bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strength and timing of primary and secondary vortices generated by a rotating plate
Authors: Francescangeli Diego , Mulleners Karen
Published: June 2023

Accurate predictions of how vortices grow, evolve, and separate from aerodynamic objects are desirable for various applications ranging from autonomous aerial vehicles to wind turbines. Here, we present an experimental characterisation of the formation process of vortices created by the rotation of a thin rectangular flat plate. The plate is rapidly accelerated from rest up to a constant rotational velocity that was varied to explore the effect of the Reynolds number on the limit strength and the timing of successively generated vortices at the tip of the plate. The total non-dimensional positive circulation released at the tip of the plate during the entire rotation varies solely as a function of the angular position of the plate. Initially, all this circulation accumulates in a primary or starting vortex until this vortex separates after a constant non-dimensional time for all rotational velocities and different plate dimensions tested. An empirical model of the prediction of the limit strength of the primary vortex based on the constant non-dimensional formation is presented. The limit strength of the primary vortex is independent of the Reynolds number. After the primary vortex separates, a series of smaller secondary vortices form at the tip of the plate. These secondary vortices are discretely released at increasing time intervals. The timing of the release of the secondary vortices and their non-dimensional strength depend on the Reynolds number, and an empirical prediction model is presented.
Size-resolved genomic characterization of fungal bioaerosols with emphasis on the diversity among host-specific pathogenic and non-pathogenic fungal species
Authors: Varghese Emil , Krishnamoorthy Sarayu , TK Hredhya , Kumari Kiran , Bhattacharya B. K. , Kundu S. S. , Goswami Jonali , Yadav Shweta , Verma Rama Shanker , R Ravikrishna , Gunthe Sachin S.
Published: June 2023

Dispersion and atmospheric transport of fungal bioaerosols help fungal migration and colonization worldwide. The particle size of fungal propagules mainly controls this and influences the taxonomic composition of fungal bioaerosols in a region. The study reports the size-resolved genomic characterization of the pathogenic and non-pathogenic fungal bioaerosols found in the Indian subcontinent. Scanning Electron Microscope images and results from size-resolved DNA analysis using the next-generation sequencing (NGS) method inferred the presence of unicellular and multi-cellular spores and large fungal fragments in the bioaerosols. Further investigations inferred the presence of 67 crop pathogenic fungal OTUs capable of causing lethal crop diseases threatening the country’s food security and agricultural economy. Many other pathogenic fungal species, which could affect plants (plants excluding the crops), humans, and insects were also found in the bioaerosols. About 176 non-pathogenic OTUs inferred the presence of some beneficial fungal species in bioaerosols. Community diversity and similarities shared by each pathogenic and non-pathogenic category implied that the pathogenic fungal categories shared many OTUs within the categories, compared to the non-pathogenic fungal categories, explicitly explaining the evolution potential of pathogenic fungal species to infect a broad host range. Such studies on bioaerosol characterization based on host-pathogen interactions help to predict pathogenic fungal invasions and help the government to ensure biosecurity.
Effects of seasonal and diel variations in thermal stratification on phytoplankton in a regulated river
Authors: Jung Eunsong , Joo Gea-Jae , Kim Hyo Gyeom , Kim Dong-Kyun , Kim Hyun-Woo
Published: June 2023

Thermal stratification in lotic systems has occurred globally and more frequently in recent decades due to global warming and artificial river modification, often with negative ecological effects. However, studies on river stratification have been restricted to rivers below dams or reservoirs affected by their water release and lacked examination of diel stratification and its impact on phytoplankton, in particular. In the present study, we assessed the degree of thermal stratification, its environmental drivers, and the response of water quality and phytoplankton community against stratification in the mid-lower reach of the Nakdong River, whose morphology has been highly modified, including the construction of eight weirs. We implemented vertical temperature profiling at three study sites, both seasonally and diurnally. Then, we calculated three stratification indices: relative water column stability, Schmidt stability, and maximum temperature gradient. Three indices for assessing the degree of stratification showed that most sites experienced diel stratification during summer. Principal component analysis showed that stratification significantly led to seasonal and diel variations in the water environment. Solar radiation and air temperature were positive controllers, while a negative controller (in this case, the river flow rate) existed only for diel variation in the stratification. Higher abundance and surface cell accumulation of cyanobacteria Microcystis were observed at the stratified sites, and the diel variations in its biomass (chlorophyll a) in the surface water were primarily associated with the stratification indices instead of with other temperature and nutrient variables. Overall, the results suggest that the river has summer stratification, which is involved in amplifying cyanobacterial bloom intensity. Without a suppressing factor, summer stratification is expected to be recurrent in the river, and thus mitigating the developed stratification is needed by promptly regulating the river flow.
Applying RE-AIM to examine the impact of an implementation facilitation package to scale up a program for Veterans with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Portillo Edward C. , Maurer Martha A. , Kettner Jordyn T. , Bhardwaj Sonia D. , Zhang Ziting , Sedgwick Cassie , Gilson Aaron M. , Stone Jamie A. , Jacobson Nora , Hennessy-Garza Rose , Will Sarah , McFarland M. Shawn , Ourth Heather , Chui Michelle A.
Published: June 2023

