bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells by Pt/carbon/antimony-doped tin dioxide triple-junction catalyst
Authors: Tsai Du-Cheng , Kuo Bing-Hau , Chen Hung-Pin , Chen Erh-Chiang , Shieu Fuh-Sheng
Published: December 2023

A composite material comprising carbon black and Sb-doped SnO2 (ATO) is employed as a support for a Pt catalyst in a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) to improve the performance of a proton-exchange membrane fuel cell under low-humidity conditions. The effects of Sb-doping on the crystal, structural, and electrochemical characteristics of ATO particles are being examined. In a single cell test, the ratio of Sb in ATO is systematically optimized to improve performance. The distribution of Pt nanoparticles is uniform on carbon black and ATO carrier, forming notable triple-junction points at the interface of carbon black and ATO carrier. This structure thus induces a strong interaction between Pt and ATO, promoting the content of metallic Pt. Compared with a Pt/C catalyst, the best-performing Pt/C–ATO catalyst exhibits superior electrochemical activity, stability, and CO tolerance. The power density of MEA with the Pt/C–ATO catalyst is 15% higher than that of the MEA with the Pt/C catalyst
A unique neuropsychophysiological approach to objectify emotion (dys)regulation in healthy older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Amanzio Martina , Cipriani Giuseppina Elena , Canessa Nicola , Borghesi Francesca , Chirico Alice , Cipresso Pietro
Published: December 2023

The response of older people to the COVID-19 pandemic has attracted much attention as they are at increased risk of adverse outcomes. A longitudinal study has shown that improvement in global cognitive, executive and language functioning in healthy older adults enrolled at the University of the Third Age appears to play a protective role against emotional dysregulation and mood changes during the pandemic. To date, no study has examined emotional dysregulation through COVID-19-related images using facial electromyographic recordings in healthy older adults. Therefore, we aimed to analyze the relationships between zygomaticus and corrugator reactivity, neuropsychological measures, and the affective dimensions of arousal, dominance, and valence. The results showed an unexpected association between higher zygomaticus activity and higher levels of apathy, depression, and anxiety. In contrast, increased contracture of the corrugator was associated with poorer performance on cognitive tests (global cognition, memory, executive functions) and physical status, i.e., walking speed. These results are consistent with the reappraisal of emotional stimuli in response to the challenges of the pandemic. Interestingly, COVID-19-related stimuli triggered the activation of bottom-up affectivity strategies associated with higher mood levels and interacted with top-down factors that play an important role in the dysregulation of cognitive control.
The experience of a tertiary referral center with laparoscopic pyelolithotomy for large renal stones during 18 years
Authors: Kashi Amir Hossein , Simforoosh Nasser , Nouralizadeh Akbar , Ghasemi Seyed Mohammad , Nayebzade Amirhossein , Bonakdar Hashemi Milad , Valipour Reza , Basiri Abbas , Tabibi Ali , Zargar Homayoun , Dadpour Mehdi , Rouientan Hamidreza , Narouie Behzad
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of laparoscopic pyelolithotomy, including its efficacy and feasibility in treatment of large renal stones. All patients who underwent laparoscopic pyelolithotomy operations in a referral center were enrolled from 2003 to 2020. The final analysis included 436 patients. The total stone free rate was 88.3% and the stone-free rate for staghorn/multiple stones versus other types of stones was 81% vs. 91% (P = 0.002). Likewise, the total operation duration was 158 ± 50 and the operation duration for staghorn/multiple stones versus other types of stones was 171 ± 51 min vs. 153 ± 49 min (P < 0.001). The operation duration (169 ± 51 vs. 155 ± 58 vs. 155 ± 42 min) and hospitalization (4.5 ± 2.3 vs. 4.0 ± 2.2 vs. 3.6 ± 1.8) decreased with increasing the surgeons' experience over time. The outcomes of laparoscopic pyelolithotomy for children versus adults versus geriatric patients and in patients with normal versus abnormal kidney anatomy did not reveal statistically significant differences. Laparoscopic pyelolithotomy could be employed as an alternative surgical approach for patients with large kidney stones of any age or with kidney abnormalities provided that appropriate expertise is available to carry out the procedure.
The impact mechanism of ownership change on university innovation
Authors: Gao Panjun , Li Xing , Zhang Guiyang , Qi Yong
Published: December 2023

The mixed-ownership reform of job invention achievements (MOJIA) is an important exploration of China’s sound long-term incentive mechanism for transforming job-related inventions. Based on the data of MOJIA pilot universities and regions from 2012 to 2022, this paper analyzes the relationship and mechanism between MOJIA and university innovation (UI) in China by combining resource dependence theory and institutional theory. The study found that MOJIA has a promotive effect on UI. The findings continue to hold after using parallel trend tests, lagged regressions, alternative UI measures, endogeneity control, and placebo tests. MOJIA can enhance the technology achievement marketability in the regions where universities are located. Moreover, MOJIA can facilitate the technological achievements marketability by improving UI. Heterogeneity analysis found that the lower the administrative level and the university’s social reputation, the stronger the promotion effect of MOJIA on UI. The research in this paper provides implications for further improving MOJIA.
An impedimetric sensor based on molecularly imprinted nanoparticles for the determination of trypsin in artificial matrices – towards point-of-care diagnostics
Authors: Di Masi Sabrina , Costa Marco , Canfarotta Francesco , Guerreiro Antonio , Hartley Alicia , Piletsky Sergey A. , Malitesta Cosimino
Published: December 2023

