, new fractures initiate along the foliation, which leads to a concentrated and severe damage pattern. In contrast, models with the anisotropic angle of 45° and 135° exhibit minor failures due to foliation orientation hindering fracture propagation. Lastly, an anisotropic hydraulic-mechanical analysis is undertaken to assess the hydraulic stimulation influence and its consequential effects on a slate geothermal reservoir. The results indicate that higher injection rates amplify damage to the rock matrix and the propagation of fractures, which are concentrated between open fractures and adjacent foliations.
What Do JNC Youth Workers Conceive of as ‘Professional Maturity’ in Youth Work Practice
Authors: Williams Simon , Richardson Ruth
Published: February 2024

This research set out to take a snapshot of what JNC practitioners in youth and community work defined as ‘Professional Maturity’ and to explore if this notion impacted on practice. To achieve this, the researchers worked with the Institute for youth work, to garner responses from practitioners in the youth work sector via an online questionnaire and an online semi-structured interview. In the inductive phenomenological approach taken to data analysis, some surprising patterns emerged that will require further exploration. The result of these findings has generated an ‘in the moment’ snapshot of ‘Professional Maturity’ for youth work in the shape of a model for practice that will still require critical examination. The data generated and the subsequent analysis highlights six themes: Qualification, Professional Transference, Attributes, Values, Beyond Self, and Chameleon. The key finding of this research has shown that Professional Maturity is an ever-evolving aspect of a youth workers journey rather than a final destination. However, research respondents did appear to have different expectations on what Professional Maturity should look like and how it affects individuals practice across the field.
Application of machine learning technique for dynamic analysis of confined geomaterial subjected to vibratory load
Authors: Boban Ammu , Pateriya Preeti , Kumar Yakshansh , Gaur Kshitij , Trivedi Ashutosh
Published: February 2024

Computer programming-based numerical programs are firmly established in geotechnical engineering, with rapid growth of finite element modeling and machine learning techniques gaining much attention both in practice and academia. This study is intended to expedite the dissemination of advanced computer applications in terms of finite element simulation and machine learning models by investigating the dynamic response of geomaterials subjected to vibratory loads. Several trial models were built to perform the experimental investigations with a vibratory shaker, signal generator, several accelerometers, a data collection system, and other ancillary devices. The implicit integration techniques in commercialized software were adopted for numerical simulations. After data collection from numerical simulation, models were chosen, trained, and assessed to produce predictions that were then used in this study. Several technologies, including the ensemble boosted tree, squared exponential Gaussian Process Regression (GPR), Matern 5/2 GPR, exponential GPR, and decision tree architectures (fine and medium), were used to forecast the displacement of confined geomaterial. The displacement-depth ratio was found rising to 80% in the frequency range of 5 to 25 Hz, suggesting a considerable change in the behavior of the geomaterial. The Matern 5/2 GPR model showed better accuracy with an R2 value of 0.99, indicating an outstanding predictive ability. The Matern 5/2 GPR and boosted tree models could help better understand the links between displacement and its distribution along the direction of load application. The outcomes of this study based on computer-aided finite element programs can be effectively implemented in machine learning to develop computer programs. In conclusion, the computational machine learning models adopted in this study offer a new insight for uncovering hidden intrinsic laws and creating new knowledge for geotechnical researchers and practitioners.
Review on conductometric, volumetric and computational studies on surfactants-amino acids interactions
Authors: Ansari Nizamul Haque , Khan Akil Ahmed , Iqubal S. M. Shakeel , Mohammed Tasneem , Asghar Basim H.
Published: February 2024

In this review amino acid-surfactant interactions mainly in aqueous solution has been explained. Amino acids and surfactants interactions are important in many studies because of their enhanced effectiveness in both living and non-living worlds. As physicochemical properties are additive, the study of interactions between amino acids and surfactants offer insights into how proteins unfold and denaturate in various media, which further alters with a change in physiological parameters like pH, additives, no of carbon in the chain and temperature. Keeping this in mind, in this review main emphasis has been on conductometric, volumetric and computational studies for detailed exploration of solute–solvent interactions of amino acids and surfactants in aqueous medium and effect of temperature on these interactions. Conductance data has been used to find the critical micelle concentration (CMC) of the surfactant. Using CMC, standard Gibbs free energy of micellization, ($${\Delta G}_{{\text{m}}}^{{0}}$$

Δ
G

m

0

), enthalpy of micellization, ($${\Delta H}_{{\text{m}}}^{{0}}$$

Δ
H

m

0

), entropy of micellization, ($${\Delta S}_{{\text{m}}}^{{0}}$$

Δ
S

m

0

) have been determined for surfactant in presence of amino acids. In volumetric investigation, density data has been utilized to find apparent molar volumes of amino acids, (ϕv) and partial molar volume (ϕ0v), which is used to find soute-solvent interaction. In computational studies the effects of carbon tail length on CMC and aggregation number, (Ag) for the pure Gemini surfactant system were examined and these data were compared with experimental results to find the agreement between different methods.
Fault Diagnosis of Wastewater Treatment Processes Based on CPSO-DKPCA
Authors: Xu Baochang , Zhuang Peng , Wang Yaxin , He Wei , Wang Zhongjun , Liu Zhongyao
Published: February 2024