Background
U.S. Veterans are four-times more likely to be diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) compared to the civilian population with no care model that consistently improves Veteran outcomes when scaled. COPD Coordinated Access to Reduce Exacerbations (CARE) is a care bundle intended to improve the delivery of evidence-based practices to Veterans. To address challenges to scaling this program in the Veterans’ Health Administration (VA), the COPD CARE Academy (Academy), an implementation facilitation package comprised of four implementation strategies was designed and implemented.
Methods
This evaluation utilized a mixed-methods approach to assess the impact of the Academy’s implementation strategies on the RE-AIM framework implementation outcomes and the extent to which they were effective at increasing clinicians’ perceived capability to implement COPD CARE. A survey was administered one week after Academy participation and a semi-structured interview conducted eight to 12 months later. Descriptive statistics were calculated for quantitative items and thematic analysis was used to analyze open-ended items.
Results
Thirty-six clinicians from 13 VA medical centers (VAMCs) participated in the Academy in 2020 and 2021 and 264 front-line clinicians completed COPD CARE training. Adoption of the Academy was indicated by high rates of Academy completion (97%), session attendance (90%), and high utilization of Academy resources. Clinicians reported the Academy to be acceptable and appropriate as an implementation package and clinicians from 92% of VAMCs reported long-term utilization of Academy resources. Effectiveness of the Academy was represented by clinicians’ significant increases (p < 0.05) in their capability to complete ten implementation tasks after Academy participation.
Conclusions
This evaluation found that the use of implementation facilitation paired with additional strategies seemed to demonstrate positive implementation outcomes across all RE-AIM domains and identified areas for potential improvement. Future assessments are needed to explore post-academy resources that would help VAMCs to strategize localized approaches to overcome barriers.
5 years leaching experiments to evaluate a modified bauxite residue. Part 2: Remediation of sulfidic mine tailings
Authors: Merdy Patricia , Parker Alexandre , Chen Chen , Hennebert Pierre
Published: June 2023

ALTEO company produces approximately 300,000 tons per year of bauxite residue washed and dried in a press filter to give Bauxaline®, after extraction of the alumina. The study explored different ways of recovery and re-use for this residue, namely transformation into a vegetated soil, acid mine drainage depollution, and sulfide-mine tailings remediation. The Bauxaline® was so transformed into modified bauxite residue (MBR), with reduced alkalinity, salinity and sodicity, as described in part 1. The net acid generation potential of two mine tailings with 1 mole H+/kg (1.5% sulfide) and is 3.3 mole H+/kg (5.3% sulfide), respectively, were counterbalanced by the acid neutralising capacity of 10% MBR or 10% MBR plus limestone, or by limestone only, on the scale of 40 liters lysimeters. Six lysimeters were monitored for 5-years, to assess long-term emissions from treated materials. Vegetation was tested on various conditions and its impact on emission was evaluated. The emissions of sulfidic mine tailings treated with MBR and limestone were very low. The sulfidic mine tailings with limestone only showed some peaks of emission, probably due to coating of the calcite grain by ferric oxide, impeding contact of percolating water with the calcite. Vegetation grew in the treated tailings. This study demonstrated that elements of sulfidic mine tailings can be immobilised temporarily by the alkalinity of the limestone (reduction factor of the emissions of elements of 300 and 40 for the two mine tailings, respectively), but that alkalinity (of limestone and MBR), and the aluminium and ferric oxides (of MBR) are more effective and necessary for long-term immobilisation (reduction factor of 300 and 900, respectively).
Genetic Risk Assessment of Degenerative Eye Disease (GRADE): Design of a prospective assessment of polygenic risk scores to predict diagnosis of glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration.
Authors: Hollitt Georgie , Qassim Ayub , Thomson Daniel , Schmidt Joshua , Nguyen Thi Thi , Landers John , MacGregor Stuart , Siggs Owen , Souzeau Emmanuelle , Craig Jamie
Published: June 2023

Background: Glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) account for a substantial portion of global blindness. Both conditions are highly heritable, with recognised monogenic and polygenic inheritance patterns. Current screening guidelines lack decisive recommendations. Polygenic risk scores (PRS) allow for cost-effective broad population risk stratification for these conditions. The predictive potential of PRS could facilitate earlier diagnosis and treatment, and prevent unnecessary vision loss.
Methods: The Genetic Risk Assessment of Degenerative Eye disease (GRADE) study is a prospective study designed to generate high-quality evidence about the feasibility of PRS to stratify individuals from the general population, enabling identification of those at highest risk of developing glaucoma or AMD. The targeted recruitment is 1000 individuals aged over 50 years, from which blood or saliva samples will be used for genotyping and an individual PRS for glaucoma and AMD will be derived. Individuals with PRS values in the bottom decile (n=100), top decile (n=100) and middle 80% (n=100) for both glaucoma and AMD will undergo a detailed eye examination for glaucoma and/or AMD.
Discussion: The primary objective will be to compare the prevalence of glaucoma and AMD cases between low, intermediate, and high PRS risk groups. We expect to find a higher prevalence of both diseases in the high PRS risk group, as compared to the middle and low risk groups. This prospective study will assess the clinical validity of a PRS for glaucoma and AMD in the general Australian population. Positive findings will support the implementation of PRS into clinical practice.
Unreduced spore formation on the chimera pinnule induced in artificially produced haploid Athyrium niponicum
Authors: Kawakami Suzue M , Kawakami Shogo
Published: June 2023