An impedimetric sensor based on molecularly imprinted nanoparticles was designed for trace sensing of the trypsin protein biomarker in biological fluids.
Theoretical study on electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction over copper with copper-based layered double hydroxides
Authors: Xu Xin-Yu , Guo Jing-Yi , Zhang Wei , Jie Yao , Song Hui-Ting , Lu Hao , Zhang Yi-Fan , Zhao Jia , Hu Chen-Xu , Yan Hong
Published: December 2023

The density functional theory method is used to reveal the electrocatalytic mechanism of CO2 reduction reaction over CuAl-LDH with Cun (n = 1, 2, 4) clusters. The descriptors for C2 product selectivity are presented.
Macrophage-membrane-coated hybrid nanoparticles with self-supplied hydrogen peroxide for enhanced chemodynamic tumor therapy
Authors: Ling Ke , Zhao Zhihao , Wu Renfei , Tao Chengcheng , Liu Sidi , Yu Tianrong , Cao Qinghua , Yan Jun , Ge Tianjin , Shariati Mohsen , Sadeghi Mahdi , Liu Jian
Published: December 2023

Addressing the challenges of chemodynamic therapies (CDTs) relying on Fenton reactions in malignant tumors is an active research area.
Constructing low-cost and high-strength ultra-low-density proppants based on the modification of activated carbon framework with in situ hydrolyzed silane
Authors: Zeng Zhen , Wang Shiqiang , Liu Ermei , Qin Wei , Zhou Yang , Li Zhenyong , Song Yu , Xu Min , Bian Fuli , Ren Xianyan
Published: December 2023

A low-cost type of ultra-low-density proppants, composed of a hard but low-density framework and reinforcing modifier was developed.
Boosting the electrochemical performance with functionalized dry electrodes for practical all-solid-state batteries
Authors: Lee Dongsoo , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: December 2023

A functionalized dry electrode (FDE) incorporating solvate-ionic-liquid-infiltrated ethyl cellulose demonstrates the criticality of the role of the conductive binder for achieving improved electrochemical performance in all-solid-state batteries.
π-d conjugation regulates the cathode/electrolyte interface in all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Zheng Surong , Yu Shiwei , Ullah Zaka , Liu Lei , Chen Ledi , Sun Houliang , Chen Mingliang , Liu Liwei , Li Qi
Published: December 2023

π-d Conjugated coordination between the DHBQ electrode and LLTO-PVDF solid electrolyte stabilizes the contact interface.
Synthesis and characterization of lithium-doped copper zinc tin sulfide (CZTS) thin films
Authors: Chand Md. Maruf , Islam Shariful , Ahmed Mohammad Tanvir , Bashar Muhammad Shahriar , Ahmed Farid
Published: December 2023

The non-toxic nature and remarkable optoelectronic properties of kesterite (Cu2ZnSnS4 and CZTS) make CZTS a potential candidate for solar cell absorber layer material. Since alkali metal doping has shown a performance boost of active layers of solar cells, this work investigates the effects of significant lithium doping on sol-gel-produced CZTS thin films. CZTS- and lithium (Li)-doped CZTS thin films were prepared using the spin coating technique. The variation of structural, morphological, and optical properties of CZTS due to Li-doping has been studied by x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and UV–visible spectroscopy techniques. All the synthesized LixCu2−xZnSnS4 (x = 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6) films showed fine crystallinity with average crystallite sizes of 4.745, 6.013, 6.255, and 6.404 nm, respectively. The average grain size decreases from 0.336 to 0.310 µm via increasing Li concentration. The inclusion of Li increased the bandgap energy ranges from 1.5 to 1.808 eV. The Li0.6Cu1.4ZnSnS4 thin showed the highest absorption coefficient of 3.505 × 104 cm−1 among all the prepared thin films. A high optical conductivity over 1014 s−1 was observed for CZTS, which further increased with an increased Li concentration. The synthesized structures showed enhanced characteristics suitable for solar cell application.
Reconstruction and analysis of surface topography of micro-indented surface texture by chi-square function
Authors: Chen Dongliang , Liu Zhiqi , Zhang Zhiqiang , Wang Wen’an , Wang Huanhuan , Li Lin , Song Jianli
Published: December 2023