The wastewater treatment process (WWTP) is one of the most common links in chemical plants. However, the testing for diagnosing faults in wastewater treatment plants is expensive and time-consuming. Due to strong nonlinearity and variable autocorrelation, traditional WWTP diagnostic methods based on principal component analysis (PCA) can lead to low fault detection rates (FDR) or difficulty in determining the root cause of faults. In this paper, an improved dynamic kernel principal component analysis (DKPCA) and Granger causality (GC) analysis model that uses chaotic particle swarm optimization (CPSO) to detect WWTP and locate the root causes of faults is proposed. First, a kernel function is introduced to map a nonlinear matrix to a linear space. Then, the training data are extended through a time lag constant to solve the problem of nonlinear and variable autocorrelation in WWTP. Moreover, a novel fault candidate variables selection method, together with GC, is introduced to locate the root variables of the fault. The CPSO algorithm is employed to optimize DKPCA's kernel function parameters, enhancing the accuracy of fault monitoring and diagnosis models. Compared with traditional methods, the proposed method has a better fault detection rate, achieving 95.83% and 93.33% fault detection rates in simulated and real WWTP, respectively.
High-Resolution Simulation of the Near-Field Pollutant Dispersion in a Nuclear Power Plant Community with High-Performance Computing
Authors: Tang Bowen , Wang Hao , Xu Jianjun , Lin Jiazhen , Hu Jinxing , Chen Rongliang
Published: February 2024

This study aims to employ numerical simulations to understand the dynamics of wind fields and air pollutant dispersion in the proximity of a nuclear plant, situated within a specified urban environment. By leveraging computational fluid dynamics (CFD) combined with geographical information system (GIS) data, the research comprehensively models atmospheric interactions in terms of wind flow patterns, building-induced pressure variances, and pollutant trajectories. The computational domain extends over an area of

$$8.8\,\textrm{km} \times 8.4\,\textrm{km}$$

8.8

km
×
8.4

km

, vertically stretching to 0.5 km. The wind and pollutant distribution equations are discretized using the finite volume method, providing detailed insights into fluid interactions with urban topographies. Key findings highlight the profound influences of terrain, urban structures, and wind flow behavior on the dispersion of radioactive aerosols, shedding light on potential risks and safety protocols for nuclear plant environments.
The wettability of metallic glasses: a review
Authors: Guo Yu-yao , Xu Jun-jie , Zhu Li-na , Kang Jia-jie , Zhou Yong-kuan , Fu Zhi-qiang , She Ding-shun
Published: February 2024

Metallic glasses, displaying extraordinary physical and chemical properties, have garnered robust research enthusiasm. Inspired by the exceptional wetting biological surfaces, superhydrophobic surfaces have attracted considerable attention. Superhydrophobic surfaces with both excellent mechanical and chemical stability could be prepared using metallic glasses and have developed considerably over the last few years. In this review, diverse fundamental aspects of wettability are discussed in detail. The methods for preparing superhydrophobic metallic glass surfaces are briefly summarized and compared. The corrosion resistance, self-cleaning, oil/water separation and other potential promising applications of the superhydrophobic surfaces are demonstrated. In the last section, the current limitations in preparative methods for superhydrophobic metallic glass surfaces and future trends in preparation and application are also discussed. It can be used to guide the surface modification of metallic glasses as well as more engineering applications.
CRISPR/Cas-mediated germplasm improvement and new strategies for crop protection
Authors: Dong Ganggang , Fan Zaifeng
Published: February 2024

Global agriculture and food security are encountering unprecedented challenges from both the ever-growing population and rapidly changing climate conditions. CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing technology has revolutionized plant functional genetic research and precision crop breeding with robustness, high target specificity and programmability. Furthermore, numerous emerging biotechnologies based on the CRISPR/Cas platform provide the opportunity to create new crop germplasms with durable resistance against disease or insect pests, herbicide tolerance, and other stress-tolerant improvements, reshaping crop protection to increase agricultural resilience and sustainability. In this review, we briefly describe the CRISPR/Cas toolbox, including base editing, prime editing, compact genome manipulation, transcriptional regulation and epigenetic editing, and then overview the most important applications of CRISPR/Cas-mediated crop genetic improvement, highlighting crop protection-based stress resistance engineering. In addition, we enumerate global regulations on genome-edited crops. Finally, we discuss some bottlenecks facing this cutting-edge technology and infinite possibilities for the future.
Reconstructing Empedocles' Thought
Authors: Ferella Chiara
Published: February 2024

To understand Empedocles' thought, one must view his work as a unified whole of religion and physics. Only a few interpreters, however, recognise rebirth as a positive doctrine within Empedocles' physics and attempt to reconcile its details with the cosmological account. This study shows how rebirth underlies Empedocles' cosmic system, being a structuring principle of his physics. It reconstructs the proem to his physical poem and then shows that claims to disembodied existence, individual identity and personal survival of death(s) prove central to his physics; that knowledge of the cosmos is the path to escape rebirth; that purifications are essential to comprehending the world and changing one's being, and that the cosmic cycle, with its ethical import, is the ideal backdrop for Empedocles' doctrine of rebirth. This title is part of the Flip it Open Programme and may also be available Open Access. Check our website Cambridge Core for details.
The Truth About Energy
Authors: White John K.
Published: February 2024

The transition to renewable energy is vital and fast-paced, but how do we choose which technologies to drive this energy transition? This timely book provides everyone interested in the renewable energy transition with an introduction to and technical foundation for understanding modern energy technology. It traces everyday power generation through history, from the Industrial Revolution to today. It examines the use of wood, coal, oil, natural gas, hydro, and nuclear to produce energy, before discussing renewable energy sources such as biomass, photovoltaics, concentrated solar power, wind, wave, and geothermal. The book examines to what extent and how each technology can contribute to a clean, green infrastructure. The Truth About Energy explains the science and engineering of energy to help everyone understand and compare current and future advances in renewable energy, providing the context to critically examine the different technologies that are competing in a fast-evolving engineering, political, and economic landscape.