Haploid sporophytes of Athyrium niponicum with 2n = 40, were produced artificially by induced apogamy in vitro for the first time. They were subsequently transplanted into pots and two of them have been cultivating for the investigation of sporogenesis and/or chimera induction of haploid sporophytes for more than 20 years since 2001. Haploid A. niponicum were sterile, however, an abnormal chimera pinnule was induced in the frond of one haploid plant and many sporangia with spores were produced on the pinnule in 2021. Approximately 32 spores per one sporangium were produced and they were almost same in size. Of 20 gametophytes arising from spores, five induced sporophytes with 2n = 40. The ploidy levels between gametophytes and sporophytes produced were the same. Our study demonstrated that unreduced spores x = 40 are produced regularly on the chimera pinnule in haploid A. niponicum. It might consider from the results that the sporogenesis of unreduced spores in Braithwaite scheme occurs spontaneously by any gene mutation in a cell of the sporophyte with univalents and the unreduced spore formation might occur similarly by any gene mutation in the sterile triploid ferns with univalents. Our study is very important to know the origin of apogamous triploid hybrid ferns of the ABC type.
Hospital length of stay and readmission after elective surgery: a comparison of current and former smokers with non-smokers
Authors: Arena Gina , Cumming Craig , Lizama Natalia , Mace Hamish , Preen David
Published: June 2023

Background
The purpose of this study was to investigate differences between non-smokers, ex-smokers and current smokers in hospital length of stay (LOS), readmission (seven and 28 days) and cost of readmission for patients admitted for elective surgery.
Methods
A retrospective cohort study of administrative inpatient data from 24, 818 patients admitted to seven metropolitan hospitals in Western Australia between 1 July 2016 and 30 June 2019 for multiday elective surgery was conducted. Data included smoking status, LOS, procedure type, age, sex and Indigenous status. LOS for smoking status was compared using multivariable negative binomial regression. Odds of readmission were compared for non-smokers and both ex-smokers and current smokers using separate multivariable logistic regression models.
Results
Mean LOS for non-smokers (4.7 days, SD = 5.7) was significantly lower than both ex-smokers (6.2 days SD 7.9) and current smokers (6.1 days, SD = 8.2). Compared to non-smokers, current smokers and ex-smokers had significantly higher odds of readmission within seven (OR = 1.29; 95% CI: 1.13, 1.47, and OR = 1.37; 95% CI: 1.19, 1.59, respectively) and 28 days (OR = 1.35; 95% CI: 1.23, 1.49, and OR = 1.53; 95% CI: 1.39, 1.69, respectively) of discharge. The cost of readmission for seven and 28-day readmission was significantly higher for current smokers compared to non-smokers (RR = 1.52; 95% CI: 1.1.6, 2.0; RR = 1.39; 95% CI: 1.18, 1.65, respectively).
Conclusion
Among patients admitted for elective surgery, hospital LOS, readmission risk and readmission costs were all higher for smokers compared with non-smokers. The findings indicate that provision of smoking cessation treatment for adults undergoing elective surgery is likely to produce multiple benefits.
Effects of Pole Dance on Mental Wellbeing and the Sexual Self-concept—A Pilot Randomized-controlled Trial
Authors: Pfeiffer Jalda Lena , Sowitzki Setia Kati , Schäfer Thomas , Euteneuer Frank
Published: June 2023

Background
The present pilot randomized controlled trial examined psychological and psychosexual effects of pole dancing.
Methods
Fifty women were randomized to an eight-weeks pole dancing program or waitlist. The primary outcome was global mental wellbeing. Secondary outcomes included several dimensions of the sexual self-concept, as well as body appreciation and global self-esteem.
Results
Compared to waitlist, the pole dance group showed an increase in mental wellbeing and improvements in sexual self-efficacy, sexual anxiety, sexual self-esteem, and body appreciation.
Conclusions
Pole dancing may have broad psychological effects on both overall mental wellbeing and important domains of the sexual self-concept.
Replicating programmed colloidal sequences
Authors: Kesteren Steven van , Diethelm Pascal , Isa Lucio
Published: June 2023

Nature uses replication to amplify the information necessary for the intricate structures vital for life. Despite some successes with pure nucleotide structures [1–5], constructing synthetic microscale systems capable of replication remains largely out of reach [6]. Here we show a functioning strategy for microscale replication using DNA-coated colloids. By positioning DNA-functionalized colloids through capillary assembly [7] and embedding them into a polymer layer, we create programmable
sequences of patchy particles that act as a primer and offer precise binding of complementary particles from suspension. The strings of complementary colloids are crosslinked, released from the primer, and purified via flow cytometric sorting, to achieve a purity of up to 81% of replicated sequences. We demonstrate the replication of strings of up to five colloids, non-linear shapes, and using particles of different sizes and materials. Furthermore, we propose a strategy to replicate a second generation of sequences with the vision for exponential self-replication.
Hidden Curriculum Upgrade in Nursing and Medical Education: A Scoping Review
Authors: Hosseini Amin , Ghasemi Elham , Nasrabadi Alireza Nikbakht , Sayadi Leila
Published: June 2023