During surface texture micro-indentation processing, the texture around the contact area will form protrusions. The morphology of these protrusions can change the actual contact area of the contact surface and affect the functional surface. To accurately describe the morphology of surface texture protrusions during the micro-indentation process, scaled chi-square functions are proposed to fit and further analyze their morphology. By simulation, the surface protrusion curve is generated by the micro-indenter head in different materials and depths. The scaled chi-square function is used to fit the extracted curves, and the fitted n value is used as an important characteristic parameter of the protrusion morphology. The study shows that the morphology of the protrusions is related to the material’s elastic modulus, yield strength, power law hardening exponent, and forming depth. Based on our results, it is convenient to judge the highest position and maximum height of the protrusions. The research findings will aid in the holistic design of micro-indentation surface textures, predicting their morphology, and selecting appropriate processes, while also being relevant for evaluating material performance post-micro-indentation with broad application prospects.
Theoretical modeling of key parameters of wet film in roll coating process of coating panel
Authors: Xie Yafei , Zhao Tong , Liu Kai
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this dissertation is to quantitatively regulate the wet film thickness of coating panels in metal packaging during roll coating, which has not been accomplished in previous studies. The aim of the research is to derive a formula model for the roll coating machine, which is a general-purpose equipment, to provide theoretical support for quantitatively regulating wet film thickness and calculating leveling time. Based on the coating leveling formula studied by Orchard [Appl. Sci. Res. 11, 451 (1963)], combined with the working conditions of the roll coating process, an innovative application of boundary slip theory and Hertzian theory is used to analyze the functional relationship of each parameter in the roll coating process, and to construct a model of wet film leveling time. The process data were obtained from factory equipment. The validation of the formula model refers to the method adopted by Wang and others, who processed experimental fixtures with different wavelengths and crest heights to experimentally validate the model. The average thickness of the wet film and the leveling time are the key to the roller coating process. The average wet film thickness is the key parameter affecting the quality of the product, and the leveling time determines when the wet film enters the dry film process. The wet film thickness mainly depends on the pressure of each roll in the roll coating process. The wet film leveling time model accurately constructs the functional relationship between process parameters, leveling time, and wet film thickness, which can be quantitatively calculated. The leveling time model is experimentally verified to be correct.
Thermal–mechanical–electrical co-simulation of electron gun using finite element method
Authors: Yang Zaichao , Xu Li , Hu Quan , Yin Junhui , Wang Hao , Li Bin
Published: December 2023

As the central component of the traveling wave tube (TWT), the thermal deformation of the electron gun is a critical concern. This paper presents a method for analyzing the electromagnetic characteristics of electron gun after thermal deformation. The method adopts multiple grid acceleration technology. Based on this method, a three-dimensional thermal stress analysis tool called the Thermal Stress Simulator (TSS) is developed. In addition, the TSS can be seamlessly coupled with the Thermal Simulator (TS) and the Electron Optical Simulator (EOS) previously developed by our team to realize the analysis of electromagnetic characteristics changes after thermal deformation and provide support for the reliable design of TWT.
Improvement in spectral range of Sb
2
Se
3 absorption layer on Bi addition
Authors: Sharma Kalpana , Sharma Vineet
Published: December 2023

Antimony selenide (Sb
2
Se
3) is a versatile material used in solar cells. The alteration in the physical properties of Sb
2
Se
3 alloys on Bi addition has been analysed. (Sb
2
Se
3)100-x

Bi

x
(x = 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, and 1.2) system has been studied to examine the structural alterations by computing physical parameters. The increase in parameters, i.e., average coordination number 〈Z〉, total number of constraints per atoms (N

c
), and crosslinking density (D

cl
) reflect an increase in rigidity of the Sb
2
Se
3 on Bi incorporation. The computed band gap decreases on Bi addition, from 1.095 eV to 1.079 eV, indicating an approximate increase in absorption wavelength from 1132.42 nm to 1149.21 nm. An increase in rigidity reflects reduction in defect states decreasing the recombination rate within absorption layer. There are variations in cohesive energy, electronegativity, and average single-bond energy. The study reveals that this composition can be utilized to develop novel solar absorber layer materials.
Influence of phase diffusion on atomic grating in a three-level ladder-type system in lower-level microwave-driven scheme
Authors: Saddique Muhammad , Mehmood Asad , Irfan Muhammad , Qamar Sajid , Qamar Shahid
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we consider a scheme for electromagnetically induced grating (EIG) in a three-level ladder-type system. A microwave field of finite bandwidth making a standing-wave pattern is applied on lower levels. In addition, we have also introduced an indirect pump in our system. A weak probe field is then applied to study the effects of phase diffusion associated with the microwave control field on EIG. It is found that phase diffusion associated with the strong microwave control field strongly affect the diffraction. We have incorporated the effect of different system parameters such as the strength of the microwave field, indirect pumping mechanism, interaction length, and detuning in the weak probe field. Interestingly, the stronger microwave control field retrieves the loss in diffraction intensity caused by the phase diffusion. Our results show that the introduction of detuning in the optical probe field results in the enhancement of the phase grating effect. Furthermore, our results show that an optimized indirect pump field can slightly improve the first-order diffraction intensities both in the absence and presence of phase diffusion.
Compressing the atomic cloud in a matter-wave stripe soliton
Authors: Sekh Golam Ali , Talukdar Benoy
Published: December 2023

We consider an attractive quasi-one dimensional spin-orbit coupled Bose–Einstein condensate (SOC BEC) confined in a periodic potential produced by the combination of linear and nonlinear optical lattices, and study the effects of squeezing a stripe soliton by varying the inter-atomic interaction in the nonlinear lattice. It is observed that the nodes on the soliton arising entirely due to the effect of spin–orbit coupling tend to disappear as we increase the squeezing effect to finally get a stable fundamental soliton. This leads us to conclude that external pressure can reduce the effect of spin–orbit coupling in the SOC BEC and even convert the system to a traditional BEC without spin–orbit coupling. We make use of an information theoretic measure to visualize how does the atomic density distribution in the condensate respond to continual reduction in the spin–orbit coupling effect.
Density functional theory and molecular dynamics simulation of water molecules confined between parallel graphene oxide surfaces using new interaction potentials
Authors: Abbaspour Mohsen , Morsali Ali
Published: December 2023