Background The importance of hidden curriculum (HC) cannot be neglected in education. Despite much research in the field, there have been limited studies on HC upgrade in nursing and medical education. This scoping review aimed to determine the scope of previously published studies on enhancing the HC in nursing and medical education. Method PubMed, EBSCO/Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, and Proquest and Persian-language databases of Magiran and SID were searched in January 2023 without a time filter. According to the PRISMA flow diagram, two independent reviewers selected the records that fit the inclusion and exclusion criteria via title and abstract screening. Next, the reviewers studied the full texts of the related articles. The data extracted from the selected articles were tabulated and ultimately synthesized. Findings: Out of the eight examined studies, published from 2017 to 2022, only one was in the field of nursing and seven were in medicine. The central strategies were implementing new curricula to replace the previous ones, utilizing team-based clinical clerkship, proposing a HC upgrade model, holding a case-based faculty development workshop, holding longitudinal and comprehensive educational courses, and incorporating an educational activity into a small group program. Conclusion Training students and faculty members on the topic of HC, implementing new curricula, utilizing team-based clerkship, and using comprehensive models were among the HC upgrade strategies. Focusing on upgrading the learning environment, particularly the clinical settings, can also be helpful in HC upgrade.
Imaging study of coccygeal morphology in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Zhang Haoyang , Guo Shaoqing , Ju Chenhao , chen Nisang , Li Xiaoming , Lv Lijiang , Li Shuailin , Pan Yingsen , Fan Binghua , Ye xin , Ying Xiaoming
Published: June 2023

Objective
To observe the coccygeal morphology in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and the differences among different types of scoliosis.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was performed on 268 patients who received full-length anteroposterior and lateral spine radiographs in the third affiliated hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University from January 2018 to December 2022. They were divided into normal group with 135 cases and AIS group with 133 cases. Postacchini coccygeal radiological classification method modified by Nathan was used to observe and compare the sagittal plane coccygeal morphology in the two groups. The correlations between coccygeal morphology in sagittal plane and gender, scoliosis severity, scoliotic segments were analyzed too.
Results
There were the highest percentage (50.4%) of Type I and the lowest (5.2%) proportion of Type V in normal group and the highest percentage (33.1%) of Type I and the lowest (2.2%) proportion of Type V in AIS group. The difference in coccygeal morphology was significant between normal group and AIS group (P = 0.006). There were no significant differences in coccygeal morphology between mild and moderate scoliosis (P = 0.489), between male and female (P = 0.812 in normal group, P = 0.287 in AIS group), or among thoracic, thoracolumbar and lumbar scoliosis (P = 0.129). There was a significant correlation between coccygeal morphology and scoliosis (P = 0.049).
Conclusions
Coccygeal morphology in mild and moderate AIS patients is significantly different from that in normal adolescents. The proportion of coccygeal type I is significantly higher in normal children than in AIS patients, while the proportion of coccygeal type II and type III is significantly lower in normal children. There were some differences in coccygeal morphology between mild and moderate scoliosis, and among different segmental scoliosis, but they were not significant. There was a significant correlation between coccygeal morphology and scoliosis, but the correlations between coccygeal morphology and gender, scoliosis severity, scoliotic segments were non-significant.
Prokaryotic Expression, Antibody Preparation of TLR8 in Bactrian Camel (Camelus bactrianus) and Its Distribution with Age in the Spleen
Authors: Fang Ying-Dong , Liu Jing-Yu , Xie Fei , Liu Li-Ping , Zeng Wei-Wei , Wang Wen-Hui
Published: June 2023

Background
Toll-like receptor 8 (TLR8) can recognize special pathogen-associated molecular patterns and exert multiple immunological functions by activating signaling cascades. However, the precise characteristics and age-related changes of TLR8 in the spleen of Bactrian camels have not been reported. The aim of this study was to prepare rabbit anti-Bactrian camel TLR8 polyclonal antibody and elucidate distribution of TLR8 in the spleen of Bactrian camels of different ages. In this study, the pET-28a-TLR8 recombinant plasmid was firstly constructed, and the TLR8 recombinant protein was obtained by prokaryotic expression. Then, the TLR8 polyclonal antibody was prepared by immunizing rabbits with purified protein. Finally, Twelve Alashan Bactrian camels were divided into four groups: young (1–2 years), pubertal (3–5 years), middle-aged (6–16 years) and old (17–20 years). The distribution characteristics and age-related changes of TLR8 in the spleen were observed and analyzed using immunohistochemcal techniques.
Results
The results showed that the TLR8 recombinant protein was expressed in the form of inclusion body with a size of 52 kDa, and the optimal induction condition was 0.3 mmol·L-1 IPTG induced for 8 h. The titer of the prepared antibody was 1: 32 000, and the antibody could specifically bind to TLR8 recombinant protein. The distribution of TLR8 positive cells was similar in the spleen of Bactrian camels of different ages, all of which were mainly scattered in the periarterial lymphatic sheath of the white pulp, marginal zone and red pulp. TLR8 positive cell type was mainly macrophages, but also expressed in neutrophils and dendritic cells. Statistical results showed that the distribution density of TLR8 positive cells in different spleen regions at all age groups from high to low was the red pulp, marginal zone and white pulp, and there were significant differences between different regions (p < 0.05). The distribution density in the marginal zone and red pulp of the spleen showed similar changes with age, with a trend of first increasing and then decreasing from young to old. With the aging of the camels, the distribution density in each region of the spleen decreased significantly (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
The results confirmed that the rabbit anti-bactrian camel TLR8 polyclonal antibody with good specificity was successfully prepared, and TLR8 positive cells were mainly distributed in the red pulp and marginal zone of the spleen, suggesting that these two areas play an important role in innate immune response of the spleen. The aging could significantly decrease the density of positive cells, but had no impact on the scattered characteristics. These findings will provide support for the further studies on the immunomorphology and immunosenescence of the spleen of Bactrian camels.
Electromagnetic field exposure affects the calling song, phonotaxis, and level of biogenic amines in crickets
Authors: Wyszkowska Joanna , Kobak Jarosław , Aonuma Hitoshi
Published: June 2023

Electromagnetic field (EMF) is ubiquitous in the environment, constituting a well-known, but poorly understood stressor. Few studies have been conducted on insect responses to EMF, although they are an excellent experimental model and are of great ecological importance. In our work, we tested the effects of EMF (50 Hz, 7 mT) on the cricketGryllus bimaculatus: the male calling song pattern, female mate choice and levels of biogenic amines in the brain. Exposure of males to EMF modified the number and period of chips in their calling song, but not the sound frequency. Aged (3-weeks-old) females were attracted to both natural and EMF-modified male signals, whereas young (1-week-old, virgin) females responded only to the modified signal, suggesting its higher attractance. A stress response of males to EMF may be responsible for the change in the calling song, as suggested by changes in the amine levels in their brains (an increase in dopamine, tyrosine, and serotonin concentration and a decrease in octopamine level). These findings indicate thatG. bimaculatusresponds to EMF like to stressful conditions, which may change the condition and fitness of exposed individuals, disrupt mate selection and, in consequence, affect the species existence.
Discovery of novel JAK1 inhibitors through combining machine learning, structure-based pharmacophore modeling and bio-evaluation
Authors: Wang Zixiao , Sun Lili , Xu Yu , Liang Peida , Xu Kaiyan , Huang Jing
Published: June 2023

Background
Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) plays a critical role in most cytokine-mediated inflammatory, autoimmune responses and various cancers via the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. Inhibition of JAK1 is therefore an attractive therapeutic strategy for several diseases. Recently, high-performance machine learning techniques have been increasingly applied in virtual screening to develop new kinase inhibitors. Our study aimed to develop a novel layered virtual screening method based on machine learning (ML) and pharmacophore models to identify the potential JAK1 inhibitors.
Methods
Firstly, we constructed a high-quality dataset comprising 3834 JAK1 inhibitors and 12230 decoys, followed by established a series of classification models based on a combination of three molecular descriptors and six ML algorithms. To further screen potential compounds, we constructed several pharmacophore models based on Hiphop and receptor-ligand algorithms. We then used molecular docking to filter the recognized compounds. Finally, the binding stability and enzyme inhibition activity of the identified compounds were assessed by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and in vitro enzyme activity tests.
Results
The best performance ML model DNN-ECFP4 and two pharmacophore models Hiphop3 and 6TPF 08 were utilized to screen the ZINC database. A total of 13 potentially active compounds were screened and the MD results demonstrated that all of the above molecules could bind with JAK1 stably in dynamic conditions. Among the shortlisted compounds, the four purchasable compounds demonstrated significant kinase inhibition activity, with Z-10 being the most active (IC50 = 194.9 nM).
Conclusion
The current study provides an efficient and accurate integrated model. The hit compounds were promising candidates for the further development of novel JAK1 inhibitors.
Adaptive designs were primarily used but inadequately reported in early phase drug trials
Authors: Wang Yuning , Yao Minghong , Liu Jiali , Liu Yanmei , Ma Yu , Luo Xiaochao , Mei Fan , Xiang Hunong , Zou Kang , Li Ling , Sun Xin
Published: June 2023