In this study, the interaction potential of water molecule with a graphene oxide (GO) plate containing OH and O groups has been calculated using the M06-2X/6-31g(d,p) level of theory at different orientations and intermolecular distances and fitted to the Born-Huggins-Meyer (BHM) model. There are good agreements between the calculated and the OPLS-AA and Dreiding models, especially for the GO(O)-H2O interactions. To examine the new computed models, we have used the closer potentials to the OPLS-AA and Dreiding models in the molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. We have calculated several properties using the different obtained interaction potentials including average number of hydrogen bonds per water molecule (〈HB〉) between confined water molecules and between water and GO-surfaces, radial distribution function (RDF), self-diffusion coefficient, and angle distribution function of the confined water molecules between the GO plates. Our results showed good agreements between the OPLS-AA and Dreiding models and some calculated potentials. However, some calculated models showed completely different behavior which discussed in details. According to the results, we concluded that the OH-2 and O1-OH2 models show totally better agreement with the famous force fields than the other calculated potentials. This work provides a simple method for the development of new force fields specifically for these types of systems which are in good agreement with the well-known force fields.
Experimental study of the effect of target composition and heat treatment on the Ag deposit on the adhesion of the surfaces used in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)
Authors: Soleimani Behnam , Kolahdoozan Mojtaba , Salehi Mehdi , Saadat Mohammad , Vahabi Meisam
Published: December 2023

Adhesion force is one of the major factors in MEMS technology specifically during micro assembling via micro grippers. Regarding the light weight of MEMS devices, the contact force between MEMS devices and the microgripper surface causes distinct problems such as sticking the MEMS surface to the microgripper, so the assemble procedure can be affected and microparts not be placed in the right position. so decreasing adhesion force has a significant role in improving micron assembly. Accordingly, in the current research work, the effects of various coating materials, deposition, and annealing temperatures on the surface roughness of microgripper substrate and its morphology are experimentally investigated considering the DC sputtering magnetron method to decrease adhesion force between microgripper substrate and MEMS device. For this purpose, seventeen silicon surfaces were used of which sixteen of them coated and one is non-coated. Deposited substrates can be classified into four groups four of them are deposited with double layers using two kinds of coating materials including Ti/Ag, SiO2/Ag, Ti/Ag-Pd-Cu, and SiO2/Ag-Pd-Cu respectively. After sample deposition, the AFM method was used to measure, the topographic images, the surface roughness, and the adhesion force. Regarding the differences in layers and distinct temperatures, the height and shape of hillocks directly depend on deposition and preheating temperature ranges. So as the deposition and preheating temperature increase, more hillocks grow and the adhesion force is more consequently. to 373 K and 573 K. Additionally, these changes result in changes in adhesion force.
Biomolecule detection using GaAs1−xSbX FET based dielectric modulated label-free biosensor
Authors: Dixit Ankit , Samajdar Dip Prakash , Shukla Rajendra P , Bagga Navjeet , Hossain M Khalid
Published: December 2023

Dielectric Modulated (DM) biosensors are being developed for label-free biosensing based on varying dielectric constants of the cavity region. In this paper, we proposed a GaAs1−xSbx based cylindrical DM biosensor. The chosen device geometry provides enhanced gate control and increases cavity area compared to the planar devices. This bestows larger dwelling space to the biomolecules. In our work, we have investigated the sensing capability of the proposed biosensor for Biotin (k = 2.63), Bacteriophage (k = 6.3), and Gelatin (k = 12); whereas, the proposed study is applicable in all types of biomolecules which are characterized by the dielectric constants. The deviation in the effective oxide thickness (EOT) due to the variation in permittivity of the cavity area modulates the channel conductance and, in turn, ON current and threshold voltages (Vth). Thus, these parameters can be used for analyzing the sensitivity. For the gelatin biomolecule, the maximum computed sensitivity with regard to the OFF to ON current ratio and saturation current is 41.20% and 16.68%, respectively. Further, we also investigated the sensitivity metrics for the charge-carrying biomolecules using trap models employed in TCAD simulations.
Modulation of electrical properties of sputtered Ta2O5 films by variation of RF power and substrate temperature
Authors: Sahoo Kiran K , Pradhan Diana , Ghosh Surya P , Gartia Anurag , Kar Jyoti P
Published: December 2023

Dielectric thin films are important building blocks of microelectronic devices, and hence, research on the development of high-k dielectric thin films has drawn tremendous research interest. In this research, thin films of tantalum oxide (Ta2O5), a high-k dielectric material, are deposited on the Si substrate by the radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering technique. During the deposition of Ta2O5 thin film, the sputtering parameters such as sputtering power and substrate temperature were systematically varied, and post-deposition structural, morphological, and electrical properties of sputtered Ta2O5 films are studied by x-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, atomic force microscope, capacitance–voltage (C-V) and current–voltage (I-V) measurement techniques. The annealed Ta2O5 thin film at the temperature of 900 °C for 1 h possesses polycrystalline nature with β—phase orthorhombic crystal structure. The film deposited at 150 W and substrate temperature at room temperature has shown comparatively lower surface roughness, which depicts the energy, and mobility of adatoms greatly influenced by RF power and substrate temperature. With the increase in sputtering power, the oxide charge density (Qox) is found to increase. On the other hand, Qox is found to decrease with the increase in substrate temperature. The film deposited at RF power of 150 W and substrate temperature of 300 °C is found to be of high dielectric constant, low oxide and interface charge density, and lower leakage current.
Resonant Y-type soliton, X-type soliton and some novel hybrid interaction solutions to the (3+1)-dimensional nonlinear evolution equation for shallow-water waves
Authors: Wang Kang-Jia
Published: December 2023