Background
Faced with the high costs and low success rates of clinical trials, researchers are increasingly applying adaptive designs to speed up the development of new drugs. However, the application of adaptive design to drug randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and whether the reporting is adequate are unclear. Thus, this study aimed to summarize the epidemiological characteristics of the relevant trials and assess their reporting quality by the Adaptive designs CONSORT Extension (ACE) checklist.
Methods
We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and ClinicalTrials.gov from inception to January 2020. We included drug RCTs that explicitly claimed to be adaptive trials or used any type of adaptative design. We extracted the epidemiological characteristics of included studies to summarize their adaptive design application. We assessed the reporting quality of the trials by Adaptive designs CONSORT Extension (ACE) checklist. Univariable and multivariable linear regression models were used to the association of four prespecified factors with the quality of reporting.
Results
Our survey included 108 adaptive trials. We found that adaptive design has been increasingly applied over the years, and was commonly used in phase II trials (n = 45, 41.7%). The primary reasons for using adaptive design were to speed the trial and facilitate decision-making (n = 24, 22.2%), maximize the benefit of participants (n = 21, 19.4%), and reduce the total sample size (n = 15, 13.9%). Group sequential design (n = 63, 58.3%) was the most frequently applied method, followed by adaptive randomization design (n = 26, 24.1%), and adaptive dose-finding design (n = 24, 22.2%). The proportion of adherence to the ACE checklist of 26 topics ranged from 7.4–99.1%, with eight topics being adequately reported (i.e., level of adherence ≥ 80%), and eight others being poorly reported (i.e., level of adherence ≤ 30%). In addition, among the seven items specific for adaptive trials, three were poorly reported: accessibility to statistical analysis plan (n = 8, 7.4%), measures for confidentiality (n = 14, 13.0%), and assessments of similarity between interim stages (n = 25, 23.1%). The mean score of the ACE checklist was 13.9 (standard deviation [SD], 3.5) out of 26. According to our multivariable regression analysis, the trials published more recently (estimated β = 0.14, P < 0.01) and the multicenter trials (estimated β = 2.22, P < 0.01) were associated with better reporting.
Conclusion
Adaptive design has shown an increasing use over the years, and was primarily applied to early phase drug trials. However, the reporting quality of adaptive trials is suboptimal, and substantial efforts are needed to improve the reporting.
Adipocyte PI3K links adipostasis with basal insulin secretion through an adipoincretin effect
Authors: Becattini Barbara , Molinaro Angela , Henricsson Marcus , Boren Jan , Solinas Giovanni
Published: June 2023

Inhibitors of insulin-PI3K signaling potently induce insulin secretion in-vivo, demonstrating that insulin secretion is governed by feedback control. Resolving the mechanism of this feedback is necessary to understand hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance and to develop optimal PI3K-targeted therapies. Adipose tissue-specific knockout mice for the insulin receptor, or AKT1 and AKT2, are severely lipodystrophic. Thereby, the role of adipocyte insulin signaling in the feedback control of insulin secretion remains unknown. To investigate insulin-PI3K signaling in the adipocyte in vivo, we generated adipocyte-specific PI3Ka knockout mice (PI3KaAdQ). PI3KaAdQ mice and PI3KaF/F control mice showed similar adiposity, indicating compensation from another PI3K activity. PI3Kb-selective inhibitors dumped AKT phosphorylation, specifically in the adipocytes of PI3KaAdQ mice. The PI3Kb-selective inhibitor GSK2636771 markedly increased serum FFA and insulin secretion in PI3KaAdQ mice but not in PI3KaF/F mice, demonstrating that insulin secretion is governed by adipocyte PI3K, a phenomenon that we name the adipoincretin effect. The adipoincretin effect can be induced in mice fasted overnight with decreasing glycemia. The effects of adipocyte-specific PI3K inhibition on insulin secretion and serum FFA could be partly dissociated by cotreating PI3KaAdQ mice with GSK2636771 and the lipolysis inhibitor nicotinic acid. The adipoincretin effect was associated with reduced plasma branched-chain amino acids, reduced serum leptin, and increased 3-hydroxybutyrylcarnitine. These results demonstrate that baseline insulin secretion and lipolysis are coregulated by adipocyte PI3K signaling to control adipostasis during fasting through an adipoincretin effect.
Entomological longitudinal surveys in two contrasted eco-climatic settings in Cameroon reveal a high malaria transmission from Anopheles funestus associated with GSTe2 metabolic resistance
Authors: F. Brice Natchema S. , Tchouakui Magellan , Menze Benjamin D. , Mugenzi Leon M. J. , Fofie Derrick , Nguifo-Nguete Daniel , Nkengazong Lucia , Tombi Jeannette , Wondji Charles S.
Published: June 2023

Background
The impact of metabolic resistance to insecticide on malaria transmission remains poorly characterised notably through application of entomological parameters. The lack of resistance markers has been one of the limiting factors preventing robust assessment of such impact. To this end, the present study sought to investigate how L119F-Gste2 metabolic gene influences entomological parameters underpinning mosquitos’ propensity to transmit Plasmodium species.
Methods
Longitudinal studies were carried out in Mibellon and Elende, two different eco-climatic settings in Cameroon and mosquitoes were collected using Human Landing Catch (HLC), Centre for Disease Control Light Trap (CDC-LT) and Pyrethrum Spray Catch (PSC) technics. Plasmodium sporozoite parasites were detected by TaqMan and Nested PCR, and blood meal origin with ELISA. The allele-specific PCR (AS-PCR) method was used to genotype the L119F-GSTe2 marker and association with malaria transmission was established by comparing key transmission parameters such as the Entomologic Inoculation Rate (EIR) between individuals with different L119F-GSTe2 genotypes.
Results
An. funestus s.l was the predominant malaria vector collected during the entomological survey in both sites (86.6% and 96.4% in Elende and Mibellon respectively) followed by An. gambiae s.l (7.5% and 2.4%). Sporozoite infection rates were very high in both collection sites (8.7% and 11% respectively in Elende and Mibellon). An. funestus s.s exhibited a very high entomological inoculation rate (EIR) (66 ib/h/month and 792 ib/h/year) and was responsible for 98.6% of all malaria transmission events occurring in both sites. Human Blood Index was also high in both locations (HBI = 94%). An. funestus s.s. mosquitoes with both 119F/F (RR) and L119F (RS) genotypes had a significantly higher transmission intensity than their susceptible L/L119 (SS) counterparts (IRR = 2.2, 95%CI (1.1–5.2), p = 0.03; IRR = 2.5, 95% CI (1.2–5.8), p = 0.01 respectively).
Conclusion
This study highlights the major role that An. funestus s.s plays in malaria transmission in Cameroon with an aggravation from GSTe2-based metabolic resistance.
Shear mechanical response and deformation failure of F-type socket joint in a rectangular pipe jacking tunnel under different geologic conditions
Authors: Xu Youjun , Zhao Zhengrong , Zhang Chao , Zhang Xu , Pang Yuekui
Published: June 2023