This research aims to explore some novel solutions to the (3+1)-dimensional nonlinear evolution equation (NEE) for the shallow-water waves. The resonant Y-type soliton (YTS) and X-type soliton (XTS) solutions are derived by applying the novel resonant conditions on the N-soliton solutions(N-SSs) which are extracted via the Hirota bilinear approach. Additionally, some novel and interesting hybrid interaction solutions like the interaction between Y-type soliton and 1-soliton, interaction between Y-type soliton and 1-breather solution, interaction between the Y-type soliton and the soliton molecule on the (x, y)-plane, and interaction between the X-type soliton and 1-soliton are also ascertained. The dynamic attributes of the obtained solutions are described graphically to unveil their physical behaviors. The findings in this work can help us better apprehend the nonlinear dynamics of the considered equation.
Enhancing quantum discord in v-shaped plasmonic waveguides by quantum feedback
Authors: Zhao Hua-Wei , Li Gen , Zhang Guo-Feng
Published: December 2023

We investigate the impact of a symmetric quantum feedback control on the quantum discord of the X state in V-shaped plasmonic waveguides. Under this feedback, the quantum discord of the Werner state is enhanced from 0 to 0.38. This value even continues to rise after reducing the decay rate of the atoms. Furthermore, we get the operational mechanism of feedback control through the evolution of the matrix elements. It confines the initial 4 × 4 matrix into a 3 × 3 subspace. As a result, the weights of each ground state in the quantum state change, which suppresses the degradation of Bell state. Lastly, we propose a direction for suggesting an improved feedback Hamiltonian.
A first-principles investigation of excitation and emission processes of CsI(Tl) under near-UV radiation
Authors: Gao T J , Qin M J , Wang H D , Lu Jing-Bin , Tian F B
Published: December 2023

Based on the analyses of excitation paths in CsI(Tl) under near-UV light (

λ

min

= 220 nm), all possible excited states are modeled. The emission paths are revealed by the first-principles calculations performed for each excited state. Based on the analyses of band structure, density of states (DOS), and transition dipole moment (TDM), the theoretical range of central emission wavelength is proposed as 517 ∼ 538 nm for the Tl-center luminescence and 375 ∼ 405 nm for the intrinsic luminescence. This prediction agrees well with the experimental emission spectra, which have a peak at 514.2 nm and a shoulder at 410.6 nm. This method can be applied to CsI(Tl) under higher-energy radiation and other halide scintillator materials.
Hand and wrist complaints in dialysis nurses in Germany: a survey of prevalence, severity, and occupational associations
Authors: Ibenthal Elisabeth , Hinricher Niels , Nienhaus Albert , Backhaus Claus
Published: December 2023

Background and Objective

Occupations involving repetitive movements of the wrists, activities that require a lot of force, and hand-arm swinging are particularly likely to contribute to the development of hand and wrist complaints. The daily setup and dismantling of dialysis machines as part of the dialysis treatment process can strain the wrists and fingers of nurses. However, evidence regarding the relationship between the work activities of dialysis nurses and the incidence of hand and wrist complaints is limited. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and severity of hand and wrist complaints among dialysis nurses in Germany and to relate these to their work activities.

Methods

An online survey was created and sent to 836 dialysis centres in Germany. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used in an online survey to assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints in the hands and wrists. The Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) was used to assess symptom severity. Dialysis nurses rated the effort required to set up dialysis machines using the BORG-CR10 scale. The analysis was descriptive.

Results

A total of 122 dialysis nurses (18 male, 104 female; mean age 45 ± 12 years) participated in the survey, and 59% of them reported developing hands or wrist complaints in the last 12 months. According to BCTQ, the average severity of these complaints is 2.0 ± 0.8 (N = 72). The severity of symptoms increased significantly with the number of setups performed by a dialysis nurse per day (rs = 0.35, P = 0.003, N = 72). The nurses rated the effort required to set up the dialysis machines as 2.8 ± 1.8 on the BORG-CR10 scale (N = 101).

Discussion

The results of the online survey showed that dialysis nurses were more likely than the general population to experience hand and wrist complaints. The repetitive activities of the hands and wrists while setting up a dialysis machine are thought to be the cause.