The shear mechanical properties of F-type socket joints in rectangular pipe jacking tunnels are currently unknown. To investigate the shear mechanical response and deformation failure of the F-type socket joint in rectangular pipe jacking tunnels under different foundation coefficients, a laboratory joint test and numerical simulation method were used, considering the structural features of the joint. The results showed that during shear deformation of pipe sections, the intermediate pipe is damaged centrosymmetrically. The deformation process of a joint subjected to shear consists of four stages: gap closure, elastic growth, shear strengthening, and yield failure. The ultimate shear capacity of the joint increases by 25–34% for every 3 mm increase in the steel ring thickness. The chamfer yield damage area comprises approximately 15% of the steel ring, while the concrete damage area comprises approximately 40%. The failure characteristics of the joint are primarily manifested as drum and warp of the steel ring or cracking of the weld, and the concrete at the joint is crushed and shows evidence of cracks.
Blended Smartphone Intervention for Patients in Opioid Maintenance Treatment in Iran: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Boumparis Nikolaos , Noroozi Alireza , Naghizadeh Eisa , Meyer Andreas , Wenger Andreas , Rahimi-Movaghar Afarin , Schaub Michael P.
Published: June 2023

Background
The pattern of substance use in Iran is characterized by a high prevalence of opioid use and opioid use disorder (OUD). Although opioid maintenance therapy (OMT) has been introduced in Iran, approximately 50% of people with opioid use disorder remain unreached. Moreover, psychosocial treatment of OUD and common mental health symptoms during OMT is limited. Digital interventions have been shown to improve psychological distress, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. In addition, providing psychoeducation and risk reduction counseling to prevent communicable diseases like HIV and infectious hepatitis is common via the Internet. However, despite these promising advances, no smartphone intervention in OMT has been investigated for the treatment of OUD and common comorbid mental health symptoms.
Objective
We examine the effectiveness of adding a blended smartphone intervention based on community reinforcement approach, motivational interviewing- and cognitive behavioral therapy compared to OMT as usual that aims to improve OMT outcomes and addresses common mental health symptoms in OMT patients in Iran.
Method
Adults with opioid dependence entering 8 treatment centers in Tehran, Iran will be randomly assigned to receive either OMT plus a smartphone intervention or OMT as usual. The primary outcomes will be the percentage of negative urine tests for illicit, non-prescribed use of opioids (opium, heroin, tramadol) and treatment retention. Secondary outcomes will include the longest period of abstinence from the illicit, non-prescribed use of opioids (opium, heroin, and tramadol) confirmed by urine samples, changes in communicable disease risk-taking behaviors, changes in stress and common mental health symptoms, and client satisfaction. Data analysis will follow the intention-to-treat principle and employ (generalized) linear mixed models.
Discussion
This study will provide substantial knowledge for designing effective blended interventions for OUD. Moreover, it will investigate if treatment retention and OMT-related outcomes and common mental health symptoms can be improved by adding a smartphone intervention to OMT.
Trial Registration
https://en.irct.ir/trial/53578
Engineering of Nickel, Cobalt Oxides and Nickel/Cobalt Binary Oxides by Electrodeposition and Application as Binder Free Electrodes in Supercapacitors
Authors: Abbas Qaisar , Khurshid Hafsa , Yoosuf Rahana , Lawrence Jonathan , Issa Bashar A , Abdelkareem Mohammad Ali , Olabi Abdul Ghani
Published: June 2023

Cobalt oxide, nickel oxide and cobalt/nickel binary oxides were synthesised by electrodeposition. To fine tune composition of CoNi alloys, growth parameters including voltage, electrolyte pH/concentration and deposition time were varied. These produced nanomaterials were used as binder free electrodes in supercapacitor cells and tested using three electrode setup in 2M KOH aqueous electrolyte. Cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge/discharge were used at different scan rates (5-100mV/s) and current densities (1-10A/g) respectively to evaluate the capacitive performance. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was used to analyse the resistive behaviour of these electrodes in frequency range of 100kHz to 0.01Hz at applied voltage of 10mV. Binary oxide electrode displayed superior electrochemical performance with the specific capacitance of 176F/g at current density of 1A/g. This hybrid electrode also displayed capacity retention of over 83% after 5,000 charge/discharge cycles. Cell displayed low solution resistance of 0.35Ω along with high energy density of 29Wh/kg at power density of 733W/kg for CoNi composite. The proposed facile approach to synthesise binder free blended metal electrodes can result in enhanced redox activity of pseudocapacitive materials. Consequently, fine tuning of these materials by controlling the cobalt and nickel ratios can assist in broadening their applications in electrochemical energy storage in supercapacitors.
RETRACTED: Determination of Melamine in Dry Milk by New Infrared Spectroscopy Method
Authors: Alahmad Shoeb
Published: June 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Fatty acid analysis reveals variations in the diet of shallow-water spionids (Annelida: Polychaeta: Spionidae)
Authors: Zhukova Natalia
Published: June 2023