Conclusions

Preventive measures are needed to reduce hand and wrist strain in dialysis nurses.
Relationship between cumulative exposure to occupational lifting throughout working life and risk of ischemic heart disease in men and women. The Copenhagen Aging and Midlife Biobank
Authors: Korshøj Mette , Møller Anne , Siersma Volkert , Lund Rikke , Hougaard Charlotte Ø , Mortensen Ole S , Allesøe Karen
Published: December 2023

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) causes mortality and morbidity. High levels of occupational physical activity (OPA) increases IHD risk, and occupational lifting (OL) is suggested as a detrimental OPA exposure. This study investigated the association between accumulated OL throughout working life, and risk for IHD, and potential sex and hypertension differences. Data from Copenhagen Ageing and Midlife Biobank linked to register-based information on incident IHD during 9 years follow-up in the Danish National Patient Registry were included. The outcome was the odds of IHD from baseline (2009–2011) to end of follow-up (2018), among participants without IHD at baseline. Accumulated OL was assessed by linking occupational codes to a Job Exposure Matrix, creating a measure in ton-years (lifting 1,000 kg/day/year). Multivariable logistic regression tested associations between level of accumulated OL and IHD, among the 6,606 included individuals (68% men). During follow-up, 7.3% men and 3.6% women were hospitalized with IHD. Among all participants, the odds for IHD were 47% (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.05–2.06) higher among those with ≥5 to <10 ton-years, 39% (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.06–1.83) higher among those with ≥10 to <30 ton-years, and 62% (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.18–2.22) higher among those with ≥30 ton-years, compared to no accumulated OL. However, these increased odds were in the same direction in the fully-adjusted model but statistically insignificant, ≥5 to <10 ton-years OR 1.28, 95% CI 0.88–1.88; ≥10 to <30 ton-years OR 1.20, 95% CI 0.85–1.69; and ≥30 ton-years OR 1.22, 95% CI 0.81–1.84. No statistically significant interactions, nor any associations, between OL and sex, or hypertension were seen.
The application of the mobile application for the assessment of cleaning workers’ exposure to cleaning products: a pilot study
Authors: Lee Sewon , Povey Andrew , van Tongeren Martie
Published: December 2023

Background

Cleaning product use has been associated with adverse respiratory health effects such as asthma in cleaning staff and healthcare workers. Research in health effects from cleaning products has largely depended upon collecting exposure information by questionnaires which has limitations such as recall bias and underestimation of exposure. The aim of this study was to develop a Cleaning and Hazardous Products Exposure Logging (CHaPEL) app with a barcode scanner and to test the feasibility of this app with university cleaners.

Methods

The CHaPEL app was developed to collect information on demographics, individual product information, and exposure information. It also included an ease-of-use survey. A pilot study with university cleaning workers was undertaken in which cleaning workers scanned each product after use and answered the survey. Respiratory hazards of cleaning substances in the scanned cleaning products were screened by safety data sheets, a Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship model and an asthmagen list established by an expert group in the US.

Results

Eighteen university cleaners participated in this study over a period of 5 weeks. In total, 77 survey responses and 6 cleaning products were collected and all reported that using the app was easy. The most frequently used product was a multi-surface cleaner followed by a disinfectant. Out of 14 substances in cleaning products, ethanolamine and Alkyl (C12-16) dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride were found as respiratory hazardous substances.

Conclusion

The CHaPEL app is a user-friendly immediate way to successfully collect exposure information using the barcodes of cleaning products. This tool could be useful for future epidemiological studies focused on exposure assessment with less interruption to the workers.
Temperature sensitivity of detrital photosynthesis
Authors: Wright Luka Seamus , Simpkins Taylor , Filbee-Dexter Karen , Wernberg Thomas
Published: December 2023

Background and Aims

Kelp forests are increasingly considered blue carbon habitats for ocean-based biological carbon dioxide removal, but knowledge gaps remain in our understanding of their carbon cycle. Of particular interest is the remineralization of detritus, which can remain photosynthetically active. Here, we study a widespread, thermotolerant kelp (Ecklonia radiata) to explore detrital photosynthesis as a mechanism underlying temperature and light as two key drivers of remineralization.

Methods

We used meta-analysis to constrain the thermal optimum (Topt) of E. radiata. Temperature and light were subsequently controlled over a 119-day ex situ decomposition experiment. Flow-through experimental tanks were kept in darkness at 15 °C or under a subcompensating maximal irradiance of 8 µmol photons m−2 s−1 at 15, 20 or 25 °C. Photosynthesis of laterals (analogues to leaves) was estimated using closed-chamber oxygen evolution in darkness and under a saturating irradiance of 420 µmol photons m−2 s−1.

Key Results

T opt of E. radiata is 18 °C across performance variables (photosynthesis, growth, abundance, size, mass and fertility), life stages (gametophyte and sporophyte) and populations. Our models predict that a temperature of >15 °C reduces the potential for E. radiata detritus to be photosynthetically viable, hence detrital Topt ≤ 15 °C. Detritus is viable under subcompensating irradiance, where it performs better than in darkness. Comparison of net and gross photosynthesis indicates that elevated temperature primarily decreases detrital photosynthesis, whereas darkness primarily increases detrital respiration compared with optimal experimental conditions, in which detrital photosynthesis can persist for ≥119 days.