Abstract
The fatty acid (FA) composition of spionids co-occurring in shallow-water and occupying various habitats was analyzed to characterize the spectrum and diversity of their food sources and elucidate their feeding habits and trophic relationships. These included free-living and tube-dwelling species, and also opportunistic and specialized shell-borers and their hosts. A plot of principal component analysis (PCA) scores based on the FA compositions of nine spionid species recognized five distinct groups with different feeding strategies and revealed differences not only between the species, but also within the same species from various habitats. The predominance of 20:5n-3, C16 polyunsaturated FAs, and 16:1n-7 in suspension feeders indicated that they feed on diatoms. Benthic dinoflagellates and diatoms, as well as bacteria, constituted a major part in the diet of deposit feeders. On the basis of high 22:6n-3 and 18:1n-9 contents, Dipolydora commensalis was attributed to omnivorous with a predominance of animal dietary input. The selective detritivore Polydora glycymerica relies on a microbial food web. FAs of Laonice aff. cirrata indicated the importance of foraminifera in the diet of this subsurface feeder. Polychaetes were found to have a capability of changing their feeding habits depending on habitat. Specialized shell-borers adapt their feeding habits to the host’s diet. The results obtained provide evidence that these species actually represent several non-overlapping groups characterized by different feeding strategies, which leads to weakening of their competitive relationships. Partitioning of food sources is regarded as one of the main mechanisms explaining the successful coexistence of spionid species.
Gilded Vaterite Optothermal Transport in a Bubble
Authors: Gilad Hod , Barhum Hani , Ushkov Andrey , Machnev Andrey , Ofer Daniel , Bobrovs Vjačeslavs , Ginzburg Pavel
Published: June 2023

Laser beams, capable to control the mechanical motion of micron-scale objects, can serve as a tool, enabling investigations of numerous interaction scenarios under full control. Beyond the pure electromagnetic interactions, giving rise to conventional gradient forces and radiation pressure, environment-induced thermal effects can play a role and, in certain cases, govern the dynamics. Here we demonstrate a thermocapillary Marangoni effect, which is responsible for creating long-range few hundreds of nano-Newton forces, acting on a bubble around a ‘gilded vaterite’ nanoparticle. Decorating calcium carbonate spherulite (the vaterite) with gold nanoseeds allows tuning its optical absorption and, as a result, controlling its temperature in a solution. We demonstrate that keeping a balance between electromagnetic and thermal interactions allows creating of a stable micron-scale bubble around the particle and maintaining its size over time. The bubbles are shown to remain stable over minutes even after the light source is switched off. The bubbles were shown to swim toward laser focus over 400 of micrometer distances across the sample. Optothermal effects, allowing for efficient transport, stable bubble creation, and particle-fluid interaction control, can grant nano-engineered drug delivery capsules with additional functions toward a theragnostic paradigm shift.
Injectable Biocompatible Nanocomposites of Prussian Blue Nanoparticles and Bacterial Cellulose as a Safe and Effective Photothermal Cancer Therapy
Authors: Hong Hwichan , Kim MinKyu , Lee Wooseung , Jeon Miyeon , Lee Chaedong , Kim Hoonsub , Im Hyung-Jun , Piao Yuanzhe
Published: June 2023

Photothermal therapy (PTT) is a novel cancer treatment using a photoabsorber to cause hyperthermia to kill tumors by laser irradiation. Prussian blue nanoparticles (PB NPs) are considered as next-generation photothermal agents due to the facile synthesis and excellent absorption of near-infrared light. Although PB NPs demonstrate remarkable PTT capabilities, their clinical application is limited due to their systemic toxicity. Bacterial cellulose (BC) has been applied to various bio-applications based on its unique properties and biocompatibility. Herein, we design composites with PB NPs and BC as an injectable, highly biocompatible PTT agent (IBC-PB composites). Injectable bacterial cellulose (IBC) is produced through the trituration of BC, with PB NPs synthesized on the IBC surface to prepare IBC-PB composites. IBC-PB composites show in vitro and in vivo photothermal therapeutic effects similar to those of PB NPs but with significantly greater biocompatibility. Specifically, in vitro therapeutic index of IBC-PB composites is 26.5-fold higher than that of PB NPs. Furthermore, unlike PB NPs, IBC-PB composites exhibit no overt toxicity in mice as assessed by blood biochemical analysis and histological images. Hence, it is worth pursuing further research and development of IBC-PB composites as they hold promise as safe and efficacious PTT agents for clinical application.