Conclusions

T opt of kelp detritus is ≥3 °C colder than that of the intact plant. Given that E. radiata is one of the most temperature-tolerant kelps, this suggests that photosynthesis is generally more thermosensitive in the detrital phase, which partly explains the enhancing effect of temperature on remineralization. In contrast to darkness, even subcompensating irradiance maintains detrital viability, elucidating the accelerating effect of depth and its concomitant light reduction on remineralization to some extent. Detrital photosynthesis is a meaningful mechanism underlying at least two drivers of remineralization, even below the photoenvironment inhabited by the attached alga.
Two cases of dupilumab-responsive Kimura disease
Authors: Battesti Gilles , Jachiet Marie , Lepelletier Clémence , Petit Antoine , Vignon-Pennamen Marie-Dominique , Cassius Charles , de Masson Adèle , Battistella Maxime , Bagot Martine , Bouaziz Jean David , Mahévas Thibault
Published: December 2023

Kimura disease (KD) is a rare, chronic angiolymphoproliferative inflammatory disease appearing to be mostly restricted to the skin and soft tissue. Cutaneous involvement of KD includes head and/or neck nodules showing suggestive histological features, frequently associated with an atopic dermatitis-like or prurigo-like presentation. KD is challenging to treat, with high rate of recurrence using current therapeutic strategies. Evidence for involvement of a T-helper type 2 (Th2) immune response in KD pathogenesis has been found in previous studies. Consequently, this study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of dupilumab, a human monoclonal antibody that inhibits signalling of key Th2 cytokines, interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13, within a single-centre cohort of patients with cutaneous KD. Two adults with a diagnosis of refractory (failure of at least one treatment line) cutaneous-restricted KD based on clinical, biological, histological, molecular and imaging findings received dupilumab for KD, and showed dramatic response with a good safety profile.
Resolving heterogeneity in schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder through individualized structural covariance network analysis
Authors: Niu Lianjie , Fang Keke , Han Shaoqiang , Xu Chunmiao , Sun Xianfu
Published: December 2023

Disruptions in large-scale brain connectivity are hypothesized to contribute to psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. However, high inter-individual variation among patients with psychiatric disorders hinders achievement of unified findings. To this end, we adopted a newly proposed method to resolve heterogeneity of differential structural covariance network in schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. This method could infer individualized structural covariance aberrance by assessing the deviation from healthy controls. T1-weighted anatomical images of 114 patients with psychiatric disorders (schizophrenia: n = 37; bipolar I disorder: n = 37; attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: n = 37) and 110 healthy controls were analyzed to obtain individualized differential structural covariance network. Patients exhibited tremendous heterogeneity in profiles of individualized differential structural covariance network. Despite notable heterogeneity, patients with the same disorder shared altered edges at network level. Moreover, individualized differential structural covariance network uncovered two distinct psychiatric subtypes with opposite differences in structural covariance edges, that were otherwise obscured when patients were merged, compared with healthy controls. These results provide new insights into heterogeneity and have implications for the nosology in psychiatric disorders.
How Urgent is Urgent?—Statistical Analysis of Procedural Urgency in Provisional Measures at the International Court of Justice
Authors: Gapsa Miłosz
Published: December 2023

Urgency is a key element of provisional measures. In its substantive meaning, it is a conditio sine qua non for their grant. In the procedural sense, it signifies a swift way of processing the request by the Court. The manner in which the International Court of Justice manages those proceedings remains insufficiently explored. If the Court were to delay them, irreparable prejudice might have already occurred. To fill the gap in the literature, this article aims at elaborating on the management of interim relief proceedings. To this end, it employs methods of statistical analysis to assess the Court’s past practice. It argues that those proceedings lack predictability, based on an analysis of parameters such as minimum, maximum, mean, standard deviation, Pearson correlation coefficient, normal distribution (Gaussian), skewness coefficient, coefficient of variation and kurtosis.
Left ventricular myocardial work improves in response to treatment and is associated with survival among patients with light chain cardiac amyloidosis
Authors: Briasoulis Alexandros , Bampatsias Dimitrios , Petropoulos Ioannis , Rempakos Athanasios , Patras Raphael , Theodorakakou Foteini , Makris Nikolaos , Dimopoulos Meletios Athanasios , Stamatelopoulos Kimon , Kastritis Efstathios
Published: December 2023

Aims

Complete haematologic response to treatment for light chain cardiac amyloidosis (AL-CA) may lead to improvement of myocardial function and better outcomes. We sought to evaluate the effect of response to treatment for AL-CA on echocardiographic indices of myocardial deformation and work and their prognostic significance.

Methods and results

Sixty-one patients treated for AL were enrolled and underwent echocardiographic assessment at baseline and at 1 year. Patients were stratified according to haematologic response as complete or not complete responders. A significant reduction in median N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) (2771–1486 pg/mL; P < 0.001) and posterior wall thickness (13–12 mm; P = 0.002) and an increase in global work index (GWI) (1115–1356 mmHg%; P = 0.018) was observed at 1 year. Patients with complete response (CR) had a more pronounced decrease in intraventricular septum thickness (14.2–12.0 mm; P = 0.006), improved global longitudinal strain (GLS) (−11.6 to −13.1%; P for interaction = 0.045), increased global constructive work (1245–1436 mmHg%; P = 0.008), and GWI (926–1250 mmHg%, P = 0.002) compared with non-CR. Furthermore, deltaGLS (ρspearman = 0.35; P < 0.001) and deltaGWI (ρspearman = −0.32; P = 0.02) correlated with delta NT-proBNP. Importantly, patients with GLS and GWI response had a better prognosis (log-rank P = 0.048 and log-rank P = 0.007, respectively). After adjustment for Mayo stage, gender, and response status, deltaGLS [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.404, P = 0.046 per 1% increase] and deltaGWI (HR = 0.996, P = 0.042 per 1mmHg% increase) were independent predictors of survival.

Conclusion

Complete haematologic response to treatment is associated with improved left ventricular myocardial work indices, and their change is associated with improved survival in AL-CA.
Assessment of extra-coronary peripheral arteriopathy in spontaneous coronary dissection: state of the art in non-invasive imaging techniques and future perspectives
Authors: Androulakis Emmanuel , Kourek Christos , Vrettos Apostolos , Kontopodis Nikolaos , Lioudaki Eirini , Prasinou Maria , Xanthopoulos Andreas , Antonopoulos Alexios , Briasoulis Alexandros , Mohiaddin Raad
Published: December 2023

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) has been recognized as an important cause of acute coronary syndrome in women ≤ 50 years old, and up to 43% of pregnancy-associated myocardial infarction. SCAD has a strong association with extra-coronary arteriopathies, including either more common entities such as dissections, intracranial or other aneurysms, and extra-coronary and coronary arterial tortuosity or less common inherited vascular disorders such as Ehlers–Danlos syndrome, Marfan syndrome, and Loeys–Dietz syndrome, leading to the conclusion that systemic arterial disorders may underlie SCAD. Fibromuscular dysplasia is the most common extra-coronary vascular abnormality identified among these patients, also sharing a common genetic variant with SCAD. The American Heart Association, in a scientific statement regarding the management of SCAD, recommends that patients with SCAD should undergo additional evaluation with imaging techniques including either computed tomography angiography (CTA) or magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). MRA has been shown to have sufficient diagnostic accuracy in identifying extra-coronary arterial abnormalities, almost equal to CTA and conventional angiography. The aim of this review is to appraise the most recent important evidence of extra-coronary arteriopathy in the setting of SCAD and to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of various non-invasive imaging methods for screening of extra-coronary arteriopathies in patients with SCAD.
Adaptive colonization across a parasitism–mutualism gradient
Authors: Mestre Alexandre , Butlin Roger K , Hortal Joaquín , Rafajlović Marina
Published: December 2023

Adaptive colonization is a process wherein a colonizing population exhibits an adaptive change in response to a novel environment, which may be critical to its establishment. To date, theoretical models of adaptive colonization have been based on single-species introductions. However, given their pervasiveness, symbionts will frequently be co-introduced with their hosts to novel areas. We present an individual-based model to investigate adaptive colonization by hosts and their symbionts across a parasite–mutualist continuum. The host must adapt in order to establish itself in the novel habitat, and the symbiont must adapt to track evolutionary change in the host. First, we classify the qualitative shifts in the outcome that can potentially be driven by non-neutral effects of the symbiont–host interaction into three main types: parasite-driven co-extinction, parasite release, and mutualistic facilitation. Second, we provide a detailed description of a specific example for each type of shift. Third, we disentangle how the interplay between symbiont transmissibility, host migration, and selection strength determines: (a) which type of shift is more likely to occur and (b) the size of the interaction effects necessary to produce it. Overall, we demonstrate the crucial role of host and symbiont dispersal scales in shaping the impacts of parasitism and mutualism on adaptive colonization.
POMC Neuron BBSome Regulation of Body Weight is Independent of its Ciliary Function
Authors: Guo Deng-Fu , Williams Paul A , Laule Connor , Seaby Charles , Zhang Qihong , Sheffield Val C , Rahmouni Kamal
Published: December 2023

The BBSome, a complex of several Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) proteins including BBS1, has emerged as a critical regulator of energy homeostasis. Although the BBSome is best known for its involvement in cilia trafficking, through a process that involve BBS3, it also regulates the localization of cell membrane receptors underlying metabolic regulation. Here, we show that inducible Bbs1 gene deletion selectively in proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons cause a gradual increase in body weight, which was associated with higher fat mass. In contrast, inducible deletion of Bbs3 gene in POMC neurons failed to affect body weight and adiposity. Interestingly, loss of BBS1 in POMC neurons led to glucose intolerance and insulin insensitivity, whereas BBS3 deficiency in these neurons is associated with slight impairment in glucose handling, but normal insulin sensitivity. BBS1 deficiency altered the plasma membrane localization of serotonin 5-HT2C receptor (5-HT2CR) and ciliary trafficking of neuropeptide Y2 receptor (NPY2R).In contrast, BBS3 deficiency, which disrupted the ciliary localization of the BBSome, did not interfere with plasma membrane expression of 5-HT2CR, but reduced the trafficking of NPY2R to cilia. We also show that deficiency in BBS1, but not BBS3, alters mitochondria dynamics and decreased total and phosphorylated levels of dynamin-like protein 1 (DRP1) protein. Importantly, rescuing DRP1 activity restored mitochondria dynamics and localization of 5-HT2CR and NPY2R in BBS1-deficient cells. The contrasting effects on energy and glucose homeostasis evoked by POMC neuron deletion of BBS1 versus BBS3 indicate that BBSome regulation of metabolism is not related to its ciliary function in these neurons.